The city of Montreal is bustling with tourists, especially those from the United States, who are drawn to its European-style charm and vibrant atmosphere. Last year, 11 million tourists visited the city, a number that officials believe will be surpassed in 2024. The director of Montreal Centre-Ville, Glenn Castanheira, is optimistic about the increasing tourist traffic and attributes it to more direct flights from the U.S. and other countries, as well as the favorable exchange rate for Americans. Many hotels in the city are already booked at 80%, and new modern establishments are attracting visitors. The culinary scene in Montreal is also a strong draw for tourists, with many restaurants depending on the summer season for a significant portion of their annual business.
One of the popular spots for tourists in Montreal is Place Jacques Cartier, where artist Manjit Singh Chatrik sets up his watercolor paintings to sell to passersby. Chatrik has been painting with watercolor for 50 years and looks forward to the tourist season every year. He can make hundreds of dollars each day during this time, as thousands of tourists visit the plaza. The energy and beauty of the city attract visitors from all over the world, with many expressing their admiration for the picturesque views and vibrant atmosphere. For Claudia Fiorilli, who recently moved her Caribbean restaurant Kwizinn to Old Montreal, the hope is that the influx of tourists will contribute to the success of her business.
While the city is buzzing with tourism, there are concerns about the impact of wildfires on the city’s air quality. Castanheira recalls a time when Montreal had the worst air quality in North America, which negatively affected tourism. He hopes that the forecast will bring clear skies and that tourists will inject millions of foreign dollars into the local economy. Despite the presence of construction cones throughout the city, Castanheira believes that they have more of an impact on locals than on visitors. The city’s charm, culinary scene, and cultural attractions continue to draw tourists, many of whom compare the city to European destinations like Paris.
As Montreal gears up for another busy tourist season, locals and businesses are looking forward to the economic boost that comes with the influx of visitors. The summer season is particularly crucial for restaurants, with many depending on tourist traffic for a significant portion of their yearly revenue. Officials are hopeful that the increasing number of direct flights to the city, along with the appeal of the favorable exchange rate for Americans, will continue to attract tourists in the coming years. The city’s Old Port, with its terraces, shops, and restaurants, is a major draw for visitors, who come to enjoy the outdoor atmosphere and take in the sights.
Overall, Montreal is poised to continue attracting large numbers of tourists, with officials optimistic about surpassing the previous year’s visitor numbers. The city’s unique blend of European charm, vibrant cultural scene, and renowned culinary offerings make it a popular destination for travelers from around the world. While concerns about air quality and construction projects exist, the overall outlook is positive, with hopes for clear skies, bustling streets, and a thriving economy fueled by tourism. With new flights, upgraded hotels, and a diverse array of attractions, Montreal is well-positioned to continue growing as a top tourist destination for years to come.
