7 reasons why Montréal is the ultimate winter playground
The time is here for winter cheer, and there’s no better place to find it than in Montréal, a city that truly comes alive during the winter months, offering endless festive fun for visitors and locals alike.
During the day, explore must-see sights and thrilling activities whether you’re travelling with family, friends or that special someone. At night, Montréal illuminates with beautiful lights that are every bit as vibrant as the city itself. From world-class dining to unique winter festivals and so much more, here’s why Montréal is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable winter vacation.
1. The city lights up during winter
In Montréal, the days don’t get shorter during winter, the nights get longer—and the city takes full advantage of those extra nighttime hours with a number of breathtaking light shows.
Luminothérapie, the city’s flagship winter event, runs from December 2 through early March, offering a series of colourful (and interactive!) installations for visitors to explore. To see Montréal’s beautiful lights transform the Quartier des Spectacles, the city’s arts mecca, check out MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE from February 16 to March 5 for a truly dazzling experience.
And be sure not to miss the 20th anniversary of Nuit Blanche on February 25, when night owls can tour a number of art installations and cultural activities scattered throughout the city during the free, one-night-only event.
2. It’s the perfect place for a romantic getaway
Feel the love! Montréal oozes romance in the winter, and spots like the Old Port and Old Montréal are the perfect place to cozy up with your partner for winter romance.
To set the mood, start your day with a rejuvenating water circuit and couples massage at the Old Port’s top spa, Bota Bota. Then, take a romantic stroll down the cobblestones of Saint-Paul Street and stop into Olive et Gourmando for a pastry and a latte. End your day back at one of the city’s many stunning hotels while you sort out plans for a romantic candlelight dinner at an intimate bistro or lively neighbourhood buvette.
3. There’s tons of fun for the whole family
If getting away for a solo weekend isn’t in the cards, not to worry. There are plenty of family-friendly activities to be found in Montréal during the winter months. Hike up Mount Royal and rent a pair of skates for a lap around Beaver Lake. Or, for a more urban ice skating experience, try the brand-new skating rink at Esplanade Tranquille, located right in the heart of downtown Montréal.
If your kids have had their fill of outdoor fun, plan a visit to Montréal Space for Life, the largest natural sciences museum complex in Canada. Fun and educational, the entire family will love a day spent exploring the Planétarium, Biodôme or Insectarium.
4. It’s a foodie paradise
With its European influence and world-class culture, foodies are spoiled for choice in Montréal when it comes to spots for incredible food and drink. Want a high-end spin on classic Québécois cuisine? Look no further than Hoogan et Beaufort, which serves up inventive seasonal dishes in a hip industrial setting, and boasts an impressively vast wine list.
And, of course, no trip to Montréal would be complete without poutine. Warm up with the iconic Québec dish at Greenspot on Notre-Dame Street before heading to Hiverside in Saint-Henri, the only place in the city where you can sip a tasty winter-themed cocktail in a bar made entirely of sculpted ice.
5. Expect plenty of festive cheer
Embrace the festive spirit on streets lit with string lights, outdoor ice skating rinks, and exciting moments waiting around every corner. If you’re visiting during MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE, you won’t want to miss the innovative Scotiabank Skating Loop, a one-of-a-kind, 300-metre-long raised ice skating surface that promises to offer an unforgettable winter skating experience paired with spectacular urban views.
Meanwhile, in Old Montréal, nothing captures the spirit of winter quite like the historic Notre-Dame Basilica, especially when it’s illuminated both inside and out. The AURA Experience lights up the interior architectural elements of the Basilica at night, as visitors are invited to get a fresh perspective on this architectural masterpiece, thanks to a stunning light show set to orchestral music.
6. The city’s music and arts scene is next-level
Montréal boasts a lively arts scene, with something for everyone. Dance the night away to electronic music at Igloofest as its beats take over the Old Port every weekend from January 19th through February 11th.
Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, take in a number of inspiring exhibits at Montréal’s museums and galleries. The Jean-Michel Basquiat exhibit at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts is sure to be a highlight of the season. For a more immersive experience, OASIS immersion continues to host its hit Masterpieces by Van Gogh exhibition through January.
7. You can enjoy stunning winter scenery
Once the first snowfall hits, Montréal transforms into a life-like snowglobe, and winter is a magical time to explore the city’s many parks and gorgeous natural scenery. For a truly memorable winter experience, stroll through Mount Royal Park’s snow-covered trails, ending with a view of the city skyline at the Belvedere lookout. Or have the view come to you by grabbing a seat in one of La Grande Roue de Montréal’s luxurious gondolas for a stunning 360-degree panorama, day or night.
Finally, enjoy a classic Montréal winter experience at Parc Jean-Drapeau. Take in the beauty of the park by renting a pair of snowshoes and hitting the winter trails, while you enjoy a view of the city centre from a fresh vantage point across the river.
