Winter season in Canada often rhymes with slowing down, curling up in warm blankets and spending time indoors, protected by the harsh elements. The days are shorter and time can seem frozen in place – no pun intended. Well, that’s perhaps true for almost every Canadian city except Montreal.
Montreal’s vibrant nightlife and festive outdoor activities extend to its cold winter months, which leads to a great variety of things to do in Montreal in winter. Let’s dive into these top 10 Montreal winter activities to enjoy the city at its fullest!
1. Bold enough to face the cold?
Montreal’s iconic Bota Bota spa offers a whole new experience during the cold winter months. Reinvigorate your body with the hot and cold circuits while gazing at the snow-white scenery during this mesmerising Montreal winter activity.
Bota Bota offers amazing body and facial treatments, various massage therapies and a unique water circuit. For those looking to relax and get the best bang for their buck, the spa offers different packages such as reduced prices after 5 pm from Friday to Sunday.
2. Get your skates ready
You can’t enjoy Montreal winter activities without exploring the city’s various skating rinks. Whether you go to the Old Port’s iconic Skating Rink or opt for a more local experience ice-skating on the Mount royal park, you won’t be disappointed.
3. Keep your body warm with hearty dishes
Montreal is known and celebrated for its flourishing food scene, from casual eateries to trendy bistros. With more restaurants per capita than any other North American city, there’s something for even the pickiest of eaters.
Check out Au Pied de Cochon, L’Express and Ma Poule Mouillée. Schwartz is also one of the biggest names in town. This place is famous for its delicious meat sandwiches. All of these food spots will warm your heart during this snowy season for sure.
4. View the city in a different light
Montreal’s Lights Festival is one of the largest winter festivals in the world. The Quartier Des Spectacles is submerged in an impressive display of colourful lights and art installations, and exciting events take place throughout the entire month of February. If you happen to visit the city during that time, you won’t want to miss out, especially if you’re an art lover!
5. Montreal’s best craft beer tour
Let’s extend your tasting experience with these Montreal winter activities! City Brew Tours is the leading North American craft beer tour experience. It’s an activity you won’t want to miss out on. City Brew Tours offers an unmatched Montreal brewery tour and handles all the logistics.
By participating in a craft beer tour, you’ll meet fantastic people, learn about Montreal’s best breweries and taste incredible beer!
6. Montreal winter activities: Party outdoors
You can’t visit Montreal in the winter without going to Igloofest. Also called the coldest festival in the world, this electronic music festival takes place in the Old Port during the months of January and February. Pack your warmest (and funkiest) winter clothing and get ready to dance to phenomenal local and international DJs during this iconic Montreal winter activity.
7. Try an authentic sugar shack
Quebecers cherish and love their Maple syrup, and for a good reason! Learn about the production of maple syrup while getting your fill of incredible dishes. Most authentic sugar shacks are outside the city centre, so plan a full-day trip for this activity. Psst! You’ll get to see some beautiful countryside scenery as well!
8. Enjoying christmas markets: One of the most classic montreal winter activities
Get in the Christmas spirit by visiting a local gem: the Atwater Market. Situated alongside the Lachine Canal, the Atwater Market is booming with activity rain or shine, winter or summer. You’ll find a range of local products, unique handmade gifts and have an overall authentic Montreal experience. Check out all Montreal’s upcoming winter markets.
9. Walk around Montreal’s iconic old port
Learn about Montreal’s historic streets by visiting the Old port of Montreal. You’ll see a lot of European influence, interesting art expositions and museums. The area is also full of lovely cafés and restaurants. It’s a must-see!
Our favourite spots include Crew Café, The Pointe-à-Callière museum, the Notre-Dame Basilica and the Jacques-Cartier square.
10. Explore Montreal’s underground city
Are you looking for indoor activities? Montreal has vast underground tunnels linking the downtown Montreal shopping area. This allows you to shop at some of the best boutiques without ever having to brace the cold! Grab a bite at the Time Out Market while you’re there, or enjoy a mid-week drink between 5 and 7 pm.
Frequently asked questions
Can you just speak English in Montreal?
While being the only French-speaking province in Canada, most people in Montreal speak English and French. For an international experience, make sure to visit Montreal’s Chinatown and Little Italy neighbourhood.
What is there to do in the Old port of Montreal in winter?
The Old Port of Montreal has tons of unique winter activities. Party at Montreal’s very own Igloofest in the heart of Montreal’s Old port. You can also visit Christmas markets, go skating or try some of the best restaurants in the city. Plan at least a full day in Old Montreal in your itinerary for an historical walking day; you won’t be disappointed!
Is Montreal a cheap city?
The cost of living is constantly rising, but Montreal remains Canada’s most affordable big city. To save money during your trip, we recommend booking an Airbnb over a hotel. We also suggest using public transportation over Uber or taxis.
What is the coldest month in Montreal?
The coldest month of the year in Montreal is January. The coldest temperature recorded was -37.8 Celsius on January 15, 1957.
How do people dress in Montreal in the winter?
People dress very warmly in the winter months in Montreal. Pack your warmest snow boots, gloves, hat and winter jacket. In cases of extreme cold, it isn’t rare to see Montrealers with ski glasses, snow pants and even face masks!
Enjoy the best Montreal winter activities with City Brew Tours!
Do you want to enjoy original and impressive Montreal winter activities? Contact City Brew Tours and enjoy the best breweries in Montreal during all-inclusive tours with your friends or during team building activities! We will manage everything while you have fun.