General Information

Driving in Québec

Driver's License:

As a visitor to Québec, you may drive a car for a maximum of six consecutive months without having a Québec driver's license. Nevertheless, you must possess a valid driver's license—in the class corresponding to the category of vehicle you will be driving in Québec, issued by a government which accords the same right to Québec drivers—and you should respect the conditions on which that license was granted (exceptions may apply: students, work-related driving, diplomats, etc.). When you are driving a vehicle licensed in Québec, you are covered for liability to the same extent that Québec drivers are if you have an accident in Québec.

Road signs and speed limit:

Québec uses the metric system, so speeds are indicated in kilometres (100 km/h = 62 mph) and gas is sold in litres (3 3/4 litres = 1 US gallon). Although road signs are in French, most of them use international symbols so you shouldn't have any difficulty. (The word for “exit” is “sortie” in French.) Some highways share on- and off-ramps, so be cautious; fortunately, Québec drivers are good about letting you merge in and out.

Right turn:

Although turning right on a red light is authorized across Québec (except at intersections where a sign indicates this is not permitted), rights on reds are strictly prohibited on the island of Montréal .

Parking
Parking in the city centre is not difficult; there are many of paid parking lots and meter parking, which is free after business hours. (And yes, meters are checked… often!) Some parking meters have been replaced by automatic pay stations. Numbered blue and white signs indicate where these parking spaces are available. Simply park your car and take note of the number of the parking spot. Next, go to the nearest automated pay station to pay the desired parking duration and take your ticket with you—there's no need to leave it in your vehicle. Always make sure to check for No Parking signs. If you're not having much luck on major streets, try side-streets. Look for that signs to tell you if you're allowed to park: a numbered square on a sign means a section of the street is reserved for residents (you'll see stickers in the windows of other cars). Otherwise, just check if there are any day or time (24h clock) restrictions.

In winter, orange signs are put up telling you to move your car for snow clearing. (Take a peek out of the window if you hear the plows–it's amazing how quickly they clear a street!) If you're not used to winter driving, just slow down before intersections in case there is ice, and avoid sudden turns.

Monday = lundi
Tuesday = mardi
Wednesday = mercredi
Thursday = jeudi
Friday = vendredi
Saturday = samedi
Sunday = dimanche
EXCEPT = sauf

Customs and Immigration Information

Each country has different laws so it's important to know what you are allowed to bring across the border. When you come to Canada , you can't bring firearms without special permission from Canada Border Services Agency, nor can you bring a radar detector. Also, certain animals and plants will not be allowed in, unless quarantined, so it's always best to check with Canadian customs first when in doubt.

Personal Identification:

Visitors entering Canada must present a valid passport and, in certain cases, a visa, with the exception of American residents and citizens. American citizens must carry proof of citizenship (birth certificate or certificate of citizenship) as well as a piece of photo identity. However, it is strongly recommended that you carry your passport  with you at all times for identity purposes (see the heading New American passport requirements for travelers below).

Before entering Canada , all visitors are responsible for ensuring that they have the required documents necessary, whether they are traveling through to another country or returning to their country of origin. For more information, visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada .

New American passport requirements for travelers:

Please note that starting January 23, 2007 , a valid passport, an Air NEXUS card or a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document will be required from any person entering the territory by air .

As early as January 1, 2008 , individuals entering the United States by land or sea (including ferries) are required to present a valid U.S. passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security.

If you would like more information on these new requirements, visit the Web site of the U.S. Department of State  or Citizenship and Immigration Canada .

Personal Baggage:

Clothing and goods for personal use during your stay are admitted to Canada free of duty. In most provinces, limited quantities of tobacco products may be brought in duty-free by persons 18 years and over (19 in Newfoundland , Nova Scotia , New Brunswick , Prince Edward Island , Ontario and British Columbia ). Similarly, limited quantities of alcoholic beverages may be brought into Alberta , Manitoba and Québec by persons 18 years and over (19 in other provinces). Items such as cameras, tape recorders, computers or sporting equipment should be registered with the customs service in the traveler's country of residence prior to departure in order to prove they were purchased before entering Canada .

Gifts:

Visitors to Canada may bring in gifts of a maximum value of $60 CA. Duty must be paid on any gifts in excess of this amount. Tobacco, alcohol and promotional materials may not be considered as gifts.

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
400 PIace d'Youville, Suite 120
Montréal (Québec) H2Y 2C2
Tel.: (514) 350-6120
http://cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel/visitors-e.html

Language

French is the official language of Québec, but you'll find people who speak English as well, especially in Montréal. Even if you don't know a word of this beautiful language, Montrealers will really appreciate your efforts to greet them in French. Just say, Bonjour !

Montréal is the second largest French-speaking city in the world, after Paris and the most bilingual city in North America . A lot of Montrealers not only speak English and French, but 20% of the population speaks a third language as well. It is this unique blend of cultures that makes the city so dynamic.

Why not try learning a few basics in French? It's sure to add a whole new dimension to your next visit to Montréal. To get you started, here are some simple words and expressions, along with tips on how to say them. Getting the hang of it? Très bien! Try the 'bonus' words…

Weather and Seasons

The weather in Montréal varies greatly with the four seasons, so visitors are encouraged to check the forecast before packing. Below are average monthly temperatures and some Web site links which provide basic weather information, to help you plan your visit.

Source: Environment Canada

The key to enjoying a beautiful winter day in Montréal is dressing warmly. Be sure to pack a winter jacket, boots, hat, scarf, and gloves

Tipping

Service is not included in restaurants, so it is customary to add a 15% tip to the total. (A quick way to calculate the appropriate tip amount is to add up the two taxes – they appear at the bottom of your bill. It works out to roughly 15%). If you're with a group, 15% for service may be automatically added to your bill. Just ask when you're not sure if tip is included.

Taxi drivers, hairdressers, etc. are also normally tipped 15%. Bellhops, porters, doormen, etc. generally receive at least $1 per suitcase or per service rendered. Coffee and food counters often have a tip cup next to the cash register; spare change is always appreciated.

Canadian Currency

Canadian currency is the dollar, which is divided into 100 cents. There are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 1000 dollar bills. One and two dollar bills have been replaced by coins, sometimes referred to as "Loonies" (the bird on the $1 is a loon) and "Toonies" ($2). Smaller coins are 1, 5, 10, and 25 cent pieces. Keep an eye out for all the different designs on the larger coins, especially quarters: new coins are issued frequently to highlight different aspects of Canadian history and culture.

It's easy to exchange foreign currency in Montréal. You can cash traveler's cheques at banks and exchange offices ( Bureau de change in French) which are common in the areas you'll be visiting. Banking and credit cards are also welcome so you can withdraw with your bank card, use major credit cards, or even pay directly at stores, restaurants, etc. with Interact service – just look for the yellow sign. Many businesses also accept US currency and traveler's cheques (however, your change will be in Canadian currency). It's a good idea to carry Canadian currency.

Legal Holidays

Canada observes standard North American holidays with a few differences. The national holiday is celebrated on July 1st (Canada Day) and Thanksgiving falls on the second Monday in October. An interesting phenomenon in Québec is that all leases are up for renewal on July 1st, so everyone moves at the same time of year. You're bound to see a few moving trucks.

Québec also celebrates St. Jean Baptiste Day on June 24, which is right around Summer Solstice. This holiday is the most important one of the year in the province, with free events and concerts, a parade and street parties all over the city.

In Montréal, banks and government offices like the Post Office observe the holidays listed below. Some businesses may also be closed.

Foreign Consulates

There are almost one hundred consulates in Montréal. Below are five numbers; see the Yellow Pages for a complete listing.

Consulate General of the United States of America
(514) 398-9695

Consulate General of France
(514) 878-4385

Consulate General of Great Britain
(514) 866-5863

Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany
(514) 931-2277

Consulate General of Mexico
(514) 288-2502

Emergency

In case of an emergency, dial 9-1-1 to reach operators connected to the fire station, police station, and ambulances.
Québec Poison Control Centre: 1 800 463-5060

Time Zones
Montréal switches to Eastern Daylight Time (summer time zone) on the first Sunday of April and returns to Eastern Standard Time (winter time zone) on the last Sunday of October. The time difference between Montréal time and Greenwich Mean Time is less than 4 hours in the summer and less than 5 hours in the winter.

Electricity
Electrical outlets in Canada provide the same current as in the United States–110 volts (60 cycles). If you are traveling from Europe or elsewhere, you will need an adapter to use your small appliances, if they are designed for a different standard.

Public Transport
Public transport is a great way to get around Montréal. Notice those big blue signs with the white arrows? That's the way to the city's underground métro system–one of the safest in the world. The métro is fast and it links all of downtown and major tourist destinations, as well as connecting to Montréal's frequent bus service and the train.

You can purchase individual tickets, or convenient one- or three-day passes for unlimited travel on bus and métro.

If your trip requires both métro and bus, make sure to get a transfer from the bus driver or in the métro station (the tall silver boxes once you're inside the turnstiles); transfers are valid for 90 minutes. The time that is printed on it indicates when the validity period will end.

Fares

Adult fare (bus and métro): $2.75
Strip of 6 tickets: $11.75
The metro and bus Tourist Card : 1 day, $9.00; 3 days, $17.00

Métro schedule:

Orange line:
Monday to Friday and Sunday, 5:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m; Saturday, 5:30 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Green line:
Monday to Friday and Sunday, 5:30 a.m. to 12:35 a.m.; Saturday, 5:30 a.m. to 1:05 a.m.

Yellow line:
Monday to Friday and Sunday, 5:30 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturday, 5:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Blue line:
Everyday, 5:30 a.m. to 12:15 a.m.

Accessibility for people with disabilities

Accessibility for people with restricted physical ability

Establishments have been assessed accessible according to criteria set by Kéroul and approved by the Ministère du Tourisme du Québec. For people with restricted physical ability, Kéroul provides information on tourism and culture.

Kéroul
4545 Pierre-De Coubertin Avenue
P. O. Box 1000 , Station M
Montréal, Québec H1V 3R2
Tel.: (514) 252-3104
Fax: (514) 254-0766
www.keroul.qc.ca
infos@keroul.qc.ca
General Manager: André Leclerc

Total Access: The handicapped person can enter and move around the establishment without assistance.

Partial Access: The handicapped person requires assistance to enter and move around the establishment.

Tourist and Leisure Companion for persons living with a disability

Some tourist and leisure activity sites give free access for the companion of persons living with a disability or a mental health problem, when they visit tourist and leisure activity sites.

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Where to Stay

Hôtel InterContinental Montréal

Hotel

360 Saint-Antoine Street West
Montréal
(Québec)
H2Y 3X4
Canada

514 987-9900 (Telephone)
1 800 361-3600 (Toll Free)
(514) 847-8730 (Fax)

www.montreal.intercontinental.com

AVERAGE RATES (IN CANADIAN DOLLAR)

$159.00 to $595.00 Double Occupancy

Centrally located in the heart of the Quartier international, between Old Montréal and downtown, the Hôtel InterContinental Montréal is within convenient walking distance of the city's most notable business and leisure attractions, finest shopping and entertainment. The hotel offers its guests a world of total comfort in its 357 richly appointed guest rooms, including 23 luxurious suites, fine dining in its renowned restaurant, Les Continents or a light meal and drink at its piano-bar, Le Cristallin, or its bistro, Chez Plume. The hotel faces the Palais des congrès (Convention Centre) and links directly to the underground pedestrian network.

Appartement-Hôtel (L' )

Apartment-Hotel

455 Sherbrooke Street West
Montréal
(Québec)
H3A 1B7
Canada

514 284-3634 (Telephone)
1 800 363-3010 (Toll Free)
(514) 287-1431 (Fax)

www.appartementhotel.com

AVERAGE RATES (IN CANADIAN DOLLARS)

$112.00 to $186.00 Double Occupancy

Located on prestigious Sherbrooke Street, a short walk from McGill University, Place des Arts and metro stations, L'Appartement Hôtel offers 126 studios and suites, including fully equipped kitchenettes, free high-speed internet access and continental breakfast as well as all the conveniences of home. Our rooftop indoor swimming pool and sundeck offer spectacular views of Mont-Royal and downtown.

Le Place d'Armes Hôtel & Suites

Hotel

55 Saint-Jacques Street
Montréal
(Québec)
H2Y 3X2
Canada

514 842-1887 (Telephone)
1 888 450-1887 (Toll Free)
(514) 842-6469 (Fax)

www.hotelplacedarmes.com

AVERAGE RATES (IN CANADIAN DOLLARS)
$185.00 to $1200.00 Double Occupancy

One of Old Montréal's most popular boutique hotels has been recently renovated to offer more luxurious rooms, including studios with balconies and penthouse suites. Signature features such as stone and brick walls, fireplaces in every room, as well as state-of-the-art electronic equipment are all part of the hotel's reputation for impeccable style and charm. Guests can also relax in the inviting atmosphere of its restaurant, Aix Cuisine du Terroir or bar, Suite 701 , or relax in its spa with hammam steam bath, the first of its kind in Montréal. Interior valet parking is also available.

Hyatt Regency Montréal

Hotel

1255 Jeanne-Mance Street
P. O. Box 130
Montréal
(Québec)

H5B 1E5
Canada

514 982-1234 (Telephone)
1 800 361-8234 (Toll Free)
(514) 285-1243 (Fax)
www.montreal.hyatt.com

AVERAGE RATES (IN CANADIAN DOLLARS

$149.00 to $299.00 Double Occupancy

The Hyatt Regency Montréal has recently invested close to 20 million in its rooms, suites, restaurant and bar to offer its guests impeccable style and comfort. The Regency Club with private salon and terrace has also been added to provide unparalleled service. Access the hotel by its main lobby, as well as by the underground city, connects to the métro (subway), the Palais des congrès (Convention Centre), the Complexe Desjardins, the Place des Arts and the Musée d'art contemporain.

ACCESS AND TRANSPORTATION

Transportation

Maps

Map of the Metro

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What to do in Montreal

MAIN ATTRACTIONS

 Old Montreal : Located between the river and the city centre, Old Montréal and the Old Port will take you on a historic tour of a great North American metropolis. So much of Montréal's unique past is still visible today—from the place where the city was founded in 1642, to physical evidence of all periods, such as the French colony's winding paths, remarkable 18th- and 19th-century architecture and the first Canadian skyscrapers. Architectural lighting has made the Old Port and Old Montréal more romantic and charming than ever, highlighting their rich past and the museums, boutiques, sidewalk cafés and public places that are alive with activities all year long.

The Marché Bonsecours , recognized as one of the ten most beautiful heritage buildings in Canada , the Marche was the city's main agricultural marketplace for over a century. It also housed a concert hall and even served as a city hall. Recent renovations have turned it once again into a marketplace that also features sidewalk cafés, shops and exhibitions. The Marché Bonsecours is a proud showcase for Québec artists, designers and artisans.

Quays of the Old Port of Montréal: The Quays of the Old Port of Montréal is a 2.5-km-long recreational and tourist park and offers a variety of outdoor activities for every taste, including cruises, excursions, exhibitions, events and entertainment. It also offers a wide range of indoor activities, especially at the Montréal Science Centre. In winter, you can skate on the outdoor artificial rink to really make the most of the season.

The Three Courthouses : Inaugurated in 1856, the old courthouse at number 155 subscribed to the very sober neo-classic tradition typical of the first half of the 19th century; the top floor and dome were added later. The 1925 version (Ernest-Cormier building at number 100) features a return to classic simplicity and an imposing colonnade. From 1925 until the 1970s, the old courthouse handled civil issues while the new one dealt with criminal matters. The modern courthouse at 1 Notre-Dame East now handles all cases. The Ernest-Cormier building houses the Québec Court of Appeal.

Champ de Mars: This huge public expanse surrounded by trees is a perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. It also offers a superb view of downtown Montréal and fascinating historical remains. The two lines of stone running across the surface like a double backbone are one of the few spots in present-day Montréal where you can still see physical evidence of the fortified town of yesteryear.

The City Hall, Montréal City Hall has a more turbulent history than its peaceful façade suggests. The building went up between 1872 and 1878, and survived a severe fire in 1922. And it was from this balcony that French President General de Gaulle uttered his famous “Vive le Québec libre!” ("Long live free Québec") during a state visit in 1967. Take a moment to admire the Hall of Honour or, better yet, sign up for a guided tour. At dusk, when it is lit up it is absolutely spectacular.

McGill University : Founded following a bequest from James McGill, a Montréal fur trader born in Glasgow , McGill University received its charter from King George IV in 1821. The downtown campus comprises more than 80 buildings on 80 acres of land.

Montréal Tower / Olympic Park : Built for the 1976 Summer Olympic Games, the Olympic Stadium is the Park's centerpiece. Impressive in size and shape, and topped by the tallest inclined tower in the world. A funicular-type elevator brings visitors to the top three observation floors, where they have a superb view of Montréal and its surroundings.

Churches

 Mary Queen of the World Cathedral: Inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in Rome , this Catholic cathedral was built at the end of the 19th century in the heart of what was then the city's Anglo-Protestant sector. Inside, a superb gilded neo-baroque baldachin overlooks the altar. In the transept, paintings by Georges Delfosse illustrate the historic beginnings of Montréal.

The Notre-Dame Church : A masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, Notre-Dame Basilica was built between 1824 and 1829. The magnificent interior sculpted in wood, paint and gold leaf and the boldly modern design of the Notre-Dame du Sacré-Coeur Chapel, captivate hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Paintings, sculptures and stained-glass windows illustrate biblical passages as well as 350 years of parish history. Daily tours are offered in French and English. In the evening a sound and light show presents the founding of Montréal and the Notre-Dame Basilica. This state-of-the-art presentation highlights the Basilica's exceptional works of art and brings to life its cultural, architectural and spiritual heritage.

Saint Joseph 's Oratory of Mount Royal Saint Joseph 's Oratory atop Mount Royal is one of the world's most visited shrines. The basilica's huge dome reaches 97 metres and is second only in height to Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome . The sheer size of it contrasts sharply with its frail founder, Brother André, the humble doorkeeper who had initiated its construction in 1904. The shrine devoted to Saint Joseph consists of a primitive chapel, a votive chapel, a crypt and a basilica large enough to accommodate 10,000 worshippers. Relics of Brother André and many ex-voto of miraculously cured pilgrims are exhibited. The basilica's great organs and 52 bell chimes will occasionally rekindle solemn works of great composers.

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