Why taking a gap year to learn English abroad is a game-changer
The time after high school or university is full of possibilities. Should you go straight into the next stage...
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Looking to learn English in Montreal? You’re in for an incredible experience in one of the most beautiful, vibrant and student-friendly cities on the planet (not to mention a paradise for foodies, thrifters and festival-heads, but we’ll get to that later).
Read on for inside tips on how to get the most out of your time in Montreal outside of class, from epic activities to off-the-radar hotspots. Plus, get advice on student life, getting around, saving money and staying warm, so you can hit the ground running the moment you arrive.
It’s a top choice for thousands of international students who want to learn English abroad – and there are some very good reasons why.
Let’s start with nine of them.
Canada’s second-largest city is an unparalleled mix of old and new worlds. French and English are both official languages, the architecture is a blend of French colonial, Beaux Arts, and modern styles, and creativity is everywhere–from tech startups to jazz fests.
Unlike many big cities, Montreal offers a high-quality lifestyle without the hefty price tag. You’ll be immersed in incredible culture, and the cost of living is lower than in other Canadian or UK cities, so you have more cash for adventures and poutine!
From incredible museums to the iconic Montreal International Jazz Festival to indie film screenings at Cinema Moderne, there’s never a dull moment. The city is alive with music, art, cultural events and festivals year-round. From music and comedy to film and food, you can experience a little of everything–without breaking the bank.
Hike up Mount Royal, kayak along the Lachine Canal, or ice skate at Parc La Fontaine—if you love the outdoors, Montreal will not disappoint. The city is designed to make sure you can enjoy all four seasons, with loads of parks and green spaces offering year-round activities.
Montreal has an extensive and super-intuitive metro and bus system, so navigating the city is easy. (Just grab an OPUS card for discount student fares and you’re good to go.) The metro is efficient, clean, and connects all major neighbourhoods, making it easy to get from class to your next adventure.
Home to world-renowned institutions like McGill University and Concordia University, Montreal is a hub for academic excellence and a hot spot for students from all over the world. Wherever you go, you’ll find lots of resources, events and opportunities geared to students.
Montreal’s food scene is legendary because of its amazing cultural diversity. From bagels at St-Viateur to smoked meat at Schwartz’s Deli, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don’t miss out on trying poutine—fries topped with cheese curds and gravy—a local delicacy that’s perfect for late-night cravings.
Montreal is a bilingual city, giving you the chance to improve not just your English, but your French skills, too! It’s like a two-for-one language deal! You’ll find that many locals switch effortlessly between the two languages, offering you daily practice in both. Taking a French course in Montreal is very popular, you’ll find French language schools throughout the city.
A world-renowned hub for music, film and television, Montreal is also a centre for artificial intelligence research. The city’s thriving job market offers internships, part-time gigs, and networking galore–you’ll find lots of ways to gain real-world experience while studying.
When it comes to student-friendly cities, Montreal checks all the boxes for student life – no matter what part of the city you’re exploring. But each neighbourhood has its own special character and unique experiences you’ll want to check out. Here’s a guide to some of the cool things you can do, one neighbourhood at a time.
Cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica make Old Montreal a step back in time. With its charming cafés and waterfront views of the Old Port, this Instagram-worthy neighbourhood is perfect for Sunday brunches and leisurely strolls. By day, it’s a bustling area filled with street performers; by night, the old-world charm takes on a magical glow under the streetlights.
Where to eat
For good eats on a budget, grab a latte at Crew Collective & Café, inside a breathtaking former bank with soaring ceilings and intricate architecture. Or stop by Maison Christian Faure for exquisite French pastries that will transport your taste buds straight to Paris. Don’t forget to check out Olive et Gourmando, a local favourite known for its delicious sandwiches and cosy atmosphere.
What to do
Explore the Old Port, where you can rent an inexpensive pedal boat, take a boat tour on the St. Lawrence River, zip-line across the area–or just take a blissed-out walk with friends along the waterfront, checking out outdoor art installations and street performances. Don’t miss the epic light show at Notre-Dame Basilica that brings the church’s history to life.
Where to shop
Browse through boutique shops like Mlle Catherine for unique gifts and souvenirs, or check out Marché Bonsecours, a historic market filled with local artisan products. If you’re an art lover, check out Galerie LeRoyer, which features contemporary pieces from local artists.
This trendy neighbourhood is full of colourful murals, quirky boutiques, and cosy cafés. The Plateau is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and music venues. Creativity thrives here, and you’ll feel it in every corner—from the art-lined streets to the lively café terraces.
Where to eat
Head to Lola Rosa for delicious vegetarian dishes served in a warm, eclectic setting—don’t forget to check the drawers at your table for secret notes left by past diners! For a late-night bite, grab a classic poutine at La Banquise, open 24/7 and offering over 30 varieties of this iconic dish.
What to do
Take a walk through Parc La Fontaine, a sprawling urban park perfect for picnicking, skating in winter, or simply lounging with a book (it’s full of students who are doing just that). Enjoy free outdoor concerts in summer or explore the colourful street art along Rue Saint-Denis.
At night, check out indie bands at Le Belmont club, or catch live music at Casa del Popolo, an intimate venue that’s part café, part bar and all about supporting local talent. For a laid-back evening, grab a pint at Dieu du Ciel!, a microbrewery with an ever-changing list of creative brews.
Where to shop
Montreal is brimming with vintage shops, and this neighbourhood is no exception. Check out Eva B for vintage clothing and quirky finds—a thrift store that’s also part café, making it a perfect spot to browse. For handmade gems, visit Boutique Unicorn, known for its local designers.
Known for its vibrant, artsy vibe, this neighbourhood is filled with artists, musicians, students and creatives. It’s the kind of place where you can stumble upon an impromptu street performance or discover a hidden gem of a bookstore. It’s also home to iconic bagel shops (we’re looking at you, Fairmount Bagel!), incredible thrift stores and chill coffee spots.
Where to eat
Mile End has the best cafés around. Hang out at Café Olimpico, a neighbourhood staple with a lively atmosphere and strong espresso. And don’t miss Fairmount Bagel or St-Viateur Bagel delights fresh from the oven. Sweet tooth? Visit Kem Coba for artisanal ice cream (the mango-chilli is insanely good).
What to do
Wander through indie bookstores like Drawn & Quarterly, where you’ll find everything from graphic novels to local zines. Explore local art galleries tucked into residential streets, or join a language exchange meetup at a cosy café like Le Cagibi.
Where to shop
This neighbourhood is brimming with vintage and thrift shops. Hit up renowned Annex Vintage for cool, second-hand gems that will make your wardrobe stand out. If you’re a vinyl lover, Phonopolis Records offers an impressive selection of new and used records.
The heart of Montreal’s cultural scene, this area hosts festivals, concerts, major events–and it’s known for its nightlife. It’s also where you’ll find shopping centres, theatres, and some of the city’s tallest skyscrapers. If you’re in the mood for some serious shopping or theatre, you’re in the right place.
Where to eat
Here you’ll find something for every taste, nationality and budget. Do not miss the huge sandwiches at Schwartz’s Deli, a Montreal institution and student favourite. For affordable Middle Eastern eats, try Boustan—their garlic potatoes are epic! Or head to Les Enfants Terribles on the 44th floor of Place Ville Marie, for panoramic views of the city and tons of Instagram likes.
What to do
Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, which is incredible (and students under 30 get in free). Catch a film at Cinéma du Parc, known for its indie and foreign film selections, or attend a festival at Place des Arts, the city’s premier cultural complex.
At night, this neighbourhood is booming. You’ll want to check out The Comedy Nest for a night of laughs—they often host student nights with discounted tickets. Enjoy live jazz at Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill, a cosy venue with an old-school charm that’s perfect for a chill evening with friends.
Where to shop
Explore Montreal’s famous Underground City, a network of interconnected malls and walkways–perfect for winter shopping sprees. For mainstream shopping (and basically anything you could imagine needing), head to Eaton Centre or Complexe Desjardins.
This area blends old industrial charm with new, modern developments, where history meets hipster. Explore the scenic Lachine Canal, visit Atwater Market, and check out the trendy spots in Griffintown.
Where to eat
For flavourful and super affordable Southeast Asian street food, grab a bite at Satay Brothers in Atwater Market. And don’t miss the brunch at Le Richmond, a stylish spot with a stunning interior and a delicious menu.
What to do
The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the bustle of downtown. Join a yoga class in the park. Bike along the Lachine Canal, kayak in the summer, or picnic by the water with friends. In the winter, the canal turns into a scenic ice-skating path—a true Montreal experience!
Where to shop
Visit Atwater Market for fresh produce, local cheeses, and delicious baked goods. Don’t forget to check out the food stalls for a quick, tasty lunch.
Home to the Olympic Stadium and the beautiful Montreal Botanical Garden, this neighbourhood is an up-and-coming area that’s full of surprises.
Where to eat
Try Antidote Bouffe Végane for tasty vegan dishes that even meat-eaters will love, or enjoy a hearty meal at Bagatelle Bistro, known for its warm atmosphere and French-inspired menu.
What to do
Visit the Montreal Botanical Garden, one of the largest in the world, or explore the Biodôme, where you can walk through replicas of four ecosystems found in the Americas. Climb to the top of the Olympic Tower for panoramic views of the city—it’s the tallest inclined tower in the world! Or visit the Insectarium for a quirky afternoon learning about all things creepy-crawly.
Where to shop
Check out local markets and small shops for unique, handcrafted items. The MarchéMaisonneuve is a great spot to find fresh, local produce and speciality foods, perfect for students on a budget.
With so many things to do in Montreal (not to mention your classes and homework!), it’s easy to overlook some epic activities. Here’s a quick list of experiences not to be missed.
Montreal’s comedy scene is legendary. Catch a show at The Comedy Nest or grab a mic at open-mic nights around the city. Just for Laughs, the world’s largest comedy festival, also offers plenty of free and affordable shows during the summer.
Thrift items your friends back home won’t even believe
Hit up Eva B on St-Laurent for vintage finds or browse the boutiques in Mile End. You’ll find everything from quirky fashion pieces to home goods to rare vinyl records.
Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts or Pointe-à-Callière Museum—many offer student discounts or free entry days. Don’t miss the McCord Museum for a deep dive into Montreal’s history.
Sip your way through all the cafés in Old Montreal. Or try cool spots in Le Plateau, like Café Myriade and Café Parvis, perfect for studying or catching up with friends.
In summer, don’t miss the world-famous Montreal International Jazz Festival (many concerts are free!) Then cap off summer at Osheaga, Montreal’s biggest summer music festival in Parc Jean-Drapeau, featuring international headliners and local talent. In winter, celebrate Igloofest and dance under the stars with the whole city–a quintessential Montreal experience. March brings Nuit Blanche: A magical all-night art festival with free events and light installations everywhere.
Montreal is a huge sports town. Get into the spirit by catching the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre or a soccer match with CF Montreal. Don’t forget about the Alouettes if you’re into Canadian football!
Hike Mount Royal, bike along the Lachine Canal, or skate in the Old Port. Head to Parc Jean-Drapeau for swimming and beach vibes in summer or snow tubing in winter.
How to get the most out of your Montreal experience
No matter what Montreal neighbourhoods call to you or what activities you pursue, you’ll want to be able to navigate them like a local and make the city your home away from home. Here are some tried-and-true tips students use to move through this fantastic city with confidence.
Navigating Montreal is easy: Get an OPUS card as soon as you can for discounted student fares on the public transit system. Montreal is also a big cycling town year-round: the city’s bike paths are extensive, and BIXI bikes are perfect for warmer months.
You’ll find tons of student discounts throughout the city–from museums to transit, yoga classes to movies, restaurants and sports events, fitness centres to clubs. So don’t forget to bring your student ID wherever you go!
Free activities are everywhere in Montreal from festivals to museum days. The city’s many green spaces and outdoor events mean you can always find something fun to do without spending a dime. Check out the Tam-Tams at Mount Royal Park every Sunday for a free, lively drum circle experience.
Montreal in the winter months is super fun, but it can get very cold. Layer up, invest in a good winter coat, and embrace the season with activities like ice skating and snowshoeing. Montrealers don’t let a little snow stop them, and neither should you!
With your sense of fun and these helpful tips, you’ll be ready to get out there and make this city your new home while you learn English abroad in Montreal. So grab some classmates and jump in: Montreal is ready to welcome you with open arms. Bonne chance!
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