A clash of French and English chatters throughout the streets of Montreal. Located on an island between the Riviere des Prairies and the St. Lawrence River, Montreal contains a New World cosmopolitan feel with a dash of European romance. From its pavement cafes to the charming architecture throughout its buildings, boutiques and bars, Montreal might be the closest city to Paris without the flight overseas.
Montreal was once an Iroquois village of Hochelaga until Jacques Cartier came to town. The explorer discovered the city in 1535. By 1760, a French colony was established. Montreal would undergo British influence and occupation, but what remains today seems unquestionably French.
Beginning a trip through Montreal, travelers make their way to Vieux Montreal or Old Montreal. Right near the St. Lawrence River, the old town lurks where the original fortified city stood. Many of the buildings and streets here date back to the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Street entertainers draw crowds as payment cafes fill for lunch and dinner. Wandering Vieux Montreal’s cobbled streets proves beneficial for shoppers and diners alike.
Much of the city’s oldest and most famous attractions rest in Vieux Montreal. Two churches dominate attentions for their styles and age. Basilique Notre Dame decorates in gothic style. Constructed in the 1820s, Basilique Notre Dame’s twin towers remain one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The city’s oldest church also finds a home in Chapelle Notre-Dame de Bon Secours. Original frescoes cloud the interior along with a small museum to Marguerite Bourgeoys, Canada’s first saint. Climbing to the top of this church’s tower displays breathtaking views of the port and surrounding streets.
Deeply rooted traditions extend to the Vieux Port or the Old Port. Montreal quickly became one of the most famous trading ports in all of North American. Today, walkers and bikers frequent the promenade, getting in that necessary city recreation.
Montreal’s history is a rich one, pouring out of its pockets and museums. The Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History recounts the story of the city. Archaeological remains are on display, reminding visitors of just how wealthy the city’s history appears to be. Others can head to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts or the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art. Architecture fans delight in the Centre Canadien d’Archiecture in Montreal for its exhibits on buildings, architects, and architectural movements.
Exploring Montreal’s neighborhoods is an attraction in itself. The Plateau Mont Royal and Mile End serve as the city’s acclaimed urban villages. Many of the first immigrants to the city arrived in this area. This could be the reason for their undeniable energy and life. The Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods of the city are also worth a look for their mini cultures, foods, and shops.
After a day of sightseeing through Montreal, travelers may find the urge to see a well-rounded view of the city. Up to the city’s highest point of Mount Royal, visitors will find a landscaped park. Joggers swish on by with bouncing ponytails, enjoying several kilometers of parkland to exercise as far as their running shoes will carry them. Mount Royal also hosts lookout points, highlighting the city’s drama and the St. Laurence River.
No matter your nationality, Montreal will lend a dose of Europe in North America. Its great food, edgy culture and rich nightlife prove this city is a lively one. While Paris is the city of many esteemed clichés, Montreal comes in as a close second for providing Parisian elegance.
