Table Of Contents

1. Montreal Central Station
2. Dorchester Square
3. Lights on Peel
4. Saint-Catherine Street
5. Rendez-Vous Corner
6. Guardians of Odyssée
7. Legend of the Bears
8. McGill College Avenue
9. Centre Eaton de Montréal
10. Hotel Birks Montreal
11. Phillips Square
12. Place des Festivals
13. Luminotherapie
14. Place des Arts
15. Les Jardins d'Hiver
16. Parterre du Quartier des spectacles

Montreal Central Station

Start your tour inside Montreal Central Station. This is the most convenient access point to the downtown area from anywhere in Montreal. Nearly 11 million rail passengers use the station every year, making it the second-busiest train station in Canada. The station is decorated with huge pink stars and illuminated lights during the Christmas season. As we near Christmas day, they even set up a giant Christmas tree in the centre of the station. I arrived via Central station and there was nothing more magical to welcome me to the city! What a fantastical way to start your trip.

Dorchester Square

From Central Station, make your way north to Peel Street. Peel Street runs through Montreal’s most popular shopping district. The street is lined by former mansions converted into McGill University buildings. Making it one of the most picturesque streets but made even more spectacular at Christmas. On the edge of Peel Street and Boulevard René-Lévesque is Dorchester Square. As soon as the first snow falls on Montreal, this square is transformed into a Winter Wonderland. Sparkling Christmas lights don the trees around the park and the lamp posts are given sparkling and enchanting flare. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dave Dialect Photography (@davedialect)

The park is set around some of the most romantic buildings in the city, all decorated for Christmas. The imposing Sun Life Building stands on the east side of the park. Its huge columns are encircled with Christmas lights and topped with one of the largest ornament garlands in the entire city. The roof of the Sun Life Building is also illuminated with different colours throughout the year. And at Christmas time is often seen illuminated with red and green colours.

Lights on Peel

Continue walking north along Peel street until you reach Peel and Sherbrooke Street. At this intersection, hand-crafted artifacts from the local Indigenous population of Montreal were discovered. Before there ever was a ‘Montreal,’ there was Tiohtià:ke. Tiohtià:ke is the name given to the area by the indigenous Kanien’kehá:ka clan who lived here for thousands of years. An illuminated installation called ‘Lights on Peel‘ can be found here during the wintertime. The lights aim to commemorate the story of Tiohtià:ke. The installation was designed by artist Kaiento:ton and portrays three of the Rotiononhsión:ni clan’s symbolic animals: the turtle, the wolf and the bear. You can also scan the QR codes found on the poles which display the lights to get more information on First Nations’ history.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Montréal centre-ville (@montrealcentreville)

Saint-Catherine Street

Walk west along Sherbrooke Street and then north down Rue de la Montagne towards Saint-Catherine Street. Saint-Catherine Street is the main street in the Montreal business district. It is considered the backbone of Downtown Montreal. There are nine metro stations along Sainte-Catherine that prove just how large important this part of town is. There is also an enormous Underground Pedestrian Network that is essential during those brutally cold winter days.

But during the winter, Saint-Catherine Street is a hub of Christmas activity. All the lampposts are hung with huge blue snowflake lights that brighten up the street. Not only are all the high-end shop’s windows decorated for Christmas, but the street itself is also home to some incredible installations.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MTL / tourism & foods (@mtl_foods)

Rendez-Vous Corner

Between Rue De la Montagne and Drummond is Rendez-Vous Corner. At the corner, you’ll find a huge lighted arch that is perfect for snapping those picturesque Christmas photos! Complete with bright pink Christmas trees in the background.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Audrée Bellehumeur (@audreebellehumeur)

Guardians of Odyssée

Just to the east along Saint-Catherine, between Drummond and Peel, you can find the great Guardians of Odyssée! The Guardians are huge inflatable nutcrackers who watch over Montrealers and visitors during the holiday season. Their smile is their greatest weapon, and legend has it that they can break the hardest of diamonds with a snap of their jaws.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tourisme Montréal (@montreal)

Legend of the Bears

At the Metcalf intersection, you will see the illuminated images of giants bears framing the street. This installation is called the ‘Legend of the Bears‘ and is based on an indigenous legend. It is said that if you see a bear in your dream, it means that good look is coming your way. So make a point of walking by to catch all the luck you can!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Un Végétalien à Montréal (@unvegetalienamontreal)

McGill College Avenue

Further east, you can make a stop at the entrance to McGill College Avenue. The street was first laid out in 1857. But in 1983, it was greatly widened to create this now incredibly scenic roadway. The trees along either side of the avenue and the centre lane are wrapped in twinkle lights at Christmas time. Casting the most magical glow onto the road, leading up to the hillside of Mont-Royal, silhouetted just up ahead.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MileCarréDoré (@goldenmontreal)

Centre Eaton de Montréal

A great way to warm up is to stop inside the Centre Eaton de Montréal. This is one of Montreal’s largest shopping malls, with over 45,000 square metres of shops inside. At Christmas, the mall installs an enormous Christmas tree in the centre. It rises up above the three floors that surround it. The Christmas is hung with these huge digital frames displaying images of winter scenes all around Montreal.

Hotel Birks Montreal

At the corner of Saint-Catherine Street and Union, make a short detour towards the old Hotel Birks Montreal entrance. In 1840 Canadian entrepreneur, Henry Birks founded a jewelry company here in Montreal. He named it ‘Birks‘ and, in 1907, opened their magnificent flagship store in this very building. The shop spread out over 18,000 square feet and was complete with dazzling ornate architecture and modern conveniences. Eventually, the shop closed, but in 2018, the building was renovated to transform it into a high-end, historic hotel. Every year, the hotel goes all out for Christmas with lavish decorations pouring off the entrance into their hotel. This fantastical awning makes for an amazing photo spot underneath all that lush greenery and shining Christmas baubles.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by David (@david.major.lapierre)

Phillips Square

Back on Saint-Catherine Street, you can find Phillips Square. Phillips Square was named for Thomas Phillips, a building contractor and city councillor. Phillips died in 1842 and the land he once owned was donated to the city to create a public square in his honour. In the centre of the square stands a large statue of Thomas Phillips himself. The trees around the statue are all lit up with Christmas lights. And when the park has a layer of freshly fallen snow upon it, it is truly a spectacular scene.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MTL BEAST (@mtl.beast)

Place des Festivals

A short walk east brings you to the Place des Festivals. Place des Festivals is a large public space created inside the Quartier des Spectacles. Quartier des Spectacles is Montreal’s arts and entertainment district. Montreal is home to over 100 different festivals and public events! As more and more people began to visit Montreal for these wonderful events, there became more need to build areas to host these outdoor events.

The Place des Festivals features a water fountain with 235 in-ground jets, four light towers, two glass-encased restaurants, a grassy slope and granite walkways. But during the winter, the square is transformed into a winter wonderland. Complete with Christmas trees lighting up the Great Montreal Christmas Market. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JoanLo (@vegajo12)

Luminotherapie

Also found inside the Quartier des Spectacles is Luminotherapie. Luminotherapie is now celebrating its 12th year, lighting up the Quartier des Spectacles during the winter season. This event features interactive art installations that are focused on illuminations. Places des Festivals is home to two amazing installations.

In the centre of the square, you’ll find ‘Echoes‘ by Mathias Gmachl. Echoes feature a giant metallic whale light with a rainbow of colours from inside. The colours inside the whale symbolize the planet’s flora and fauna. The whale makes gentle, melodic noises from afar. But if you get too close, it will make a loud noise to warn you that you are getting too close. A message about the invasive ways people are invading the natural world.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Marc Cluchier (@never_happy_man)

Towards Maisonneuve Boulevard, you can find ‘Impluse,’ a series of oversized seesaws. Each one glows and makes ambiant sounds. You can hop on and the more they move, the more intensive the noises will get.

Place des Arts

Next door to the Place des Festivals is the Place des Arts. Place des Arts is a major performing arts centre and the largest cultural and artistic complex in Canada. The centre of the plaza plays home to the ‘Iceburg‘ installation. Iceberg consists of a series of illuminated metal arches. When you walk through you’ll notice that each of them makes a particular sound. Sounds mimic the noise icebergs make when they crack as water seeps into their crevasses. The sounds echoing around you.

Les Jardins d’Hiver

Also located inside the Places des Arts is ‘Les Jardins d’Hiver.’ This little treasure takes visitors on a magical walk through a Christmas garden trail. It leads guests through a maze of Christmas trees featuring cozy little cottages displaying enchanting dioramas.

Parterre du Quartier des spectacles

Parterre du Quartier des spectacles on the orner of Rue Saint-Urbain and Rue de Montigny features a wonderful installation called ‘Entre les Rangs‘ by Kanva. The huge scene represents a field of wheat. The illuminated installation is made up of thousands of flexible stems topped with these little white reflectors. Each one responds to the nearby activity, which creates constantly shifting animation as if the wheat is blowing in the wind from different directions. It is the most peaceful and mesmerizing installation and the perfect place to end our tour.

I hope you enjoyed this magical walking tour of Downtown Montreal’s most incredible Christmas lights. They truly light up the city and cast an enchanting glow over the snow-covered streets! If you enjoyed this tour, check out our guide of Montreal’s Old Town Christmas Lights. Let me know the comments where your favourite Christmas light display can be found in your hometown!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post The Ultimate Tour of Downtown Montreal’s Best Christmas Light Displays first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Although you can simply wander the city to discover your own favourite displays, I’ve put together a little walking tour of all the best places to check out in Old Montreal. This self-guided walking tour will take you past some of the most important historical buildings in Old Montreal. So we’ve added in some interesting information about this bygone part of the city. Come with us now on our Christmas Lights Trail of Old Montreal!

McGill Street

At the corner of Victoria Square is where McGill Streets begins and heads down into the Old Town of Montreal. McGill Street is famously known as “the link between the strategic sectors of the Old Port, Old Montreal, and the Quartier international.” It is one of the most historical and, therefore, illustrious streets in Montreal. You can find such important buildings as the Canadian National Railway Company, Canadian Coast Guard, Canada Border Services Agency and a slew of popular restaurants all along this stretch of road.

During the winter season, the streets and individual buildings are all lit up for the holidays. The street is lined with these fantastic illuminated trees with a giant ball of lights bursting from the top! Enormous wreaths hang inside windows. And you can almost always see some of the most fanciful garlands made from real fir trees suspended from the doorways. The intoxicating smell drifts into your nose as you explore.

Maison Pepin

Continue along McGill Street until you reach Saint-Paul Street West. Turn left along the street until you read the famous Maison Pepin. During the wintertime, the alleyway entrance into Maison Pepin’s is transformed into their “Marché de Noël.” The old brick alley looks like something out of Harry Potter! As if you stepped into Diagon Alley when it’s all decorated for Christmas. Wreaths and Christmas tree hangs along the walls and when freshly fallen snow graces you with its presence the entire place is like a painting. Every year the team that decorated the alley brings a new element of wonder and this year their use of dried flowers is absolutely enchanting. And the entire scene is lit with a series of lights above casting down an ethereal glow on the alley.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by DreaminChristmas (@dreaminchristmas)

Miracle on Place d’Youville

Continue shortly down Saint-Paul Street West and take a short detour towards Rue Saint Pierre to the corner of Place d’Youville. Hidden away, inside the Parlement Bar is an absolute Christmas Wonderland. Miracle Bar is like Christmas turned up to eleven. From the floor to the ceiling, Christmas wrapping paper covers the entirety of the space. Lights twinkle from every corner, hundreds of stockings hang from the top, and of course, Christmas music blares throughout the bar. It has the warmest, most friendly atmosphere, like walking into a warm hug. When I was in town, I was alone for a portion of the trip, and I didn’t feel alone in here for a second. Everyone was in the spirit of Christmas and happy to make new friends.

There are a myriad of Christmas-themed drinks on offer, as well as beer, cider and yes, even non-alcoholic drinks as well! They all come in a delightful array of Christmas drinkware, and if you love what you’re served in, you can even buy a mug or cup to bring home!

Place Royal

Continue along old Place d’Youville to Place Royal. Place Royale has always been an important meeting place for the people of Montreal. In the early 19th century, this was where you could have found the old marketplace. Today, the square is dominated by the Old Customs House. This is an archaeological site, which is a part of the Pointe-à-Callière museum. At Christmas time, the square is filled with a series of real Christmas trees. A large illuminated tree is positioned in the centre, with a life-sized sleigh nearby for fantastic photo ops!

Rue Saint Paul

Walking up Place Royal Street towards Saint Paul street, you can continue along this long road. Saint-Laurent Boulevard divides the street where Saint Paul Street becomes Rue Saint Paul. This is because Saint-Laurent Boulevard was once the dividing line between the English part of town and the French quarter. Saint-Paul is Montreal’s oldest street and for many years served as its main thoroughfare. It was established in 1672 and named after Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve, founder of Montreal. His residence was located on this street and built-in 1650. Rue Saint-Paul follows the path of the old fort which once bordered the area.

During Christmas, Saint-Paul street is perhaps the most enchanting. Massive Christmas light installations are put up on either side of the street. Creating almost a halo of light above the road. The stores on either side of the street are filled to bursting with Christmas spirit. It seems like every boutique has its own unique approach to Christmas decor and peeking your head inside is a wonderful way to warm up.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Anthony Maio (@salvanito)

Rue Saint Vincent / Rue Saint Anne

As we continue towards Place Jacques-Cartier, make a quick detour up Rue Saint Vincent. The street was originally built on the land owned by Jean-Vincent Philippe de Hautmesnil. Jean-Vincent was a businessman and wealthy fur trader. His uncle, the Sulpician Gabriel Souart, was the first parish priest of Montreal. The street gets its name from the patron saint of Jean-Vincent Philippe de Hautmesnil.

Just a few feet along Rue Saint Vincent is the incredible alleyway Rue Saint Anne. This hidden passageway is framed by a series of old wooden branches in platers covered in twinkle lights. And as you enter the alley, you pass under a monumental archway also wrapped in lights. Creating this tunnel all aglow!

Place Jacques-Cartier

At the end of the Rue Saint-Vincent, you’ll pop out right in the middle of Place Jacques-Cartier. The square was originally built in 1723 as the royal gardens belonging to the Château Vaudreuil. The Château Vaudreuil was made for Philippe de Rigaud, Marquis de Vaudreuil but was burned down in 1803. After the destruction, the city transformed the space into a public square, known then as New Market Place.

In 1809, a large column was installed and named ‘Nelson’s Column.’ But in 1847, it was renamed in honour of Jacques Cartier, the explorer who claimed Canada for France in 1535. Today it stands as the oldest public monument in Montreal. During the Christmas season, the street is lined with lighted trees. At the top of the square is a huge light art installation. Made in the shape of large bare trees with branches resembling reindeer antlers.

Bonsecours Market

Head back down to the Rue Saint Paul-East and continue walking until you reach the Bonsecours Market. Bonsecours Market is a two-story domed public market first built in 1844. And for more than 100 years, it was the main public market in Montreal. Today, it’s home to boutique shops popular with tourists. During the Christmas season, the building’s large Doric columns are covered in Christmas lights. Highlighting the beautiful architecture of the old building.

Rue de la Commune

Take a short walk towards the water, out to Rue de la Commune. Rue de la Commune follows the original shore of the Saint Lawrence River. The buildings along the north side of the road are former commercial buildings.

From this point, you have a beautiful view along the tree line Rue de la Commune and the accompanying Christmas lights. You can also see the beautiful Old Port to the north and towering La Grande Roue de Montréal Ferris Wheel, which lights up the sky.

View of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel

After getting a good look at the Port, head back up towards Rue Notre Dame Est. Make a stop at the top of the street, where you have an incredible view of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel. The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel is one of the oldest churches in Montreal. Built in 1771 over the ruins of an earlier chapel. The church is always decorated and lit up for Christmas. With the Ferris wheel spinning overhead, this spot makes for the perfect photo opportunity.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ayman | أيمن | Montreal (@adamoconsequat)

Vauquelin Place

Looping back towards where we started, walk along Rue Notre Dame Est to Vauquelin Place beside the old Montreal City Hall. The small square is home to the old Montreal Great Christmas tree! It is one of the most instagrammable spots in the city during the Christmas season. The square is named after captain Vauquelin who was a distinguished French naval office. A statue of the captain still dominates the square behind the fountain where the Christmas tree is located.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Le Vieux-Montréal (@levieuxmontreal)

Montreal Courthouse

Further down the street, you’ll come up the Montreal Courthouse. The brutalist style of architecture really stands out among the old town neo-gothic buildings. In front of the courthouse every year, they put up a large white illuminated Christmas tree. While it is just one lone Christmas tree, the way the light reflects off the glass windows of the building is really spectacular.

Places d’Armes

At the intersection of Rue Notre Dame-West and St. Sulpice Street, we find the Places d’Armes. Place d’Armes is a large public square centred around some of the most famous buildings in the city. This includes the great Notre-Dame Basilica, Saint-Sulpice Seminary, New York Life Building, Aldred Building and Bank of Montreal head office.

Originally the public square was called ‘Place de la Fabrique‘ when it was first developed in 1693, at the request of the Sulpicians. It was later renamed Place d’Armes in 1721 when it became the stage for various military events. From 1781 to 1813, it was used as a hay and wood market. Eventually, in 1836 it was redeveloped as a Victorian garden. For more than a hundred years, the square fell out of favour and eventually fell into disrepair. It wasn’t until 2009 that the city decided to renovate it at a whopping cost of $15.5 million!

During the holiday season, the square is one of the most popular places to come to see the Christmas lights. Massive illuminated stars are set up all around the square. They look like shooting stars that have fallen to earth. As you stand there the stars change colour and transform the look of the square. Just across from the square, the Banque Nationale also features a large window display on their first floor. The trio of Christmas trees and blue twinkling lights delight all the visitors passing by.

Parc Saint-Jean

Continuing along Rue Notre Dame-West, you’ll see some different lighting designs dedicated to this area of town. Along this street, the lampposts are hung with sprays of illuminated tree branches and large brightly glowing snowflakes twinkle and shine.

At the intersection of Rue Notre Dame-West and Rue Saint-Jean is a small parkette named Parc Saint-Jean. This park is decorated with the most delightful Christmas lights. It features a large illuminated arch that makes for one of the best Instagram spots in the town. And best of all, this park is pretty hidden away and usually a little very peaceful. The rest of the park is dotted with giant twinkling snowflakes, randomly dispersed all over the grounds.

This brings us to the end of our tour of Montreal Old Town’s Christmas Lights. If you are interested in continuing your tour of Montreal Christmas Lights, head on over to our blog post on Downtown Montreal’s Best Christmas Lights! Let me know in the comments where your favourite displays are in Montreal or what you’re most looking forward to seeing.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post The Ultimate Self Guided Tour of Old Montreal’s Best Christmas Lights first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Tips for Surviving Winters in Montreal
2. Do You Need to Speak French?
3. Map of the Walking Tour
4. Christmas Light of Old Montreal
5. Old Port Skating Rink
6. Miracle Christmas Bar
7. Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site
8. Marché Place Jacques-Cartier
9. Noël Éternel
10. Notre-Dame Basilica Aura
11. Le Petit Dep
12. Centaur Theatre
13. Cité Mémoire
14. Village de Noël de Montréal
15. Luminothérapie
16. The Nutcracker
17. The Jardins d'Hiver
18. Jean-Talon Christmas Market
19. Montreal Christmas Village
20. Noël dans le Parc
21. Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
22. Juliette et Chocolate
23. Le Darling

Tips for Surviving Winters in Montreal

Montreal is COLD. And I’m saying that as a Canadian. There is something about that Montreal winter that hits different. Perhaps it’s the wind, or maybe it’s the humidity off the river (that’s right, there is even humidity in the winter). Whatever the reason, being prepared to face the winter weather is key to having a good time in Montreal. The average temperatures in December are around -4.7°C or 23.5°F. But don’t let the set temperature fool you. Let me introduce you to a very Canadian term, the “feels like.” We don’t just look at the thermometer. You need to check the “feels like” temperature. This takes into consideration the wind strength, humidity, as well as air temperature to give you an idea of what it actually feels like outside.

Most public spaces in Montreal require you to wear your mask at all times unless you are eating and drinking. So be sure to bring with you some high-quality masks. The current recommendation, especially during the winter, is to wear disposable KN95 masks. Luckily, these come in all different colours and even various patterns just like the cloth masks. So no need to simply settle for the boring medical blue and white. Hand sanitizer is always recommended to have on hand when you cannot wash your hands right away. Especially when getting on and off public transit.

Dress in Layers

One of the best pieces of advice for winter weather dressing is to wear layers. Then if the weather warms up or cools down, you can take off or put on more layers as needed. Some essential materials to look out for are merino wool, polar fleece and cashmere. These fabrics will help keep you warm but won’t make you sweat, as the materials are more breathable. You can find quality winter items on Amazon or in any of your favourite clothing shops (Uniqlo, J. Crew, Everlane). If you’re on a budget but really want to have something cozy, check out your local thrift shops. I have found dozens of fabulous 100% wool or cashmere sweater at thrift and vintage store. Usually for less than $20 when brand new they would cost over $200 and up! Plus vintage shopping always results in some sweet styles.

Winter Coat

If you already own a winter coat, you definitely need to bring that. But if you live in a warm place like California and think a light pea coat is a satisfactory winter coat, you’re going to have to rethink that a little. The two key elements that make up a quality coat for winters in Montreal. These are the length and the filling. You really want a long coat, at least something that goes down to your knees since you’re legs can get really cold.

The other element is to ensure the coat is down feathers filled. If you want to avoid animal products in your clothes you can also look for synthetic alternatives. Look for coats containing Primaloft, Omni-Heat, Thermolite, Thermacore, or Weathered fillings. A good coat with a hood is also a great way to ensure your head and neck are warm, as they are one of the primary ways heat escapes the body in the winter.

Boots

A good set of winter boots is also a key to ensuring those toes don’t get too cold. There is nothing worse than cold feet in the winter. It turns a lovely walking tour into a real pain. Since you can’t feasibly change from boots to fancier shoes as you go in and out of cafes and restaurants throughout the day, I suggest investing in a stylish boot. Luckily, so many brands make fashionable winter boots you’ll be happy to put on when you go outside.

Sorel is my go-to boot brand, but there are many other options from UGG, Dr. Martens, Blundstone and Columbia. If you don’t think you’ll have any use for a high-quality winter boot when you get home, try going to the used-clothing store and buying a pair second-hand. Just look for those brands listed as even an older boot will still be well made enough to last for ages.

Accessories

Even if you have a hood on your coat, you’d want to be sure to bring a large scarf or neck warmer to put around your neck. The wind can be brutal and blow your hood back, so you’ll be glad to have the scarf. I also bring a few different hats with me as it feels like a fun way to change up my outfit when I’m travelling in the winter.

Warm gloves are essential; you won’t get away with just putting your hands in your pocket. Trust me, I ran into some travellers from Spain who were otherwise dressed perfectly but missing their gloves, and by the end of our walking tour, their hands were freezing. If you use your phone to take pictures, you’ll want to get a pair of gloves with touch screen capabilities. Even taking your hand out of your gloves for a few minutes to take some pictures can really cool you down, especially at night. 

If you are terrified of the cold, I suggest investing in a set of hand warmers. These are fantastic to use throughout the day when the weather really dips down low. One of my favourite options is these OCOOPA Rechargeable Hand Warmers. They are a bit of an investment, but if you live in a cold-weather climate, you can easily use them throughout the year as well. And maybe this trip is the push you need to buy them. Plus they also double as a phone charger as well! If you just need something for the length of your vacation, you can also buy a pack of disposable hand warmers. These last up to 7-hours and easily fit inside your pocket to keep those hands nice and warm.

Long Johns

To keep your legs warm, you’ll want to bring along a pair of warm long johns. These can easily fit underneath your jeans or pants, so they won’t really change the look of your outfit. Fleece Lined thermals as the best thing to get to keep you warm all day long. If you can afford a pair of cashmere thermals, you’ll be overjoyed to find how utterly cozy you’ll feel.

But the cold weather and chance of precipitation mean you’re very likely to see snow when you arrive. The falling snow is like free Christmas decorations cast upon the city. So instead of complaining about it, just dress for success!

Do You Need to Speak French?

Although French is the official language in Montreal, you absolutely can visit the city without speaking any French at all. The signage might worry you at first since it is all in French (by law). But almost everyone in the city speaks English. In fact, many people live and work here who barely can speak fluent French themselves. Unlike Quebec City, which is primarily French-speaking, 57.4% of the population can speak both English and French. That being said, it is always a good idea to learn a bit of French to use when visiting. Below are some key phrases to know if you want to try and speak a bit of the local language.

Hello: Bonjour 
Goodbye: Au revoir
Thanks: Merci 
You’re welcome: De rien 
Please: S’il vous plaît
How are you?: Comment allez-vous?
how are you?: ca va? 
Yes: Oui
No:  Non
Okay: D’accord
I don’t speak French: Je ne parle pas français
Corner Store: Dépanneur (you’ll see this everywhere, so it’s good to know what it means)
Sorry: désolé (the most Canadian word to learn)

Map of the Walking Tour

Christmas Light of Old Montreal

There is nothing better than watching the snowfall while wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal. The buildings that pop up throughout the old town date back as far as the 17th century. They are some of the most interesting and eye-catching buildings anywhere in the city. You absolutely cannot visit Montreal without making a trip to visit the old town and honestly seeing it at Christmas is just that much more special!

At Christmas time, the entire neighbourhood is decorated with fantastical Christmas lights and illuminated installations. Different streets have their own particular themes, like snowflakes, branches, stars and twinkling ornaments. Add to that the multitude of incredible Christmas window displays which peek out of the shop fronts, and you are left with one of the most magical experiences in Montreal!

Although my advice is simply to let yourself wander around the historic centre if you want to check off certain areas the street below are the best places to visit if you’re looking to see all the Christmas magic.

• McGill Street below Notre Dame Street
• Marche Bonsecour
• Saint Paul Street
• St. Sulpice Street
• Rue Saint-Vincent
• Place Jacque Cartier
• Rue de la Commune (along the riverside)
• Place Royal

Old Port Skating Rink

Located along the St. Laurence River, you’ll find the beautiful Old Port of Montreal. The Port was initially built in 1611 and used by the French fur traders used it as a trading post. Today, the modern riverside is filled with museums and tourist attractions. One of the newest of these attractions is the Grande roue de Montréal or Montreal Ferris Wheel. It is now the tallest Ferris wheel in Canada and looks out over the entirety of the city. From old town you can almost always see it peaking out over the buildings.

But if you just want to savour the view of the Ferris wheel while enjoying a classical Canadian winter activity, head to the Patinoire du Vieux Port. The Patinoire du Vieux Port or Old Port Skating rink is open from 9 am to 9 pm and until 10 pm Thursday to Sunday. The rink is such a unique setting with a spectacular view of Montréal. And when it gets dark, the rink is spectacularily illuminated. Skate rentals are $10.45 per person. You can also rent a helmet for $4.35 or bring your own skates for FREE!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Curiocity Canada (@curiocitycanada)

Miracle Christmas Bar

Hidden away, inside the Parlement Bar on Place d’Youville is an absolute Christmas Wonderland. Miracle Bar is like Christmas turned up to eleven. From the floor to the ceiling, Christmas wrapping paper covers the entirety of the space. Lights twinkle from every corner, hundreds of stockings hang from the ceiling, and of course, Christmas music blares throughout the bar. It has the warmest, most friendly atmosphere, like walking into a warm hug. When I was in town, I was alone for a portion of the trip, and I didn’t for a second feel alone in here. Everyone was in the spirit of Christmas and happy to make new friends.

There are a myriad of Christmas-themed drinks on offer, as well as beer, cider and yes, even non-alcoholic drinks as well! They all come in a delightful array of Christmas drinkware, and if you love what you’re served in, you can even buy a mug or cup to bring home!

Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site

If you’re like me a LOVE a Victorian Christmas, you must make a stop at the Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site. Every year they hold a “Victorian Christmas” at the Cartier’s home. The Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site is a historic house-turned museum located in Old Montreal. It commemorates the life and accomplishments of Sir George-Étienne Cartier. It also includes the old Cartier family home. The Cartiers were part of the upper-middle class of 19th-century Montreal and had one of the most illustrious homes in the city.

From December 4th to the 19th, you can take a guided tour of the house and see how it would have been set up for Christmas in 1897! You can see all the “latest” trends in Christmas decorations popular in the 19th century. See what they would have had on their Christmas table and even look at the marvellous fashions women would have worn to Christmas dinner. It’s a fantastic way to learn about life in the early days of Montreal and how Christmas traditions have both changed and stayed the same after hundred-plus years.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by FM guide MTL (@fmguidemtl)

Marché Place Jacques-Cartier

In the centre of Old Montreal is the Marché Place Jacques-Cartier. During the Christmas season, they set up a traditional Cabane à sucre in the square. The Cabane à sucre or sugar shack is usually found in the middle of maple groves deep in the woods around Quebec. The sap for the trees is collected throughout the year and boiled down in the springtime to make the most famous of all Canadian exports; maple syrup.

But in the wintertime, the maple syrup is boiled down even further to a thick, taffy-like consistency. It’s then poured onto a thick pile of snow to be cooled down even further. A popsicle stick is placed on top of the cooling sugar and rolled up until the sugar separates from the ice. And you get yourself a little maple syrup taffy on a stick. It is wonderfully sweet and such a treat to enjoy at Christmas time!

Noël Éternel

If you want to bring home the perfect Christmas souvenir from your trip to Montreal, there is no better place to go than Noël Éternel. The boutique located in the Old Quarter has been bringing the magic of Christmas to Montreal year-round since 1995. They have the most extensive collection of diverse Christmas decorations, from German nutcrackers, Russian dolls, mouth-blown glass ornaments or hand-painted items! There is something for everyone’s perfect Christmas tree no matter what your style.

Notre-Dame Basilica Aura

Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal or Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the most famous buildings in all of Montreal. Its steeple can be seen from all over the city, as it was once a city ordinance that no building could be built taller than the church itself. Construction began on Notre-Dame Basilica in 1672 with a small parish. Over the years, after the growth of the city, Montreal wanted to be known as the jewel of Canada. And to be such a place you needed a fantastical church. The breathtaking interiors of the church were constructed from 1785 to 1795. And the facade and vaulting were finished in 1818.

The interior of the church is what people come from far and wide to see. It is perhaps the most dramatic interiors in North America, if not the world. It features masterpieces of Gothic Revival architecture, with deep blue painted vaults covered in golden stars. The sanctuary is painted in blues, azures, reds, purples, silver, and gold. One of the most unique aspects of the church is their stained glass windows. Instead of depicting biblical scenes, the windows depict scenes from the religious history of Montreal.

Aura

Over 11 million visitors come to see the church every year, and one of the most alluring aspects of the church is that they have transformed the space from a simple place of worship to a multimedia spectacular. Aura transforms the interior of the church and highlights different aspects of the building using lights and projections. Music accompanies the entire performance. At times it feels like you are witnessing the church being built around you.

As someone who loves ecclesiastical architecture, I found the entire thing very moving. But the tickets are pricey. At $32 a person, there are plenty of people who might find this over-priced and underwhelming, especially when you can see projections for free outside with Cite Memoir. The show runs from Thursday to Saturday all year. But it does feel extra special at Christmas, even without any specific Christmas references.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Aura Basilique Montréal (@aurabasiliquemontreal)

Le Petit Dep

In the centre of Old Montreal, you can’t help but notice the darling aqua exterior and gold trimmings of Le Petit Dep. “Dep” is short for “Dépanneur,” which means convenience store. But this is a convenience store unlike any other! The building is from 1822 and has been transformed into this hipster coffee shop and boutique. Retro decor and vintage furniture compliment the space, inviting you inside and wrapping you in warmth from the cold. The cafe features a myriad of different Christmas-themed desserts during the Christmas season. And the boutique turns into the absolute perfect one-stop shop for everyone on your Christmas list.

Centaur Theatre

Located in the old Canadian stock exchange building, Centaur Theatre is one of the best examples of Montreal’s vibrant art community. Every year they put on a showstopping Christmas comedy. There is something new to see every year. If you are looking for something a little different than you’re typical Christmas nativity play, then this is definitely something you should check out!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mario Bernier (@mario_bernie)

Cité Mémoire

If you need another reason to wander the old streets of Montreal after the sun goes down, it is to see Cité Mémoire. Cité Mémoire breathes new life into the old city. The best outdoor video projections the world over are used across the old town to transform the urban landscape. Buildings and cobblestones are used as a canvas to tell the stories that have shaped the city. 24 different tableaux composed of images, dialogue, and music are projected on walls, alleys, ground, and even on the trees! Be sure to download their app that will guide you along the different routes. This allows you to explore the various projections hidden around the city with ease.

While there might not be a specific Christmas theme to this installation, it gives you a reason to get out and enjoy the outdoors after dark. And watching the projections surrounded by falling snow and twinkling Christmas lights is nevertheless a magical holiday experience.

Village de Noël de Montréal

If you’re like me and mourning the fact that you couldn’t easily make it out to the German Christmas Markets this year, the Great Christmas Market in Montreal or Village de Noël de Montréal will make your heart sing! From the end of November until the beginning of January, you can wander through a magical journey inside the Quartier des Spectacles. There are over 30 different enchanting chalets featuring both local artisans, musical entertainment and delicious food.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NOELMTL (@noelmontreal)

Inspired by traditional Christmas markets, you can find everything here from handmade jewellery, gourmet food, and classical Christmas decorations. The Montreal cold might be bitter, but it pairs well with a mulled wine and hot chocolate. Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, the decor which surrounds the market is so beguiling it’s worth just exploring.

Luminothérapie

Also located in the Quartier des Spectacles and Place des Festivals is Luminothérapie. Luminothérapie is an interactive illuminated art exhibit. Buildings have incredible projections placed upon them, and magical sound-and-light installations are placed along the sidewalks to be interacted with by passers-by. This is the kind of Christmas magic that you’ll see being enjoyed as much by the locals as by visitors. For the locals, it is something new and exciting to see. And as the winter weather begins to creep in it makes the cold all the more enjoyable.

The Nutcracker

Every year, the Les Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montréal presents The Nutcracker throughout the month of December. This year the show is a unique take on the production featuring the Kingdom of Sweets as well as all that iconic Tchaikovsky score. The show overwhelms you with the Christmas spirit and is a wonderful way to see the artistry of the Montreal ballet.

The Jardins d’Hiver

Jardins d’Hiver, or the Winter Gardens, is a special Christmas trail located just outside the Place des Arts, on Sainte-Catherine Street between Jeanne-Mance and Saint-Urbain. The wintery pathway takes visitors along a Christmas trees-lined maze towards these little cottages displaying enchanting dioramas. It’s like exploring a magical and luminous fairy-tale. The trail ends with a Grand Christmas tree perfect for your holiday photos.

Jean-Talon Christmas Market

The Jean-Talon Market is a huge farmer’s market in the Little Italy neighbourhood of Montreal. The market was opened to the public in 1933 and is over two city blocks long! The market is open year-round, even during Montreal’s frigid winters. As of last year, they opened their very first Christmas Market. The market has a focus on local cuisine! This market is a festive culinary experience that you absolutely cannot miss! Everything from chocolate to maple syrup and pastries are overflowing inside the darling wooden huts located inside the market building. Twinkle lights hang from the ceiling and blue spruce and fir trees make the entire room smell like Christmas!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Marché Jean-Talon (@marchejeantalon)

Montreal Christmas Village

Located just outside the Old Town, in Atwater Place du Marché, you can walk around Montreal’s Christmas Village. The event is held from the end of November to the end of December. This marvellous public square is decorated for the holidays with local food vendors, artisan market stalls, live music and great activities for the kids. The little kiosks are all set up inside a wooden hut, reminiscent of old European Christmas markets.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joëlle (@joelle_alexia)

A Christmas tree farmer sells Christmas trees inside the market to the locals here, so it always smells divine! Sitting beside the Christmas trees enjoying a hot cup of cocoa is a wonderful way to relax.

Noël dans le Parc

Noël dans le Parc, or Christmas in the Park, is an event held along Mont-Royal Avenue and Cartier Street in the Parc des compagnons de Saint-Laurent. Festivities run on the weekends from 2 pm to 5 pm during November and December. The Christmas celebrations include wonderful musical entertainment, perfect for those who love to sing carols. Grab a glass of warm mulled wine or hot chocolate and sit to enjoy the wonderful musical and artistic programming. This is very much a community-driven event, so you’ll find lots of locals with their families coming out to enjoy the outdoor party.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vivi Romero (@vicaroac)

Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal

Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Montreal. But at Christmas time, there is an even better reason to make your way out here. Inside the church is their museum collection featuring their various famous “Crèches.” A Crèche is a model or tableau representing the scene of Jesus Christ’s birth, usually displayed in homes or public places at Christmas. We also call these “Nativity Scenes.” The museum collections feature two of the church’s historic large outdoor Nativity Scenes.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by dannieinvancouver (@demoiselledannie)

But even more interesting, is the museum’s collection entitled ‘A World in a Crèche.’ This part of the museum features nearly one hundred Nativity Scenes from as many countries. Viewing all these different scenes, you can study the different ways each country depicts the Nativity scenes and how different artists make their unique impression on the classical display.

Juliette et Chocolate

One of my personal favourite places to go in Montreal is Juliette et Chocolate. This is place has immense nostalgia for me as I would frequent it with my dad when he lived in Montreal. Juliette et Chocolate is a chocolate lover’s paradise! Their cafe was originally just a little chocolate shop in Quebec City but as soon as it opened, it was a complete hit with the locals! They opened their first location in Montreal and it was just as big a success. Today, there are three different locations spread across the city. The shop sells all kinds of decadent desserts. From intensely chocolate brownies to rich fondues, sweet crepes and artful chocolates and pastries!

Hot Chocolate

But during the Christmas season, there is one main reason to come to Juliette et Chocolate, which is for their hot chocolate! They have over eight different flavours, which are sure to warm your body and soul. The favourite that keeps me coming back year after year is their Grandma’s style hot cocoa. The velvety hot chocolate is so thick and rich it almost feels like you’re drinking a chocolate fondu! You can even choose the type of chocolate for your drink; 70% Dark, 55% Dark, 33% Milk, or White!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Juliette & Chocolat (@juliette_chocolat)

And don’t worry, if you’re vegan, they even have a few vegan options made with an almond beverage. For a splurge, go for their smoked campfire hot chocolate (which costs a whopping $14.59 CAD!) This chocolatey campfire experience comes with their velvety hot chocolate smoked with wood chips and served with our brownie and toasted marshmallow skewer. If you’re looking for the best Christmas gift to bring home, they have a wide selection of amazing Christmas-themed chocolates and even produce their own advent calendars.

Le Darling

Darling café and bar are some of the enchanting settings for a Christmas dinner or nightcap. Hidden away inside a dark window front along Blvd St-Laurent, you step inside and are immediately overwhelmed by the whimsical decor within. The interior designers responsible for the fantastic interiors were inspired by colours and textures from steampunk with a modern, sassy twist. Decorating the walls are eclectic items like dolls inside bell jars, teacups, mannequins and carnival regalia. But during the Christmas season, they go ALL OUT on Christmas decorations with baubles hanging from every single surface and twinkling lights casting a magical warm glow all around the room.

Wherever you find yourself in this city, you are bound to discover the magic of Christmas. From random choirs roaming the streets to Christmas light displays outside family homes, there is so much to see and do in this city outside of the list I’ve curated for you here. Let me know in the comments what amazing discoveries you make on your next trip to Montreal!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Your Guide to Spending the Best Christmas Holiday in Montreal [UPDATED 2023] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.