Montreal Travel Tips

There is only one word which really captures the essence of Montreal: multifaceted. This city represents the melding of the Old and New Worlds, with 18th-century structures blending into a 21st-century skyline. Old-fashioned houses are now home to funky fusion restaurants, and the familiar sound of English is juxtaposed against the rolled "r"s of French. Rainbow flags fly alongside cloth emblems from India, Portugal and France, and traditional French pastries are sold alongside the distinctly sweet sesame seed, Montreal-style bagel. Just when you thought you'd seen it all, a short elevator ride exposes you to another city located several stories below ground level.

This versatile city's top attractions include world-class museums and bustling marketplaces. Start your tour along the ancient cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montréal. Here, you can explore historic cathedrals or grab a cappuccino at one of the traditional French cafés along boulevard Saint-Laurent. If history doesn't excite you, head to the bustling downtown area for an afternoon of shopping or to Parc du Mont-Royal for a hike. Just make sure to save some energy for when the sun sets; Montreal -- especially rue St-Denis -- is known for a nightlife scene that continues until the small hours of the morning.

HOW TO SAVE MONEY IN MONTREAL

• Travel during the shoulder seasonsEarly spring and late fall are quieter times for Montreal, meaning that hotels drop their rates.
• Rely on your own two feetThis is a very walkable city, especially if you explore it by neighborhood. If you're growing weary, the public transportation is both convenient and cheap.
• Go sightseeingMany of the most beloved attractions -- including Vieux-Montréal, St. Joseph's Oratory and Parc du Mont-Royal -- do not charge admission.

MONTREAL CULTURE & CUSTOMS

The official currency in Canada is the Canadian Dollar, which is roughly equivalent to the U.S. dollar. When it comes to most other cultural factors, including dress, restaurant and tipping etiquette, Montreal does not differ too greatly from major American cities.

MONTREAL DINING

Like the French, Montrealers pride themselves on top-notch cuisine. Although traditional French cuisine still reigns supreme, Montreal's palate has broadened over the past few years to include Portuguese, Thai, Moroccan, Indian, Mexican and numerous other international cuisines. Whether you're looking for some steak-frites or sushi, a little taste of Paris or a little taste of je ne sais quoi, Montreal has it all.

If it's a bit of Old French cuisine that you're craving, head to Vieux-Montréal, where many of the historic buildings now house traditional French bistros and restaurants (restos). If you're looking for a more contemporary take on traditional favorites, try eating along one of the main drags --  boulevard St-Laurent, rue St-Denis or rue Crescent -- which have become major foodie hubs over the past several years. For a more diverse array of restaurants, take a stroll through the Mile End neighborhood just north of Parc du Mont-Royal, which is home to numerous immigrant populations and boasts a wide array of international fares, including Portuguese and Hassidic.