The Best Montreal Travel Guide For New Tourists

By Christa Jarvis


Montreal, in Quebec, Canada, is a francophone city that attracts many visitors. People enjoy the culture, architecture and European flair of the city. If seeing this city appeals to you, you may want to find the best montreal travel guide for exploring the city.

The city is one of the most bilingual in Canada. Over half of the population speaks both English and French. After Paris, it is the second largest French-speaking place in the world. Many tourists who do not know French like to learn a few French phrases before they go there, so that they can easily converse with the locals. Although many people there speak French, it is sometimes helpful to know how to order in a restaurant or ask for directions in French should the need arise.

As you plan your trip, one of the main things you will have to decide on is when to go. The height of tourist season tends to be in the summer months. In the off-season, you will notice that hotel rates start to drop. From about March to May, the temperatures are fairly mild, although there may be the odd patch of snow. It is still mostly pleasant enough to be outdoors. This is when you can see the St. Patricks Day Parade.

This is also where many French language television productions are created for both theatre and film. In fact, the majority of French productions in Canada originate from here. If you love the French language, then you may enjoy immersing yourself in the French culture of the city. There is also a vibrant musical presence there, with many local artists producing rock and jazz music.

However, if you prefer to visit in the cooler weather, you can still find many festivals in the autumn months as well. The World Film Festival is held from August to September. POP Montreal is held every September. In October you can see the Burlesque Festival and the Black & Blue Festival.

Besides the historic churches, there are also many contemporary bistros and boulevards in the city. Many people claim that Montreal is an interesting mix of Old World style and modern flair. There are many traditional cobbled stone streets and buildings, but you can also find modern architecture and sophisticated shops around the city.

If you enjoy the movies, there are many theaters in Montreal. The city has many local producers and artists that prepare their own productions. These indoor activities can be enjoyed without setting foot outdoors in the cold.

When planning your Montreal trip, first decide what time of the year you want to go and how long your visit will last. Think about what activities and events you and family might enjoy watching. When you have a list of things you want to do, plan a schedule so that you can fit everything in without missing out on something. Remember to budget carefully and keep tabs on your spending.




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