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Between the food, the stunning architecture, the street art, and the festivals, one doesn't need excuses to visit Montreal. It's a city filled with creative energy and it has the power to make you feel like you're in Europe — without the long plane ride. If you're seeking you're next weekend getaway, here are 10 reasons you should travel to Montreal now.
1. City Views
For the best views of Montreal, climb up to the top of Mount Royal. Travelers hike up the hill to the famous lookout point for a scenic and striking view of the downtown area.
2. Poutine
Montreal poutine can come in all shapes and sizes, but it's essentially a dish of french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Most restaurants take the "classic" poutine to the next level with delicious additions such as smoked meat, mushrooms, onions, bacon, and more.
3. Street Art
One of the best things about Montreal is the incredible creative energy all around. Just walking down the street every day, you will see unique and original art work. Since 2013, the city has hosted the Mural Festival to showcase the best of its local talent as well as great international artists.
4. The Bota Bota Spa
A historic river ferry turned upscale "floating spa," Bota Bota Spa offers diverse treatments, yoga, and a gourmet restaurant. Guests can book a full day of water circuits, where you can reap the benefits of freezing-cold Nordic baths, which improve circulation, eliminate toxins, stimulate the cardiac system, and more.
5. Architecture
Montreal has a wide variety of stunning architecture with a mix of old and new styles, making it a very photogenic city. From charming colorful townhouses to the glass skyscrapers that make up the iconic Montreal skyline, it's a breathtaking sight to walk throughout the areas of Montreal.
6. Montreal Bagels
The Montreal bagel is a distinctive variety of handmade and wood-fired baked bagel. In contrast to the New York-style bagel, the Montreal bagel is much smaller, thinner, sweeter, and denser. Some of the best shops to try a Montreal bagel at are St-Viateur Bagel and Fairmount Bagel.
7. Cafe Culture
Throughout downtown and old Montreal, you can find cozy coffee shops on basically every street. When looking for an amazing combination of delicious pastries (life-changing cronuts), caffeine, and good vibes, head to Tommy Cafe or Cafe Olimpico.
8. Notre-Dame Basilica
Montreal's Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the jewels in Quebec's rich religious heritage. Located in the center of Old Montreal, its breathtaking interior and exterior draw in visitors from all around the globe.
9. Underground City
No visit to Montreal is complete without a visit to its Underground City, which contains restaurants, galleries, stores, hotels, metro stations, cinemas, nightclubs, and even a library. If you happen to visit Montreal during the cold Winter months, the Underground City can provide refuge from the city's harsher weather.
10. Old Port
The Old Port of Montreal is the historic port located in Old Montreal. The port stretches along the St. Lawrence River and is one of the most beautiful waterfronts in North America.
