23 Best Things to Do in Montreal

"There are two volumes of conversation allowed at Bota Bota, a floating spa docked in Montreal's Old Port: “quiet” and "silence." Since opening in 2010, it has become an attraction for locals and tourists drawn to its spa treatments and hydrotherapy circuit. You can soak in a mineral-rich hot tub—and perhaps conquer that jet lag—while gazing upon the Downtown core, Mount Royal, and the historic Old Port, all from the river. While admission is typically limited to guests over the age of 18, the spa recently brought back its popular “Pirates Layover,” where children between 12 and 17 can visit on select dates to learn about and experience the benefits of hydrotherapy. Come on weekday before 11 a.m., and a three-hour pass costs $35; however, many visitors end up extending that time, choosing to spend the better part of a day luxuriating and recharging here. It's impossible to leave feeling anything less than relaxed." - Todd Plummer