Montreal wears its culture on its walls. With vibrant murals covering everything from brick alleyways to towering buildings, the city's street art scene is one of the most dynamic in North America. Whether you’re an art lover, a photography enthusiast, or just a student looking for cool, free things to do, exploring Montreal’s murals is an adventure worth taking.

This guide will take you through the best spots to experience Montreal’s street art, introduce you to some of the city's top muralists, and provide tips on making the most of your urban art exploration.

Why Montreal is a Street Art Haven

Montreal has long been a creative hub, and street art plays a huge role in its cultural identity. The city’s open-minded approach to public art has made it a canvas for local and international artists. Events like the MURAL Festival—held every June—bring fresh, large-scale artworks to life on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, ensuring the city’s mural scene constantly evolves.

Unlike many cities where graffiti is often seen as vandalism, Montreal embraces it as a legitimate art form. This means you’ll find everything from stunning photorealistic portraits to politically charged graffiti and playful abstract designs—all for free, just by walking through the streets.

The Best Spots to See Montreal’s Murals

If you're looking for the most iconic murals in the city, these are the areas you won't want to miss:

1. Saint-Laurent Boulevard ("The Main")

Nicknamed “The Main,” this bustling street is the heart of Montreal’s street art scene. The MURAL Festival transforms this area annually with new large-scale murals by world-renowned artists. Some must-see pieces include:

• The Leonard Cohen tribute mural by Kevin Ledo is an awe-inspiring portrait of the legendary musician.
• A mix of surrealist, pop-art, and abstract works by artists like EL MAC and D*Face.
• New festival additions—each year brings fresh pieces to discover.

🌟 Pro tip: Visit during the festival (June) to watch artists painting live!

2. The Plateau & Mile End

This artsy neighbourhood is full of charming cafés, vintage stores, and, of course, murals. Keep an eye out for:

• Stikki Peaches’ paste-up art blends pop culture and social commentary.
• MissMe’s feminist street art features bold, striking portraits.
• Hidden murals in alleys—just wander and let the art find you!

3. Hochelaga

Once an industrial district, Hochelaga became a hotspot for creative expression. The murals here have a more underground, raw feel, reflecting the neighbourhood’s rebellious spirit. Some highlights include:

• Community-led projects that give a voice to local artists.
• Large-scale graffiti lettering by Montreal’s own Fluke.

4. Old Port & Griffintown

Blending history and modernity, this area is home to:

• Murals along the Lachine Canal, where art meets waterfront views.
• Graffiti-adorned alleyways behind the historic warehouses of Old Montreal.
• PichiAvo's classical-meets-graffiti masterpieces.

Meet Montreal’s Top Street Artists

Montreal’s street art scene wouldn’t be what it is without the artists behind the spray cans. Here are some local names to know:

🎨 Kevin Ledo – Known for the breathtaking Leonard Cohen mural, Ledo combines realism with soft, dreamlike elements.

🎨 Stikki Peaches – Famous for wheat-paste street art featuring celebrities mashed up with social and political themes.

🎨 MissMe – A feminist street artist whose work often features strong, provocative imagery of women.

🎨 Fluke – A graffiti legend in Montreal, Fluke’s calligraphic lettering can be found across the city.

If you like a mural, take a photo and tag the artist on social media—many are active and love engaging with the community!

MURAL Festival & Other Street Art Events

If you’re visiting Montreal in June, you’re in luck! The MURAL Festival turns the city into an open-air gallery with:
✅ Live mural painting
✅ Street performances
✅ Art exhibitions and talks
✅ Food trucks and music

Beyond the festival, look for pop-up street art events, workshops, and guided mural tours throughout the year.

🔗 Check out the official MURAL Festival website for updates!

How to Explore Montreal’s Street Art for Free

You don’t need a guided tour to enjoy Montreal’s murals. Here’s how to do it on your own:

🗺 Use a Street Art Map – Websites like Art Public Montreal have interactive maps showing mural locations.

🚶 Take a Walking Route – Start on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, head through The Plateau, and wander into Mile End for an art-filled journey.

📅 Go During the Day – Murals are best viewed in natural light, and some alleyways can be dark at night.

📷 Bring a Camera – Montreal’s murals are Instagram gold!

👀 Look Up & Around – Some of the best street art is hidden in unexpected places, like rooftops and garage doors.

Street Art Etiquette: Respect the Murals

While street art is meant to be enjoyed, it's essential to respect the artists and their work:

🚫 Don’t touch the murals – Many are fragile and easily damaged.
📸 Give credit – If you post on Instagram, tag the artist when possible.
🚷 Stay on public paths – Avoid trespassing on private property for the perfect shot.

By appreciating the murals responsibly, we help keep Montreal’s street art scene alive and thriving!

Final Thoughts

Montreal’s street art isn’t just about pretty walls—it reflects the city’s culture, politics, and creativity. Whether you're admiring massive festival murals or stumbling upon hidden gems in alleyways, you’re experiencing a raw, authentic, and ever-changing side of Montreal.

So, grab your camera, lace up your walking shoes, and explore! Who knows? You might find your new favourite piece of art on the corner of a street you’ve never walked before.