Montreal - Prepare

Montreal enjoys four clear seasons so dress accordingly whether to see the reds and golds on crisp autumn mornings, go ice-skating on an outdoor rink in the Old Port or sunbathe on a riverside beach.

The city blasts its way into summer with the world-famous Montreal International Jazz Festival in Jun/Jul. On summer weekends get to Parc Jean-Drapeau for a showcase of world music, or take in local DJs at the Piknic Electronik parties. In October, Montreal's gay community throws a week of fundraising parties called the Black & Blue Festival. In February, celebrate winter at the Montreal High Lights Festival.

New Year's Day (1 Jan), Good Friday (Mar/Apr), Easter Monday (Mar/Apr), Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day (24 Jun), Canada Day (1Jul), Labour Day (Sep), Thanksgiving Day (Oct), Remembrance Day (11Nov), Christmas Day (25 Dec), Boxing Day (26 Dec).

Montreal can be warm in the summer with average temperatures from May to September ranging between 19°C and 26°C. A seasonal highlight is the Fall Colours when chillier temperatures encourage the foliage through a brilliant range of colours. Temperatures average between 5°C and -6°C over the winter: underground pedestrian tunnels connecting much of downtown are a relief during harsh winters.

60 to 220 V AC, two- and three-pin plugs are standard.

+1(national) then a local three-digit area code and a seven-figure number (Montreal).

Canadian dollar $ is the currency.

-5 hours

Montreal Tourism website

Style is all in Montreal, even within the dictates of the weather. You'll want a sweater in the autumn, a light jacket in spring and a heavy coat in winter. For evenings out, whether a smart dinner or a night at the club, Montrealers are fashionistas. They'll be paying attention to whatever you wear.