by Turo
posted on March 14, 2025
Snow-covered streets, family-friendly festivals, and a ton of outdoor adventures make Montreal an exciting place to visit in the winter. Whether you want to skate in the Old Port, hit the slopes at Mont Tremblant, or warm up with some of the great food the city is known for, you’ll find something for everyone.
With fewer crowds and plenty of can’t-miss winter activities, it’s the perfect time to explore. Let’s explore the top five things to do in Montreal during winter so you can start planning your visit!
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Ice skating in the Old Port
- Winter fun on Mount Royal
- Montréal en Lumière
- Skiing at Mont Tremblant
- Exploring the famous Jean-Talon Market
- FAQs about visiting Montreal in winter
- Hit the road and see the top attractions in Montreal
What to do in Montreal: winter activities you won’t want to miss
If you’re wondering what to do in Montreal this winter, the city has so much to offer. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a way to warm up after a chilly day, these winter activities will make your trip unforgettable.
Ice skating in the Old Port
Ice skating at the Old Port is a classic winter activity in Montreal. You’re right beside the St. Lawrence River, where you get stunning views of the city, and at night, the rink lights up with music and colourful displays.
Why it’s great
The refrigerated rink keeps the ice in great shape all season, and the waterfront setting makes it one of the most scenic places to skate. After you’re done, you’ll find a ton of great cafes and restaurants in Old Montreal to warm up in!
Practical tips
The rink is open from December to March, with skate rentals and sharpening services available on-site. Weekends get busy, and since the rink is right by the water, wearing warm layers is a good idea.
How to get there
Just minutes from Downtown Montreal, the rink is easy to reach by car. A compact or midsize rental car in Montreal is perfect for city driving. If you’re flying in, book with Turo for a smooth start to your winter trip, with options to have your vehicle delivered right to Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport!
Winter fun on Mount Royal
Mount Royal Park is one of the best places to enjoy winter in Montreal. Just minutes from downtown, this mountain park turns into a snowy playground with scenic trails, sledding hills, and a frozen lake for ice skating.
Why it’s great
Visit the park to find great snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, the panoramic Kondiaronk Lookout, and one of the best sledding spots in the city. There’s plenty to explore for travellers of all ages.
Practical tips
Mount Royal is free to visit, and gear rentals are available near Beaver Lake. The trails are well-maintained, but the higher elevation can make it feel colder, so dress warm.
How to get there
The park is a short drive from downtown. A spacious SUV rental is a great choice if you’re bringing winter gear, and a spacious minivan will fit the whole family. All Turo vehicles come equipped with winter tires that meet local regulations, so you can drive to the top in no time.
Montréal en Lumière
Every February, Montréal en Lumière transforms the Quartier des Spectacles into the ultimate winter wonderland filled with lights, food, and entertainment. It’s one of the best ways to embrace winter in Montreal!
Why it’s great
You’ll find street art, culture, and winter fun all over the city, with dazzling light displays, live performances, and a giant outdoor slide. Nuit Blanche, the festival’s all-night event, keeps museums, galleries, and venues open extra late for festivalgoers.
Practical tips
Most events take place in Quartier des Spectacles, with many free outdoor activities. Restaurants across the city feature special tasting menus, so booking ahead is a good idea.
How to get there
You’ll be driving around the heart of downtown, and parking can be tricky. If you rent a car in Montreal and choose an electric vehicle or a Tesla, you’ll find plenty of places nearby to charge up while you enjoy yourself.
Skiing at Mont Tremblant
For the best skiing near Montreal, head to Mont Tremblant, around 2 hours from the city. This world-class ski resort has incredible slopes, stunning views, and a lively village filled with great restaurants and nightlife hotspots.
Why it’s great
With over 100 runs, a high-speed gondola, and terrain for all skill levels, Mont Tremblant is one of the top ski destinations in Eastern Canada. Make some time for the cozy cafés, boutique shops, and some après-ski fun.
Practical tips
Ski passes and rentals are available on-site, but booking in advance can help you skip the lines. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. If you’re not into skiing, there’s so much more outdoor adventure to be had, from snowshoeing to snow tubing.
How to get there
Mont Tremblant is around a 2-hour drive from Montreal, making it an easy day trip. An all-wheel drive vehicle is the best option for handling snowy mountain roads and carrying ski gear. Look for models from Jeep, Subaru, or Toyota for your Montreal ski getaway.
Exploring the famous Jean-Talon Market
Jean-Talon Market is a must-visit if you love food. Located in beautiful Little Italy, this bustling market is packed with fresh local produce and gourmet treats and is the perfect spot to warm up while exploring winter in Montreal.
Why it’s great
Jean-Talon, one of the largest public markets in North America, has everything from fresh Quebec cheeses and maple syrup to warm pastries. The covered walkways make it easy to browse no matter the season.
Practical tips
The market is open year-round, but mornings are the quietest time to visit. Many vendors accept cards, but carrying some cash for smaller stalls is a good idea. After shopping, take a great cup of coffee for a walk around Little Italy.
How to get there
Jean-Talon Market is a short drive from downtown, but parking can be tight. A compact car rental makes it easier to navigate busy streets and find a spot. Sporty models from Nissan, Ford, or Chevrolet are perfect for city driving.
FAQs about visiting Montreal in winter
Where is Montreal?
Montreal is an island in the St. Lawrence River and is the largest city in Quebec. It’s easily accessible from Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport, with direct flights from major Canadian and international cities.
Rent a car with Turo for the freedom you need to explore Montreal and all of the beautiful country around it on your own terms. Choose the perfect vehicle for your travel style and enjoy flexible pick-up, drop-off, and delivery options!
What is the coldest month in Montreal?
January is usually the coldest month in Montreal, but that doesn’t stop the locals from enjoying the city! Average temperatures range from -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F), but wind chill can make it feel even colder, especially near the water.
What is there to do in Montreal in the winter?
It’s definitely worth visiting Montreal in the winter time – there’s so much to do. You can go ice skating by the water, explore snow-covered trails in the middle of the city, or experience one of the biggest winter festivals in Canada. If it’s too cold for you outside, check out the city’s world-class dining scene, museums, and lively markets.
How are winter road conditions in Montreal?
Montreal’s main roads and highways are regularly plowed and salted, but side streets, residential areas and parking spaces can get icy or congested after heavy snowfall.
What’s the best type of car for a Montreal road trip in the winter
For city driving, a compact or midsize car is great for maneuvering through traffic and finding parking. If you’re planning day trips or expect to drive in snowy conditions, an SUV or all-wheel drive vehicle is the best choice for extra stability.
Hit the road and see the top attractions in Montreal
Montreal, in the winter, is a city packed with adventure. Whether you’re here for the food, culture, or winter sports, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season.
Make your trip even easier by booking a winter-ready Montreal rental car with Turo. With flexible pickup and drop-off options, you can choose the perfect vehicle for your trip and experience Montreal exactly the way you want to!
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this Montreal day trip into reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just a lover of travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
