Trail Profile: Ville de Montréal Trail – Old Montreal
Old Montreal is known for its incredible architecture and cobblestone streets, excellent culinary options and great museums – all within easy reach.The Ville de Montréal section of the Trans Canada Trail runs right through Old Montreal and provides a great active transportation option for exploring the area.
What we love about this Trail section
• It takes users right into the heart of Old Montreal’s history and culture.
• It’s an ideal active transportation option for walking, jogging and cycling – plus people-watching, of course.
• It hugs the Old Port of Montreal and offers beautiful waterfront views.
• It’s in close proximity to several festivals and events, year-round!
Photo credit: Jennifer Mahon
Centuries of history at your fingertips
The Ville de Montréal Trail takes trail users through the heart of the old city, crisscrossing the neighbourhood, passing by renowned sites including Montreal’s Birthplace Historic Site of Canada; Bonsecours Market; and the Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site, a Parks Canada site.
Other sites of interest include Pointe-à-Callière museum, where you can explore Montreal’s history and archaeology; the Montreal Science Centre – a must-visit with little ones; and the Old Port of Montreal.
Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets and beautiful historic architecture help bring the city’s history to life. If you like, use the Cité Mémoire application to find video installations and stories about Montreal’s history throughout the neighbourhood.
Photo credit: Amy Schwartz
Festivals, food and fun
Foodies rejoice! Old Montreal is also known for excellent pastry shops, cafés and restaurants, several of which can be found just steps from the Trans Canada Trail. It’s an excellent year-round destination to walk, cycle or jog, then take a break for a snack or bite to eat and enjoy the views.
You’ll also find attractions for all ages, including La Grande Roue de Montréal — a ferris wheel offering exceptional panoramic views of the Saint Lawrence River and cityscape, open every day of the year. In the summer, the Old Port is even home to a beach! Montrealers are known for their love of winter, and Old Montreal is a great place to visit during the snowy season. You’ll find art installations, the IglooFest music festival and much more.
Photo credit: Jennifer Mahon
An immersion in the arts
Old Montreal is also known for its exceptional art scene. Just steps from the Trans Canada Trail, the Phi Centre offers immersive installations year-round, plus guided tours and organized activities. Another great stop, right on the Trail, is the Sacred Fire Productions’ Cultural Space, dedicated to showcasing Indigenous art and artists. You’ll also find galleries dotted throughout Old Montreal, with art for all tastes.
Photo credit: Amy Schwartz
Expand your exploration
For those looking to explore beyond Old Montreal, the Ville de Montreal section of the Trail spans over 50 kilometres, taking trail users all the way east and north in the city. It also links to the Lachine Canal National Historic Route, which continues west along a scenic canal, ideal for cycling and walking; and to the Parc Jean-Drapeau route, which continues south to the popular urban park situated between Montreal and the South Shore. Parc Jean-Drapeau is an excellent option for winter activities. You’ll find a wide range of options, including cross-country skiing, winter hiking, ice climbing and much more, all at the park!
Explore Old Montreal on our interactive map!
Main photo credit: Jennifer Mahon
