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12 things to know before you go to Montréal

Sep 18, 2023 • 6 min read

Montréal offers a wide range of experiences for the traveler – here's what you need to know before you go © Justin Bisson-Beck / Getty Images

I grew up in Ottawa but my dad was raised in Montréal and still had a lot of friends there, so we’d visit all the time while I was growing up. I can still feel the excitement that tingled in my body every time we went. Montréal was, and is, so thrilling, from the language locals speak (French with a distinct Québécois accent) to the roads (the drivers are super aggressive and you can’t turn right on a red) to the overall fun-loving vibe. So as soon as I could, I moved to Montréal at age 17 to attend Concordia University and I’ve spent much of the last 15 years there.

While construction can make Montréal tough to navigate and rhetoric battles between native French and English speakers persist (I am bilingual so I hear it from both sides), I love this city so much – it’s one of my favorite places in the world. 

That said, there are plenty of rules about living in Montréal that took me years to understand. So even if French is your native language,  here’s a little cheat sheet of 13 things to know before you visit, including whether you can get by in English (you can) and how cold it gets (really cold, but not always).

1. Plan at least three days to visit

If you’re splitting your time between Montréal and Québec City, leave more time for Montréal. There’s much more to see and eat, and some of the city's best moments involve hanging out on a terrasse or in a public park watching the world go by.

2. Go in early summer or fall to escape the cold

Yes, Montréal gets really cold. In January and February, temperatures can drop to -40°C/F with the wind chill, and the city is blanketed in snow and slippery ice. Locals survive by layering up and popping into heated cafes and other venues. And no, locals don’t spend all winter in underground tunnels as some might lead you to believe, but there are some that connect malls downtown.

Montréal isn’t always frigid, though. In June, July and August, the mercury can shoot up to the 30°C (86°F) range and everyone gets particularly excited about the warmth after a long, harsh winter. September and October are great, too, as you’ll get to see tree leaves transform into majestic yellows and reds. 

November and March can be rainy and gray, and there isn’t much to do but complain about how long winter is in Montréal.

3. Bike or metro around

I’ve driven in plenty of countries around the world, and I’d have to say driving in Montréal is one of the worst experiences behind the wheel. Drivers will cut you off without notice and if roads aren’t blocked by dozens of infamous (and highly meme-able) orange construction cones, they’re closed for pedestrians in summer. Plus, parking involves a PhD in physics – check all the signs carefully and park where the arrows are not pointing. 

So, ditch the car and get around on foot or by bike. Montréal has an excellent, affordable bikeshare program called Bixi , which has both regular and electric-assisted bikes available for one-way trips or with a cheap monthly pass. You can also take the metro (subway) to get a feel for life as a Montrealer.

If you do drive, note that you cannot turn right on a red light on the island of Montréal.

4. Don’t spend all your time downtown

Montréal is designed to stuff all the tourists into the Old Port and Downtown, but so much of the city’s magic is in its neighborhoods like Le Plateau, Mile End and St-Henri. Be sure you leave time to explore outside the city core.

5. Make restaurant reservations and prepare to line up

One thing that surprised me when I started living in Montréal is that there are always lineups outside restaurants, regardless of the weather and especially at food institutions like Schwartz’s Deli (smoked meat) and La Banquise (poutine). Leave time to wait in line for establishments that don’t take reservations, and book ahead at those that do. Some restaurants, like Joe Beef , require reservations months in advance.

6. Montréal has its own definition of east and west

Montréal streets are often marked ‘est’ (east) or ‘ouest’ (west), indicating where the road is in relation to Blvd St Laurent aka The Main – hence Rue Sherbooke O and Sherbrooke E. However, if you look at a map, these streets aren’t really east or west. They’re actually northeast and southwest due to the angle of the island. Don’t ask questions and just go with the local lingo. 

7. You aren’t required to speak French (but it’s appreciated)

French is Montréal’s official language, but you can get by in English as a visitor without a problem. After all, nobody can expect you to know every language of all places you visit. That said, it’s friendly to sprinkle in a bonjour or a merci where you can, or to practice any other French vocabulary you may have. Don’t be surprised, however, if Montrealers switch to English – they’re not being mean, they’re just trying to make your life easier.

8. You need to tip

You should tip at least 15% on your total bill after tax unless the service was atrocious. Servers are paid less than the minimum wage because tips are expected, so they rely on your generosity. Is it a screwed up system? Absolutely, but it’s the way it is and your personal tip boycott won’t fix anything.

9. The drinking age is 18, for cannabis it’s 21

Montréal has the lowest drinking age in Canada at 18 years old. You may be asked to show your ID (a driver’s license is fine) to prove your age when buying alcohol at the dépanneur, aka "the dep," a convenience store that sells snacks, beer and cheap wine. Same goes for the SAQ (government liquor and wine store).

Cannabis is legal in Montréal for those over age 21 and can only be purchased at an SQDC government store. Smoking weed in any public spaces, including parks and on the street, is illegal.

10. Have a boozy park picnic

Want a quintessential Montréal experience? Buy a bottle of wine and share it with friends or family in a lovely public park like Parc La Fontaine or Parc Jarry. But note that you can only legally drink alcohol at a picnic table and while eating a meal (ie. a baguette and brie cheese, not simply a bag of chips) or else you could be fined.

11. Cheer for the Habs

Montrealers go crazy for their local National Hockey League team, the Montréal Canadiens – aka the Habs – and the atmosphere at Centre Bell games and sports bars across the city is electric. If cheering for the opposition, prepare for light-hearted bickering and plenty of taunts, especially if your team is the rival Boston Bruins or Toronto Maple Leafs. In fact, if you’re a Bruins or Leafs fan, just stay home (joking, sort of).

12. Montréal is safe, but healthcare isn’t free

Montréal is safe to walk around, but it’s always a good idea to walk in pairs at night no matter where you are. 

If you need to go to the hospital, make sure you have travel insurance – Quebec healthcare is only free for RAMQ card holders and prices will be extremely high if you need to pay out of pocket.

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The Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Montréal-Trudeau International Airport Guide

Where to Stay in Montreal

Public Transit Guide

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Montreal

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Your Trip to Montreal: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Montreal is one of those multifaceted cities that offers something for everyone. From an incredible food scene and buzzing nightlife, to myriad museums and art galleries to vibrant greenspaces and unique architecture, there’s always something interesting to see and do in the city. Whether you want to shop, bar-hop, or simply explore Montreal’s diverse neighborhoods, it won’t be hard to figure out how to spend your visit. For anyone thinking of planning a trip, read on for tips and information on the best attractions and activities, how to get around, where to stay, and what to eat and drink.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit Montreal is typically in the spring (mid-April and May) or during the fall (September to early November). At these times, you'll likely find fewer crowds, cheaper accommodations, and the best weather for sightseeing as it is neither too hot nor too cold. Do keep in mind that winters in Montreal can be very cold.

Language : Montreal has one of the largest French-speaking populations in the world. Nevertheless, visitors to Montreal can get by easily only speaking English. Although it is handy to have a few words in French such as greetings.

Currency: The currency used in Montreal is the Canadian dollar (CAD).

Getting Around : Montreal’s metro (subway) system makes for an efficient means of getting around. There are four lines connecting the downtown centre to major tourist sites, bus stops and train stations. The public transit network consists of 68 metro stops and 220 bus lines  . The city is also very walkable (weather permitting), which makes getting around on foot another good option.

Travel Tip : Passport MTL comes in two-day and three-day versions and gives you access to close to 30 Montréal attractions and unlimited public transportation; it makes for a good way to save money on entrance fees.

Things to Do

Montreal’s world-renowned food scene will be a big draw for those looking to sample some of the city’s best dishes, whether from a tiny bistro tucked down a charming side street, a food truck, gastropub, or fine dining establishment. Anyone interested in spending time outdoors will enjoy the many parks and green spaces that abound in the city as well as the Montreal Botanical Garden. Or head below the streets into the “Underground City” to explore the vast network of pedestrian walkways beneath the city where you’ll find shops, eateries and access to transit.

Go back in time in Old Montreal : A visit to Old Montreal is a must for anyone visiting the city. Even if you don’t have an agenda, just meandering the scenic cobblestone streets is a worthwhile endeavor on its own. You’ll see centuries-old buildings blending seamlessly with trendy bistros and cute cafes and you can easily spend half a day exploring.

Do some shopping along Sainte-Catherine Street : From major department stores to funky boutiques, there is a lot to shop for on Sainte-Catherine Street. From west to east, it stretches 9 miles across the city. Spend an afternoon strolling, visiting shops, people-watching, and making stops at ay of the many cafes and restaurants in the area.

Explore the Old Port : Montreal’s Old Port features a range of things to see and do, making it a great area to spend an afternoon or even a whole day. During the warmer months, relax under a parasol at Clock Tower Beach, rent a paddleboat, or take a boat cruise along the St. Lawrence. You’ll also find plenty of options for food and drink at the various cafes, bars, and food trucks. Old Port is also where you’ll find the Montreal Science Centre and its IMAX theatre, and in the winter, take advantage of the outdoor skating rink.

Hang out in Parc du Mont-Royal : No matter what time of year you visit Montreal, you’ll find something to do at Parc du Mont-Royal. The park is popular among walkers, joggers, and bikers as well as picnickers in the spring and summer. While in the winter, you can enjoy the skating rink and sledding slope or do some snowshoeing. Also known as “the mountain” to locals, you can hike or bike to the summit for lovely views.

Check out our full length articles on the best things to do in downtown Montreal , the best attractions in Old Montreal , and where to go shopping in Montreal .

Where to Eat and Drink

Montreal’s culinary influences are wide ranging and go well beyond classic French fare. You can find almost anything you might be craving here, such as Middle Eastern, Thai, elevated Quebecois dishes, and nearly everything in between. Despite the exciting diversity, there are a few things to seek out in terms of food while you’re in the city. First up, poutine: that gooey, delicious mess of French fries, gravy and squeaky cheese curds. You can find poutine all over Canada, but you really don’t want to miss out in Montreal. Even if you’re vegan or vegetarian, you should be able to find an option to try. Next up is bagels. But not just any bagels—these are Montreal style. These are boiled in water sweetened with honey, and then cooked in a wood-fired oven for a satisfying chew and golden brown exterior. If you are a meat eater, you will also want to seek out a Montreal smoked meat sandwich, popular throughout the city.

Beer drinkers will also be happy to know that there are close to 30 microbreweries in the city, so finding a local brew won’t be difficult. In addition, make sure to stop by the iconic Jean-Talon Market in the heart of Montreal’s Little Italy neighborhoods, one of North America’s largest open-air public markets. Here you’ll find everything from fresh produce and flowers, to cheese, meats, specialty food items, and much more.

Learn more about the food scene in Montreal with our articles on the best brunch spots in Montreal , Montreal’s best late night food , vegetarian restaurants in Montreal , and Montreal’s best terraces and rooftop patios .

Where to Stay

In Montreal you have your pick of stylish boutique hotels, luxury properties, business-oriented hotels, family-friendly hotels, and more. There are more than 25,000 rooms in the city (with 16,000 located downtown) . Downtown is a good option in terms of where to stay since many of the city’s hotels can be found here, as well as a wide variety of the city’s attractions, museums, restaurants, cafes, and bars. Another good option is Old Montreal, which has its own fair share of hotels. This gives you easy access to the area’s historic architecture, cobblestone streets, boutiques, and bistros. You’ll also be very close to the Old Port, with its own set of fun attractions and activities.

For more about where to stay in Montreal, take a look at our full length stories on the best boutique hotels in Montreal and the best hotels in Old Montreal .

Getting There

You can get to Montreal in several ways. If you plan on flying, Montreal's Trudeau International Airport is about 20 minutes by car from downtown Montreal. The convenient 747 Express bus operates 24/7 year-round and will get you to one of nine downtown stops in 40 to 60 minutes  .

In terms of driving, Montreal is about a three-hour drive west from the provincial capital, Quebec City, about a six-hour drive east from Toronto, and six hours north of New York City.

If you prefer to arrive by train, VIA Rail makes for a scenic and relaxing ride. Their rail network connects many major cities to Montréal, you can choose from 17 daily departures from Gare Centrale  .

As for the bus, Greyhound Lines serves Montreal from numerous cities in the US and Canada. Buses arrive at Montreal Bus Central Station, which is connected to the Berri-UQAM metro station.

Money Saving Tips

• Spend some time browsing both the Jean-Talon Market and Atwater Market for a free and fun way to get a sense of all the great food available in the city. While you may be tempted to buy, browsing doesn’t cost anything.
• You can visit a few of the city’s museums for free on certain days of the month, including the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts where the permanent collection is free on the first Sunday of the month; or the Centre Canadien d'Architecture which is free on Thursdays after 5:30 p.m. and on the first Sunday of each month.
• There is plenty to see and do in Jean-Drapeau park, which offers everything from a beach, gardens and picnic areas, to an aquatic centre, hiking trails, bike paths, and canoe and kayak rentals. You’ll also find public art here, as well as a rock climbing wall.

Find out more with our full length article on the 25 best free and cheap things to do in Montreal.

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Explore Montreal

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Montreal   Travel Guide

Courtesy of © Stéphan Poulin - Tourisme Montréal |

Why Go To Montreal

Two words of friendly greeting capture the essence of Montréal: " Bonjour, hi." When you hear them, you’ll know the person you’re meeting is bilingual, like most folks here. The people of Montréal are both fiercely proud of the city’s French heritage, culture and language, and welcoming to non-French-speaking visitors. The local architecture reflects a mix of the Old and New Worlds. Its unique skyline mingles 19th-century Beaux-Arts structures with 21st-century contemporary gems. Historic stone houses are now home to funky fusion restaurants. And languages from around the world can be heard on the street, along with the “rolled r” of native French speakers. Rainbow banners fly alongside Canada’s red and white maple leaf flag, while traditional French and Italian pastries are sold next door to distinctly sweet Montréal-style bagels. Just when you thought you'd seen it all, a short escalator ride takes you down to RÉSO, Montréal's huge Underground City.

This versatile city's top attractions range from world-class museums to bustling outdoor marketplaces. Start your journey along the ancient cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montréal . Here, you can explore historic cathedrals or grab a cappuccino at one of the traditional French cafes along Rue Saint Paul. Head to Greene Avenue and Westmount Square for an afternoon of high-end shopping or hike up to Mount Royal Park for a boat ride. Just make sure to save some energy for the evening. Montréal – especially Saint-Laurent Boulevard between Mile End and the Plateau – has a lively nightlife scene that parties on until the wee hours of the morning.

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• # 1 in Best Weekend Getaways
• # 7 in Best Places to Visit in Spring
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• # 1 in Four Seasons Montreal
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Best Things to Do in Montreal

• # 1 in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
• # 2 in Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal (Basilique Notre-Dame de Montreal)
• # 3 in Parc du Mont-Royal (Mount Royal Park)

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Montreal Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Montréal is from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is mild and hotel vacancies are plentiful. But aside from fluctuating accommodation rates, you'll discover that there really isn't a bad time to vacation here. Warm summer temperatures make exploring on foot enjoyable, while the heated Underground City makes walking downtown more pleasant during the winter. If you are drawn to the temperate summer months, make sure to book well in advance for the best rate: Montréal hosts numerous popular festivals during patio season.

Weather in Montreal

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Montréal is bilingual Almost 80% of Montréalers speak both English and French, and almost 30% are trilingual, a higher percentage than you’ll find in any major Canadian city. Even so, you may find it handy to bring a phrasebook or download the Google Translate smartphone app for menu items or signage on your trip.

Prepare for cold weather This city is no stranger to winter weather. Between December and March, temperatures range from an average low of 10 degrees Fahrenheit to a high, if you can call it that, of 24 degrees. The real issue is the high humidity and the biting wind that blows off the St. Lawrence River, which makes it feel much colder. Pack plenty of warm clothes and sturdy winter boots during winter months.

Leave the car behind Although parking is cheap, gas prices are not. For the most part, the expansive public transportation system will get you where you need to go.

How to Save Money in Montreal

Travel during the shoulder seasons Early spring and late fall are quieter times for Montréal, meaning hotels and restaurants are not as crowded, spring flowers are blooming or fall colors are at their best.

Rely on your own two feet Montréal is a very walkable city, especially if you explore it by neighborhood. If your feet grow weary, public transportation is both convenient and cheap.

Go sightseeing Many of the most beloved attractions – including Vieux-Montréal, St. Joseph's Oratory and Mount Royal Park – do not charge admission.

Culture & Customs

Montréal is located in the French-speaking province of Quebec. Although you won't have any trouble finding English speakers here, you may want to come prepared with a few French phrases such as " bonjour " (hello), " s'il vous plaît " (please) and " merci " (thank you).

The official currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar, which is roughly equal to $0.75 U.S. dollars. When it comes to most other cultural factors, including dress, restaurant and tipping etiquette, Montréal does not differ too greatly from major American cities.

What to Eat

Like the French, Montréalers pride themselves on top-notch cuisine. Although the traditional French influence still reigns supreme, Montréal's dining scene has broadened over the past few years and Portuguese, Thai, Moroccan, Indian, Mexican and numerous other international dishes are now easy to find. Whether you're looking for steak frites or sushi, a taste of Paris or a little surprise of je ne sais quoi , Montréal has it all.

If you're looking for Canadian staples, you'll find those available as well, including poutine (french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy), or warm maple syrup poured over ice and rolled up on a popsicle stick. Montréal-specific specialties include mile high smoked meat sandwiches (try Schwartz's ) and sweet bagels boiled in honey infused water (which some say rival even those from New York City). Fairmount Bagel and St-Viateur Bagel Shop have been duking it out for the title of the city's best bagels for generations.

If it's a bit of traditional French cuisine that you're craving, head to Vieux-Montréal , where many of the historic buildings now house French bistros and restaurants ( restos ). Italian restaurants and steak houses can be found on almost every corner here too. If you're looking for a more contemporary take on traditional favorites, try one of the upscale neighborhoods like the Golden Mile where chef-driven restaurants have become major foodie hubs over the past several years. For Greek, German, Mexican, Portuguese food and more, take a stroll through the Mile End neighborhood just north of Parc du Mont-Royal , home to a wide array of international eateries as well as some of the best pastry shops in town.

Montréal is safer than most U.S. and European cities of similar size. But it's still necessary to exercise common sense, especially after sundown. Avoid walking alone at night and keep an eye on your valuables. Nightlife hot spots, such as Rue St-Denis and Rue Ste-Catherine, can sometimes draw rowdier crowds. Montréalers are generally very tolerating of all lifestyles and forms of discrimination are rare.  Political demonstrations do take place, but they are not frequent.

Getting Around Montreal

The best way to get around Montréal is on foot. Montréal is a very walkable city, but if your feet grow weary, the Montréal Métro and bus are both cost-efficient and easy to use. If biking is more your style, pick up a public rental at BIXI racks around town.

A public shuttle bus (No. 747) runs between downtown and the Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) 24 hours a day. There are two routes into the city. One drops visitors off downtown, making 11 stops along the way. The other is a straight shot to the Lionel-Groulx station, where you can hop on a métro train to your desired destination. Rides cost CA$11 (roughly $8) per person. You can also take a cab from the airport to downtown, which will cost CA$49.45 (around $36) before midnight and CA$56.70 (around $41) between midnight and 5 a.m.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport is required for citizens of the United States to travel to Montréal, and to re-enter the country. If you are planning to drive, you must produce a passport, passport card or NEXUS card that allows expedited border crossings for both private and commercial travelers through Canadian and U.S. border controls. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department website .

Enjoy a thrilling view of Old Montreal , the city center and the St. Lawrence River on the highest Ferris wheel in Canada, La Grande Roue de Montréal .

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20 Best Things to Do in Montreal

By Todd Plummer

Montreal is one of Canada's most exciting cities, but it's also an incredibly historic place. When French explorer Jacques Cartier visited what is now known as Montreal in 1535, he found a thriving community of St. Lawrence Iroquois, whom are now believed to have inhabited the area for at least 3,000 years. Flash forward to today, and there are centuries of history weaving their way through each and every neighborhood, and a plethora of museums, tours, and architecture that all speak to that. But Montreal hums a modern tune as well, with music and nightlife, and world-class design and technology community, and some of the best food in the world . From Plateau to Verdun, our editor's picks of what to do in Montreal will have you leaving the city enlightened, full, and probably a little bit tired—all marks of a trip well spent.

Read our full Montreal travel guide here .

Mount Royal Arrow

Mount Royal Park, Montreal's unofficial playground north of downtown, was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (of Central Park fame) and inaugurated in 1876. The park sprawls more than 692 acres and is a favorite destination of Montrealers, who make use of the park year-round, from jogging and enjoying family picnics in summertime, to skiing and tobogganing in winter. Attractions include the Mount Royal Cross (first erected in 1643), Mount Royal Chalet, Beaver Lake, and Sir George Etienne Cartier Monument.

La Grande Roue de Montréal Arrow

Situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River just steps from Old Montreal, the largest observation wheel in Canada, brings guests nearly 200 feet into the sky, offering panoramic views over the city, tee river, and Mount Royal. It’s touristy, but it’s worth it for those of us who love seeing cities from above. Bringing you high above Old Montréal, each ride is long enough for you to appreciate the sights and start to understand the city’s topography, but not so long that you’re wishing it would be over. For added thrills, upgrade to the “VIP Package” aboard gondola number 42: It’s the only one on the wheel that has a glass floor and Italian leather seats.

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Arrow

The MMFA was founded in 1860 and has since grown into one of the most visited museums in North America; visitors flock from all corners of the globe to view the outstanding permanent collection: some 43,000 works from antiquity to today, much of it on display throughout five pavilions. The enormous institution also hosts seasonal blockbuster exhibitions. Be sure to visit the breathtaking Napoleon collection.

McGill University Arrow

Canada's leading research university occupies a prime piece of picture perfect real estate in central Montreal, nestled between Mount Royal and the skyscrapers of downtown. Whether you're dropping in for a lecture or just passing through on your points elsewhere, spend a little time getting lost amid the buildings here and you'll be rewarded with some serious Hogwarts vibes. Walking up the main entrance from the front gates, you'll be greeted by the inspiring, iconic tableau of the Arts Building cupola framed by Mount Royal; museums and libraries are to your left, and imposing gothic revival classroom buildings to your right. Guided tours are available and depart from the Welcome Center on rue McTavish, just make sure to sign up online as group sizes are limited.

Jessica Puckett

Lee Marshall

Meaghan Kenny

Marché Jean-Talon Arrow

In the heart of Little Italy, Jean Talon Market, one of the largest open-air markets in North America, is an unmissable Montreal experience for food lovers. The space, which is full of small shopkeepers, bustles with activity year-round; you'll find local fruit and vegetable growers, butchers, bakers, fishmongers, grocers, and restaurateurs. It's hugely popular with locals and tourists, and if you're looking for old-world charm, there's nothing better.

OASIS Immersion Arrow

There's a deep history of and passion for design and technology in Montreal, and this immersive exhibit held at the Palais des Congres is the largest of its kind in Canada. The show itself is a stunning display of natural landscapes, videos of artists performing and creating, poetry that floats across the screen, and psychedelic designs that transport the audience; the substance of the show itself appeals to adults and children alike. Because you need to book tickets in advance the exhibit never gets too crowded, so you'll be able to keep your distance from others and experience the magic without feeling cramped. Expect to hear lots of "oohs" and "ahs."

Space for Life Arrow

The Montréal Space for Life, home to the Biodôme, Insectarium, Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, and Botanical Garden, is the largest natural sciences museum complex in Canada. This is a great place to explore and embrace the natural world; don't miss the “Gardens of Light” lantern festival and the dazzling “Butterflies Go Free” event, both held annually at the Botanical Garden.

Cafe Olimpico Arrow

Founded in 1970, Café Olimpico is a European-style café that serves a wonderful selection of coffee, espresso drinks, and Italian pastries. The Mile End landmark is a favorite among hipsters and artists, including Montreal-raised singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright.

Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau Arrow

There are two volumes of conversation allowed at Bota Bota, a floating spa docked in Montreal's Old Port: “quiet” and "silence." Since opening in 2010, it has become an attraction for locals and tourists drawn to its spa treatments and hydrotherapy circuit. You can soak in a mineral-rich hot tub—and perhaps conquer that jet lag—while gazing upon the Downtown core, Mount Royal, and the historic Old Port, all from the river. While admission is typically limited to guests over the age of 18, the spa recently brought back its popular “Pirates Layover,” where children between 12 and 17 can visit on select dates to learn about and experience the benefits of hydrotherapy.

MURAL Festival Arrow

From Mile-End to Griffintown, Montreal is covered with murals. Public art is a huge part of the city’s cultural landscape, and each summer for about ten days, the annual MURAL Festival offers live painting sessions, workshops, and music performances in celebration of the street artists who keep this city (which can be oppressively grey and cold for much of the year) so colorful. Luckily for those of us who can’t make the trip up north during the festival itself, many of the murals are left up year-round. Boulevard Saint-Laurent is now the largest street art corridor in Canada, with works ranging from figurative representations of historic Montrealers to more abstract designs: The MURAL Festival website has a wonderful dynamic map to help you navigate them all.

Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill Arrow

Upstairs, located downtown, is home to many Montreal-based acts, such as renowned drummer Jim Doxas, blues queen Dawn Tyler Watson, and jazz legend Ranee Lee. But international musicians often headline at the club too, which was also the first off-site jazz club to be a part of the Montreal International Jazz Festival; it has also been selected by Downbeat Magazine as one of the world’s 150 most important jazz clubs, so you know there'll always be something good on.

Pointe-à-Callière - Museum of Archaeology and History Arrow

Pointe-à-Callière, the largest archaeology museum in Canada, is built atop the historic Old Montreal sites where the city was founded in 1642. There is lots of drama here, from the excavated remains of the original settlement to interactive video installations. Pointe-à-Callière also presents three to four temporary exhibitions every year.

Saint Joseph's Oratory Arrow

The majestic Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, one of the world’s great Catholic basilicas, was founded by Saint Brother André, who is credited with thousands of miraculous healings. More than 2 million people visit the pilgrimage site each year (both religious and non-religious), and its dome is the third-largest of its kind in the world after the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro in Côte d'Ivoire and Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome . It's without question one of Montreal's most impressive architectural jewels.

Beyond the Bagel Tour – Museum of Jewish Montreal Arrow

Jewish food historian Kat Romanow knows her bagels, bialys, and rugelachs. Her Beyond the Bagel walking food tour, offered through the Museum of Jewish Montreal, is a highly informative, well-organized romp. The Plateau and Mile End might be known today for their posh hipsters and nightlife hotspots, but this tour pulls back the curtain on the layers of history found in this part of the city. It's a much more fulfilling dive into Montreal cuisine than just grabbing a bagel or smoked meat sandwich on your own. As much of the excursion is outdoors, just note that this one is not generally offered between November and March.

Lachine Canal Arrow

The Lachine Canal flows from the historic buildings of Old Montreal, past the gentrified glass condo buildings of Griffintown, and through the hipster neighborhood of St. Henri before flowing into the industrial areas of Angrignon and Lasalle. Because it cuts through so many residential neighborhoods, you'll get a real glimpse of how Montrealers spend their downtime. On warm summer days, there isn't a better place to go for a jog or walk in the city.

Guidatour's Old Montréal Walking Tour Arrow

Guidatour's professional guides have earned their excellent reputations, and the company's Old Montréal East and Old Montréal West itineraries both stop off at the must-see Notre-Dame Basilica , including an interior visit at no additional charge. Both tours last 90 minutes, and they're best for those looking for a crash course in the history of Montreal. You'll be amazed at how many hidden treasures you stumble upon in such a short time span. As much of Guidatour’s offerings are held outdoors, scheduled tours are generally on hold for the colder months. If you can brave the cold, however, feel free to reach out directly through their website to inquire about setting up a private tour.

Les Tam-Tams du Mont Royal Arrow

Since the mid 1960s, the informal, yet institutionalized, phenomenon known as Tam Tams has been one of the city's quirkiest and most beloved traditions, coming to Mont Royal Park every Sunday during the warmer months. At the base of the George-Étienne Cartier Monument obelisk, groups of friends, strangers, and percussionists from all walks of life gather to form communal drum circles, artisans and craftspeople sell their wares and LARPers (that's, Live Action Role Players) have lightsaber fights and medieval jousting matches.

Cité Mémoire Arrow

Cité Mémoire, the largest outdoor video-projection installation in the world, features 25 tableaux composed of images projected on alley walls, trees and the ground throughout Old Montréal accompanied by narration, and music. The work as a whole tells stories of famous and not-so-famous Montrealers; and they put forward themes and values central to the city's identity. You'll learn about Marguerite Bourgeoys, the French founder of the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal, as well as sports icons Jackie Robinson (whose season with the Montreal Royals was important in his breaking of baseball's color barrier) and Maurice Richard. There are also tableaux about The Jewish Children’s Transport train (the orphans who survived Nazi concentration camps and were adopted by Montrealers); the burning of the Parliament in Montreal in 1849; Montreal’s fabled Sin City era (set to the rhythm of Montrealer and jazz icon Oscar Peterson’s piano).

La Banquise Arrow

If you go to just one poutine joint in Montréal, make it la Banquise in the Plateau district a 1968 institution that's known far and wide for its classic and comprehensive poutine menu. You'll find something for everybody here, from meat gravy to vegan sauce. Late night, be prepared for long queues of hungry club-goers.

Cabaret Mado Arrow

Like much of Montreal's Gay Village, Cabaret Mado, a cabaret drag bar, is a little gritty, a little sparkly, and utterly fabulous. Mado, an icon in Quebec's vibrant gay scene who has performed for more than 30 years, often oversees the nightly festivities herself by hosting live drag shows most nights of the week. It's a pretty intimate space, so there isn't a bad seat in the house. Just be warned: Those seated in the front row are most vulnerable to be corralled into the show (willingly or unwillingly).

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Montreal 3 Day Itinerary: 72 Hours in Montreal for the Ultimate Getaway

Posted on Published: October 16, 2020  - Last updated: March 15, 2024

Categories Blog , Canada , City Guides , Montreal , Quebec , Travel Guides

This Montreal 3 day itinerary will show you how to have an amazing getaway to this fantastic Canadian city. There are so many awesome things to do in Montreal, and I’ve created a Montreal itinerary that I’m sure you will love, too. As I live in the Toronto area, I’ve been to Montreal on numerous occasions (it’s only about a five hour drive away). With this handy travel guide, you can spend the best 3 days in Montreal ever, whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve gone a few times before.

Whether it’s one day , 36 hours, 2 days in Montreal, or a long weekend, this travel blog will give you lots of great ideas when searching for what to do in Montreal. Feel free to pick and choose your favorite aspects or follow it to a T. This Montreal 3 day itinerary will allow you to see the most iconic areas of the city, plus some of its hidden gems. Ready? Let’s go!

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

Table of Contents

Day 1: Old Montreal and Old Port

One of the first areas of the city that comes to mind when you think of Montreal might be Old Montreal and Old Port. With its cobblestone streets and grandiose architecture, you might feel like you’ve transported yourself to Europe. It makes sense to start your first day in Old Montreal.

In the first day of this Montreal 3 day itinerary, we’ll explore Old Montreal by foot and also wander to some nearby neighborhoods. Then, I highly recommend that you rent a bike and do some cycling. Montreal is a very bike-friendly city. Cycling around Montreal is one way that you’ll feel connected to the city and feel a little more like a local resident.

Old Montreal

Old Montreal (Vieux Montreal) likely tops your list of the best places to see on a weekend trip to Montreal. We’ll start the first day of your 3 days in Montreal with a walking trip around Old Montreal and other notable areas near downtown Montreal.

I recommend that you wander around Old Montreal on foot. Walk up and down all of its streets and side streets. You never know what you might discover around each corner. The historic cobblestone streets and old architecture definitely ooze European vibes.

If you enjoy walking tours to get acquainted with new cities, there’s no better place in Montreal to go for a walking tour than Old Montreal. I suggest booking this Old Montreal Walking Tour that’s about two hours long with a maximum of six people per group.

More into spooky experiences? Check out this Old Montreal Ghost Walking Tour of the older parts of the city. Hear chilling stories and tales from your guide, and be on the lookout for the spirits that haunt Old Montreal. There are lots of scary tales and unexplained mysteries, and your guide will share all of the gruesome details.

Rue Saint-Paul

Rue Saint-Paul is the oldest street in Montreal, and some of its cobblestones date back to 1672. Yes, there are many souvenir shops on this stretch. However, keep walking and you’ll find some interesting boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and patios.

Bonsecours Market

Bonsecours Market is the home of the largest public market in Montreal, dating back 150 years. You can’t miss its glimmering silver dome. It was built in 1847 and once served as City Hall. It became Montreal’s main marketplace for over a century until it closed in the 1960s.

Nowadays, it’s a heritage building that was recently renovated in the 1990s. You’ll find it on Rue Saint-Claude. It’s no longer the traditional farmers market that it used to be, but you’ll find lots of boutique and high end shops inside this grandiose building. There are also three restaurants, including a cafe, a brewpub, and a Japanese sushi restaurant.

We didn’t do much shopping inside the Bonsecours Market, but Justin and I definitely took a moment to admire this stately architectural work before continuing on our way. If you’re looking for a public market, head to the Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy.

Notre-Dame Basilica / Basilique Notre-Dame

Notre-Dame Basilica in Old Montreal is one of the most visited monuments in North America with over 11 million visitors annually. This work of Gothic Revival architecture is one of the most brilliant and dramatic, decorated in blue and gold. The stained glass windows depict scenes from Montreal’s religious history rather than biblical scenes. There is a small admission fee to visit Notre-Dame Basilica as a tourist.

By night, you can visit Notre-Dame Basilica for AURA , an illuminating light show experience at the cathedral. It’s a three act multimedia spectacular featuring the architecture, lights, and orchestral music. It’s a fascinating and captivating way to visit the cathedral at night time.

Artist Alley on Rue Saint-Amable

The Arts Court, Artist Alley, or as its officially known, La Cour des Arts du Vieux-Montreal, is a must visit for those looking to purchase a gift or memento from their trip. Its tucked away inside a little alley off Rue Saint-Amable. Once you enter through the doorway, you’ll walk into a partially covered, partially open-air courtyard.

There are many vendors here selling local, handmade wares that are much more lovely than anything you’d find in the souvenir shops. You’ll find handmade jewelry, art, prints, wood carvings, and all sorts of locally produced gems.

Château Ramezay

Château Ramezay is a historic site and museum in Montreal featuring over 500 years of history in its exhibits and gardens. This home was originally built in 1705 as the home of the governor, Claude de Ramezay. Later, it was the first building to be declared as a historical monument in Quebec, and it was designated as a National Historic Site of Canada in 1949.

Its permanent collection has over 30,000 objects, and there are also many temporary exhibitions and multimedia displays. There’s also a glorious garden on the property where you can go for a stroll. It’s divided into three sections: an orchard, a kitchen garden, and a pleasure garden. There are plant species that are very close or similar to the ones grown back when Ramezay lived at the property.

Coffee at Cafe Olimpico

When you’re in Old Montreal and Old Port, pop by Cafe Olimpico for a cup of coffee. Cafe Olimpico was founded in 1970 and it remains one of Montreal’s favorite coffee shops. You can get a variety of coffee and espresso beverages. It’s definitely one of the best cups of coffee that I’ve had in Montreal.

When I was walking around the artist alley in Old Montreal, one of the shop owners asked if I was from Montreal. When I replied that I wasn’t, she said that she was surprised to see someone from out of town drinking a coffee from Cafe Olimpico. She said that most tourists go for the bigger chains and they don’t realize that Cafe Olimpico has the best coffee. So, there you have it. When one of the locals can vouch for it, you know that their coffee must be one of the best.

The Old Port of Montreal is a historic 2km stretch along the St. Lawrence River. Old Port dates back to the year 1611 when it was used as a trading post for fur traders. Old Port is right next to Old Montreal, making it easy to combine a visit to both areas. You’ll likely walk from Old Montreal right into the Old Port area without even realizing it.

There are lots of activities and attractions in Old Port, such as the Montreal Clock Tower, La Grande Roue de Montréal (a gigantic ferris wheel), the Montreal Science Centre, zip lines, and paddle boat rentals. There are paved paths for cycling, roller blading, and walking that lead to the Lachine Canal. There’s no shortage of things to do in Old Port to add to your Montreal 3 day itinerary.

I also loved walking along Rue de la Commune to look at the old buildings and architecture that lines the waterfront. There are a few other places of interest in Old Port, such as the Pointe-à-Callière (Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History) and the Scandinave Spa Vieux Montreal . You can also book a craft beer tour in Old Port where you’ll be able to sample nine different craft beers along with some snacks.

Lunch at Le Panthere Verte

La Panthere Verte, or The Green Panther, is an all vegan establishment in Montreal that’s perfect for lunch. They’ve got some of the best falafels in town. La Panthere Verte serves up delicious sandwiches, hummus, bowls, and sweet potato poutine. I also highly recommend that you pair your meal with one of their refreshing fruit smoothies.

La Panthere Verte takes pride in serving meals made with fresh and organic ingredients. They use locally grown food whenever possible. Plus, they emphasize bringing your own container when possible, and they only use compostable takeout containers. It’s great to support a plant-based restaurant that also cares about the environment, too.

While La Panthere Verte has six locations across Montreal, there’s one not too far from Old Port that works perfectly with this Montreal 3 day itinerary. You’ll find it in the Latin Quarter of Montreal at 1735 Rue Saint-Denis. They also offer delivery with Uber Eats.

Gay Village

The two of us visited Montreal’s Gay Village on our last visit, and we suggest going for a walk through this lively and colorful Montreal neighborhood. A few years ago, we walked around an area that was closed down to traffic where we admired lots of outdoor public art. The Gay Village neighborhood is a brilliant place to include on a Montreal 3 day itinerary.

One of the main art installations there was  Les Boules Roses  – pink balls strung across the entire length of the road. It was so cool to see all of the pink balls overhead extending for as far as we could see. There’s always lots of street art on the buildings and public art displays. In addition, there are shops, restaurants, cafes, and more.

Rent a Bike and Go Cycling

Riding bikes around the city was one of our favorite things to do in Montreal during this Montreal 3 day itinerary. There are so many bike paths in Montreal, so there are numerous places to go cycling. We stuck to more of the scenic areas and parks for a pleasure ride between Old Port and Parc Jean-Drapeau.

You have a few options for riding bikes in Montreal. First, if you are looking for a guided tour experience with a local, I recommend booking this Montreal Bike Tour . This tour offers a few different options, such as riding around downtown and Old Montreal, venturing to vibrant neighborhoods like Mile End and Le Plateau, or combining your bike ride with lunch and a trip to the Nordic spa.

How to Rent Bikes in Montreal

For those looking to take shorter bike rides from place to place, there are Bixi Bikes all over Montreal. These are meant more for short distance bike rides from one spot to the next. You can download their app to see where there are bikes available at each station. You can buy day passes with Bixi Bikes. Use the bike for 30 minutes or less (or there will be additional charges). This program is designed more for city dwellers who need to get around from one place to the next rather than visitors looking to explore for a few hours by bike.

The third option is the one that we decided to do, which was rent bikes from a shop. Ça Roule Montréal , or Montreal On Wheels, offers half day or full day bike rentals. We rented our bikes for four hours, which gave us the freedom to ride wherever we liked. This is a slightly more expensive option than using Bixi Bikes. However, if we rented the Bixi Bikes and didn’t return them for many hours, it would be far more expensive. We also found that the bike rentals from Ca Roule Montreal were more comfortable and better quality than the Bixi Bikes.

The employees at the bike shop gave us a map and explained a few routes that we could take. We decided to ride from Old Port along the waterfront to Habitat 67 and Parc Jean-Drapeau. Justin and I wanted to ride our bikes around the neighboring islands to check out the Biosphere and Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, an F1 race track where you can go cycling.

Habitat 67 is a unique housing complex in an architectural style that I haven’t seen anywhere else. Check it out on a bike ride between Old Port and Parc Jean-Drapeau. Designed by Israel-Canadian architect, Moshe Safdie, Habitat 67 was built as a pavilion for Expo 67. While it was conceived as a way to revolutionize housing around the world, it never quite stuck. There weren’t any others designed that used this one as a model.

In 2009, Habitat 67 was granted heritage status by the Quebec government. Today, Habitat 67 in Montreal is a popular residence and a community in itself. Many of the cubes that were singular apartments are connected together for sprawling residences with multiple terraces.

The views of the river and the city skyline are beautiful. It’s one of the most sought after properties in the city to call home. It’s also one of the most unique Montreal attractions and a must visit for architecture lovers on this Montreal 3 day itinerary.

The Biosphere

The Montreal Biosphere was built for Expo 67 to house the United States pavilion. Today, it’s a museum devoted to the environment. There are interactive exhibits and activities relating to climate change, sustainability, biodiversity, water, and much more. The goal is to raise awareness about these important issues and encourage visitors to take action in their daily lives.

The Biosphere was closed when we visited, but we rode our bikes to Parc Jean-Drapeau to admire this unique and photogenic structure. There’s also a Metro stop at Parc Jean-Drapeau, so it’s really easy to access by public transportation if you want to visit without riding a bike there.

Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve

Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve is a Formula 1 race track that hosts the Grand Prix du Canada (since 1978). It’s 4,361 meters long and wraps around Notre Dame Island, a man-made island built up for Expo 67 (and now part of Parc Jean-Drapeau). When the F1 races aren’t happening, this race track is repurposed as a multi-use track for everyone to enjoy.

You can ride your bike around the F1 circuit track. It’s also possible to go rollerblading, go for a jog, and even drive your car around the F1 track. There’s a separate lane for pedestrians and cyclists, and there’s another lane for cars. Whether navigating the track by bike or car, it’s a pretty exhilarating experience to glide around an actual F1 circuit track (even if you’re traveling way slower than the professionals!).

We returned our bikes after riding around Old Port and Parc Jean-Drapeau for a few hours. If you find yourself with some spare time before dinner, it’s not too far to walk from Old Port to Montreal’s Chinatown neighborhood. Chinatown is essentially one large city block in Montreal, bordered by Rue Saint-Dominique, René-Lévesque Boulevard, Rue Viger, and Rue Jeanne-Mance.

There are four paifang  gates at each of the four entrances to Chinatown, which are intricately decorated archways to demonstrate that you’re entering Chinatown. In fact, Montreal has the most paifang gates out of any city in North America. Go for a stroll around Chinatown to visit shops, restaurants, and even check out some street art and murals.

Dinner at LOV

For dinner, LOV is our first restaurant choice in Montreal for fresh and flavorful meals. Their restaurants are super popular so you’ll want to make a reservation in advance. They’re 100% vegan, and the food leans towards a fine dining experience (but the restaurant is casual enough that you don’t need to get dressed up).

To drink, I ordered the Peach Bum cocktail, which has a little fuzzy peach candy sticking out of it. For food, it was a really tough decision. We decided to split the dumplings (mushroom and vegetable with an almond butter kimchi sauce). For our main courses, Justin and I ordered the LOV tacos (breaded tofu, avocado sauce, chili and red onion pickling) and the Mac n’ cheese LOV.

While we ate delicious food throughout our entire stay in Montreal, our meal at LOV was our favorite of all. The food is skillfully prepared, looks beautiful on the plate, and tastes super yummy.

Day 2: Mont Royal and Mile End

On day two of this Montreal 3 day itinerary, we’ll explore Mont Royal and the Mile End/Le Plateau neighborhoods. After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we’ll start the day off by climbing to the top of Mont Royal. It isn’t a super far walk from the hotel, but you can also choose to take the Hop On Hop Off Bus to learn a few facts about the city on your way.

Climb Mont Royal

Mont Royal (or Mount Royal) is Montreal’s small mountain or volcanic-related hill, and it’s where Montreal gets its name. Mont Royal is right in the middle of Montreal, not far from the downtown core. At the top of Mont Royal, you’ll be able to savor incredible panoramic scenery of the city. A visit to Mont Royal is an absolute must for your Montreal 3 day itinerary.

There are winding paved paths so you can ride your bike up to the top (these are also accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, although it can get a little steep). Climbing the staircases is the quickest way to reach the top. It’s a little bit of a trek to get to the top, and it might leave you a little winded.

If you’re in a reasonable amount of shape, it isn’t a problem to hike to the top. We managed to see some locals jogging up and down the stairs, as well as a woman dressed in heels and business attire climb to the top (while chatting on the phone, I might add) without breaking a sweat.

The views from the top are absolutely worth the climb. I know that the scenery here must look amazing in all four seasons. I’ve also heard that this is a fantastic place to watch the sunset.

Walk the Trails and Visit Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors)

Mont Royal Park is so much more than that one viewpoint. It’s a beautiful park designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, the same man who designed Central Park in NYC. It’s a magnificent green space, one of the largest in Montreal, with a small lake and walking trails. When you’re looking for the best things to do in Montreal in 3 days, take the time to appreciate Mont Royal Park.

Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors) is a beautiful, man-made lake where visitors can go for a stroll to admire the views. There’s vast open green spaces around the lake that are perfect for a picnic lunch. You can rent rowboats there in the summer and go ice skating there in the winter, making it the ideal all seasons destination. There are also many interesting sculptures to view on your walk between the summit of Mont Royal and Beaver Lake.

Coffee Break at Dispatch Coffee

Dispatch Coffee is one of the top coffee shops in Montreal. I suggest stopping for a coffee after you visit Mont Royal and before you explore Mile End and Le Plateau Mont Royal neighborhoods. It’s a charming little cafe with a funky mural on the side of the building.

They source, roast, and distribute their own coffee, keeping the prices affordable. At the same time, they are responsible in purchasing beans at a fair price directly from the farmers. Dispatch Coffee has a great selection of plant-based milks, including my favorite, oat milk. I ordered an iced Americano with oat milk and it was super refreshing.

Search for Street Art in Mile End

Many areas of Montreal are virtually open air art museums that you can visit for free, any time of the day or night. Mile End likely has the most murals as the art festival, MURAL, happens annually each June on  Saint-Laurent Boulevard. On this Montreal 3 day itinerary, you can’t help but stop to admire the street art because it’s virtually everywhere you look.

Don’t limit yourself to exploring only Saint-Laurent Boulevard. Some of the best works of art are around the corner, whether they’re painted on buildings down side streets, down narrow alleyways, or the backs of buildings facing parking lots. Sometimes we walked down the street only to realize that there were incredible works of street art behind us that we didn’t even notice. It won’t take long for you to stumble into one amazing piece after another.

If you love public art, street art, and murals, you should book this Montreal street art tour . You’ll walk around with a local guide to learn more about the artists and discover the most famous murals in the city.

Even though we saw so much street art throughout our stay, there’s always more to discover. I’m not sure you’ll be able to see all of the Montreal street art in one visit, but you’ll certainly see a lot of it when you walk around Mile End. In addition to soaking up those amazing street art views, I also adore the houses and buildings in this neighborhood, too.

Lunch at Mimi & Jones

Mimi & Jones is a vegan diner featuring delicious comfort food. You can choose from a burger, a cheeseburger, tofu nuggets, raviolis, Caesar salad, or their famous milkshakes. We decided to order some burgers, nuggets, and a chocolate milkshake.

Everything was super yummy! The tofu nuggets were heavenly little bites, especially when you dip them in the maple Dijon dipping sauce. They operate mostly for takeaway during the pandemic, but we dined on a small bench just outside of the restaurant.

Shop at the Boutiques of Mile End and Le Plateau Mont Royal

When you wander around Mile End and Le Plateau Mont Royal, you can pair street art hunting with boutique shopping. There are loads of great stores with unique, one of a kind items. We loved browsing the antique shops and poking our heads into indie record stores. There’s a shop for every taste and style, whether you’re looking for clothes, gifts, or something for your home.

Relax at Square Saint-Louis

Square Saint-Louis is an urban park and square in the Plateau Mont Royal neighborhood. There’s a Victorian fountain in the middle of the park, and the park is surrounded by rows of brightly painted Victorian homes. Throughout this Montreal 3 day itinerary, I’ve tried to build in some moments of relaxation. Square Saint-Louis is a great place to unwind with a cup of coffee, people watch, rest your legs, and collect your thoughts.

It’s one of the most beautiful parks in Montreal, and a great place to rest your legs after all of the walking you’ve been doing all day. Bring your camera as you’ll want to take some photos of the colorful graystone row houses.

Dinner and Drinks at Bowhead Pub

The Bowhead Pub is Montreal’s first vegan pub, and we absolutely adore it! They have a delightful patio just outside of the restaurant where we enjoyed a couple pints of beer along with some delicious appetizers. They have a full menu, but we were really feeling the sharable items that night. Justin and I ordered the Chkn Wings and the Cheese Sticks (vegan feta in a Guinness batter). They also have burgers, comfort main dishes, and desserts.

Day 3: Olympic Park and Museums

I’ve left the third day of your 3 days in Montreal devoted to some of the best museums and attractions in Montreal. You’ll start off your morning by visiting MAC, the contemporary art museum in Montreal. After lunch, you’ll travel a little outside of downtown Montreal to Olympic Park. I suggest taking the Metro there as there’s a subway stop right at Olympic Park.

If you’re only spending 2 days in Montreal, I’d suggest simply doing the first two days of this Montreal itinerary. However, if you’re able to create a Montreal 3 day itinerary, this plan is perfect. If you only have a weekend in Montreal, you can also mix and match your favorite aspects of this travel guide.

Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal

Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal , also known as MAC, is the modern art museum in Montreal. Their collection includes over 7000 works by more than 1500 artists. They primarily focus on artists from Quebec and across Canada. You’ll find everything from paintings to digital and sound works, installations, sculptures, and more. It’s easy to spend at least a couple of hours wandering around MAC, enjoying the atmosphere and all of the thought-provoking works of art.

Lunch at Lola Rosa

Lola Rosa is a delightful vegan restaurant in Montreal with three locations. There’s one right across the road from the Montreal Contemporary Art Museum, so it’s easy to pop over for a quick bite. They have lots of comforting, hearty dishes that will please vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Justin and I both couldn’t resist ordering their Cajun Burger (it’s funny when we both decide to order the exact same thing on the menu!). I got mine with a vegan poutine because…when in Montreal, right? They’ve also got a great selection of local beers, as well as pitchers of sangria and cocktails.

Montreal Botanical Garden

To reach Olympic Park , you’ll need to take an Uber or a Metro ride as it’s a little farther outside of town. The Montreal Botanical Gardens is a wonderful and peaceful place to visit, whether you’re roaming the gardens by day or visiting a special exhibit by night. I recommend adding the Botanical Gardens to your Montreal 3 day itinerary, whether you are admiring the gardens by day or attending the lantern festival in the fall.

It’s 75 hectares of gardens and greenhouses with a remarkable selection of plants and themed gardens. There are 10 greenhouses and numerous gardens, like the Chinese Garden, the First Nations Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden, the Toxic Plants Garden, and more. Depending on the time of year that you visit, different plants and flowers will be in bloom, so your experience can vary from one time to the next.

Montreal’s Lantern Festival at the Botanical Gardens

If you’re visiting Montreal in the fall, I highly recommend that you check out the Gardens of Light Festival ( Jardins de Lumière ). It’s an annual tradition at the Montreal Botanical Gardens. Hundreds of lanterns flood the Chinese and Japanese Gardens with light, illuminating the landscape with bursts of bright colors. The lights transport you to another place for the evening. I felt as though I was in China rather than Montreal.

Though Chinese lanterns typically celebrate Chinese New Year, they’re on display here for the fall harvest, or Moon Festival. The lanterns are handmade in Shanghai, and it takes a full year of preparations to organize and display the lights. Every small detail contributes to the magical atmosphere of the festival.

Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium

If you’re a fan of outer space, science, or planetariums, you’ve got to pay a visit to the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium at Montreal’s Olympic Park. It’s a must for any Montreal itinerary if you love museums and attractions. There are a number of French and English language shows, although there are fewer English ones. It’s best to plan accordingly ahead of time so you don’t miss out. They have their programming schedule posted online (as well as some virtual programming at the moment, until the planetarium reopens).

Coffee Break at Caffe in Gamba

Want a little pick-me-up before dinner? Venture over to Caffe in Gamba for a delicious cup of coffee or espresso beverage. It’s back in the Mile End neighborhood where you’re invited to do more exploring before dinner. I ordered a simple black coffee here and it hit the spot. I’m all about finding great coffee shops on the go, so be sure to add Caffe in Gamba to your list of Montreal cafes.

Dinner at Aux Vivres

Aux Vivres continues to be one of our favorite restaurants in Montreal, ever since we first traveled to the city together back in 2013. Back then, we actually ate dinner at Aux Vivres and went there for brunch one morning, too! You know the restaurant is good if you choose to dine there twice.

It’s a 100% vegan restaurant and one of the original vegan restaurants in Montreal. They have a huge menu with lots of favorites, from sandwiches and wraps to bowls and burgers. We also adored the blueberry pancakes that they serve for weekend brunch.

Pints at Le Sainte-Elizabeth’s Patio Garden

End your trip to Montreal with a pint or two at Le Sainte-Elizabeth pub. They have a gorgeous back patio that’s the closest thing I could find to a beer garden in Montreal. You’re surrounded by tall, brick walls covered in vines and greenery. There are tall trees in the middle of the patio garden. Plus, there are tons of heat lamps, meaning that this patio is open all year long.

More Than 3 Days in Montreal?

If you find yourself with more time, there are still many more things to do in Montreal. For instance, you could stay within the city and check out some more museums . You can book a relaxing Nordic spa experience just a few minutes away from downtown Montreal. Or if you’re looking for what to do in Montreal and you’re thinking about taking a day or two away from the city, I suggest a trip to nearby Mont Tremblant.

Visiting Mont Tremblant From Montreal

If you have an extra couple of days, I recommend making the short drive from Montreal to Mont Tremblant. Tremblant resort is a fantastic experience any time of the year, whether you’re visiting Tremblant in the summer or partaking in outdoor activities in the winter . In the summer, Mont Tremblant hosts their sensational International Blues Festival , and there are also lots of great vegan restaurants at Tremblant , too.

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Where to Stay in Montreal

Justin and I spent three nights at the Hotel Bonaventure Montreal . It was our second time staying here. We enjoyed our first stay so much that we didn’t hesitate to make it our temporary home again in Montreal. It’s right downtown in the perfect location, right in the middle of all the action. We’re able to walk almost everywhere from this hotel.

The hotel has all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure. There’s complimentary Wi-Fi and we found the speeds were lightning fast. We stayed in one of their newly renovated rooms, which was super comfortable and spacious. There’s a rooftop pool, a terrace garden with ducks, a fitness center, and restaurants on site.

Everything you could possibly want or need is right here at the Hotel Bonaventure. Click here to book your stay  at the Hotel Bonaventure Montreal. There are also many more  reviews of Hotel Bonaventure Montreal  online, and I encourage you to check them out when you’re reviewing hotels in Montreal for your holiday.

Montreal Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about planning a trip to Montreal? You might have a few questions about Montreal that I haven’t answered already. Here’s some basic info about Montreal that you should know before you go.

Of course, yes! I have visited Montreal on multiple occasions. Even though it’s not too far away (about 5 hours by car), I think Montreal is a great city to visit even if you are coming from abroad. There are many things to see and do, and it’s such a vibrant and awesome city.

Yes! Most people in Montreal speak both French and English. While you may be initially greeted in French, don’t worry if you cannot speak French. I’m sure many people would appreciate if you tried. But, if you start speaking in English, pretty much everyone will flip over to English and communicate that way.

Montreal is a very walkable city. You can walk most places, especially if you stay in a centrally located downtown hotel. However, there’s also the fabulous and easy to navigate Montreal Metro if you’d rather travel by the subway or public transportation.

3 days is the perfect amount of time to visit Montreal. You’ll be able to see many attractions and places of interest. Of course, you can visit for 2 days or 4 days (or even longer), but you should be able to tackle most of the best things to do in Montreal in 3 days.

Please use Canadian currency in Montreal. We do not use US dollars here. I am sure many places will accept US dollars, but they won’t do any currency exchange for you. As the US dollar is valued much higher than the Canadian dollar, it makes more sense to convert your money into Canadian dollars.

Montreal is a great city to visit all year long. However, it does get quite cold and snowy in the winter, so you’ll need to dress appropriately. I love the spring and the fall the most in Montreal. September is a great time of year (after Labour Day weekend) because there are fewer crowds and the weather is still warm. The prices for hotels are more affordable during the shoulder seasons (March to May and September to November).

Map of Montreal

Navigate your way around the city with this handy map. See everything that I mentioned for this Montreal 3 day itinerary visually represented on a map.

Do you want to save this map for future reference? If you click the star beside the map title, it will be saved to your Google Maps account. Then, you can access it while hiking from your own Google Maps app (it will be listed under “your places” and then “maps”).

More Things to Do in Quebec

For more Quebec travel guides and itineraries, please check out these popular travel blog posts:

• 20 Best Things to Do in Laval
• Mont Tremblant in Summer
• Mont Tremblant in Winter
• Montreal 3 Day Itinerary
• Terrebonne and Ile-des-Moulins, Quebec
• Quebec City 3 Day Itinerary
• Quebec City in Winter
• Quebec Winter Carnival
• Snow Tubing in Quebec at the Ultimate Winter Playground
• Quebec City Christmas Market
• Ice Hotel Quebec: A Survival Guide to Staying Overnight
• Le Monastere des Augustines: Quebec Monastery Turned Wellness Centre
• 7 Day Itinerary for a Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip
• Whale Watching in Tadoussac
• 3 Days In Lanaudière Mauricie Itinerary

Is there anything else that you’d add to your Montreal itinerary?

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Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

A Perfect Weekend in Montreal Is All About Historic Architecture and Modern Cuisine

A weekend is all you need to fall in love with this city’s historic neighborhoods, thriving art venues, and seriously good food..

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Montreal mixes North American modernity and old-school European charm with a one-of-a-kind French vibe.

Photo by Firefighter Montreal/Shutterstock

A trip to Montreal can be a little disorienting at first: Am I in Europe? Canada? Should I speak in French or English—or both? The short answer: Yes. Montreal feels like a little bit of everything, especially as you explore its distinctive neighborhoods.

A visit to Canada’s second-largest city is about living in the urban space, meeting the locals, and sharing a moment. Visit Old Montreal, where you can admire the city’s historic side with architecture dating back to its 1642 founding. Or spend some time in the bohemian Plateau Mont-Royal, which attracts young artists and students in part thanks to nearby McGill University .

And Montreal is also about eating. With one of the highest number of restaurants per capita in North America, the city has in recent decades moved away from classic French and Italian fare to let its creative spirits soar. Most chefs are happy to champion local farmers and products on their menus, allowing for a taste of the entire province, land to sea. (Though you’d be remiss if you didn’t try the smoked meats.) Independent bakeries, cafés, specialized food boutiques, and restaurants thrive in every neighborhood—you’ll want to pack your stretchy pants.

Where to stay in Montreal

Hotel Le Germain’s colorful facade stands out among the skyscrapers that surround it.

Courtesy of Hotel Le Germain

Hôtel Le Germain

Book now: Hôtel Le Germain

Inspired by the 1960s midcentury-modern aesthetic, Hôtel Le Germain’s 2019 renovations transformed this downtown property into an elegant space with outstanding service. Visitors are welcomed to the 100-room hotel by the rainbow-hued facade created by artist Michelle Hoogveld as part of the Mural festival, a yearly summer event that champions urban art. The rooms give prime views of Mount Royal or the skyscrapers along the street and, depending on the room, accents range from round beds to hanging bubble chairs.

Fairmont Le Queen Elizabeth

Old World charm and modern amenities reign at this grand downtown hotel that’s been welcoming royalty and celebrities since 1958. Suite 1742 is where John Lennon and Yoko Ono staged a famous weeklong bed-in. The hotel underwent a renovation in 2017; the result is a new Fairmont Or (Gold) hotel-within-a-hotel, with a dedicated 21st-floor lounge for guests and separate concierge services, and rooms (there are 950) with modernist details like geometric-patterned floors and bold, retro colors. The hotel also has a Cirque Eloize cabaret show that’s a wild affair.

Hôtel Gault

On a quiet, cobblestone street in Old Montreal, this historic 19th-century building is adorned with intricate molding and cast-iron columns in stark contrast to the 30 minimalist-style lofts and suites it houses, with memorable views of the city.

With only 10 rooms and suites, É pik preserves architectural details that date back to the 1700s, such as wooden beams and stone walls, offset by slick modern design elements like LED lights and rain showers. The Old Montreal hotel is close to sites like the Notre-Dame Basilica, eclectic shops, and plenty of restaurants, so you won’t have to travel far to experience the city’s vibrant offerings.

Where to eat and drink in Montreal

Larrys is one of many restaurants vying for your brunch reservation.

Photo by Rachel Cheng

Unsurprisingly, Montreal offers enough food and drink options from dawn to dusk to keep you busy for weeks.

Where to go for brunch

Montrealers love brunch, and the city has many outstanding options. Old Montreal’s Olive et Gourmando is an absolute must for its flaky pastries and “Egg on your face” breakfast sandwich. For a more British take, Larrys is the place to go. Don’t skip the scones! Other excellent brunch choices include modern Lebanese cuisine at Shay , deli classics (and the best pancakes) at Arthurs , and French brasserie dishes at Leméac . For a classic Montreal-style brunch, make your way to Beautys . The deli has been serving Montreal bagels and lox platters since 1942.

Where to go for lunch

For lunch, you’ll have to indulge in some of Montreal’s most iconic foods: piping hot bagels (sweeter, crunchier, and dare I say, better than NYC bagels), poutine, or a mile-high smoked meat sandwich. These Montreal specialties are the best of their kind.

For a sweet snack, try Hof Kelsten ’s chocolate babka or Pâtisserie Rhubarbe ’s lemon tart.

Where to go for dinner

If you’re in town for a few days, head to Candide , a restaurant inside the presbytery of a converted church, for regional cuisine. You’re almost guaranteed to try some unique ingredients from Quebec’s wild terroir. Its wine list is one of the best in town. If the weather is nice, try to snag a table on the lovely terrace located on a quiet alley. Otherwise, the bar with a view of the kitchen action is the best seat.

For for fine French cuisine, La Chronique and its light-filled dining room is a top place to spend an evening. Its foie gras specialties and service are always irreproachable.

Vin Mon Lapin is a neighborhood restaurant in Little Italy with an attractive dining room, a fun and knowledgeable staff, an outstanding collection of bottles (some of which you won’t find anywhere else), and the best inventive and seasonal food served in small dishes to share. It’s a must.

Things to do in Montreal

Old Montreal is a small piece of Europe on this side of the Atlantic.

Photo by ProDesign studio

Explore Old Montreal

With its cobblestone pathways and centuries-old buildings, Old Montreal arguably has some of the most European streets this side of the Eiffel Tower. Locals and tourists alike wander its charming narrow streets to enjoy some of the city’s major attractions. Charismatic Saint-Paul Street, Montreal’s former main artery, is flanked by historic 19th-century buildings now housing art galleries, kitschy tourist stores, and glam restaurants.

One of Old Montreal’s main landmarks is the Notre-Dame Basilica, built in the Gothic revival style between 1824 and 1829 (the bell towers were finished in 1843). Get tickets for Aura , an immersive sound-and-light show that emphasizes the intricately carved wood details and stained-glass windows of the basilica. For other memorable experiences, head to PHI Centre , a multidisciplinary art gallery featuring immersive exhibits using virtual reality.

You can enjoy scenic views of Old Montreal and the river from several spots, including the Grande Roue de Montréal Ferris wheel, the iconic Clock Tower that hovers over Old Montreal’s beach, or the spectacular 300-year-old Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel.

For a relaxing afternoon, book a massage at Bota Bota , an award-winning floating thermal spa housed inside a repurposed ferryboat with views of the famous Habitat 67.

Read more about Bota Bota .

Go downtown

From Old Montreal, it’s a short walk through Chinatown to Quartier des Spectacles, an area of downtown Montreal that is the city’s “cultural heart.” Some of Montreal’s most prominent festivals take place here, especially during the summer, when you might catch a Montreal Jazz Festival concert, a Just for Laughs show, or one of many free outdoor activities.

Head west on Saint-Catherine Street toward McGill Avenue and beyond for some world-class shopping above and below ground in Montreal’s underground city. The pedestrian network that connects shopping malls, metro stations, and dozens of downtown buildings runs for 20 miles under the city center and is a good way to enjoy a day out away from Mother Nature’s tantrums.

Check out Mile-End

The Mile-End has the well-earned reputation of being Montreal’s hippest neighborhood; its vibrant art and music scene is the home of many independent music shops, boutiques, and bookstores. Mimic the locals by perusing the piles of books at Drawn & Quarterly then heading to Café Olimpico for a latte and people-watching on its terrace.

Hike or drive up the Mount Royal Park to Beaver Lake for a panoramic view of the city. If you happen to be in the area on a Sunday, head to the George-Étienne Cartier Monument and les tam-tams du Mont Royal , where you can find a spontaneous gathering of drummers and percussionists—the epitome of Montreal’s quirkiness.

The Jean-Talon Market is a must-visit while in Montreal.

Tourisme Montréal

Stop by Little Italy

From Mile-End it’s a short walk to Little Italy. Stop by an Italian café before heading to Jean-Talon Market , one of North America’s largest open-air farmers’ markets and a good place to eat lunch and stock up on edible souvenirs (like Quebec maple syrup).

Read more about Jean-Talon Market.

Visit Space for Life

Space for Life is Canada’s largest science museum complex and combines several experiences under one roof—or rather, in the same vicinity. You can stare up at the stars at the cutting-edge planetarium, meet the smallest creatures at the insectarium, observe animals in the immersive ecosystems of the biodome, or stroll around the botanical gardens. Montreal’s famous Olympic Stadium, home of the 1976 Olympics, is nearby.

Bike the city

Montreal has over 430 miles of bike paths and has been named one of the most bike-friendly cities in North America. Rent a bike or grab a BIXI (short-term rental) and ride along the Lachine Canal or around the Parc Jean Drapeau for two scenic routes.

Visit Strøm Spa

East of Montreal, on the Ile de Soeurs (Nuns’ island), is a sprawling, Nordic-style day spa called Strøm Spa . On site, guests can enjoy a steam bath or a dry sauna overlooking the nearby woods or lounge on an outdoor patio by the river. However, the main attraction is the property’s multiple outdoor thermal baths and full menu of spa services like massages, facials, and manicures.

It also has a restaurant featuring healthy, Nordic-inspired dishes like a mushroom smørrebrød (open-faced sandwich) and fish and seafood soup. Thanks to all of the options, you easily can (and should!) spend half a day here.

Although the peaceful property is worth a visit at any time of the year, it’s especially appealing during the winter, when cold winds and snow make other outdoor activities less accessible or pleasant.

This article originally appeared online in 2020; it was most recently updated on October 9, 2023, to include current information.

Visitor information

When you come for a visit, you’ll find friendly agents at easily accessible points in central Montréal, all ready to assist you in making your visit the greatest and most memorable trip ever.

Official brochures

• Official Tourist Guide : This is your tourist guide to living like a local, with cool businesses, landmarks and attractions.
• Official Tourist Map : You'll find everything you need to experience the city of joie de vivre, neighbourhood by neighbourhood in this tourist map.

Bonjour Québec

Tourism information about Montréal and other Québec regions.

514 873-2015/1 877 BONJOUR (266-5687)

Email | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube  | Twitter | Website #BonjourQuebec

Montréal Tourist Information Office

Tourism information about Montréal. Tourist bus and transit fares and Passeport MTL.

174 Notre-Dame Street East

Metro Champ-de Mars

May 1 to June 15, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; June 16 to August 31, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; September 1 to October 31, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; November 1 to April 30, Thursday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ( closed from December 24 to January 3 ).

Mobile Tourist Welcome Office

The Mobile Tourism Services Team scours the central districts on foot or on an electric scooter. May 1 to September 30: Daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Kahnawà:ke Tourism Welcome Center

1 River Road, Kahnawà:ke

450-635-2929 

Courriel | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Site web  

Montréal Professional Tourist Guides Association

The Montréal Professional Tourist Guide Association (APGT) is an NPO representing more than 150 tourist guides, graduates of the AEC Tourist Guide program of the Institut de tourisme et d’hôtellerie du Québec (ITHQ) and holders of a license to the City of Montréal.

Its main mission is to represent its members with the various stakeholders in the Montréal, Québec and international tourism community. The APGT also offers professional development and networking activities to its members in addition to supervising them using a code of ethics and liability insurance coverage. www.apgt.ca

Perfect 7 Days In Montreal And Quebec City Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux

Planning a trip to Montreal, Canada? If you’re thinking of staying in Montreal for one week , you’re going to love our recommended 7 days itinerary. Let’s see how you can visit Montreal in 7 days and more importantly, make the most of it.

Day 1 – Old Montreal

To start off your trip to Montreal, it’s off to Old Montreal, the city’s historic district. One of the best ways to explore the district and learn all about the city’s beginnings is to take a walking tour of the Old Town. Various walking tours are offered , all with the benefit of a knowledgeable guide to give you the most educational and unique experience of the area. 

After a walk around the Old Town, it’s time for lunch nearby at Taverne Gaspar . Located on rue de la Commune inside a 19th Century warehouse, Taverne Gaspar offers French-inspired pub food with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. If you’re desperate to try out the famous Quebecois dish, poutine, during your stay in Montreal, you’ll want to head over to Montreal Poutine on rue Saint-Paul.

Also located in Old Montreal, Montreal Poutine specializes in the famous dish, complete with cheese curds and gravy, as well as providing many variations to suit everyone. Alongside poutine, this restaurant also offers a range of classic burgers and hot dogs.

For your afternoon activity, it’s time to head to the Pointe-à-Callière Museum of Archaeology and History to learn even more about Montreal’s origins and foundations. Not only a fantastic resource for learning about Montreal’s history but the museum is also built on the very spot where the city was founded, making it a very significant historical site.

Alternatively, if the morning tour of Old Montreal was enough for you, the Bota Bota spa is located nearby at the Old Port, offering a variety of packages alongside the gorgeous views of the district. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups, the spa boasts a range of facilities, including saunas, steam rooms, hot and cold pools, relaxation rooms, and a variety of soothing treatments. 

For dinner in Old Montreal, head over to Saint-Paul Street, where you’ll find Modavie . Modavie is a jazz bar and bistro specializing in French and European cuisine and, while you’re there, you’re likely to experience the sounds of a local Montreal band. The restaurant’s specialty is lamb, though imaginative vegetarian options are available.

For an evening out in Old Montreal, head to the Coldroom on rue Saint Vincent to experience a prohibition-style speakeasy, perfectly fit for this historic district. Hidden behind a black door, the Coldroom can be easily missed by those not looking for it (follow the duck!).

As a reward for your detective skills, the Coldroom offers excellent gourmet cocktails and an atmosphere to make your legal drinks feel that little bit prohibited. 

Day 2 – City Centre and Plateau Mont-Royal

To start off your second day in Montreal, we’re heading off to Mount Royal , the famous mountain overlooking Downtown Montreal. If traveling to Montreal during the winter, ice skating on Beaver Lake should be an activity at the top of your list. Located at the top of the mountain, Beaver Lake is Mount Royal’s outdoor refrigerated skating rink, with free access and skate rental available from $10 per 2 hours.

If visiting Mount Royal with children, activities such as snow tubing down the hill overlooking Beaver Lake, and is suitable for children aged 4 and up. Daily passes and equipment for this activity are available at the equipment rental counter.

If your trip to Mount Royal is during the summer, Beaver Lake is still a top attraction. Not only is the surrounding park the perfect spot for a picnic or morning read, but rowboats can also be rented for use on the lake at $12 per half hour. For anyone who would rather not get in the water, remote-controlled sailboats are also available for use on Beaver Lake for $10 per half hour, perfect for kids and adults alike. 

For lunch on the mountain, you have the option of several restaurants and cafes offering soups, sandwiches, and snacks: Mont-Royal Chalet, the Pavillion du Lac-aux-Castors (adjacent to Beaver Lake), and Maison Smith. Alternatively, head into Plateau Mont-Royal for lunch or brunch at Restaurant L’Avenue .

Offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options over a creatively-designed backdrop, Restaurant L’Avenue is the perfect example of dining in the artsy Plateau neighborhood. If poutine is still on your mind, however, take a seat nearby at La Banquise or PoutineVille , both of which are among the best restaurants to try the classic dish.

After lunch, head downtown to Sherbrooke Street to visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts , the largest art museum in Canada by exhibition space. Alongside collections featuring Picasso, Rembrandt, and Goyam the museum often showcases special exhibitions.

For dinner in Downtown Montreal, head over to Robert-Bourassa Boulevard and take a seat at Restaurant Zibo . Offering Californian-inspired Canadian cuisine, Zibo caters to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets with its extensive menu. Zibo also boasts an impressive beer, wine, and cocktail menu to complement your meal.

To round off your second day in Montreal, take a walk down to 3 Brasseurs microbrewery on Saint-Catherine Street. Alongside beer brewed in-house, 3 Brasseurs offers wine and cocktails, as well as a food menu that pairs beers with certain dishes and their flavors. If visiting in the summer, this location in Downtown Montreal also boasts outdoor seating so that you can enjoy a finely-crafted beer in the summer air.

Day 3 – Mont Tremblant

For the third day of your trip to Montreal, take a trip to Mont Tremblant, one of Canada’s most famous ski resorts located in the Laurentian Mountains. There are various options for getting to Tremblant from Montreal , with the most convenient option likely being to drive. And no worries if you’re not visiting during the winter, as the resort has activities available all year round.

It’s always best to leave early in the morning so that you can enjoy a full day at Tremblant. To ease yourself in after a long trip, regardless of the season, round off your morning with a short hike on the mountain. Take the gondola up to the top of the mountain, and make your way along with one of the many hiking trails that Tremblant has to offer. 

While at the mountain’s peak, stop off for lunch at le Grand Manitou , a cafeteria offering a spectacular view of the vicinity. Serving hot and cold food, this is the place to regain your energy for the main activity of the day.

After lunch, if you’re visiting in the winter, it’s finally time to try your hand at skiing. Mont Tremblant has a whole host of trails, from beginner to expert, so whether you’re a seasoned skier or it’s your first time, Tremblant’s got you covered. If you’re visiting the resort in the summer, try your hand at some rock climbing .

With no climbing experience necessary, you will be able to climb the cliff several times with the assistance of an experienced guide.

For dinner, head into the pedestrian village and take a seat at the Choux Gras Brasserie Culinaire for some French-Canadian cuisine. With vegetarian and gluten-free options, Choux Gras Brasserie Culinaire’s warm contemporary atmosphere overlooking the pedestrian village will make for a lovely evening meal. 

After dinner, head to the Casino de Mont-Tremblant , a small casino and bar featuring live music and an outdoor patio. Whether you’re looking for a drink at the bar or want to try your luck at the slot machines (or both!), this is the perfect place to finish off your day in Tremblant. And if you’d prefer to save the trip back for the next morning, there are plenty of lodging options and hotels available in the pedestrian village .

Day 4 – Quartier des Spectacles and Chinatown

For our fourth day in Montreal, we’re going to be checking out the Quartier des Spectacles (the Entertainment District) and Chinatown. For your morning activity, head into the Quarter and make your way to Saint-Catherine Street to find the Montreal Contemporary Art Museum (Musée d’Art Contemporain de Montréal), Canada’s first museum devoted entirely to contemporary art. Inside, you will find contemporary collections of over 7,000 works of art featuring Quebecois, Canadian, and international artists.

Unique exhibitions are constantly running , currently featuring the work of artists such as Arthur Jafa, Ron Moppett, and Kathleen Graham. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $4 for teenagers, and free for children under 12.

After a morning of cultural exploration, take a (very!) short walk to Eggspectation Complexe Desjardins on Saint Catherine West for some lunch or brunch. As the name suggests, Eggspectation specializes in eggs and breakfast food, but there truly is something for everyone. With imaginative variations on classic breakfast and brunch food, as well as non-breakfast food, you won’t be disappointed.

In the afternoon, head over to Chinatown, a small district within the Quartier des Spectacles, for a little exploration. One of the oldest Asian communities in North America, Montreal’s Chinatown started to emerge around the 1890s and was first recognized as a tourist attraction in the late 1960s.

The main attractions of Chinatown include its many shops and food vendors (try the bubble tea!). Make a stop at one of the many souvenir shops, or venture inside one of the Asian grocery stores for some authentic products. And be sure to make a stop at the corner of René-Lévesque and Saint-Laurent by the north gate to see a gorgeous mural produced by MU, one of the many examples of Montreal’s street art scene.

While in Chinatown, head to Ruby Rouge for some authentic Chinese cuisine. Their key dish is dim sum, which is continuously being wheeled around for customers to pick from, alongside a variation of Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine. And if you’re looking for a fun evening activity in Chinatown, look no further than CEO Karaoke, which is conveniently situated in the basement of Ruby Rouge. 

If karaoke isn’t your thing, head back into the main part of the Quartier and you’ll find the Theatre Sainte-Catherine Cafe-Bar . This unique bar is also an independent theatre, hosting musical performances, film screenings, and comedy all throughout the week. What better way to enjoy a drink within Montreal’s renowned Entertainment District than with some independent theatre?

Day 5 – The Village and Quartier Latin

With the university nearby, Montreal’s Quartier Latin is known to be a student-friendly district within the city, bustling with art, indie cinemas and theatres, and a vibrant nightlife. As such, Quartier Latin is highly focused on education and history, making this neighborhood the perfect spot for those that are beyond their university years but still love to learn. In the morning, head into the Quartier Latin and make your way to la Galerie de l’UQAM , an art museum located within the University of Quebec in Montreal.

As the gallery is primarily focused on student enrichment, many of the works on display are by students of visual arts, art history, and museology, making this gallery a highly unique and contemporary way to experience art created in the heart of Montreal.

For lunch in the Quartier Latin, head to Resto Végo , a vegetarian and vegan buffet located on Saint-Denis Street. Alongside an extensive buffet selection to suit anyone, Testo Vego also has a gourmet counter, stocked with prepared sandwiches, pizzas, and salads for those looking for something a little different from the buffet range.

Alternatively, if you’re hankering for something sweet, head over to Juliette et Chocolat , a French dessert cafe also located on Saint-Denis Street. Offering a plethora of desserts and hot chocolates, Juliette et Chocolat also has savory meals and brunches to suit everyone.

To really understand Montreal as an all-inclusive cosmopolitan city, visitors need to take a trip to the Village, which is where we’re headed for the afternoon. Located near the Quartier des Spectacles, Montreal’s Gay Village is the largest in North America, receiving consistent investment and promotion by all three levels of government as the heart of Montreal’s LGBT community.

It is often recommended to treat the Gay Village as an open-air museum, due to the large number of public art installations, including an outdoor gallery (Galerie blanc) and the mural by Cecile Gariepy. Unfortunately, the iconic large-scale installation comprising 180,000 hanging rainbow-colored balls has recently been taken down, but will soon be replaced with another fantastic installation. Keep an eye out!

For dinner, head to Grenade on Ontario Street East for some contemporary Asian food within a beautifully designed Asian-inspired interior. Grenade also features a cocktail bar, with a menu that’s jam-packed full of Asian-inspired and imported drinks. If visiting in the summer, the restaurant’s rear terrace is opened up for you to enjoy the balmy air.

To round off your evening in Montreal’s Gay Village, a visit to Cabaret Mado is essential. A testament to Montreal’s vibrant drag scene, Mado is a great spot to catch a glamorous show (and maybe even see some famous faces) while enjoying a good drink. There is always a show on, interspersed with special events, so check out the website for upcoming shows ! 

Day 6 – Quebec City

For your sixth day in Canada, it’s time for another day trip! One of the most popular day trips from Montreal is Quebec City, the capital of the province of Quebec. At around 3 hours’ drive from Montreal, it is recommended to rent a car for this trip, though a direct train is also available with similar travel time. 

Start off your visit to Quebec City with a stroll down Old Quebec (Vieux-Quebec), a World Heritage Site and the location of New France’s first permanent settlement.

Make sure that Place Royal, the city walls, and Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral are stops on your exploration of this historic city. If you have enough time, be sure to take up one of the many tours of the city and take advantage of Quebec’s highly-qualified and knowledgeable guides.

After a wander around Old Quebec, head down Petit-Champlain (and be sure to marvel at the beauty of this pedestrian street!), where you’ll enjoy a bite to eat at Le Lapin Saute . With a terrace opening up in the summer, and a fire to warm you in the winter, this is a great place to settle down for lunch regardless of when you’re visiting. 

After lunch, head to the Musée de la civilization , located between Old Quebec and the Old Port, where you can learn all about early Quebec and the First Nations people.

The museum features a whole host of natural specimens, historical artifacts, and documents of Old Quebec. Alongside permanent collections, the museum holds temporary exhibition s such as ‘Quebec City’s Firefighters: 250 Years of Courage’, which will run until March 29th, 2020. Many of the exhibitions and collections are interactive, making them all the more engaging for both adults and kids. Adult admission tickets start at $11, and children under 11 enter for free.

For dinner, take a short walk to Saint-Paul Street, where you’ll find Chez Rioux & Pettigrew . Serving French-Canadian cuisine, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, Rioux & Pettigrew aims to please with their gourmet styling and cozy industrial backdrop. 

Alternatively, for those wanting to experience a very unique experience of fine dining, be sure to make a booking at Restaurant Taniere ahead of your trip.

Rated to be the best restaurant in Quebec city, Taniere offers a contemporary gastronomy experience set in a series of underground 17th Century vaults. The food is locally sourced and expertly prepared over several courses, between 15 and 20, with options for a beverage pairing experience. Well worth the price, this is an unmissable place in Quebec for foodies.

If you’ve still got some steam come the evening, head to Le Sacrilège on Saint-Jean Street, a friendly bar featuring art exhibitions and live music. A favorite of locals, this is the bar to go to if you want to get a real taste of Quebec City’s charming nightlife. 

You can decide to stay the night in Quebec city too or drive all the way back to Montreal.

Day 7 – Rosemont

In the morning, we’re heading to Rosemont for a trip to Montreal’s Botanical Gardens (Jardin Botanique), which is a part of the Montreal Space for Life science complex. To get the most out of your experience at the Botanical Gardens, guided tours of the exhibition greenhouses are offered free with your admission ticket. Alongside an impressive collection of plant species and exhibition greenhouses, the Garden is also home to various thematic cultural gardens.

The Japanese Garden features a spectacular arrangement of bonsai trees, ranging from 20 to 100 years old, all within a specially-arranged serene environment. The Chinese Garden was created with materials shipped from Shanghai and built by 50 Chinese craftsmen. The result was a living exhibition of the Chinese art of landscape design, creating a sense of harmony using the four major elements: plants, water, stones, and architecture.

Finally, the First Nations Garden is designed to evoke the close bonds between the natives and the natural world, serving to promote the sharing of knowledge and culture between native and non-native Quebeckers.

For lunch, head to Little Italy, a small neighborhood north of Mile End that was heavily influenced by a wave of Italian immigration in the early 20th Century. Corneli is an Italian restaurant located on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, serving meat, fish, pasta, and pizza authentically cooked in their wood oven. 

While in Little Italy, head on over to the Jean-Talon Market for the afternoon. Jean-Talon is Little Italy’s famous food market and is one of the oldest public markets in Montreal, dating back to 1933. The market provides a unique produce shopping experience, even for those not looking to buy.

Nearby are various cafes, such as the Cafe Saint-Henri , which serves fantastic coffee and sweet snacks. Alternatively, Rosemont is also home to Montreal’s Olympic Village , which is a perfect visit for sport-lovers. While a perfect trip can be made out of a simple walk around the village, various tours and events are made available by the Olympic Park.

Open most of the year, the Montreal Tower Observatory is open to visitors, offering a panoramic view of the city from the world’s tallest inclined tower. Guided tours for the Tower are also available, as well as the Since 1976 exhibition that showcases the history of the park. Alongside this, the Stadium is also open, with regular guided tours and a seasonal events schedule . 

For dinner, head to rue Beaubien Est for a seat at Il Bazzali , a quaint Italian restaurant serving European and Mediterranean cuisines. If you’re lucky, you might even get to experience the famous “singing chef”. The restaurant is a BYOB but, luckily, there are plenty of wines to choose from le Marche des Saveurs du Quebec (the Quebec Flavor Market) in Jean-Talon Market.

To round off your trip in Montreal, head to La Succursale on rue Masson. La Succursale specializes in craft beers and ciders, within a friendly contemporary interior. If visiting during the summer, La Succursale also features an outdoor terrace, perfect for sipping on your drink during the warm evenings.

Final Thoughts On Montreal In One Week

We hope our guide helped you find new ideas for your week in Montreal.

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Montreal Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Montreal is Canada’s “European” city. It’s one of the five largest French-speaking cities in the world, and at one point it was even the capital of the country. The second-largest city in the country, it’s charming, historic, and unlike Canada’s other large cities.

Personally, I think it’s one of the best cities in Canada. The city’s Old Town looks like something straight out of medieval France and the French-inspired cuisine and eclectic nightlife (especially the jazz clubs) leave little to dislike. For outdoor explorers, there are a lot of incredible bike paths and nearby mountains to hike to.

I first came here when I was 18 because it was the closest place to where I lived that allowed me to drink (the legal drinking age is 18). Subsequent visits as an adult have only made me appreciate the city on a deeper level and it remains one of my favorites in North America.

It’s also noticeably cheaper than Canada’s other large cities (I’m looking at you Toronto and Vancouver ), so there’s good reason to stay awhile and soak up the unique culture.

This travel guide to Montreal can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this incredible city.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Montreal

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Montreal

1. Walk around Old Montreal

Old Montreal is easily the most attractive part of the city. Its cobblestone streets and historic greystone buildings date back to the 1700s. When people think of Montreal, this is the part of the city they picture. Some of the city’s finest museums and art galleries are here too, including the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History (admission is 25 CAD). You can also take a Ghost Tour with Get Your Guide for 21.50 CAD.

2. Visit the Place des Armes

This is one of three main squares in Old Montreal dating back to the end of the 17th century. Originally used for military events and markets, today it’s a beautiful piece of preserved history. Nearby is the Vieux Séminaire de St-Sulpice, Montreal’s oldest seminary and building (built between 1684-1687) for the Catholic Order of Sulpicians. You’ll also find the majestic Notre-Dame Basilica cathedral here, lauded for being one of the most beautiful churches in North America. Lastly, there is the Bank of Montreal’s founding building, and also the New York Life Insurance skyscraper, constructed in 1888. The plaza is a wonderful place to people-watch and take in the local pace of life.

3. Relax on Mont Royal

This beautiful park is one of the highlights of the city and a symbol of the city’s heritage (Montreal comes from ‘Mont Royal’). With 200 acres of lush vegetation, it’s a great place to stroll around or walk up the “mountain” (it’s just a large hill) for fantastic views over the city skyline. On Sundays in the summer, the park comes alive with picnickers and the “Tam-Tams” — an eclectic drum circle that draws huge numbers. The park is open all year round and attracts a broad range of sporting enthusiasts for jogging, skiing, skating, boating, biking, sledding, and more. With so many activities, it’s a great place to spend a sunny day.

4. See the Biodome

The biodome features four distinct ecosystems. You can visit the Tropical Forest, see otters and lynx in the Laurentian Maple Forest, visit the puffins on the Labrador Coast, and explore the volcanic landscape of the Sub-Antarctic Islands. There are over 200 species of animals here and some 750 different species of plants. Admission is 21.50 CAD. It’s especially fun and educational for kids.

5. Tour the Museum of Fine Arts

This enormous museum has over 43,000 works of art, with many temporary exhibits on rotation as well. There are five intersecting pavilions but the Claire and Marc Bourgie Pavilion is especially worth seeing for its collection of Quebec and Canadian art, including Inuit art. The museum is famous for its community and education collaboration to create unique art experiences as part of its art therapy initiatives. Admission is 24 CAD.

Other Things to See and Do in Montreal

1. take a free walking tour.

Whenever I visit a new destination, one of the first things I do is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Free Montreal Tours has a comprehensive two-hour tour that covers all the main highlights. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

2. See the Jardin Botanique

Montreal is home to the second-largest botanical garden in the world. Spanning 185 acres and opened in 1931, it showcases ten indoor greenhouses including a Chinese garden, a Japanese garden, a lily garden, and a rose garden. There’s also a tranquil First Nations Garden designed to represent the natural environment of Quebec’s First Nations, including plants from the Nordic Zone. Admission is 22 CAD. Combined tickets offering discounted rates are available if you also want to visit the Biodome or one of the other museums in the Espace Pour La Vie (Space for Life) natural museum complex. On Thursdays, Planetarium tickets are only 8 CAD after 5pm.

3. Wander the Jean-Talon Market

The city’s largest market hosts hundreds of stalls in the middle of Little Italy. Shops and small specialized grocers surround the square, so be on the lookout for Quebecois delicacies like pure maple syrup or ice wine. One of the oldest markets in the city, it’s a great place to have lunch or grab fresh food for later. There are often events like workshops and culinary demonstrations here too, so you never know what you might stumble upon.

4. Take a half-day bike tour

On a three-hour guided bike tour with Fitz & Follwell, you’ll visit some of Montreal’s key sites including Old Montreal, Mile-End, Mont Royal, and the Plateau. They also offer themed tours to certain neighborhoods, like the North End, where you’ll explore open-air markets and street art. Bikes and helmets are provided, and the 16-kilometer (10-mile) route has an easy-going pace, making this tour accessible for anyone who can ride a bike. Three-hour tours start at 70 CAD. Ça Roule Montreal on Wheels has four-hour tours for 32 CAD or a full-day rental for 40 CAD (helmet and lock included).

5. Relax in Parc La Fontaine

Whether you want to play beach volleyball, tennis, or just have a picnic, Parc La Fontaine is a relaxing spot to kick back and enjoy. This former farm became a public park in the 19th century and has been a beloved community greenspace ever since. In the summer, there are free performances at the outdoor Théâtre de Verdure, while in the winter you can skate on the pond or go cross-country skiing.

6. Walk around Le Plateau

This popular neighborhood combines shady residential streets, colorful old Victorian homes, boutique shopping, and trendy restaurants. Walk around and admire the architecture, pop into some antique shops, and keep an eye out for colorful street murals. In the summer, the Ave. du Mont-Royal even transforms into a huge street fair!

7. Take a boat ride

Montreal is on an island and there are 234 islands in its vicinity. To explore, you can take different boat tours of the harbor from the Old Town, as well as longer tours of the Lachine Canal and the nearby Boucherville Islands. Along the way, your guide can tell you all about the area’s maritime history. Some tours are limited to 30 passengers, which means you’re never competing for the best view. La Petit Navire offers tours starting at 23.50 CAD for the Old Town tour and 34 CAD for Lachine Canal.

8. See the St. Joseph Oratory

Standing nearly as tall as St. Peter’s in Rome (97 meters/318 feet), this basilica towers over the city skyline. It is one of the most visited shrines in the world, also housing a chapel and a crypt. Canada’s largest church, it’s the final resting spot for Brother André, a simple porter turned miracle worker from the early 1900s who supposedly had healing powers. The architecture is interesting as well, with a Renaissance Revival facade and Art Deco interior. Entry is free and guided tours cost 5 CAD (tours are currently suspended due to COVID-19). The Oratory Museum displaying art and heritage is 3 CAD open daily 10am-4:30pm. You can even stay at the Oratory overnight (55 CAD for a twin room, with breakfast included).

9. Visit the Notre Dame Basilica

This 17th-century Gothic Revival basilica started as a tiny stone church. Now, it’s a testament to the importance of religion and art in the city’s history (Catholicism is the dominant religion in Quebec). Its dual towers are reminiscent of the cathedral in Paris, and its interior is a stunning display of religious paintings, colorful stained-glass windows, and gold-leaf decorations. There’s also a 7,000-pipe organ inside. You can visit and do a 60-minute self-guided tour for 14 CAD. The award-winning Aura multi-media luminous experience (a light and projection show inside the church) is 34 CAD and has attracted over half a million people from all over the world.

10. See the Cabaret Mado

This entertaining drag cabaret is hosted by Mado Lamotte, an iconic diva from the city’s Gay Village. It’s been going on for 30 years and makes for a wild night of music, comedy, costume, and dancing, with guest performers each night. Don’t sit too close to the stage or else you’ll get roasted! Tickets start at 30 CAD.

11. Explore Parc Jean-Drapeau

Made up of two islands, Parc Jean-Drapeau covers 662 acres of green space and contains a racetrack, museums, and even the La Ronde amusement park. The park was the site of the 1967 World’s Fair and today it remains an important event space. Most of the city’s major festivals are held here, including Osheaga, the Canadian Grand Prix, and the Fête des Neiges (a free winter carnival). If you visit during the summer, check out Piknic Électronik, a weekly electronic music festival held each Sunday typically from May to the end of October. Everyone brings a picnic and a bottle of wine! Tickets are 20 CAD.

12. Take a food tour

Montreal is Canada’s food capital. Local Montréal Food Tours has several different food tours around town on which you’ll sample Montreal classics like Montreal bagels as well as poutine, a purely Canadian dish of fries, a gravy-like sauce, and cheese curds. They also have a brewpub tour if you find yourself extra thirsty as you explore. Prices start from 52 CAD for a two-hour tour.

  For more information on other cities in Canada, check out these guides:

• Calgary Travel Guide
• Nova Scotia Travel Guide
• Ottawa Travel Guide
• Quebec City Travel Guide
• Toronto Travel Guide
• Vancouver Travel Guide
• Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Montreal Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a 4-8-bed dorm costs 35-45 CAD per night while a dorm with 10 beds or more costs 30-35 CAD. A standard private room starts at 75 CAD per night for two people but averages closer to 150 CAD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. A couple of hostels also include free breakfast.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city for around 25 CAD per night. This gets you a basic plot without electricity for two people.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at 110-125 CAD in the center of town. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, AC, and a coffee/tea maker.

Airbnb is available everywhere in Montreal, with private rooms starting around 45 CAD per night. An entire home/apartment starts at around 90 CAD per night. Expect prices to double if you don’t book early.

Food – The food in Montreal is a collage of dishes from other cultures, owing to the country’s diverse history of immigration. In Montreal, you’ll want to make sure you try poutine (it has the best poutine in the country), smoked meat, and Montreal bagels, as well as more general Canadian staples like beaver tails (fried dough with maple syrup), Canadian bacon, and the oddly tasty ketchup chips.

For budget travelers, Montreal has an endless selection of fast-food joints and takeaway spots. You can find poutine for under 10 CAD, or burgers and small pizzas for around 10-12 CAD each. A smoked meat sandwich can cost around 20 CAD with fries and coleslaw, while a hearty bagel sandwich costs about 10-12 CAD. Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 13 CAD for a combo meal.

A meal at a casual restaurant is around 20 CAD. A beer to go with it is about 6-8 CAD. If you want to splash out, a meal at a high-end restaurant costs about 45 CAD for an entree without a drink.

If you cook for yourself, expect to spend around 50-60 CAD per week on groceries. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, produce, and some meat.

Some of my favorite restaurants in Montreal include Fairmount Bagels, Damas, Wilensky’s, Le Serpent (for something upscale), La Chilenita, Olive et Gourmando, Main Deli, Sushi Momo, and Drogheria.

Backpacking Montreal Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Montreal, expect to spend at least 60 CAD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, walking everywhere or taking public transportation, and doing mostly free activities like hanging out on Mont-Royal and doing free walking tours. If you plan on drinking, add 10-20 CAD to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 150 CAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, take the occasional taxi, enjoy a couple of drinks, and visit some museums or do a food tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 265 CAD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, take more taxis or rent a car, and do whatever tours or activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CAD.

Montreal Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Montreal isn’t one of the cheapest destinations on the world but there are a lot of ways to cut your spending when you vist, especially if you stick to the free activities. Here are some ways to save money when you visit Montreal:

• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host in Montreal. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you can connect with a local who can share their insider tips.
• Take a free walking tour – Walking tours are a great way to get familiar with a city and its culture. Free Montreal Tours offers one that covers all the main highlights. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Get the museum pass – A Montréal Museum Pass provides access to over 40 different museums around Montreal. A three-day pass is 75 CAD, while a three-day pass with unlimited transportation is 80 CAD.
• Apportez-votre vin – Many restaurants in Montreal have a sign displayed out front that says “Apportez-votre vin” (bring your own wine). You can pick up a cheap bottle of wine at the supermarket and bring it to dinner with you!
• Look for free events – Montreal has tons of free events year-round, but especially during the summer. Many of the major music festivals (like the Montreal International Jazz Festival, the largest jazz festival in the world) have free concerts or shows in the streets. There are also free art shows, theatrical performances, and even stand-up comedy (the annual Just For Laughs comedy festival is the largest comedy festival in the world). Mtl.org lists all events!
• Check out Montreal Sweet Deals – Mtl.org also has a selection of “Sweet Deals,” where if you book a room with one of the partner hotels directly, you’ll get special perks like late departure, breakfast included, or a discounted room rate (sometimes up to 30% off).
• Eat at Montreal’s Food Markets – Head to Jean-Talon market in Little Italy, the largest open-air market in North America for a unique experience and stock up on fresh food items. There are also many eateries and places to get a snack or a full meal whether you’re in the mood for tacos, mozzarella sticks, crepes, ice cream, or oysters.
• Pick up a Passeport MTL – Much like the museum pass above, the official city pass, Passeport MTL, lets you choose admission to five attractions from a list of over 28 attractions when you buy a card. The card also includes discounted offers to other attractions too. It’s 95 CAD.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Montreal

Montreal has lots of hostels that are fun, social, and affordable. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• HI Montreal Hostel
• Alexandrie-Montréal
• Samesun Montreal Central

How to Get Around Montreal

Public transportation – Montreal’s bus service covers the entire city center and the outskirts of town, including the airport. It’s 3.50 CAD for one ride or 6.50 CAD for a return trip. An unlimited day pass is 11 CAD, which is your best option. You can use your tickets on the subway as well, which is the best way to get around the city.

If you’d like to be able to top up your transit card, purchase an OPUS card for 6 CAD.

You can take bus 747 to and from the airport for 11 CAD each way.

Taxi – Taxis are not cheap here. Their base rate is 4.05 CAD and it’s an additional 1.75 CAD per kilometer afterward. Skip the taxis if you can as prices add up fast!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Montreal and is a bit cheaper than taxis, however, it’s still much more expensive than public transportation and likely not much faster if you’re downtown. Bicycle – Montreal is very bike-city friendly and there are plenty of bicycle rental businesses around town. The public bike rental system is Bixi Bike. It costs 50 cents to unlock a bike, and then 10 cents/per minute for a regular bike or 12 cents/per minute for an e-bike. With over 8,000 bikes available at 700 stations across the city, you can easily hop around the city by bike. If you purchase an OPUS transit pass, you can link it to Bixi Bike to easily tap and rent a bike, as well as receive 10% off fares.

When to Go to Montreal

Montreal is at its busiest in the summer, especially when all the outdoor patios are open and there’s a festival practically every week. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures hovering around 25°C (78°F). Just note that accommodation prices increase and tourist attractions can get crowded during this time so you may want to book early.

Both early fall and late spring are excellent times to visit as the weather is warm, you can do all the outdoor exploration you want, and there aren’t many tourists around. It’s stunning from late September to the end of October when the leaves start turning color.

Winters in Montreal are bitterly cold, with temperatures averaging around -7°C (19°F) in January though it can get much colder. Expect lots of snow too. In short, I wouldn’t suggest visiting in the winter unless you’re heading further afield to ski and enjoy the snow.

How to Stay Safe in Montreal

Montreal is very safe and you’re unlikely to experience any violent crime here. Your greatest risk is petty crime, like pickpocketing, but even that is rare. Pickpocketing is most likely to occur in busy restaurants and cafes or on public transportation, so keep an eye on your valuables when you’re out and about just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe in the country, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the city.

Avoid neighborhoods like Notre Dame Ouest and Wellington Street after dark as sometimes gangs frequent the area.

If visiting in the winter, dress warmly. The temperature can get extremely cold (to the point where people have died).

Scams here are in the city. If you’re worried about them though, you can read about the common travel scams to avoid here.

The number for emergency services is 911.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Montreal Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Montreal Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Canada and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary

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Home » North America » Montreal

INSIDER MONTREAL ITINERARY for (2024)

In this Montreal itinerary, you’ll see why Montreal is rated one of the most liveable cities, and is an important hub for commerce, arts, culture, and architecture in the Province of Quebec- the French-speaking part of Canada. With a population of just over 4 million people, Montreal is Canada’s second-biggest city after Toronto, and it’s the second-largest French-speaking city in the world after Paris!

The city is ethnically diverse, but there is no doubt that the French have had the biggest influence in shaping Montreal’s culture, architecture, and love of food. Montreal is crazy about food! The city is bulging with restaurants and unique culinary traditions that you just have to add to your itinerary and try out for yourself when touring Montreal!

If you are planning a trip to Montreal and are busy putting an itinerary for Montreal together, check out our suggestions of places to visit in Montreal in 3 days! Whether you plan on spending a weekend or longer in Montreal, our itinerary is your perfect guide to the city.

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Best Time To Visit Montreal

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High season in Montreal is in the summer months of June through to early September. This is when the warm temperatures make exploring the city on foot enjoyable, and a whole roster of events take place throughout the city.

The weather during the winter months can get brutally cold, but because of the ski slopes outside Montreal, the city enjoys a short busy season over the Christmas holidays. The best times to visit Montreal are from March to May, and from September to November, when the weather is milder, the ski slopes lack snow, and hotel beds are easily available.

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The Fall months are a lovely time to visit even though there is a distinct lack of events taking place. It is around this time when you can enjoy colorful walks in the city’s parks and the roads are less crowded for day trips into the countryside.

Check out the helpful guide below to decide for yourself when to visit Montreal!

Montreal is actually an island city, situated between the Ottawa River and St Lawrence River. It is comprised of 19 boroughs, which are further divided into neighborhoods with their own unique history, architecture, feel, and flare.

If you are planning to visit Montreal for the first time, look no further than Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal), in the heart of the city. Many of Montreal’s landmarks are dotted around this quaint neighborhood as it is the oldest district in the city. Old Montreal is known for its winding cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vintage aesthetic.

For a fun and lively evening on the town, The Village has everything you could wish for on offer. This suburb has trendy restaurants, chic nightclubs, and a vibrant LGBTQ community.

One of the city’s hippest neighborhoods, with iconic colorful row houses, is known as Le Plateau. It’s loaded with dynamic cocktail bars, hole-in-the-wall hangout spots, and eclectic eateries that make it an ultra-cool area.

If you are traveling on a tight budget or backpacking through Montreal there are plenty of hostels and affordable accommodation in Griffintown. This up-and-coming neighborhood is centrally located, close to many well-known Montreal points of interest, and is friendly on the pocket.

Best Hostel In New Montreal – M Montreal

If you’re looking for a great hostel look no further than the award-winning M Montreal. It offers a modern and spacious environment for travelers to hang out and relax.

M Montreal feels like a home away from home, with super comfortable beds, clean facilities, and welcoming staff. The rooftop terrace is amazing and brings together travelers from all over the world is a social and relaxed atmosphere.

Hostels are fun to stay in, and these are our top picks for the best hostels in Montreal .

Best Budget Hotel in Montreal – L’Hotel Particulier Griffintown

For a great budget stay, choose L’Hotel Particulier Griffintown in Montreal’s Griffintown District. This is an urban B&B, housed in a beautiful historic building. Guests can enjoy access to a large garden with trees and a terrace with a barbecue.

All units are fitted with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom equipped with a bath and a hairdryer. L’Hotel Particulier Griffintown also offers a city view and is close to important Montreal landmarks.

Best Luxury Hotel in Montreal – Hotel Gault

Hotel Gault offers luxurious guest rooms, exceptional spa services, and gourmet dining options in a contemporary boutique hotel in the heart of Old Montreal.

This is one of the best places to stay in Montreal for several reasons: there’s 24-hour dining service, a cozy library area with a fireplace, and on-site DVD rentals. Spacious accommodations at the hotel feature heated bathroom floors, mini-bars, flat-screen TVs, and large picture windows.

Best Airbnb in Montreal –  The Rustic Chic

Spacious and stylish, this three-bedroom apartment in Montreal’s Le Plateau neighbourhood is the best Airbnb in the city .

Great for a small family or a group of friends, this conveniently located apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, unlimited wifi, and a large private balcony. Enjoy a clean and comfortable home just minutes from the action.

Getting around and visiting various destinations on this Montreal Itinerary is a breeze with multiple forms of transport at hand to ensure you arrive safely and on time. Montreal has an affordable and convenient public transport system and prides itself on being bike- and pedestrian-friendly.

The city’s transit system, called la Société de Transport de Montreal (STM), provides a bus and metro (subway) system that connects the city to all the main suburbs and tourist hubs. The metro has a simple network of just four lines, and it is a fast and clean way to get around Montreal.

Montreal boasts a whopping 480 miles of bike paths, and is one of the most bike-friendly cities in North America! Experience the city like a local and lower your carbon footprint at the same time by renting a bicycle from the many bike rental outlets, or try out the city’s BIXI system.

As Montreal is an island, you can also get around via the waterways using a water taxi. They operate between the Old Port of Montréal and Parc Jean-Drapeau, Longueuil, and other points of interest along the St. Lawrence River.

Taking public transport will make getting around the city a breeze on our 2-day and 3-day itinerary in Montreal! Have a look at our suggestions for what to do an what to visit in Montreal  to ensure you have a great trip!

Old Montreal | Notre-Dame Basilica | Old Port of Montreal | Pointe-a-Calliere Museum | Barbie Expo

The first day on our 2-day itinerary in Montreal is centered around the historic district of Old Montreal, getting a glimpse of the city’s past, and enjoying everything the area has to offer.

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a city within a city, packed into a quaint neighborhood frozen in time.
• Food recommendation: Start your day off with an opulent coffee and breakfast at Tommy.

The perfect place to start your Montreal itinerary is at the site of where it all began, Old Montreal! This quaint area with its cobblestone streets, chapels and old architecture is where French settlers first built the town in 1642.

Old Montreal was once enclosed by thick, fortified walls, and was the financial powerhouse in the early days of the Dominion of Canada. The remnants of the city’s past still stand today. With churches, stone warehouses, and financial houses of the 18th century standing as a testament to the city’s prosperity.

The neighborhood is still alive with activity as many companies still continue to operate in the area. This is undoubtedly the best place to embark on a Montreal walking tour, be it for culinary delights or a good history lesson!

If you have time, search for a great deal in the bargain clothing stores, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the cobbled streets, or come back in the evening and enjoy a drink at one of the many lively bars!

Insider tip : Make sure you take a walk down St Paul Street, one of the most iconic streets in Montreal. You’ll find art galleries, restaurants, the Bonsecours Market, and the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Notre-Dame Basilica

• Why it’s awesome: A grandiose church comparable with some of the most exquisite in Europe.
• Cost: $6 USD
• Food nearby: Indulge in a sweet or savory crepe at Crêperie Chez Suzette just around the corner.

The next stop on our Montreal itinerary is one of the most visited of all Montreal attractions. The Notre-Dame Basilica is Montreal’s oldest church and one of the most awe-inspiring churches in North America.

The Gothic Revival-style church opened to the public in 1829 after construction began in 1824. The interior is adorned with detailed statues, intricate carvings, and thousands of beautiful gold stars studded on the ceiling.

Notre-Dame is a grand old lady with some impressive features. Two imposing 228-foot towers soar above the skyline, the impressive Casavant Frères pipe organ dominates the front of the 3,200 capacity church, and the base bell weighing 12 tons is the largest in North America!

Interestingly, the stained-glass windows along the walls of the sanctuary do not depict scenes from the bible, but rather scenes from Montreal’s own religious history. The Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Sacre-Coeur (Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Chapel) is a very popular venue for weddings, and it’s where some of Canada’s biggest celebrities have tied the knot!

Insider tip : Be sure to catch “Aura,” the 40-minute multimedia spectacle that celebrates the basilica’s exquisite features through light and sound.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Old Port of Montreal

• Why it’s awesome: Take advantage of one of the many fun activities on offer in the vicinity of the Old Port.
• Food nearby: Grab a drink and a contemporary Canadian dish at Terrasses Bonsecours on the water’s edge.

The Old Port of Montreal was once the city’s commercial hub. It’s now Montreal’s favorite waterfront park and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Canada! There are over 50 fun-filled activities to enjoy in the area, from carnival rides to water sports.

A stop here is a great way to enjoy the St. Lawrence River. For a relaxing time, you can rent a pedal boat, catch a ferry to Île Ste-Hélène, or enjoy a leisurely dinner cruise. More action-packed activities include river rafting and riding a jet boat through the turbulent Lachine Rapids!

On land there is also lots to keep yourself entertained with, like taking a ride on the tallest Ferris wheel in Canada, the Grande Roue, sunbathing at Clock Tower Beach, and perusing the many art displays and street shows. Warships from the Canadian and other national navies often dock here and allow the public to explore their decks.

On fair weather days, you can rent a bicycle or a pair of in-line skates and explore the waterfront at your leisure, and in winter you can skate on the outdoor rink. For a bit of silly fun, head to Shed 16 and get lost in the Labyrinth, a maze of alleys and obstacles built inside an old waterfront warehouse!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History (Pointe-a-Calliere Museum)

• Why it’s awesome: Visit the actual foundations of the city, see the layers of Montreal history and walk around the old sewers beneath ground level.
• Cost: $16 USD
• Food nearby: Sit down to an eclectic seafood dish at the stylish SeaSalt & Ceviche Bar one block over.

The Museum of Archaeology and History is a great place to begin discovering Montreal and its past. A short elevator trip underground reveals a hidden world of ruins and ancient artifacts. The experience starts with an immersive multimedia show presenting a time-lapse of the city’s history and life throughout the ages.

Archaeological digs reveal the foundations of the original settlement, established in the 17th century. As well as the many other layers of the city’s development, from a small colony to the thriving city is is today. Visitors even get the chance to walk through the original underground sewer system, from one exhibit to another.

There are numerous period fairs in the summer months as well as temporary local and international exhibits on display year-round. The displays are well designed and engaging in manner, giving you some needed background to the city on your Montreal itinerary!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Barbie Expo

• Why it’s awesome: See Barbie like never before, dressed to the nines in designer outfits.
• Food nearby: Enjoy a fine seafood meal at the acclaimed Ferreira Café, across the road from the mall.

If you love fashion then you’ll love a quick stop at the Barbie Expo, located in Les Cours Mont-Royal, an upscale shopping mall in the heart of downtown Montreal. This is more than just a Barbie exhibition, but rather a cleverly disguised advertisement that showcases the haute couture fashion available at the exclusive flagship boutiques found at the mall.

There are over 1,000 Barbies on display, the largest permanent collection in the world, each dressed up in an intricately designed outfit representing a different nationality, profession, or fashion era. Some adorn clothes designed by famous fashion designers including Christian Dior, Donna Karan, Armani, Ralph Laurent, Vera Wang, Bill Blass, Oscar de la Renta, and Christian Louboutin!

There is a fashion show with Barbie models walking down the catwalk presenting the latest in high-fashion wear, and a delighted Barbie audience looking on in admiration. What would a Barbie expo be like without celebrity-themed Barbies resembling mega-stars such as Marilyn Munroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and Cher on display?

The expo has the ability to induce nostalgia, and is a good alternative to keep yourself entertained while your significant other is browsing through the designer label stores of the mall.

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Montreal Museum of Fine Arts | Mount Royal Park | Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal | Jean-Talon Market | Montreal Botanical Garden

The second day of our Montreal trip itinerary combines art, culture, good food, and plenty of walking to give you  more of what this city has to offer.

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal)

• Why it’s awesome: The most impressive collection of fine art in all of Canada, spread out over five buildings.
• Cost: $17 USD
• Food nearby: Have a healthy smoothie or plant-filled meal at La Panthère Verte, an eco-conscious vegan cafe and juice bar further down Sherbrooke Street.

The second day of this Montreal itinerary begins with a dose of culture at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

Montreal’s premier fine arts museum is proudly one of Canada’s most visited museums, and has been showcasing an assortment of fine arts for over 150 years! Located on the historic Golden Mile Square, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is spread out across five pavilions, all linked by underground tunnels.

A visit here will thrill the senses with various artistic disciplines on display including art, music, film, fashion, and design. It houses some of the finest Canadian art and also an impressive collection of international works. It includes pieces by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, El Greco, Renoir, Cézanne, and Picasso.

There are also other notable works in the museum’s collection that include 18th-century English porcelain, World War I artifacts, and furniture designed by Frank Gehry.

The MMFA complex includes Bourgie Hall, a 460-seat concert hall, and the Michel de la Chenelière International Atelier for Education and Art Therapy, the largest educational complex of its kind in North America.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Mount Royal Park

• Why it’s awesome: Escape the city and stretch your legs in the park locals fondly call ‘the mountain.’
• Food nearby: Have lunch with a view at Mount Royal Chalet, a cafe inside Mount Royal Park with sweeping views of the city below.

If you enjoy a natural oases in the urban jungle, don’t even think about missing the next stop on our Montreal itinerary!

Mount Royal Park is a well-loved, freely-used natural park in the center of the city. Inaugurated in 1876, the park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same designer behind New York’s Central Park.

The park is situated on a mere 760-feet high mound of basalt-like rock, and locals affectionately refer to it as their mountain. It’s a refuge and a pocket of wilderness within the city, where you can go to relax, unwind, admire the nature, and the city below.

There are loads of enjoyable routes to walk that make you feel like you’re venturing down a quiet country lane, with grassy lawns to settle down for a picnic and a lake that attracts waterbirds. In winter the park is a great snow-covered wonderland where you can cross-country ski, skate at Lac-aux-Castors, and toboggan or sled down some slopes.

Insider tip : If you want to explore with minimum effort, you can hire the services of a horse-drawn carriage (or a sleigh in Winter).

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal (L’Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal)

• Why it’s awesome: The largest cathedral in the world dedicated to Jesus’ father, Joseph, with a beautifully decorated interior and glorious city views from the domed roof.
• Food nearby: For some Parisian-style pastries or savory deli meals head to Duc de Lorraine, North-east of the cathedral.

Close to Mount Royal is the aptly named Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal. This grand cathedral is dedicated to Saint Joseph, the patron saint of Canada, and is the largest shrine of its kind in the world!

The Oratory was built in an Italian Renaissance style with a huge copper dome rising 318 feet high! From the top you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. Luckily, there is a shuttle to take you to the top if you don’t feel up to climbing the Basilica’s 99 steps.

The interior of the cathedral is intricately decorated with carved murals, and the votive chapel houses no less than 1,000 candles! There is also an Oratory museum that features nativity scenes from around the world.

St Joseph’s Oratory receives several million visitors a year and welcomes both the devout and the non-religious to discover the cultural and spiritual treasures within its walls.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Jean-Talon Market

• Why it’s awesome: A concentration of all the different cuisines offered in Montreal and a meeting place where everyone will be well-fed and happy.
• Food nearby: Choose your meal among the biggest variety of food under one roof.

For a buzzing atmosphere and a social gathering point, try out the Jean Talon Market. It is a great place to mingle with Montrealers and taste all the lovely local delicacies!

This open-air market is one of the largest public markets in North America. In a city that prides itself on gourmet delicacies, this is a must-visit for anyone looking to stimulate their culinary senses! Browse the market for fresh produce, meats and cheeses, taste the best local dishes in Quebec, or indulge your sweet tooth at one of the many food stalls that occupy the market.

The Jean-Talon Market is not a quick stop, ‘take a picture and leave’ type attraction on the Montreal itinerary, instead, it’s a place to experience an authentic piece of Montreal’s culture, interact with others, and see locals go about their daily business. A must-do for any ‘foodie’ itinerary for Montreal!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique de Montréal)

• Why it’s awesome : Regain your zen surrounded by 190 acres of calm paradise.
• Cost : $15 USD
• Food nearby : Stay a little longer and enjoy a meal at the Restaurant Jardin Botanique inside the botanical gardens.

The final stop on day two of the itinerary is for all the nature-lovers, botanists, naturalists, and romantics!

Recognized as one of the world’s greatest botanical gardens, the Montreal Botanical Gardens is one of the city’s jewels and is a place you should visit on a pleasant day. With a collection of 22,000 plant species and cultivars, 10 exhibition greenhouses, a tree house, and more than 20 thematic gardens spread out over 190 acres, it’s a perfect place to enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty!

Spend some time strolling through the tranquil bonsai trees in the Japanese Garden, learn about the principles of yin and yang in the Chinese Garden, and don’t miss the ever-popular toxic plant garden. Another fascinating feature is the Insectarium, one of the largest insect museums in North America, with more than 250,000 specimens of living and naturalized insects!

Insider tip : Make sure you wear some comfy shoes and maybe pack some snacks for a picnic in the lush grounds.

If you’re looking for a great hostel look no further than the award-winning M Montreal. It has everything you need to make your stay comfortable. If you’re visting more than just Montreal, these are the BEST hostels in Canada.

• Free Breakfast

Montreal Olympic Park | Parc Jean-Drapeau | Montreal Science Centre | Flavors of Montreal Walking Tour

If you plan on spending more than a few days in Montreal , don’t worry, there is still lots more to see and do! For your convenience, we have included extra points of interests in Montreal to provide the perfect three-day itinerary in Montreal!

Montreal Olympic Park

• The site of the 1976 Summer Olympic Games
• Admire Montreal from atop the highest inclined tower in the world
• Take a tour of the stadia and emulate the athletes that stood upon the medal podium

This one is for the fans, specifically sports fans! Montreal’s Olympic Park was the site of the 1976 Summer Olympic Games, with the original stadia from the Games still hosting events and welcoming visitors to the precinct.

One of the main attractions of the park is the 165 meter-high Montreal Tower, an architectural work of art and the tallest inclined tower in the world! A glass-enclosed funicular transports visitors to the observatory at the top of the tower, providing spectacular panoramic views over the city. From up here, you overlook the Stadium, Esplanade, and other incredible structures that make up the Olympic Park.

The Olympic Stadium is a unique monument and now an international symbol for Montreal. It is the largest covered amphitheater in the province of Quebec, and it continues to host major sporting events, concerts, and exhibitions.

The outdoor spaces of the Esplanade are open to anyone. The four levels combined make a unique public space that accommodates a range of cultural and sporting activities throughout the warmer months. While not much happens here on a typical day, it is interesting to see and a good place to chill out with friends or family.

Parc Jean-Drapeau

• See the dome of the Biosphere Environmental Museum, built for the 1967 world expo.
• Wander around the miles of paths in the natural parks.
• Visit the scenic Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, the scene of the Canadian F1 Grand Prix and NASCAR races.

This stop on the Montreal itinerary is best experienced at your own speed, as you can easily spend half a day exploring the two islands and their many sights!

A jewel in the St. Lawrence River, the two islands of St Helene and Notre-Dame combine to form Parc Jean-Drapeau. The park was named after the former mayor of Montreal who commissioned the metro and brought the 1967 World’s Fair and 1976 Olympic Games to the city!

Here you will find an urban park with miles of walking and cycling paths that take you all around the islands. The park includes an amusement park, colorful flower gardens dotted with public art, and the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve.

If you are feeling lucky, then have a gamble at the Casino de Montreal, or brush up on your military history at the Stewart Museum. Bring out the child in yourself and have some fun at La Ronde Amusement Park, have a splash at the water park, or just enjoy a tranquil lie-down on Jean-Dore beach!

Parc Jean Drapeau has a whole host of cultural and sporting programmes that take place throughout the year, so be sure to have a look at the schedule of events when you visit Montreal!.

Montreal Science Centre

• Watch a documentary in 3D in the huge IMAX cinema.
• Overcome your fears and learn all about the fascinating world of spiders (main exhibit).
• Experience science in action at one of the many permanent science displays.

Satisfy your scientific curiosity with a trip to Montreal Science Museum, located at the Old Port. This stop on the Montreal itinerary is recommended for all ages, and is a great way to keep children entertained and allow them to learn in a fun and interactive environment, even when on vacation in Montreal.

The Science Center sits on a pier overlooking the St. Lawrence River, enclosed in a large glass and steel exterior. It is a modern establishment with lots of fun and interactive exhibits that indulge the senses and provide an immersive experience.

You could find yourself riding a unicycle on a high wire, walking into a large bubble, and viewing pictures of yourself aging in a progression machine. Cutting-edge responsive technology is cleverly employed and brings to light the work of Canadian innovators and where technology could lead us over the next century.

Check out what’s showing at the state-of-the-art IMAX theatre, and make sure to watch a fascinating film if you have the time!

Flavors of Montreal Walking Tour

• Explore the streets of Old Montreal.
• Stop at various locations to sample the culinary delights.
• Learn about the history of Montreal’s gourmet food scene.

What better way to get a taste of Montreal than on a walking food tour! The city is rich in delicious flavors and variety of delicacies.

A walking tour of Montreal’s culinary scene will take you to numerous locations, where you get to sample a delicious array of French-inspired plates and experience the eating culture of the city first-hand. You don’t have to be a foodie to enjoy the tour, as there is also plenty of interesting history behind the arrival of the various cuisines.

The cobblestone streets of Old Montreal makes for a fantastic setting to learn about the long-standing French influence on the city’s culinary scene, and how the World’s Fair in 1967 expanded the palates of local residents. This historic district also happens to be home to some of the city’s finest boutique food sellers and patisseries, some of which have been providing excellent food for over a century!

A tour like this is a real treat, where you can expect to taste some fine smoked meats, cheeses, pastries, and pates. Combine this tour with another stop on the Montreal itinerary, and you’ll find it a great way to spend one day in Montreal!

Overall, Montreal is a safe city with a low crime rate and friendly residents that only add to the attraction of the city. However, some petty crimes and theft are frequent as in any other major city, so tourists should keep an eye on their valuables.

Cases of pickpocketing are common around restaurants, cafes, and markets where thieves are known to take valuables from purses and pockets. It is, therefore, advisable to keep your valuables close to you and out of sight in these areas.

Visitors must also be aware of the threat of natural disasters when touring Montreal. It is common for temperatures to dip below freezing in winter with ice storms and blizzards posing real hazards. Flooding is possible in spring, and it is also possible for earthquakes to occur anytime of the year.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Montreal

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you are looking to use Montreal as a base for exploring the countryside or for seeing the rest of Quebec, check out these great options for day trips from Montreal!

Quebec City & Montmorency Falls Full-Day Tour

On this full day tour, you’ll get the chance to explore the history of Quebec City and discover the birthplace of French civilization in North America.

You’ll see notable historic streets and buildings on the tour. It includes the Palace Royal and Vieux-Quebec (Old Quebec), the oldest public stairs at Escalier Casse-Cou, the elevator linking Lower and Upper Quebec, and panoramic views of Chateau Frontenac hotel.

Along the way, there will be time for lunch, shopping, spirit tasting, and some fun at the Winter Carnival. The last bit of the tour stops at the Ile D’Orleans, as well as the magnificent Montmorency Falls where the more adventurous can attempt to climb the frozen ice.

Laurentian Mountains Fall Leaves Full-Day Tour from Montreal

Enjoy a day out in the countryside surrounded by the beautiful backdrop of the Laurentian Mountains, where you’ll find a smattering of remote villages less than an hour from the city. The Laurentian Mountains are fondly renowned as Montreal’s four-season playground because of its various ski slopes and outdoor activities.

The tour includes stops at the charming villages of Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard, and then St. Agathe des Montsat where you will be treated to a boat cruise around Lac-des-Sables. Lastly, there is a photo stop at the lovely town of Saint-Sauveur before returning to Montreal.

Rivière-du-Loup: Whale Cruise & Bus Transport from Montreal

This tour takes you right up the St. Lawrence River to the little town of Riviere-du-Loup, 4.5 hours away by bus. From here you board the AML Levant for an incredible whale watching experience.

The vessel will make its way into the heart of the Saguenay-St-Lawrence Marine Park, where there is a bounty of marine life and a good chance of encountering the giants of the sea. Lunch is provided onboard and a professional guide is on hand to point out the various marine wildlife and share a history of the region.

After a few hours at sea spotting mink, fin, beluga, and possibly humpback whales, you will depart back to the city, stopping for a delicious meal along the way.

Ottawa: Ultimate 4-Hour City Tour

If you are interested in exploring Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, there aren’t any tours departing from Montreal, but getting there by public transport is fairly quick and easy!

Ottawa has so much to see and do, so we recommend a half-day tour that will allow you to visit some of the city’s most popular attractions and landmarks. The main stop is at Parliament Hill where you’ll get a great introduction to the city and an opportunity to explore Canada’s parliament buildings.

This tour includes a 1.5-hour river cruise giving you a different perspective of the over 55 must-see sites throughout the capital city! These include everything from Chateau Laurier Hotel and Rideau Falls to the Supreme Court of Canada and the Prime Minister’s House.

Montreal: Private Tour with a Local

If you think a tour of Montreal would be better with a local, or want to find additional hole-in-the-wall spots, then we suggest a private tour.

Learn about the best places to eat and buy groceries, the easiest ways to get around, and more unusual things to do in Montreal . This tour is customizable to fit your every need, and can last between 2-4 hours long!

By the end of the tour, you’ll feel more comfortable navigating the city, and confident that you have seen all that Montreal has to offer!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Montreal itinerary.

How many days do you need in Montreal?

We’d recommend having at least three to four full days to visit Montreal. That allows you to have plenty of time to explore the city, but also have a bit of time to yourself and let your feet have a break.

Is Montreal worth visiting?

Montreal is definitely worth to visit. It is rated one of the most liveable cities, and is an important hub for commerce, arts, culture, and architecture in the Province of Quebec- the French-speaking part of Canada.

Where should you be staying in Montreal if you have a full itinerary?

If you want to explore a lot during your stay, basing yourself in the city centre, Old Montreal, is the best choice you can make. You’ll be close to all attractions and perfectly connected to public transport.

What can you do in Montreal today?

There are plenty of epic things to do in Montreal, so it can get quite overwhelming to choose. Check out GetYourGuide or Airbnb experiences for the best activities, tours and tickets.

By now you should have all the information you need to have a great vacation in Montreal!

Montreal may well be Eastern Canada’s most popular city to visit, and you’ll easily see why. Its diverse population of friendly locals, quaint neighborhoods, impressive architecture, and amazing food options combine to make Montreal a great holiday destination!

If you are backpacking through Canada, and are moving onto other cities, be sure to check out our Backpacking Canada Travel Guide for more travel itineraries, places to visit, and information on where to stay and cost of travel!

Sheridan Cahoon

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• Destinations

The Best Hotels in Montreal

Plan your stay with these T+L award-winning and editor-loved hotels.

Accor Hotels

Montreal makes for a delightful getaway, delivering all the charm of a European city without needing to travel overseas (if you’re based in the U.S.). Quaint cobbled streets, a fantastic food and music scene, a friendly Francophone population, and a distinctly Quebecois sense of hospitality are just a few of the reasons to go. As for where to stay when you arrive, we’ve got you covered.

To help you plan the perfect trip, we’ve researched the city’s top hotels, which are tucked for the most part around the historic Golden Square Mile in central Montreal. We’ve included award-winning properties that earned coveted spots in our annual T+L World’s Best Awards , which features properties voted on by thousands of T+L readers, as well as places we’ve personally stayed, loved, and would recommend to a friend.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate boutique hotel just off the majestic Saint Lawrence River, or a luxury suite from one of the biggest names in hospitality (think: the first-ever Ritz-Carlton), you’ll find it on this list.

The Ritz-Carlton Montreal

This long-time celebrity-favorite hotel boasts superior service, Michelin-star cuisine, and an indoor saltwater pool with spectacular views over the city.

This is the Ritz-Carlton, after all, so it’s a splurge to stay here — but one that feels well worth it if you’re after old-school luxury with contemporary amenities.

A longstanding beacon of luxury, the 130-room Ritz-Carlton Montreal has been the hotel of choice for the city’s most distinguished visitors since it opened its doors on New Year’s Eve in 1912. Everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to Elizabeth Taylor (who wed Richard Burton on the property) has walked these halls, which were the first to ever use The Ritz-Carlton name. Various design refreshes over the years — including an epic four-year, $2 million renovation that wrapped in 2012 —  have brought welcome modern touches to an otherwise classic property that keep it feeling like a destination, and earned it the top spot in our World’s Best Awards in 2021.

From the ground up, there are endless corners to explore, with roaring fireplaces offering warm respite on snowy days, and an indoor saltwater pool promising jaw-dropping views over the city from the rooftop. In the elegantly appointed rooms and suites, expect elevated extras, like gold-framed televisions and heated bathroom floors. While Montreal’s culinary scene has plenty to draw you out of the hotel, it’s pure luxury to have Maison Boulud at your fingertips for elevated French fare — just be sure to stop by the Dom Pérignon bar beforehand to give your night a sparkling start. 

The Details:

• Neighborhood : Centre-Ville
• Distance From Airport: 11 miles
• Nearby Attractions : The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, McCord Stewart Museum, Dorchester Square
• Accessibility : Varies across room categories
• Parking : Yes, $28-35 CAD per day
• Loyalty Programs : Marriott Bonvoy, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards
• Pet Policy : Service animals welcome; pet-friendly, $110 flat fee
• Rates : Start at $339

Hôtel Place d'Armes

Hôtel Place d’Armes

It’s located smack in the middle of one of Montreal’s most charming neighborhoods, and offers unparalleled views over the Notre-Dame Basilica.

You’ll have to leave your furry friends at home — the property isn’t pet-friendly.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better location to base yourself as a first-time visitor to Montreal than the prestigious Le Place D’Armes, an institution in Old Montreal that dates back to the 19th century. The property comprises four historic buildings which sit opposite the Notre-Dame Basilica, the city’s defining architectural landmark. Its location is so exceptional that it earned the number two spot on our World’s Best Awards list in 2023.

After a long day of sightseeing, you can unwind at the luxe hammam spa or in the comfort of your own room, thanks to multi-jet rain showers and souvenir-worthy Le Labo toiletries. Inside the spacious rooms and suites, you’ll find exposed brick walls, arched windows, and leather headboards, plus electric fireplaces that add some extra charm to chilly winter days. 

• Neighborhood : Old Montreal 
• Distance From Airport: 13 miles
• Nearby Attractions : Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, Le Champ-de-Mars, Montreal City Hall, Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History 
• Accessibility : Wheelchair accessible
• Parking : Paid indoor parking, valet service, $42 CAD per day
• Pet Policy : Not allowed
• Rates : Start at $263

Hôtel Nelligan

Hôtel Nelligan

The rooftop terrace is a hotspot in the area for locals and visitors alike, offering beautiful views of the city and excellent cocktails.

There isn’t a pool or spa on the property, but you’re just around the corner from Bota Bota, one of the city’s premiere wellness destinations.

Maybe it’s the exposed brick lobby, or the terracotta tile floors — or perhaps it’s just the smile the staff flashes you as they deftly whisk your luggage away when you arrive, but there’s something about Hôtel Nelligan that feels like a homecoming. It’s the first hotel I ever stayed at in Montreal, and frankly could have been my last — my room looked out over a cobbled side street, hemmed in by the St. Lawrence River on one side and Notre-Dame Basilica on the other, with some of the city’s best shopping within gawking distance from my window. The views only got better from the rooftop terrace, which opens seasonally and draws a hip, local crowd for sunset cocktails; there’s also a steakhouse, Méchant Boeuf, where drinks flow freely and DJs take over on weekends.

While there’s no spa or pool on-site, you’re just a ten-minute walk from the indulgent water circuit at Bota Bota , the city’s famed boat spa that’s anchored in the St. Lawrence River. 

• Distance From Airport: 10.6 miles
• Nearby Attractions : Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, Bota Bota Spa Sur-L’Eau, The Underground City
• Rates : Start at $179

Auberge du Vieux-Port

Vintage charm abounds in this restored warehouse, which offers exceptional riverfront views.

The property only has one elevator, and it’s rather narrow — suffice it to say, it isn’t ideal for overpackers.

A night at the Auberge du Vieux-Port is an opportunity to travel back in time. The crackling fireplace in the lobby of this World’s Best Awards winner is the tip-off — the burnished wooden mantle feels like a relic from a bygone era. This 19th-century warehouse oozes vintage charm, with antique bed frames, exposed wooden beams, and spectacular casement windows that open out onto the St. Lawrence River or bustling St. Paul Street. Nearly all of the 45 rooms boast postcard-perfect views, although you’ll likely spend equal amounts of time admiring the original brick and stone walls.

While there isn’t a spa, the multi-jet rain showers and Le Labo bath products are sure to help you relax within the comfort of your own room. Once you’ve freshened up, make the most of the hotel’s prime location on the waterfront by grabbing a cocktail on their rooftop terrace, which has some of the best views in the city.

• Nearby Attractions : Old Port, Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, Bota Bota Spa Sur-L’Eau, Montreal City Hall 
• Accessibility : Not wheelchair accessible 
• Parking : Paid indoor parking, valet service, $48 CAD per night
• Rates : Start at $173

Four Seasons Hotel Montreal

Four Seasons Hotels

The hotel’s signature scent seduces you from the moment you walk in — the entire experience is a feast for the senses.

The ultra-modern design doesn’t offer the same distinct sense of place as the city’s historic boutique hotels.

In a city full of charming boutique hotels set in former warehouses that just barely clear the surrounding buildings, the Four Seasons Hotel Montreal quite literally stands out from a mile away. Its glimmering facade towers 18 stories above Golden Square Mile, offering a fresh perspective from ultra-modern digs that earned it a spot on our 2023 World’s Best Awards List. 169 rooms, 19 of which are suites, are perched between the sixth and 12th floors, all drenched in natural light and appointed with sleek four-poster beds. The neutral color palette is sophisticated and subdued, with brass accents and rosy pops of color in the form of pink velvet chaises and glass bedside lamps.

For a truly indulgent moment, book the signature Kneipp Hydrotherapy Experience at the Guerlain Spa, or retreat to the marble oasis of the indoor pool for a dip. 

• Distance From Airport: 12.9 miles
• Nearby Attractions : Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Grevin Museum Montreal, Mount Royal Park 
• Accessibility : Deluxe rooms, Deluxe Carré Doré rooms
• Parking : Valet parking, $42 CAD per day
• Pet Policy : Pet-friendly, no fee
• Rates : Start at $441

Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile

The staff go above and beyond, from the twice-daily room service to the in-the-know concierges.

There isn’t a spa on-site, although the concierges will gladly arrange a visit to a nearby spa or for a private treatment in the comfort of your room.

Retro flair meets decidedly modern luxury at this 256-room property at the foot of Mount Royal Park. The rooms are simple and stylish, with wooden headboards, dreamy feathertop beds, geometric-print carpets, and pops of art on the walls. Victorian accents are studded throughout the property, collected from the estate of North American railroad pioneer William Cornelius Van Horne. Like with all Sofitel properties, you can expect elevated and professional service from the accommodating staff, who will go out of their way to ensure you enjoy your stay.

It’s easy to see why the hotel is a favorite for business travelers and anyone passing through on a shorter stay, as its prime location in Old Montreal puts you within easy walking distance of must-see destinations like The Museum of Fine Arts. 

• Distance From Airport: 8.8 miles
• Nearby Attractions : Mount Royal Park, Montreal Museum of Fine Art, Place des Arts
• Accessibility : Wheelchair accessible 
• Parking : Valet parking, $45 CAD per day
• Loyalty Programs : ALL – Accor Live Limitless
• Pet Policy : Pet friendly
• Rates : Start at $203

Hotel Uville

‘60s- and ‘70s-themed rooms tell unique stories about Montreal’s history through photos and videos from that era.

This hip hotel is a social space designed to invite conversation and discovery — it may not be ideal for those seeking a quiet or private getaway.

Mod wallpaper, tiled bathrooms, and in-room turntables with vinyls set the mood at this ‘60s- and ‘70’s-themed hotel, which is essentially an ode to Montreal’s rich cultural history. Each of the 33 rooms shares a unique perspective on the city’s past, tracing its legacy from Expo 67 through hundreds of archival photographs and films courtesy of the National Film Board. It’s kitschy yet well-curated, and the sparsely-yet-stylishly furnished rooms allow you to focus on the mini gallery set up on your walls.

The vibe is decidedly playful and hip, drawing a youthful and artsy crowd who lingers over coffee or wine in the convivial lounge before chatting with the concierge, who’ll gladly offer insider tips on the best exhibitions in town.

• Distance From Airport: 12 miles
• Nearby Attractions : Youville Park, Notre-Dame Basilica, Old Port 
• Parking : No
• Rates : Start at $139

The spacious suites here boast next-level views — literally, they span two floors.

The showers don’t offer much in the way of privacy — you can be seen from pretty much any angle in the room.

There’s a distinctly youthful energy radiating from the W Montreal, where locals and visitors alike gather in the hotel’s vibey co-working space, The Living Room, to sip on specialty coffee and hop on Zoom calls until it’s time to switch to cocktails instead. On weekends, DJ sets further liven up the space (light sleepers, pack earplugs), so night owls needn’t trek over to Plateau in the cold. It feels designed for the digital nomad crowd, with writing desks in every room (even the entry-level “Cozy” rooms) for those who prefer to work on their own. The only drawback here is that Wi-Fi is only included for Marriott Bonvoy members — otherwise, it’ll run you an additional $9.95 CAD per day.

While not exactly a steal, the hotel’s “Wow” suites are surprisingly well priced for how spacious they are: the bi-level set up means ultra-high ceilings, tons of natural light, and plenty of room to spread out — and best of all, you can take in the skyline from your own private terrace. Just note that the transparent plexiglass showers offer minimal privacy, so even with all the extra space, sharing these rooms is a somewhat intimate experience. 

• Distance From Airport: 7.4 miles
• Nearby Attractions : Banque du Canada, The Underground City, Notre-Dame Basilica 
• Accessibility : Wonderful Guest Rooms
• Parking : Paid private parking, $50 CAD per day
• Loyalty Programs : Marriott Bonvoy
• Pet Policy : Yes
• Wi-Fi : Free for Marriott Bonvoy members; $9.95 CAD per day for non-members
• Rates : Start at $216

Hotel William Gray

Housed in two 18th century buildings, this hotel boasts proximity to the water, an outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace, and drawings from a local artist in every room.

The hotel features a lively, social atmosphere – a consideration if you prefer a quieter, more private experience.

Perched over the Place Jacques-Cartier in the heart of Old Montreal, the Hotel William Gray is one of the city’s most contemporary luxury offerings, seamlessly blending modern decor with historical structures like the original stone walls and slate floors of the 18th century buildings. The buildings have lived many lives, previously housing a printer, shops, and stables, and later preserved as a historic monument. Inside, however, the vibe speaks entirely to the Montreal of today: young creatives gather in The Living Room, the hotel’s central library bar equipped with a pool table and vinyl, which feels like a hub of energy in this neighborhood.

The property, which opened to much fanfare in 2016, was designed by Montreal-based firm CAMDI , who adorned the rooms with dark woods, gauzy curtains, and ultra-comfortable beds. Each room also features fabulous bird drawings from local artist Steven Spazuk , while common spaces boast graffiti-inspired murals by Montreal-based visual artist Alan Ganev. Those seeking some proper rest and relaxation should head to the luxurious spa, which boasts an outdoor pool and a thermal circuit. For some of the best views around, head up to the 7th floor for a drink on Terrasse William Gray.

• Distance From Airport: 9.9 miles
• Nearby Attractions : Place Jacques Cartier, Notre-Dame Basilica, The Biosphere
• Accessibility : Alcove Queen, Alcove King
• Parking : Paid private parking, $48 CAD per day
• Pet Policy : No pets allowed; service dogs allowed with certificate
• Rates : Start at $209

Booking Tip

Rooms facing the central lobby atrium can be slightly noisier — ask for a street- or river-facing room.

Hôtel de l'ITHQ

l’Hôtel de l’ITHQ

Located near the bustling, artistic Plateau district, this hotel offers simple yet stylish rooms and balconies in a vibrant part of town.

While rooms are generously sized, the acrylic furniture feels utilitarian rather than luxurious.

For the most part, the city’s best hotels are crowded around Golden Square Mile in Old Montreal, which is a fantastic place for first timers to base themselves — but return visitors will want to be a little closer to the action of Plateau-Mont-Royal, a hip neighborhood home to shops, cafés, and the city’s most famous bagel shop ( St-Viateur ).

The sustainably-driven Hôtel de l'ITHQ is the ideal home base for exploring the area, offering sunny, sparse rooms and spacious suites just above the Sherbrooke metro station. While the decor isn’t particularly luxurious, it's modern and comfortable, and most rooms boast a private balcony that’s perfect for scoping out the charming surroundings. The hotel, which is part of the renowned Institut de Tourisme et d'Hôtellerie du Québec, is run with the help of hospitality students, who are enthusiastic and highly professional (and make a mean breakfast, which is included).  

• Neighborhood : Plateau-Mont-Royal
• Distance From Airport: 7 miles
• Nearby Attractions : Lafontaine Park, Museum of Contemporary Art, Place des Arts
• Accessibility : Universelle Room
• Parking : Indoor parking, $19 to 24 CAD per day
• Pet Policy : Pets allowed
• Rates : Start at $177

Hotel Le Germain

The ‘60s-inspired decor is retro and whimsical, with hanging bubble chairs in most rooms.

The design of this hotel skews quirky and modern; distinct from more traditional properties in the area.

Le Germain Hotel Montreal’s colorful facade stands out among the glass buildings of Downtown, thanks to a vibrant mural painted by Canadian artist Michelle Hoogveld . Inside, it’s charmingly retro, with elegant ‘60s-inspired furnishings in shades of gray and chrome in each of the 136 rooms — think hanging bubble chairs and even a round bed, in one quirky suite. It feels somewhat like arriving at the beloved TWA Hotel in New York , although there’s only a smattering of red decor here.

Rooms start at 300 square feet (The Classic) and extend up to 975 square feet (The Apartment Suite, which is equipped with a kitchen, spacious living area, and terrace), and all boast dreamy goose-down duvets encased in sumptuous linens and topped off with fluffy feather pillows. You’ll find plenty of business and leisure travelers here, either fitting in a workout in the 17th floor's sunlit fitness center, or tucking into escargot at Le Boulevardier, their French bistro restaurant.

• Neighborhood : Downtown Montreal
• Distance From Airport: 6 miles
• Nearby Attractions : The McCord Museum, Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Mount Royal Park
• Parking : Public parking nearby, CAD $40 per day
• Rates : Start at $243

Book directly through the hotel to access 24-hour checkout, so you can enjoy your room however long you’d like on your departure day — ideal for those with late flights out of town.

Hotel Monville

Sleek, sparsely furnished rooms and high-tech amenities are ideal for business travelers.

Self-service kiosks at check-in and robot butlers may feel a little too futuristic for some — but you can still expect plenty of human interaction and kindness from the helpful concierges.

Stepping into the expansive double-height lobby at this Downtown property might make you do a double take. Massive columns rise above the black-and-white space, which is adorned with large-scale photographs of the city by Canadian musician and filmmaker Valerie Jodoin Keaton. The feeling is distinctly modern, with oak paneling that keeps the space feeling warm and inviting. For your convenience, you can easily check in via a self-service kiosk, and robot butlers are available to drop off room service — although a friendly team of staff members is always around to help, if that’s more your speed.

269 rooms offer ultra-sleek accommodations, with enormous windows allowing in plenty of light. The entry-level Standard room is a cozy 210-square-feet, so business travelers planning to work from their rooms will want to spring for a larger suite, which offers up to 378-square-feet of space and seemingly endless windows. There’s also a lounge that functions as a coworking space during the day, and a fantastic, colorful rooftop terrace where you can sit and sip a cocktail with views over the city. 

• Neighborhood : Downtown
• Nearby Attractions : Notre-Dame Basilica, Christ Church Cathedral, Bell Center 
• Accessibility : Suite
• Parking : Paid valet parking, $38 CAD per day
• Loyalty Programs : I Prefer
• Rates : Start at $162

Montreal Marriott Chateau Champlain

The unique arched windows frame picture-perfect views of the city from the center of Downtown.

None of the rooms offer outdoor space, such as a terrace or balcony.

Named after Samuel de Champlain, the founder of Quebec City, the Marriott Chateau Champlain was initially constructed ahead of Expo 67 to house the influx of visitors coming for the world's fair. The facade of this 40-story tower is striking from any angle, with arched windows peering out over the city like hundreds of eyes (or, as it’s locally nicknamed, like a cheese grater). The windows frame postcard-worthy views from inside each of the whopping 596 guestrooms, which are elegant and streamlined. While entry-level rooms begin at a generous 312 square feet, those seeking more space can splurge on the truly palatial 2,184-square-foot Presidential Suite, a two-bed, three-bath residence complete with M Club Lounge access, an electric fireplace, crystal chandeliers, and more.

The hotel is particularly well suited to business travelers, first-time visitors, and anyone who appreciates the reliable comforts (and loyalty perks) of staying at a Marriott property. It’s perfectly located for shopping and sightseeing, and what’s more, the hotel is also connected to the metro system, making it easy to navigate further afield if you’re looking to explore a more local side of the city. 

• Neighborhood : Downtown 
• Distance From Airport: 8.6 miles
• Nearby Attractions : Clock Tower Beach, Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Place des Arts
• Parking : Yes, $32 CAD per day

Hotel Gault

The open-concept bathrooms all feature heated floors, which are a game changer during winter visits.

Upgrading to a suite here lands you nearly double the space (plus incredible natural light and a dedicated workspace).

Housed in a beautiful 19th-century Haussmanian greystone building, Hotel Gault turns out to be delightfully contemporary once you step through its doors. There are 30 suites, including three airy lofts and two rooms with spacious terraces, all equipped with fluffy beds by Flou and luxe Italian linens from Casa Rovea. Heated floors in all the bathrooms are a welcome touch during chilly Montreal winters.

Rooms range in size from 350 to 1,020 square feet, and upgrading to a suite (like the superbly sunny Corner Suite) offers significantly more space for a rather slight difference in rate. Walls are left mostly blank, and furnishings are minimal — think brightly colored rugs, a TV, and a sitting area — so business travelers will find it particularly easy to concentrate without any excess clutter. 

• Nearby Attractions : Lafontaine Park, Museum of Contemporary Art, Bota Bota Spa Sur l’Eau
• Accessibility : Wheelchair accessible, one reduced mobility room 
• Parking : Paid private parking, $42 CAD per day
• Rates : Start at $278

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth

Stephane Brugger / Accor Hotels

This family- and pet-friendly hotel is connected to The Underground City, offering easy access to a labyrinth of shops, restaurants, and walkways connecting Montreal.

The large property sees a lot of foot traffic, given its prime location — if you’re looking for a tranquil place to retreat from the city’s bustle, consider one of the boutique options on this list instead.

Spanning a full city block, this behemoth 950-room property got a mega-cool redesign in 2017 by hip agency Sid Lee, who breathed fresh life into the ‘60s design. A glamorous, expansive lobby welcomes you in, with a trendy and perpetually busy lounge area featuring eggshell chairs and other design nods to the hotel’s history.

If you recognize the hotel’s name, that is likely because it was the site of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s famous Bed-In — an experience you’re welcome to recreate in Suite 1742. Heading on a girl’s trip? Book the over-the-top Barbie Dream suite, a pink palace that’s equal parts playful and glamorous. Otherwise, the renovated Fairmont Rooms feature slate blue walls, abstract works of art, Le Labo toiletries, and poofy beds that you sink into immediately.

• Distance From Airport: 10.5 miles
• Nearby Attractions : Place des Arts, Clock Tower Beach, Grevin Museum Montreal
• Accessibility : Across room categories 
• Parking : Valet parking, $39 CAD per day
• Loyalty Programs : ALL (Accor Live Limitless)
• Rates : Start at $261

Know Before You Go

French is the primary language in montreal, with english as a close second.

French is the only official language recognized in Quebec, where most people learn it as their mother tongue. Throughout the province, many people learn English as well, with Montreal specifically operating as a bilingual hub where the majority of people learn English at a young age. While you will likely be able to communicate easily in English throughout your time there — particularly when interacting with folks in the hospitality industry — it never hurts to brush up on a few key French phrases before your trip.

Montreal is walkable and has a great public transportation system

Be sure to pack your walking shoes — Montreal is a city you’ll often traverse on foot, particularly if you’re taking in the sites centralized around your hotel in the Downtown area or Old Montreal. Note that the city is hilly, so you’ll want to take care to bring shoes with good traction, particularly in winter when roads get snowy and slick.

If you’re heading to explore in Plateau or Mile End, you can always hop on the bus or metro, both of which have extensive, reliable networks and are easy to navigate.

It gets extremely cold in the winter

Montreal’s winter weather is no joke — temperatures hover around 16 degrees Fahrenheit in January, which is the coldest month of the year there. At night, it can dip down to well below freezing, with temperatures hitting -22 degrees Fahrenheit. But if you dress accordingly, you’ll still be able to enjoy all that this winter wonderland has to offer — thanks in no small part to The Underground City, a massive network of heated pedestrian walkways that allow you to get around while avoiding the winter air.

For any winter trip, waterproof and insulated winter boots are non-negotiable — as are a warm jacket, plus a hat and gloves. Once you’re appropriately layered up, be sure to also check out Domaine de la Forêt Perdue , a maze of ice-skating trails through a wooded park just outside Downtown.

Get outside of the Old City

Montreal’s famed Golden Square Mile is home to many of the city’s best luxury hotels, given its superlative location in the center of everything. Here, you’ll be close to Downtown, Old Montreal, and a stroll along the Saint-Laurent River. The architecture is charming and Victorian, and there are certainly enough shops, landmarks, and restaurants to keep you here for an entire trip — but it’s worth hopping on the metro to explore beyond the main tourist drag, too. For third-wave coffee shops, vintage shopping, natural wine bars, and more, head to hip alcoves like Plateau, Mile End, or Griffintown, which are a delight to wander around and boast plenty of delicious restaurants as well.

How We Chose These Hotels

Montreal is home to a vibrant hotel scene, with hundreds of properties to choose from that range from playful ‘60s-themed boutique hotels to enormous cultural hubs spanning full city blocks from big-name luxury brands.

Narrowing down the top hotels in the city is a difficult task — we started by highlighting the properties which thousands of T+L readers have voted as their favorites in our annual World’s Best Awards in recent years.

In addition to including those award-winning properties, T+L contributor Sophie Dodd relied on her expertise as a travel writer specializing in luxury and boutique hotels in order to research and review a handful of hotels that came highly recommended by fellow editors. She also included properties she’s personally visited during trips to Montreal, where she’s stayed in various neighborhoods over the years.

The properties included here reflect top-tier guest experience from check-in to checkout, as well as strong aesthetic appeal, superlative comfort, and excellent concierge services. Sophie also prioritized hotels with accessible rooms, sustainable programs, and luxurious amenities like spas, pools, and fitness centers.

And finally, as with all our hotel roundups, editors ensure all hotel recommendations we make align with our core T+L Hotel Values .

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Read Your Way Through Montreal

Montreal is a city as appealing for its beauty as for its shadows. Here, the novelist Mona Awad recommends books that are “both dreamy and uncompromising.”

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By Mona Awad

Read Your Way Around the World is a series exploring the globe through books.

Montreal is an island unto itself. An architect’s paradise. A foodie’s dream, where a pastry will make you weep. It’s a city of extremes. The grandiose maximalism of Cirque du Soleil and Arcade Fire. The gritty punk scene and the thriving diner (casse-croûte) culture. Hot bacchanalian summers that never sleep, and cold brooding winters that draw you underground and inward. Perhaps that’s why it’s also a city of great style.

It’s where I grew up and when we had to move I never thought I would get over leaving. In many ways, I haven’t. It’s still, after all these years, the city of my heart. Playful, sexy, strangely celebratory and, above all, beautiful. Strolling through the city’s iconic neighborhoods — the Plateau, Mile End or Old Montreal to name a few — you see it everywhere you look: the impulse toward aesthetic pleasures, visual harmony. That desire to make everything, be it a bagel or a bookstore, a celebration of itself.

But there is, of course, a dark side to every great city. The literature of Montreal is both dreamy and uncompromising in its depths. It aspires to beauty, but it never forgets its shadows. There, the Wildean axiom “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars” is viscerally felt — and it’s a sentiment that pulses through the cultural blood of the city.

What should I read before I pack my bags?

Many classics of Montreal literature evoke place through a multitude of colorful local characters. “The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz,” by Mordecai Richler, is a quintessential comic Montreal novel of the late 1950s (also try his last novel, “Barney’s Version” ). “The Favorite Game,” by Leonard Cohen, is his autofictional exploration of growing up as a young Jewish boy (try also his collection of poems “The Spice-Box of Earth” ). Short story master Mavis Gallant’s “Varieties of Exile” was originally titled “Montreal Stories ” in Canada for good reason. Consider also Gabrielle Roy’s “The Tin Flute” and Michel Tremblay’s “The Fat Woman Next Door Is Pregnant,” both empathetic portrayals of working class life among French speakers. “How to Make Love to a Negro Without Getting Tired,” by Dany Laferrière, is another ground breaking exploration of Montreal life from the perspective of a Haitian immigrant.

For a little mystery, try Louise Penny’s popular “Three Pines” detective series . Though set in a fictional town in Quebec, her novels often feature Montreal (“ Glass Houses ” in particular.) Kathy Reichs unearths the bones of the city in her thriller “Déjà Dead.” And Montreal’s rich queer culture is captured in the coming-of-age novels “The Geography of Pluto,” by Christopher DiRaddo, and “Bottle Rocket Hearts,” by Zoe Whittall.

Perhaps nothing will get you more excited to travel to Montreal than the dazzling work of Heather O’Neill. In novels like “Lullabies for Little Criminals” and “The Lonely Hearts Hotel,” O’Neill captures both the darkness and the dreaminess of the city in shimmering colors. O’Neill’s latest, “When We Lost Our Heads,” is a dizzying confection, offering a 19th-century glimpse of Montreal’s Golden Square Mile neighborhood with a sharp eye.

What stories provide a glimpse into modern Montreal?

Among more contemporary books, there is an abundance of literary gems: “Our Lady of Mile End,” by Sarah Gilbert, a collection of short stories set in the neighborhood of the same name; “Ru,” by Kim Thúy, a gorgeous Vietnamese immigrant story woven out of poignant vignettes; and “The Wagers, ” by Sean Michaels, which evokes both the quotidian and magical elements of the city.

What books will take me behind closed doors?

A host of brilliant Montreal novels both evoke place and showcase the underbelly experiences of those who, for any number of reasons, live in the margins. In the vitriolic symphony that is “Cockroach,” by Rawi Hage, a struggling Lebanese immigrant imagines himself to be a literal cockroach. “Bone and Bread,” by Saleema Nawaz, explores the tumultuous lives of two orphaned sisters who grew up in a Hasidic community in Mile End. For a dark depiction of the working life (and Montreal loves a dark depiction of the working life), consider “The Dishwasher,” by Stéphane Larue, which was adapted into a film, or the fiery and incantatory “Whore,” by Nelly Arcan.

What literary landmarks and bookstores should I visit?

Librairie Drawn & Quarterly is a beautiful independent bookshop in the heart of Montreal’s Plateau area. It’s also an internationally renowned publisher of comics, including work by Kate Beaton, Adrian Tomine, Lynda Barry and Chester Brown, among many others. The bookstore’s idiosyncratically curated selection of titles and its gorgeous and singular interior make this a must-see. Other lovely English-language bookshops to visit along the way: Librairie Saint-Henri Books , Argo Bookshop (Montreal’s oldest indie), The Word .

Any restaurants I should visit?

In a gastronome’s playground like Montreal, it would be remiss of me not to mention some food stops. As the daughter of a woman who worked in Montreal delis for nearly all of the ’80s, I’m perhaps biased in putting forth that a smoked meat sandwich is its own quintessential experience of the city. I’d recommend Schwartz’s Deli , an institution unto itself that is approaching its centennial. There’s also Moishes Steakhouse , an institution frequented, in its heyday, by none other than Leonard Cohen (presumably before he became a vegetarian).

And nothing evokes Montreal for me (and many other Montrealers) quite like a bagel fresh from the fire. St-Viateur Bagel , located in the historic Mile End neighborhood (and featured in “The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz” ), has been “defining the art of bagel making since 1957,” according to its website. To eat one of their bagels just out of the wood-burning oven is to taste my childhood. But even if it’s not a Proust’s madeleine for you, the baked good — like Montreal itself — is well worth the voyage.

Mona Awad’s Montreal Reading List

“The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz” and “Barney’s Version,” Mordecai Richler

“The Favorite Game” and “The Spice-Box of Earth,” Leonard Cohen

“Varieties of Exile,” Mavis Gallant

“The Tin Flute,” Gabrielle Roy

“The Fat Woman Next Door Is Pregnant,” Michel Tremblay

“How to Make Love to a Negro Without Getting Tired,” Dany Laferrière

“Three Pines” series (including “Glass Houses” ), Louise Penny

“Déjà Dead,” Kathy Reichs

“The Geography of Pluto,” Christopher DiRaddo

“Bottle Rocket Hearts,” Zoe Whittall

“Lullabies for Little Criminals,” “The Lonely Hearts Hotel” and “When We Lost Our Heads,” Heather O’Neill

“Our Lady of Mile End,” Sarah Gilbert

“Ru,” Kim Thúy

“The Wagers,” Sean Michaels

“Cockroach,” Rawi Hage

“Bone and Bread,” Saleema Nawaz

“The Dishwasher,” Stéphane Larue

“Whore,” Nelly Arcan

Mona Awad is the author of several novels, including “ Bunny ” and, most recently, “ Rouge ,” which is set partially in Montreal.

Explore More in Books

Want to know about the best books to read and the latest news start here..

The complicated, generous life  of Paul Auster, who died on April 30 , yielded a body of work of staggering scope and variety .

“Real Americans,” a new novel by Rachel Khong , follows three generations of Chinese Americans as they all fight for self-determination in their own way .

“The Chocolate War,” published 50 years ago, became one of the most challenged books in the United States. Its author, Robert Cormier, spent years fighting attempts to ban it .

Joan Didion’s distinctive prose and sharp eye were tuned to an outsider’s frequency, telling us about ourselves in essays that are almost reflexively skeptical. Here are her essential works .

Each week, top authors and critics join the Book Review’s podcast to talk about the latest news in the literary world. Listen here .

Montreal Jazz Festival a treat for music fans of multiple genres — and a bargain, with 150-plus free concerts

Held in Quebec’s very walkable largest city, this eclectic annual music marathon has concerts from 5 p.m. to midnight, leaving days free to explore Montreal’s engaging mix of old and new

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Parlez-vous free jazz?

In almost any other French-language city in the world, this inquiry would translate as: “Do you speak cutting-edge jazz?” But at Canada’s 44-year-old Festival International de Jazz de Montreal — better known as the Montreal Jazz Festival — the question is deceptive in several ways.

A majority of the performances at this 10-day summer music marathon in the French-speaking province of Quebec’s largest city are completely free of charge. And while the 2024 lineup will feature such jazz favorites as pianist Jason Moran and saxophonists Joshua Redman, Chris Potter and Melissa Aldana, it will also showcase a broad array of other styles.

This year’s roster includes everyone from synth-pop group Future Islands, San Diego neo-soul band Thee Sacred Souls and the proudly arch country singer Orville Peck to blues veteran Cedric Burnside, eclectic songstress Norah Jones and such hip-hop favorites as Andre 3000, Killer Mike and Freddie Gibbs.

Better yet, more than two-thirds of the 225-plus concerts at this year’s edition — which runs June 27 through July 6 — are free. Performances are held on six outdoor stages and at 10 indoor venues, which range from intimate nightclubs to historic theaters and the concert home of the Montreal Symphony.

The festival’s eight hours of daily live-music offerings begin at 5 p.m. each day. That gives festivalgoers ample time during the day to explore this 382-year-old island city, which offers the foreign and the familiar in almost equal measure.

“Montreal is wonderful and very cosmopolitan,” said San Diego Symphony Music Director Rafael Payare, who is also the music director of the Montreal Symphony. “When you are here, you feel like one part of you is in North America and the other part of you is in Europe.”

True to Payare’s words, you don’t have to stroll far from the jazz festival’s footprint in the downtown area known as Quartier des Spectacles to appreciate this pleasant sense of continent-leaping duality.

On the two-mile walk from the beautiful midcentury Place des Arts — where the festival’s biggest indoor and outdoor concerts are held — to Old Port Montreal, the pavement gives way to cobblestone streets and high rises give way to well-preserved buildings from bygone centuries.

“Montreal is a great walking city and many of the festival’s indoor concerts take place in historic venues,” said Vermont jazz radio DJ and Realtor David Beckett, a longtime attendee of the festival.

“Le Gesù, which has been a theater for live performances since 1992, is in a Catholic church that opened in 1865. École nationale de théâtre du Canada, also known as National Monument, opened in 1893 and is the oldest theater in Quebec. Edith Piaf once sang there! Simply by going to concerts in these venues where the festival is held, you get to experience some of Montreal’s most memorable arts venues.”

A turn at almost any corner is likely to lead to a welcome new discovery, be it a 21-story-tall, 10,000-square-foot mural of Montreal native Leonard Cohen — modeled after a photo taken by his daughter, Lorca — or a French-Chinese restaurant with the quaint name Fondue de Pékin.

Adding to the European flavor, French is the official language in Quebec, the province that counts Montreal as its biggest city. Our French is limited to about a dozen words, but almost everyone we encountered in Montreal spoke English. The menus in nearly every restaurant we ate at were in both French and English.

‘Plexes,’ bagels and poutine

Some of the city’s signature hallmarks aren’t necessarily European or Canadian, but unique to Montreal. Its iconic wrought-iron staircases grace many apartment buildings (which are called “plexes”).

There are more than 30,000 of them around the city and they vary in shape and size — straight, spiral, L-shaped and a variety of other configurations. While the prospect of navigating some of these staircases during Montreal’s icy winters is alarming to visitors, they are a sight to behold in the summer.

Another classic trademark of the city is poutine — French fries topped with fresh cheese curds, covered in thick, brown gravy. Generally considered a Canadian dish, it originated in rural Quebec in the mid-1900s and arrived in Montreal about a decade later. Poutine is available in many restaurants in Montreal, from diners to high-end eateries. Most boast their own versions, including with smoked meat, dumplings, popcorn, pulled pork and more.

Montreal is also proud of its bagels, with the competing St-Viateur and Fairmount shops ranking as favorites for locals and visitors alike. Montreal bagels stand out because they’re boiled in honey and water, then baked in wood-fired ovens, for a sweeter taste and crunchier texture. The St-Viateur bagel shop is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It serves over 12,000 bagels a day.

“There’s always a heated competition between New York and Montreal about who has the best bagels,” noted Payare, who is no stranger to either city. “I would say it’s Montreal.”

From William Shatner to Samantha Bee

During the summer, swaths of streets in several neighborhoods become car-free “pedestrianized zones,” including through the festival’s center in Quartier des Spectacles.

Adding to pedestrian options is the almost 20-mile network of underground passageways, which are open year-round but were built to help residents escape — at least temporarily — the brutal winter cold. The passageways are filled with shops, restaurants and some eye-popping artwork.

On our first day in Montreal late last June, we wandered around the lovely campus of McGill University. Located about two miles from the festival site, the campus is on the lower part of Mont Royal, from which the English name Montreal originates. Mont Royal is home to a verdant, 692-acre park designed by Frederick Law, whose best-known credit is New York City’s Central Park.

While briefly tagging along with a student tour group, we learned that some of McGill’s most well-known alumni include Leonard Cohen, Burt Bacharach, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, William Shatner, architect Moshe Safdie and comedian Samantha Bee.

McGill’s 80-plus buildings sit on 80 acres overlooking downtown Montreal and the St. Lawrence River. Its classical revival-style Arts Building, completed in 1843, is the oldest on campus. In summer, the school’s front lawn area is brimming with colorful flowers, and greenery fills much of the pedestrian/cyclist-friendly campus.

The next day, we walked down Rue de Bleury from the festival site through Old Montreal to the Old Port, which stretches more than a mile along the St. Lawrence River. It’s ideal for pedestrians and bicyclists, and you can also rent pedal-boats, try a zipline or embark on various river cruises.

Between the river and the nearby historic clock tower — a replica of Big Ben — is a beach with sand, parasols and room for 800 people. Also at the Old Port is an almost 200-foot-high Grande Roue de Montreal Ferris wheel, which — thanks to its temperature-controlled cabins — is open year-round. It provides spectacular views of Montreal.

While we walked between 11,000 and 19,000 steps a day during our visit, we were glad we bought a one-week Metro pass. Priced at $22 per person — credit cards only, cash not accepted — it gave us unlimited rides on all four subway lines. Passes in hand, we rode to multiple destinations miles from downtown, then walked at our leisure.

One day, we visited the Montreal borough of Verdun. It’s home to the Promenade Wellington, a pedestrian promenade that stretches 11 blocks and boasts more than 250 hipster-friendly businesses, including an array of bars, dining spots, cafes, ice cream parlors and more. Voted “the coolest street in the world” by TimeOut magazine in 2022, Promenade Wellington is packed on Saturdays and Sundays, so come on a weekday if you want to avoid crowds.

The next day we took a different subway line to Montreal Botanical Garden, which covers more than 185 acres and boasts 10 greenhouses open to the public. Located adjacent to Olympic Village and Montreal’s Biodome, Biosphere and Planetarium, it also has an herbarium and an insectarium. Highlights include Chinese, Japanese and First Nations gardens, as well as a rock garden arranged by geographic regions. All-day tickets cost $23.25 for adults and $12 for children ages 5 to 17.

On another day, we took the subway to the last Metro station on the green line to Parc Angrignon, which was recommended to us by a local journalist for its beauty, lack of tourists and free admission. A lush oasis of quiet in the midst of a metropolis, the 240-acre park includes ponds, picnic tables, multiple bike and walking paths, and playgrounds. We also stumbled upon a hidden tipi in a dense part of the park’s forest area.

Each day after an early dinner, we enjoyed music outdoors and indoors, including a free performance by an ear-bending orchestra of 100 electric guitarists. They performed in the center of Complexe Desjardins, the sprawling indoor shopping mall that adjoins the DoubleTree by Hilton, where we stayed for 10 days.

The mall houses a large food court with a good array of options. Its strong air conditioning was appealing for quick respites when the temperature outside hit the mid-80s, as it did several days in a row during our visit. On one especially hot and muggy day, we were taken aback when — in a matter of minutes — the broiling sun gave way to rain and then a brief but intense hailstorm.

Walking from one outdoor festival stage to another to hear free performances by such standout artists as blues guitar titan Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and soulful singer Macy Gray, we were impressed by the geniality of the multigenerational throngs of people. And we were reminded of San Diego Street Scene — when it was held on the streets of the Gaslamp Quarter in the 1980s and 1990s — with new musical discoveries awaiting around almost every corner.

San Diego Street Scene vibe

That expansive size helps explain why annual attendance at the Montreal festival is around 2 million, which comes out to 100,000 attendees a day. But with the event’s array of intimate indoor venues, it’s easy to avoid sprawling crowds altogether if you want. By opting for both — big and small, outdoors and in — we enjoyed the best of both worlds in a city where old and new repeatedly converge.

Montreal Jazz Festival

The 2024 edition of the festival opens June 27 and concludes July 6. More than two-thirds of the event’s 225-plus concerts are free. The full schedule and tickets are available at montrealjazzfest.com/en .

Transportation

Several airlines offer round-trip lights from San Diego to Montreal, but Air Canada is the only one with nonstop service. Depending on your departure time and day, economy fares begin at around $789 for a round-trip ticket.

We chose the DoubleTree by Hilton Montreal for proximity — it directly overlooks the festival’s two largest outdoor stages and has a sizable indoor pool. Rooms on the opposite side from the festival are quiet, but the ones facing the two stages provide a bird’s-eye view. So does the patio by the pool and the popular Bivouac Terrace restaurant and bar. The hotel’s generous breakfast buffet package, included with our room rate, was a nice bonus. The DoubleTree is located at 1255 Rue Jeanne-Mance. Rates for June and July visits during the festival start at $289 per night, (514) 285-1450; bit.ly/HiltonDoubletreeMontreal

Restaurants

Dining in Montreal is a foodie’s dream come true, from sidewalk bistros and bagel bakeries to high-end eateries. These are three of our personal favorites and each offers outdoor dining:

• The Restaurant Les Pyrénées and Gourmet Shop: Located on the picturesque Rue Saint-Paul, Montreal’s oldest street, this charming eatery specializes in French, Spanish, Basque and Catalonian dishes. The plancha-style calamari (cut in the shape of a flower) and the vegetarian paella were both delicately seasoned and beautifully arranged. 320 Rue Saint-Paul, Montreal, (514) 842-5566; bit.ly/RestaurantPyrenees
• Chez Dévi: Not far from the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and Bell Centre Arena, Chez Dévi offers delicious traditional and contemporary Indian food in a New Delhi-like atmosphere. The naan was hot and fresh; the aloo gobi and spicy makhani were perfection. 1450 Crescent St., Montreal, (514) 286-0303; devimontreal.com
• NYK’S Bistro Pub: Right in the Quartier des Spectacles, where the festival is located, this cozy but lively eatery serves European fare and its own creative dishes. The mushroom bruschetta appetizer was a great prelude to the mushroom pappardelle and the just-right fish and chips. 1250 Rue de Bleury; (514) 866-1787; nyks.ca

Wood is a freelance writer ; Varga is the music critic for The San Diego Union-Tribune.

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8 replies to this topic

Worst time will be around dusk but usually only if you’re sitting on my deck… lol

Walking around the city you will be fine.. they can be bothersome sitting on a patio in the evening especially if you are near water or in a park etc…I wouldn’t worry too much about it though.

I've never noticed them to be bad in the cities. Camping is a different story.

Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. I am a mosquito magnet and suffer with all the symptoms of bites for weeks on end....but really want to visit the French part of Canada! Alas, I will have to avoid cocktails on your deck! :-)

Don't worry about it too much in the city! Especially the downtown core. If you're a mosquito magnet bring some bug spray just in case you're in an area with more bugs like down by the water.

Thank you, that’s reassuring. I’ll definitely bring spray, but I just didn’t know if it’s so intense in the city at that time that I’d be overcome by them.

Mosquitoes tend to be less prevalent in urban areas. Rural areas is where they thrive.

Very good to hear this. I’m so grateful for these replies. I truly can’t wait to come visit this region in Canada and so far the responses are encouraging. I will absolutely bring my bug repellent and hope that that will be enough. 🙏🏻

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10 Travel ‘Dupe’ Destinations That Will Save You Money on Your Next Trip

Posted: December 12, 2023 | Last updated: December 12, 2023

Amid high inflation, the trend of searching for "dupes" -- duplicates of higher-end items -- has risen in popularity. This extends to everything from beauty products to designer goods to even vacation destinations . "Dupe" destinations can save travelers big money versus vacationing in a hotspot.

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"In 2024, Americans are more likely to choose hidden-gem destinations over tried-and-true tourist hotspots for their vacations," Jon Gieselman, president of Expedia Brands, told CNBC .

If you're planning ahead for travel in the new year, consider one of these travel "dupe" destinations to save serious cash .

Instead of Bali, Indonesia, Visit Lombok, Indonesia

Travelers looking for beautiful beaches and stunning natural surroundings have flocked to Bali -- but this destination can get very expensive.

"Most people travel to Bali when visiting Indonesia [at] an average of $1,000 for a week's trip," said Alexandra Dubakova, travel expert and head of marketing at FreeTour.com . "Lombok is a great alternative that offers the same vibrant culture, attractive beaches and hiking trails, and [it] costs around $600 for a week's visit."

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Instead of New York, Visit Montreal

Those looking for a city destination should skip NYC and head farther north.

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Instead of Paris, Visit Lisbon, Portugal

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"Paris, the City of Love, is a great choice but [it's] expensive," Dubakova said. "It costs around $2,000 to visit Pairs for a week, [while] Lisbon costs $1,200 and offers the same romantic aura and architectural beauty."

Instead of Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Visit Zanzibar, Tanzania

Planning a honeymoon for 2024? Consider Zanzibar for an affordable destination.

"Bora Bora is renowned for its luxurious overwater bungalows and stunning blue waters," said Jim Campbell, CEO of Honeymoons.com . "Zanzibar offers a similar paradise with beautiful beaches, rich cultural history and exotic wildlife. The cost of a trip to Zanzibar can be up to 50% less than a trip to Bora Bora, making it an excellent choice for a romantic and adventurous honeymoon."

Instead of Venice, Italy, Visit Ljubljana, Slovenia

Avoid the crowds -- and the hefty price tags -- by opting for Ljubljana over Venice.

"Venice is famous for its canals, historic architecture and romantic ambiance. Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, offers a similar charm with its picturesque waterways, vibrant cultural scene and less crowded streets," Campbell said. "Traveling to Ljubljana instead of Venice can save you about 30-40% on accommodation and dining."

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Instead of Dubrovnik, Croatia, Visit Cavtat, Croatia

If Croatia is on your travel list, consider booking a trip to Cavtat over the more popular Dubrovnik.

"Though not as publicized as Dubrovnik, Cavtat is an excellent alternative to this now overpriced Croatian destination," said Danielle Rudic, director of marketing at Travelive , a luxury destination management company. "You can find both four- and five-star properties, great traditional taverns [and a] more traditional feel, and you will not have to elbow through rivers of tourists holding a selfie-stick as you would in Dubrovnik."

Hotels in Cavtat are $150 to $300 cheaper per night, and Dubrovnik is just a 20-minute drive away. "This price difference is also noticeable in restaurants and bars," Rudic said. "On average, you can expect to pay 30% less."

Instead of Kyoto, Japan, Visit Hoi An, Vietnam

Kyoto is a popular Asian destination, but you'll find much better prices elsewhere.

"Kyoto is famous for its historic temples, gardens and traditional teahouses. However, a trip here can be quite costly, with hotels averaging $120 per night and meals around $30 per person," said Augustinas Milaknis, head of PR at Ratepunk , a travel booking app.

"Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam, is a delightful alternative with its well-preserved Ancient Town, lantern-lit streets and rich history," he said. "Accommodations in Hoi An can be as low as $50 per night, and a delicious meal can cost around $15 per person."

Instead of Napa, California, Visit Sonoma, California

Even though these two wine country destinations are located close by, the prices can be worlds apart.

"They're comparable due to them literally being right next door to each other and offering many of the same amenities," said Jared Benoff, founder of Vacationeeze , a family-owned travel agency.

"You have to look a little closer to see some key differences between the two charming regions," he said. "For example, the Bardessono in Yountville, Napa will be approximately $1,500 per night while the Madrona, recently named one of the best in the world by Travel + Leisure, will be about $690 per night. People visiting Sonoma will also find generally more affordable wine-tasting fees and dining options."

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Montreal prepares for 'Messi Mania' as Inter Miami visits Canada

Argentina's 8-time ballon d'or winner will make first professional visit to canada.

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Just the thought that he may come face to face with Lionel Messi has CF Montreal captain Samuel Piette pinching himself.

Piette grew up watching the man many consider the greatest footballer ever dash down the wing and toy with defenders at FC Barcelona.

On Saturday, the global icon will make his first professional trip to Canada as Montreal plays host to Messi's Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer action at Stade Saputo.

The 29-year-old Piette has faced his fair share of top talent in his professional and international career, but Messi "is a different beast."

"He's from a different planet," Piette said Friday. "To have the chance to face him where he's still performing, it's unbelievable.

"Messi is for me the greatest of all time, the GOAT."

Messi's achievements are unmatched in the game of soccer. The Argentine superstar is an eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient as the best player in the world and a four-time Champions League winner. He also led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022.

At 36 years old, he's hardly done.

Messi took the North American soccer scene by storm when he left Europe to join Miami last season. This year, he has 10 goals and 12 assists through just eight league games — on pace to smash the league records in both categories.

MESSI IS A CHEAT CODE 🐐<br><br>▪️ Record for assists in a game (5) <br>▪️ Record for goal contributions in a game (6)<br>▪️ And he did it all in the second half <a href="https://t.co/Zc3g5fjakf">pic.twitter.com/Zc3g5fjakf</a> &mdash; @MLS

Montreal head coach Laurent Courtois, a former player in Europe, is hoping to have better luck against Messi from the touchline.

"I played him myself in his prime over in Spain and he embarrassed me," Courtois said.

Having experienced humiliation first-hand, Courtois has a message for his players.

"You want to show now that you can compete against those guys," Courtois said. "You have the poster in your bedroom, but you also want to be close to showing them that you belong here.

"If we can step on the field together, and my guys show him that we have a collective and not just a few individuals, I would be the happiest man."

That, however, is a tall task.

Miami, with a juggernaut squad comprised of former Barcelona stars, arrives in Montreal with the league's best record (7-2-3) after Messi produced one goal and a jaw-dropping five assists in last Saturday's 6-2 win over New York Red Bulls.

Fellow superstar Luis Suarez had a hat trick in the match to tie Messi for the league lead.

The best number 9️⃣ of the century ✨ <a href="https://t.co/dfb7hwcM7c">pic.twitter.com/dfb7hwcM7c</a> &mdash; @InterMiamiCF

Meanwhile, injury-riddled Montreal (3-4-3) has dropped points in three straight MLS games and given up the most goals in the Eastern Conference.

The club is also in turmoil after parting ways with sporting officer Olivier Renard on Thursday less than two weeks after news surfaced that team MVP Mathieu Choiniere requested a trade amid a contract dispute.

Montreal is coming off a 1-1 draw with Forge FC of the lower-tier Canadian Premier League in a Canadian Championship match Tuesday after falling 4-1 to a struggling Nashville SC side in MLS play last week.

Courtois's men defeated Miami 3-2 on the road on March 10 amid a hot start to the season, but Messi didn't take the pitch.

<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TBT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TBT</a> à notre dernier match contre Miami 🔙<br><br>Throwback to the last time we played <a href="https://twitter.com/InterMiamiCF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InterMiamiCF</a> ⚽️⚽️⚽️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFMTL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CFMTL</a> <a href="https://t.co/kIAjMpwoME">pic.twitter.com/kIAjMpwoME</a> &mdash; @cfmontreal

Messi is expected to feature in some capacity Saturday. As much as Piette might be star-struck, he's still focused on coming up with three points against Miami once more.

"I got a job to do tomorrow. I want people to say that I did a good job in the game and against Messi," Piette said. "I'm not saying I'm going to be perfect because I don't expect to be perfect against the greatest of all time. But yeah, I'll definitely do my best."

'Strategic divergences'

CF Montreal president Gabriel Gervais reiterated Friday that the club and Renard mutually agreed to part ways, citing recent "strategic divergences" between the two parties.

"There was a lack of consensus in certain decisions," Gervais said. "It's really in the recent times that there have been differences on that side."

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Gervais also laid out the team's line of authority amid widespread speculation that team owner Joey Saputo is meddling in soccer decisions.

"I'm in charge, I'm the president, ultimately I'm accountable for all decisions. Is that clear?" Gervais said. "And then when it comes to making strategic decisions, we have our board — our owners — that we meet frequently, that we present strategic decisions, so that's the chain of command. Ultimately, I'm accountable."

Renard joined Montreal as sporting director in 2019 and Montreal posted its finest MLS regular season in 2022 with a 20-9-5 record, good for second place in the Eastern Conference.

The 44-year-old is credited for his work in developing players at Montreal and selling them for substantial fees, such as Ismael Kone, Alistair Johnston and Djordje Mihailovic. He also made significant moves this off-season by adding former MLS MVP Josef Martinez and striker Matias Coccaro.

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