A record 98% score in the GDS-Index
Tourisme Montréal announced on 24 September 2026 that it has been ranked first in the world in the destination management category of the Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) 2026. The organisation achieved a score of 98%, described as an unmatched performance internationally.
The result lifts Montréal from 20th to 9th place worldwide among the 81 participating destinations, bringing the Québec metropolis into the Top 10 most sustainable destinations in the world. It is the first time in the history of the GDS-Index that a city outside Europe has topped this category.
Yves Lalumière, President and CEO of Tourisme Montréal, said that securing first place worldwide in destination management was particularly significant for the organisation, and that entering the global Top 10 represented immense recognition for Montréal. He thanked the organisation’s teams, its members and all the stakeholders contributing to the destination’s development, adding that its approach rests on a long-term vision, collaboration, and a determination to turn ambitions into concrete action and to generate positive benefits for residents, businesses and visitors.
A framework of 74 criteria
The GDS-Index is a benchmarking tool. It enables participating destinations to track their progress and identify areas requiring further effort. The assessment is based on 74 criteria grouped into four categories: environmental performance, social performance, supply chain and destination management.
The framework is also used in Europe, where Geneva, a GDS-Index member since 2016, recently unveiled its responsible tourism strategy for 2026-2030.
Stepped-up support for tourism businesses
Tourisme Montréal has strengthened its support for businesses across the destination through the GreenStep programmes, training and financial assistance. Over two years, 17 organisations have obtained a certification recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
More than 400 stakeholders have also taken part in awareness-raising, support and training initiatives dedicated to the destination’s socio-ecological transition. Working with La Tablée des Chefs, the tourism industry has also recovered more than 200,000 food portions as part of efforts to tackle food waste.
Residents at the heart of the approach
For Tourisme Montréal, managing a destination sustainably is not limited to environmental issues. It also means maximising the positive impact of tourism for residents, communities and the local economy. This approach includes an annual survey of residents’ perceptions of tourism, social impact projects linked to conventions and events, and partnerships with Tourisme Autochtone Québec and Kéroul.
This commitment takes concrete form in the Rediscover your Montréal with free guided tours initiative. The programme was originally scheduled to run from 2 October to 1 November. After more than 1,200 registrations in just a few days, Tourisme Montréal has extended it until 22 November 2026.
The organisation is adding 36 departures in November, representing 720 additional places. This brings the total number of free tours to 100. Each lasts around two hours, with priority given to people living on the island of Montréal and in its immediate surroundings.
The tours are operated by Guidatour and cover Mile End, Little Italy and the Jean-Talon Market, Griffintown, the Golden Square Mile, the murals of the Plateau and downtown, and Old Montréal. One tour, designed with Kéroul, aims to improve accessibility and comfort for participants.
Yves Lalumière noted that the public response confirmed Montrealers’ interest in experiences that allow them to rediscover their own city, adding that Montréal remains a destination worth exploring, even for those who live there.
Our analysis | An argument for the MICE segment
For convention destinations, this ranking carries direct commercial weight. Radisson Hotel Group and GDS-Movement recently published a guide for associations and convention organisers based on GDS-Index data. For Montréal hoteliers positioned in the MICE market, a Top 10 ranking becomes an additional selling point when responding to the CSR requirements set out by international associations. The recognition comes after a busy autumn for the city’s hotel stock. During the UCI Road World Championships, expected occupancy reached as high as 95%. By placing residents at the centre of its strategy, Tourisme Montréal is also addressing a challenge shared by a growing number of destination organisations: securing local acceptance of tourism.
At a glance by The Hospitality Tribune
GDS-Index 2026: Tourisme Montréal ranks first worldwide in destination management
Record 98% score in destination management, a first for a city outside Europe
Montréal climbs from 20th to 9th out of 81 destinations, entering the global Top 10
17 GSTC-recognised certifications in two years; 400+ stakeholders trained and supported
Free guided tours for residents extended to 22 November 2026 after 1,200+ registrations
36 new departures and 720 extra places, bringing the total to 100 tours
