From zip-lining and cycling to museums and art exhibitions, there is much to do on a Montreal Canada family vacation. It is an exciting alternative to the typical family vacation destination.
As a team of travel experts, Canadian Train Vacations have helped many travellers plan their trips to Montreal. It is an ideal spot for unforgettable family vacations. When planning family vacations in Montreal, there are a few things to keep in mind.
One of the best ways to travel to Montreal is by train. You can soak in the sights of the city and its surrounding areas. VIA Rail offers service to other major cities, including Quebec Toronto and Ottawa.
Montreal Central Station is in the heart of downtown Montreal. It is accessible via public transportation services such as the Montreal Metro and the Montreal bus system. The nearest metro station is Place-des-Arts, just a few minutes walk away. You can also take the Metrobus or STM bus lines to get to the station. It is the second-busiest train service in Canada, after Toronto Union Station. About 11 million people visit it every year.
Located in central Montreal, the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel is a well-known establishment. It is often regarded as the best hotel in the city. This hotel offers its guests unmatched comfort and service. The hotel's location, luxurious guestrooms, and high-end facilities make for a great stay. It has been a significant landmark in Montreal for over six decades and has hosted major events, exhibitions, and concerts.
You can reach the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel via taxis and public transport. It is across the street from the train station. Depending on the traffic, a cab ride from the airport takes 30 to 60 minutes.
# Travel Tip: Explore the underground city
This underground pedestrian network links together metro stations, plazas shops, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place for the family to explore if it’s too hot or cold outside!
Samantha EdwardsTravel Writer and Content Coordinator
Montreal's Notre Dame Basilica is an architectural marvel. It is famous for its spectacular stained-glass windows. The average annual number of visitors to Notre Dame is over 13 million per year. Visiting this place is a must-do on a family vacation.
Zip and Climb is a thrilling, one-of-a-kind adventure park. It allows guests to witness the historic and scenic Old Port of Montreal from a fresh angle. Zip-lining, scavenger hunts, rope courses, and wall climbing are some of the exciting activities to do with your family.
The Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History is a great place for anyone interested in Montreal's past. It offers a window into the city's culture. The interactive displays hosted by the museum are sure to amaze you! History aficionados can find a wealth of resources at the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History.
The Montreal Biodome is a unique indoor park that allows visitors to explore and learn about the different ecosystems. The Montreal Biodome educates visitors about local wildlife and international ecosystems through its interactive displays and special exhibition. Nature lovers are definitely in for a real treat here. The Biodone welcomes around 1.5 million visitors every year.
Average time spent here: On average, visitors can expect to spend about 2 to 3 hours at the Biodome.
The Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium in Montreal, Canada, is a state-of-the-art center for learning about the universe. From observatories for witnessing the night sky to space-themed films, every element of this planetarium will leave you and your family awe-struck. This a must-visit place if science and technology, and astronomy excite you.
# Travel Tip: Attend Cirque du Soleil
If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to catch a Cirque du Soleil performance. It’s a mesmerizing show of acrobatics, music, and theater – great for all ages.
Hannah Poaros-McDermottTravel Writer and Senior Content Coordinator
Montreal is an exciting metropolis with a long history of cultural achievements, and it hosts many events and festivals that honour the city's many ethnic and cultural groups. You can witness a blend of fun, music and fireworks that will make your vacations more exciting and vibrant. For families looking to expose their children to new cultures and traditions, these festivals offer great Montreal vacation ideas. Most festivals typically occur on weekends or in the summer.
Cyclists can enjoy a beautiful and demanding ride through the park of Mount Royal in the centre of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The park's beautiful splendour and various routes and paths make it a wonderful area for families, friends, and solo cyclists to enjoy nature.
The park's breathtaking views mean it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
Visitors can take a bus or the metro or even walk to Mount Royal from the downtown area.
Taking a St. Lawrence River sightseeing cruise is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the river and the surrounding landscape and learn about the region's rich history and culture. Montreal's history, economy, and culture are all deeply entwined with the St. Lawrence River because of its significance as a significant waterway in North America. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day trip or an adventurous excursion, a St. Lawrence River sightseeing cruise is a great choice for a vacation activity.
Montreal is home to La Ronde Six Flags, an amusement park with rides and attractions suitable for thrill seekers of all ages. This place offers everything from family-friendly activities and special events to tempting food and beverages. La Ronde has more than 40 rides and attractions, such as roller coasters, a log flume, a Ferris wheel, and more. It's the perfect activity during a Montreal family vacation. On average, it sees 1.2 million tourists per year.
The rich history and vibrant culture of Quebec, Canada, informs French-Canadian cooking, a culinary delight. The cuisine is a reflection of the history and legacy of the French Canadian people. Although it originates in classical French cooking, it has developed over time to combine ingredients and techniques from various cultures, such as the Indigenous and the Acadians. Do take time on a Montreal vacation to try various local restaurants and treats. While the kids might not appreciate the fine-dining options, top things to taste on a family vacation in Montreal are poutine, tourtiere and maple syrup treats.
Every year, travellers worldwide discover that Montreal is a beautiful family vacation place. The Montreal, Canada family vacation has many things to offer families, including historical sites and amusement parks.
Six days is enough time for family vacations in Montreal, Canada. With a few side excursions, you can experience the nature parks near Montreal and the remarkable landmarks of Quebec City.
Montreal is celebrated for its European-like charm, amazing food scene, diverse cultures, hockey team, and its many cultural attractions, such as Old Montreal and Notre Dame. It is also home to the famous Cirque du Soleil.
Useful Links
Train Trip FinderWhere to go in CanadaJourneys Across CanadaCanadian Rockies and West CoastEastern Canada and The MaritimesCanadian North and ArcticSummer Train TripsWinter Train TripsFall Color Train TripsTours for SeniorsRoad Trips and Self DrivesFamily AdventuresVacations for Active SeniorsHistory and Culture TripsWildlife Viewing TripsExplore Canada
The Canadian TrainTrain Across CanadaCanadian Sleeper TrainLuxury Trains Across CanadaVIA Rail VacationsRocky Mountaineer Train ToursCanadian Rockies Train ToursTrain Tours for SeniorsCanadian Pacific RailwayBest Train Trips in CanadaNational Park Train ToursTrain Tours from VancouverCanadian Snow TrainAlaska Cruise and Train ToursCanadian East Coast Train ToursCanadian West Coast Train ToursPopular Train Trips
Vancouver to Toronto Train JourneyAcross Canada by TrainComplete Canadian Rockies by TrainCanadian Cross-Country JourneyClassic Eastern Canada by TrainTrans Canada Rainforest RouteCanadian Rockies Voyage by TrainCanada Coast to Coast by TrainRockies Winter Wonderland by TrainDiscover Whistler and the Canadian Rockies by TrainMontreal and Quebec City Getaway by TrainCanadian Cross-Country Journey in WinterLords of the Wilderness Bear ViewingTrans Canada by Train in WinterEssential Rockies with Alaska CruiseCanadian Train Vacations
© 2025 Fresh Tracks Canada
As a team of travel experts, Canadian Train Vacations have helped many travellers plan their trips to Montreal. It is an ideal spot for unforgettable family vacations. When planning family vacations in Montreal, there are a few things to keep in mind.
One of the best ways to travel to Montreal is by train. You can soak in the sights of the city and its surrounding areas. VIA Rail offers service to other major cities, including Quebec Toronto and Ottawa.
Montreal Central Station is in the heart of downtown Montreal. It is accessible via public transportation services such as the Montreal Metro and the Montreal bus system. The nearest metro station is Place-des-Arts, just a few minutes walk away. You can also take the Metrobus or STM bus lines to get to the station. It is the second-busiest train service in Canada, after Toronto Union Station. About 11 million people visit it every year.
Located in central Montreal, the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel is a well-known establishment. It is often regarded as the best hotel in the city. This hotel offers its guests unmatched comfort and service. The hotel's location, luxurious guestrooms, and high-end facilities make for a great stay. It has been a significant landmark in Montreal for over six decades and has hosted major events, exhibitions, and concerts.
You can reach the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel via taxis and public transport. It is across the street from the train station. Depending on the traffic, a cab ride from the airport takes 30 to 60 minutes.
# Travel Tip: Explore the underground city
This underground pedestrian network links together metro stations, plazas shops, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place for the family to explore if it’s too hot or cold outside!
Samantha EdwardsTravel Writer and Content Coordinator
Montreal's Notre Dame Basilica is an architectural marvel. It is famous for its spectacular stained-glass windows. The average annual number of visitors to Notre Dame is over 13 million per year. Visiting this place is a must-do on a family vacation.
Zip and Climb is a thrilling, one-of-a-kind adventure park. It allows guests to witness the historic and scenic Old Port of Montreal from a fresh angle. Zip-lining, scavenger hunts, rope courses, and wall climbing are some of the exciting activities to do with your family.
The Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History is a great place for anyone interested in Montreal's past. It offers a window into the city's culture. The interactive displays hosted by the museum are sure to amaze you! History aficionados can find a wealth of resources at the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History.
The Montreal Biodome is a unique indoor park that allows visitors to explore and learn about the different ecosystems. The Montreal Biodome educates visitors about local wildlife and international ecosystems through its interactive displays and special exhibition. Nature lovers are definitely in for a real treat here. The Biodone welcomes around 1.5 million visitors every year.
Average time spent here: On average, visitors can expect to spend about 2 to 3 hours at the Biodome.
The Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium in Montreal, Canada, is a state-of-the-art center for learning about the universe. From observatories for witnessing the night sky to space-themed films, every element of this planetarium will leave you and your family awe-struck. This a must-visit place if science and technology, and astronomy excite you.
# Travel Tip: Attend Cirque du Soleil
If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to catch a Cirque du Soleil performance. It’s a mesmerizing show of acrobatics, music, and theater – great for all ages.
Hannah Poaros-McDermottTravel Writer and Senior Content Coordinator
Montreal is an exciting metropolis with a long history of cultural achievements, and it hosts many events and festivals that honour the city's many ethnic and cultural groups. You can witness a blend of fun, music and fireworks that will make your vacations more exciting and vibrant. For families looking to expose their children to new cultures and traditions, these festivals offer great Montreal vacation ideas. Most festivals typically occur on weekends or in the summer.
Cyclists can enjoy a beautiful and demanding ride through the park of Mount Royal in the centre of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The park's beautiful splendour and various routes and paths make it a wonderful area for families, friends, and solo cyclists to enjoy nature.
The park's breathtaking views mean it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
Visitors can take a bus or the metro or even walk to Mount Royal from the downtown area.
Taking a St. Lawrence River sightseeing cruise is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the river and the surrounding landscape and learn about the region's rich history and culture. Montreal's history, economy, and culture are all deeply entwined with the St. Lawrence River because of its significance as a significant waterway in North America. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day trip or an adventurous excursion, a St. Lawrence River sightseeing cruise is a great choice for a vacation activity.
Montreal is home to La Ronde Six Flags, an amusement park with rides and attractions suitable for thrill seekers of all ages. This place offers everything from family-friendly activities and special events to tempting food and beverages. La Ronde has more than 40 rides and attractions, such as roller coasters, a log flume, a Ferris wheel, and more. It's the perfect activity during a Montreal family vacation. On average, it sees 1.2 million tourists per year.
The rich history and vibrant culture of Quebec, Canada, informs French-Canadian cooking, a culinary delight. The cuisine is a reflection of the history and legacy of the French Canadian people. Although it originates in classical French cooking, it has developed over time to combine ingredients and techniques from various cultures, such as the Indigenous and the Acadians. Do take time on a Montreal vacation to try various local restaurants and treats. While the kids might not appreciate the fine-dining options, top things to taste on a family vacation in Montreal are poutine, tourtiere and maple syrup treats.
Every year, travellers worldwide discover that Montreal is a beautiful family vacation place. The Montreal, Canada family vacation has many things to offer families, including historical sites and amusement parks.
Six days is enough time for family vacations in Montreal, Canada. With a few side excursions, you can experience the nature parks near Montreal and the remarkable landmarks of Quebec City.
Montreal is celebrated for its European-like charm, amazing food scene, diverse cultures, hockey team, and its many cultural attractions, such as Old Montreal and Notre Dame. It is also home to the famous Cirque du Soleil.
Useful Links
Train Trip FinderWhere to go in CanadaJourneys Across CanadaCanadian Rockies and West CoastEastern Canada and The MaritimesCanadian North and ArcticSummer Train TripsWinter Train TripsFall Color Train TripsTours for SeniorsRoad Trips and Self DrivesFamily AdventuresVacations for Active SeniorsHistory and Culture TripsWildlife Viewing TripsExplore Canada
The Canadian TrainTrain Across CanadaCanadian Sleeper TrainLuxury Trains Across CanadaVIA Rail VacationsRocky Mountaineer Train ToursCanadian Rockies Train ToursTrain Tours for SeniorsCanadian Pacific RailwayBest Train Trips in CanadaNational Park Train ToursTrain Tours from VancouverCanadian Snow TrainAlaska Cruise and Train ToursCanadian East Coast Train ToursCanadian West Coast Train ToursPopular Train Trips
Vancouver to Toronto Train JourneyAcross Canada by TrainComplete Canadian Rockies by TrainCanadian Cross-Country JourneyClassic Eastern Canada by TrainTrans Canada Rainforest RouteCanadian Rockies Voyage by TrainCanada Coast to Coast by TrainRockies Winter Wonderland by TrainDiscover Whistler and the Canadian Rockies by TrainMontreal and Quebec City Getaway by TrainCanadian Cross-Country Journey in WinterLords of the Wilderness Bear ViewingTrans Canada by Train in WinterEssential Rockies with Alaska CruiseCanadian Train Vacations
© 2025 Fresh Tracks Canada
