Canadians say they're visiting this European-like city near Ottawa instead of the US this year

If you’re craving a taste of Europe without the pricey plane ticket, you don’t need to cross the Atlantic — or even the U.S. border.

Instead of planning a weekend getaway south of the border, many Canadians are choosing to head east to soak in a little European flair, no passport required.

We asked readers on Narcity's Facebook page to share the destinations they're choosing to visit over the U.S. this year, and this beautiful island city was one of the spots mentioned.

Set on an island in the St. Lawrence River, Montreal is famous for its blend of old-world charm and modern city vibes. With cobblestone streets, historic architecture and a strong French culture, the city offers a taste of Europe right here in Canada.

The city is just a two-hour drive from Ottawa, making it great for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Montreal offers historic charm, a rich culinary scene, and plenty of cultural attractions.

One of the city’s biggest draws is Old Montreal, where you can wander through centuries-old streets that will take you back nearly 400 years and take in architecture dating back as far as 1685.

Visit the breathtaking Notre-Dame Basilica to admire the incredible stained-glass art, or stroll in the Old Port of Montreal, a popular destination for outdoor activities and festivals. The area's historic buildings and bustling squares make it easy to forget you're still in Canada.

Place Jacques-Cartier is a great place to find a terrace for a drink, where you’ll be perfectly positioned to watch street performers and portrait artists.

If you're into shopping, head to Saint Catherine Street, one of the longest commercial strips in Canada, to find a blend of international fashion mainstays and regional retailers.

Part of the "joie de vivre" culture of Montreal includes dining on some delicious food. With this in mind, you'll want to make sure you're trying some of the city's top eats before you leave.

A smoked-meat sandwich from the world-famous Schwartz’s deli is a must, as is a classic Montreal bagel from Fairmount Bagel Bakery or St-Viateur Bagel. And of course, no trip to Montreal would be complete without sampling poutine -- try La Banquise, a spot said to have the best in the city.

The culinary offerings of Montreal's markets are equally worth exploring.

Marché Jean-Talon is the largest and most culturally diverse market in Montreal, offering a wide range of regional products from across Quebec.

Or, there's the art deco-style Marché Atwater, which offers an array of specialty products and delicatessen treats.

While you're here, don't miss out on some of the city's top cultural attractions, including the Montréal Botanical Garden, which features seasonal installations such as a Chinese lantern festival in the fall, and the Biodôme, where five ecosystems are home to over 250 different animal species.

For some outdoor exploration, check out Mount Royal. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (who also designed New York’s Central Park), the park at the heart of the city is Montreal’s most iconic landmark. Reach the viewpoint at the top of Mount Royal Park by walking up the stairs, where you can take in the breathtaking views.

Whether you visit for a weekend getaway or an activity-packed day trip, Montreal is sure to satisfy your European wanderlust — no plane ticket required

Tourisme Montréal website