From the old port up to the mountain in a park, Montreal’s historic center is rich in beauty and bustling with activity.

Nowhere is Montreal’s diverse appeal clearer than in Ville-Marie. From the historic river port, once the city’s lifeblood, to the ultra-modern shops and cultural institutions downtown, Montreal’s rich dynamics of past and present are displayed in this lively central district. While visiting Ville-Marie be sure to stroll through Mount Royal Park and look out from the little mountain before heading into the throng of the city.

Begin at the Old Port of Montreal, a recreational area along the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Discover local history with a walking tour. In summertime, relax on a deckchair at Clock Tower Beach.

Looking out across the mighty river, admire the architectural ingenuity of Habitat 67. This futuristic housing development is on an artificial peninsula that links Old Montreal to Saint Helen’s Island. Journey out to the island on public transportation to discover the sprawling greenery of Parc Jean-Drapeau, the amusement park La Ronde and the beloved Biosphère environment museum.

Shop at downtown’s historic Eaton Centre mall or at the spacious Complexe Desjardins. Savor the calm and beauty of the Christ Church Cathedral, a neo-Gothic wonder in the heart of Montreal’s bustling downtown.

Make a trip to the Bell Centre to watch a Montreal Canadiens hockey game or a show by global celebrities such as Beyoncé, Aerosmith or Québec’s favorite daughter, Céline Dion.

Central Montreal is filled with museums, galleries and venues. Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts to see exhibitions of contemporary art, classic works by international greats such as Rembrandt and Matisse and a pavilion dedicated to the cultural heritage of Québec and Canada.

In the Quartier des Spectacles entertainment district, explore the cutting-edge Museum of Contemporary Art or view a live show at the St. Denis Theatre, home to the legendary comedy festival, Just for Laughs.

Ville-Marie is located in central Montreal and easily navigable by foot, bus or metro. Travel by car from the airport in 40 minutes or 1 hour by bus.