Canada’s second largest city embodies traits of most every major city: walkable, diverse, cultural and filled with hungry foodies! Montreal, home to the second-largest French speaking city in the world, is home to approximately 4.1 million occupants (metropolitan area included) and is nothing short of lively and upbeat. In this edition of THOR Advantage, we will explore various travel tips, districts to visit, festivals and restaurants of marvelous Montreal.

Travel Tips

A) Montreal shares a similar climate to the East Coast of the United States. Winters can be quite cold and the summer months are consistently humid. The majority of traveler’s visit in the spring and summer months due to warmer weather. However, be wary of May—instead of bringing flowers, it can bring intense rainfall!

B) Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, also known as Dorval Airport, is the only commercial airport serving Montreal. The most economical way to travel into the city is to take the 747 Express. For a $10 fee, this bus service will drop you off at the Montreal bus station (also known as Berri-UGAM). Travel time is approximately 45-60 minutes and runs 24/7.

C) Like most metropolitan cities, Montreal has its own subway system, which is useful for exploring several districts in a single day. Montreal is also part of the popular bike-sharing system, where travelers can rent bikes at one of Montreal’s 411 stations located throughout the city. To locate a station closest to your hotel, you can visit https://montreal.bixi.com/

D) While public transportation is available, most people will advise travelers to explore the city by foot. It’s not unheard of to walk several miles each day. Therefore, packing comfortable walking shoes is an absolute must!

Montreal Districts

The French, Chinese, and Italian cultures have influenced several of Montreal’s most popular neighborhoods. Below, you will find descriptions of some of the most visited and significant neighborhoods in Montreal:

1. Downtown

OVERVIEW: Also referred to as Centre- Ville, Downtown Montreal embodies a vibrant energy and is the pulse to the city. It is where locals and tourists congregate for shopping, restaurants, museums and nightlife. You will also find the world’s largest underground complex, which includes an array of hotels, restaurants, metro systems, office buildings and universities accessed by 500,000 people daily.

NOT-TO-MISS: Each summer, thousands of people attend the Montreal International Jazz Festival. Some of the most prestigious jazz players have performed at this festival, including Miles Davis and Ray Charles. For any music enthusiast, you cannot beat this event! For more information on the dates and performers, visit www.montrealjazzfest.com.

2. Old Montreal

OVERVIEW: From the soaring skyscrapers of Downtown to old cobblestone roads, the neighborhood of Old Montreal will make you feel as though you have traveled back in time. Not surprisingly, it is the oldest neighborhood in Montreal and is filled with tourists, especially during the summertime.

NOT-TO-MISS: Place Jacques-Cartier is a square in Old Montreal, and houses the Bonsecours Market. Standing at 155 years old, (construction began in 1844 and was completed in 1860), this two-story public market includes boutiques, outdoor cafes, and restaurants.

3. Little Italy

OVERVIEW: Save your appetite, as your mouth will water at the constant aroma of pasta sauce. Perhaps you can explore Downtown during the morning and make your way over to Little Italy for lunch.

NOT-TO-MISS: In the heart of Little Italy lies one of the oldest public markets in Montreal. Jean-Talon Market is recognized for having some of the best local fruits and vegetables. The best part of the market is that you can sample anything!

4. Parc Jean-Drapeau

OVERVIEW: A perfect outing for outdoor enthusiasts or families, Parc Jean-Drapeau is Montreal’s most visited park and allows visitors to be active during all four-seasons. Here, you will find everything from an amusement park, casino, filtered water beach, ice-skating path and cross country ski trails.

NOT-TO-MISS: Parc Jean-Drapeau hosts some of the summer’s best events, including Montreal’s annual Grand Prix event, which takes place on June 5-7, 2015. Another can’t miss event is L’International des Feux Loto- Quebec, also known as the world’s largest firework competition. 2015 dates are not yet confirmed; however, it will take place between June and August.

5. The Village

OVERVIEW: The Village represents the LGBT community of Montreal. There are a variety of bars and restaurants throughout the village, along with cozy B&B’s in centuryold triplexes.

NOT-TO-MISS: Cabaret Mado is an absolute hit! The Village’s nightly show combines music, dancing and comedy. Note that it is a three-hour show, with a 30-minute intermission, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Whether you’re planning a festival during the summertime, or wish to simply wander throughout Little Italy, the growing city of Montreal will never disappoint. Simply put, there aren’t many cities where you can explore France, Italy, and China all in one day. Grab your walking shoes, come with an appetite and be sure to take advantage of all that marvelous Montreal has to offer.

Restaurants

While exploring these neighborhoods, don’t miss out on some of Montreal’s best eateries, including some of the best bagel stores in North America. A family business dating back to 1919, Fairmount Bagel is currently managed by the founders’ grandchildren and is a true local favorite. With over twenty flavors to choose from, it is no wonder that this family-run shop continues to gain nationwide press.

Similar to Fairmount Bagel, Schwartz’s began as a family deli business and has been around for over 80 years. Schwartz’s prides itself on its smoked meat, which has been made the same way since its inception by using fresh herbs and excluding any chemicals.

From old traditions to modern cooking, Chef Martin Picard’s Au Pied De Cochon should simply not be missed. Meat and seafood lovers will enjoy the mouthwatering Foie gras, pork and veal. If you’re not convinced yet, American television personality Anthony Bourdain interviewed Chef Picard on his show. Note that the restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.