Forget New York: Discover the Underrated Paradise Known as the ‘Paris of North America’

Proposing a vacation to Montreal as an alternative
New York
It’s somewhat akin to advising someone searching for a new vehicle to consider this option.
Primark
.

When a buddy suggested I check out
Canada
When someone suggested using ‘s cultural capital as a substitute for the Big Apple, I was doubtful.

Montréal seldom makes it onto the top travel lists, and trying to equate it with the array of excellence that is
NYC
? Please.

However, those six days altered my perspective. I stumbled upon a location where North American chill blends with European sophistication, an historically bilingual city brimming with amazing cuisine, art, and top-notch circus schools (indeed, truly remarkable).

Here’s your insider’s guide for first-timers, ranging from spectacular cabarets to the top poutine places around.

Marketplaces, museums, and maple syrup

Established in 1642 as a component of ‘New France’, Montreal has successfully maintained its French origins while embracing a diverse array of cultures and honoring its indigenous legacy.

Welcoming individuals worldwide to establish their presence here signifies that numerous languages are heard throughout the city. Montreal is frequently called the city of languages and the ‘Paris of North America’.

Similar to New York, this city boasts distinctive neighborhoods. The Old Town exudes an authentically Parisian atmosphere; Montreal’s take on it offers a charming twist.
Notre-Dame Basilica
looms above the square, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that hosts frequent light and theater performances. I secured a ticket for the Aura Experience, an impressive three-part show that truly left me amazed. The $35 (£19) price tag was absolutely justified.

Montreal serves as the epicenter for circus activities in North America, with the creative arts sector being quite prominent. The city hosts the National Circus School and is also where Cirque du Soleil, the globe’s leading modern circus production company established in 1984, originated.

Based on how much you enjoy absorbing information during your vacation, the museums surrounding Montreal can be incredibly top-notch or totally overwhelming.

Everyone offers deep insights, and I suggest the
McCord Stewart Museum
For just $2 (£1), the museum’s ‘Indigenous Voices Of Today’ exhibition shares the poignant yet distressing tale of the nation’s Aboriginal peoples. Carefully curated by members of these communities, this display offers insight into their often overlooked experiences and acknowledges the injustices faced under colonial rule during the 1900s.

The highlight of my time in Montreal took place just outside the city limits.
Sucrerie De La Montagne
, a classic sugar shack established in 1972 by the renowned local figure Pierre Faucher.

The family-operated maple syrup business doesn’t just reveal the production process of northern Canada’s beloved sweetener; it also offers an authentic taste of a Canadian maple farm, featuring dishes like bacon soaked in maple syrup and simple yet delightful sugar pies.

Adding the lively country music and sweet maple taffy, this cozy cabin became the highlight of my journey.

Seafood and steak? Discovering Montreal’s food landscape

Skipping poutine or hearty sandwich stacks would be a travesty, yet Montreal’s food landscape extends far beyond typical diners.

In the center of Little Italy at Mile End lies
Jean-
Talon
Market
One of the biggest outdoor markets for fresh produce in North America, this location offers a wonderful way to spend hours exploring vendor stalls and tasting regional meats, cheeses, and spices.

In Montreal, which is renowned for its surf and turf, the Old Town area is where you should head. Upon arriving in the city, my guide promptly stated, “There’s one thing you absolutely have to taste, and that’s the oysters.”
Mignon
The flavor of the sea will make you forget that you’re right in the heart of a busy city.

For the steak, I indulged in the Filet Mignon. At 7oz, it comes with a price tag of $65 (£36), yet more affordable choices are available at $40 ($22). However, when visiting French Canada, you wouldn’t want to miss out on trying this delectable piece of meat.

Another culinary highlight was
Fleurs Et Cadeaux
, a pink palace that transports you 6,576 miles away to the streets of
Kyoto
Even though sushi and unagi might not be what initially comes to mind when planning a culinary adventure during a trip to a Canadian city, the delicious, freshly sourced local fish combined with the Japan-themed menu offerings will create a burst of flavors that stay on your taste buds long after.

If you’re determined to try poutine (and you definitely should), Chez Simon Cantine Urbaine is a must-visit spot. In addition to their indulgent crispy fries, rich brown gravy, and fresh squeaky cheese curds, this popular place on Hochelaga Street also serves up the finest smashburgers in the city.

Canadian camp

As an
LGBTQ+
traveler, a cocktail, and dancing are essential parts of every journey. No matter which country I’m in, I become drawn to aBritney Spears beat and a charismatic drag queen.

The selection in Montreal is outstanding; Saint Catherine Street stands as Canada’s response to Canal Street, with its prized gem being
Cabaret Mado
Operated by the legendary drag performer Mado, this dazzling 1920s-themed bar has been a mainstay along the Strip for more than three decades. Guests can enjoy an up-close performance, though visitors should beware—the front-row seats come with an intense experience.

Following a genuine taste of a Canadian camping experience
,
I walk across the road to
Stud
This more traditionally styled queer venue began as a leather-themed bar in 1995. It features several areas where patrons can unwind, enjoy a drink, or let loose completely.
Chappell Roan
My single criticism is that it does not appeal to a female or non-binary crowd, positioning itself strictly as a ‘men’s bar’ where men are intended to enjoy the atmosphere with each other.

To create a more inclusive environment, head over to Mile End where you can discover Montreal’s version of East London’s Divine.
Notre Dame De Quilles
offers a venue where the alternate LGBTQ+ community can flourish through various theme nights.

From ‘The Poly Mic,’ a stage that provides an outlet for LGBTQ+ comedians and musicians, to the eerie and macabre ‘Cerise Noire’ that embraces everything Gothic, Notre Dame De Quilles serves as the ideal venue to immerse yourself in Montreal’s edgy underground queer culture.

Overall, Montreal offers a enchanting getaway for LGBTQ+ visitors, featuring a warm ambiance and rich multicultural heritage. While it may not be New York, it certainly rivals it closely.

Torin Gillies was invited by Destination Canada and Tourism Montreal.
Air Transat offers direct flights from
London Gatwick
from £335 one-way.

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