Montreal Old City - Orlando / Florida Guide

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Montreal is one of the few major North American cities to have preserved its historic centre.

You will discover in the historic district, once a walled city, narrow winding streets dating back to the French colony, superb public squares, beautiful Victorian buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, and finally, the very first skyscrapers in Canada, at the heart of what was then the Downtown of the Country’s metropolis, quaint sidewalks cafes, restaurants among the best in the city and trendy bars. You’ll find all these just a few steps from the shores of St. Lawrence River and in a unique atmosphere.

Montreal was established on May 17, 1642, 173 years ago. With a handful of settlers, soldiers, artisans and farmers, Maisonneuve and Jeanne Mance, established on the Pointe a Galliere the small settlement of Ville-Marie, which became Montreal. Their goal was to start a mission centre.

Visitors are often surprised by the exceptional animation of Old Montreal, always lively, day and night, and in all seasons. This is because, in addition to welcoming millions of visitors each year, the historic district is also, for Montrealers, a neighbourhood where they live, work and enjoys themselves.

Old Montreal has nearly 500 shops and more than 1, 500 business offices. More than 40, 000 people go to work there every day. It is also a much sought-after residential area, and the number of residents now reaches 6, 000 people.

Famous boutique hotels, signature restaurants, trendy bars. . . Old Montreal is a must-see destination for visitors and tourists. Thanks to its speciality shops, art galleries, and boutique-workshops featuring Quebec designers, the area offers a fascinating and exclusive shopping experience.

Some of the Heritage attractions are Montreal’s birthplace. You won't find large, chain hotels in Old Montreal. Most accommodation is boutique hotels. Visitors may find better bargains at a downtown Montreal hotel, which will be just a walk or short cab ride away.

There' s no shortage of cafés and restaurants in Old Montreal but beware the tourist traps. Galleries, boutiques and art, jewellery, houseware, and gourmet shops are abundant in Old Montreal. There are some tourist shops crammed with trinkets, but even those, at least, are set in beautiful, historic buildings.

Montreal winters are long and cold, so from after Christmas until May, Old Montreal is quiet. In fact, some restaurants and businesses shut down for winter. This low period results in lots of travel bargains. Warmer months, especially July when many popular festivals occur, are definitely the preferred but more expensive time to travel.

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Page added on: 18 May 2019
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