As Montreal’s largest suburb, Laval is a city in itself. While Old Montreal tends to steal the spotlight, Laval is a fantastic option for those wanting to experience Quebec like a local. Housing a large gourmet market, cinema, mini golf course and string of shops, the Centropolis open air complex is a buzz of activity.
Neighbourhoods like Sainte-Dorothée are home to fantastic boutiques and bistros, as well as the beautiful Chateau Taillefer Lafon. The Cosmodome centre takes visitors on a unique space science adventure, while the Carrefour Laval mall is a mecca for shoppers. From strolling along the river on a balmy summer night to skating on the ice rink in the middle of winter, Parc de la Riviere-des-Mille-Îles is a year-round attraction.
Technically, Laval is an island. It’s separated from the mainland by the Rivière des Mille Îles and the Rivière des Prairies. Road access is fantastic, with plenty of bridges connecting Laval to the north and south. Laval is serviced by several stops on the Montreal Metro, as well as a local bus network.
While today Laval is a bona fide city, it wasn’t always so modern. When the first European Settlers arrived in Quebec, the isle was used for agriculture and farming. In the 20th century, development boomed, and Laval transformed into the metropolis that exists today.