Old Montreal
No Trip To Montreal is complete without a visit to Old Montreal
Old Montreal is the once walled city, the mother city which is located in the borough of Ville Marie. This is where it all began for the city of Montreal back in 1642. The old city centre is steeped in history of interest for those native to Montreal as well as for tourists. You will really enjoy the charming Old European atmosphere as you stroll the streets of the historic neighbourhood.
The founder of Montreal was Sieur Maisonneuve after he, Jeanne Mance and their other companions landed. Back then they called the area Ville Marie. Now you can visit the very spot where they first landed. How will you find it? Look for the obelisk that was erected in 1893.
When walking down the streets of Old Montreal you can very easily see the architectural influences on the buildings from the different time periods. The oldest building in Montreal is the Old Sulpician Seminary. The seminary, which still stands, was built in 1685 and was home to the Sulpicians, responsible for building Montreal's first parish.
The Basilica of Notre-Dame is another example of architectural differences within the Old Montreal. This basilica was built in the style of Gothic revival, with its two towers and architectural detail this basilica is a glorious feast for the soul and for the eyes.
There is also the Old Port with its IMAX theatre where you can enjoy movie screening with a difference. The IMAX theatre offers a truly 3d experience. The screen is so large and the graphics so good that it truly feels as though you are in the centre of the movie.
When walking around the city not only will you see lots of historical landmarks but you will also find many museums, art galleries, restaurants and coffee shops to stop and have a leisurely lunch or quick coffee before making your way to the next historical site.
A great way to explore this part of the city is with our step-by-step self guided walking tour of Old Montreal. If you'd prefer a fully guided tour, the following is a great option.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: No
Hours: 24/7
Address: Montreal, Quebec
Official Website: Old Montreal (Vieux Montreal)
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 2 - Orange | Victoria Square, Place-d'Armes or Champ-de-Mars | 2 + Minutes |
How to get to Old Montreal (Vieux Montreal) by Metro
Old Montreal can be accessed by any of the 3 Metro stations above. Victoria Square is at the western edge, Place-d'Armes is closest to the central section and Champ-de-Mars is closest to the eastern edge. Walk south (towards the river) from any of the 3 stations to explore Old Montreal.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Old Montreal (Vieux Montreal):
Photo Gallery
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Some of the streets in Old Montreal will have you feeling like you are in Europe cc licensed photo by Konstantin Ryabitsev -
Photo Credit: Carl Campbell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Carl Campbell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Carl Campbell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Joe Passe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Carl Campbell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr
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