For North Americans, Montreal offers European charm without a European price tag. From the cobblestone walkways of Old Montreal, to the chic shops along Saint Catherine Street, this city blends old and new perfectly.

Here are just a few of the destinations one must check out when visiting this magical Quebec province -- many of which are free or cheap. (Remember that strolling scenic streets won't cost you, even if purchases you make at upscale boutiques do! Since this city is bilingual, I'll even throw in some French translations next to each location free of charge.

Atop the city’s most famous landmark Mont Royal, lies Mont Royal Park. It was designed more than 130 years ago by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same man who created New York City’s Central Park. The park has two designated locations for amazing views of the city below. One of them, named "Kondiaronk Belvedere," overlooks downtown Montreal.

This park is perfect for activities in both warm and cold climates. In the spring and summer months you can check out Beaver Lake, which is a man-made body of water, and rent a pedal boat for a few hours. During those cold months, and there are quite a few, be sure to trek along the snowy trails, while doing some cross-country skiing. The park boast the most amazing trails in the metropolitan area.

Montreal is a very cold city in the winter. Temperatures can be brutal, and hunkering down in your hotel room, you have an alternative route around town. In 1962 Montreal created the Underground City, where many areas of the city are linked to one another without having to go above ground. It is filled with thousand of locals and tourists each day, going to and from hotels, work, restaurants and shopping. I made use of this great feature when I visited Montreal in February, and it was 32 degrees below zero. I was able to walk around the city from my hotel to the main shopping mall without suffering frost bite.

The Old Montreal section of town is a great way to spend the afternoon, just walking down one of the cobblestone streets. The sounds of locals and fellow tourists enjoying numerous activities, mixed with horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping by, make for a great atmosphere. Old Montreal boasts many small souvenir shops, as well as some fine dining options. One location that I highly recommend checking out is Creperie Chez Suzette, where you can chow down on some tasty crepes and delicious fondue. This cute restaurant is popular with locals, and no wonder, it has great food at low prices.

Located in the Old Montreal district, Notre-Dame Basilica has some of the most breathtaking views inside. From the majestic chapel to the gorgeous stained glass, this house of worship is truly a marvel to witness in person. They do charge a small free for visitors: $5 for adults, $4 ages 7-17; kids 6 and under are free.

The new and hip Montreal has many shopping options, and most of them are along Saint Catherine Street, which runs along Montreal’s Underground City. Every July the street hosts a huge sidewalk sale for one weekend only. One mile of shopping outside, and its estimated that anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 people attend this event.