Overview
Before the 1970s, Montreal was Canada’s most prominent city. Due to poor investments and bad luck, it has since lost that position to Toronto. It remains the second largest city in Canada, and is the capital of Quebec. It is also the center of Canada’s Francophone culture – more French speakers live here than anywhere outside Paris. Montreal is one of the oldest cities in North America. That history is reflected in the city’s rich cultural heritage and its various monuments, museums, and public spaces.
Montreal is consistently ranked among the world’s most livable cities. The metro and rest of the public transit system makes getting around easy and convenient. There are lots of parks and public spaces to enjoy. The French speaking population can be a little intimidating towards outsiders, but if you take the effort get to know them they’re as friendly as anyone. This is a diverse city, with large European and Middle Eastern populations. There’s also a Little Italy and a Chinatown. People from all over have come here to set up their businesses.
More than any other city in North America, Montreal feels like a slice of Europe – from its large collection of French restaurants to its cosmopolitan population to its excellent public transport. It’s hard not to fall in love with it.
