Appointed a UNESCO City of Design in 2006, our city is brimming with attractions which speak volumes about its reputation.

In 2007, Montréal became the first urban centre to sign the Geotourism Charter of National Geographic Society, thereby reinforcing its status as a cultural, innovative city resolutely focused on sustainable development.

This Charter, which includes 13 principles, aims to support tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place-its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. In terms of tourism development in Montréal, this means adopting an approach more closely attuned to the city’s natural, heritage, and cultural persona. It further implies compliance with the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism developed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), as well as with the principles of the International Charter on Cultural Tourism drawn up by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS).

Montréal’s adoption of the Geotourism Charter underscores a long track record of destination stewardship, commitment to future geotourism activities, and leadership in the global preservation and tourism industries.

A geotourism map and guide of the Island of Montréal, which identifies the many attractions of the metropolis, is now available. To download the map, click here!