Travel
Montréal vs Toronto: which of Canada’s large cities is best?
Heading to Canada? You are in for a deal with.
Nevertheless, it’s the second-largest nation on the earth, and you will not be capable of go to all of it on one journey. Some sacrifices must be made, which could embody making a selection between the 2 largest cities. Do you have to base your self in arty, festive Montréal, with its lovely parks and welcoming vibe? Or ought to or not it’s the varied and energetic metropolis of Toronto, with its delightfully diverse meals scene?
We requested two journey writers to make the case for the Canadian metropolis closest to their hearts.
Montréal, how is that this even a debate?
Although born in Ottawa, Joel Balsam has spent greater than a decade dwelling in Montréal on and off, and his father was born there. Joel additionally wrote the Québec chapter within the upcoming Lonely Planet Canada guidebook.
As Canadians wish to say: Toronto is the place you’re employed, Montréal is the place you reside. In order a traveler are you making an attempt to dive into the grind or reside it up? The latter? Yep, that’s what I assumed.
Toronto is all go, go, go, with big skyscrapers and individuals who gained’t cease to speak as a result of they’re hustling to afford their lease or mortgage. It’s like Manhattan, however not fairly as cool. Sadly, this has made Toronto the loneliest city in Canada. In the meantime, Montréal has joie de vivre. A je ne sais quoi, because it have been. As a substitute of speaking about housing unaffordability, Montrealers focus on artwork, live shows and enjoyable (additionally the ever-present highway building and language legal guidelines, however no person’s excellent). Montréal’s streets are crammed with free festivals all summer season lengthy, together with Complètement Cirque, Mural and Festival International de Jazz. There’s all the time one thing fascinating to see at Musée des Beaux-Arts or Quartiers des Spectacles, and there are a near-infinite variety of hip bars and golf equipment. Some folks even name Montréal “Little Berlin,” affirming its taking place standing.
Since Montréal was constructed largely earlier than vehicles, it’s extra walkable than Toronto and plenty of of its essential thoroughfares are pedestrianized each summer season. Simply try to stroll round Old Montréal’s tiny alleys with out feeling a tingle of romance. The ruelles vertes (actually “inexperienced streets”), again alleys in neighborhoods just like the Plateau and Villeray, are verdant, semi-secret methods to get round city.
In Toronto, parks are few and over-crammed – Trinity Bellwoods on a sunny Saturday is a zoo. However, Montréal’s parks are in abundance and have loads of area to stretch out a picnic blanket crammed with superb cheeses, a baguette and a bottle of wine. There’s nothing in Toronto just like the long-running hippie dance social gathering known as Tam Tams, each Sunday at Parc Jeanne-Mance, and Parc du Mont-Royal is an unparalleled technique to behold the town, and its big Leonard Cohen mural, in awe.
Positive, Toronto has terrific eating places, particularly Asian delicacies, however Montréal isn’t any slouch in relation to consuming, both. Vin Mon Lapin has been named the best restaurant in Canada, and Montréal has probably the most scrumptious smoked meat and bagels on the earth (yeah, you heard me New York). Maybe you are accustomed to the saying “as Canadian as maple syrup?” Or how Chef Jamie Oliver known as poutine the “unofficial official dish of Canada?” With that logic, Montréal (and Québec as a complete) is the most effective place to expertise Canada – the province produces on average 90% of the candy stuff and invented poutine. What’s Ontario bought? Butter tarts?
I’ll admit, I do really feel a bit dangerous trashing Toronto. I’m from Ontario, in spite of everything. However my responsibility right here is as a journey author, and I simply wish to just remember to, expensive traveler, have the most effective expertise while you go to Canada. So neglect Toronto and go to Montréal.
It needs to be Toronto, in fact
Journey author and guidebook creator James March lived in Toronto for a number of years, and it stays his first Canadian love after touring the nation from coast to coast. He returns to Canada’s largest metropolis as typically as doable.
My first summer season in Toronto was a balmy haze of using the town’s famed streetcars (as soon as affectionately generally known as Pink Rockets), sinking happy-hour beers on downtown patios, bouncing round busy hostels and savoring fleeting friendships with fellow vacationers from all corners of the globe. I might stroll by Greek street-food festivals on Danforth Ave, purchase nosebleed Blue Jays baseball tickets after which spend a part of the sport mesmerized by the CN Tower’s revolving lights. I didn’t know the place the journey would lead however I used to be entranced by Canada’s largest metropolis.
I’d learn a bit of about Toronto’s fame earlier than I packed my baggage in Birmingham, England and moved throughout the pond. The phrase from elsewhere in Canada was that Toronto was boring, staid and caught up. A tedious temple to finance. All work and no play. And there’s a sprinkling of reality to this. However there’s additionally merely loads of life in Toronto. Few cities on Earth are extra numerous – over half its 3-million-strong inhabitants was born exterior of Canada, and north of 180 languages are spoken. The crisscrossing canvas of multicultural neighborhoods makes it a metropolis constructed for infinite meals adventures, from succulent steamed dumplings in Koreatown to fiery curries in Little India and so many different scrumptious issues in between.
Skyscrapers soar into the Toronto sky, however there’s some critical cultural clout sitting beneath. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is a natural-history museum that has numerous collections working from dinosaur fossils to exhibitions on costumes and textiles, whereas the Hockey Hall of Fame is the deepest of dives right into a sport inseparable from Canadian identification. Massey Hall is an ornate Nineteenth-century live performance theater that draws the world’s most interesting musicians, whereas down on the waterfront, the sprawling Harbourfront Centre hosts the Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) each September – Canada’s longest-running and largest literary competition.
The CN Tower’s omnipresent spire was a useful reference level after I was misplaced in my early days (for Gen Z of us, these have been these prehistoric occasions earlier than smartphones and Google Maps have been a factor), and, at a gaudy 553m (1815ft), it’s nonetheless Toronto’s most well-known attraction. On a transparent day, you possibly can see throughout Lake Ontario to the distant Niagara Falls from the varied statement ranges. These of a hardier disposition would possibly wish to strive the nerve-shredding Edgewalk, wherein you stroll the surface fringe of the tower’s essential “pod,” strapped in by a harness. You’ll discover Toronto’s Islands from the lofty heights, the place you possibly can escape the town’s hum and cycle the paths of Ward’s Island.
However sufficient about downtown. Toronto’s coronary heart is in its neighborhoods, so leap on a contemporary streetcar (now with air con!) or the subway and get to know the town’s eclectic soul. Admire colourful avenue artwork on Graffiti Alley, eat cheap dim sum in Chinatown, choose up recent pastries in laid-back Harbord Village, browse classic garments in bohemian Kensington Market, bar-hop on buzzing Ossington Ave, keep in boutique inns in artwork hub West Queen West, stroll by tranquil High Park, unwind at the Beaches and the close by Queen East cafes or sip artisan espresso within the hip and historic Junction neighborhood. I may go on. Although the odd reality is that few guests are likely to enterprise out to those elements, regardless of being simply accessible from downtown.
Whereas the town does get surprisingly scorching in the summertime, it’s additionally the most joyous time to visit. That’s partly as a result of locals by no means want an excuse to hit the patio, but in addition due to the sheer variety of festivals. From smaller occasions just like the Beaches Jazz Festival and the Dundas St competition Do West Fest to large hitters like TIFF (Toronto Worldwide Movie Competition) and Pride Toronto, it feels as if one thing is going on each weekend.
Sure, Montréal is a superb social gathering metropolis and, sure, there are too many condos in Toronto and, sure, Justin Trudeau wasn’t even born the final time the Maple Leafs gained the Stanley Cup. However Toronto is a metropolis with so much to shout about. So ignore the stereotypes and dive right into a buzzing metropolis that embraces all newcomers, regardless of the place they’re from.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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