Couples young and old can enjoy many of the romantic sites that Montreal has to offer.
If you’re planning a honeymoon, one of the nicest cities in Canada to visit is Montreal, but you don’t have to be newly married to take advantage of the romantic sites and locations along the St. Lawrence River. Revive your marriage by spending the weekend or a few days somewhere new. Here are eight of the best sites to rekindle your love.
Romantic Sites on Montréal
Montréal Botanical Garden: Even if you aren’t a horticulturist, you will enjoy the beauty of the 20 thematic gardens, greenhouses and pavilion. Guided tours are available, or else just walk through the more than 75 hectares holding hands and talking about your dreams and aspirations. Don’t forget to turn off your phone and focus on your partner.
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: Since 1860, the museum has been showcasing fine art and sculptures. You can stroll through a sculpture garden, enjoy stained glass windows or classical artwork in one of the beautifully designed pavilions. The museum offers permanent collections of Canadian artists and typically has special exhibitions on tour.
Biodome: Experience a rainforest or the sub-polar regions in the Biodome all within walking distance. It has more than 4,500 animals and 500 plant species all under one roof.
Notre-Dame Basilica: Although the Basilica has religious roots, it draws in many visitors each year who want to explore the architecture and beauty of the parish. You’ll get a 20-minute guided tour as part of your admission and have the opportunity to see one of the best examples of Gothic Revival architecture in North America.
Parc-Jean Drapeau: The parc offers the perfect opportunity for the adventurist. Depending on the season when you visit, you could enjoy the beach, museums, swimming, roller coasters and more. Check out their calendar for special concerts and events.
Marché Bonsecours: A historical building with its own heritage, the Marche now houses boutiques and restaurants that feature Quebec artisans. It’s a must-stop on any trip to Montreal at least once to enjoy the local flavor and take home a piece of the area.
Old Port of Montreal: The port offers a number of activities and attractions, such as the Montreal Clock Tower, the Science Center, access to the riverfront and many cultural events throughout the year. Rent a bicycle, Segway or roller blades to explore the 2-kilometer area filled with shopping and restaurants. You could easily spend your entire vacation enjoying the port and its activities.
World Trade Centre Montreal: Located close to downtown, the Trade Center is a hotel and office building with indoor parking, restaurants and boutiques. Take a historic discovery tour or enjoy one of the special events that goes on throughout the year.
These eight locations are just a few of the many attractions in Montreal where you and your partner can get away from your normal life to reconnect. Take a walking tour of the city of just drive around and see the spectacular architecture, some of which dates back to the 16th century. The city has been designated a UNESCO City of Design, one of just three in the world. Explore the underground complexes for a different shopping experience. There are a number of beautiful churches, not only the Notre-Dame Basilica.
Montreal is home to many local restaurants where you can enjoy exotic food from other countries or experience the local flavors of Canada. It has a wealth of accommodations, from five-star hotels with all the amenities to small, intimate bed and breakfast inns. You won’t need a passport to travel to this historic and modern city that has been named Canada’s Cultural Capital by Monocle magazine. It truly could enhance your romantic life.
Notre Dame Basilica Montreal is one of the many historical churches to visit while in Montreal.
Montreal is home to a number of beautiful historical churches. Although it might not be the city you think of when you consider religious history in Canada, it is home to four Roman Catholic basilicas. These churches stand out as a centre of liturgy in the church’s tradition. Only 1,580 churches around the world have been designated a basilica. Montreal houses a number of other stunning religious buildings. Here are seven churches that you should take time to visit and experience, even if you don’t belong to the faith.
Different Historical Churches in Montreal
Church of La Visitation-de-la-Bienheureuse-Vierge-Marie – Although this church is not the oldest church in the city, it does have the oldest original structure and interior. It was finished in 1752, but the stained glass windows were not added until 1893. This structure does not have the exterior presence that some of the basilicas have, but the interior is absolutely breathtaking.
Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel – Another very old church founded in 1655. The structure was rebuilt in the late 18th century on the ruins of another church. There’s a museum attached to the church where visitors can learn more about the church history and understand the importance of the altar painting.
Saint Patrick’s Basilica – It took four years to construct this church, and it’s been preserved quite well since its completion in 1847. Saint Patrick’s claim is that it is the oldest English-speaking Roman Catholic church in the city. It houses more than 150 oil paintings. You might want to count the shamrocks or fleur-de-lis symbols.
Church of Saint-Pierre-Apotre – Built in the mid-19th century, this church has also preserved its original interior. The only major change in the original was the installation of stained glass windows about 30 years after it was built. Make sure to visit the Chapel of Hope, which has been dedicated to the victims of AIDS.
Saint Joseph’s Oratory – The Oratory is a national shrine and is Canada’s largest church. The architectural style is Renaissance. Stroll through the monumental walkway any season, but spring and summer are the best times to visit if you enjoy beautiful gardens. Plan to spend some time in the art museum, too.
Notre Dame Basilica of Montreal – If you can’t make it to Paris to see the beautiful Notre Dame cathedral, visit this basilica in this local city. The pipe organ and wood sculptures make this church stand out as one of the city’s top attractions. This structure dates back almost 200 years to 1824.
Church of Saint Genevieve – This church was founded in 1732. The structure wasn’t built until 1844, and it took another 20 years to finish the interior, which has been preserved for all to enjoy the beautiful white and gold colours. It’s a stunning monument that you shouldn’t miss.
Churches are vital to every community. The history of these churches tells a story about the people that helps us more deeply understand the city. Take some time to tour religious buildings and find out more about the heritage of your neighbors.
Not everyone has the money to go to some exotic overseas location on their honeymoon. There’s plenty of great places right here in Canada that don’t require a passport or long flights across the country. Spend your time exploring this beautiful country instead of traveling to some remote destination where you have to spend the first day recovering from jet leg. Here are some ideas you may not have thought about for your post-wedding vacation.
Whitehorse, Yukon
Come see the Northern Lights and enjoy the most romantic view on the planet when you visit this capital city. With a population of less than 30,000, you’ll have plenty of privacy for romantic walks along the historic sites or at the outdoor attractions. There are a number of trails available for both motorized and non-motorized travel. For a peaceful honeymoon in the great outdoors, Whitehorse is a great place.
Montreal, Quebec
The second largest city in Canada, Montreal is the ninth largest in North America. It’s home to all types of music, but is probably best known for producing jazz musicians. There’s plenty of art museums and architecture if you want to get some culture on your honeymoon. Montreal is also home to a number of sports teams. Depending on the season, you’ll have lots of options for great outings to make exciting memories.
Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick
Home to the highest tidal range in the world, Bay of Fundy is a romantic getaway for brides and grooms everywhere. Take a walk along the beach or kayak down one of the many rivers when the tide is high. Visit a winery for a special bottle to take home, or enjoy whale watching during the right season. Bikes are available for rental to enjoy the rustic villages and trails during the day. Small communities offer unique restaurants and local artisan work for souvenirs.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is the eighth largest city in Canada, but named as one of the top five cities worldwide for livability. You’ll have indoor and outdoor options, with luxurious accommodations developed when Vancouver hosted the Winter Olympics. Art, music, and shopping are close at hand if you want to experience an urban getaway, while skiing and other outdoor sports complexes are within driving range for an active day of fun. You can explore the beach or the forest, both in the same day if you like.
Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia
For a natural vacation near glacial formations, the fishing village of Peggy’s Cove offers fresh seafood, lighthouses, and ocean walks. Stay at one of the inns or cottages along the beach to wake up to a sunrise over the bay or enjoy the sunset right from your own dock. There’s plenty to do and see, or you could just pack a picnic and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
Quebec City, Quebec
As one of the oldest cities in North America, Quebec City is one of the prettiest with a number of historical landmarks. Enjoy the Parc Aquarium du Quebec on one of your dates. Come see hundreds of animals unique to North America and learn about the conservation efforts to protect the environment. For a more urban getaway, go shopping or enjoy the numerous nightclubs. If you enjoy sports, you’ll find professional teams of all kinds. There’s so much to see and do to make memories in Quebec City when you’re on your honeymoon.
Banff, Alberta
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banff, Alberta is a small town in the Alberta Rockies. It sits 1,400 meters above sea level, making it the community with the second highest elevation in Alberta. Come for the hot springs or the outdoor sports. It’s a resort town with plenty to keep the two of you busy. There are a number of hotels and cottages offering accommodations all year long.
Taking a trip to a tourist destination like a big city is fun and romantic, and maybe even a bit frivolous. If you’re visiting Montrealyou may be interested in seeing the sights and experiencing the dining and nightlife atmosphere. When planning a weekend trip you may research things to do near the Marriott Hotel, or if there will be any festivals in town. However, if you’re thinking about a long-term move to Canada’s second-largest city, you probably have a whole different set of concerns that may extend further than where to eat and what to see.
Moving to a new city means meeting new people, settling into a new neighborhood, and finding your niche in the community. Many people may have concerns about the culture of their new city, including the religious atmosphere and political goings-on. Whether you are religious or non-religious, you may want to increase your understanding of your new city by researching the important issues related to religion in Montreal.
Religious Issues of a Beautiful City
This historic, French-speaking city was mainly Catholic for several decades. Currently, the area is fairly diverse and multi-cultural. Christianity is still the religion most widely practiced in Quebec, followed by Islam and Judaism. A recent and ongoing religious debate began at the end of last year, with a proposed legislative ban on city officials wearing visible religious symbols. The proposal, Bill 60, is a move toward secularism that would ban religious clothing like hijabs, jewelry with religious symbols, and other overtly religious signs.
Many people, religious and non-religious alike, have raised opposition to the secular move, calling it an attack on religious freedom, as well as a blatant scheme by Parti Quebecois (the political party that advocates for national sovereignty for Quebec) to attract media attention. There have been public protests against the ban as well as many furious articles and blogs written to speak out against Bill 60. The bill’s supporters advocate a move toward secularism by banning civil servants from wearing potential divisive “ostentatious” religious symbols.
Get Involved
If you’re planning on moving to Quebec, you may be participating in the area’s political process in the near future. You may also be looking for a conventional religious community to become a member of – or even a non-conventional group. Keep abreast of the important issues facing your community and your family. Our blog features both secular and religious-based topics. Universal Life Church is an inclusive community that honors all faiths including both religious and non-religious persons.
Couples young and old can enjoy many of the romantic sites that Montreal has to offer.
If you’re planning a honeymoon, one of the nicest cities in Canada to visit is Montreal, but you don’t have to be newly married to take advantage of the romantic sites and locations along the St. Lawrence River. Revive your marriage by spending the weekend or a few days somewhere new. Here are eight of the best sites to rekindle your love.
Romantic Sites on Montréal
Montréal Botanical Garden: Even if you aren’t a horticulturist, you will enjoy the beauty of the 20 thematic gardens, greenhouses and pavilion. Guided tours are available, or else just walk through the more than 75 hectares holding hands and talking about your dreams and aspirations. Don’t forget to turn off your phone and focus on your partner.
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: Since 1860, the museum has been showcasing fine art and sculptures. You can stroll through a sculpture garden, enjoy stained glass windows or classical artwork in one of the beautifully designed pavilions. The museum offers permanent collections of Canadian artists and typically has special exhibitions on tour.
Biodome: Experience a rainforest or the sub-polar regions in the Biodome all within walking distance. It has more than 4,500 animals and 500 plant species all under one roof.
Notre-Dame Basilica: Although the Basilica has religious roots, it draws in many visitors each year who want to explore the architecture and beauty of the parish. You’ll get a 20-minute guided tour as part of your admission and have the opportunity to see one of the best examples of Gothic Revival architecture in North America.
Parc-Jean Drapeau: The parc offers the perfect opportunity for the adventurist. Depending on the season when you visit, you could enjoy the beach, museums, swimming, roller coasters and more. Check out their calendar for special concerts and events.
Marché Bonsecours: A historical building with its own heritage, the Marche now houses boutiques and restaurants that feature Quebec artisans. It’s a must-stop on any trip to Montreal at least once to enjoy the local flavor and take home a piece of the area.
Old Port of Montreal: The port offers a number of activities and attractions, such as the Montreal Clock Tower, the Science Center, access to the riverfront and many cultural events throughout the year. Rent a bicycle, Segway or roller blades to explore the 2-kilometer area filled with shopping and restaurants. You could easily spend your entire vacation enjoying the port and its activities.
World Trade Centre Montreal: Located close to downtown, the Trade Center is a hotel and office building with indoor parking, restaurants and boutiques. Take a historic discovery tour or enjoy one of the special events that goes on throughout the year.
These eight locations are just a few of the many attractions in Montreal where you and your partner can get away from your normal life to reconnect. Take a walking tour of the city of just drive around and see the spectacular architecture, some of which dates back to the 16th century. The city has been designated a UNESCO City of Design, one of just three in the world. Explore the underground complexes for a different shopping experience. There are a number of beautiful churches, not only the Notre-Dame Basilica.
Montreal is home to many local restaurants where you can enjoy exotic food from other countries or experience the local flavors of Canada. It has a wealth of accommodations, from five-star hotels with all the amenities to small, intimate bed and breakfast inns. You won’t need a passport to travel to this historic and modern city that has been named Canada’s Cultural Capital by Monocle magazine. It truly could enhance your romantic life.
Notre Dame Basilica Montreal is one of the many historical churches to visit while in Montreal.
Montreal is home to a number of beautiful historical churches. Although it might not be the city you think of when you consider religious history in Canada, it is home to four Roman Catholic basilicas. These churches stand out as a centre of liturgy in the church’s tradition. Only 1,580 churches around the world have been designated a basilica. Montreal houses a number of other stunning religious buildings. Here are seven churches that you should take time to visit and experience, even if you don’t belong to the faith.
Different Historical Churches in Montreal
Church of La Visitation-de-la-Bienheureuse-Vierge-Marie – Although this church is not the oldest church in the city, it does have the oldest original structure and interior. It was finished in 1752, but the stained glass windows were not added until 1893. This structure does not have the exterior presence that some of the basilicas have, but the interior is absolutely breathtaking.
Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel – Another very old church founded in 1655. The structure was rebuilt in the late 18th century on the ruins of another church. There’s a museum attached to the church where visitors can learn more about the church history and understand the importance of the altar painting.
Saint Patrick’s Basilica – It took four years to construct this church, and it’s been preserved quite well since its completion in 1847. Saint Patrick’s claim is that it is the oldest English-speaking Roman Catholic church in the city. It houses more than 150 oil paintings. You might want to count the shamrocks or fleur-de-lis symbols.
Church of Saint-Pierre-Apotre – Built in the mid-19th century, this church has also preserved its original interior. The only major change in the original was the installation of stained glass windows about 30 years after it was built. Make sure to visit the Chapel of Hope, which has been dedicated to the victims of AIDS.
Saint Joseph’s Oratory – The Oratory is a national shrine and is Canada’s largest church. The architectural style is Renaissance. Stroll through the monumental walkway any season, but spring and summer are the best times to visit if you enjoy beautiful gardens. Plan to spend some time in the art museum, too.
Notre Dame Basilica of Montreal – If you can’t make it to Paris to see the beautiful Notre Dame cathedral, visit this basilica in this local city. The pipe organ and wood sculptures make this church stand out as one of the city’s top attractions. This structure dates back almost 200 years to 1824.
Church of Saint Genevieve – This church was founded in 1732. The structure wasn’t built until 1844, and it took another 20 years to finish the interior, which has been preserved for all to enjoy the beautiful white and gold colours. It’s a stunning monument that you shouldn’t miss.
Churches are vital to every community. The history of these churches tells a story about the people that helps us more deeply understand the city. Take some time to tour religious buildings and find out more about the heritage of your neighbors.
Not everyone has the money to go to some exotic overseas location on their honeymoon. There’s plenty of great places right here in Canada that don’t require a passport or long flights across the country. Spend your time exploring this beautiful country instead of traveling to some remote destination where you have to spend the first day recovering from jet leg. Here are some ideas you may not have thought about for your post-wedding vacation.
Whitehorse, Yukon
Come see the Northern Lights and enjoy the most romantic view on the planet when you visit this capital city. With a population of less than 30,000, you’ll have plenty of privacy for romantic walks along the historic sites or at the outdoor attractions. There are a number of trails available for both motorized and non-motorized travel. For a peaceful honeymoon in the great outdoors, Whitehorse is a great place.
Montreal, Quebec
The second largest city in Canada, Montreal is the ninth largest in North America. It’s home to all types of music, but is probably best known for producing jazz musicians. There’s plenty of art museums and architecture if you want to get some culture on your honeymoon. Montreal is also home to a number of sports teams. Depending on the season, you’ll have lots of options for great outings to make exciting memories.
Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick
Home to the highest tidal range in the world, Bay of Fundy is a romantic getaway for brides and grooms everywhere. Take a walk along the beach or kayak down one of the many rivers when the tide is high. Visit a winery for a special bottle to take home, or enjoy whale watching during the right season. Bikes are available for rental to enjoy the rustic villages and trails during the day. Small communities offer unique restaurants and local artisan work for souvenirs.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is the eighth largest city in Canada, but named as one of the top five cities worldwide for livability. You’ll have indoor and outdoor options, with luxurious accommodations developed when Vancouver hosted the Winter Olympics. Art, music, and shopping are close at hand if you want to experience an urban getaway, while skiing and other outdoor sports complexes are within driving range for an active day of fun. You can explore the beach or the forest, both in the same day if you like.
Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia
For a natural vacation near glacial formations, the fishing village of Peggy’s Cove offers fresh seafood, lighthouses, and ocean walks. Stay at one of the inns or cottages along the beach to wake up to a sunrise over the bay or enjoy the sunset right from your own dock. There’s plenty to do and see, or you could just pack a picnic and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
Quebec City, Quebec
As one of the oldest cities in North America, Quebec City is one of the prettiest with a number of historical landmarks. Enjoy the Parc Aquarium du Quebec on one of your dates. Come see hundreds of animals unique to North America and learn about the conservation efforts to protect the environment. For a more urban getaway, go shopping or enjoy the numerous nightclubs. If you enjoy sports, you’ll find professional teams of all kinds. There’s so much to see and do to make memories in Quebec City when you’re on your honeymoon.
Banff, Alberta
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banff, Alberta is a small town in the Alberta Rockies. It sits 1,400 meters above sea level, making it the community with the second highest elevation in Alberta. Come for the hot springs or the outdoor sports. It’s a resort town with plenty to keep the two of you busy. There are a number of hotels and cottages offering accommodations all year long.
Taking a trip to a tourist destination like a big city is fun and romantic, and maybe even a bit frivolous. If you’re visiting Montrealyou may be interested in seeing the sights and experiencing the dining and nightlife atmosphere. When planning a weekend trip you may research things to do near the Marriott Hotel, or if there will be any festivals in town. However, if you’re thinking about a long-term move to Canada’s second-largest city, you probably have a whole different set of concerns that may extend further than where to eat and what to see.
Moving to a new city means meeting new people, settling into a new neighborhood, and finding your niche in the community. Many people may have concerns about the culture of their new city, including the religious atmosphere and political goings-on. Whether you are religious or non-religious, you may want to increase your understanding of your new city by researching the important issues related to religion in Montreal.
Religious Issues of a Beautiful City
This historic, French-speaking city was mainly Catholic for several decades. Currently, the area is fairly diverse and multi-cultural. Christianity is still the religion most widely practiced in Quebec, followed by Islam and Judaism. A recent and ongoing religious debate began at the end of last year, with a proposed legislative ban on city officials wearing visible religious symbols. The proposal, Bill 60, is a move toward secularism that would ban religious clothing like hijabs, jewelry with religious symbols, and other overtly religious signs.
Many people, religious and non-religious alike, have raised opposition to the secular move, calling it an attack on religious freedom, as well as a blatant scheme by Parti Quebecois (the political party that advocates for national sovereignty for Quebec) to attract media attention. There have been public protests against the ban as well as many furious articles and blogs written to speak out against Bill 60. The bill’s supporters advocate a move toward secularism by banning civil servants from wearing potential divisive “ostentatious” religious symbols.
Get Involved
If you’re planning on moving to Quebec, you may be participating in the area’s political process in the near future. You may also be looking for a conventional religious community to become a member of – or even a non-conventional group. Keep abreast of the important issues facing your community and your family. Our blog features both secular and religious-based topics. Universal Life Church is an inclusive community that honors all faiths including both religious and non-religious persons.
