Montreal summers: 5 ways to relax and recharge
Sometimes the simplest days are the most memorable. When life gets busy we often forget to take a step back and enjoy the small joys around us. With its big green spaces, beautiful waterfront, and endless free events, Montreal is a city made for fun at any pace. Whether you’re in Montreal to work, study, or travel, take some time to clear your schedule and wander the city. There’s no better way to relax, recharge, and soak up the culture and places around you.
Bike along the Lachine Canal
Montreal has a network of bike paths running across the city making it easy to explore on two wheels. A favourite among Montrealers is the path along the Lachine Canal, running from the Old Port to the Atwater Market. Away from cars and traffic, this pathway is a chance to enjoy the sun and the waterfront at your own pace. For a hassle-free day, make use of the Bixi bike stations all over the city.
Photo credit: TravelWritersMagazine.com
Chill out on a terrace
As the days get warmer and the evenings longer, Montreal’s storefronts transform. Street-level restaurants and bars open up their sidewalk patios while those higher up in buildings welcome guests to sit on beautiful rooftop terraces. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon coffee or dinner with friends, there’s nothing better than enjoying your time in the open air. From the waterfront, to downtown, to the Mile-End - choose an area and take a stroll for your pick of patios.
Photo credit: en.terrassesbonsecours.com
Enjoy a picnic in Parc LaFontaine
On weekends and warm summer evenings, Montrealers flock to LaFontaine Park. With a large pond, fountain, and endless green space - you're free to run, take a canoe ride, or simply sit in the grass with a good book. With your lunch or coffee in hand, stroll through the park’s paths and settle by the water for a picturesque picnic. You’ll likely see musicians and artists taking advantage of the outdoors inspiration. If Parc LaFontaine peaks your interest, there are plenty more parks to explore. Another favourite is the famous Parc Mont-Royal for a climb up the mountain and beautiful view of the city.
Photo credit: MTLBlog.com
Relax to (free) outdoor jazz
There’s no better place than Montreal for summer festivals, with everything from Just for Laughs comedy to Fringe theatre. Perhaps the biggest of these is Montreal’s Jazz Festival; a week and a half in July featuring music, entertainers, and plenty of food. With multiple stages positioned around Place des Arts, wander around and enjoy some of the best music in the world (all for free!). It’s no surprise that music lovers travel to Montreal just for this festival. Spend a day (or several days) taking in the music and the lively atmosphere that comes with it.
Photo credit: livingnomads.com
Treat your taste buds at Jean-Talon market
Arguably North America’s largest public market, the summertime brings almost 300 vendors to Jean-Talon. You’ll find everything your foodie heart desires, including specialty spices, wines, cheese, fish, and locally-grown produced. Nothing beats a morning stroll through the market with a coffee in hand. With plenty to treat your eyes and taste buds, you could spend hours wandering up and down the aisles. Whether your looking to stock up for your weekly supply of groceries or a special ingredient, there’s plenty to explore and discover.
Photocredit: montrealvisitorsguide.com
