The city is bracing for what could be one of its busiest summers on record, with major events, rising visitor numbers and a growing international profile fueling optimism across the tourism sector.
From the Formula One Grand Prix to the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Olympics, and even the possibility of a deep playoff run by the Montreal Canadiens, the city is already buzzing with anticipation.
Tourists are arriving from across the globe, eager to experience Montreal’s culture, food and atmosphere.
“We’re visiting from the Philippines,” said Marvin Caldido, a tourist.
“California,” said Gene Perrier.
“St. Louis,” said Isabella, a visitor.
“Toronto,” said Taylor Searl.
“Connecticut,” said Em Burke.
“Vancouver,” said Helen Rose.
“France Normandy,” said another visitor.
“Saint-Brieuc, France, Bretagne,” said Sigrid Roger.
Tourisme Montréal is forecasting about five per cent growth across Canadian, U.S., and international markets this summer. Hotel occupancy is expected to average around 80 per cent between June and September, with peaks reaching 85 per cent.
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“We are expecting a very nice summer, maybe the best summer of all time for Tourism Montreal,” said Aurélie De Blois, spokesperson for Tourisme Montréal.
The outlook is echoed by the hotel industry, which is already seeing increased demand.
“We can see that there is a 7 per cent rise in room demand for the hotels in Montreal for the summer,” said Dominique Villeneuve, president and general manager of the Greater Montreal Hotel Association.
Event organizers say the energy is already palpable across the city.
“You feel it in the city, you feel it with the occupier as well. People are looking forward to have a bit more, a warm temperature, but they’re ready to roll,” said Nicolas Cournoyer, co-founder of Multicolore.
Last year, Montreal welcomed 12 million visitors, including roughly two million Americans and about 500,000 international travellers.
“Montreal is more accessible than ever. We now have 165 direct flights from all around the world,” De Blois said.
One of the biggest highlights this year will be the UCI Road World Championships, running from Sept. 20 to 27. The event is expected to bring 1,000 elite riders competing across 13 races, along with nearly 500,000 visitors, making it the largest event hosted in the city since the 1976 Olympic Games.
“The tourism industry has a really strong impact on the economy of Montreal. Over a year, we’re talking about six billion in expenses, tourist expenses,” De Blois said.
Officials say the packed calendar, from major sporting events to festivals, will keep hotels and businesses busy throughout the season.
“We have great sport events, but we have all the festivals as well. So yes, we’re expecting a busy summer for Montreal and the hotels will be ready to welcome all the visitors,” Villeneuve said.
The early signs of that surge are already visible, with visitors exploring the city and taking in its unique character.
“It’s only been two days we are visiting Montreal so there’s a lot of things to do,” said a tourist.
“Culture, the food, the vibe, it’s my favourite city in the country,” the visitor added.
“This is my first time to be here in Montreal, and it feels like, you are in an old city where you experience some great food and great people,” the tourist said.
Organizers say that combination of culture, cuisine and atmosphere is what keeps people coming back.
“Once you’re in the city, you’ll enjoy incredible food. So restaurant, terrace, music, the way of living. I think we’re good at it,” Cournoyer said.
For many visitors, the culinary experience is already a highlight.
“We got to have some crepes this morning, and that was super good. And yeah, I’m excited to try some poutine. I hear that’s the thing to do,” said a tourist.
With momentum building and a full slate of events ahead, Montreal’s tourism industry is betting this summer could set a new benchmark for the city.
