CL&E's Top 10 Things McGill University Students Love About Being In Montreal

The team here at Campus Life & Engagement have come up with a list about why McGill University students love calling Montreal home. Montreal is a diverse and fantastic city to live in. There is always something for everyone!

1. Concerts and Festivals

Whether you are into comedy, jazz, winter activities, or music, Montreal attracts a variety of different festivals all year round. There's always something for everyone to enjoy!

2. Food

Montreal is a foodie's paradise, known for its incredible, diverse offerings found in various boroughs of the city. We recommend making a list of the different places that appeal to you and checking them off one by one during your time as a McGill student.

3. Summer in the City

Summer in Montreal is a great change from the freezing temperatures that you will endure during Winter months. From enjoying the beautiful weather on a terrasse, to lounging in a park with your friends, Spring is just a preview of the great things to come.

4. Sports

Montreal has plenty sports teams to keep you busy all year long, no matter your interests. From special events like the Grand Prix du Canada to the Canadiens (hockey), the Impact (soccer), the Alouettes (football), and our own McGill teams, there is always someone to support.

5. Culture

Québec is known country-wide for its unique culture. Remember to take it all in during your time here at McGill University. The city-wide old-world architecture, traditional cuisine, European flare, and passion for the arts will charm you. Plus, if you're interested in learning français, Montreal is the perfect place to do it!

6. Shopping

Montreal not only has an underground mall complex steps away from downtown campus, but there are great shops along Saint-Laurent, Saint-Denis, and Sainte-Catherine nestled throughout the entire city. You will always be able to find what you are looking for!

7. Relaxed Atmosphere

From deciding what to do with your friends for cinq à sept (an informal happy hour from 5pm to 7pm), to enjoying the view on a terrasse or patio, Montreal has a rather European flair when it comes to enjoying one's spare time. We encourage you to take advantage of the city, no matter the season, and make sure you take it in while you have the chance!

8. Public Transportation

Montreal's public transportation network - STM - enables you to travel the city and visit each neighborhood as you please. We would recommend getting an Opus Card or looking into Bixi Bikes as an efficient way of getting around.

9. Nature

Montreal has many different parks scattered amidst urban jungle for students to get a breathe of fresh air. The downtown and Macdonald campuses also have green space that can be used to get some fresh air. Climbing to the top of Mount Royal is a McGill tradition that we encourage you all to experience during your time here.

10. Dépanneurs

"Dep" is the slang or short form for "Dépanneur," which is a type of convenience store or corner store here in la belle province. Dépanneurs are open later than most shops, usually until 11 pm, so if you need something when your regular store is closed, the Dep is the place to go.

P.S. You're welcome for vintage Nicolas Cage.

See you soon!

Wherever you are, September is on its way, which means that we will be seeing you soon. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Montreal and McGill are waiting. À bientôt!