Botanical Garden
A sprawling 75-hectare oasis featuring diverse flora, 10 themed greenhouses, and an enchanting Chinese lantern garden.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Botanical Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 75-hectare oasis featuring diverse flora, 10 themed greenhouses, and an enchanting Chinese lantern garden.
"A wonderful escape right in the middle of the city — it truly feels like stepping into nature."
Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟
You'll be walking a lot across 75 hectares. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration.
Pack a Picnic 🧺
Bring your own food and enjoy it at designated spots with tables and seats. Great for families!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chinese Lantern Garden
Chinese Garden
A magical display of illuminated lanterns, creating an enchanting atmosphere, especially after dusk.
Themed Greenhouses
Various locations
Explore diverse climates and plant life, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts, all under one roof.
Japanese Garden
Japanese Garden
A serene oasis of tranquility with meticulously sculpted landscapes, water features, and traditional architecture.
Alpine Garden
Alpine Garden
Discover delicate mountain flora and unique rock formations in this charming, specialized section.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Plan Your Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
When is the best time to go to the botanical gardens in Montreal??
Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟
You'll be walking a lot across 75 hectares. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration.
Pack a Picnic 🧺
Bring your own food and enjoy it at designated spots with tables and seats. Great for families!
Botanical Gardens
Jardin Botanique worth it during the winter?
Check for Evening Events ✨
The gardens often host stunning light shows after dark, especially in the Chinese and Rose Gardens.
Utilize the Shuttle 🚌
A free shuttle connects different sections, saving your energy for exploring the highlights.
Biodome vs Botanical Gardens for half a day?
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟
You'll be walking a lot across 75 hectares. Prioritize comfort for a full day of exploration.
Pack a Picnic 🧺
Bring your own food and enjoy it at designated spots with tables and seats. Great for families!
Check for Evening Events ✨
The gardens often host stunning light shows after dark, especially in the Chinese and Rose Gardens.
Utilize the Shuttle 🚌
A free shuttle connects different sections, saving your energy for exploring the highlights.
Photography Paradise 📸
Capture stunning shots of diverse flora, themed gardens, and the magical lantern displays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Botanical Garden as a beautiful and peaceful escape within the city, highlighting its well-maintained themed areas and diverse flora. Many appreciate the opportunity to spend an entire day exploring its vast grounds, with the Chinese and Japanese Gardens being particular standouts. While parking has a fee and can get busy, the overall experience is described as relaxing, educational, and picturesque.
"Jardin botanique de Montréal is a wonderful escape right in the middle of the city — it truly feels like stepping into nature without leaving Montreal. The gardens are beautifully maintained, with a mix of themed areas that are both relaxing and educational. Whether you’re strolling through lush greenery, admiring the flowers, or just sitting quietly by the water, it’s a peaceful retreat from the city rush.
There’s also a small café on site with water and drink options, which comes in handy if you’re spending more time here. Plenty of parking space available, with a flat rate (we paid around CAD 14), but this place is also easily accessible via public transport. Depending on your stamina and interest, you can enjoy a quick one-hour visit or easily spend an entire day exploring. Overall, a must-see for anyone who loves nature, photography, or simply wants a calming break in a picturesque setting."
Vi
"Very interesting place, where you can spend the day with your kids, and get to know about different sorts of plants and trees... Kids will love it! You can bring your own food with you and have a snack in the specified locations ... you can find tables and seats inside under the trees, very nice setting to enjoy a quick meal with the family before continuing the exploration of this huge garden! Make sure to visit all its different parts! Plan a whole day inside!"
Wissam Salameh
"Wow what a beautiful place to come to walk and explore. There’s a free shuttle that takes you to 4 different sections. I don’t remember them all but there’s an Asian inspired garden, water garden, vegetable garden and of course flower garden. They also have a little restaurant that they serve to go meals like sandwiches and salads. We spent 3 hours here during the day. I was recommended by the staff to come again at night as it is more busy. No free parking. Be sure to get there before 730 pm or you will not Find a parking spot !"
Pris K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Botanical Garden is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there is ample parking available, though it comes with a flat rate fee.
Yes, there is parking available, but it is not free. Visitors have reported paying a flat rate. Arrive early, especially for evening events, to secure a spot.
Absolutely! Many bus lines service the area around the Botanical Garden, making it a convenient option for those without a car.
Public transport is highly recommended for ease and cost-effectiveness. Driving is also an option, but be prepared for parking fees and potential crowds. +1
While the gardens are vast, there are paved paths and a shuttle service that can assist with navigating between sections. It's advisable to check their official website for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply, and there's a separate charge for parking. It's best to check the official website for the most current pricing for both entry and parking.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular events like the evening light shows, to guarantee entry and avoid queues.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and for special events. Always consult the official Botanical Garden website for the most up-to-date information on daily operating times.
Historically, some botanical gardens offer free entry during certain periods, like before May as mentioned in a Reddit post. It's worth checking the official site for any such promotions.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Inquire directly with the Botanical Garden or check their website for any applicable concession rates.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the enchanting Chinese Lantern Garden, the diverse themed greenhouses, the serene Japanese Garden, and the unique Alpine Garden.
You can easily spend an entire day exploring the vast grounds. Many visitors recommend at least 4-5 hours to see the main attractions without rushing. +1
Yes, kids will love exploring the different plant zones and the open spaces. Bringing a picnic can make it an even more enjoyable family outing.
Yes, you can bring your own food and enjoy it at designated picnic areas with tables and seats. This is a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery.
There are cafes offering snacks and drinks, restrooms, and a shuttle service to help you navigate the extensive grounds. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The Chinese Lantern Garden at night, the Japanese Garden's tranquil scenes, and the vibrant displays within the themed greenhouses offer incredible photo opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits, so it's best to check the garden's policy.
Weekday mornings offer soft, natural light and fewer people. For dramatic shots, consider the golden hour before sunset or the magical illumination of the Chinese Lantern Garden at night. +1
Drone usage is typically prohibited in most public gardens to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and wildlife. Always check the specific regulations.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the grandeur of the gardens, and a macro lens can highlight intricate floral subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider utilizing the free shuttle service to save little ones' energy for exploring the most exciting sections. The themed greenhouses offer a unique adventure, transporting them to different climates, and the Chinese Lantern Garden at night is a magical experience for all ages.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to capture the magical ambiance of the Chinese Lantern Garden during its evening light shows. Weekday mornings provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for landscape and detail shots. A versatile lens setup will serve you well here.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Gardeners
Take your time to appreciate the diversity in the ten themed greenhouses, each a miniature world of botanical wonders. It's an ideal spot to gather inspiration, learn about different plant species, and simply immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Themed Greenhouses
Each greenhouse is meticulously curated to replicate its native environment, offering an educational and immersive experience. From the vibrant orchids in the tropical house to the resilient succulents in the desert dome, there's always something new to discover. It's a fantastic way to learn about botany and the importance of plant conservation without leaving the city.
The Magic of the Chinese Lantern Garden
Visitors often rave about the magical ambiance created by the lights, making it a perfect destination for a romantic evening stroll or a memorable family outing. The craftsmanship of the lanterns is remarkable, and the way they are integrated into the garden's landscape is a testament to thoughtful design. Be sure to check the schedule for when these light shows are active, as they are a seasonal highlight.
A Day Trip for Families
Bringing a picnic is highly recommended, as there are designated areas with tables and seating, allowing families to relax and refuel amidst the beautiful surroundings. The free shuttle service can also help little legs conserve energy for more exploration. It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to connect with nature and learn about different flora in a fun, interactive setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit