Montreal tourist information
"Discovered" in 1535 by Jacques Cartier, and founded more than a century later, in 1642, by a handful of French settlers determined to convert the native American Indians to Christianity, Montréal, today, numbers 3.4 million people of virtually every single nationality and creed on the planet. Throughout its colourful history, Montréal has been in turn a French settlement, a British stronghold and a bilingual city. Today it is officially bilingual and proud of its status as the largest French-speaking city in North America. In fact, this is a wonderful example of a truly international city where newcomers feel right at home and visitors will always find someone who speaks their language.
The founders settled along the banks of the Saint-Lawrence, the majestic river that brought them here. Today as you tour the Old Port and Old Montréal, you'll find that much of what they and their ancestors built has been lovingly preserved: graceful stone buildings, stately churches, cobblestone streets... Elsewhere, historic neighbourhoods are being restored so more people can live downtown, but it is being done very carefully so as to preserve the special character of each area.
Twice Montréal has hosted huge international events: the world fair in 1967 and the Summer Olympics in 1976. Both times the city donned new apparel to receive its guests, and the unique pavilions built for Expo as well as the stunning Olympic Stadium are testaments to the pure creativity and welcoming spirit that drive this city.
Browsing or buying, you'll discover great shops all over the city... and even underneath it! Venture out into streets lined with Victorian boutiques, antique shops or a whole underground network of commercial centers. From downtown chic to Old Montréal charm, the incredible choice is yours.
Dining in Montréal promises to be a memorable part of your trip. Renowned for its fine cuisine, French bistros and sidewalk cafés, the city offers an enormous variety of regional and international dining. Satisfy your craving for great food, Montréal-style.
Montréal has a unique mix of historical, natural and cultural offerings to satisfy even your most diverse tour groups and individual travelers.
Montreal aerial map
Please click on any icon on the Montreal aerial tourist map, to find close by places, offering hotels and tourist information. You can zoom in and zoom out our touristical map as well as switch between satelite and map view of Montreal.
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