Things to Do in Montreal | Winter 2024 | New Ideas
Here are 17+ things to do in Montreal this winter that will warm your heart and spice up your life just the right amount.
The snow has fallen, the mittens are out, and you’re wondering what you’re gonna do without Montreal’s amazing terraces until May. It’s okay, we’ve got you!
17. Go skate at the new and awesome Esplanade Tranquille
Nothing says winter activity like going skating. The Esplanade Tranquille is a newly opened ice rink situated in the city center. Check out their schedule for various activities like an interactive projection on ice to immerse yourself with Quebec’s biodiversity or even an evening DJ set on the rink. So brush off your skates or rent a pair and head for the bustling Quartier des Spectacles to show off your skating skills!
Good to know:
• Skate rentals are available between 10$ and 13,50$
• There are many cafés and restaurants on site to replenish your energy
• You can check the ice conditions here: https://www.patinpatin.ca/en/quartier-des-spectacles-skating-rink/
• Near Metro Place-des-Arts
16. Check out the Montreal’s new bars and restaurants
Gathering around a table with friends and loved ones is always a tradition when it’s cold out. Warm up from the inside out at these exciting new places to eat in Montreal this winter.
The carefully curated space has a sort of cozy charm that pairs well with savory Italian food. While you enjoy the warm ambiance and creative dishes, watch the chef’s at work from the open kitchen counter. On the varied and ever-changing menu you will find fun twists on Italian classics that integrate locally sourced ingredients. Don’t forget to grab a drink and linger in this lively bar-like vibe.
30 Sainte-Catherine West / Plateau Mont-Royal
This was initially a pop-up project but after an undeniably successful response Michel Nguyen and Michel Lim decided to open a permanent location for their casse-croûte (grossly translated in english as a greasy snack bar) dreams to come true. The owners are introducing many Montrealers to smash burgers with their short and simple menu. The location itself gives off nostalgic vibes with 90’s references and decor. You can enjoy your burger and fries with a refreshing glass of natural wine, a craft beer or soda.
1380 Jean-Talon street / Rosemont
This chic Chinese restaurant wraps you up in a fun décor with it’s red lanterns and hanging plants that make for a late-night ambiance. While classic dishes like wonton soup or fried rice have a spot on the menu, Andersen Lee, Oncle Lee’s founder, emphasizes on the desire to explore Chinese flavors in non-traditional dishes. This blend of classic dishes and chinese inspired twists makes for a playful menu. And if you’re in the mood for a drink, check out the establishment’s carefully selected list of cocktails and wines.
222 Laurier Avenue West / Plateau Mont-Royal
Good food doesn’t have to be complicated. Gino’s Negroni & Lasagna aim to provide a warm and comforting atmosphere with tasty homemade dishes that don’t break the bank. Try classic as well as funky takes on the Negroni while enjoying a lasagna with generous layers prepared with care. Next time that inevitable craving for Italian food comes around, give this restaurant a try.
4639 Saint-Laurent Boulevard / Plateau Mont-Royal
15. Take an Old Montreal Food & Drink Tour
It’s no secret that Old Montreal is a gem to be discovered. The Old Port, the European architecture, the cobblestone streets, and the list goes on… but what is kind of new is its foodie scene. With more and more people moving to the area, remarkable food vendors have been opening up and are well-worth discovering. The Old Montreal Food Tour takes you on a journey to many of them, highlighting Quebec culture and history as it does. What better way to enjoy the magic of winter than warm up and eat food, and then pop back out to discover the winter land for just a little bit, and then warm up with even more food!? The tour even features some warm soup broth during these cold months.
–> Check out the Old Montreal Food Tour
• Enjoy Montreal classics like smoked meat poutine, salmon bagels, craft beer and more
• Benefit from local certified guide’s knowledge
• Use promo code : FOODFRIENDS10 for a 10% discount
• Experience Montreal’s essential sights including Place d’Armes, the Old Port and St. Paul Street
14. Hit up the best ramen restaurants in town
There’s nothing quite like pairing a warm bowl of soup with a cold winter’s day. Together, head to one of Montreal’s best ramen eateries for a romantic night of rich delicacies.
Tsukuyomi Ramen
This new ramen eatery in the Mile End neighbourhood serves up their homemade noodles in a speedy fashion. In a warm setting that’s dotted with plants and orchids, patrons can sip on their Tonkostu broth which is the perfect balance of thick, fatty and creamy. Head to The Main for some of the best noodles in town!
5207 St Laurent Blvd / Mile End
Yokato Yokabai Ramen
You’ll first be greeted by warm “welcome!” from the staff as you walk in. Yokato is a small ramen eatery known for its delicious broth called Tonkotsu, made by boiling pork bones for approximately 12 hours. Top off your meal with their very own homemade ice cream!
4185 Rue Drolet / Plateau Mont-Royal
Noren
This tiny 10 seat Japanese restaurant serves up some grand meals. Their specialty is takoyaki which are round balls usually made up of octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger and green onion. You can see patrons enjoying the restaurant’s daily specials at the window bar. Though they don’t have ramen on the menu, you can savour their udon noodle and soba soups which often grace the alternating menu.
77 Rachel St W / Mile End
13. Activities for the whole fam jam!
Whether they’re your own, or family in from out of town, kids and toddlers are sure to make you re-live that mystical winter magic and warm up your heart.
The biodôme is an immersive experience that you’ll appreciate as much as your kids. Explore different ecosystems from the Sub-Antarctic to the Tropical Rainforest. If you’re lucky, you might get to spot their shy sloth! Either way you’ll get to see a bunch of furry and feathery friends. Check out their website to book tickets or hop on one of their guided tours!
The Botanical Gardens are not just a summer thing! Embark on a snowy adventure and take in the season’s beauty. Walk through the trees along the cleared paths and observe a rich habitat for many species of birds and wildlife. And don’t forget that hot chocolate tastes so much better after a day spent in the snow, so go ahead and satisfy the gangs sweet tooth!
These are just a couple ideas but we’ve curated a list of more fun activities for kids and adults. Check out this article for inspiration and guaranteed fun : things to do with kids in Montreal.
12. Warm up at the McCord Museum when it gets very cold
The McCord is, at the heart of the city, exploring culture in all its forms. This season, learn about Montreal’s history and development from 1830 to 1880 through over one hundred works of art with the exhibition Becoming Montreal. Year round, the museum also aims to bring visitors closer to the roots of the land which they occupy. While you’re at McCord, check out the museum’s permanent exhibition Wearing our Identity : The first People’s Collection where you will be invited to discover the relationship between clothing and all aspects of Indigenous life, culture, communication and identity. For more information, visit their website here.
11. Take a Montreal Craft Beer Tour!
The Montreal Craft Beer Tour is the perfect afternoon activity! Montreal is no exception to the current craft beer boom and can be easily discovered during winter time. Whether it’s as a gift to a loved one, a way to show an out-of-towner Montreal’s best brewpubs, or even a way to spend some quality time with the beer lovers you love so dearly, it’s Latin Quarter brewpub itinerary will let you savour beer, observe the cheer, and learn more about Montreal. Have a look here: montrealcraftbeertours.com
10. Of course, Igloofest! A classic thing to do in Montreal during winter
Over the years, Igloofest has become a world famous electronic music event. Montrealers will brave the absolute coldest weather, suit up in ski jackets, and hit this outdoor dance floor. Igloofest brings in some of the biggest names in the industry, so i guess we can’t blame these crazy kids. It’s almost like an extreme sport, and people take great pride in their ability to bust a move in -20 degree weather. If you’re in the mood to party you have until February 10th to catch a couple shows at the 15th édition of this chilly festival.
Check out passes and tickets here: https://igloofest.ca/en
9. Treat yourself to a spa/sauna day
Bota Bota
Relaxing in the open air by the water sounds like it would only be possible in summer, but Bota Bota is there to prove you otherwise. This spa is on an anchored boat and comes with all of the amenities for a stress-relieving water circuit so you can get the rejuvenation you need including a perfect view. It’s the perfect addition to a day spent strolling around Old Montreal.
Solstice Sauna
No need to hush in this sauna! A 90 minute drive away from Montreal is worth it if it’s to spend the day relaxing and enjoying the great outdoors. And what better way to do cold-therapy than directly in a lake? Reconnect with nature, soak in the gorgeous views and unwind with this Scandinavian inspired sauna experience.
Book your tickets here : https://solsticesauna.com/en/
8. Light up your night at Luminothérapie
Luminothérapie is all about lighting up the darker winter months. Five colorful artworks and an original video projection make up a trail on Sainte-Catherine Street West in the Quartier des Spectacles. As soon as the sun sets, the installations light up and invite pedestrians to admire the impressive lights and take part in an interactive journey. This year’s edition is all about the forces that make up the cosmos. You can visit Luminothérapie until March 10th!
Learn about the meaning of each sculpture here :
https://www.quartierdesspectacles.com/fr/evenement/331/luminotherapie-14e-edition/
7. Even more museums!
If it’s especially cold, spend the day inside one of the many museums of Montreal. Visit the impressive permanent collection at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts or check out one of the beautifully curated temporary exhibits. If you’re into archeology, history and heritage, tour the Pointe-à-Callière museum in Old Montreal. For a more contemporary approach, explore the ongoing exhibitions at the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal.
Here’s what’s on right now:
At the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
– The Pop of Life! Pop Art in the collection of the MMFA (Until July 2024)
– Georgia O’Keeffe and Henry Moore: Giants of Modern Art (Until June 2024)
– Pixels, Petit Point and Monument (a light installation projected onto the Renata Hornstein Pavillion facade from sunset to 11 pm)
At Pointe-à-Callière
– The St. Lawrence River, Echoes from the Shores (Until March 3)
– The heart and soul of Saint-Henri (Until May 2025)
At the Museum of Contemporary Art
– Velvet Terrorism: Pussy Riot’s Russia (Until March 10th)
– Fluid fossils (Visit this mural until March 31st)
By the way, if you’re from Quebec, most museums are free on the first Sunday of the month. Just saying…
6. Explore one of the coolest streets in the world
Located in the neighbourhood of Verdun, Wellington Street is home to so many great restaurants and quaint shops that make this street a great spot to explore. Here are a couple stops we think you should make:
Great wine, warm retro vibes and amazing food is what you’ll find at Verdun Beach. You’re sure to find the perfect pour in their diverse wine selection. Let yourself be tempted by their delectable tapas while you soak up the coziness of this cute spot that’s great for a laid-back evening of catching up with friends or a romantic evening.
4816 Wellington Street / Verdun
It’s not rare to see people line-up outside this sandwicheria on a sunny day. So when hunger strikes, don’t hesitate to make your way to Bossa. There you can indulge in a generously portioned, flavor packed, Italian sandwich. Explore their prêt-à-manger section where you can pick up some fresh pasta for later or a sweet treat to finish up your meal.
4354 Wellington Street / Verdun
From March 21st to March 24th, part of Wellington street transforms into a lively celebration of spring and all the sweet goodness that comes of it. If you’re in town for the sugar season, don’t miss out on the 12th édition of Cabane Panache celebrating Quebecois culture and traditions. Take part in lumberjack-themed activities, enjoy live music and classic sugar-shack dishes. If you’re looking for a unique and truly Quebecois experience during your stay in Montreal, add this festival to your itinerary!
Wellington street / Verdun
Bonus activity!
Join the Montreal Polar Bear Club and plunge into the chilly St. Lawrence river. Every Sunday at 9am Polar Bears meet at Verdun Beach for an exhilarating experience. Cold plunges have a plethora of health benefits from boosting your immune system to improving your mood. The participants create an infectious energy that will show you that the winter cold is for enjoying.
Make sure to check out their Facebook page and read through the safety guidelines and everything you need to know to join the icy fun! This unique experience is bound to be unforgettable.
4110, boulevard LaSalle / Verdun
5. Montreal en Lumière Festival
Montreal en Lumière, responsible for the famous annual Nuit Blanche, is an all-time winter favourite. In its mission to help Montrealers “take back winter”, the festival offers music performances, gastronomic events, outdoor fun and art to boot. This year is the 25th edition of Montréal en Lumière and they’ve prepared a ton of diverse activities for their programming. It’s impossible you won’t find something that suits your taste. For more information, click here.
4. Spend an afternoon thrifting
If you’re looking for a more curated experience, Palmo Goods is the answer. You’ll find vintage workwear, a military collection as well as a large selection of classics and even home goods. Their store focuses on quality with carefully hand-picked items. We also have to mention their great denim and jacket selection. You’ll be sure to leave Palmo Goods with a new wardrobe staple.
Check out their website here : PalmoGoods.com
263 Mont-Royal Ave East / Plateau Mont-Royal
Eva B. has become an institution for Montreal thrifters that enjoy a bit of chaos and good finds. Made up of two choc-a-bloc full stories, keep your eyes peeled for the perfect piece. On the second floor you’ll find affordably priced modern clothing and on the first floor you can shop for vintage threads. You can also take a break and have a bite to eat and a coffee while you’re there!
2015 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
3. Go on a walking tour
Taking a tour is a sure-fire way of getting to know a city. You’ll be in good hands with our amazing and passionate guides!
Free Old Montreal Walking Tour
This tour is an informative and enjoyable way to explore Montreal for a budget friendly fee. Explore the charming Old Port as you delve into the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and captivating architecture. On this tour you’ll be accompanied by one of our professionally trained guides that will, without a doubt, share their passion and extensive knowledge of the beautiful city of Montreal.
• 5$ booking fee
• The tour is 2 hours and 15 minutes led by a certified guide
• To book : https://www.freemontrealtours.com/
Street Art Walking Tour on the Plateau
Embark on a guided stroll through one of Montreal’s iconic neighborhoods, the Plateau Mont-Royal. Explore the stories behind the stunning murals that surround you and follow charming hidden paths. This tour promises unique insights into Montreal’s history and evolution into a street art haven.
• 39,95 CAD + tx and fees
• The tour is 2 hours and 15 minutes led by a certified guide
• To book : https://www.freemontrealtours.com/street-art-walking-tour/
2. Warm up with a hot cup of coffee or cocoa
Coffee culture is big in Montreal, so there’s always a new cafe waiting to be discovered around every corner.
Located in the former Royal Bank of Canada, this café stands out! The early 1900’s architecture makes for a dreamy spot to sit down and sip on a warm latte. This innovative café also offers work spaces that make for a perfect study spot. The Crew Collective & Café is the first stop on our Old Montréal Food Tour where the participants get to taste a classic Montreal bagel with smoked salmon.
This Greek infused café has a real homey vibe to it. The owners Tony and Tom Argiropoulos roast their own beans so quality is at the forefront of every cup served. Try out the greek specialty espresso freddo that people have been raving about. And while you’re in the neighborhood, why not grab a famous doughnut at Bernie Beigne right in front!
And more!
If you’re in Little Italy, love eclectic decor, and crave the coziness of your friend’s living room (and some nachos) – try Le Cagibi. Meanwhile, Cafe Myriade has a couple locations both downtown and in the Plateau, bringing its reliably good coffee to you when you need it most. For even more ideas of sweet spots to warm up check out our ultimate guide to the best Montreal cafes.
1. Visit the Mont Royal
If you’re up for an adventure, slip into a couple of warm layers and head for the Mont Royal. Amongst the trees, you can take in snow covered views of Montreal’s city center. The adored Mont Royal Park offers a variety of activities such as snowshoeing, inner tubing, skating, hiking, cross-country skiing and bird-watching! You can rent skates, cross-country skis and snowshoes on site. After the winter fun, you can stop at the Smith House for a warm coffee. For more info on equipment rental and site trails click here!
Bonus: Winter things to do in Montreal : check out Montreal’s wine bar scene
With a love of wine bars sweeping the city, locals’ palettes have become as refined as a sommelier’s… and here’s the intel: natural wines are the hot new thing. Check out these amazing bars and restaurants for plentiful wine options, including chemical-free indulgences, and delicious dinners to boot.
First of all, a new venture from the team behind Joe Beef, but without the attitude. The menu is modest and focuses on flavour instead of presentation, but the wine list, full of delicious natural wines, is really what has people’s hearts. The don’t take reservations so come early in the evening, and you’ll have the best chance of skipping the line.
This new Mile End bar offers a small but carefully selected wine selection. You can also enjoy simple tapas style bites. The vibes are casual and far from pretentious. So if you’re looking for a more chill and intimate wine bar where you can shoot pool, this is definitely the spot.
5350 Saint-Laurent Boulevard – Mile End
This Nordic wine bar in Petite-Patrie is anything but cold. The space is colourful and eclectic, with a 50s diner flair, and a dark green ceiling for that cozy wine drunk feeling. Vinvinvin specializes in wines from central and northern Europe, categorized by their palate, like dry, punk, or tarantino (actual categories on their menu!). Share some artfully plated food while you’re here, like the fried oysters and calamari, or a financier with pair and sunflower to satisfy that sweet tooth. There’s no better way to bring colour to your cheeks this winter than by sipping on some incredible northern wines and enjoying the inviting atmosphere!
290 Beaubien East
This wine bar is located in the heart of the Plateau, Montreal’s most party-friendly area. They have an expansive list of international wines as well as, beer, cocktails, and delicious food. There’s something for everyone at this vibrant joint.
Alma is a fresh new Outremont wine bar that’s destined to be a go-to for any occasion. Serving expertly selected Catalonian wines, seafood, local vegetables and fresh pasta, Alma’s terrace will surely be a hot spot this summer.
Immaculately designed and stylish, Bar St-Denis is a brand new venture that’s made its home in Petite Patrie. By combining the culinary finesse of a fine dining restaurant and the vibrant ambiance of a neighbourhood bar, it’s sure to be a staple of the wine scene for years to come.
This vibrant and eclectic space is also located in the heart of the Plateau, right on its main artery – Saint Laurent Boulevard. Majestique is known for its seafood dishes, oysters, and a specialty hot dog that’s a foot long. Stop by any night of the week for a festive atmosphere and great wines.