Montreal is a charismatic and vibrant city. European charm and North American spirit come together to give Montreal its unique look and character. The largest city in Quebec and the second-largest in Canada, Montreal is a cultural powerhouse.
The city is named after Mount Royal, a triple-peaked hill located at the heart of the city. Montreal also has waterfront areas that make it a picturesque destination. Plus, there are museums and marketplaces to explore, too.
Add a warm and welcoming crowd to that, and you know you are in for a great experience in Montreal. But before you leave, be sure to purchase travel medical insurance as protection against unexpected accidents, injuries, illnesses, or travel mishaps.
Montreal Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
When you are vacationing in Montreal, you are outside your local medical insurance provider's coverage. Travel medical insurance offers financial coverage for medical expenses when you are abroad.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Montreal?
You don't need travel insurance to enter Montreal, but be aware that your domestic insurance provider won't cover your medical bills in Montreal. If you face a medical emergency, having Montreal travel medical insurance will save you from financial stress. Even if nothing goes wrong, you'll be able to enjoy your trip with complete peace of mind.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Montreal?
Montreal has a robust healthcare system. In the case of a medical emergency, you are likely to get immediate and appropriate care, but the cost of healthcare will drain your finances. In the absence of travel medical insurance, you will have to make out-of-pocket payments. The best way to safeguard yourself from the unplanned financial burden is to buy travel medical insurance. You can get coverage for emergency medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, accidental death & dismemberment, and more.
Things to Do for Travelers in Montreal
Montreal is home to at least 50 sites of historical importance, 40 museums, and many more sites showcasing natural beauty. It can get overwhelming to decide what to include on your Montreal itinerary. Here are our top picks that you shouldn't miss:
Explore the Historical Glory at Old Montreal
Established in 1642 by French colonizers, Old Montreal is the area located right next to the Saint Lawrence River. This is where you can walk around the cobblestone paths, discover amazing buildings, and enjoy mouthwatering dishes at the many local restaurants.
See Stellar Sights of the City from Mount Royal
Mount Royal is located in the middle of the city but offers a perfect escape from the city buzz. Adventure-lovers can go ice skating or cross-country skiing. You can also take a stroll along the paved path, if you just want to spend some leisure time.
Have Mouthwatering Delicacies
While you don't need a reminder to get a bottle or two of maple syrup as souvenirs, don't forget to try some of the local delicacies while you are in Montreal. Poutine (chips with cheese and gravy), a Fairmount bagel (hand-formed and baked in a wood-fired oven), and the creamy salt-beef sandwich are must-tries.
Explore the Unseen Underground City
Below the city of Montreal is an underground city spanning 20 miles (about 32 kilometers). This underground city is home to shops, cinemas, restaurants, and even a university. Air-conditioned in summers and heated in winters, it is the perfect place to experience something new.
Hop Across the Many Museums
Montreal has many museums that cater to different interests. If you are traveling with family and kids, visit the Redpath Museum and enjoy your time learning about dinosaurs and Egyptian mummies. Art enthusiasts can visit the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Pointe-à-Calière is perfect for history and archeology lovers.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Montreal
Montreal is among the safest cities in not just Quebec and Canada, but also in North America. Don't let skewed media coverage and biased traveler accounts give you second thoughts about the trip. All you need is common sense and general caution to have a safe trip. If you are street smart, your trip to Montreal is likely to conclude without trouble. Here are a few things to know that will keep you better prepared:
Opportunistic Crime
When you are out in public, touring the city, keep your possessions close. Don't lose sight of your valuables, and avoid flashing anything of value.
Car-Related Crimes
Montreal is known for auto crimes. It is nothing as major as carjacking, but still, leaving valuables on display in your car is not recommended. If you want to park for longer durations (like overnight), it is best to go for indoor parking.
Weather Worries
The Canadian cold warrants you staying prepared. If your Montreal vacation is planned during the winter months (especially January and February), make sure you have packed enough warm clothes. Stay cautious if you drive, and stick to public transport if you aren't accustomed to driving in snow.
Card Scams
Though not common, card scams aren't impossible when in Montreal. Swipe your card only at reliable shops. It is best to use cash for smaller payments.
Before You Travel to Montreal - Do This
Before you start exploring Montreal, also known as the Paris of Canada, here's what you should do:
Learn a little French. Montreal is a bilingual city. Quebec's official language is French, which means any knowledge of French will come in handy. English is also widely used in Montreal, but it is better to know at least the basics of French.
Know the directions. Montreal has a confusing way of referring to directions. "North" in Montreal usually means northwest or even west sometimes. This is why Montreal is also referred to as the only city where the Sun sets in the north. Make sure you keep this local quirk in mind when asking for directions.
Buy travel medical insurance. Medical emergencies and trip cancellations can ruin your trip. Insurance makes sure they don't become a financial burden too. Enter some basic information about your trip, compare a wide variety of applicable plans, and select the one that best meets your own personal needs.