What's the cultural scene like in your city?
To identify the current best cities for art and culture, we posed this question to over 21,000 urban residents worldwide—and the results are out.
On the heels of the announcement that Montreal is the home to one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world, it should come as a surprise to no one that Montreal ranked high on the list of best cities for culture in the world right now.
Each city featured in this list has earned its spot through a thorough curation process.
Residents were surveyed about their city's premier cultural venues and experiences, and they also provided ratings for their city's cultural offerings based on both quality and affordability.
Of course, affordability is subjective: what's considered inexpensive for locals in one city might not be the same for those in another. But when it comes to things like free museum admission—with some featuring at least four exhibitions highlighting Indigenous history and contemporary art in this year’s cultural calendar—immersive exhibitions at our famous galleries that allow you to travel back in time, or mind-blowing free outdoor festivals, Montreal can't be beat.
No matter what time of year, there's always something going on in Montreal. Whether its the world's biggest jazz festival, free circus-themed and musical performances or complimentary immersive yoga classes, summer in Montreal is back-to-back festivals.
During the winter, between a gigantic free skating rink in the heart of the city and free family-friendly drag brunch happenings, your cultural bucket list is always full.
From the best Christmas lights to the biggest downtown Christmas market, Montreal also goes all out during the winter. One of the best things to do this season is to check out Luminothérapie—original and interactive free winter experiences in the form of large light-and-sound installations designed specifically for public spaces.
The 14th edition of Luminothérapie starts on November 30 and will continue until March 10, 2024, and Montrealers, visitors and downtown residents will be able to admire the majestic and colourful installations all along Sainte-Catherine Street daily from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
And we haven't even talked about our parades! Montreal’s Pride Festival is the largest LGBTQ+ gathering in the Francophone world. In addition to the city’s welcoming LGBTQ+ hangouts, Montreal puts on a star-studded show.
And at the end of November, the annual Santa Claus parade spreads holiday magic throughout the downtown core.
Best place to warm up downtown? Head to Time Out Market Montréal for a hot chocolate, glass of wine or a meal from one of the best chefs and restaurants in the city under one roof.
RECOMMENDED:
Full guide to the best things to do in Montreal
Complete guide to the best restaurants in Montreal
Best things to do with kids in Montreal