Things to do in Montréal for self travelers

Embark on a self-paced exploration of Montreal's eclectic Mile End and Outremont neighborhoods with this captivating self-guided audio tour. Perfect for first-time visitors and locals alike, this tour invites the culturally curious and architecture aficionados to immerse themselves in a district alive with rich history and vibrant artistry. Starting off at the historic Rialto Theatre, you'll traipse through the charming streets and behold landmarks steeped in storytelling, with the verdant Saint-Viateur Park awaiting at your journey's end. Along the way, the tour unfolds along a curated route ushering you from the sumptuous scents of the famous St-Viateur Bagel shop, past an array of spirited murals by esteemed artists, to architectural marvels like the Mordecai-Richler Library and the Church of St. Michael and St. Anthony. A highlight for many includes the Drawn & Quarterly, a nucleus for graphic novelists. The tour ensures a sensory experience; listen to the gentle hum of local life as you're introduced to Montreal's legendary bagels, peek at the city's literary giant Mordecai Richler's namesake library, and soak in the tapestry of art, faith, and community that intertwines throughout these storied streets. Whether you're capturing the essence of Montreal's fire station heritage or standing in awe of sacred architectural wonders, this journey promises to leave vivid imprints of the city's dynamic character.

Embark on an audio exploration of Montreal's downtown district, a perfect adventure for urban explorers and culture enthusiasts. This self-guided audio tour leads listeners through the heart of the city's vibrant streets and underground passages, offering deep dives into the rich tapestry of Montreal's history and modern allure. Starting at the lively Place des Arts, the tour unfolds a route that snakes its way through the bustling downtown area, capturing the essence of Montreal's urban life. Travelers will traverse from the artistic hub of Place des Arts to the historic Phillips Square, tracing a path laden with architectural wonders, cultural landmarks, and bustling urban spaces. Along the way, participants will encounter the grandeur of Les Cours Mont-Royal, the towering 1000 de La Gauchetière, and the elegant 1250 René-Lévesque, each with its own story to tell. The tour culminates at Phillips Square, leaving travelers amidst a contemporary scene steeped in history. Memorable experiences include the resonance of Montreal's sporting spirit at the Bell Centre, the architectural splendor of St. George’s Anglican Church, and the astonishing sights of Montreal Underground City. Not to be missed are the Palais des congrès de Montréal's glass façades and the minimalist beauty of the Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal. This tour is a unique opportunity to discover the city's landmarks at your own pace, guided by the stories and insights provided at each intriguing stop.

As you explore the Musée des Hospitalières, you'll be transported back in time to the 17th century, discovering the lives of the Hospitaller sisters who dedicated their lives to caring for the sick and wounded. Admire the exquisite collection of artifacts, religious art, and medical instruments, which highlight the evolution of healthcare practices and the daily routines of the sisters. Don't miss the chance to step inside the reconstructed pharmacy, filled with facts about the world of traditional herbal remedies and apothecary practices. The Musée des Hospitalières offers a unique and insightful experience that intertwines healthcare history, spirituality, and the resilience of those who dedicated themselves to the service of others.

A fixture in the heart of the city for over 100 years, the McCord Stewart Museum sheds light on life in Montreal, both past and present. It bears witness to the history, vitality, creativity and diversity of the communities that make up the city. In keeping with its commitment to decolonization and sustainable development, it creates exhibitions and educational, cultural and community-engagement activities that look at social history and contemporary issues through a critical and inclusive lens. The Museum’s Archives, Documentary Art, Dress, Fashion and Textiles, Indigenous Cultures, Material Culture and Photography collections, containing 2.5 million images, objects, documents and works of art, position it as the custodian of a remarkable historical heritage and one of North America’s leading museums. On Wednesday evenings starting at 5 p.m., the museum offers free admission to the permanent exhibition and $10 admission to temporary exhibitions.

Visit the Canadian Railway Museum or Exporail, located near Montreal, to see the preserved train engines and bogies. Discover over 400 artifacts and climb aboard various vehicles, from streetcars to steam locomotives. Learn about the lives of railway workers, including teachers in school cars and employees in cabooses. Also, visit the locomotive simulator or miniature train, and stop by the store before you leave.

With this ticket to the Musée des Hospitalières and a self-guided audio walk of the Mile End and Outremont neighborhoods, you'll explore Montreal's eclectic soul. The tour begins at the Musée des Hospitalières, where you'll be transported back in time to the 17th century, discovering the lives of the Hospitaller sisters who dedicated their lives to caring for the sick and wounded. (!) Note that this tour includes an entrance ticket available in the app, but the audio guide inside the museum is not provided. After you finish exploring the museum, set off on a fascinating stroll through Montreal's bohemian neighborhoods. Along the way, the tour unfolds along a curated route ushering you from the verdant Mount Royal Park, past an array of architectural marvels like the Church of St. Michael and St. Anthony, spirited murals by esteemed artists, to sumptuous scents of the famous St-Viateur Bagel shop, and more. Highlights include the Drawn & Quarterly, a nucleus for graphic novelists, and the city's literary giant Mordecai Richler's namesake library. The tour ensures a sensory experience; listen to the gentle hum of local life as you're introduced to Montreal's tapestry of art, faith, and community that intertwines throughout these storied streets.

Visit a collection of rooms that change your perspective, installations that engage your mind, and images that challenge what you see. Exhibits teach that things are not always as they appear, especially in the Museum of Illusions.