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It’s a true privilege to discover Montreal in the fall. Far from the summer crowds and the harshness of winter, the city reveals itself in a brilliant burst of color and a gentle light. The air turns crisp, and the entire city slows down. It’s the perfect time to walk around, letting yourself be guided by nothing but the scent of a good hot chocolate. While summer brings its share of festivals and endless sun, fall transforms the city into a sparkling golden jewel box.
Come for the food… and stay for the scenery! Let yourself be transformed by the cultural richness and unforgettable beauty of the city, freshly adorned in its coat of orange, yellow, and scarlet red. Whether you’re looking for flavors, wonder, or adventure, you’ll find what you’re looking for.
What to do in Montreal in the fall: Dining affordably during MTLàTABLE
If you really want to get to know a city’s soul, you have to sit at its table. In Montreal, MTLàTABLE is the go-to foodie event of the fall, running from October 30 to November 16, 2025. It’s when over 150 restaurants offer three-course menus at affordable prices, most under $50. This is a golden opportunity to treat yourself to a star-rated restaurant, discover a new neighborhood, or revisit an old favorite. The fun doesn’t stop at dinner, either: many restaurants also offer brunches for around $20.
And for foodies looking for something extra, there are the Signature Events, from themed evenings to workshops with renowned chefs. It’s time to let the magic happen.
Visiting Atwater Market
For a truly authentic experience, head to Atwater Market. If you go on a fall afternoon, you’ll see it’s a festival of colors and flavors. Along the Lachine Canal, the stalls overflow with fresh produce: all kinds of squash, juicy apples, Quebec cheeses, and artisanal ciders. It’s a paradise for picking up ingredients for a great meal or just grabbing a delicious snack on the go.
Don’t forget to try a genuine spiced pumpkin latte at one of the market’s small local cafes. Pair it with a fresh pastry for the perfect autumn treat. To get there, there’s nothing better than a bike ride on a BIXI along the canal, lined with blazing trees.
The ultimate fall activities: The Great Pumpkin Ball and Gardens of Light at the Montreal Botanical Garden
For families—or those who are still kids at heart—the Great Pumpkin Ball at Space for Life is a must-see. This fun and whimsical event takes place at the Montreal Botanical Garden and is part of a series of autumn celebrations that highlight the city’s playful side. You’ll find over 800 squashes and pumpkins, all carefully decorated.
As night falls, the Gardens of Light come to life. The Chinese Garden is lit up with traditional lanterns, casting magical reflections on the ponds and paths. The Japanese Garden invites you to meditate along a tranquil lighted path inspired by the cycle of the seasons. Finally, the First Nations Garden offers an intense multimedia experience celebrating the Cycle of Life, connecting visitors to Indigenous culture through art and light.
Whether you’re five or fifty, these light installations create an atmosphere full of wonder, perfect for a cool evening outdoors.
When to see foliage Montreal and is fall a good time to visit?
Montreal’s fall foliage is a living masterpiece. From the tree-lined streets in charming neighborhoods to the large urban parks, the city transforms into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows that never fail to amaze. One of the best places to admire this spectacle is Mount Royal Park. Walk its wooded trails leading to Beaver Lake or climb up to the Kondiaronk Belvedere in the afternoon to enjoy a breathtaking view of downtown Montreal with the mountains in the distance, framed by the season’s vibrant colors. Stunning photos are guaranteed!
Prefer a different perspective? Ride the Grande Roue de Montréal, a Ferris wheel located in the Old Port. On a clear day, the gondola offers a panoramic view that extends up to 28 kilometers, allowing you to see the full extent of Montreal’s autumn splendor.
You could also stroll through the picturesque Westmount Park, where a recently restored Victorian greenhouse offers a peaceful oasis in the middle of a vibrant, English-style urban landscape.
Other fantastic places to see the fall season foliage include Laurier Park (the favorite park of French expats in Montreal!) in the Plateau Mont-Royal, known for its relaxed atmosphere and charming tree-lined streets.
Take a day trip to admire the Quebec colors
While Montreal’s fall colours are impressive, if you have time, a trip outside the city will reward you with even more spectacular landscapes. Head to the Laurentians or the Eastern Townships—two regions that offer unforgettable views of Quebec’s vibrant fall landscapes.
To the north, the Laurentians are a paradise for hiking trails. They’re also known for rolling hills, towering tall trees, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages. Mont-Tremblant is magnificent in the fall, and you can even ride the gondola for a bird’s-eye view.
To the south, the Eastern Townships, with their vineyards and landscapes that look like the English countryside. Fall is the perfect time to visit local vineyards and taste some of Quebec’s best wines, many of which are made from unique cold-hardy grape varieties. It’s also the time to stop at a cider mill, a pumpkin patch, an apple orchard, or a picturesque village to taste local products. Bromont, Frelighsburg, and Sutton are particularly popular in the fall, offering everything from charming little shops to extravagant Halloween decorations!
Participate in Montreal’s autumn best things, events and festivals
As the leaves fall and the weather turns to grey, the city’s cultural calendar fills up. Montreal is bubbling with creative energy, and festivals follow one after another.
- MAPP_MTL: The digital art festival that transforms the city’s facades into giant works of art.
- POP Montreal: A must for indie music lovers, featuring new talent and emerging artists.
- Festival du Nouveau Cinéma and CINEMANIA: For film lovers, a curated program to discover films from here and elsewhere.
- La Grande Dégustation de Montréal: A weekend to explore wines and spirits from all over the world.
- Ramen Ramen Fest: Perfect for warming up with a good bowl of comforting soup.
