Anne-Charlotte PasseraSometimes the best things in Montreal can be free, even on a guided tour.
Montreal has 380 years of history to share over 365km2. In fact, it’s actually older than Canada.
It’s easy to catch a glimpse of its history just by walking around the Old port. Yet, there is much more to discover than meets the eye.
Each neighbourhood has seen its fare share of special events. But, you wouldn’t know that by just strolling down a random street.
Looking at old brick buildings converted into lofts you wonder, what were they used for before?
Instead of walking around aimlessly, how about using a free self-guided app? Not only will it answer some of your questions, but take you places you never even thought about exploring.
Of course, there are also other ways to learn more about Montreal’s history for free.
Museum of Pointe à Caillère
Museums are generally free the first Sunday of the month.
The Museum of Pointe à Caillère located in the Old Port, will give you great insight into Montreal’s past.
Learn about the museum HERE.
Promenade Fleuve Montagne
This 3.8km walk starts at the top of the Mount-Royal and ends in the Old Port. Of course, you can do it the other way around. However, it’s always easier to walk down hill than up.
The walk highlights Montreal’s architectural and historical elements.
Special markers are put in strategic places for you to follow.
You can also download the map HERE.
Parc linéaire du Réseau-Vert
From Fullum Street to Saint-Urbain Street lies a 3.4km path. It mostly follows the railroad tracks of the Canadian Pacific.
Along the path, you’ll learn about the industrial past of Rosemont-Petite Patrie.
Initially envisioned in the 80s, it wasn’t until the 21st century that this project saw the light.
It’s very popular for runners and to ride your bike. However, you can also walk it freely and forget that you are actually in Montreal.
Artists have also left their creative touch along the path.
Along the way, you’ll discover some green oasis to make a pit stop or work out if you are in the mood. The Van Horne warehouse and its water tower with its curve that follows the railroad is one of the highlights.
A free self-guided App for Montreal
The Balado Discovery App was launched in 2011 by Gerald Gilbert in Quebec.
It’s free to download and to use. There is no need to create an account.
On it, you will find tons of free self-guided tours in English, French and Spanish and not just for Montreal. In fact, it takes you throughout Quebec, across Canada and overseas.
The content is available offline. You just need to preload the guided tour before you start exploring. Then, you can discover at your own pace without worrying running up your internet bill.
So what can you visit in Montreal?
Hochelaga and Maisonneuve Market
Who knew that there were repeatedly fires that spread through Hochelaga?
Stare up the magnificent church of Nativity, try to get the perfect angle of the water tower that marks the beginning of Hochelaga and walk down Ontario Avenue. Hidden treasures await to be discovered.
Also, there are a lot of street art that cheers up the visit.
Finish off at the Maisonneuve Market, and stock up on local produce.
The original building of Beaux-Art style was built in 1914 and was used as a market where farmers came to sell their livestock.
To embellish the market square, a fountain with a sculpture of a farm girl carrying a basket was erected.
Pointes-aux-Trembles
While there isn’t that much to see in Pointe-aux-Trembles, it’s still a nice visit.
Hop on the river shuttle from the Old Port to Pointe-aux-Trembles for Free if you have a monthly STM pass. It’s a fun 30 minute boat ride. (summer only)
In summer, they have a farmers market by the docks every Saturday. Also in the same area, there is an access to a small pebble beach and a park.
Follow the guided tour from there, see a windmill and old working-class housing. Along the river you’ll be amazed by the victorian homes that still look as good as new.
There are other self-guided tours to try, but we’ve just not gotten to them yet.
Looking for family-friendly activities ? Read our article on Free activities to do in Montreal.
