More about: Montreal Ice Hockey NHL Games 2026-2027: Tickets and Best Prices
If you don’t want to leave Montreal without enjoying all the city’s traditional activities, then you absolutely must book tickets to a Canadiens ice hockey game—the best team in NHL history and one of the greatest global ambassadors for Canada’s national sport.
Among the best things to see and do in Montreal is, of course, attending an ice hockey game, which you can do by visiting the Bell Centre, where the Canadiens play their home games. Here are all the tips you need to enjoy this popular tradition.
What ice hockey games can I watch in Montreal?
In Montreal, you can enjoy thrilling ice hockey games, as the city is home to one of the NHL’s most iconic teams, the Montreal Canadiens. Their home games are played at the Bell Centre, and the regular season typically runs from late September or October through April, making it one of the best options if you’re planning to visit Montreal in the winter.
In addition to NHL games, you can also find other ice hockey events in the Montreal area. Depending on each season’s schedule, you can catch minor-league games, college games, or women’s competitions such as those featuring the Montréal Victoire, the city’s team in the Professional Women’s Hockey League.
In September, the Montreal Canadiens start revving up before the NHL season begins with games featuring up-and-coming talent, preseason matches, and the first major official matchup of the season. Here are some of the month’s most exciting events:
- Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Montreal Canadiens – September 14: One of the most compelling matchups of the Prospect Showdown, pitting the rookies of two historic franchises against each other.
- Montreal Canadiens vs. Toronto Maple Leafs – September 19: A split-squad preseason game, perfect for getting a first look at the team’s performance before the official start of the season.
- Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Montreal Canadiens – September 29: The first game of the 2026–27 regular season, featuring a Canadian classic to kick off the Canadiens’ schedule.
Where can I buy tickets to see ice hockey games in Montreal?
The Montreal Canadiens, known as the Habs, play at the Bell Centre, a modern arena located in the heart of the city, which is often included in Montreal’s top guided tours.
There, you can experience the passion of hockey, watch NHL games, and soak up the arena’s electrifying atmosphere, fueled by thousands of cheering fans.
If you’re looking to buy tickets to see ice hockey games in Montreal, book tickets to see the Canadiens in the NHL at the Bell Centre, or even watch the team play on the road at other nearby venues, you have several options available.
Buy through an online ticketing platform
These sites offer a wide selection of tickets available for hockey games in Montreal. You can filter by date, seat location, and price to find the best option that fits your preferences and budget.
In these cases , you might have better luck buying at the last minute and may even find better prices and seat locations that aren’t available on the official website.
On Hellotickets, for example, you can book tickets to see the Canadiens play in the NHL at the Ball Center.
Buying Tickets on the Canadiens’ Official Website
On the Montreal Canadiens’ website, you’ll find up-to-date information on upcoming games and can buy tickets directly.
Keep in mind that the official website only sells tickets that are available outside of season ticket packages, if any, so the selection is usually quite limited, and you’ll need to book in advance to secure seats.
Buy tickets in person
If you prefer to buy tickets in person, you can visit the box office at the Bell Centre, the stadium where the Montreal Canadiens play.
Keep in mind, however, that due to the team’s popularity, it’s advisable to buy tickets in advance to ensure you get the seats you want, regardless of when you visit Montreal.
In addition, you may find local ticket resellers or travel agencies offering packages that include tickets to hockey games. These options can provide a more complete experience by combining tickets with other services such as transportation, lodging, or even trips to nearby cities where the Canadiens also frequently play, such as traveling from Montreal to Ottawa or Ontario.
How much does it cost to see an ice hockey game in Montreal?
The Montreal Canadiens are very popular, and ticket prices can be higher compared to other teams. Plus, attending a hockey game is just as sought-after as taking a cruise or visiting the Notre-Dame Basilica.
On the other hand, seats closest to the ice and in premium sections tend to be more expensive, while tickets to see the Canadiens in the NHL in upper levels or sections with partial views can be more affordable, starting at 40 or 50 euros.
Additionally, the most popular games and those against well-known teams tend to have higher prices due to greater demand. Special events or playoff games may even have even higher prices, especially if they coincide with holidays such as New Year’s Eve or Christmas in Montreal.
How can you save on tickets to an ice hockey game in Montreal?
- Buy in advance: Prices are often lower when you buy in advance, since demand hasn’t yet increased or the team’s results aren’t known yet. However, on ticketing platforms, it’s sometimes better to wait until the last minute.
- Consider less popular days and times: Games on weekdays or at less conventional times tend to have lower demand.
- Explore options from authorized resellers: Some online ticket platforms offer tickets from authorized resellers, where you can find tickets at more affordable prices. Be sure to verify the sellers’ authenticity and read reviews from other buyers to ensure a safe purchase.
Remember that availability and prices may vary depending on demand and the game’s popularity. It’s important to research and compare prices across different sources before making a purchase.
With a little planning and smart searching, you can book affordable tickets to see the Canadiens in the NHL and enjoy a hockey game without breaking your budget—even if you’re planning to visit Montreal in December or during the winter months.
Can I visit the stadiums without watching an ice hockey game in Montreal?
Yes, it’s possible to visit the stadiums even if you don’t plan to attend a specific game. You can take a guided tour of Montreal or visit the Bell Centre directly, as hockey stadiums often offer guided tours that let you explore the facilities and learn about their history.
During a stadium tour, you’ll be able to explore areas such as the players’ locker rooms, the press room, and the luxury suites. You’ll learn about Montreal’s rich hockey tradition, discover interesting facts about the local team, and even have the opportunity to see trophies and historical artifacts.
If you’re interested, I recommend checking the schedules and availability of guided tours, though you can always include it in your tour of Montreal’s best museums or combine it with other activities if you plan to visit the city in the summer or outside the NHL’s regular season, when there are no games.
When can I watch an ice hockey game in Montreal?
In Montreal, you can attend ice hockey games during the NHL season, which generally runs from October to April. During this period, the Canadiens, the local team, play a series of games at their home arena, the Bell Centre. Game schedules vary .
In addition to the regular NHL season, Montreal has also hosted special hockey events such as outdoor games or exhibition matches. These events offer a unique experience and are often held on specific dates, which are announced in advance.
It’s important to keep in mind that the game schedule is subject to change, so I recommend checking the official NHL calendar or the Montreal Canadiens’ website for the most up-to-date information and to be able to purchase tickets in advance—especially since this is one of the best things to do in Montreal at night.
How long does an ice hockey game last?
Ice hockey games last a total of 60 minutes, divided into three 20-minute periods, with 15-minute intermissions between each period. Therefore, including the 15-minute breaks between each of the three periods, an ice hockey game lasts approximately 2½ hours in total.
This makes it a great fit even for a short stay in the city. If that’s your situation, here are several ideas for exploring Montreal in 2 days.
If the score is tied at the end of regulation time, the game may go into overtime, be decided by a shootout, or by a “golden goal.”
Do children have to pay to see an ice hockey game in Montreal?
In general, children do need to purchase tickets to watch a hockey game in Montreal. However, prices and policies may vary depending on the arena and the specific event you’re attending.
Most NHL teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, offer discounted tickets for children. These discounts typically apply to children under a certain age, usually 2 to 12 years old, though policies may vary.
Very young children, such as infants, usually get in for free as long as they do not occupy a seat. In addition, some teams and arenas also offer special pricing for family groups. These packages are often a popular choice for families who want to enjoy a hockey game together and are planning to visit Montreal with children.
Tips for watching an ice hockey game in Montreal
- Plan ahead: Check the Montreal Canadiens’ game schedule and buy your tickets as early as possible to secure a seat.
- Arrive early at the arena: to avoid crowds and have plenty of time to enjoy the pre-game atmosphere. This will allow you to explore the facilities, buy souvenirs, and enjoy the pre-game activities.
- Get in the game spirit: Hockey games in Montreal are known for their passionate and energetic atmosphere. Don’t hesitate to join in the fans’ chants and cheers, and enjoy the excitement of the game.
- Don’t miss the intermission shows: During intermissions, various entertainment activities take place on the ice, ranging from shootouts to musical performances.