Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal

Tucked away near the University of Montreal on Mount Royal, this Oratory is both beautiful and historical. Parking is $5 CAN per car (2018). There is a climb of approximately 99-110 steps depending on where you park. Most of the Oratory is accessible via elevators or escalators, or, for the pious, via many many stairs. Daily masses are even held in the lower sanctuary. Free, guided tours by docents are also available.

It a church. Religious people will love it. The architecture is wonderful. You get to see part of the foundation that on wet rock. Beautiful view of the city. Try to be there at dusk, gives it a different feel.

This place is a must see in Montreal. You get a great view of the city from a different angle that you get from The Mont Royal. It is easily accessible by metro and bus. You can walk there from the metro station, but it is a walk up the hill and if you are in a hurry the bus will drop you in front of the Oratory. There is a shuttle service available there to take you closer to the entrance (there are several flights of stairs to get to the top). This place is usually super busy, but it's not crowded as Mont Royal. There are several things to see inside the Oratory, and every Sunday afternoon a free concert happens at the main church (really nice! The sound of their organ is majestic!)

So much to say about this place. First of all, I love the idea that the property is open to public 24/7. That in itself is amazing. It's a perfect destination for both tourists and locals. I often visit this place at night to just be "away" and feel a sense of peace. For Christians and any other believers, it's a place with a sense of spirituality where one can go and pray. This place also has a museum "feel" to it, making it a great place to visit and learn about culture and history.