While many of us dream of travel that includes disconnection from our devices, the reality is that we have business to take care of. Remaining connected is vital to respond to work emails and to send a quick message to family members — and, sure, to post humblebrag selfies. Fortunately, Montréal offers plenty of Wi-Fi hotspots for visitors.
Here’s how you can roam around Montréal, without incurring roaming fees.
THE MONTRÉAL-TRUDEAU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
After your flight lands in Montréal, you might have a few moments of wait time for your suitcase or to clear customs. Use the airport’s free Wi-Fi to check your email, review your social feeds or Instagram an official “I’m in Montréal” selfie! (Just don’t forget to tag it #MTLmoments.)
MTLWIFI
Montréal has one of the largest free public urban Wi-Fi networks in the world. With a total of 825 access stations, guests can move around downtown Montréal while remaining connected. The MtlWiFi network includes such popular tourist areas as Old Montréal, the Entertainment District (Quartier des spectacles) and the Latin Quarter.
MONTRÉAL’S CONVENTION CENTRE (PALAIS DES CONGRÈS DE MONTRÉAL)
The Palais offers free Wi-Fi on the gallery level — feel free to linger at one of the restos or cafés and use the network!
ZAP
The non-profit organization was created in 2003 to provide free wireless access in public places of Montreal. The 260 hotspots sprinkled across the city require nothing more than a simple affirmative click on the term agreements. Details: zap.coop (French only).
COWORKING SPACES
For business travellers wishing to extend their stay in Montréal — either before or after a conference — but who cannot completely stop working, here are six innovative coworking spaces to log a little office time.
BREATHER
Think of Breather as the “Uber” of office space — but instead of a car ride, you get a handsome space to chill out. Each Breather is a room equipped with a desk, a comfortable couch, a selection of plugs (to recharge your devices) and high-speed Wi-Fi service. It’s a place to go when you need to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.
SHOPPING CENTRES
Whether you’re looking for a cute new outfit or simply window shopping, Montréal has a handful of downtown centres — each connected to the underground network — which offer free Wi-Fi. Complexe Desjardins is a hop-skip-and-a-jump from the convention centre. Also check out then Eaton Centre (fun wax museum!) and Place Montréal Trust.
CAFÉS
Looking for a place for caffeine and connection? Here are some of our favourite independent cafés to refuel and recharge.
(Tip: Downloading the Adbeus app helps you find the best coffee in Montréal — and beyond!)
Pikolo Espresso Bar
3418 B Avenue Du Parc
pikoloespresso.com
Café Tommy
200 Notre-Dame West
tommymontreal.com
Café Parvis
433 Rue Mayor
cafeparvis.com
Titanic
445 rue Saint-Pierre
titanicmontreal.com
Différance
229 avenue Viger West
cafedifferance.ca
Humble Lion
904 Sherbrooke West
humblelion.com
Finally, Montréal offers a selection of American cafés (read: Starbucks) and quick service restaurants (read: McDonald’s) that have complimentary Wi-Fi. Locations throughout the city.
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