Laura Osborne

MISE À JOUR octobre 2025 : Montréal regorge d’activités incroyables et gratuites en ce moment. Que vous soyez à la recherche des nouveaux restaurants, ou simplement des meilleures activités pour toute la famille, cette liste est faite pour vous. Ce tour d'horizon incontournable des incontournables de Montréal est votre liste de choses à faire, que vous soyez touriste ou local : des meilleurs restaurants aux musées les plus éblouissants - il rassemble les activités les plus remarquables dans l'une des meilleures villes du monde. Trouver de quoi faire à Montréal n'a jamais été plus facile. RECOMMANDÉ : Le guide complet des meilleures activités gratuites à faire à MontréalLes meilleures choses à faire avec des enfants à Montréal50 meilleurs restaurants de Montréal  

For the past eight years, we’ve made it our mission to scope out the coolest pockets of the world’s greatest cities in order to create our definitive annual ranking. The places where stuff like nightlife, art, culture, and affordable food and drink can be found on every corner and down every backstreet. Where diversity is championed and independent businesses thrive, from old-school boltholes to the newest avant-garde art space. Put simply, the world’s coolest neighbourhoods are places that represent the soul of our cities, while maintaining their own unique local character that draws people in to live, work and play. So, what are the neighbourhoods that fit the bill this year? To find out, we asked our network of writers and editors across a breadth of cities to nominate the vibiest district in their hometown right now. We then ranked every neighbourhood against criteria including culture, community, liveability, nightlife, food and drink, street life and that hard-to-define sense of ‘nowness’.  On our list this year, you’ll find everything from homely, village-like enclaves with tight-knit communities to revitalised city-centre hubs and formerly dormant, industrial areas transformed into creative districts. Many are underrated spots that sit in the shadow of their commercialised counterparts; others have become unexpected culinary hotspots or magnets for the city’s artists, writers and activists. What they all have in common is a DIY spirit – and an unshakeable proclivity f

UPDATE, October 2025: Whether you're looking for one of the world's coolest neighbourhoods (hello, Plateau-Mont-Royal!) some of the best restaurants in North America (these 5 local spots made the coveted list), the most spectacular hikes in and around Montreal or where to find its most secret bars, this town is full of amazing and free things to do—especially during the fall. Explore one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world, the best cheap eats, where to find late-night eats or simply the best family-friendly activites. Time Out editors hit the streets of Montreal from one end of the city to the other looking for the coolest things to do, the most delicious places to eat and the most impressive events to see. Next step: we then pick only the very best things to do to make it to this list each month. This essential round-up of Montreal musts is your to-do list whether you're a tourist or a local: from the best bars and speakeasies to the most stellar free museums, this epic guide to Montreal rounds up the most outstanding things to do across the city. RECOMMENDED:Complete guide to the best restaurants in MontrealBest things to do with kids in MontrealBest attractions in MontrealBest Airbnbs in Montreal

Visiting Old Montreal is a one-stop-shop for some of the best things to do in this city, and walking through the neighbourhood alone is one of the city’s best attractions. The near-400-year history of the area reveals itself as you wander through its cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways, and shadows of its towering structures that once served as some of the most important facilities of the Port of Montreal. The distinct charm of this area can be chalked up to its charismatic architecture, ease of walkability and the diversity of bars, restaurants, museums and boutiques that line its streets in all directions. Any given walkthrough will help remind you that Montreal once stood as the economic heart of Canada, painting a beautiful portrait of the wealthy financial institutions once backed by Scottish and British merchants. There’s so much more than meets the eye: Here is a list of a few of the most fun and fascinating things to do in Old Montreal. RECOMMENDED: Complete guide to the best things to do in Montreal50 best restaurants in Montreal Best things to do with kids in Montreal

When you need little break from the city, it's time to hit the trails—this turquoise lake surrounded by fall colours and Montreal's secret gardens included. Hiking is the easiest thing to do in and around Montreal. There are fantastic park trails and beaches to be enjoyed within the city itself, and if you’re willing to drive, there are road trips from Montreal are easily done within a day or a weekend. Need the rest before your drive back? These accessible hikes range anywhere from 1 to 4 hours from the city (with a secret beach and hiking trails here if you're up for a road trip). RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in MontrealBest parks in MontrealBest road trips from Montreal

Montreal’s neighbourhoods each have their own vibe—together, they create the city’s eclectic charm. Explore the city’s best neighborhoods for locals, and essential places where visitors can stay—including Plateau-Mont-Royal, recently ranked one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world—right here in this guide. Montreal has a big presence when it comes to culture, community, and character—and if you need proof, just look at the sheer wealth of some of the best things to do in Montreal alongside stellar experiences in the city’s best restaurants and best bars. Better yet, we're home to one of the world's coolest streets. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Montreal50 best restaurants in Montreal right nowTop Montreal attractions for tourists and locals

Les meilleurs quartiers de la ville pour les locaux—et les endroits essentiels où les visiteurs peuvent séjourner—sont tous dans ce guide, y compris Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, récemment classé parmi les quartiers les plus cools du monde. Montréal est très présente lorsqu'il s'agit de culture, de communauté et de caractère - et si vous avez besoin d'une preuve, il suffit de regarder la richesse des festivals de Montréal, certaines des meilleures choses à faire à Montréal, ainsi que les expériences exceptionnelles dans les meilleurs bars et restaurants de la ville.  RECOMMANDÉ :Guide complet quoi faire à Montréal50 meilleurs restaurants à Montréal en ce moment59 meilleurs bars de Montréal

Bières locales, match diffusé sur grand écran, smash burgers primés, arcades, cocktails signature et ailes de poulet croustillantes… tentant, non? Retrouvez tout ça dans un immense espace réunissant certains des meilleurs chefs et restos de la ville sous un même toit, au Time Out Market Montréal. Niché à l’intérieur d’un de nos centres commerciaux préférés, le Centre Eaton de Montréal, c’est l’endroit ultime pour l’avant-match des Canadiens. Mais ne nous croyez pas sur parole, venez découvrir toute l’ambiance hockey ici. Où regarder le hockey au centre-ville? À partir du 8 octobre 2025, rendez-vous au Time Out Market Montréal pour profiter de la diffusion gratuite des matchs en direct, d’une excellente bouffe, de bons drinks et d’une ambiance parfaite pour les soirs de hockey. Pour plus d’infos sur le Time Out Market Montréal, cliquez ici. RECOMMANDÉ :Les meilleures choses à faire à Montreal maintenant50 meilleurs restaurants de Montréal

Local beers, the game on the big screen, award-winning smash burgers, arcades, killer cocktails, and crispy chicken wings—sound tempting? Find it all in a massive space featuring some of the city’s top chefs and restaurants under one roof at Time Out Market Montréal. Nestled inside one of our favourite shopping malls, the Montreal Eaton Centre, it’s the ultimate spot to hockey pre-game. But don't just take our word for it. Check out all the Habs vibes here. Where can I watch the Habs game downtown? Starting October 8, 2025, head to Time Out Market Montréal to watch free live-streaming of the games, great food, drinks, and a good game-night atmosphere. RECOMMENDED:Complete guide to the best restaurants in MontrealBest things to do with kids in MontrealBest attractions in Montreal

We all agree that Montreal is home to some of the best restaurants, bars and things to do, but it's also outrageously close to day trip hot spots in Ontario, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and (of course!) Québec—hot air balloon rides included. There's no shortage of quick getaway ideas, whether you want to camp by a lake, take in peak foliage, go hiking or spend the day at Quebec’s secret spot to see the most most breathtaking fall colours (or this secret beach with turquoise water that's worth the trip). RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in MontrealThe best Airbnb cabins near Montreal

Look no further than Montreal's spas for top-tier relaxation. The wide range of treatments available, from Turkish baths to Swedish massages, hydrotherapy circuits to acupuncture service, they’re a complete immersion in peaceful atmospheres that escape the sound and fury of daily life (read: the ultimate getaway). Paying a visit to any one of these institutions is a great way to disconnect anywhere from a few hours to a full day—not to mention one of the more romantic things to do in the city.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in MontrealYour guide to dating in MontrealBest weekend getaways from Montreal

Montreal is a playground for kids of all ages—especially during the winter. The city is full of attractions for young kids (and the young at heart), stellar free museums and excellent places to eat that are easy on the budget. Every borough has its own family-forward fun—not to mention the highest bungee jump in Canada—with easy access via public transportation (5 year-olds and under ride for free!).  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best free things to do in Montreal27 best Montreal attractions for tourists and locals10 best free museums in Montreal you need to check out

Montrealers have been worshipping at the altar of this family-run sandwicheria since it opened in 2018. The lip-smacking magic happens when southern Italian recipes that hail back three generations meet Philly-style hoagies bursting with homemade ingredients—right down to the house burrata, hand-cut chips and fresh basil picked from the garden. It only takes one bite to see why these sandwiches have a cult following. MENU Hot Sandwiches PorchettaAioli, provolone, porchetta, carmelized onions, hot peppers, eggplants, coleslaw Porchetta and RapiniSpicy mayo, provolone, porchetta, rapini Cutlet 2.0Mayo, bomba, chicken cutlet, provolone, pickles, giardiniera, lettuce, tomato, O.G. House Vinaigrette CutletMayo, provolone, chicken cutlet, hot peppers, eggplants, coleslaw MeatballBasil, oil, mozzarella, burrata meatballs, tomato sauce, parmesan, hot peppers Cheese SteakSteak, cheese blend, cherry peppers SausageAioli, provolone, sausage, hot peppers, eggplants, carmelized onions, coleslaw Sausage and PeppersSpicy mayo, provolone, roasted red peppers, carmelized onions, coleslaw Sausage and RapiniOlive oil, provolone, sausage, hot peppers, rapini Eggplant ParmBasil oil, burrata, fried eggplant, tomato sauce, parmesan, hot peppers Chicken ParmBasil oil, mozzarella, chicken cutlet, tomato sauce, parmesan, hot peppers, rapini Steak and PepperoniSteak, pepperoni, provolone, lettuce, OG sauce Cold Sandwiches Philly HoagieBalsamic reduction, olive oil, salami, capicollo, prosciutto, mortad

Montrealers have been worshipping at the altar of this family-run sandwicheria since it opened in 2018. The lip-smacking magic happens when southern Italian recipes that hail back three generations meet Philly-style hoagies bursting with homemade ingredients—right down to the house burrata, hand-cut chips and fresh basil picked from the garden. It only takes one bite to see why these sandwiches have a cult following. MENU Hot Sandwiches PorchettaAioli, Provolone, Porchetta, Caramelized Onions, Hot Peppers, Eggplants, Coleslaw Cutlet 2.0Mayo, Bomba, Chicken Cutlet, Provolone, Pickles, Giardiniera, Lettuce, Tomato, O.G. House Vinaigrette Chicken Parmesan and RapiniBasil Oil, Mozzarella, Chicken Cutlet, Tomato Sauce, Parmesan, Hot Peppers, Rapini Eggplant ParmesanBasil Oil, Burrata, Fried Eggplant, Tomato Sauce, Parmesan, Hot Peppers Cold Sandwiches Philly HoagieBalsamic Reduction, Olive Oil, Salami, Capicollo, Mortadella, Prosciutto, Mozzarella, Provolone, Hot Peppers, Marinated Eggplant, Lettuce, O.G. House Vinaigrette DiavoloAioli, Bomba, Giardiniera, Salami, Calabrese, Capicollo, Fontino, Provolone, Banana Peppers, Marinated Red Onions, Lettuce, Tomato, O.G. House Vinaigrette ClassicoOlive Oil, Pistachio Mortadella, Sliced Lemon, Burrata, Arugula CapreseBasil Oil, Arugula, Tomato, Burrata, Balsamic Reduction Salads Fennel and Arugula CaesarFennel, Arugula, Bacon, Croutons, Parmesan, Lemon, Caesar Vinaigrette House Salad(s)Mixed Lettuce, Cucumber, Red Onion, Tomato, Croutons

Move over, Orb. A new free public art installation has arrived in Downtown Montreal, and it’s heartwarming in a way you’ve never seen. Câlins et Confidences, an empathy-filled public art installation imagined and created by the artist Pony—and produced by LNDMRK—consists of four sculptures with a beautiful mission. Photograph: Calins et Confidences The four monumental works of Câlins et confidences each embody a fundamental emotion, designed as points of comfort in the heart of the city—each character symbolically opening their arms to those in need. Photograph: Calins et Confidences When is Câlins et Confidences running in Downtown Montreal? The free art installation runs until December 15, 2025. Photograph: Calins et Confidences Where can I find the Câlins et Confidences sculptures in downtown Montreal? Head over to the Montreal Eaton Centre, Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, Esplanade PVM at Place Ville Marie and Place Montréal Trust to meet Dandy, Anxiyeti, Kinzu, and Sponji—characters who all embody different emotions. Located on Sainte-Catherine Street in downtown Montreal, the Montreal Eaton Centre is the city’s premier shopping destination. Directly connected to the McGill metro station and the underground network, it welcomes nearly 30 million visitors annually. The Eaton Centre features Canada’s only Time Out Market Montréal, as well as Montreal’s first Uniqlo and Decathlon, alongside Sephora, Samsung, B2, Boss, Nike, Old Navy, Levi’s, and Aritzia. With nearly 125

I’m in the lobby of this boldly redesigned Downtown Montreal hotel, gazing up at a striking ceiling sculpture that captures the graceful motion of birds in mid-flight. In a daring collaboration with internationally acclaimed studio 2pir Design, Sofitel Montréal Golden Mile has emerged from a bold top-to-bottom transformation that redefines what French luxury means in 2025.  The result? A complete reimagining of the hotel experience, where heritage meets haute design with a touch of Parisian whimsy. Located in the heart of Downtown, a few blocks from the Montreal Eaton Centre, McGill University, some of the city's best museums and Time Out Market Montréal, the Sofitel Montréal Golden Mile sits at the base of Mont Royal—steps from Plateau Mont Royal (recently ranked one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world). Photograph: Laura Osborne | Time Out Drawing inspiration from the intimacy and elegance of a Parisian maison, the new interior spaces flow with quiet confidence, from the dramatic, sculptural foyer — anchored by a metallic ribbon wall and teal light installation — to greenhouse-inspired salons, art-filled living spaces, and intimate dining rooms designed for lingering.  Photograph: Laura Osborne | Time Out The experience begins in a statement-making lobby and foyer that sets the tone for the hotel’s new identity.  Photograph: Laura Osborne | Time Out Picture a sweeping metallic wall that catches the light like modern art, guiding guests into a serene Living Area

Attention Montrealers:  the entire face of October’s Harvest Moon will be lit up tonight and visible from Earth, and you won’t want to miss it. What time is the full moon on October 6th? The moon will rise at 5:44 p.m., but it won’t reach full illumination until 11:47 p.m.  This Harvest Moon is also the first Supermoon of 2026, with two more to follow on November 5 and December 4. Before moonrise, expect sunny skies with a high of 28°C, a humidex of 31, and a moderate UV index of 5.  A few showers are possible on Tuesday, but unseasonably warm and sunny weather will return for the rest of the week. Supermoons occur three to four times a year and always appear consecutively.  What is a Harvest Moon? The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the autumn equinox, which fell on September 22 this year. Historically, farmers relied on its light to harvest crops at the end of the growing season.  The equinox marks the start of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, when day and night are nearly equal as the sun sits directly above the Earth’s equator. This year, the Harvest Moon also coincides with the annual Draconid meteor shower, active from October 6 to 10.  Bright moonlight, however, will make it more difficult to see the meteors, which peak on October 8. RECOMMENDED:Complete guide to the best restaurants in MontrealBest things to do with kids in MontrealBest attractions in Montreal        

Ateliers pratiques de henné ? Performances de danse Bollywood ? Sessions de préparation de chai et de mélanges d’épices ?  Rendez-vous au Time Out Market Montréal et au Centre Eaton de Montréal pour découvrir toutes ces activités et bien d’autres expériences culturelles. Cette célébration sur deux jours sera haute en couleur et mettra en avant la musique, la danse, les saveurs et les traditions de l’Inde. RECOMMANDÉ : Une licorne rose géante débarque au centre-ville avec des cocktails gratuits Plongez dans une ambiance vibrante et accueillante avec des spectacles Bollywood, des ateliers pour toute la famille, des mascottes colorées à rencontrer, des activités interactives et une soirée DJ animée. Photograph: Maxence Bilodeau Dégustez un cocktail Aam Panna (rhum épicé Morbleu, liqueur amère, thé chaï, purée de mangue et gingembre, jus de citron frais) créé spécialement pour l’événement — ou sa version sans alcool (NOA rhum épicé sans alcool, NOA liqueur amère sans alcool, thé chaï, purée de mangue et gingembre, jus de citron frais). Photograph: Time Out Market Montréal | Aam Panna Bonus : la troupe montréalaise Veils of Bollywood apportera toute la magie et l’énergie de cette célébration culturelle unique avec des performances gratuites. Quand se déroulent les célébrations gratuites de Diwali ? Rendez-vous au Time Out Market Montréal et au Centre Eaton de Montréal les samedi 18 et dimanche 19 octobre 2025. Photograph: Maxence Bilodeau Horaires des célébrations de Diwali

Many spots across the province broke records for the hottest October day ever this weekend. As a series of wildfires flared up north of Montreal over the weekend, the smell of smoke drifting through the city, temperatures are forecasted to stay above average into next week after a bit of rain. Why is there a heat wave in October? Thanks to a strong ridge of high pressure over eastern North America, an exceptional and unprecedented heatwave swept across Quebec to end the weekend. RECOMMENDED: Montreal air quality alert: 18 active wildfires burning in Quebec With temperatures soaring up to 15 degrees above seasonal norms, Montreal-Trudeau International Airport soared to 29.9°C on Sunday, setting a new all-time October temperature record according to a report by The Weather Network. The previous high, recorded in October 2023, was 29.3°C. The heat wave is expected to continue on Monday with another round of record-breaking heat. A cold front is trying to make its way into the province, but the warmth is expected to stick around for a while. And it won’t be limited to southern Quebec. Photograph: Shutterstock / Golden Shrimp Temperatures are expected to exceed 29°C on Monday in Montreal, Gatineau, and Saguenay, with a record 28.8°C in Val-d’Or for October 5; highs of 29°C are forecast for Montreal and Gatineau, 27°C in Sherbrooke and Saguenay, and the heat will persist across Quebec on Tuesday. Temperatures could reach nearly 20°C in Kuujjuaq, which is exceptional for October.

If you woke up this morning in Montreal and thought you smelled smoke, you were right. As a series of wildfires flared up north of Montreal over the weekend, the smell of smoke drifted through the city. Is it smoky in Montreal right now? According to a report by CTV news, Montreal had an air quality index in the 50s, or “moderately bad” this morning. There have been a total of 417 fires in Quebec this year, helping to prompt the U.S. to hit Canada with a new travel advisory. Since the start of the protection season, 398 forest fires have impacted 1,091.7 hectares.  According to Quebec’s forest fire protection agency, SOPFEU, 18 wildfires are currently burning across the province, with six located near Saint-Jérôme and Saint-Sauveur — including one that ignited on Saturday. One fire that broke out Friday just west of Highway 25 is now classified as “being held.”  Another, which started Saturday southwest of Maniwaki and remains uncontained. The Ministry of Public Security will prohibit open-air fires in or near forested areas starting October 4 at 8:00 a.m., due to current conditions.  Where are the fire bans in Quebec? The decision made in collaboration with SOPFEU affects the following areas: ABITIBI-TÉMISCAMINGUE : Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, Abitibi-Ouest, Abitibi, La Vallée-de-l’Or. BAS-SAINT-LAURENT : Les Basques, Rivière-du-Loup, Témiscouata, Kamouraska. CAPITALE-NATIONALE : Charlevoix-Est, Charlevoix, L’Île-d’Orléans, La Côte-de-Beaupré, La Jacques-Cartier, Québec, P

Canada has updated its U.S. travel advisory, warning of increased scrutiny — particularly for LGBTQ+ travellers. On the heels of the news that Canadians will require fingerprinting in these European countries, the latest update on September 29, 2025, included new information on entry and exit requirements (such as passports, visas, and U.S. permanent residents) as well as revised details on laws and culture related to 2SLGBTQI+ travellers. What are the updated visa rules? According to the advisory, Canadians can usually stay in the U.S. for up to six months without a visa, but must declare their intended length of stay upon entry. For those who do require a visa, U.S. authorities may review previously issued visas, which can be revoked for reasons such as violations of admission terms or reassessments of eligibility, including past criminal convictions. While visas are generally not needed for stays under six months, Canadians and other foreign nationals planning to stay more than 30 days must register with the U.S. government. Failure to do so can lead to fines, penalties, or misdemeanor prosecution. Photograph: Shutterstock / Andy.LIU How does the update affect U.S. permanent residents? The advisory notes that permanent resident status can be revoked for reasons such as extended periods spent outside the U.S. or a reassessment of eligibility, including past criminal convictions. Canadians who hold U.S. permanent resident status must present a valid green card when enterin

UPDATE, October 4: The current strike, which has lasted two weeks, is set to end on Sunday, October 5. According to a report in La Presse, Labour Minister Jean Boulet announced that talks are scheduled to resume on Monday, and could not say whether new strikes would be called as it is up to the union to announce. Attention, Montreal commuters. According to a report by the Montreal Gazette, the union representing Montreal transit maintenance workers has warned that additional strike days could be added, accusing the STM of failing to negotiate in good faith.  How long will the STM strike last? Currently the STM strike is taking place until October 5, 2025. The report detailed that the union can call four more strike days between now and October 3 unless an agreement is reached.  Discussions with a mediator are ongoing, but no arbitrator has been appointed yet. The dispute centers on subcontracting, atypical schedules, and wages, with subcontracting remaining the main sticking point. The STM is offering a 12.5% wage increase over five years with an inflation adjustment, while the union seeks about 25% over five years plus bonuses.  Photograph: William Daigneault / Unsplash What is the STM strike schedule and service changes? If no agreement is reached, strike days and reduced service will continue on: September 26, September 29, October 1, and October 3, 2025. Time Out Tip: Shuttle service for the Alouettes on September 26 will be maintained from 4:30 to 6:00 pm. After 6 p.m.

MISE À JOUR – 4 octobre : La grève actuelle, qui dure depuis deux semaines, doit prendre fin le dimanche 5 octobre. Selon un reportage de La Presse, le ministre du Travail, Jean Boulet, a annoncé que les négociations devraient reprendre lundi. Il n’a toutefois pas pu préciser si de nouvelles grèves seraient déclenchées, soulignant que cette décision revient au syndicat. Tout juste sortie de la grève de cet été, la Société de transport de Montréal (STM) fait face à une nouvelle grève. La STM prévoit de réduire le service pendant une grève de ses travailleurs de la maintenance, ce qui signifie que les usagers devront composer avec d’importantes coupures en dehors des heures de pointe. Le service réduit restera en vigueur jusqu’au 5 octobre, sauf si un accord est conclu avant cette date.  Quand aura lieu la grève de la STM ? À partir du 22 septembre 2025, le service du métro sera réduit. Comment se déplacer pendant la grève de la STM ? Les lundis, mercredis et vendredis, le métro ne circulera que pendant trois plages horaires : 6 h 30 à 9 h 30 14 h 45 à 17 h 45 23 h 00 jusqu’aux derniers trains (vers 1 h 15) Les horaires des derniers trains sont affichés en station et disponibles en ligne ici. Aucune circulation du métro n’est prévue entre ces périodes. Les mardis, jeudis, samedis et dimanches, le métro circulera selon l’horaire régulier. Le service d’autobus fonctionnera de 6 h 15 à 9 h 15, de 15 h à 18 h et de 23 h 15 à 1 h 15. Photograph: Shutterstock / NorthWerk Photograp

UPDATE, October 4: The interactive map follows the changes in Quebec's fall foliage colours so you won't miss any of the show. The next update is scheduled for October 9, 2025. Fall colours have officially arrived! From apple picking and pumpkin patches to corn mazes and strolls through bustling farmers’ markets, the city is packed with amazing autumn activities—and views—to enjoy. Where to see fall colours in and around Montreal? The local foliage map monitors the changing colours across the province, indicating when the peak is expected in your specific area.  Time Out Tip: the Bonjour Québec fall foliage map's next update is October 9, 2025. To check out peak foliage, or follow the evolution of colours, check out the interactive map where you can see the status of fall colours in Québec (and where to admire them). Favourite viewing spots include Mount Royal Park, where you’ll find sweeping city views from the lookouts and vibrant reflections on Beaver Lake.  Photograph: Tourisme Montréal, Susan Moss For a more curated experience, the Montreal Botanical Garden is stunning—especially in the evenings during the Gardens of Light. You can also head to Parc Jean-Drapeau’s islands, perfect for a walk or bike ride surrounded by brilliant autumn foliage. Photograph: Richard Cavalleri / Shutterstock Looking for spots outside the city? Check out these hikes and getaway ideas that include rustic fall experiences, hikes and festivals. Photograph: © Sépaq   When can you see the f

Hands-on henna workshops? Bollywood dance performances? Chai and spice-blending sessions?  Head to Time Out Market Montréal and the Montreal Eaton Centre for all of these things— and plenty more cultural fun. The two-day celebration will be jam-packed with colour, music, dance, flavours, and traditions from India. Immerse yourself in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere with Bollywood performances, family-friendly workshops, colourful mascot meet-and-greets, interactive activities, and a lively DJ night.  Photograph: Maxence Bilodeau Sip on an Aam Panna cocktail (Spiced Morbleu Rum, bitter liqueur, chai tea, mango and ginger purée, fresh lemon juice) created especially for this event—or its zero-alcohol version (NOA Non-Alcoholic Spiced Rum, NOA Non-Alcoholic Bitter Liqueur, chai tea, mango and ginger purée, fresh lemon juice). Photograph: Time Out Market Montréal | Aam Panna Bonus: Montreal’s own Veils of Bollywood troupe will bring the magic and energy of this unique cultural celebration to life with free performances. When are the free Diwali celebrations? Head to Time Out Market Montréal and the Montreal Eaton Centre on Saturday, October 18, and Sunday, October 19, 2025. Photograph: Maxence Bilodeau What time are the Diwali celebrations? Saturday, October 18  1:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Bollywood dance performance (Sainte-Catherine level, in front of the Samsung store) 1:15 PM – 1:30 PM: Mascot meet-and-greet & photo ops (Sainte-Catherine level, Time Out Market Montréal, and in f

Who does it better, Montreal or Toronto? Both cities are unique and jam-packed with amazing things to do, but it’s official: Montreal ranked higher than Toronto when it comes to its cool factor. Plateau-Mont-Royal and its Mile End enclave was ranked number 22 on the coveted list, surpassing Toronto’s Davenport neighbourhood which came in at number 26.  Photograph: Eva Blue Sure. Bordering buzzy Geary Avenue, Davenport is a bona fide creative hotspot packed with patios, bakery-cafés, craft breweries and underground nightlife. Anchored by acclaimed restaurant General Public, it’s also a growing hub for art and design, with spaces like Casson Hardware, All Ours Studios and Uma Nota Culture’s Geary Art Crawl. Photograph: Jen Agg / General Public But when it comes to the coolest neighbourhood in Canada? Plateau-Mont-Royal’s sense of “nowness” just can’t be beat. Photograph: Alex Lesage | Le Violon Home to this new spot boasting the best sushi in Canada (and the restaurant Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau made uber-famous—just weeks before it made North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list), Plateau-Mont-Royal is Montréal’s hub for cafés, izakayas, nightlife, and block parties.  Photograph: Eva Blue | Mural Paix et Justice by Shepard Fairey | Tourisme Montréal And we haven't even talked about the parks and greenspaces. Photograph: Bertrand Exertier | Tourisme Montréal Artists, musicians, and celebrities frequent its bars and restaurants—and flock to the streets to take in the