It depends on the time of the year… In Summer you can stroll in one of the city’s many parks, and in Winter, you’ll discover all of Montreal’s underground and indoor cosy spots.
Montreal is famous for its harsh winters, but the city has embraced its cold climate with an extensive network of underground spaces known as the RÉSO (La Ville Souterraine or “The Underground City”). This system of interconnected underground complexes covers over 33 kilometers, allowing locals and visitors to shop, dine, and explore without having to brave the snow and cold. Here are some of the best underground places in Montreal to spend time during winter:
1. RÉSO – The Underground City
The RÉSO is more than just a way to avoid the cold—it’s a vital part of Montreal’s urban experience. This subterranean network links shopping centers, hotels, museums, office buildings, and metro stations across downtown Montreal. It’s the perfect place for large-scale exploration during winter, and there are numerous highlights:
- Best for: Shopping, dining, and getting around in the cold.
Key Spots in the Underground City:
- Place Montreal Trust: One of the busiest shopping areas within the underground city, featuring popular stores like Zara, Winners, and Indigo.
- Complexe Desjardins: A massive shopping mall and business hub connected to the underground, with a variety of stores, restaurants, and events throughout the year.
- Eaton Centre: A central shopping destination with dozens of stores and food courts, conveniently connected to the McGill metro station.
- Les Cours Mont-Royal: A luxurious shopping center with high-end boutiques, located in a historical building with a gorgeous interior.
- Promenades Cathédrale: Built under Christ Church Cathedral, this space includes more shopping, as well as access to Montreal’s metro.
2. Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal)
While not entirely underground, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts has several underground galleries connecting its main pavilions. This world-class museum houses everything from European masterpieces to contemporary art. The underground areas are spacious, with modern architecture and exhibitions that will keep you warm and entertained for hours.
- Best for: Art lovers seeking culture during the winter.
- Tip: The underground tunnels here also link to other buildings, making it easy to stay indoors while museum-hopping.
3. Underground Cafés and Restaurants
Many of Montreal’s best restaurants, coffee shops, and bistros are nestled within the RÉSO, making it easy to dine out without leaving the warmth. Here are a few great places to grab a bite underground:
- Café Vasco Da Gama: A popular underground café known for its high-quality coffee and delicious sandwiches.
- BeaverTails (Queues de Castor): A classic Canadian treat, this sweet pastry is served underground in Complexe Desjardins.
- Food Courts: Many of the malls and complexes within the underground city feature diverse food courts, perfect for grabbing lunch while shopping.
4. Underground Entertainment – Scotiabank Theatre
The Scotiabank Theatre is a great place to escape the cold and catch the latest blockbuster films. Located underground, the theater is part of the Peel Metro network, making it easily accessible without ever stepping outside. With multiple screens and a large concession area, it’s a cozy retreat on cold winter days.
- Best for: Movie lovers looking for a warm escape.
5. Montréal en Lumière Festival – Illuminart
Montreal embraces winter with outdoor festivals, but for those looking to stay underground, the Montréal en Lumière Festival often includes Illuminart, an artistic light installation that can sometimes stretch into the underground city. Check festival schedules to see if the underground areas are part of this vibrant celebration of light.
- Best for: Winter festival lovers who want to stay warm while enjoying art installations.
6. Montreal’s Metro System
While not exactly a “destination,” the Montreal Metro itself is an essential part of the city’s underground life. The metro system runs through much of the underground city, making it a convenient way to travel between underground spaces. Many of the stations feature interesting art and architecture, offering more to explore.
- Best for: Efficient travel, exploring city art installations at different metro stations.
7. Beneath Place Ville Marie
Place Ville Marie is a key landmark in downtown Montreal and is home to an extensive underground shopping complex. It’s one of the central hubs of the RÉSO and offers shops, restaurants, and a spacious food court. You can spend hours walking through this subterranean space, discovering boutiques and small eateries.
- Best for: Shopping and relaxing in the heart of Montreal.
8. Old Montreal’s Underground Galleries and Shops
While Old Montreal is more famous for its charming above-ground streets, some parts of the area also have hidden underground spaces. For example, you’ll find art galleries and historical shops tucked into underground passages that add a mysterious and atmospheric touch to your visit.
- Best for: Exploring underground history and culture in the city’s most charming district.
9. Atrium Le 1000 – Indoor Ice Skating
One of Montreal’s coolest underground destinations is Atrium Le 1000, an indoor ice-skating rink located in the underground levels of the city’s tallest building, 1000 de La Gauchetière. It’s open year-round, and the glass ceiling provides a unique atmosphere for skaters of all levels. It’s an excellent option for groups or families looking for a fun winter activity without freezing in the snow.
- Best for: Indoor ice skating with a view of the city from below.
10. Complexe Guy-Favreau
Part of the RÉSO and near Chinatown, Complexe Guy-Favreau houses government offices, shops, and cafés. It’s connected to the Montreal metro and serves as a warm retreat during the winter. Though it’s not as bustling as other parts of the underground city, it’s worth visiting for its quieter, more local atmosphere.
- Best for: A less crowded, laid-back experience.
11. Bota Bota, Spa-sur-l’Eau
Although not technically underground, Bota Bota offers a unique and warm winter escape on the water. This floating spa, housed in a converted ferry on the St. Lawrence River, features saunas, steam baths, and hot tubs with stunning views of the city’s winter landscape. While you’ll have to step outside briefly, the spa is a haven of warmth and relaxation during the chilly season.
- Best for: Relaxing in luxury with a wintery view.
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