See The Provinces: Quebec

For months, we’ve been using this blog to highlight some of the diverse and beautiful cities located in the United States with our “See the States” series, but Monsey Bus charter buses can take you to our friendly, flannel-clad, maple syrup-loving neighbors to the north as well. With that in mind, let’s explore one of Canada’s cultural and tourism centers: Montreal.

Originally founded by French fur traders (and still a largely French-speaking city), Montreal grew to become first the capital of the Province of Canada and eventually the nation of Canada’s “Cultural Capital,” a vibrant town that combines the best elements of North American and French cities.

Visitors to the city can go in many directions: There’s the family-friendly museums and science activities like the magnificent Musée des Beaux-Arts, the ecosystem exploration of Biodôme, and the breath-taking space exhibits of the Cosmodôme. Or, in the opposite direction, visit the city’s famous dives and artist and musician hangouts like L’Escogriffe, the Copacabana, and La Croissanterie Figaro. Take in the sights, including the circus arts complex Tohu, the downtown gathering place Square Dorchester, and the still majestic Windsor Hotel, originally built in 1878.

And make sure you come hungry. Au Pied de Cochon is so famous it doesn’t even bother to post a sign, the reputation of its award-winning chef and extravagant dishes is enough to draw in the crowds. Torqué is similarly respected for its locally sourced gourmet meals. And don’t forget dessert at patisserie and chocolatier Juliette et Choclat.