Sachin Walls
If you're wondering what to do around Montreal Airport, you're in luck! There are plenty of options to choose from, whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or something more substantial to pass the time during a layover. For those with a longer layover, you can explore the Old Port, visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, or take a hike to the top of Mont-Royal. If you're feeling hungry, there are many restaurants to choose from, including local favourites like Trinity, Pork & Pickle, and Schwartz’s Deli. Montreal also offers a variety of tours, including bus, walking, cultural, historic, food, night, cruise, and boat tours. With a multitude of options, you can definitely make the most of your time in Montreal, even if you're just passing through the airport!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Transport options to the city | STM's 24/7 shuttle service, taxis, Uber, Via Rail airport shuttle |
| Eateries | Trinity, Pork & Pickle, Wienstein & Gavino’s, Schwartz’s Deli, Tim Hortons, Subway, Burger King, Starbucks |
| Bars | Six Pints |
| Sushi | Ryu |
| Hotels | Montreal Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel, a few more within 3 minutes of the airport |
| Attractions | Mont-Royal, Notre-Dame Basilica, Old Port, Old Montreal, Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History |
| Events | Tam-Tams, a free weekly festival held during the summer |
| Shopping | Fairview Shopping Center |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Eat at Schwartz's Deli, Trinity, or Pork & Pickle
If you're looking for a bite to eat near Montreal Trudeau Airport, there are a few local favourites to consider. Schwartz's Deli is a Montreal institution, having been in operation for decades. It's known for its smoked meat sandwiches, which are so popular that they've been described as a "maddening aphrodisiac" by writer Mordecai Richler. The deli is also credited with creating the famous Montreal steak spice, so be sure to try one of their steaks as well. You can find Schwartz's in the heart of Montreal, just a short taxi ride from the airport.
For something a little different, Trinity is another popular spot, serving up local specialties and international dishes. It's a great choice if you're looking for a sit-down meal and a break from airport food. Located in the city centre, it's easily accessible by taxi or the 747 Express bus route.
If you're in the mood for something more casual, Pork & Pickle is a great option. This outpost of a local restaurant serves up delicious sandwiches and other casual fare. It's a perfect choice if you're short on time but still want to taste a bit of Montreal's culinary culture.
Lastly, while you're in Montreal, it's worth exploring the city beyond just the restaurants. Old Montreal, with its cobblestone streets and alleys, is a charming neighbourhood to stroll through. Visit the Notre Dame Basilica and Bonsecours Market, and don't forget to take in the views from Mount Royal Park. With at least 6 hours between flights, you can make the most of your layover and enjoy all that Montreal has to offer.
Boston Logan Airport: Managing High Traffic and Demand
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica
If you're looking for things to do near Montreal Airport, one option is to visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, a breathtaking and iconic site in Old Montreal. The basilica is located on Place d'Armes and is accessible via the city's public transit system, with the Destination Centre-ville shuttle option from the airport making 11 stops through downtown.
The Notre-Dame Basilica is Montreal's oldest Catholic church, founded in 1656, and is known for its intricate and colourful interior design. The spectacular interior features a colourful ceiling, gold accents, intricate statues, colourful stained-glass windows, and the famous 12-ton Jean-Baptiste bell. The basilica is also adorned with a majestic organ and countless paintings and sculptures. Its neo-Gothic façade, with twin towers, faces Place d'Armes, and it was designated a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1982. It has been the site of state funerals, including that of former Prime Minister Pierre-Elliott Trudeau, and notable weddings, such as that of Celine Dion.
The basilica offers a unique and unparalleled touristic experience with its gilded-gold nave and exquisite masterpieces. It is considered a symbol of Quebec's heritage and is one of the city's most visited sites. Visitors can also enjoy the Aura light show, which enhances the beauty of the already stunning space. The basilica is more than just a historic site; it is a true masterpiece that leaves visitors speechless, whether they are religious or not.
The basilica is also home to a musical series, Music O'Clock, which features classical music and jazz performances. All proceeds from these events go towards the long-term Restoration Project, managed by the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal Foundation, which aims to preserve the exterior façade and integrity of the building.
Bag Sizes: Airport Rules and Regulations
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$7.98 $19.87
$49.99
Explore Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal)
Old Montreal, or Vieux-Montreal, is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the city's rich history and dynamic culture. With its cobblestone streets, charming architecture, and picturesque waterfront, this area offers an unbeatable glimpse into Montreal's past and present. Here is a guide to help you make the most of your time in Old Montreal.
Start your journey by strolling along the historic St-Paul Street, one of the city's oldest thoroughfares. Take in the cobblestone charm and explore the surrounding streets, such as Rue des Récollets and Rue Sainte-Hélène, bordered by some of Montreal's oldest houses and lampposts. Wander along Rue Saint-Paul between Rue Saint-Urbain and Rue Saint-Pierre to discover unique shops and boutiques.
As you continue your exploration, make your way towards the St. Lawrence River waterfront. Walk down Avenue McGill, admiring the stately Art Nouveau buildings along the way. Reach the river and enjoy the peaceful pathways, popular among joggers, cyclists, and romantic strolling couples. Take in the views of the city skyline and the vibrant green spaces from the waterfront.
No visit to Old Montreal is complete without experiencing its culinary delights. The district has undergone a culinary renaissance, offering mouth-watering restaurants, markets, and cafes. Indulge in fancy poutine, gluten-free sweets, and craft beers as you wander the Gothic Revival-style streets. Don't miss the iconic Schwartz's Deli, famous for its smoked meat sandwiches since 1928.
For art and history enthusiasts, Vieux-Montreal is a treasure trove. Discover the Montreal Science Centre, with its interactive exhibits and 3D movies. Explore the historic Bonsecours Market, a 150-year-old public market that once served as a famous trading hub. Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, known for its stunning architecture, intricate gilded design, and breathtaking stained glass. And don't forget to check out the historical art museums and galleries scattered across the old town.
Whether you're strolling along the waterfront, savouring culinary delights, or immersing yourself in history and culture, Old Montreal is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So, leave your car behind and explore like a local—by métro or on foot!
What FAM Means in Aviation and Airport Settings
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![Magical Mystery Tour[DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71VWPsS+61L._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Hike or bike to the top of Mont-Royal
If you're looking for a workout after a long flight, hiking or biking to the top of Mont-Royal is an excellent option. This small mountain, located in the centre of Montreal Island, offers scenic views of downtown Montreal and the Saint Lawrence River. The mountain features a large steel cross at its summit, which has been a part of the landscape since the 1600s.
There are multiple ways to hike or bike to the top of Mont-Royal. You can start at McGill University's campus and hike uphill, stopping at multiple lookouts along the way. The most direct route is via the famous 339 stairs, which can be accessed from Peel Street. Alternatively, you can take the Olmsted Trail, a longer but more scenic route that loops around the mountain's three summits. If you're short on time or prefer a faster mode of transport, you can rent electric Bixi bikes to zip up the paved roadway.
Along the way, you'll find a beautiful chalet with stunning views of Montreal and amenities like washrooms and a gift shop. The Kondiaronk Lookout, named after a Wendat chief, offers a postcard-worthy view of the city, especially at sunrise or sunset. The summit loop, about two kilometres long, takes you past the famous cross and along the north side of the mountain to another lookout. From there, you can continue to Lac aux Castors or head back down the mountain.
If you have more time, you can combine the Mont-Royal nature walk with a visit to the Old Port. It's about a half-hour walk from Mont-Royal to Boulevard Saint-Laurent, a popular destination for restaurants, bars, cafes, and boutiques. Or, if you're looking for a bite to eat near the airport, Schwartz's Deli is a Montreal icon, serving up famed smoked-meat sandwiches since 1928.
Amsterdam Airport: Managing Busy Travel Hubs Efficiently
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Take a shuttle to a hotel
If you're looking for a place to stay near Montreal Airport, there are several hotels that offer a shuttle service. The Sheraton Montreal Airport Hotel, for example, provides a shuttle that runs every hour and half-hour, departing from the hotel to the airport at xx:00 and xx:30, and returning from the airport to the hotel at xx:15 and xx:45. The Residence Inn by Marriott Montreal Airport is another option, with a free 24/7 shuttle service and complimentary breakfast.
Taking a shuttle to a hotel can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get to your accommodation, especially if you have a late arrival or early departure. Some hotels offer an on-demand shuttle service, where you can call the hotel after collecting your bags, and they will send the shuttle to pick you up. This can be a great option if you want to avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation or the expense of a taxi.
It's important to note that some shuttle services may be affected by COVID-19 restrictions, so it's always a good idea to check with the hotel ahead of time to ensure the shuttle is running as expected. Additionally, some hotels may have specific pick-up and drop-off points, so it's worth clarifying this information in advance to avoid any confusion.
If you have a layover in Montreal and are looking for things to do, you can head to the top of Mont-Royal for a nature walk or take a taxi to Boulevard Saint-Laurent to explore its restaurants, bars, and boutiques. For a taste of Montreal's iconic food scene, Schwartz's Deli, serving smoked-meat sandwiches since 1928, is a popular choice. And if you have more time to spend in the city, you can visit key monuments and world-class museums, such as the Notre-Dame Basilica in the Old Port.
Baltimore, Maryland: A Hub of Aviation with Multiple Airports
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Local foodies recommend Trinity, Pork & Pickle, and Wienstein & Gavino’s. For a good local experience, Schwartz’s Deli is an iconic choice, serving smoked-meat sandwiches since 1928.
The most cost-effective way is via the city’s public transit system (the STM), which offers a 24/7 shuttle service with two route options. The Destination Terminus Lionel-Groulx is a single-stop shuttle that takes between 25 and 35 minutes, depending on traffic. The Destination Centre-ville makes 11 stops through downtown with an estimated travel time of 45 to 70 minutes.
The Fairview Shopping Center is about a 15-minute drive from the airport. The Old Port is another great option, where you can take a Caleche (horse-drawn) carriage ride and visit museums.
Head to the top of Mont-Royal for a workout and stunning views. If you’re there on a Sunday during the summer, you can watch the Tam-Tams, a free weekly festival in the park.
