What language is spoken in Montreal?
Quick answer
French is the main language spoken by most residents of Montreal, and it’s the only official language of Quebec, the province Montreal is in. Montreal is also one of Canada’s most bilingual cities: a large share of residents speak both French and English, and many speak other languages too.
Montreal is one of the largest French-speaking cities in the world. Signs, public services and most daily life happen in French, but visitors who speak only English usually get by well, especially downtown.
French and English in Montreal
| French | English | |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Official language of Quebec | Widely spoken, but not official in Quebec |
| Where most used | Across the city, especially the east | Historically the west and some suburbs |
| Signs and government | Required, with French given priority | Allowed on many signs alongside French |
Quebec’s language laws, including the Charter of the French Language (often called Bill 101, from 1977) and Bill 96 (2022), protect and promote French in work, business and education.
Franglais and local French
Quebec French has its own accent, expressions and vocabulary. You’ll also hear plenty of code-switching, mixing French and English in the same sentence, often called “Franglais.” A common greeting in shops is “Bonjour-hi!”, inviting you to answer in either language.
Other languages
Montreal is home to large communities speaking Arabic, Spanish, Italian, Haitian Creole, Chinese and many other languages, so it’s common to hear three languages in one conversation.
Tips for visitors
- Start with “Bonjour”. It’s polite, and people will often switch to English if you need them to.
- Learn a few basics: merci (thank you), s’il vous plaît (please), excusez-moi (excuse me).
- Menus and transit maps are usually in French first.
Planning a call to Montreal? It’s on Eastern Time, the same as New York. Here’s what time zone you’re in.
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