Shopping in Montreal

No trip to Montreal would be complete without at least one shopping excursion. Montreal shopping offers some truly extraordinary stores, shopping centers, and unique goods that you won't find anywhere else. Visit the most popular shops - from big names to locally owned boutiques – and you'll find that shopping in Montreal will give you a relaxing break from all of your sightseeing and attraction visits.

Shopping Districts

Out of the many famous shopping districts in Montreal, Rue Sherbrooke is probably the most famous shopping street in the downtown area. It features many well renowned international labels for those craving a big-name piece. For the truly fashion forward, head to rue Ste-Catharine where you'll find many shops featuring the very latest trends. There are also larger chain stores nearby to complement the boutiques. Along the same lines, people into edgier fashion will love Le Main, where many independent boutiques, up-and-coming young designers, and other fashion figureheads.

Place Ville-Marie is another downtown area for shopping and has more than 80 shops and restaurants, and it resides in the first shopping complex built post-World War II. If you just want to find some smaller souvenirs for friends and family, head to Old Port, Montreal's former shipping port. Here, there are many shops that offer locally-flavored artifacts, trinkets, and model ships.

Another famous shopping location in Montreal is its Underground City, which consists of more than 4.5 square miles of shopping malls, restaurants, apartment complexes, offices, hotels condos, and metro transit. And if you're here in the colder weather, shopping in Montreal's Underground City will provide you with a cozy place to pick up gifts and souvenirs.

Unique Gifts

Montreal has some unique products that most visitors are just itching to get their hands on. The city's collection of furs is second to none, and for many, furs make great gifts or decorations to bring back home. For those interested in art and with extra money to spend, consider purchasing some authentic Inuit sculptures, which will spark excited conversions among your guests at home. Be sure to look for the official Canadian seal on any of these sculptures so you know that they're authentic. And for those on a tighter budget, buy a bottle or two of ice wine or ice cider to bring back with you. Available in most duty-free shops, this delicious beverage is made from fruit left on the trees after the first frost and is a specialty in Quebec.

When you come here, rest assured that you'll find whatever you're looking for, whether its souvenirs, local artifacts, or great clothing. Shopping in Montreal will give you the opportunity to satisfy your need for some retail therapy while giving you a deeper look into Montreal's history and culture.

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