This basilica is simply beautiful. There's a $5 charge to enter which is unlike any European church I've been to, but the money goes to the upkeep and any restorations needed. Upon entering, my breath was taken away. The basilica is huge and the altar is amazing. It's lit in blue hues and ornate. There are alcoves and little altars along the sides to light candles and pray, also there are large beautiful paintings depicting the stations of the cross. The sculptures are beautiful as well. Don't miss the chapel that was rebuilt after a fire destroyed it in the late 1970s. This chapel was an unexpected surprise with the focal point a massive bronze sculpture. Both this chapel and the basilica have huge organs high above in the rear. There is also a special glassed praying area so you can pray without the noise and people walking around taking photos. This basilica should be on your list of places to visit while in Old Montreal.