Moving to a new city is a major adjustment, even more so in the case of Montreal. But once you embrace the vibe of this beautiful island, you’ll definitely fall in love with it. Especially as a student, you could not have picked a better city to spend your best years at. Home to 11 universities – McGill, Université de Montréal and Concordia to name a few – and 180,000 students coupled with a never-ending nightlife, socializing is easy here.

We know you’re overwhelmed by the concept of moving to a whole new city, but do not worry because we have you covered with our list of things you NEED to know before moving here.

1.    Montreal is bilingual. Kinda.

The first thing you will probably notice when you move here is French. Montreal is an extremely bilingual city so expect to meet people who speak both French and English or just one of the two. It’s not much of a problem if you don’t know the language of love but does get used to using the basics like Bonjour (hello), Merci (thank you) and a personal favorite, une autre bière s’il vous plaît (another beer, please). Although you can get by knowing just English, some of the neighborhoods are more French than others so doing your due diligence is advised.

2.    The Nightlife

Montreal’s nightlife will definitely make you forget those parties you used to have back home. Looking for a memorable Friday night? Don’t worry, it’ll find you. The last call is 2 45 am and you can’t stay past 3 am (depends on how comfortable they are with you so being nice will go a long way). From the fancy bars to the hipster's joints, Montreal has something happening every night.

3.    Get used to One-way streets

The exotic and European style of the streets might be alluring in the beginning, but driving in Montreal quickly becomes a hassle due to its one-way streets. A GPS will surely prove to be a worthy companion for your travels in this city laced with its confusing street directions.

4.    5 à 7 – a lifestyle

Montreal’s take on happy hour, most establishments offer 5 7 deals on weekdays. You will find bars and restaurants jam-packed with Montrealers enjoying a drink or a meal after work. Being new to the city, it’s a great way to meet new people. Most spots are flexible on the timings and will offer deals as early as 4 pm and as late as 8 pm too.

5.    Montreal Canadiens – The Habs

Living in Montreal and not becoming a Habs fan is almost near impossible no matter who you are. Montrealers are very serious and dedicated when it comes to their hockey team the Montreal Canadiens or the Habs for short. If you don’t wanna feel left out in social situations, you’d better have some Canadiens knowledge which also makes for a great conversation starter.

6.    BEEEERRRR

Getting beer and wine in Montreal is as easy as abcd, provided you have the money of course. The legal purchase age is 18 (compared to 21 in most cities). Other than liquor stores, you can buy beer and wine at grocery stores, depanneurs and gas stations from 7 am to 11 pm. The stores also have a diverse selection of products which are light on the pocket, perfect for your sorority parties.

7.    Convenience stores? No, Depanneurs

The best way to initiate yourself into this city is to get used to the local lingo. Convenience stores are referred to in everyday conversations are depanneurs, or deps, for short.

Similarly, the underground subway system is called the metro and patios are called terraces. Start adopting words like “5 a 7”, “Depanneurs” and “Metro” to really feel like at home in this city.

8.    Parking – your new enemy

When making plans, do take time wasted in finding a parking spot into account. Finding a parking spot in Downtown Montreal is an even bigger hassle than the city’s one-way streets. Constant constructions make it hard to find good parking spots so be sure to research ahead on the surroundings of your destination. Additionally, download the very useful P$ Mobile Service app to pay for a parking space from your phone.

9.    IT’S COLD HERE!!!

Montreal does not hold back when it comes to low winter temperatures. So get ready for long winter nights. Grab a good book and a cup of coffee and enjoy the Montreal winter. The city does not shy away from the cold but embraces it and you should too. Winter brings with it a plethora of carnivals and events suited to the cold temperatures. So put on a few extra layers of clothes and don’t miss out.

10.                       Wanna turn right? Sorry, no can do

Turning right on a red light is illegal in Montreal. So be extra careful otherwise you will be slapped with a ticket. However, you can turn right at certain streets in which case there will be a sign so keep an eye out.

11.                       Cyclist’s paradise

With an extensive bike path network, cycling is a major part of Montreal’s culture. That said, you need to be extra careful when making turns, checking simultaneously for both cars and bikers even though the bike paths are segregated from the motorists. Also, be wary when opening car doors unless you want a biker crash into your door like a bug on a windshield.

12.                       Food Trucks Food Trucks Food Trucks

You won’t find street food vendors in Montreal anywhere because they are illegal. However, Montreal makes up for this loss with an abundance of food trucks splattered throughout the city in 6 boroughs providing a wide range of low-cost delicacies. The food truck schedule can be found at the Ville de Montreal Website.

13.                        The STM

The Société de transport de Montréal(STM) is the name of the public transport system of Montreal, which is a joint network of bus and metros. However, this public transport system is not exactly the best. The routes are kind of limited so make sure your new apartment Is situated close to a metro station to make it easier to get around the city. 

14.                       Socializing

Moving to a new city and not knowing anyone can be scary. But don’t worry because one of Montreal’s greatest charms is its people. With its crazy nightlife and 5 a 7 lifestyle, you’ll have a solid squad within weeks.

15.                       Jay Walking

Don’t even think of jaywalking in Montreal. The police are always on high alert and the fine is $53. When on a night out with friends, best to make sure one of you is sober to stop the others from crossing the street when you shouldn’t.

16.                       Moving day

July 1, more commonly known as Canada Day, is also Moving Day in Montreal. It’s one of the busiest days of the year for the island so it’s best to plan beforehand. Make sure to rent vans, movers, painters etc. before moving day because otherwise you definitely won’t find any.