Question 1

Is Montreal safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Montreal is one of North America's safest big cities. Old Montreal, downtown, and the Plateau are fine day and night; use normal city sense late at night.

Question 2

Do they speak English in Montreal?

Accepted Answer

French is the official, everyday language, but Montreal is very bilingual — most people in tourist areas, shops, and restaurants also speak English. A 'bonjour' is a nice opener.

Question 3

How much is the Montreal Metro?

Accepted Answer

A single all-modes fare in Zone A is C$3.75 in 2026, good on the Metro, buses, and REM. The 747 airport bus is C$11.25 and includes a 24-hour transit pass.

Question 4

How do I get from Montreal airport (YUL) downtown?

Accepted Answer

Take the 747 express bus (C$11.25, includes 24-hour transit) about 30–45 minutes, or a fixed-rate taxi (~C$48). The new REM light rail also connects the airport.

Question 5

What should I not miss in Montreal?

Accepted Answer

Old Montreal and the Old Port, Notre-Dame Basilica, Mount Royal's lookout, the Plateau and Mile End (bagels and cafés), and the Jean-Talon Market.

Question 6

When is the best time to visit Montreal?

Accepted Answer

May–September for warm days (70s°F) and its famous festival season (jazz, comedy, Osheaga); fall for color. Winters are cold and snowy but lively and cheaper.

Question 7

Do you need a car in Montreal?

Accepted Answer

No — the Metro, buses, and walking cover the city well, and BIXI bikes are everywhere in summer. Skip the car unless leaving town.

Question 8

Is Montreal expensive?

Accepted Answer

It's more affordable than Toronto or Vancouver, especially for food. The strong US dollar (US$1 ≈ C$1.40) makes its great restaurants an even better deal.

Question 9

What food is Montreal famous for?

Accepted Answer

Wood-fired bagels (St-Viateur, Fairmount), smoked-meat sandwiches (Schwartz's), poutine, and a deep café and bistro culture.

Question 10

When was Montreal established?

Accepted Answer

Montreal was founded around 1642.

Question 11

What languages do people speak here?

Accepted Answer

English and French official — French is the daily language of Québec; Punjabi, Mandarin and Cantonese big in cities.

Question 12

What is Montreal known for?

Accepted Answer

Montreal is known as: Quebec's cosmopolitan metropolis — French flair, festivals, food, and a historic Old Port..

Question 13

What timezone is it in?

Accepted Answer

Montreal is in the UTC-3:30 to UTC-8 timezone.

Montreal

Montreal at a Glance

Info about Montreal