Montreal in the Winter!
 

Hi there- I was wondering if anyone had any advice on things to do/see in Montreal in the winter. I'm going with a friend for Christmas and New Years for about a week. We're into museums, cheap places to eat/drink, historical sites and just pretty places to walk around so if you have any ideas we would appreciate it. Also, we're from Florida so we are preparing to become popsicles :( Thanks so much in advance!!!

If you're in MTL you might as well visit Ottawa (1.5 hour drive). Here, you can skate on the longest skating rink in the world... 13km. :) But be prepared for ass-hurting coldness.

Bonjour catloaf ! :p I have limited time to answer, so I'll give links to threads concerning Montreal. You'll find a handful of tips, including where to eat for less $.

http://www.travelpunk.com/boards/showthread.php?t=13220

http://www.travelpunk.com/boards/showthread.php?t=3971

http://www.travelpunk.com/boards/showthread.php?t=9117

Depending on your luck, the weather will range from 5 to -10 celsius, with or without snow, so be ready !

You should have a great time, Montreal is a busy but laid back city. You say you like just walking around. I'd suggest to wander from the touristy places. Visit quarters such as the Quartier Latin, Mont-Royal, Westmount and Outremont.

Language isn't an issue, so don't fear the french part of the city ! If you stick to the old town and Crescent street, as do most english speaking tourists, you'll never get the feel of the true Montreal.

^ Ah thanks! How hot does it get there in the late summer? Still shorts & T-shirt weather?

And what if you don't speak ANY French? No problemos?

Most ppl in Montreal save for the far east part speak both English and French. Even if you speak French, if they detect an Anglo accent they will speak to you in English.

The museum of contemprary art (not sure of it's official name) is by donation. I always enjoy contemporary art so I go there. They've got an exhibition right now and John Lennon and Yoko Ono's bed-in that happened in Montreal. Worth seeing =)

Molly

Depends on your luck. Averages range from 15C-25C, but it can get a lot hotter as colder. :huh: Evenings usually get chilly, around 10C-15C so bring a warm jacket or sweater with you.

Around half of the population on Montreal use english on a daily basis, at home, school or work, the rest learned it well enough to hold a basic discussion. As mollymore said, only the far east part has less bilingual people, but anyway there's nothing for you there.

So, you will have NO problem whatsoever, relax and enjoy the city and its people.

And please, do go for a walk in the french parts. :)

Montreal in the winter is fantastic though come prepared with warm clothes. Anywhere north of the 49th parallel is cold! I would recommend staying around the Quartier Latin (St.Denis street and St.Laurent). There are a lot of things to see and do in that area. Also, bring a pair of skates (or rent) and try skating at the Old Port.

Cheers