Overview
St. Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal is a basilica and national shrine dedicated to Saint Joseph. It is one of the largest churches in the world and offers stunning views of Montreal.
It is the largest church in Canada and a prominent landmark in Montreal.
Location
Address
3800 Queen Mary Road, Montreal, Quebec
Neighborhood: Outremont
Coordinates
45.501700, -73.620300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-May, October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better views
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • flowers
- • gardens
summer
warm to hot
- • extended hours
- • outdoor concerts
autumn
cool to mild
- • fall colors
- • harvest market
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
- • Christmas market
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead for guided tours
- Bring ID for discounts
- Check weather for outdoor visits
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (some walking and stairs)
- • stairs to the dome
- • uneven surfaces in gardens
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual but respectful, comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, shorts, tank tops inside the basilica
Booking Tips
- • 2-3 weeks for guided tours
- • official website or authorized vendors
- • 48 hours for refund
- • available for online tickets
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
St. Joseph's Oratory App
Size: 60 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Main courtyard
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
Distance: 20 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, peaceful atmosphere, and stunning views
Historical Significance: Important religious and cultural events have taken place here, including visits by Pope John Paul II
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning before 9 AM
- Best food and coffee at the back entrance cafe
- Guided tours offer deeper historical insights
Local Recommendations
- • Try local pastries at the on-site cafe
- • Ask for guide John for detailed historical insights
- • Visit nearby Mount Royal Park for additional views
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for grandeur
Result: Great shot of the facade
Viewpoint
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Wide angle for city views
Result: Panoramic cityscape
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
McGill University
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Educational
Mount Royal Park
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Park
Botanical Garden
Distance: 3 km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Garden
Olympic Park
Distance: 4 km
Walking: 50 min
Type: Sports
Reviews
Based on 12,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book guided tours in advance"
- "Visit early for fewer crowds"
- "Don't miss the viewpoint for breathtaking city views"
- "Try the local pastries at the cafe"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
24
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
12,000
Adult Entry
$10 (general admission), $25 (guided tour)