Montreal, the vibrant cultural capital of Canada, is known for its diverse neighborhoods, incredible food scene, and bustling arts district. Yet, if you’re traveling on a budget or simply looking to enjoy the city’s treasures without spending a dime, you’re in luck! Montreal offers a wealth of free attractions that allow you to experience its unique charm without the hefty price tag. From scenic parks to hidden art installations, here’s a guide to the top Free Things to Do in Montreal —both the well-known and the hidden gems.
1. Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal)
Arguably Montreal’s most iconic landmark, Mount Royal is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Designed by the same architect who created Central Park in New York, Frederick Law Olmsted, this sprawling green space offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and the St. Lawrence River.
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The Belvédère Kondiaronk: This lookout point is where you’ll get the best panoramic views of Montreal, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
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Lac aux Castors (Beaver Lake): Perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic, the lake is surrounded by walking paths and lush greenery.
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Hiking and Winter Sports: Whether you’re hiking in the summer or ice skating and tobogganing in the winter, Mount Royal is an active playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
Step back in time as you wander through the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal. This historic neighborhood is filled with centuries-old buildings, charming shops, and stunning architecture.
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Notre-Dame Basilica (Exterior): While the interior of this gothic masterpiece has an entry fee, the exterior is a sight to behold. You can admire the intricate architecture from the outside.
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Old Port (Vieux-Port): The area by the river is perfect for a leisurely walk. You can watch the boats go by, take in the architecture, and people-watch in one of Montreal’s most picturesque districts.
3. Atwater Market and Little Burgundy
While the Atwater Market itself isn’t free to shop in, visiting it is a treat for the senses—and it’s completely free to browse. Located in the Little Burgundy neighborhood, Atwater Market is known for its beautiful, art-deco design, and its rows of fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.
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Explore the local vendors: Even if you’re not buying anything, just strolling through the market and checking out the colorful displays of fresh produce and local treats can be a fun and free experience.
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Canal Lachine: Right nearby is the Lachine Canal, a beautiful waterway perfect for a walk or bike ride. The path along the canal is free to enjoy, and it offers great views of the city.
4. La Fontaine Park (Parc La Fontaine)
Located in the heart of the Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood, Parc La Fontaine is a local favorite for relaxation and recreation. It offers vast green spaces, ponds, and shaded paths that are perfect for a summer picnic or a quiet afternoon of people-watching.
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The Ponds and Waterfalls: Wander around the large pond and enjoy the tranquility of the cascading waterfalls.
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Outdoor Theaters (Seasonal): In the summer, you can often catch free outdoor performances, from theater to live music, in the park.
5. Biodome and Botanical Garden (Exterior Exploration)
While the Biodome and the Botanical Garden charge admission for indoor exhibits, the exterior grounds are absolutely free to explore. The area surrounding these attractions offers plenty of open space, beautiful gardens, and great photo opportunities.
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Botanical Garden Grounds: Wander through the grounds surrounding the garden and enjoy various themed outdoor gardens such as the Chinese Garden and the Japanese Garden.
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The Olympic Park: Situated near the Biodome, the Olympic Park area offers large open spaces and public art installations, perfect for a stroll.
6. Street Art in the Plateau
Montreal is renowned for its street art scene, and one of the best places to experience it is in the Plateau Mont-Royal. The neighborhood is home to vibrant murals, graffiti, and public art installations that adorn the sides of buildings. Best of all, these works of art are free to explore and make for a fantastic, Instagram-worthy stroll.
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Boulevard Saint-Laurent Murals: Walk along Saint-Laurent Boulevard, and you’ll come across a wide range of murals from local and international artists.
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Mile-End’s Alley Art: Explore the back alleys of the Mile-End neighborhood for hidden pieces of street art that showcase the creativity of Montreal’s urban artists.
7. The Lachine Canal
For a free activity with a bit of history, head to the Lachine Canal. This scenic waterway has a network of bike paths and walking trails that stretch for miles, offering a peaceful escape in the city. The canal is historically significant as it was used in the 19th century to bring goods into Montreal, but today it’s a recreational spot for locals and tourists alike.
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Bike Ride or Walk: Rent a bike or simply walk along the canal’s pathways, taking in views of the water and surrounding greenery.
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Public Art Installations: Along the canal, you’ll find various sculptures and installations that add to the beauty of this peaceful area.
8. The Plateau’s Hidden Courtyards and Passageways
While Montreal is known for its vibrant streets, it’s also home to hidden courtyards and passageways that are often overlooked. Many of these secret spots are tucked away in the Plateau, offering a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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Passage Saint-André: This quiet, tree-lined courtyard is a serene spot to relax and escape the busy streets of the Plateau.
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La Promenade des Artistes: Tucked away in the middle of the Plateau, this alley features art studios, cafes, and sculptures.
9. Montreal’s Free Museums
While some of Montreal’s best-known museums charge for admission, there are a few that offer free access on certain days or year-round. These are perfect for art and culture enthusiasts who want to explore without opening their wallets.
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McCord Museum (Free on Wednesdays after 5 p.m.): This museum showcases the history of Montreal and Canadian culture. It’s free to visit on Wednesday evenings.
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The Musée d’Art Contemporain (Free on the last Sunday of every month): If you’re a fan of contemporary art, you can visit this museum for free on the last Sunday of the month.
10. Biodome’s Outdoor Trails and Cycling Paths
While the Biodome itself has an entry fee, the surrounding area offers free walking and cycling paths that run through diverse natural environments, including forests, wetlands, and fields. Whether you’re a cyclist or a hiker, this is an excellent place to experience nature in the city without paying for admission.
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Cycling Paths Along the River: You can rent a bike (or use your own) to explore the waterfront paths alongside the Biodome, offering great views of the city.
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Walking Trails: For a slower pace, enjoy the walking trails through the natural areas surrounding the complex.
Final Thoughts
Montreal is a city brimming with free activities that highlight its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors on Mount Royal, discovering hidden murals in the Plateau, or strolling through quiet courtyards, Montreal invites you to experience its magic without spending a cent. So next time you’re in the city, take a moment to seek out these free gems—you’ll be surprised by the wonders that await just around the corner.