Underground City
Underground City
4
About
Montreal's Underground City, or RÉSO, is an impressive subterranean pedestrian network that spans 20 miles of tunnels. The network is largely climate-controlled, making it a perfect escape from Montreal's harsh weather conditions, especially during winter. You can find over 1,600 shops and facilities within the city and it connects three major shopping malls, hotels, offices, and more. It's also a great way to get to the metro, or spots like Place des Arts and Chinatown. It's easy to get lost, so join a walking tour to help you navigate the city and discover all the cool art and architecture. – Tripadvisor
Duration: More than 3 hours
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The area
Neighborhood: Ville-Marie
How to get there
- McGill • 4 min walk
- Square-Victoria-OACI • 5 min walk
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3,613 within 3 miles
Attractions
510 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Thomas VOakland, California16,161 contributionsEasy to Get LostThe apartment building we stayed in was linked to this very large underground network of passages and shops and places to eat. Also linked to the Metro. You can walk around much of downtown without ever going outside, which is great in bad weather. But the passages are very confusing to tourists and the signage is terrible, thus it is easy to get lost.Visited June 2023Written June 23, 2023
- N FEdmonton, Canada133 contributionsJust a mallThis probably doesn’t even qualify as a “thing to do”. It’s just a network of ordinary shopping malls joined by uninteresting underground tunnels. It’s hard to navigate around and not especially nice inside. The fountain and food court at Place Desjardins is the highlight: after that it’s not worth the effort. If it’s raining or cold it’s probably better than walking around outside… that’s about the best you can say.Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten July 22, 2023
- Florida BVero Beach, Florida229 contributionsGood idea for bad weather bring your compassIt was cold and raining so we decided to wonder around the underground. It was also a Sunday. The place was packed. It was hard to navigate too. Market One looked like a great idea. It was an upscale food court. We couldn’t find 2 seats together so we leftVisited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 22, 2023
- Aslan's TravelerBurnsville, Minnesota628 contributionsIt's basically a mallFirst a disclaimer, we are from Minneapolis, where the downtown buildings are all linked by second floor skyways. So, the idea of a bunch of connected buildings was nothing unique to us. That said, that's what this is, a bunch of buildings connected by tunnels. There is at least one very cool fountain in the Complex des Jardins and the Eaton center has a very nice "high-end food court" with various upscale options (no McD or Tim Hortons here). But otherwise, there really aren't any particular attractions, except for the various stores and restaurants--which are mostly in either Eaton Center or CDJ anyway. In fact, walking through the tunnels (at least on Sunday morning when we were there), can be a bit creepy.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 2, 2023
- md1mmSheffield, United Kingdom1,573 contributionsA great way to shopUnless someone tells you, you can not imagine how good and extensive the underground city is. Very clean, great shops, busy, and you can walk around whatever the weather. It is always one of the highlights of every visit I make to Montreal.Visited November 2023Traveled soloWritten November 16, 2023
- travelingmom2674Bethesda, Maryland35 contributionsGreat, but confusing!Overall, this network of tunnels and venues is brilliant. My complaint is that the maps and signs are just not sufficient to help a first timer figure out where they are going. It is particularly confusing in the Victoria/Bonaventure area. We were walking around with several other tourists and none of us could figure out if we were really going the right way. I'm sure once you do it a few times it becomes second nature.Visited February 2024Traveled with familyWritten February 21, 2024
- Mai STopanga, California38 contributionsIt's HUGE.I really don't know what to think of the Underground City. I know it's necessary for the rough weather seasons but if you are used to the stand alone malls we have in the US thenyou are going to be a bit shocked. Because it's HUGE. 20+ miles huge. I took my daughter to check it out and we entered in the the Complexe Desjardins entrance. That center was okay. But pretty. There was a really big supermarket called IGA which was fun to walk around and see Canadian producst. The other mall stores however were not really for the younger set but it did have the coolest chocolate store there called Chocolat Favoris. We had the best chocolate dipped cones we ever had in our lives there. Highly recommend. The food court also looked cool but we had already had lunch before we got there. We finally asked someone what part of the Underground City was best and he sent us over the Eaton. Go there. More of the modern stores are there. I think it's pretty amazing that Montreal folks probably have this Underground City memorized.Visited March 2024Traveled with familyWritten April 5, 2024
- wireless_in_CAUnited States7,429 contributionsNot Very NavigableWe started our visit at the Complexe Desjardins and initially thought this was a nice start to the Underground City. Here was a nice open area, shops, restaurants, grocery store where we picked up some items and restrooms. We followed some of the walkways to the other portions of the underground. However, there was a lack of maps or guidance to figure out what was next or where it went. After a short while we turned around. I could see this being very helpful on cold, rainy or snowy days if one knows where to go. If they did some type of mapping and posting then it might have more interest to visitors.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten April 23, 2024
- SamsonjhBournemouth, United Kingdom185 contributionsNot a city, more just a load of confusing walkwaysOk, this is a bit of false advertising and IS NOT an underground city! It's basically a series of walkways that kind of link a number of shopping malls... and it's pretty impossible to follow!! The signs are hidden in random locations and are written in a way that don't catch the eye. I get it's probably useful in the bad weather and winter but pretty pointless any other time, it takes twice as long to get anywhere because you have to keep retracing your steps and you miss a lot of the sights of Montreal by being underground. Good luck trying to decipher the maps on the wall!Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten April 29, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Ben F
Bloomington, IN1,792 contributions
Mar 2020 • Solo
I spent just an hour or two in the Underground City during my quick trip to Montreal. At that time, it was FREEZING—snowflakes were bombarding everything in their path, and snow and sludge were amassing over an inch. I did a bit of walking around, but I felt that time could be a little better spent if I checked out the oasis of warmth and energy that Montreal houses under its already-iconic streets. After exploring (and not even seeing all it has to offer!), I can assert that a venture down to the Underground City is a must-do in Montreal if you have the time. It has activities you can appreciate any time of year.
Options for dining, shopping, and entertainment are abundant. I grabbed a bite at a bagel shop, and it was super filling for finishing my adventurous exploration that day. Many more shopping/dining venues can be found in areas I didn’t even manage to see, but where I was, there was plenty to satisfy your needs. Along with these amenities, I must remark that the architecture and atmosphere is truly unique. In Victoria Square, where I spent most of my time, historic brick blended with modern, glass windows to create a stunning ambiance for folks. It all was so open and spacious, a feel that I always appreciate.
As just one aspect I thought could have been improved, as coincidentally with other places I visited in Montreal this trip, I would’ve liked signage to have been clearer and more prevalent. I seriously do possess strong navigation skills, but it took me way more time than it should’ve for me to scout out restrooms, elevators to higher floors, etc. I honestly don’t know why signage has been such a large issue on this trip, but oh well...just saying!
In any case, especially since I only checked out a portion of the Underground City, I hope to prioritize it all when I embark on my next trip to Montreal. It is genuinely a delightful destination to spend time in chilly winter months or for memorable shopping any time of year. Despite poor signage, I still recommend taking at least an hour to stroll around. Kudos to the City of Montreal for establishing such an excellent gathering place!
Options for dining, shopping, and entertainment are abundant. I grabbed a bite at a bagel shop, and it was super filling for finishing my adventurous exploration that day. Many more shopping/dining venues can be found in areas I didn’t even manage to see, but where I was, there was plenty to satisfy your needs. Along with these amenities, I must remark that the architecture and atmosphere is truly unique. In Victoria Square, where I spent most of my time, historic brick blended with modern, glass windows to create a stunning ambiance for folks. It all was so open and spacious, a feel that I always appreciate.
As just one aspect I thought could have been improved, as coincidentally with other places I visited in Montreal this trip, I would’ve liked signage to have been clearer and more prevalent. I seriously do possess strong navigation skills, but it took me way more time than it should’ve for me to scout out restrooms, elevators to higher floors, etc. I honestly don’t know why signage has been such a large issue on this trip, but oh well...just saying!
In any case, especially since I only checked out a portion of the Underground City, I hope to prioritize it all when I embark on my next trip to Montreal. It is genuinely a delightful destination to spend time in chilly winter months or for memorable shopping any time of year. Despite poor signage, I still recommend taking at least an hour to stroll around. Kudos to the City of Montreal for establishing such an excellent gathering place!
Written March 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
marcopolopaloalto
Palo Alto, CA1,144 contributions
Feb 2020
Maybe if I stayed in Montreal longer I could have figured it out, and the signs where one knows to enter this underground city were knowable to us....
But we really couldn’t figure it out so well. Despite the non ease of use for us, the locals who know this underground city dine and shop here.
In some stores on the city streets one can enter thru an escalator, and that was helpful.
On a snowy day, it must be a wonderful alternative to shopping outside in freezing weather.
Yes, the metro connects to some of this.
Also, there was a Barbie exhibit which must be nice for young girls .
But we really couldn’t figure it out so well. Despite the non ease of use for us, the locals who know this underground city dine and shop here.
In some stores on the city streets one can enter thru an escalator, and that was helpful.
On a snowy day, it must be a wonderful alternative to shopping outside in freezing weather.
Yes, the metro connects to some of this.
Also, there was a Barbie exhibit which must be nice for young girls .
Written February 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thomas V
Oakland, CA16,161 contributions
Nov 2022
Completely confusing. After a month in the city we were still very confused every time we entered this area of malls. The signage is not clear. The maps are worthless. And you wind yourself constantly going up and down stairs. The concept is good: Get you out of the weather to link up to various buildings and venues. But the executions needs lots of work. Lots of food courts.
Written November 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Craig H
Lowell, Massachusetts25 contributions
Aug 2022
This "destination" gets talked up a lot, but the experience isn't nearly what the descriptions claim it is. Basically, enough buildings dug underground connections between each other that it's turned into a 30-kilometer waste of time. Sure, if it's the dead of winter, by all means head underground. But if it's any other time of year, there's nothing down there to hold a candle to what's up top. Do yourself a favor and stick to the good stuff above ground.
Written August 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Renee S
26 contributions
Apr 2023 • Family
My teen daughter and I were looking for the Underground city today after reading about it online. It is challenging to find if you cannot read French. We asked a security guard for directions, referring to it as underground city, and he was not sure what we were talking about. We finally found a segment at the train station. It did seem to connect a couple metro stations and was easy to walk between. It has food shops, and plenty of shoe shops. The big 4 floor area is an above ground mall, which is nowhere near what I expected when hearing the area called an Underground city. We got a lot of walking in, a not-so-impressive smoothie, and not much else.
Written April 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul Legate
United Kingdom21,909 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
RÉSO Underground City is a labyrinth of intrerconnecting walkways and tunnels that connect commercial, residential areas as well as shopping malls and office buildings in the Downtown district of Montréal. The network is so extensive that it is possible to complete a full circuit of the central area of the city combined with using the intregrated Métro system without needing to go above ground.
We have been visiting RÉSO Underground City for many years and on our most recent visit in January 2023 we used the underground network in order to stop off at various landmarks enroute. Over the years signage has improved but it could be better, sometimes we ended up down blind alleys scratching our heads. Even though it can be confusing on some of the less central parts of the network it is still a fantastic system and worth exploring on any visit to the city.
We have been visiting RÉSO Underground City for many years and on our most recent visit in January 2023 we used the underground network in order to stop off at various landmarks enroute. Over the years signage has improved but it could be better, sometimes we ended up down blind alleys scratching our heads. Even though it can be confusing on some of the less central parts of the network it is still a fantastic system and worth exploring on any visit to the city.
Written February 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thomas V
Oakland, CA16,161 contributions
Jun 2023
The apartment building we stayed in was linked to this very large underground network of passages and shops and places to eat. Also linked to the Metro. You can walk around much of downtown without ever going outside, which is great in bad weather. But the passages are very confusing to tourists and the signage is terrible, thus it is easy to get lost.
Written June 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jadstrim
Randolph Center, VT53 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
If you do not know French finding this place without assistance can be troublesome. The tunnels connecting all are by subway not walking (as far as we could see). Finally walked above ground to Eaton Center from which you can access the main shopping area.
Written March 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mai S
Topanga, CA38 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
I really don't know what to think of the Underground City. I know it's necessary for the rough weather seasons but if you are used to the stand alone malls we have in the US thenyou are going to be a bit shocked. Because it's HUGE. 20+ miles huge. I took my daughter to check it out and we entered in the the Complexe Desjardins entrance. That center was okay. But pretty. There was a really big supermarket called IGA which was fun to walk around and see Canadian producst. The other mall stores however were not really for the younger set but it did have the coolest chocolate store there called Chocolat Favoris. We had the best chocolate dipped cones we ever had in our lives there. Highly recommend. The food court also looked cool but we had already had lunch before we got there. We finally asked someone what part of the Underground City was best and he sent us over the Eaton. Go there. More of the modern stores are there. I think it's pretty amazing that Montreal folks probably have this Underground City memorized.
Written April 5, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rick Evans
Seattle, WA18 contributions
Feb 2023 • Friends
Montreal is a Great walking city to enjoy history, food, architecture and more. ( I’ve heard of the epic jazz music and comedy but now yet experienced myself.) My Uber driver recommended Schwartz smoked meats and Fairmont bakery bagels… yes, go eat at both! Bota Bota is a must for relaxation, water circuit and massage! Basilica Notre Dame evening light show is amazing along with touring the nearly 200 year old church. Hockey was fun and so much more.
Written March 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SnappleSpice
New York City, NY572 contributions
What are some must-see sites (stores, artwork, etc) of the Underground?
Florida B
Vero Beach, FL229 contributions
I agree. The market/food court is nice. Except on the weekends it’s packed and you walk around with your tray trying to find a place to sit and eat. I left there frustrated.
FoxFrancis
Boston, MA258 contributions
Is there an English version of the map of the Underground?
todc96
Toronto, Canada15 contributions
Are dogs allowed in the mall?
alexipuppy
Omaha, NE109 contributions
Sorry I don’t know. Didn’t bring Minewithme
greatfocus777
Seoul, South Korea10 contributions
Hello, I'm at 2125 St. Marc street. I'm trying to go to Underground city. where is the closest entrance please.
Thanks
Passport638095
Panama3 contributions
Place des'art is the closer one but also there is one entrance by the old Montreal for the underground city
kinou301
Lucon, France4 contributions
Bonjour es que les magasins sont ouvert le dimanche dans la ville souterraine de Montréal (demain 30 décembre) ? Merci
Mini Stanley Giraffe
San Diego, CA58 contributions
Is there a recommended place to park a car where we can explore Underground City and walk around Old Montreal without going back to the car until we are done? Thanks!
Stephen M
Tampa, FL150 contributions
Parking is an issue throughout the shopping district and Old Montreal. There are places to park, but if possible I would leave the car at your hotel and take a cab or the metro. They provide easy access throughout the city.
The underground shopping area is quite large and it’s easy to get turned around. Finding your car after an extensive underground shopping experience may be challenging.
Metro stops are located around the underground city. So my recommendation is leave the car at your hotel and use the public transportation it’s easy and convenient. Montreal prides itself on its clean and effecient public transportation. Or if you like there are plenty of cabs. Either option is better than driving your car. For me once you arrive in Montreal park the car and leave it parked until you are ready to depart the city.
solly_travels
Los Angeles, CA
Which hotels have direct access to the Underground City / RÉSO in Montreal?
My trip is at the end of January 2018. I hear the weather will be freezing cold so I want to book a hotel that’s actually connected to it.
Robert V
184 contributions
The Queen E and the InterContinental. These are high end facilities. I am not aware of any mid-range hotels attached to the underground city. That does not mean there are none. Peel Street has a hotel just across the street from the Peel Metro - Inn by Marriott Montreal.
What is the best entrance to the underground city?
Pablo S
Gravesend, UK284 contributions
Use the metro station nearest to where you are staying, this is part of the underground city.Enjoy it its well worth looking at, there is even part of the Berlin wall and a statue sent over from France , I think from the Louvre,where a lot of newly weds have their wedding photos taken.
Thuy Le
Cedar Park, TX89 contributions
What time are you open? How do we get there from place du Canada? Thank you!
PSIMKO
Manitoba, Canada158 contributions
The hours are:
Monday: 10:00am - 9:00pm
Tuesday: 10:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday: 10:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday: 10:00am - 9:00pm
Friday: 10:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday: 10:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday: 11:00am - 5:00pm
You can get directions by searching Underground city Montreal - they have an informative website. Enjoy!
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