Go to Dorchester Square. This square has picturesque green gardens and several statues of Canadian historical significance, including one of French-Canadian statesman Wilfrid Laurier (created by Emile Brunnet). From this square, visitors can see the beautiful Neo-Classic skyscraper "Sun Life" and the beautiful architecture of the Banque de Commerce Canadienne Imperiale.
Hang out at Rue Ste-Catherine. In very close proximity to Dorchester Square, this is the main shopping area of Montreal, a bustling hub of activity, with many restaurants, shops, department stores, and cafes. Located conveniently in the city's downtown area, this is a great place to get to know Montreal as a city.
Visit Old Montreal/Vieux Montreal. This area has the most packed concentration of historic buildings from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries in all of North America. With its charming Parisian style, Old Montreal is extremely popular with out-of-town visitors. It is a wonderful way to stroll around and explore the city's rich history, with a highly Gallic flair.
Check out Montreal's Chinatown. Visitors are warmly welcomed into the city's Chinese area by two large Chinese arches. In existence since the late 1860s, this Chinatown came about by the many Chinese railroad and mine workers who moved to the big city from the country to improve their lives. This is a good place to experience a bit of Chinese culture and have a tasty meal.
Go to Place d'Youville. This is an exquisite square that is surrounded by many historic buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries. The Courtyard of the Ecuries is located right by the plaza, and contains some fascinating warehouses from approximately 1825. Visitors can walk around the area and gaze in awe at the beautifully maintained buildings previous centuries.
