Montreal’s tourism activity is up, compared to last year – and big events like Osheaga and the National Bank Open attract more visitors to the city.
The number of tourists from May to July increased by 4.8 per cent compared to the same period in 2023.
This according to a press release from Tourisme Montréal. They say the city has maintained its position as a leading destination for national and international tourists.
“Montreal continues to stand out as a hub of attraction for national and international visitors, contributing to the economic vitality of the metropolis,” said Yves Lalumière, President and CEO of Tourisme Montréal. “We attach great importance to maintaining a balance between visitors and residents, which allows Montreal to develop harmoniously.”
“Notably the Osheaga festival which broke a record of 147,000 festival-goers for its 2024 edition, while a record of 68,554 tennis fans gathered for the IGA Family Weekend,” noted the press release.
The city saw an 4.3 per cent increase of international tourists, alongside a 7.7 per cent increase from American travellers.
Visitors from France increased by 3.3 per cent in Montreal, and Intra-Quebec travellers rose by 5.6 per cent in the city compared to last summer.
“Among visitors, Canadians remain at the head of the pack, with nearly 39 per cent of tourist spending, followed closely by Americans who account for 37 per cent of tourist spending in the metropolis,” reads the press release.
Montreal-Trudeau airport welcomed 6.3 million passengers from May 1 to July 31, an increase of 6.1 per cent compared to 2023.
According to Tourisme Montréal, they saw a 31 per cent increase in the number of clicks and visitors on their website.
“We are proud to see that this balance is not only preserved, but that it contributes to strengthening the unique appeal of our city,” said Lalumière.
However, the data revealed that most tourists from Ontario, Quebecers themselves, and France prefer to stay with relatives compared to hotels.
Other upcoming events that are expected to draw in large numbers include the Rendez-vous gourmands from Aug. 23 to 25 at Parc Jean-Drapeau, the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series at the Grand Quai of the Port of Montreal from Aug. 22 to 25, and the PGA Presidents Cup, which can bring in around 35,000 golf fans from Sept. 24 to 29.