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Guide
Montreal, Canada π¨π¦
#18
,
Nomad Score:
67%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Montreal is the largest city in Quebec and the second-largest in Canada. It is known for its vibrant culture, festivals, and diverse population. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 1.7 million people. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 100 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 CAD β 0.74 USD. Major banks include RBC, TD, and Scotiabank. |
π° Tap Water | Drinkable. Montreal has some of the highest quality tap water in North America. |
π Power | 120V, 60Hz, π Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Major providers include Bell, Rogers, and Telus; prepaid SIMs available at convenience stores. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Popular services for expats include Wise and Revolut for currency exchange. |
π Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, local rentals, and long-term leases. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are accepted widely across the city. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and Vrbo are popular short-term rental platforms. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel alternative: HI Montreal Hostel offers affordable dormitory and private rooms. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Old Montreal (Vieux-MontrΓ©al) offers historical sites and cultural attractions. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The Plateau-Mont-Royal and Mile End are ideal for their cafes, coworking spaces, and community vibe. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | WeWork at 5140 Boulevard de Maisonneuve Ouest, known for its vibrant community and amenities. |
β Best Cafe for Work | CafΓ© Olimpico in Mile End has great coffee and a conducive work atmosphere. |
πΌ Networking Events | Montreal Startup Meetup offers monthly gatherings for entrepreneurs and freelancers. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Montreal Expats Facebook Group organizes various events and meetups. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber is widely used and reliable for quick transportation. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | BIXI offers bike rentals throughout the city. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Plage Jean-Drapeau is a popular beach area, accessible via public transit. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Air Canada is the main regional carrier. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Air Canada, American Airlines, and WestJet operate major international flights. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Major highways, including Autoroutes 20, 40, and 15 provide excellent connectivity. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Central Station (Gare Centrale) connects multiple train and bus services. |
π Public Transport Passes | The OPUS card provides users with monthly and weekly transit pass options. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Trains to Toronto and Quebec City are available via VIA Rail. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) is the primary healthcare facility. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Lululemon Studio provides community yoga classes. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | YMCA Montreal offers diverse fitness programs and facilities. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Lavoir (Laundry) is a popular laundromat located in the Plateau area. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | UberEats and SkipTheDishes dominate the food delivery market. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Poutine, a local specialty made from fries, cheese curds, and gravy. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Restaurants like Crudessence and Aux Vivres offer diverse plant-based menus. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | PΓ’tisserie Rhubarbe is renowned for its exceptional pastries. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Jean-Talon Market is a great place for fresh, affordable local produce. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon.ca and local e-commerce sites like MTL Boutique are popular. |
π Grocery Delivery | Instacart and Grocery Gateway provide grocery delivery services. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Crescent Street area is famous for its lively nightlife. |
π» Local Brewery | Microbrasserie de la CΓ΄te des Neiges offers tours and tastings. |
π· Wine Bars | Le Vin Papillon is a favorite wine bar with a cozy atmosphere. |
π² Street Food Stalls | La Gascogne has excellent street food options available during festivals. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Restaurant Bouillon Bilk serves innovative international dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Mount Royal Park offers stunning views of the city skyline. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Montreal Museum of Fine Arts hosts an extensive collection of art. |
π° Historical Sites | Old Port of Montreal offers unique historical insights and waterfront views. |
π Religious Sites | Basilique Notre-Dame is a stunning church known for its gothic architecture. |
π Annual Events | The Montreal International Jazz Festival is a must-visit event in the summer. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Plateau-Mont-Royal is known for its artistic vibe and diverse culture. |
π Theater Venues | ThéÒtre du Nouveau Monde is popular for avant-garde performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Atwater Market is a popular spot for food lovers and local produce. |
πΌ Music Scene | Montreal's music scene is vibrant, with venues like the Bell Centre hosting major concerts. |
π¨ Street Art | Saint-Laurent Boulevard features impressive street murals. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Atelier et Saveurs offers culinary workshops and tastings. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Galerie Mtl is an independent gallery showcasing local artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | ChΓ’teau Ramezay is a historic site reflecting Montreal's colonial past. |
π΄ Local Heritage | The city celebrates its French heritage, evident in its language and customs. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Mount Royal offers trails for hiking and breathtaking views. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Mont-Saint-Bruno National Park is a scenic getaway located a short drive from the city. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | LaRoute Verte offers extensive cycling and walking paths throughout the city. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint from Mount Royal Park provides stunning vistas of the city skyline. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Γle-Bizard Nature Park is known for its diverse bird species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Parc Maisonneuve has designated spots for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Canada Post and FedEx provide reliable shipping services. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | iTech Repair provides excellent service for gadget repairs. |
π Table Tennis Spots | The Montreal Table Tennis Club offers facilities for enthusiasts. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | CEGEPs offer French language courses for non-native speakers. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | BibliothΓ¨que et Archives nationales du QuΓ©bec (BAnQ) is a great quiet place to work. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Centre communautaire de Pierrefonds is a hub for local activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Gaming Lounge Montreal offers a variety of gaming options. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Casino de Montreal is the city's premier gaming establishment. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. CAD 4,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = CAD 180,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. CAD 3,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = CAD 140,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. CAD 4,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = CAD 252,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. CAD 3,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = CAD 192,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. CAD 3,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = CAD 304,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. CAD 2,900 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = CAD 232,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 26.5% for corporations based in Quebec. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | Eligible dividends are taxed at 38.33%. |
π¦ Tax System | Canadian tax system is based on residence; worldwide income is taxable. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 53.31% in Quebec for high-income earners. |
π§Ύ VAT | 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) plus 9.975% Provincial Sales Tax (PST). |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, Canada has CFC rules in place. |
π Property Tax | Yes, based on assessed value of property. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Up to 1.5% in Quebec depending on the purchase price. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Certain deductions available to digital nomads working remotely. |