Every year, Montréal garners accolades and recognition as a standout city for both business and leisure. The city excels in international rankings, being consistently recognized as a top destination for meetings, travel, and innovation. This article highlights the various ways Montréal shines, from its general appeal to its industry strengths, sustainability efforts, inclusivity, and accessibility.
Key Takeaways
- Accolades: Montréal is recognized globally for its excellence in various domains.
- General Appeal: The city ranks high among top travel destinations.
- Industry & Innovation: Montréal is a city of the future and a leader in startups.
- Sustainability: The city prioritizes environmental responsibility.
- Inclusivity & Accessibility: Montréal is safe and welcoming.
- Education & Talent: The city is a hub for students and AI talent.
- Transportation: Montréal offers excellent pedestrian and public transport options.
General Appeal
Among Travel + Leisure’s Best Cities in Canada
Travel + Leisure readers ranked Montréal as the second-best city in Canada, praising its unique blend of small-town hospitality, urban culture, and natural beauty.
Lonely Planet’s Third Best City in the World
Lonely Planet ranked Montréal as the third best city in the world, citing its culinary wonders, festivals, cultural attractions, and picturesque green spaces.
One of Travellers’ Choice Top 10 Most Popular Canadian Destinations
Montréal is recognized as a cultural capital and a cosmopolitan celebration of Québécois style, earning it a place among Travellers’ Choice Top 10 most popular Canadian destinations.
Among the World’s Most Affordable Big Cities
Montréal is listed as one of the most affordable big cities globally by Mercer’s Cost of Living Survey, ranking 125th.
Among Time Out’s Top International Cities for Culture
Time Out rated Montréal 12th globally and second in North America for its vibrant arts and culture scene, based on votes from 21,000 readers.
Industry & Innovation
Officially a City of the Future
Montréal placed 17th among cities of its size in the Cities of the Future Index, ranking high for green energy and green buildings.
One of the World’s Best Startup Ecosystems
Montréal ranked 36th among the world’s best ecosystems for fostering startups, recognized for its strategic location, innovative spirit, and talent.
Among the World’s Smartest Cities
The Smart City Index ranks Montréal 69th among 141 top smart cities globally for its economic and technological progress, quality of life, and environment.
One of North America’s 20 Most Open Cities
Montréal ranked fifth among North America’s most open cities, recognized for its transparency and accessibility.
Sustainability
Among Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best Sustainable Cities
Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best 2024 named Montréal the 13th best sustainable city in the world, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and positive traveler experiences.
No. 1 on the Sustainable Cities Index
Montréal topped the Sustainable Cities Index by Compare the Market, with 99.95% of its energy coming from renewable sources.
Driving Progress in Sustainable Mobility
Montréal ranked 23rd worldwide for leading sustainable mobility, aiming for zero emissions and recognized for its infrastructure, innovation, and systems efficiency.
Inclusivity & Accessibility
Officially the World’s Second Safest City
Montréal is the second safest city in the world, according to Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, based on safe-cities index ratings, crime rates, and more.
North America’s Top City for Well-Being
Montréal ranks No. 1 in North America for well-being and 11th worldwide, based on metrics like gender equality, innovation, and green spaces.
Education & Talent
Among Canada’s Best Student Cities
Montréal ranks second among Canada’s best student cities, based on academic excellence, student life, quality of life, and attractiveness.
North America’s 15th Best City to Score Tech Talent
Montréal is No. 15 among North American cities for tech talent, recognized for its skilled labor market and quality of life.
No. 21 on the World’s 50 Top Hubs for AI Talent
Montréal ranks 21st among the top global hubs for AI talent, noted for its large talent pool and diversity.
North America’s Best City for Remote Work
Montréal is the best city in North America for remote work and second worldwide, based on factors like attractiveness, cost of living, and liveability.
Transportation
A Pedestrian City Par Excellence
Walk Score ranks Montréal highly for walkability, with its historic architecture, modern downtown, and tree-lined neighborhoods.
A Public Transport System Voted Among the World’s Best
Montréal’s public transport system ranks among the world’s best, praised for its accessibility, affordability, and reliability.
A Top-Rated Airport According to Skytrax
Montréal-Trudeau International Airport has top-rated staff and ranks among the top five airports in North America, known for quality service and cleanliness.
Conclusion
Montréal is a city that consistently excels in various domains, making it a top destination for meetings, travel, and innovation. From its general appeal and industry strengths to its focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and talent, Montréal stands out as a remarkable place for both work and play.
