What to Wear in Montreal

In summer, pack as you would for any warm city. In winter, pack as if the weather means it, because it does. Most of this guide is about the cold months, since that's where visitors get it wrong.

Winter, layer by layer

Montrealers dress in layers, not in one enormous coat, because they're constantly moving between minus 15 outside and a heated metro car or shop. Start with a thermal base layer (merino wool or a synthetic, not cotton). Add a fleece or wool sweater. On top, a windproof, insulated parka that covers your hips, ideally with a hood. Then the extremities, which is where the cold bites: a hat that covers your ears, a scarf or neck warmer you can pull over your face, and insulated gloves or mittens (mittens are warmer).

Boots matter most of all. You need insulated, waterproof boots with a thick, grippy sole. Pavements are cleared but often icy, and the salt and slush will ruin leather shoes and trainers within a day. Wool socks, and a spare pair in your bag. If you're arriving with city shoes, buying a pair of winter boots in town on day one is a common and sensible move.

The underground city

The RESO, Montreal's underground city, links metro stations, shopping centres, office towers, hotels, universities and concert halls through tens of kilometres of tunnels and passages. On a bitter day you can walk from Place des Arts to Bonaventure station without stepping outside. Keep a light layer underneath your parka, because the tunnels are warm and you'll want to unzip. It's also a reason to stay downtown in winter, as our where to stay guide explains.

The rest of the year

• Summer: light, breathable clothes for humid days, sunscreen and a hat for the festivals, a compact umbrella for thunderstorms, and one layer for air-conditioned rooms.
• Spring and autumn: a warm jacket, a sweater and waterproof shoes. April slush and October rain both find thin soles.
• All year: comfortable walking shoes for the cobbles of Old Montreal and the paths of Mount Royal, and a small backpack.
• Churches: no strict dress code at the Notre-Dame Basilica or Saint Joseph's Oratory, but modest clothing is appreciated.
• Evenings: Montrealers dress smart-casual for dinner. You won't be turned away in jeans.

Check the season you're heading into with our best time to visit guide, and if you're climbing the mountain in winter, read the Mount Royal guide first.