The Outlook team take a deep dive into the landmark attractions of Montréal, from the iconic Ring to its enormous open-air markets.
Mount Royal
Central to the city’s landscape, this large hill stands at 764 feet tall and is part of Mount Royal Park. Offering breathtaking views, particularly from its summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of Montréal and the surrounding areas. On Westmount Summit, one of Mount Royal’s three peaks, is Saint Joseph’s Oratory, featuring a chapel with 10,000 candles and the largest domed basilica in North America.
Underground City
As a must-see architectural marvel, integrating modern and historic buildings, Montréal has an extensive underground network of complexes, known as the RÉSO – a homophone of the French word réseau. Stretching over 20 miles (mi), it includes everything from shopping centres to metro stations and boasts stunning artwork, sculptures, and installations, making it a unique experience.
In the heart of the St. Lawrence River lies Parc Jean-Drapeau, which is made up of two islands – Sainte-Hélène and Notre-Dame. The park offers an ideal escape with a variety of entertainment, sports, cultural, and recreational activities, or a leisurely stroll for those seeking a peaceful afternoon. The iconic Biosphère, a geodesic dome and environmental museum, is also located here.
A true icon of Montréal, this 30-metre-wide steel circle is suspended above the staircase to the Esplanade Place Ville Marie. In a touch of Montréal flair, The Ring’s evening illumination mirrors that of the Mount Royal Cross, an unmistakable symbol of the city’s landscape, whilst simultaneously symbolising the historic bond of the built heritage along an important axis in the city’s downtown core.
The Ring, Montréal
Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal
The stunning ceiling, wood carvings, stained glass windows and massive organ of this gorgeous Gothic Revival church will leave you awestruck. Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal stands as a majestic testament to the importance of religion and art throughout the city’s history. The basilica’s interior is a sight to behold, with its bright blue colours, shimmering gold-leaf ornamentation, intricate woodwork, religious paintings, and colourful stained-glass windows.
A bastion of Little Italy, this is one of North America’s largest open-air public markets. Jean-Talon Market’s lively atmosphere, authentic character and wide selection of fresh, local produce and specialities from here and abroad always make for a pleasant and appetising outing. True to its culture and spirit, the Jean-Talon Market showcases local and ethnic eats and a diverse array of merchants. Open year-round, the market changes with the seasons.
The Travel team at Outlook Travel Magazine are responsible for showcasing travel destinations in the magazine, travel guides, and digital platforms, and sourcing collaborations with travel destinations for future editions.
