visit montreal plateau

18 places you can’t miss in Plateau Mont-Royal, Montreal

N o longer just the “most European city of North America,” Montreal is home to many thriving neighbourhoods – including Plateau Mont-Royal – that are just waiting to be discovered by visitors who’d like something other than the usual sights of Old Montreal.

Just north of downtown Montreal, it sprawls from the edge of the emblematic mountain to the colourful, picturesque tree-lined streets that have taken over every Montrealer’s Instagram feed.

Often regarded as one of the hippest, prettiest and overall most fun areas of the city, Plateau Mont-Royal has plenty of photogenic staircases, tastefully decorated eateries, passionate residents, and heaps of charm.

+ montreal travel tips

Montreal in winter isn’t as bad as you think, scout the colourful murals.

Plateau Mont-Royal is home to some of Montreal’s most striking frescoes, notably as part of the well-respected Mural Festival . Only in Montreal could you host an event where people are encouraged to literally paint the town. The 10-day affair is largely based in the vicinity of Saint-Laurent Boulevard and features free outdoor concerts, an art fair and guided tours.

That is in addition to the dozens of occasional commissioned works by local artists across the neighbourhood as well. Definitely something for your Instagram stories!

Book a Plateau Mont-Royal & Mile End food tour

Montreal is frequently cited as one of the most inventive, seductive places in North America as far as gastronomy is concerned, among other things. And its supporters aren’t wrong; Montrealers are a demanding hungry bunch and they will not settle for anything ordinary. Waves upon waves of immigration — from Jewish to Portuguese to Japanese — have brought invaluable traditions to the city for a truly diverse, complex heritage that has now become the city’s signature.

And only a proper Mile End food tour (which is a district within Plateau Mont-Royal) with a knowledgeable, equally glutton guide can effectively dive in the heart of the matter that is food in Montreal. The 2.5-hour walking tour (vegetarian friendly) encompasses 5 food stops and includes at the most emblematic restaurants, including a bagel shop and a fine chocolate boutique!

From a local: 14 essential things to do in Montreal

Grab a coffee.

Travelling solely to try out new coffee shops is something more and more 20-somethings do nowadays, and Montreal certainly hasn’t missed the memo. With seemingly one or two new coffee shops opening up every week, even Montrealers have a hard time keeping track!

Some of my favourite coffee shops in Plateau Mont-Royal:

• Réplika / 252 Rachel Est
• Dispatch / 4021 St Laurent
• Café Myriade / 4627 St Denis
• Café Nocturne / 19 Prince Arthur West
• Le moineau masqué / 912 Marie-Anne Est
• Noble Café  / 430 Laurier Est

The 19 most photogenic coffee shops in Montreal

Explore parks.

Although not quite as leafy as, say, London, Montreal does quite well nonetheless in terms of green grassy spaces, especially in Plateau Mont-Royal.

Oftentimes, locals will gather friends (along with a couple of bottles of wine for good measure) for an afternoon of leisure in the sun at any given park in the neighbourhood — although most would argue that Parc Sir Wilfrid Laurier is the de facto picnic capital of the city.

Other great parks to discover in the area?

• Try reading a book in the shadow of centennial trees by the serpentine in Parc Lafontaine
• Admire the view of Mont-Royal mountain in Parc Jeanne-Mance
• Watch locals go about their daily business in compact but picturesque Parc Lahaie , flanked by St-Laurent Boulevard and the stunning Saint-Enfant-Jésus du Mile End church
• And, lastly, with its perfectly aligned rows of Victorian houses, Square St-Louis is another photographer’s paradise that is not to be missed.

Go on a Plateau & Mile-End Montreal bike tour

With a bike lane network comprising several hundred kilometers, Montreal is a well-known bike city. It was even crowned the “best major cycling city across the continent” courtesy of an annual raking from PeopleForBikes!

No wonder booking an afternoon with locally-owned Fitz Montreal Bike Tours have quickly become one of the trendiest things to do in Montreal.

Why not see it for yourself on a Plateau & Mile-End Montreal Bike Tour to immerse yourself in the city’s lifestyle and trendy hoods? Explore areas such as the Plateau Mont-Royal in a whole new way, along with visits in nearby Mile End, Little Italy and Outremont areas. Learn more about the musical heritage of Arcade Fire and Leonard Cohen. Sample some of Montreal’s impressive collection of murals, too!

And yes, bagels are included.

Instagram picturesque streets

In addition to vivid murals, Montreal is a sight for sore eyes with perfectly aligned rows of houses, colourful windows and twirling iron staircases.

If I had to pick one social media platform, it would probably be Instagram. I often use it to scout locations when I plan my travels; to me, it’s easier to get a real sense of a place from a local’s point of view through Instagram than through any other medium.

There’s a myriad of ways the shutterbug in you can capture the essence of Montreal in these Insta-friendly streets, in the stretch wedged between Prince-Arthur Street and Laurier Avenue:

• Drolet Street
• Henri-Julien Street
• Laval Avenue

Also worth a stroll: Gilford Street, rue Garnier close to St-Joseph Boulevard.

Montreal bike tour: hoods & hidden gems

Scooter tour of plateau mont-royal, plan for a nightcap.

It comes as a surprise to absolutely no one that Montrealers like their drink in the evening. And Plateau Mont-Royals bars are quite abundant, and rather attractive, too.

While most tourists will mistakenly opt to stay downtown or in Old-Montreal for a nightcap, there are true gems to be found just a bit further up north where the locals go and gather to celebrate a birthday, a milestone or just a plain old Tuesday.

• Bar à flot (cool, trendy natural wine bar with small shareable plates) / 4857 Parc
• Réservoir (brewpub with craft beers) / 9 Duluth Est
• Bar Henrietta (Portuguese eatery with fantastic cocktails and wine list) / 115 Laurier Ouest
• Buvette chez Simone (great charcuterie plates and wines, a local’s favourite) / 4869 Parc
• Bar Suzanne (leafy, mismatched type-place with a large offer of dumplings) / 20 Duluth Est
• Rouge Gorge (excellent list of French wines) / 1234 Mont-Royal Est

Take part in special events and festivals

There are plenty of festivals and special events to take part in on Plateau Mont-Royal and not just in the warmer months, but in fact year-round.

Summer is, however, arguably the best time of the year to visit with major happenings like:

• Mural Festival (see above)
• POP Montréal in mid-September (vibrant multi-day festival championing independence in the arts by presenting emerging talents from around the world)
• The entire Mont-Royal Avenue is pedestrian-only from June to September, and dotted with 7 themed parks that were carefully designed for the occasion.
• Winter also brings Nuit blanche  to the area for those brave enough to face sub zero temperatures.
• Plus, the district’s team put together a series of lovery themed itineraries (French only, but Google Translate is your friend here) to explore the area with specific interests in mind: vinyls, used bookshops, vintage boutiques, sunny patios to get a drink. Enjoy!

Venture into the Mile End

Call it hipster capital, call it the artsiest district in Montreal — eclectic Mile End Montreal doesn’t care for labels.

Technically part of trendy Plateau Mont-Royal but infinitely more diverse, this effervescent district covers just about 10 blocks but is incidentally home to Canada’s largest concentration of artists, in addition to some of Montreal’s most acclaimed restaurants. This also is where some of the most interesting shopping in Montreal can be accomplished.

Where to hang out in Mile End Montreal

Catch a show.

Downtown Montreal is where the major arena shows will be performed; Plateau Mont-Royal, on the other hand, will welcome intimate gigs and open the stage to up-and-coming artists of various backgrounds and mediums with a promising future.

Casa del Popolo and sister establishment Sala Rossa , as well as Rialto Theatre  and Fairmount Theatre , are great places to catch live music shows while The Wiggle Room is dedicated to burlesque entertainment; Montreal Improv is quite self-explanatory, while endearingly outside-the-box  Mainline Theatre  is indie theatre’s home in the neighbourhood.

If your French allows, don’t miss out on the chance of seeing a play in one of the area’s many legendary theatres, like La Licorne , Espace Go , Théâtre d’Aujourd’hui or Théâtre du Rideau Vert .

Put on your eating pants

Rumour has it that Montreal has the second highest amount of restaurants per capita in North America – is that the best reason to wear your eating pants or what? But with so many eateries on offer, it can be hard to pick the right ones to visit during a short trip so I’ve done the legwork for you!

Here are some of my favourite restaurants in Plateau Mont-Royal:

• Majestique  / 4105 St-Laurent
• L’Express / 3927 St-Denis
• Tri Express  / 1650 Laurier Est
• Byblos le petit café  / 1499 Laurier Est
• Noren  / 77 Rachel Ouest
• Pâtisserie Rhubarbe  / 1479 Laurier Est
• Schwartz’s Deli  / 3895 St-Laurent
• Yokato Yokabai Ramen  / 4185 Drolet
• Restaurant HÀ / 243 Mont-Royal Ouest

The 18+ best restaurants in Montreal

Indulge in retail therapy.

Sure, you could stick to the high-street and the Gaps and H&Ms of this world. But what if I told you there are plenty of cute boutiques where you could get staple pieces made with love by a local Montreal designer?

Several of the best boutiques in Montreal are located in the Mile-End area adjacent to Plateau Mont-Royal; while you’re there, make sure to head slightly east in order not to miss out on these beautiful shops:

• Bleu et persillé (cheese) / 1475 Mont-Royal Est
• Naïf (women clothing) / 1557 Laurier Est
• BKIND (vegan skincare) / 3455 St-Laurent
• Les chocolats de Chloé  (fine chocolates) /  546 Duluth Est
• 33 tours  (vinyls) /  1373 Mont-Royal Est
• Buk & Nola  (home decor & fashion accessories) /  1593 Laurier Est
• m0851  (leather goods) / 3526 St-Laurent
• L’intervalle (shoes) / 806 Mont-Royal Est
• Magasin Général Lambert Gratton (vintage home decor) /  4051 de Bullion

All photo credits: Gaelle LeRoyer

Get the book!

Find out where I go in Montreal for a romantic date, for little-known artsy museums, for designer splurges, and for Instagram-friendly cafés. Inside this eBook you will find 40+ pages full of preciously handpicked, highly curated Montreal travel tips with underrated attractions, off-the-beaten path itinerary ideas, and neighbourhood highlights that locals love!

Marie-Eve is a native Montrealer trying to balance a deep love for her hometown and an unquenchable thirst for travel and discovery. She has been to more than 36 countries, lived abroad in both France and the U.K., and is always on the lookout for authentic experiences wherever she travels -- especially if it involves wine.

Similar Posts

My tips for visiting Old Montreal this summer

To help you enjoy your time there as much as possible, I put together an Old-Montreal walking itinerary that I think will be helpful for first-timers in the city; it includes must-see stops as well as picturesque streets you don’t want to miss.

From January to December: a guide to the best festivals in Montreal

If there is one thing Montreal is famous for, it’s the hundreds of festivals it hosts every year, most of…

The Eastern Townships wine route as a day trip from Montreal

While most of the world’s wine supply comes from either France or Italy, many regions are proud producers, too. Hungary,…

What you need to know before moving to Montreal

Being a Montrealer myself, it’s kind of hard to explain the things I have known ever since I was born,…

Where to find the best poutine in Montreal

Finding the best poutine in Montreal is akin to going after the Holy Grail – many have tried, but few…

From a local: 13 essential things to do in Montreal in 2024

Before we start – I’m well aware that 15 things is not a whole lot. I could list every single thing to…

Plateau Mont-Royal

• Sherbrooke • 5 min walk
• Saint-Laurent • 9 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

Plateau Mont-Royal - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Plateau Mont-Royal

Montreal’s Plateau Mont-Royal neighbourhood is affectionately nicknamed The Plateau by Montreal’s locals. Considered by many to be Montreal’s trendiest and hippest neighbourhood , the Plateau is famously known for Montreal’s unique architectural feature: the exterior staircases that are present on many of the houses in this neighbourhood. You will find many brick houses and popular streets in this trendy neighborhood.

Plateau Mont-Royal’s Architecture

Creativity and the plateau, the plateau’s nightlife, plateau mont-royal streets and landmarks, boulevard saint-laurent, rue prince arthur, carré st-louis, share your thoughts.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Official Website View in Virtual Tour

Most Popular

Montreal’s RESO Network Map (Underground City Map)

RESO – Montreal Underground City (La Ville Souterraine)

Montreal underground City Map

Downtown Montreal Map

Montreal Metro Map

Mount-Royal (Mont-Royal)

Pierre Eliot Trudeau International Airport General Maps

The Montreal Metro

Montreal Attractions Map

Quays of the Old Port (Quais du Vieux-Port)

Plateau Mont-Royal

• Sherbrooke • 5 min walk
• Saint-Laurent • 9 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Plateau Mont-Royal - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• North America
• The Top 10 Things To...

The Top Things to Do and See in Plateau Mont-Royal

Plateau Mont-Royal is best-known as the hipster district of Montreal , Quebec, Canada . It’s all old stone buildings with plenty of bars and restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. Read on for Culture Trip’s top recommendations of things to do and see here.

Écomusée du fier monde.

The Écomusée du Fier Monde, housed in a former public bath, is a stunning example of 1920s architecture. Tracing the industrial revolution and the origins of Plateau Mont-Royal, the museum allows you to reflect on the community’s history and social issues. The permanent exhibition showcases the daily life of the area’s working-class residents and grassroots groups.

Barbossa (formerly Blizzarts) is a popular party destination for Plateau Mont-Royal residents and Montreal in general. Perfect for a quiet drink or a dance, it’s a great mix between a lounge and a club. Local up-and-coming DJs perform here, with different nights of the week offering different music genres.

Le Sainte-Élisabeth

With a pub-like atmosphere, Le Sainte-Élisabeth is worth visiting for the terrace, which is surrounded by towering, ivy-covered walls that provide a relaxing setting, especially during the summer months. You can also admire the beautiful garden from the glassed-in terrace on the second floor. Happy hour offers delicious cocktails and craft beers, making it a popular place to mingle with friendly locals.

Le Lab Comptoir à Cocktails

If you’re a cocktail enthusiast, Le Lab Comptoir à Cocktails is a must. Founder, owner and mixologist Fabien Maillard has more than 15 years’ experience. A master of his art, he won Top Shelf Barman in 2014 and third-best International Bar Leader in 2010. Gabrielle Panaccio, who works with Fabien as director and owner, is a trusted mixologist, too, willing to shake up any classic or drink of your choice. Expect a dimly lit speakeasy with skilled bar staff.

Dieu du Ciel

If you’re into microbrews, then add Dieu du Ciel to your list. It offers a wide selection of house brews and exotic imports, making it the perfect place for beer lovers. One favorite is the slightly acidic, gorgeous-smelling Rosée d’Hibiscus, a wheat beer that gets its rose coloring from the hibiscus flowers added during the brewing process. Aside from the beer, the venue has a lively and vibrant atmosphere – reason enough to make a trip.

Rialto Theatre

The Rialto Theatre concert and event venue, a National Historic Site of Canada, was once a movie palace. It was built in 1923-4 by Montreal architect Joseph-Raoul Gariépy, who was inspired by the neo-baroque style of the Palais Garnier in Paris. With ornate architectural details, this Montreal landmark is a must-see. Visit the theater’s website for more information on live performances.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,656 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Mtelus’s (formerly Métropolis) started life as a skating rink. Since then, the venue has been a theater, a cinema and the victim of two fires since opening its doors in 1884. It’s now the home of great live music, hosting concerts by the likes of David Bowie, Prince, Beck, Radiohead and Björk, and among Montreal’s best venues, with a capacity of 2,300.

Bagg Street Shul

Built in 1921, Bagg Street Shul is Quebec’s oldest synagogue still operating and recognized as a heritage site by the province’s Minister of Culture and the City of Montreal. While it’s a plain brick box from the outside, you’ll find beautifully carved and intricate decor inside. Bagg Street Shul is a popular spot on tours around the city, including those run by Marko Kulik, an expe­ri­enced Montreal pho­tog­ra­pher.

Parc Sir-Wilfrid-Laurier

If you want to relax a bit in Plateau Mont-Royal, Parc Sir-Wilfrid-Laurier is a stone’s throw from Laurier metro station. Regularly frequented by Montrealers, it’s a peaceful escape from the city’s bustling tourist crowds, with a lush garden and an array of large, shady trees. The park also has a soccer field, two baseball fields, a public swimming pool, a horseshoe pit, a dog park and a playground. If you’re visiting during the summer, you can also catch one of its outdoor movie screenings.

Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church

The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Roman Catholic church, designed by Alphonse Raza, opened in 1875. It has been destroyed by fires and rebuilt several times. Today, the interior is in a baroque-revival style with stained-glass windows. Visit the church to learn about its history and admire its beautiful architecture. Concerts regularly take place here, and guided tours are available during the summer.

Mile End Food Tour

As well as being known for its artistic flair, Mile End is recognized as one of Montreal’s top foodie destinations. Discover the neighborhood from an insider’s perspective on a guided walking tour, discovering the best restaurants and cafes in the area. From locally raised meats at Boucherie Lawrence to vegan treats at La Panthère Verte, the eateries in Mile End cater to every palate. Don’t miss St-Viateur Bagel for a taste of an authentic Montreal-style bagel . Tours are run by the likes of Local Montréal Food Tours; alternatively, explore at your own pace on a self-guided tour.

Cinéma du Parc

What better way to spend a rainy day in Plateau Mont-Royal than catching a movie at an independent cinema? Cinéma du Parc is an underground theater showcasing rare and international films, from classics starring Hollywood heroes to foreign features worth the subtitles. There are also midnight showings. Decked out with cafeteria-like tables and old-fashioned seating, it is like stepping into a time machine. There’s also a mezzanine art gallery – a free exhibition space for independent artists.

Additional reporting by Emma Gibbins

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Places to Stay

A personal shopper’s guide to montreal with martin charbonneau.

Restaurants

The best restaurants in blainville, quebec.

The Best Restaurants in Saint-Jérôme, Quebec

The Best Vacation Rentals to Book in Montreal, Canada

Where to Book a Stay in Montréal, Canada, for a Local Experience

Hip Apartments in Montreal, Quebec, You’ll Want to Call Home

The Best Hostels in Montreal, Canada

The Best Bed & Breakfasts in Montreal

The Best Hotels in Montreal, Canada

The Best Family-Friendly Hotels to Book in Montreal, Canada

The Best Spa Hotels in Montreal, Quebec

Bars & Cafes

The best bars in the quartier latin, montreal, culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 412996
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

10 Plateau Mont-Royal Essentials

Montreal’s coolest neighborhood is also it’s most sought-after; as a kind of love child of brooklyn, shoreditch, and sodermälm, plateau mont-royal is inherently hip and has been setting trends for well over two decades now. quirky shops, colorful buildings with twirling iron staircases, and third-wave coffee shops are among plateau mont-royal’s most popular things to do, as are having picnics in parc laurier and designer shopping on montreal’s iconic boulevard saint-laurent..

• Copy Link copied

← Back to Local Montreal Food Tours

Check out Local City Guides

• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

Plateau Mont-Royal : 17+ Exciting Things to Do in 2023 | Local tips

A List of Amazing Things to Do in the Plateau Mont-Royal

Le Plateau Mont-Royal: the restaurants are endless, the people are beautiful and art is everything. No wonder it’s the most densely populated borough in Canada. From indie theatre to unique restaurants, from lush green parks to Portuguese chicken, and from local artists to secret alley ways, we present to you… The Local Montreal Guide to Visiting The Plateau.

This article is specifically about The Plateau without including the Mile End. Check out our article on Montreal’s Mile End for more details. For even more inspiration, try these Super Exciting Things to Do in Montreal for Summer 2020.

17. Keep your eyes (and ears) out for cool stuff

Locals are always working to make their space reflect their values. When most of those locals are creative , energetic types, you’re pretty much guaranteed to stumble upon public art as you explore. Want a hint or two, treasure hunt style? Public pianos can be found scattered around, and there’s usually one on St-Laurent and Rachel at the Parc des Amériques. The international soft street art of yarn bombing also takes a seat in the Plateau: take a look for cozy trees and lamp posts. And..  psst!  A little birdie told us that every so often there are pop up concert venues in the alley ways! So keep your eyes and ears open, because escaping other peoples’ creative outlets isn’t going to be possible in this magical place called The Plateau.

Have a quick look at our “Vlog” about Mile-End’s Best Restaurants and Things to do! 

16. Lounge in Plateau Mont-Royal park paradise

Picnics, fountains, benches, trees, ponds, BBQ’s… Parks are truly where the magic happens in a Montreal summer. The Plateau Mont-Royal has some of the best around, and the people you’ll find in them are sometimes just as good. Of course, there’s Parc La Fontaine , perfect for a bike ride or picnic in the summer, and has a huge outdoor skating rink in the winter.  Carré St-Louis ,  at the bottom of Prince-Arthur, has one of the city’s most romantic fountains surrounded by benches.  Parc Jeanne-Mance , opposite to Mount Royal is a classic for a reason. Receiving tam-tam echoes on Sundays , and hosting soft ball on most days, this large patch of grass has the perfect amount of action for a non-boring picnic spot.

15. Take the Mile End Montreal Food Tour

The Mile End is a community within the Plateau known for its high density of artists and recognized as a top foodie destination. Join an experienced local guide on the Mile End Food Tour and you’ll have the chance to discover famed institutions such as Saint Viateur Bagel, and try other artisanal foods. Not only that, the walking tour will take you through the area’s hidden corners and secret gems to learn all about the area’s art, history, architecture and culture, allowing you to get to know the neighbourhood from an insider’s perspective. This is a culinary and cultural experience you won’t want to miss!

Click here to read more about the tour, and book your tickets today!

14. Visit these top places for a 5 à 7

Buvette Chez Simone

For a classic and cozy 5-7 in an unpretentious atmosphere but great, upscale food, La Buvette Chez Simone is your destination. They have an extensive selection of wine that you can pair with their aromatic cheese and meat sharing platters, and they also make the tastiest salads for miles. In the summer, their intimate terrace is always packed with patrons with a wine glass in one hand, and cheese in the other. 4869 Park Ave

Having opened in 1998, Bily Kun is a timeless Czech bar with a decor that could be described as ‘tavern-chic’. Your happy hour experience is punctuated by the smooth and sophisticated music of live jazz ensembles . Taste their Czech-inspired snacks to pair with their menu of, mainly, Czech beers . If beer isn’t your refreshment of choice, in true eastern-Europe style, their cocktail list features absinthe and other Czech liquors. Try the absinthe-laced apple cocktail and let your work day fade away… 354 Mont-Royal Est

Rouge Gorge

If you’re yearning for a taste of France’s countryside,  Rouge Gorge  (or Red Throat) can satisfy those cravings. Set in an effortlessly sophisticated locale, Rouge Gorge is a wine bar with a carefully selected list of wines, predominantly originating from France . Their food menu also mirrors their French style: charcuterie, tartare and fine salads are offered, making this 5-7 an elegant experience all around. 1234 Mont-Royal Ave E

From brunch to evening cocktails, Sparrow  is a favourite spot morning and night . This drinkerie has the feel of a tavern with sprinkles of vintage decor and old wooden pews pulled-up to the tables. They have an extensive list of cocktails, beer, and wine for a post-work refreshment set in a warm and homey locale. 5322 St Laurent Blvd

There’s nothing like the vibe of an airport lounge . If you’ve ever been a fan of a pre-departure cocktail but dreaded being cooped-up on a plane for hours on end, Plan B has what you’re looking for. The decor is simple : a long dark leather booth lining the wall, lots of glossy wood and light beige walls. The menu is also straightforward , offering a bit of everything from cocktails, beer, wine, aperitifs and a list of scotch. Be sure to visit their candlelit backyard terrace in the warmer months! 327 Mont-Royal Ave E

Bonus: Take a Plateau & Mile-End Montreal Bike Tour

Montreal   has become a magical place to visit by bike. The Plateau, Mile-End & Jean-Talon Market Montreal Bike Tour invites participants to explore the neighbourhoods  vibrant scene  by learning about the multicultural history of the area and digging into the  hidden gems  it has to offer. Go off the beaten path as you will ride quiet residential streets and green lanes and get a good dose of the local lifestyle. Check out these Fitz Montreal Bike Tours

13. Save some bucks and BYOW

If you’re not sure where to look for a BYOW restaurant, here’s a tip: most restaurants on either Prince-Arthur or Duluth are BYOW. These cobblestone streets have an old world feel and are fun to walk along, wine or no wine. If you’re going the wine route though, buy yourself a bottle at the SAQ  and  check out our guide to the best Montreal BYOW restaurants here. 

12. Follow what local artists are up to

Glen LeMesurier

Surely an area defined by art and culture must have its darlings. Metal sculptor Glen LeMesurier  has been living in the area for over 30 years . These longtime roots translate into the industrial sculptures  you can find all over the city, which he prefers to call poetry . Walk around and get entranced by his twisty metal endeavours, such as his project The Twilight Garden on St-Urbain and Van Horne.

Patsy Van Roost

There’s also Mile End resident, Patsy Van Roost . She’s known in the community as “The Mile End Fairy” . Her art seeks to break the walls of isolation within a community and bring people together. By wrapping trees with provocative phrases and including residents in her projects , Van Roost creates exactly the kind of magic that people thought only possible in fairytales.

11. Grab a bite, a drink, and catch a show all at once

Sala Rossa and  Casa del Popolo are sister venues that combine food and music , each in their own very special way. Downstairs at Sala you’ll find a Spanish tapas restaurant , with the most amazing goat cheese balls fried in…honey (it’s actually worth the trip for those alone). Pair these with a nice sangria, and take yourself upstairs to their music venue. The small/medium concert venue welcomes popular indie acts and local events . The decor at Sala is also half the fun: a classic red curtain paired with white lights make the ambiance intimate, no matter how loud the singer sings. Casa del Popolo is like Sala’s little sister: a smaller venue with smaller acts and comforting sandwiches, but you’ll find some of the coolest people in the area hanging out there at all hours of the day.

10. Enjoy a delicious dinner in Plateau Mont-Royal

The Plateau boasts an impressive list of delicious restaurants. It can be hard to choose which one to go to on a particular night. Luckily, the Plateau’s got something no matter your mood, from classic French gastronomical fares to the best pho in town. Here are a few recommendations for where to go when dinning in this neighbourhood.

Restaurant L’Express

Having been established in 1980, Restaurant L’Express is now an iconic eatery in Montreal. Step into this Parisian-style bistro and you’ll find timeless, classic decor: checkered black and white tile floors, white tablecloths, burgundy wood, and a classic French menu . Think tartar with crispy yellow fries, fresh poached salmon, and shrimp risotto. Great for an intimate tete-a-tete, this bistro can tickle even the most discerning tastebuds. 3927 St Denis St, Montreal

Au Pied de Cochon

The chef at Au Pied de Cochon , Martin Picard, is changing the gastronomical game by throwing out many of its core characteristics. Picard’s French fares aren’t small in portion size, light or particularly healthy. The hearty Quebecois dishes are food for the soul while still being simple and rich . Picard’s creative uses of foie gras takes up a lot of the menu from a foie gras poutine to a foie gras tart. Set in an unpretentious and warm locale, this restaurant will entice you to come back more than one foie. 536 Avenue Duluth E

Yokato Yokabai Ramen

As far as small ramen restaurants go, the Plateau Mont-Royal has the best one. Most people probably don’t have time to boil animal bones for twelve hours, but  Yakota Yokabai does. They specialize in serving up the thickest, fattiest, and tastiest broth in the city. Everything is made in house using only natural ingredients and you can pick the toppings for your own dish. Experience the city’s best ramen under the paper lanterns in this cozy Japanese joint. 4185 Drolet

9. Take part in a festival

Keeping with true Montreal tradition, the Plateau Mont-Royal has multiple events and festivals throughout the year. In June you can catch the  Montreal Fringe Fest , which takes over many venues in the area to host experimental local theatre, comedy, burlesque, and everything in between. It’s a must for those who enjoy both the fresh and bizarre . It’s also the centre of a myriad of music festivals: POP Montreal takes over most of the Plateau venues in September and invites local and international indie rock, electronic and other pioneering artists to perform. They also host Puces Pop, a bazar of artisanal goods from local artists, crafters and designers. If international music is more your jam, be sure to checkout Mundial, an international music festival that invites musicians from all around the world to perform throughout November.

8. Explore the famed Plateau Mont-Royal nightlife

The Plateau Mont-Royal is the place to go after dark. There’s something for every taste: a night of extreme dancing, a cocktail tasting at a speakeasy, and catching a band at a cool bar/venue. Most places are located pretty close together, so if you’re not feeling one, just head to another! Here’s a list of exciting nighttime places to visit for a great time.

Sticking to the Main

Although its vibrance extends beyond its night owls, Plateau Mont-Royal nightlife is nothing to scoff at. For a dance party almost every night of the week, Blue Dog Motel and Le Belmont are spots for those who want to let loose on the dance floor. Bass drive Wednesdays at Le Belmont are a popular time to go for a high-energy dance party, with rum and coke pitchers at 20$. Blue Dog doubles as a barber shop during the day, but turns into an intimate dance club at night where many well known Montreal DJs started out. Checkout their websites to find out what events are happening.

Bluedog: 3958 St Laurent Blvd Le Belmont: 4483 St Laurent Blvd

L’Éscogriffe

To broaden your musical horizons, L’Éscogriffe is a bar/venue that hosts local bands and those just passing through Montreal. It’s a prime destination to see shows ranging from punk to indie rock to seasoned jazz ensembles . The stone walls and moody candlelight give it a cavernous feel, reinforcing the idea that you’re experiencing a cool underground show . 4467 St Denis St

The new kid on the block (specifically Marie-Anne and St-Laurent) is Darling,  a coffee shop, 5-7 meeting ground and charming bar . The locale evokes a vintage Los Angeles vibe with tufted leather couches, old fashioned lamps and plants placed just about everywhere. Head there for a morning meet-up over coffee , to bury yourself in your laptop, or for a night of very reasonably-priced refreshments, such as the  ciders on tap . 4328 St Laurent Blvd

Underneath the aforementioned wine bar, Rouge Gorge, is the speakeasy, Le Royal . The underground bar has dark features–smokey marble and bronze walls–giving it a feel of exclusivity. With a passion for mixology, Le Royal stirs up some creative cocktails and also boasts an impressive wine list like its sister bar upstairs. For an intimate, chic night out , Le Royal is the place. 1232 Mont-Royal Ave E

This quaint, corner bar/club is a great place for cocktails and dancing –what more could you ask for? Datcha  has a Russian theme and minimalist design with an arch in the center and white brick walls. It’s an intimate venue with a mixed crowd, from students to business-chic. The music runs the gamut of musical genres, from electro to funk . If you’re anywhere near Laurier street and hoping for a European-style dance club , you’re in luck! 98 Avenue Laurier O

7. Get crafty (or tipsy) with Mtl brewed beers

The Plateau Mont-Royal is no exception to the current craft beer boom. Getting tipsy has never tasted so good! Le Reservoir  on Duluth is your go-to microbrewery if you love  rooftop terraces  and refined dishes. Benelux , on the cusp of the McGill Ghetto, is known for their flavourful IPAs and wide range of successful brews.  Dieu du Ciel  (God of the Sky), is comparable to Montreal’s grandfather of gourmet beers, taking the award for Best Brewery year after year. Take yourself to Laurier street and bask in everything from fruity brews to dark coffee stouts such as the Péché Mortel (deathly sin). Oh and, don’t worry–they’ve got a patio too.

6. Get the lowdown on Le Petit Laurier

Le Petit Laurier is another little neighbourhood on the outskirts of the Plateau Mont-Royal, full of its own unique character . To find it, take yourself to Laurier Park, be inevitably impressed by it, and keep going East. A neighbourhood once populated mainly by blue collar workers, today Le Petit Laurier is a lovely mix of that and young vibrant artists. Byblos Le Petit Café is an authentic Iranian restaurant that transports you to its mysterious homeland by way of artsy woodsy decor and dishes. Go there for a brunch like you’ve never had it before, and be sure to ask the Mother of the house for her recommendation.

For a taste of the area’s inner workings, go to Cafe Les Entretiens , a restaurant that began as a joint dance school and sandwich spot. Today, it serves up some of the finest bistro food , doubling as a gallery for local artists . If that wasn’t enough to pull you out of bed and drag you there ecstatically, you just might do so when I tell you that they’ve mastered the art of brunch , specializing in breakfast potatoes.

5. Find the best Montreal poutine

Among the many Montreal food wars–best bagel, best smoked meat–the Plateau Montrealis home to Montreal’s poutine war. All the best poutineries are located within the area, making the Plateau Mont-Royal a haven for that late night greasy snack. Here are some poutine war competitors to indulge in so you can pick your own winner.

Patati Patata

This tiny, corner gourmet french fry shack is is unassuming, but is full at pretty much every hour of the day and night. The reason? Patati Patata ‘s classic poutine: a perfect ratio of cheese curds, veggie gravy and dark, crispy fries. Upgrade to a “patatine,” which adds mushrooms, red peppers and onion to the best dish in town. Their window seats are perfect for people watching and make sure to wash down your Quebecois fare with their homemade iced tea . 4177 St Laurent Blvd

Chez Claudette

Chez Claudette is the definition of classic Quebec comfort food . They boast a menu of a few dozen different kinds of poutine , from spicy tomato sauce to meat galore, but, of course, you can never go wrong with opting for the classic three ingredients. Their fries are drenched in gravy (as it should be) and can be enjoyed in their little corner locale that’s very casual mom & pop . Among the Montreal poutine war candidates, Chez Claudette is a top contender . 351 Laurier Ave E

La Banquise

Well, we had to mention La Banquise ! This world famous poutinerie attracts a steady flow of people all 24 hours of the day, from late night partiers to daytime cravers. Their poutine is said to be, by many Montrealers, the best poutine in the city (which really means it’s the best poutine in the world). The bright decor is so simple you’ll barely notice it – you’ll be so focused on your delicious, gravy-soaked fries! What will catch your eye is the lineup of people at the door waiting to feast on one of Montreal’s most delicious delicacies. With over thirty different poutine variations , there’s always a reason to come back! 994 Rue Rachel E

Ma Poule Mouillée

Who knew a Portuguese rotisserie could master a Quebec classic? Ma Poule Mouillée ‘s version of poutine features São Jorge cheese, charcoal-cooked chicken and chorizo sausages . They’re known for their chicken and tasty meat sandwiches, but their poutine is as delicious as any dish on the menu. 969 Rachel St E

4. Experience indie theater in Plateau Mont-Royal

The Mont-Royal Plateau’s art factor doesn’t stop at its murals, DJ’s, or culinary feats. St-Laurent street houses two theatres in a three block radius.

Mainline Theatre

First up is Mainline Theatre . Charmingly bizarre space Mainline Theatre is known as “indie theatre’s home on The Main.” Host to an array of quirky acts , workshops, comedy, and film screenings, Mainline’s community-run vibe (and reality) makes it a true gem. And hey–what screams  “we’re in this together” more than a gender-neutral bathroom? Whether you’re in it for the show, or the politically correct bathroom, Mainline’s a spot you’ll want to check out.

Montreal Improv

Walk a few blocks up and you’ll find Montreal Improv,   an improv acting school (Yes! This is your chance! Hollywood?!) that has improv shows in both English and French , as often as Thursday through Sunday. It’s a fun, laid back space, and an excellent option if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to have fun.

The Wiggle Room

The   The Wiggle Room , also on St-Laurent, is your go to for all things burlesque, circus, and vaudeville . The folk there don’t take themselves too seriously, but absolutely  do  take their craft seriously. High quality performances with nothing but a passion for the fun, sexy, and bizarre , check out their calendar and make a reservation!

3. Catch a flick at these independent cinemas

Catching a movie in The Plateau Mont-Royal is a great way to boycott that super-sized, unreasonably priced, commercial movie theatre experience, and stay in proximity to all awesome things of Le Plateau. The area contains  Cinema du Parc , and… our very own erotic film theatre, Cinema L’Amour !

Cinema du Parc

Cinema du Parc is an underground theatre (I mean, it’s literally under the ground), which makes it perfect for rainy days. There you’ll find foreign films, old films, indie films , and judiciously picked Hollywood movies. This little mall is a strange time machine to the 70’s, filled with cafeteria-like tables and an awesome Chinese restaurant. Catch an indie film and then pretend you’re inside one.

Cinéma L’Amour

And Cinema L’Amour ? Well… who doesn’t like a good vintage erotic film ? This iconic location in the Plateau Mont-Royal may have sticky seats, but it’s an experience you’re sure to remember. Oh and.. Pro tip: it’s  free  for couples on Mondays and Tuesdays! They also have merch , so you can proudly wear a Cinéma L’Amour t-shirt back home.

2. Connect with the area’s Portuguese roots

Look around and you’ll begin to notice: there’s an awful lot of Portuguese joints around. That’s because before becoming Montreal’s artistically diverse hot spot, The Plateau Mont-Royal used to be a primarily Portuguese neighbourhood . And thankfully for everyone, those roots remain. The first sign you’ll find is Parc du Portugal , located on St-Laurent and Marie-Anne, where Leonard Cohen used to hang out. The  real  reason people love the Portuguese allure to the hood however, is because of the chicken.  Chez Doval is a popular  sit-down option serving up its famous meat and seafood, and their weekend dinner service sometimes has a guitarist walking around, signing Portuguese songs !

Romados on Rachel is known for its large portions of mouthwatering chicken and fries . Utter the word “Romados” to any local and watch their eyes go wide, and their mouth salivate. It’s like a magic word to make any Montrealer chicken-crazy. You’ll have an important choice to make: spicy or not spicy, choose wisely (spicy).

1. Get coffee 

Surely, a neighbourhood this full of artists and intellectuals requires coffee.  Lots  of coffee. If you’re on the Mountain or Mont-Royal Street, Café Plume is there to serve: the quaint spot is the perfect combination of friendly staff and a creativity inducing atmosphere. Le Lapin Pressé on Laurier has a cold brew to die for, and makes the most scrumptious cheesy sandwiches. The ever-so-popular Café Névé on Rachel is at your service for all things espresso , chewy cookies, and cozy turquoise decor. Pro tip: all these spots are perfect if you’re looking for somewhere to write The Next Great Montreal Novel. …And for one more, Dispatch, a sleek, modern and minimalist third wave cafe just opened up on St-Laurent street and Duluth–it’s instantly popular for a reason!

Things to do in Montreal

Things to do in Quebec City

Things to do in toronto, ready to eat.

Book your Tickets

Offer a Gift Card

Reserve a Private group Tour

Things to do

• Team Building Montreal | 16 Exciting & Gathering Ideas 2024
• Old Montreal Restaurants | June 2024 | 22 Very Cool places
• Mile End Montreal : 27+ Best Things To Do In 2024 | Local Tips
• 20+ Restaurants for Groups in Montreal | Private Rooms

The Plateau

• 1 Understand
• 3.1 Buildings
• 4.1 Festivals
• 5.1 Clothing
• 6.2 Ice cream
• 6.4 Mid-range
• 6.5 Splurge
• 7.1 Dance clubs
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge

The Plateau is a bohemian district in Montreal that has become gentrified since the 1980s. The neighbourhood is now home to many upscale restaurants and nightclubs, and several trendy clothing stores along St. Laurent Blvd. and St. Denis St. The Plateau is characterized by brightly coloured houses, cafés, book shops, and a laissez-faire attitude that embraces its bohemian nature over the commercialized hipster culture of its Mile-End counterpart.

The Plateau began as a bourgeois community with parts of its extensions as working-class developing around the beginning of the 20th century; the Eastern part being largely Québécois, and the Western part primarily European with a total visible minority estimated at 17%. The neighbourhood was the childhood home of Quebec writers Michel Tremblay and Mordecai Richler and both set many stories in the Plateau of the 1950s and 60s. The Plateau is now a creative, family-oriented, upper-middle-class neighbourhood. Although the Eastern part is still largely Québécois, the Plateau (now nicknamed "La Nouvelle-France") is emerging as an enclave for French expats in Montreal.

In the 1980s, the area's bohemian aura and proximity to McGill University attracted gentrification. As rents increased, many of its traditional residents and businesses were dispersed to other parts of the city. It's the location of some famous attractions on Saint Laurent Boulevard, including Schwartz's Deli (famous for its Montreal smoked meat), and a weekend street fair during the summer that sees extremely crowded streets.

The Plateau is adjacent to the downtown core, so there are many ways to access it. Avenue du Parc, boulevard Saint-Laurent, rue Saint-Denis, and rue Papineau run north/south through the Plateau and are paralleled by dozens of side streets in between. East/west, rue Sherbrooke, avenue des Pins, avenue Rachel, avenue du Mont-Royal, and boulevard Saint-Joseph bisect the Plateau, with Mont-Royal carrying a lot of shops, bars, and restaurants. All of these streets are accessible by car (though Staint-Laurent is one way, going north) and served by many taxi companies.

Each of these streets and a few others are served by bus routes run by the STM. In addition, the Orange line of the Montreal Metro runs underneath rue Berri, adjacent to rue Saint-Denis. Sherbrooke, Mont-Royal, and Laurier Metro stations are also on the Plateau.

Bike routes are few but still useful. There are separated bike lanes on avenue Rachel from Parc Mont-Royal to boulevard Lafontaine and rue Brébeuf from parc Lafontaine to parc Laurier, and there are painted bike lanes along rue Saint-Urbain, rue Milton, rue Prince-Arthur, and rue Saint-Joseph. These lanes are generally not respected by Montreal drivers, so watch out. In addition, several of these lanes are not plowed during the winter, making them all but impassible following heavy snow.

The most dominant architectural feature of the Plateau is the endless rows of Montreal duplexes and triplexes that house the majority of the Plateau's population. These buildings date from the early 20th century and, with their distinctive exterior staircases and wrought-iron ornamentation, have come to define the visual landscape of the Plateau.

In addition, there are a few buildings of note scattered around the Plateau. The Warshaw building (boulevard Saint-Laurent and rue Bagg) dates from the 1920s and was the Plateau's first skyscraper. Though it has only seven floors, it is a distinctive feature of the neighbourhood. Farther north, 4020 boulevard Saint-Laurent is recognisable by its impressive refinished neo-Art Deco exterior. Also, there are many large churches from the 19th century and the early 20th century. Most notable of these would be the oriental looking St. Michael the Archangel, located at 5590 rue Saint-Urbain at rue Saint-Vincent ouest.

On the southern end of the Plateau, on the edge of the McGill University ghetto, is the Galleries du Parc, a large 1960s-era urban redevelopment project. The Galleries are comprised of four large buildings, three of them devoted to apartments and the fourth devoted to office space. In addition, a former hotel, now a residence of McGill University, and an underground shopping complex are part of the Galleries project. The underground mall, though small, contains a variety of shops and services including the Parc Cinema, showing art-house and second-run films.

The Plateau is bordered on two sides by large parks. To the west is Parc du Mont-Royal , designed by Frederic Law Olmstead in the 1880s, and a dominant feature of the Montreal landscape. The park is well used for recreation, biking, hiking, cross-country skiing in the winter, as well as the weekly Tam Tams celebration during the summer months. Parc du Mont-Royal is safe and accessible by the adjacent Parc Jeanne-Mance , listed below, and by Ave du Parc. To the east is Parc Lafontaine , also listed below.

• 45.516061 -73.584863 1 Parc Jeanne-Mance , between ave du Parc, ave du Mont-Royal, ave de l'Esplanade, and ave des Pins ( bus 11, 29, 55, 80, 97, 129, or 144 ). Located in the western part of the Plateau, adjacent to Parc du Mont-Royal . At the corner of Mont-Royal and Parc is an art deco fountain dedicated in honour of Louis Rubenstein, the father of Canadian figure skating.  
• 45.526314 -73.568727 2 Parc Lafontaine , between ave du Parc Lafontaine, rue Rachel, ave Papineau, and rue Sherbrooke ( metro Sherbrooke or Mont-Royal, bus 11, 14, 24, 29, or 45 ). Located in the eastern part of the Plateau, the park is well-manicured and includes an artificial lake, bike paths, sporting facilities, and an outdoor amphitheater. Very popular during summer.  

• 45.517057 -73.569963 3 Carré Saint-Louis ( Square Saint-Louis ), between ave Laval, rue Saint-Denis, and the two sides of rue du Square Saint-Louis ( metro Sherbrooke, bus 24, 20, or 144 ). A smaller park, Carré Saint-Louis is at the east end of the Prince Arthur pedestrian mall, next to rue Saint-Denis. Though a fraction of the size of either Parc LaFontaine or Parc du Mont-Royal, it is a popular and scenic local destination. Two fountains, bike paths, and easy access to a number of restaurants and shops provide a comforting background and a relaxing setting. On a side note, many of the gags on the television show Just For Laughs are performed in this park. The park is also notable for the colourful Victorian rowhouses that surround it.  
• 45.502 -73.5929 4 Mount Royal Park , 1260 Chemin Remembrance , ☏ +1 514-843-8240 , [email protected] . Has an artificial lake, many paths through the wood, and the best view on the city of Montreal. ( updated Feb 2018 )

There are also examples of impressive urban tableaux and graffiti art found throughout the Plateau. The side streets to the east of boulevard Saint-Laurent are well known for this, particularly avenue Duluth .

• 45.521657 -73.570301 5 Place Roy , rue Roy est and rue Saint-André ( metro Sherbrooke, bus 14, 24, 30, or 144 ). Public art piece in a small square featuring a stone map of the world and several scattered bronze chairs.  

The Plateau area is a great place to walk around, shop, go to restos and clubs, or just hang out. There is always something interesting happening here, a very cool ambiance. It borders Mile End and Latin Quarter, both very cool areas themselves. Just get off the orange line at Mont-Royal or Sherbrooke and start walking up St. Denis or St. Laurent.

• 45.524878 -73.58258 1 Maison de la culture du Plateau-Mont-Royal , 465 ave du Mont-Royal est ( between rue Rivard and rue Berri; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 30, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-872-2266 . Tu-Th 13:00-19:00, F-Su 13:00-17:00 . Exhibits local artists. Free .  
• 45.525371 -73.571229 2 Théâtre de Verdure , in Parc Lafontaine near rue Duluth and ave du Parc-Lafontaine ( metro Mont-Royal or Sherbrooke, bus 11, 14, or 29 ), ☏ +1 514-872-4041 , [email protected] . 30 Jun-17 Aug, W-Su 19:30 . 3000-seat outdoor theater open for a summer program of dance, music, movies, and theater. Plan to line up early for the popular symphonies in the park series or just join the crowd of picnickers on the grass around the lake. Free-$30 depending on the show .  
• 45.515399 -73.575894 3 Main Madness ( boul Saint-Laurent between rue Sherbrooke and ave du Mont-Royal ). One weekend in June and August . Two weekends each summer St-Laurent boulevard is closed to cars for the Main Madness street fair. More an overgrown sidewalk sale than fair, restaurants, and shops set up in the middle of the street. Free .  

Though shops are dotted throughout the neighborhood, there are a few principal commercial avenues. Boulevard St-Laurent, known as "The Main" or "La Main", is the largest and most famous, with a cornucopia of restaurants, shops, bars, and other services. Below Ave des Pins, St. Laurent tends to be more upscale, particularly at the junction of Ave Prince Arthur. Further north on St. Laurent there are a variety of clothing stores, hearkening back to the street's history as the center of Montreal's garment district.

As for price, the Plateau has experienced a long stretch of gentrification, which has pushed prices upward in many locations. However, there are still bargains to be found in main places, particularly for vinyl records, books, and second-hand clothing.

Despite on-going gentrification, St-Laurent near Rachel and Mont-Royal west of St-Denis, still have a number of vintage and second-hand frips where you can pick up 1950s prom dresses and '70s T-shirts. Local designers have claimed several spots on St-Laurent including Blank.

• 45.518611 -73.583417 1 [dead link] Quartier Mode ( Fashion Neighborhood ), 4276 boul Saint-Laurent ( between rue Vallières and rue Rachel; metro Mont-Royal, bus 29 or 55 ), ☏ +1 514-843-5555 , [email protected] . Here you can find over 32 locally made independent Montreal designers; clothing for women, well made dresses, pretty accessories and a view into Montreal's fashion community. The owner is a passionate local designer who loves making people happy and finding the right piece for her customers. Locally made accessories $18-60, locally made quality, well made dresses $80-189, mostly under $200. Except for more detailed, fully lined winter coats $168-289 .  
• 45.517138 -73.58012 2 Lustre , 4068 boul Saint-Laurent ( between rue Villeneuve and boul Saint-Joseph; metro Laurier, bus 46, 51, or 55 ), ☏ +1 514-288-7661 . A local designer boutique  
• 45.516841 -73.579412 3 Friperie , 3976 boul Saint-Laurent ( at ave Duluth; bus 29 or 55 ), ☏ +1 514-842-3893 . M-W 11:00-18:00, Th F 11:00-21:00, Sa 11:00-17:00, Su 12:00-17:00 . Vintage.  
• 45.518968 -73.572369 4 Beatnick , 3770 rue St-Denis ( between rue Roy and ave des Pins; metro Sherbrooke, bus 24, 30, or 144 ), ☏ +1 514-842-0664 . M-W 11:00-19:00, Th F 11:00-21:00, Sa Su 11:00-18:00 . Used records and CDs.  
• 45.519359 -73.573238 5 Primitive , 3828 rue St-Denis ( at rue Roy; metro Sherbrooke, bus 24, 30, or 144 ), ☏ +1 514-845-6017 .  
• 45.521195 -73.585247 6 Paul's Boutique , 112 ave du Mont-Royal est ( between rue de Bullion and ave Coloniale; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 55, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-284-7773 . Sa-W 12:00-18:00, Th F 12:00-21:00 . Used CDs, records, and vintage T-shirts.  
• 45.527064 -73.573244 1 [dead link] Vélo Québec , 1251 rue Rachel est ( at rue de Brébeuf across from Parc Lafontaine, bus 11, 14, or 29 ). M-Th 08:30-19:00, F-Su 09:00-20:00 . Good coffee and espresso, plus maps, bicycle kit and free air. Outside seating and plenty of free bicycle parking.  
• 45.523607 -73.58227 2 Cremerie Meu Meu , 4458 rue Saint-Denis ( between ave du Mont-Royal and rue Marie-Anne; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 30, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-288-5889 . Daily 12:00-00:00 . Ice cream and gelato is sold in this little shop.  
• 45.519552 -73.572607 3 Les Givres , 3807 rue Saint-Denis , ☏ +1 514-373-7558 , [email protected] . This artisanal ice cream shop sells gourmet organic products including tasty cakes. The sorbets like the handpicked rhubarb or the "bleuets" are as good as the café or the chocolate choices.  
• 45.516205 -73.577775 4 Ripples , 3880 Boul Saint-Laurent , ☏ +1 514-842-1697 . mid-April - mid-September . The little shop serves homemade ice cream.  
• 45.521158 -73.588449 5 Aux Vivres , 4631 boul Saint-Laurent ( between rue Villeneuve and ave du Mont-Royal; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 46, 51, 55, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-842-3479 . M-F 11:00-23:00, Sa Su 10:00-23:00 . The restaurant serves fresh vegan cuisine. There are many sandwich choices including the classic coconut grilled BLT or salads. Many things can be taken for the go. In the backyard there is a small outside terrasse.  
• 45.525301 -73.574793 6 La Banquise , 994 rue Rachel est ( at ave de la Parc LaFontaine; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 14, or 29 ), ☏ +1 514-525-2415 . 24 hours daily . La Banquise consistently tops locals' lists for best poutine in town (and not just because it's open for post-bar-hopping munch fests when judgment is slightly impaired). Maybe it's because they've been at it since 1968. The clientele is hip and clubworn, the walls and tables are brightly coloured, and the staff is friendly. 25 varieties of poutine make up most of the menu, but if you insist there are hamburgers and other fast-food fare, as well as a bar. $7-18 .  
• 45.523743 -73.58335 7 La Binerie , 367 ave du Mont-Royal est ( at rue Saint-Denis; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 30, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-285-9078 . M-F 06:00-18:00, Sa Su 07:30-15:00 . A small unpretentious eatery that became a legend. It features traditional meals for under $10, especially fèves aux lard (beans cooked overnight with bacon).  
• 45.52236 -73.57791 8 Frite Alors! , 433 rue Rachel est ( at rue Rivard; metro Mont-Royal, bus 29 or 30 ), ☏ +1 514-843-2490 . Su-Th 11:30-23:00, F Sa 11:30-04:00 . Pommes frites with a choice of a half-dozen toppings. Poutine. Burgers. Salads. Part of a small local chain.  
• 45.51915 -73.596479 9 Juliette et Chocolat , 377 ave Laurier ouest ( at ave du Parc; bus 51 or 80 ), ☏ +1 514-510-5651 . M-Th 11:00-23:00, F 11:00-00:00, Sa 10:00-00:00, Su 10:00-23:00 . A chocoholic's paradise! The thick menu at this favourite dessert restaurant, chocolaterie and creperie consists of chocolate in all of its forms, from cakes to thick "grandma's style" hot chocolates to salad dressing! Busy on Saturday nights, a great date or dessert spot. Everything here is sinful.  
• 45.5343 -73.570167 10 Maam Bolduc , 4351 ave de Lorimier ( at rue Marie-Anne; bus 10, 29, or 97 ), ☏ +1 5146527-3884 . M-F 7:30-22:00, Sa 08:00-22:00, Su 08:30-22:00 . Quebecois food include what just may be the best poutine in town, served in a dozen different varieties ranging from traditional to bourguignonne (with mince, mushrooms, and red wine sauce). The portions are huge and the $10.99 régulière is plenty for most ordinary people. ( updated May 2022 )
• 45.515612 -73.580571 11 Santropol , 3990 rue Saint-Urbain ( at ave Duluth; metro Mont-Royal, bus 29 or 55 ), ☏ +1 514-842-3110 . 11:30-22:30 daily . This favorite Montreal spot serves a great selection of creative, gigantic sandwiches, soups, coffees, teas, and breads to appeal to any veggie palate. With a funky decor, a great outdoor garden in the back in the summer, bookshelves stocked with used books, and a food service for the needy, this casual restaurant is a veritable Montreal institution. Casual. Popular among students. $10-20, cash only .  
• 45.516286 -73.577667 12 Schwartz's , 3895 boul Saint-Laurent ( at rue Napoléon; metro Sherbrooke, bus 29 or 55 ), ☏ +1 514-842-4813 . 09:00-00:00 daily . Famous delicatessen for smoked meat, served up in huge, juicy, peppery slabs. Cash only. No reservations. Expect to wait for a table at most times, but the queue moves fast. Smoked meat sandwich $6.22 (with tax). A good tip: locals get their sandwiches at the take-away counter to the left of the restaurant entrance. It moves a lot faster, it's a bit cheaper - and you get the exact same sandwich!  
• 45.517782 -73.578557 13 Soupesoup , 80 ave Duluth est ( at ave Coloniale; metro Sherbrooke, bus 29 or 55 ), ☏ +1 514-380-0880 . M-Sa 11:00-17:00 . Best soup and sandwich in town. Not cheap, but great quality and definitely original.  
• 45.522176 -73.574423 14 Au Pied de Cochon , 536 ave Duluth est ( at ave de Chateaubriand; metro Sherbrooke, bus 29 or 30 ), ☏ +1 514-281-1114 . W-Su 17:00-00:00 . Modern restaurant with casual ambiance. Huge meals. The place to go for lamb and original Quebec cuisine for a reasonable price; the poutine with foie gras is particularly (in)famous. Advance reservations strongly recommended.  
• 45.519047 -73.587486 15 [formerly dead link] Beautys Luncheonette , 93 Mont-Royal West , ☏ +1 514-849-8883 . M-F 07:00-15:00, Sa Su 08:00-16:00 . A classic for it's American brunch open since 1942, features a huge line-up. Regular people use to eat salmon bagels. The owner Hymne will seat you. While waiting you'll find postcards and reviews from all over the world including from Albert Prince of Monaco.  
• 45.534623 -73.582937 16 Byblos , 1499 ave Laurier est ( at rue Fabre; metro Laurier, bus 27 or 45 ), ☏ +1 514-523-9396 . Tu-Su 09:00-23:00 . One of the best unknown restaurants in Montreal. Prices are amazingly reasonable for the food quality. Iranian food.  
• 45.520479 -73.582717 17 Chez Doval , 150 rue Marie-Anne est ( at rue de Bullion; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 29, 30, 55, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-843-3390 . 11:00-00:00 daily . Portuguese grill.  
• 45.520908 -73.576773 18 Chu Chai , 4088 rue Saint-Denis ( between ave Duluth and rue Rachel; metro Sherbrooke, bus 29 or 30 ), ☏ +1 514-843-4194 . M-Sa 12:00-15:00 and 17:00-22:00, Su 12:00-15:00 and 17:00-21:00 . A treat for vegetarians, vegans, and those who love them. Chu Chai specializes in Thai cuisine made with soy or vegetable protein to simulate meat. The roast "duck" is delicious, and the tom yum gai (lemongrass soup with "chicken") warms the heart. A bistro and takeout counter next door called "Chuch" has the same dishes in a more casual setting and is "bring your own wine". $15-20 .  
• 45.520947 -73.575574 19 Eduardos , 404 ave Duluth est ( at rue Saint-Denis; metro Sherbrooke, bus 29 or 30 ), ☏ +1 514-843-3330 . M-Th 11:00-23:00, F 11:00-00:00, Sa 15:00-00:00 Su 15:00-23:00 . Good Italian restaurant, bring your wine!  
• 45.52187 -73.574726 20 Khyber Pass , 506 ave Duluth est ( at rue Berri; metro Sherbrooke, bus 29 or 30 ), ☏ +1 514-844-7131 . 17:00-23:00 daily . Afghan. Bring your own wine.  
• 45.526709 -73.580279 21 L'Avenue , 922 ave du Mont-Royal est ( between rue de Mentana and rue Saint-André; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11 or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-523-8780 . Su-W 08:00-16:00, Th-Sa 08:00-23:00 . Famous for their eggs Benedict.  
• 45.526568 -73.573562 22 [dead link] Le Poisson Rouge , 1201 rue Rachel est ( at rue de la Roche; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 14, or 29 ), ☏ +1 514-522-4876 . Tu-Sa 17:00-22:00 . A seafood BYOB with a wonderful prix fixe . The maitre d' is friendly and knows everything about each fish and its preparation.  
• Le Majestique , 4105 Boul St-Laurent . Highly rated kitsch-nautical-themed retro diner serving oysters and other tapas-style eats and offerings from a full bar, open late. ( updated Oct 2016 )
• 45.521556 -73.593869 23 La Chronique , 104 ave Laurier ouest ( at rue Saint-Urbain; metro Laurier, bus 51, 55, or 80 ), ☏ +1 514-271-3095 . Lunch: M-F 11:30-14:00; dinner: 18:00-22:00 daily . Has a casual feel until you see the astonishing creations of master chef Marc de Canck of Belgium. The table d'hôte with wines is perfect in just about every way, but don't get it if you have to ask what it costs. $28-150 .  
• 45.520286 -73.574423 24 L'Express , 3927 rue St-Denis ( between ave Duluth and rue Roy; metro Sherbrooke, bus 30 or 144 ), ☏ +1 514-845-5333 . M-F 08:00-02:00, Sa 10:00-02:00, Su 10:00-01:00 . A real French bistro with a zinc bar. Tartare, moules, quiche, rilettes. A splurge, but worth it.  

The Plateau is full of watering holes and the best thing to do is just wander and discover for yourself. Starting west and moving east, Bar des Pins (formerly Pines Tavern and featured in Mordechai Richler novels) is famous with the McGill set for Tuesday night beer pong. On southeast corner of Prince Arthur and St-Laurent is Vol de Nuit, a good place to start the night, especially in warmer weather when the terrace is open. Boulevard St-Laurent from Prince Arthur to Mount-Royal has a good mix of bars and clubs, from classy to downright sketchy. Korova (named after the bar in "A Clockwork Orange") is up a flight of stairs, has great music, and is popular with the hippest kids around. Nearby, also on St-Laurent below Duluth, is Frappe, a bar and pool hall, and Jupiter Room. Further north, on the corner of Clarke (one west of St-Laurent) and Laurier Ave. is Dieu de Ciel, a brasserie that brews its own spectacular beer.

• 45.523454 -73.583267 1 Bily Kun , 354 ave du Mont-Royal est ( at rue Drolet; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 30, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-845-5392 . 15:00-03:00 daily . Bily Kun — the name is Czech, meaning "White Horse" — is an institution in Montreal's Plateau district. Dim lighting, candles, and a huge bar give an intimate atmosphere, but Bily Kun gets hopping after 22:00 with Montreal's hippest Francophones practically every night. Some of the area's top DJs spin experimental or loungey techno, but there's really no dance floor to speak of. Bar staff is kooky and nice, even if no one can quite explain the ostrich heads lining the walls. Upstairs O Patro Vys from the same owners frequently hosts small shows and events. $4.50 draft beers, $5 well drinks .  
• 45.523928 -73.582486 2 Quai des Brumes , 4481 rue Saint-Denis ( at ave du Mont-Royal; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 30, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-499-0467 . Very small and comfy watering hole in the heart of St. Denis near Parc du Mont-Royal. Velvet drapes, wood finish, and a chrome bar. Sometimes has live entertainment, which becomes a very intimate experience due to the small size.  
• 45.522172 -73.590704 3 Casa Del Popolo/La Sala Rossa , 4873 boul Saint-Laurent ( between boul Saint-Joseph and rue Villeneuve; metro Laurier, bus 46, 51, or 55 ), ☏ +1 514-284-3804 . Established in September 2000, Casa Del Popolo is Montréal's only family-run neighborhood vegetarian hot-spot! Part fair-trade café, part music venue, part bar, part foosball hall. The Casa and its sister venue, La Sala Rossa, frequently host touring indie artists. Shows are cheap (sometimes free!). Try the goat cheese sandwich!  
• 45.517267 -73.579334 4 [formerly dead link] Le Réservoir , 9 ave Duluth est ( at boul Saint-Laurent; metro Mont-Royal, bus 29 or 55 ), ☏ +1 514-849-7779 . Brewpub. Very good snacks and tapas in a beautiful decor, there's a second floor upstairs.  
• 45.514559 -73.574356 5 Bifteck , 3702 boul Saint-Laurent ( at rue Guibault; metro Sherbrooke, bus 29, 55, or 144 ), ☏ +1 514-844-6211 . 14:00-03:00 daily . Some of the cheapest beer in town, served with some of the saltiest popcorn in all of Creation, consumed by bohemians and students from near and far (and the occasional honest-to-God rock star). Great place to start or end a St-Laurent pub crawl: to the south, you'll find trendy, relatively expensive places; to the north, some of the best dive bars anywhere. Or you can just stay and get tanked.  
• 45.514407 -73.574046 6 Go Go Lounge , 3682 boul Saint-Laurent ( between rue Guibault and rue Prince Arthur; metro Sherbrooke, bus 29, 55, or 144 ), ☏ +1 514-286-0882 . It's on the trendier part of St-Laurent, it looks trendy outwardly, the martini menu is certainly hip and happenin', but there's something missing: attitude. Anyone is made to feel welcome here and if there's a velvet rope and a doorman, it's only because the place really is full.  
• 45.51685 -73.574616 7 Else's , 156 rue Roy est ( at rue de Bullion; metro Sherbrooke, bus 29, 30, 55, or 144 ), ☏ +1 514-286-6689 . 12:00-03:00 daily . Small, cozy space with a great selection of draft beers and fine whiskeys. It's a restaurant, but you're better off eating elsewhere and just picking at the mandatory nosh (bowl of olives, etc.)  
• 45.522699 -73.593368 8 Dieu du Ciel , 29 ave Laurier ouest ( at rue Clark; metro Laurier, bus 46, 51, or 55 ), ☏ +1 514-490-9555 . M-F 15:00-03:00, Sa Su 13:00-03:00 . One of the best brew pubs in Montreal, it has a nice atmosphere for discussions between friends.  
• 45.521556 -73.585289 9 Le Salon Daomé , 141 ave du Mont-Royal est ( at rue de Bullion; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 55, or 97 ). A little hard to find, small door leads to the nightclub upstairs. Tip: find the door man!  

Dance clubs

• 45.5155 -73.5756 10 Muzique , 3781 Boulevard Saint-Laurent . F Sa 22:00-03:00, Su 22:30-03:00 . A high-end destination, with 2 dance floors with eclectic DJ–spun beats, and a rooftop terrace overlooking Mount Royal ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 45.5331 -73.5754 11 La Tulipe , 4530 Papineau Ave . Concert hall & club in a 1913 theatre, with themed dance nights, plus rock & jazz shows.  
• 45.520289 -73.57838 1 Auberge Chez Jean , 4136 ave Henri Julien ( between rue Rachel and ave Duluth; metro Mont-Royal, bus 29 or 30 ), ☏ +1 514-843-8279 . Backpackers hotel with free breakfast and free wifi. $20 dorms .  
• 45.52327 -73.581963 2 [dead link] Le Bleu Balcon , 4420 rue Saint-Denis ( between ave du Mont-Royal and rue Marie-Anne; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 30, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-982-0030 , toll-free: +1-866-982-0030 , [email protected] . Check-in: 16:00-18:00 , check-out: 10:30 . Small, three-room, bed and breakfast in a typical Plateau apartment building. Shared bathrooms. $79-109 for two people .  
• 45.524369 -73.582347 3 [dead link] Hotel Stay Mont-Royal , 438 ave du Mont-Royal est ( at rue Rivard; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 30, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-661-0873 , [email protected] . European-style with shared bathrooms, free Wi-Fi. $50-65 .  
• 45.52146 -73.577012 4 Anne ma soeur Anne , 4119 rue Saint-Denis ( between rue Rachel and ave Duluth; metro Mont-Royal, bus 29 or 30 ), ☏ +1 514-281-3187 , toll-free: +1-877-281-3187 , fax : +1 514-281-1601 , [email protected] . Boutique studio-hotel. $72-195 .  
• 45.525365 -73.580179 5 [dead link] A la Bonne Heure , 4425 rue Saint-Hubert ( between ave du Mont-Royal and rue Marie-Anne; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 30, or 97 ), ☏ +1 514-529-0179 , [email protected] . Charming new bed and breakfast just above Parc Lafontaine, two blocks from Mont-Royal shopping, restaurants, nightlife. Only four rooms, so book ahead. $75-115 shared bath, $105-160 private bath .  
• 45.529907 -73.567659 6 Chez Francois Bed and Breakfast , 4031 ave Papineau ( between rue Gauthier and rue Rachel; bus 24, 29, or 45 ), ☏ +1 514-239-4638 , [email protected] . Located in the lower Plateau area, close to Duluth restaurants, Saint-Laurent nightlife and more. Five rooms in a typical Montreal walk up, lovingly maintained by Francois, an accommodating host who has excellent suggestions for tourists, as well as preparing wonderful complimentary breakfasts. Free parking available. $95-125 single occupancy, $120-150 double occupancy .  
• 45.517801 -73.568809 7 The Hôtel de l'Institut , 3535 rue Saint-Denis ( at rue de Rigaud; metro Sherbrooke, bus 24, 30, or 144 ), ☏ +1 514-282-5120 , toll-free: +1-800-361-5111 ext 5120 , fax : +1 514-873-9893 , [email protected] . Located between the Latin Quarter and Plateau Mont-Royal, facing one of Montréal’s most charming green spaces, Square Saint-Louis. Free breakfast. From $149 .  
• 45.527673 -73.572642 8 Auberge de la Fontaine , 1301 rue Rachel est ( at rue Chambord; metro Mont-Royal, bus 11, 14, or 29 ), ☏ +1 514-597-0166 , toll-free: +1-800-597-0597 . Fun bed and breakfast with 25 rooms across the street from Parc Lafontaine. $100-280 .  

• Has custom banner
• Has mapframe
• Has map markers
• Articles with dead external links
• Articles with formerly dead external links
• Eat listing with no coordinates
• Has routebox
• All destination articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Usable districts
• Usable articles
• District articles
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

©Marc Bruxelle/Shutterstock

Parc du Mont-Royal

Top choice in Montréal

The charming, leafy expanse of Parc du Mont-Royal is charged for a wide range of outdoor activities. The wooded slopes and grassy meadows have stunning views that make it all the more popular for jogging, picnicking, horseback riding, cycling and throwing Frisbees. Winter brings skating, tobogganing and cross-country skiing. 

Montréalers are proud of their "mountain," so don’t call it a hill as Oscar Wilde did when he visited the city in the 1880s. The park was laid out by Frederick Law Olmsted, the architect of New York’s Central Park. The idea came from bourgeois residents in the adjacent Golden Square Mile who fretted about vanishing greenery.

Contrary to what people may try to tell you, this place is not an extinct volcano. Rather, Parc du Mont-Royal is a hangover from when magma penetrated the earth’s crust millions of years ago. This formed a sort of erosion-proof rock, so while time and the elements were wearing down the ground around it, the 761ft-high (232m) hunk of rock stood firm.

Bird-watching

Parc du Mont-Royal has some fantastic bird-watching opportunities, particularly in spring. A great number of migratory birds use the area as a passage on their way to breeding grounds. In both the park and in nearby Cimetière Mont-Royal, look out for screech owls, red-shouldered hawks, northern orioles, rose-breasted grosbeaks, bluebirds, olive-sided flycatchers, indigo buntings and many more species. In winter hardy bird-lovers come out for walks along the bird-feeder circuit that goes around the Summit Loop (the park places feeders out from November to April).  Contact Les Amis de la Montagne , located at Maison Smith , for information on guided walks.

Head to Belvédère Kondiaronk at Chalet du Mont-Royal and Belvédère Camillien-Houde lookout for astonishing views of Montréal and surrounding landscapes.

Cemeteries 

On the north side of the park lie two enormous cemeteries: Cimetière Mont-Royal is Protestant and nondenominational, while Cimetière Notre-Dame-des-Neiges is Catholic. The latter has several interesting mausoleums. The Pietà Mausoleum contains a full-scale marble replica of Michelangelo’s famous sculpture in St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Other mausoleums in the cemetery emit solemn music, including that of Marguerite Bourgeoys, a nun and teacher who was beatified in 1982 – for more details on her life, visit the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours. Built in 2007, the Esther Blondin Mausoleum is a modern facility housing 6000 crypts and niches, reflecting the increasing popularity of communal memorial spaces.

Top tips for visiting Parc du Mont-Royal

• There's much to experience on Mont-Royal, but it's wise to have a plan before you go.
• There are park info centers at Chalet du Mont-Royal and Maison Smith. You'll also find loads of info online (including a handy map).
• Head to Lac aux Castors for winter sports and summer boating.
• Binoculars are a good idea for the bird feeders set up along some walking trails.
• Note that walking in the park after sunset isn’t a safe idea.

How to get there

Walkers will find main entry points on Rue Drummond and Peel in downtown and Rue Rachel in the Plateau. Alternatively, take bus 11 from Mont-Royal metro. There are two parking lots in the park.

1260 Chemin Remembrance

Get In Touch

514-843-8240

https://​www​.lemontroyal​.qc​.ca​/

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montréal

Montréal’s Museum of Fine Arts is an accessible and beautifully updated oasis of art housed in architecturally striking buildings. A visit here is a must…

Basilique Notre-Dame

Montréal's famous landmark, Notre Dame Basilica, is a 19th-century Gothic Revival masterpiece with spectacular craftsmanship – a visually pleasing, if…

Oratoire St-Joseph

The stunning Oratoire St-Joseph church built on the flanks of Mont-Royal commands grand views of the the Côte-des-Neiges area and northwest Montréal. The…

Jardin Botanique

Montréal’s Jardin Botanique is the third-largest botanical garden in the world, after London’s Kew Gardens and Berlin’s Botanischer Garten.

Place d'Armes

This open square is framed by some of the finest buildings in Old Montréal, including its oldest bank, first skyscraper and Basilique Notre-Dame. The…

Pointe-à-Callière Cité d'archéologie et d'histoire de Montréal

One of Montréal's most fascinating sites, this museum takes visitors on a historical journey through the centuries, beginning with the early days of…

Montréal's Old Port has morphed into a park and fun zone paralleling the mighty St Lawrence River for 2.5km and punctuated by four grand quais (quays)…

Canal de Lachine

A perfect marriage of urban infrastructure and green civic planning: a 14km-long cycling and pedestrian pathway, with picnic areas and outdoor spaces…

Nearby Montréal attractions

1 . Chalet du Mont-Royal

Constructed in 1932, this grand old white villa, complete with bay windows, contains canvases that depict scenes of Montréal history. You’ll also see…

2 . Belvédère Kondiaronk lookout

There are excellent views of downtown from this wide semicircular vantage point fronting the Chalet du Mont-Royal. To the left you can even make out the…

3 . Maison Smith

Constructed in 1858 by a merchant who wanted to get away from the pollution and overpopulation of the rest of Montréal, this house contains a small…

4 . Croix du Mont-Royal

About 550m north of Kondiaronk lookout stands the Mont-Royal Cross, one of Montréal’s most familiar landmarks. Made of reinforced steel, the 31-meter-tall…

5 . Musée Redpath

A Victorian spirit of discovery pervades this old natural-history museum, though you won’t find anything more gruesome than stuffed animals from the…

6 . Belvédère Camillien-Houde

This is the most popular lookout on Mont-Royal thanks to its accessibility and large parking lot. Naturally enough, it’s a magnet for couples once night…

7 . Le Château

This fortress-like apartment complex from 1926 was designed by the famed Montréal architects George Ross and Robert MacDonald. It's worth passing by its…

8 . Musée des Beaux-Arts, Claire & Marc Bourgie Pavilion

Part of the Musée des Beaux-Arts, this pavilion is situated in a renovated 1894 church across the road and displays some magnificent works of Canadian and…

33 Epic Things to Do in Montreal (Perfect First Time Visit)

Things to do in montreal: the 33 best places to visit (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Montreal during your next trip and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 33 best things to do in Montreal , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to my list of things to do and activities, I will also give you optimized itineraries to visit Montreal in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even 1 week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Montreal? Where to stay?

1. The Plateau-Mont-Royal

2. old montreal, 3. old port of montreal: best things to see and do, 4. saint catherine street, 5. montreal olympic stadium, 6. montreal botanical garden, 7. the montreal biodome, 8. the must-visit museums in montreal, 9. the churches of montreal, 10. visit saint joseph’s oratory, 11. montreal’s markets, 12. the village, montreal’s gay district, 13. best things to do in montreal at night, 14. visiting mount royal park in winter, 15. where to ice skate in montreal, 16. the montreal snow festival – fêtes des neiges, 17. more winter activities in montreal, 18. visiting mount royal park in summer, 19. the lachine canal, 20. jet boat/spin boat on the saint lawrence river, 21. a day out at jean-drapeau park, 22. la ronde, montreal’s amusement park, 23. stroll in other montreal parks, 24. mont saint-sauveur water park, 25. osheaga, 26. igloofest, 27. the light festival – montréal en lumière, 28. just for laughs festival, 29. autumn at mont-tremblant, 30. cap-saint-jacques nature park, 31. parc omega in montebello, 32. more activities around montreal, rockaberry for a sumptuous cheesecake, taste la banquise’s poutine, weekend brunch in montreal, montreal’s chinatown, the best restaurant in montreal, timeout market montreal, microbreweries in montreal, where to stay in montreal, grocery shopping in montreal, where to find affordable cheese in montreal, renting or buying cheap winter sports gear, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you, visit montreal: all must-see attractions (winter + summer).

The Plateau-Mont-Royal is the quintessential “hip” neighborhood, making it the perfect starting point for this rundown of the must-see places in Montreal !

This area is well-renowned and particularly loved by French people, be they tourists or expats choosing it as their initial landing spot. So don’t expect to hear much of the Quebecois accent here!

The typical houses with exterior staircases and colorful facades add heaps of charm to the Plateau, and it’s a real delight to wander around in any season.

The neighborhood is buzzing with shops, restaurants, bars, and thrift stores spread over 4 main arteries. Perfect setup for a leisurely stroll around Montreal :

• St Laurent Boulevard , where a host of cultural communities have set up their shops
• St Denis Street , renowned for its avenue filled with terrace cafes
• Prince Arthur Street , bursting with restaurants
• Mont Royal Avenue , home to trendy bars and fashion boutiques.

Where to eat in Plateau Mont-Royal?

Here you’ll find the 2 famous restaurants that I’ll tell you more about later on:

• La Banquise with its poutines
• L’Avenue and its famous brunch.

But you can also feast at the “Saint Viateur” with a wide selection of bagels or the “ Mont-Royal Hot dog ” joint, with its charmingly outdated American diner vibe (and fantastic brunch potatoes!).

Nestled between the Saint Lawrence River and downtown skyscrapers, the Old Montreal district is the historical go-to spot in Montreal.

To explore it, stop at the “Place d’Armes” or “Champ-de-Mars” metro station .

Points of interest during this must-do visit in Montreal include:

• The old Sulpician seminary : Montreal’s oldest existing building
• Notre-Dame Basilica : I’ll talk more about this further down
• The Quebec Bank Building : built in 1888, it’s Montreal’s first “skyscraper” although just 8 stories high
• Saint Jacques Street : Montreal’s “Wall Street”
• Place d’Youville : a green oasis offering tranquil vibes
• The three courthouses
• The City Hall , best admired in the evening for its façade light display
• Jacques Cartier Square , perfect for a leisurely drink on a terrace
• Bonsecours Market , boasting luxury boutiques and temporary exhibitions.

To not miss a thing in Old Montreal and gain historical explanations about all the monuments, you should go for a guided tour .

This 4-hour walking tour covers both the East and West of Old Montreal, offering a comprehensive journey.

Book your guided tour in Montreal by clicking the green button below:

If you’re only spending a short time in Montreal before heading off on your Quebec itinerary or if you’re not a fan of walking, you can also get a great overview of the city by booking a guided bus tour .

The route includes the Old Montreal , the Old Port , the Mount Royal , the Saint Joseph Oratory and the Olympic Park . These are all places I recommend you to see in this tourist guide of Montreal.

Book your Montreal guided bus tour by clicking directly here!

The Old Port is part of the historic district of Old Montreal . It’s another perfect spot for a walk .

It’s not really a functioning port anymore since all the port activity has been relocated. Rather, it offers a wonderful walk along the Saint Lawrence River , especially near the clock tower with a view of the Jacques Cartier bridge.

A whole slew of activities await you here, whether it’s summer (think cycling, rollerblading, leapfrog, horse-drawn carriage rides) or winter (get ready for ice skating, ice fishing).

But there are 3 activities I absolutely recommend (click on the orange links to book) :

• A cruise on the Saint Lawrence River to admire Montreal from a fresh perspective. Book here !
• This cruise is also available in the evening (click here!) and comes with a fantastic five-course dinner. Perfect for a romantic outing in Montreal!
• A spin on the Great Wheel , which is the biggest Ferris wheel in Canada . You’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the city! Book your ticket for the Great Wheel at the Old Port of Montreal by clicking right here !
• A ride on the urban zipline , the longest in Canada. Book here !

As you wander around, I’d also suggest dropping by the Montreal Science Centre , tucked away at the far end of the port.

It offers a wide range of fun, interactive exhibitions that change quite often. It’s an excellent activity if you’re wondering what to do in Montreal with kids. The centre also features an IMAX cinema for 3D documentaries.

Find all the information about the exhibitions, prices, and IMAX cinema schedule on the Montreal Science Centre website .

Not far from the Science Centre, I also recommend visiting the Pointe-à-Callière Museum , the only major archaeology museum in Canada covering a period from the Indigenous era to the present day. It’s the most visited museum in Montreal.

It offers permanent exhibitions on the history and archaeology of the city .

I also recommend trying the museum restaurant , which I’ll talk more about later in this article.

If you’re wondering where to go shopping in Montreal , look no further than Saint Catherine Street , an eminent boulevard recognized for its vibrant shopping scene.

Stretching for a whopping 11km, of which 3km are purely dedicated to retail therapy , it’s home to over 1,000 shops, bars, restaurants and major shopping centres such as Eaton Centre and Montreal Trust .

All the usual suspects are there, from H&M and Forever 21, to Victoria’s Secret and Urban Outfitters.

To get there, simply hop on the metro to Mc Gill station, which sits conveniently in the Eaton Centre.

In winter, you won’t even need to brave the snow for your shopping spree.

Montreal boasts an impressive 30km underground pedestrian network connecting a number of buildings, including the downtown shopping centres.

Built for the 1976 Olympic Games, the stadium has become one of the city’s internationally recognised symbols thanks to its distinctive architecture and iconic tower .

This is a fascinating place to visit in Montreal on a guided tour, discovering its history through an exhibition retracing its construction and featuring many sports memorabilia .

Next, take the glass funicular to climb to the top of the stadium’s tower, which happens to be the world’s highest inclined tower (165 meters high with a 45-degree inclination). At the top, you’ll be greeted by an amazing panoramic view of the Montreal region .

If you happen to be around after the sun sets, don’t forget that the Montreal Olympic Stadium is quite a sight to see when it’s all lit up.

For a different perspective of the Olympic Stadium, downtown, and Mount Royal, you should book a helicopter tour of Montreal .

This is one of the most important botanical gardens in the world , with its 75 hectares hosting more than 20,000 plant species, 10 exhibition greenhouses and over twenty themed gardens.

I was totally captivated by the Chinese pavilions . They’re absolutely amazing, adorned with gorgeous pagodas amidst water features and a multitude of lively koi fish.

Also worth checking out are the Japanese garden, the aquatic garden, and the rose garden . The greenhouses offer a journey into the plant life from both arid landscapes and the lush tropical rainforest.

The botanical garden also houses an insectarium with over 250,000 specimens of live or preserved insects. You can also find yourself amidst hundreds of butterflies fluttering freely in a greenhouse specifically dedicated for them.

Each year, the Montreal Botanical Garden transforms into a garden of light with its lantern festival . Special light structures, created just for the occasion, are cleverly incorporated into the garden décor, enhancing its charm. It’s simply stunning.

If you’re planning a winter trip to Montreal, the botanical garden is also a great visit and it’s free!

A lot of folks make the most of it by cross-country skiing or snowshoeing along the flat trails. The garden’s trail networks communicate with Maisonneuve Park and offer nearly 10 kilometers of track . You’ll need to bring your own equipment as the garden doesn’t offer rentals.

For more information about the garden and the prices, check out the botanical garden’s website .

Another must-visit spot in Montreal (especially if you have kids!): the Biodome

It provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the ecosystems of the American continent through its exceptionally crafted layout. Through a clever system that mirrors the seasons, the natural conditions such as temperature and humidity are meticulously recreated.

You can observe the fauna and flora of 5 different ecosystems :

• The tropical rainforest : lush vegetation with temperatures around 28 degrees, where you can see piranhas , caimans , parrots and capybaras.
• The Laurentian maple forest : a typically Quebecois forest with maple and birch trees, and a chance for observing lynxes, otters, and beavers .
• The Gulf of Saint Lawrence : represented by a basin containing no less than 2.5 million liters of sea water with cod, bass, salmon and on the beach numerous ducks and seagulls.
• The Arctic and Antarctic : where you’ll be able to admire an entire colony of penguins .

To plan your visit, you can get all the necessary details on the Montreal Biodome’s official website .

In Montreal, culture and art hold a significant place.

In addition to the Pointe à Callière Museum, the Biodome, and the Science Center I mentioned earlier, there are over 50 different museums in Montreal .

Here’s my pick of the top museums to see during your visit to Montreal :

• Montreal Museum of Fine Arts , located 1380 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
• Contemporary Art Museum (MAC) , 185 Saint Catherine West Street
• McCord Museum : Items related to Canadian history, and particularly to indigenous culture. 690 Sherbrooke Street West
• Saint-Gabriel House : This charming traditional dwelling holds more than 300 years of history within its walls. Animations in traditional costumes and various activities are available on site, including a New France-style meal at the Refectory! Very lively, it’s the best history museum in Montreal in my opinion. 2146, place Dublin – Pointe-Saint-Charles
• Montreal Firefighters’ Museum (MBAM): Open only on Sundays from 1pm to 4pm, located 5100 Boulevard Saint-Laurent.
• Redpath Museum : The program includes paleontology, zoology, mineralogy, and a carnivorous dinosaur skeleton in this free museum (donations appreciated). 59 Sherbrooke West Street

You’re going to Montreal?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Montreal 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Montreal on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Montreal.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Montreal, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Montreal!

Let’s continue this Montreal guide with the must-see churches.

The most renowned is without a doubt the Notre Dame Basilica of Montreal , nestled in Old Montreal, which I’ve given a nod to earlier. The interior of this 60m high neo-Gothic building is sublime!

To the best of my understanding, it’s the solitary place of worship in Montreal that asks for an admission fee. The proceeds go towards the upkeep and refurbishment of this significant religious monument in Quebec.

A 20-minute guided tour is included in the entrance fee , but you can also visit freely.

Here are a few other places of worship that I found profoundly striking during my Montreal adventure, thanks to their extraordinary architecture!

• Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Montreal Saint-Édouard Church
• St. James United Church
• St. George’s Anglican Church.

On the list of things to do in Montreal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, located in the Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood is a must for its exceptional architecture, but also to get a sense of the importance of religious life in early 20th century Quebec.

This imposing building built on the slopes of Mount Royal is nearly 100 meters high and is topped by a mammoth dome 39 meters in diameter . It’s even more impressive on the inside!

Aside from the Oratory, you can also pop into Brother André’s quaint little chapel , and wander around the gardens with its Way of the Cross where you’ll spot a whole host of intriguing sculptures .

Feeling a bit full from all the poutine, burgers, and brunches? How about taking a trip to one of Montreal’s three major markets to scoop up some fresh and delightful local produce , or simply soak in the lively atmosphere of the colorful stalls:

• Atwater Market – perfectly located by the Lachine Canal, it’s renowned for its butcheries and cheesemongers. For those who’ve got a fondness for fromage, you can grab 3 cheeses for a mere 10 bucks here – an absolute steal in Canada, I promise you!
• Jean Talon Market – nestled in Little Italy , you’ll find fresh fruits and veggies, and a plethora of goods from around the globe, from Polish pastries to French crepes.
• Maisonneuve Market – complete with fishmongers, greengrocers, bakers, and florists stalls.

Another iconic spot to check out in Montreal is Le Village, Montreal’s gay district .

A sterling example of the tolerance and diversity that are the hallmarks of Quebec. Recognized around the world as a hot spot for LGBTQ+ tourism , this energetic neighborhood is a delight to stroll through with its cafes, bars, restaurants, nightclubs , and a delightful streetscape!

In the summer, Saint Catherine Street in Le Village transforms into a vibrant pedestrian zone , so that’s the prime time to revel in it.

Here are a few hot spots in Le Village:

• The Cabaret Mado with its wacky drag queen shows
• Le Sky , one of Montreal’s top nightclubs.
• Le Mousso , one of the city’s best restaurants.

What could be more delightful than enjoying an evening cocktail with friends ? Well, in Montreal, that’s a piece of cake as you’ll find an abundance of bars and breweries practically everywhere!

You’ll also find plenty of joints where you can have a drink while playing board games . Be it classics like Monopoly or Jungle Speed, or some downright obscure games you’ve never heard of!

When I was living in Montreal, I used to frequent Randolph , but there are other game bars and restaurants worth checking out, such as: Colonel Moutarde , La Récréation , or Meltdown .

There’s also a wide array of diverse shows, including comedy shows , which are a really popular thing on this side of the Atlantic. You can head to Montreal Comedy Club or The Comedy Nest .

If you’re not in the mood for laughs but rather a bit of a scare, I also recommend a nighttime tour themed “The Ghosts of Old Montreal” . Accompanied by a guide, you’ll trace the spirits that haunt the historic center!

You can book your spot by clicking the button below:

And for a spicier version of a night out in Montreal , you should know that strip clubs are quite common in the city.

For the ladies*, I suggest Club 281 . Also known as a “male dancers bar” it offers Chippendales-style strip teases on stage, as well as “ private shows ” where you can pay for a dance with someone.

*Men are welcome to attend the shows if accompanied by a woman.

Winter delights in Montreal

Below, I present to you my selection of the best places to go in Montreal during winter .

Mount Royal Park is Montreal’s largest park , and in winter, its paths, hills, and pond transform for you to enjoy a variety of winter activities !

You can partake in:

• Sledding : Ideal for some family or friends’ fun, it’s the perfect place to enjoy this activity for free.
• Snow scootering : Like sledding, but standing up, for a change of pace!
• Ice skating : In winter, the beaver lake turns into a free public ice rink for everyone to enjoy. Take advantage!
• Cross-country skiing : The trails on Mount Royal provide an opportunity to indulge in this sport amidst beautiful natural surroundings, just a stone’s throw from the city.
• Snowshoeing : A great alternative to cross-country skiing!

If you don’t have your own equipment, don’t worry. You can rent everything (except sleds) at the beaver lake pavilion, which also serves as a cozy little restaurant to warm up after a fun glide session.

You can also opt for a guided snowshoe hike organized by the park. Your guide will take you on a 2-hour stroll through Mount Royal and introduce you to the local wildlife along the way .

The tour is highly engaging and even perfect for families with children (ages 8 and up).

Book in advance by clicking here !

And if you’re looking for a unique activity to do in Montreal , you’ll be pleased to know that you can also go night snowshoeing with a guide from the Amis de la montagne (Friends of the Mountain Association).

To book, click here:

To reach Mount Royal Park, you can take STM Bus No. 11 that goes all the way up to the hilltop in the park.

Ice skating is a quintessential winter activity in Quebec .

In Montreal, it’s hard not to get in on this action as each neighbourhood has its own charming little outdoor rink, free of charge . Kiddos can dip their toes into skating with minimal danger, and the grown-ups can engage in the sport that gets Montreal’s heart racing: hockey .

But the most picturesque place to lace up your skates is at Montreal’s Old Port. While there is a fee to skate on this large rink, the sight of the Old Port and Saint Lawrence River is simply stunning. It’s the trendiest place to skate in the city.

In addition to the Beaver Lake at Mount Royal Park that we previously mentioned, another bustling winter spot for ice skating in Montreal is Lafontaine Park .

Here, you’ll even see numerous parents skating while pushing their strollers on the ice ! Access to the ice is free. If you don’t have your own skates, you can rent a pair for $10.

The “Fêtes des Neiges”, Montreal snow festival , is a must-attend family event held each winter. It takes place over four weekends between January and February at Jean-Drapeau Park . Entrance is free but some activities have additional costs.

All your favorite winter activities from Quebec are showcased here: ice sculpture workshops, tube sliding (on inflatables), skating, dog sledding, ziplining, musical performances.

You can also indulge in traditional Quebecois treats like maple taffy, beaver tails, and obviously, poutine .

1) Ice Fishing

You can try ice fishing right in the city, specifically at the Old Port of Montreal . It’s certainly a less immersive experience than deep in the heart of Quebec, but it’s a great way to enjoy this activity if you’re short on time for a weekend getaway!

You’ll also be able to ski near Montreal .

Alpine skiing is a must-do winter activity in Quebec, and while it’s not the Alps, here are some friendly ski resorts:

• Mont Saint Bruno : Just 30 minutes from downtown, it doesn’t get much closer to Montreal! A favorite among city-dwellers, this small resort has 15 slopes.
• Mont-Rigaud : Also just 30 minutes from Montreal, this tiny 9-slope resort is known as the perfect place for beginners.
• Bromont : To the southeast of Montreal, about an hour’s drive away, is the Bromont ski resort, with a domain boasting 141 slopes.
• Mont Saint-Sauveur : An hour from Montreal, with its 40 slopes, it’s “Viking” roller coaster, numerous restaurants, concerts, and events, it’s a delightful place for a weekend! Mont Saint-Sauveur also has an excellent snowpark for freestyle lovers!
• Mont-Tremblant : The farthest ski resort from Montreal in this list, requiring a 1.5-hour drive. However, with its 96 slopes, charming “village” and après-ski activities, it’s one of Quebec’s most popular resorts.

3) Spas and hot baths

This activity, enjoyable all year round, is especially magical in winter! In Montreal, several spas offer outdoor hot baths throughout the year. Here are some of the most well-known:

• Strom Nordic Spa on Nuns’ Island (Île-des-Sœurs)
• Spa Bota Bota , in Old Montreal
• Scandinave Spa , also located in Old Montreal.

Visiting Montreal in the summer

Summer in Montreal, contrary to what you might think, it’s really hot ! So don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and a hat for your excursions.

Mount Royal Park, a highly renowned tourist spot in Montreal, has several shaded trails for cool walks and numerous vantage points with great city views .

Be sure to stop by the Mount Royal lookout for a panorama of the entire downtown area.

The park is also an ideal spot for jogging or cycling.

In summer, it’s the perfect place to have a picnic by the Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors) , an artificial lake surrounded by a kids’ playground and various amenities, including a bar-restaurant with a terrace .

You can spot numerous curious and friendly squirrels there. A must-see during your stay in Montreal!

If you’re wondering what else to visit in Montreal, I suggest heading over to the Lachine Canal, located in the southwest of the city . Its 14.5-kilometer route starts from the old port and ends at Lake Saint-Louis .

In summer, it’s a dream spot for safely cycling along its tree-lined, well-maintained banks. The path is flat and away from traffic, perfect for a family outing in Montreal .

You can rent bicycles near Atwater Market at a small outdoor shack along the canal: Ma Bicyclette .

You can check out the Lachine Canal not just from the banks but also by hopping on different types of watercraft .

A rental service offers pedal boats, canoes, and small electric boats for hire.

The calm waters won’t cause any problems, and you’ll have fun crossing the numerous small locks .

Voici le site du centre nautique de Lachine.

Contrasting with a peaceful walk along the Lachine Canal, you can choose a more exhilarating activity in Montreal: Jet Boating or Saute-Mouton as the locals call it.

You’ll tackle the Lachine Rapids, on the fleuve Saint-Laurent (Saint Lawrence River), aboard a rather special boat: guaranteed thrills! You’ll come out refreshed, or rather soaked.

Perfect for hot days – just bring a change of clothes!

Another idea for a boat trip in Montreal: Spin Boat . This fast boat takes sharp turns and spins around , hence the name.

In groups of about ten people, you’ll board the boat in Old Montreal’s port. The adrenaline rush is definitely guaranteed with an experience that can be compared to water rodeo !

However, it doesn’t venture into the Lachine Rapids , so don’t confuse it with “Saute-Mouton”!

All information is available here!

If you’re looking for some awesome spots to check out in Montreal, let’s head over to Parc Jean-Drapeau . It’s located on two islands just south of Montreal and has a ton of cool outdoor activities to enjoy.

Here’s the plan: 25 km of hiking trails, bike paths, kayak rentals, paddleboarding, rock climbing, wildlife and flora observation, supervised beach, food services, and picnic areas.

You’ll easily spend a whole day here. But, take a tip from me, stay till the sun dips down . That’s when you’ll get the most stunning panorama of downtown, with the city lights reflecting in the river, perfect for snapping some gorgeous photos!

These two islands, Saint Helen and Notre-Dame, which now form Jean Drapeau Park, were actually home to the 1967 World’s Fair .

Most of the pavilions were demolished after the expo, but today, the French pavilion, now the Montreal Casino , and the American pavilion, known as the Biosphere (that I mentionned earlier), remain.

Another relic from the World Expo is the Habitat 67 residential complex , located in Cité du Havre, not far from the park.

Jean Drapeau Park is also renowned for its vibrant music festivals , which I’ll discuss in more detail below. And don’t forget the Canadian F1 Grand Prix , happening every year!

Besides Jean Drapeau Park, on Saint Helen Island you’ll also find “La Ronde” the amusement park , open every summer.

This park boasts 42 attractions including some quite impressive ones, like the “Ultimate Flight”.

To plan your day at La Ronde, you can check out the official website here .

In addition to Mount Royal and Jean Drapeau Park, Montreal boasts many other delightful parks perfect for a break from the city’s bustling pace

1) Angrignon Park

Following Mount Royal, this park is the second-largest forested area in Montreal .

You can stroll along three ponds, a 1km lake, and shaded trails spanning nearly 10km. There’s also a specially designed 2km track for biking and rollerblading , which transforms into a cross-country ski track in winter .

Ideal for a family picnic by the water, barbecues are even available for use . A playground with swings is also on site.

2) Lafontaine Park

It’s one of the largest parks in Montreal city .

What sets it apart are the multiple outdoor sports fields open for free use: tennis, petanque, baseball, volleyball, and children’s playgrounds.

The park also hosts cultural events at the outdoor theater , a delightful spot for evening performances.

Nothing beats a day at a water park to chill out and have a blast.

In Quebec, I recommend the one at Mount Saint-Sauveur , about an hour’s drive from Montreal . It’s an ideal day trip when on a Canadian circuit tour !

This park is huge with its 12 water slides , toboggans , rafting and tubing descents , water games, wave pool , and other outdoor pools.

Festivals in Montreal

Throughout the year, Montreal hosts some brilliant festivals. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss!

Every year, Montreal hosts a massive music festival: Osheaga .

It’s held every summer at Jean Drapeau Park and lasts for three days . During this time, you’ll be treated to some great music. Top bands have performed here: Radiohead, Arcade Fire, Coldplay, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and more.

No doubt, if you want to see all those awesome stars, you’ll have to dish out at least $320 for the three-day festival. But hey, that doesn’t seem to stop the whopping 40,000 people who show up every single day.

Osheaga Festival website

This is the winter electronic music festival you don’t want to miss in Montreal.

Igloofest has been rocking Montreal’s Old Port for about a decade now.

Several DJs from around the world heat up the dance floor over four weekends .

Igloofest website

Another unmissable festival in Quebec during winter if you’ve decided to visit Montreal: the light festival attracting nearly 900,000 people each year.

The Montreal en Lumière program combines light installations , performing arts with theater, circus, singing , and gastronomy.

You can enjoy many free activities (ferris wheel, zipline, giant curling), wander among the light art installations, enjoy various street performances, and sample Quebec culinary specialties at the street stalls.

The festival also includes “La Nuit Blanche”, Montreal’s White Night where you can visit certain museums and churches, participate in dance, singing, or artistic creation workshops, all for free. In total, there are more than 200 activities to enjoy.

Montréal en Lumière website

The “Festival Juste pour rire” or Just for Laughs Festival is a comedy festival held annually in Montreal.

It’s the largest festival of its kind in the world and a true tradition in Quebec. On the agenda: a large number of comedians presenting their shows, both indoors and in the street.

The program is highly diverse and of excellent quality .

Festival Juste pour rire website

Best things to do around Montreal

For those craving the great outdoors, there’s a bunch of things to discover around Montreal . Here’s a little selection of places to visit!

When talking about Quebec, you can’t skip mentioning the special season that characterizes it: autumn and its fiery colors.

If you want to admire this unique landscape firsthand, around Montreal, I recommend heading to Mont-Tremblant, just an hour’s drive away.

In winter, it’s a ski resort but in the fall, the forests take on warm colors, and it’s a profusion of red, orange, and yellow trees as far as the eye can see .

It’s the ideal time for long hikes. You can either hike up the mountain or catch a lift (only on weekends) to reach the top and take in the stunning view of the valley below with its picturesque lake reflecting the vibrant colors.

The Cap-Saint-Jacques is the largest park in the Montreal area , sprawling across a whopping 300 hectares. Whether it’s summer or winter, you’ll be able to take tranquil strolls through this maple tree-dominated spot, nestled between a lake and a river, offering countless stunning views.

In the summer, you’ll have access to a massive natural sandy beach complete with picnic areas, and even pedalos and kayaks for rent. You can even fire up your own barbecue.

Come autumn, Cap-Saint-Jacques, with its west-facing beach, is the best place to watch the sunset over Montreal island. The light is just amazing!

Winter sees the park transform into a haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing , with all the necessary equipment available for rent on-site. You have around 32 kilometers of trails at your disposal. The on-site ecological farm turns into a sugar shack with a typical maple syrup-based menu.

But no matter the season, be sure to watch the sunset over the lake , it’s simply breathtaking and you won’t regret it. The lighting is perfect for some truly incredible photos.

Practical info:

• Open all year round, parking fees apply.
• To get there by public transport, take bus 64 from the Côte-Vertu metro station to the Cartierville terminus, then take bus 68 to the park entrance.

This wildlife park is situated between Montreal and Ottawa , about 110 kilometers from Montreal.

The park can only be explored by car as the animals live freely in their natural habitat.

Along a 10-kilometer trail, you’ll traverse meadows, forests, and lakeshores, giving you the opportunity to spot Quebec’s native wildlife, including moose, elk, black bears, and wolves . You’ll also have plenty of chances to stop and take photos.

You can easily spend half a day here, or even stay overnight! The park offers several unique accommodation options : teepees, prospector tents, wooden cabins, and stilt houses.

It’s one of the best activities to do near Montreal with kids .

Parc Omega is open all year round , hours and prices vary depending on the season, you can find all the information here: Parc Omega .

Still in the Montreal area, you can also try out some super cool activities (click on the orange links to book):

• Dog sledding in Saint-Hippolyte near Montreal
• Dog sled ride through maple groves , near Montreal
• Snowmobile outing near Montreal, in Saint-Hippolyte – Duration: from 1h to 8h
• Snowmobile excursion in the Laurentians , departure from Sainte-Agathe-Des-Monts – Duration: from 2h to a full day
• A guided quad ride near Montreal
• Whitewater rafting down the Red River (Rivière Rouge) in Mont-Tremblant
• A canoe descent on the Assomption River , (Rivière l’Assomption for the locals) in Mont-Tremblant nature park
• Via ferrata between Montreal and Mont-Tremblant, at Mont Catherine
• Zip-lining , also at Mont Catherine
• Ice climbing adventure in Montreal

33. Best things to do in Montreal My top places to eat

For me, this is, hands down, the best cheesecake I’ve ever had!

In Montreal, if you spot a Rockaberry, there’s no way you can walk past their window full of cheesecakes and pies , each looking more delicious than the last.

The hardest part is then choosing between the Rockabrownies, Banalicious, Mochamisu, or any of the fruit crumbles (blueberry, strawberry, raspberry, etc.).

Rockaberry’s website

During your stay in Montreal, you can’t miss trying this iconic Quebec dish ! Loved by some, hated by others, it’s up to you to form your own opinion about poutine .

The traditional poutine is quite simple, and consists of 3 ingredients:

• “Curd cheese”

You can find poutine in all sorts of varieties, from the basic poutine made with frozen fries from a fast food spot to the fancy homemade version with hand-cut fries cooked in duck fat. There’s something for every poutine lover out there!

Poutine is everywhere in Quebec: you can eat it at any hour in restaurants open 24/7. It’s actually the go-to choice for Montrealers after a night out!

Some restaurants even offer no less than a hundred different recipes , but beware, not all are created equal. The two most famous restaurants in Montreal for their poutine are:

• La Banquise , open 24/7.
• Poutineville : a name that speaks for itself!

Montreal is like a haven for brunch enthusiasts ! But what does the Quebec version of this meal, which falls between breakfast and lunch, entail?

The classic brunch you’ll savor in Montreal includes:

• Eggs , cooked in every possible way
• Baked beans or “Fèves au lard” as the locals call it
• Maple syrup , to drizzle all over!
• A coffee or tea and orange juice.

In addition to that, each restaurant has its own specialty and also offers a variety of options such as fresh fruit salad, smoothies, pancakes, crepes, sausages, bagels , and much more.

• L’Avenue , which well deserves its reputation for an excellent brunch, but be warned, expect a long wait before you can indulge.
• Fabergé : This trendy restaurant in Montreal’s Mile-End district serves a fantastic brunch with some original specialties!
• Le Hot Dog : This unassuming spot on the Plateau Mont Royal is a must for potato lovers, because they serve some seriously delicious, well, potatoes!

Another spot where you can dive into culinary adventures is Montreal’s Chinatown , brimming with cute little restaurants offering typical dishes from Chinese cuisine .

Here, you’ll get to try the famous bubble tea , a beverage made with tea, fruit, and tapioca pearls that line the bottom of the glass, sucked up with a fat straw.

Also a must-try: the numerous biscuits or cakes all soft and squishy from the Chinatown’s Chinese bakeries.

In Montreal’s Chinatown, you’ll also find a large Asian grocery store . If you’re staying in Montreal, this is the best place to shop for Asian products!

I just had to mention it, as it’s kind of my canteen in Montreal: “L’Arrivage” restaurant at the Pointe-a-Callière Museum . A foodie myself, I was a bit hesitant to dine at “the museum’s restaurant” the first time, but I came out totally amazed. Honestly .

Located on the museum’s second floor, the restaurant offers a fantastic view of Montreal’s Old Port .

They serve a different gourmet menu every week , and the dishes are truly delicious. I recommend you to try the “Table d’hôtes” menu with a starter, a main course, and dessert for less than $25. At this price, you’ll enjoy a sophisticated meal in an exceptional setting with unrivaled service.

It clearly is the best value for money in Montreal, and by a long shot ! It’s a hidden gem, even among Montrealers.

However, note that the restaurant only opens for lunch!

The TimeOut Market is located on Saint Catherine Ouest street, in the Eaton Centre and brings together more than a dozen of restaurants and bars all in one place .

The atmosphere is really cool, with a chic and modern vibe and carefully crafted decor. You can feast on dishes from all over the world : Indian, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Caribbean, Spanish… The dishes are truly of excellent quality and exceptionnaly well-cooked .

Everyone can pick their favorite dishes and gather at the shared tables in the center. That way, no one has to argue about which restaurant to choose!

Open every day from 11:30 am to 9/10 pm.

Craft beer lovers will be thrilled to learn that Montreal has numerous microbreweries , each with its own specialties! Here are a few addresses:

• Brasserie Harricana , 95 Jean-Talon West Street
• Pub Brouhahah , 295, Avenue Papineau, Ahuntsic
• La Succursale , 3188 Masson Street
• HELM microbrasserie , 273 Bernard O Street
• Dieu du Ciel! 29 Avenue Laurier Ouest

• M Montreal : A youth hostel just a 5-minute walk away from Berri Uquam metro station on Sainte Catherine street. You can grab a bed in a modern, cozy dorm for just 25€ a night, breakfast included. You can also book a double room if you prefer. Strong points: Super friendly staff, modern facilities, basement bar with occasional live performances. A fantastic choice for budget-friendly accommodations in Montreal !
• Best Western Plus Hotel Montreal : Located in the bustling Quartier des Spectacles. You can book a warm, spacious double room starting from €150 per night. Strong points: Perfect location for exploring Montreal, clean and comfy beds.
• Le Dauphin Montréal Centre-Ville: : Just 200 meters away from the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal and a 5-minute walk from the Old Port. Double rooms starting from €170, breakfast included. Strong points: Great location, spacious rooms, and large beds.
• Le Petit Hotel Montreal: : Located in the historical center of Montreal. Rooms with character (think stone walls and exposed brick) starting from €250, breakfast included. Strong points: Excellent service, a delicious breakfast, and the charming ambiance of the hotel.
• Le St-Martin Hotel Centre-ville – Hotel Particulier: : Just 50 meters away from Saint Catherine West Street. Stylish, cozy double rooms starting from €290. Strong points: An enchanting pool with waterfalls and jets, delightful staff, prime location, and comfort. My recommendation for a high-end stay in Montreal !
• Hôtel Birks Montréal : Located in the city center, this 5-star hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms starting from €500, with breakfast at an additional €19. Strong points: Prime location, beautiful architecture, friendly staff, and a luxurious spa. The best hotel in Montreal for a luxury stay !

My impressions of Montreal

What I absolutely adored about Montreal, and the reason I ended up staying for two extra years (originally planning just one), is the incredible vibrancy of each neighborhood. It’s like living in a close-knit village rather than a sprawling metropolis.

Tons of local shops, welcoming folks, top-notch quality of life, and varied activities across different seasons make Montreal one of the most enjoyable cities to live in worldwide!

Tips for those living in Montreal

In addition to travelers, many French folks choose to make Montreal their new home . Having lived there for three years, here are some nuggets of wisdom from an ex-Montrealer. If you have more, I’d be thrilled to add them to the list!

If you’re longing for “European-style” dining, food can quickly burn a hole in your pocket at standard supermarkets like Provigo and IGA (think peppers at $9 a kilo or chicken fillets at $25 or more!).

So, I’d recommend heading to a little grocery store called Esposito . There are four in Montreal; pick the one that’s closest to you. Chances are you’ll halve your grocery budget.

As a European person, if there’s one thing you might miss in Montreal, it’s the cheese . Of course, you can find it, but it often comes with a hefty price tag (Hello, Roquefort Papillon at $100 a kilo!).

But don’t worry! There’s a place where you can get cheeses (and lots of other stuff) without breaking the bank. Head to Aubut , a wholesale store open to the public!

They offer tons of products, including a delicious brie , sometimes even on sale at $10 a kilo.

Address : Aubut, 3975 Saint-Ambroise Street .

If you’re living in Montreal, it’s highly likely you’ll want to try ice skating, snowshoeing, or even skiing. But if you’re only there for a year, you don’t want to spend a fortune! It’s best to rent for the season or buy second-hand gear. And where can you do that?

The answer: at La Poubelle du Ski ! Don’t let the less-than-charming name fool you (poubelle means trash can in French), it’s a hidden gem well-known to Montrealers. A small shop where you can rent or buy great gear at a fair price. For example, I got a pair of brand new hockey skates (not a scratch) for half the retail price.

Address : La Poubelle du Ski – 8278, St-Laurent Boulevard

So, what are your plans for exploring Montreal? Tell me about your favorite places in the comments!

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Related Stories

2 Days in San Francisco: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

3 Days in San Francisco: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

4 Days in San Francisco: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• 3.8K shares
• Middle East
• North America
• Cheap car rentals: my best advice
• Back to Homepage

Share this story

10 Hidden Gems in the Plateau

A Schwartz-free zone

• Share this on Facebook
• Share this on Twitter
• Share All sharing options

Share All sharing options for: 10 Hidden Gems in the Plateau

Le Plateau Mont Royal is a magical neighbourhood for people who love to eat. It’s dense with restaurants, cafes, and specialty grocery stores, and it’s tough to walk a block without finding somewhere new you’d like to try. Many different immigrant populations have left their mark here, and the diversity of the restaurants reflects the neighborhood’s history.

The Plateau’s classic eateries, both in the fine dining and cheap eats brackets — Au Pied de Cochon, Schwartz’s, Patati Patata, L’Express, La Prunelle, Romados, among various others — have been recommended to death. However, the Plateau contains many more opportunities for a great meal if you look a little deeper.

These blink-and-you’ll-miss-them places may not look like much from the outside, or may be tucked away on side streets but they’re guaranteed to deliver unbelievable food and homey service. Some are also staples for Plateau dwellers who — let’s be honest — don’t really go to Au Pied de Cochon or Schwartz all that often.

La Sala Rosa

Located one floor above street level and with minimal signage, this place is the definition of hidden gem. The restaurant side did recently cut back its offerings to focus more on small bites in the form of classic Spanish tapas (and less paella), but still with plenty of flavour. There’s also outstanding sangria.

• Open in Google Maps

This taqueria is straight out of Mexico City: walk in and the first thing you’ll see is the al pastor pork turning on its trompo, and it tastes as good as it looks. Order a queso fundido to start and then order some tacos or a torta.

Also featured in:

15 Terrific Taco Spots in Montreal

16 Montreal Restaurants With Affordable, Delicious Latin American Food

La Belle Thailandaise

Family-owned and operated for nearly 20 years, this restaurant serves big portions of Thai and Vietnamese dishes that are super-flavourful and perfect for sharing. It’s also BYOB.

Le P'tit Plateau

This cozy restaurant sits on the corner of Marie Anne and Drolet, serving dishes from the southwest of France. It’s a great bet for a special occasion, and it’s BYOB. Reservations are required, so plan ahead — it may be tucked away on a residential street, but it’s somewhat of a Plateau fixture.

The Essential Montreal BYOB Restaurants

19 Great Bets For French Dining in Montreal

Le Vieux Saint-Laurent

Widely known as VSL, this is a perfect diner and brunch spot. The eggs benedict are a common favourite, the bacon is always crisp but not burnt, and the coffee flows endlessly. You can order a massive pancake on the side if you need a little bit of sweet to go with your salty breakfast.

10 Hot Tips For Cheap Breakfasts in Montreal

Yokato Yokabai

Tucked away on the corner of Rachel St. and Drolet, this gorgeous ramen place stands out among the dozens that have cropped up in Montreal in the past few years. The tonkotsu broth is savoury and fatty, and each table has a few fresh garnishes for you to use. Get the japanese fried chicken (kara age) to start. For something more formal, or for alcohol, there’s also Ichigo Ichie on the other side of the building, operated by the same people.

13 Spots Ladling Out Truly Satisfying Ramen in Montreal

Where to Eat in the Plateau

Sign up for the newsletter Eater Montreal

Sign up for our newsletter.

Thanks for signing up!

Check your inbox for a welcome email.

Oops. Something went wrong. Please enter a valid email and try again.

Charcuterie Hongroise

Sometimes known as “Boucherie Hongroiese”, this tiny Hungarian butcher shop and grocery store sells some of the best sandwiches in the city. The schnitzel sandwiches are wonderful, but your debut should be the spicy salami. The meat is thinly-sliced to order, piled onto a roll, and drizzled with mayo and the mustard of your choice.

It may look like a bookstore or a Spanish gift shop (and it is, partly), but inside, there’s a deli counter where you can get a traditional Spanish bocata. It’s a baguette sandwich where the bread is drizzled with olive oil, rubbed with garlic, and finished with tomato and the paper-thin sausage or ham of your choosing.

The 25 Essential Montreal Sandwiches

La Maison des Pâtes Fraîches

This Italian grocery store has a small seating area where you can enjoy an incredible bowl of fresh pasta. You pick your pasta shape (including a choice of various fillings for ravioli and agnolotti) and then select one of six different sauces, and it’s ready to eat a few minutes later. They also make truly perfect pizzas.

21 Great Grocery Stores With Take-Out Food

Les Co'Pains d'Abord

This tiny bakery serves every French baked good you can imagine, from lemon tarts and croissants to sandwiches, quiches, and loaves of perfect bread. They have two locations in the Plateau (the other is on Rachel, near St-Denis), and one in Rosemont, on Masson.

Follow Eater Montreal online:

• Follow Eater Montreal on Twitter
• Follow Eater Montreal on Facebook
• Follow Eater Montreal on Youtube
• Follow Eater Montreal on Instagram

Site search

• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Philadelphia
• Portland, OR
• San Francisco
• Twin Cities
• Washington DC
• Neighbourhoods

3 Days in Montreal (and 4 days): Itinerary and Tips for First Time Visitors

Planning to spend 3 or 4 days in Montreal? Follow this itinerary to make sure you don’t miss any must-see sites and activities.

Now, we’ve previously covered itineraries for one day and two days in Montreal . But what about if you’re staying for a little bit longer? (You lucky thing!) Fear not, because today I’m sharing the perfect Montreal itinerary for three days and four days in this beautiful city. 

As you will soon see, you can fit a lot of the best things to do in Montreal into this limited time frame, no matter what time of year you visit. Yes, I’ve included options for both winter and summer Montreal activities. 

So hit the ground running and I hope you enjoy your trip, whether you have 4 or 3 days in Montreal.

Montreal Itinerary 3 Days

Let’s plan a trip to Montreal and start with what to see in Montreal in 3 days. I promise you can see the best of Montreal in 3 days.

I suggest allocating your first day to exploring Old Montreal and the Old Port , as these areas boast the most charming historical and architectural significance in Montreal. They’re also conveniently situated adjacent to each other, so make a perfect starting point. 

Old Montreal Landmarks 

Old Montreal is most definitely Montreal’s prettiest and most historical area. Its streets are perfect for ambling through, taking memorable pictures and soaking in all of Montreal’s beauty firsthand. As a walking itinerary, I suggest you stroll through Rue St-Paul , Rue St-Amable , Rue Saint-Vincent , Place Jacques Cartier and Rue Notre-Dame . If you love architecture like I do, you’re sure to appreciate the experience. Most of these streets also boast a plethora of interesting boutiques, for those with a penchant for souvenirs. 

Next, you’re going to want to visit Notre Dame Basilica and Marche Bonsecours . These are my two favourite Old Montreal landmarks.

The former is an emblematic heritage edifice (which also serves as an active place of worship) that is annually frequented by nearly one million visitors. Depending on the season, you can also catch the dazzling AURA light show at the Basilica, which combines modernity and spirituality in a breathtaking way. 

The latter, inaugurated in 1847, is recognized as one of Canada’s 10 finest heritage buildings. The market hosts 15 boutiques featuring top-quality “made in Quebec” creations and its terraces and restaurants are open during the warm season. For many, myself included, the Marche Bonsecours is an essential stop on any visit to Old Montreal.  

• Good coffee in Old Montreal: Cafe Olympico
• Good breakfast in Old Montreal: Tommy Cafe 
• Good Ice Cream in Old Montreal: Mlle Catherine 

Science Center

In my opinion, the Science Center is one of the most fun places to visit in Old Montreal. Whether you’re with your family, friends or solo, there’s always something cool to learn and do. It’s the perfect place to visit on day one because it’s just steps away from the Old Montreal landmarks. The Science Center is also home to an IMAX theatre, which regularly shows interesting and educational films on a larger-than-life screen. 

In the evening, I suggest you head over to the Old Port and ride the Ferris Wheel at sunset to soak in the view. After, you may want to catch a performance of the world-famous Cirque du Soleil . Did you know this world-famous troupe was actually founded in Quebec? All the more reason to catch one of their stunning shows while they’re in town. Check out their performance schedule on the website .  

If you’re visiting Montreal during the summer, you’re going to want to catch the International des Feux Loto-Quebec – an annual fireworks competition. The best place to watch is the Clock Tower by SOS Labyrinthe (a giant indoor maze). The fireworks display is free, but make sure you arrive early to get a good view. 

Other must-visit activities in the Old Port are the zipline (seasonal) and ice skating (one of my top things to do in Montreal in winter ). After all of this excitement, it’ll be time to head back to the hotel and rest up as another perfect day in Montreal awaits. 

When you’re in Montreal for three days, I suggest heading north on day two to explore another part of Montreal that’s beautiful in its own right: Mont-Royal and Downtown Montreal . If you’re planning on using transit to get around (an excellent solution as Montreal’s metro system is one of the best in North America), grab a Montreal 3-day metro pass. 

Mont-Royal 

This natural landmark is one that I keep going back to even after living here for 15 years. Whatever the season you visit, the “mountain” is a rich natural place located in the middle of this vibrant and exciting city. One of my favourite spots here is the Mont-Royal Outlook , where I can see the entire downtown area in all its splendour. 

After visiting the outlook, head over to Beaver Lake , where you can enjoy ice skating, snow tubing and cross-country skiing in winter and nature hikes, bird watching and boating in summer. These outdoor activities are all perfect things to do on your three-day stay in Montreal. 

After visiting Mount Royal Park and sipping on a hot chocolate or grabbing a quick sandwich and ice cream (I recommend the historical Maison Smith or Chalet du Mont-Royal ), it’ll be time to descend the Grand Stairs of Mont Royal to move onto the next stop on day two of our three days in Montreal itinerary: the bustling Downtown . 

Downtown 

If you want to see Montreal’s finest downtown campus, you can head east after getting down from the mountain and walk through McGill Campus . Having attended this school, this is the route I always take and I never cease to be amazed by the campus’ beautiful architecture (founded in 1821). 

Whether you are trying to warm up from your winter activities on Mont-Royal or you simply want to do a little bit of afternoon shopping, I suggest you check out the Sainte-Catherine Underground City . The Underground City is a series of interconnected malls that basically span the entirety of downtown. There’s no shortage of shops and restaurants here, so it provides everyone with the ideal shopping experience. My personal favourite stores on Sainte-Catherine are The Bay , Holt-Renfrew , Apple Store and Indigo .

Quartier des Spectacles

For the evening of day two (if you’re lucky enough to be visiting the city during the festival season), I recommend catching a live music performance at either Festival de Jazz , Les Francophiles or Les Nuits d’Afriques . If you’re visiting Montreal in winter, there is Le Grand Marche de Noel and ice skating at the newly inaugurated Esplanade Tranquille to choose from.

As for non-seasonal activities, I suggest visiting the Musee des Arts Contemporains or catching a movie at Cinema du Parc . These are all things that I love to do, so you know they are locally approved. I’m sure your three days in Montreal have been jam-packed with fun activities so far, so head back to your hotel and rest up because there’s another perfect day waiting for you tomorrow. 

For day three, I want you to head east to one of my favourite parts of Montreal: the beautiful Olympic Park and its extensive Espace Pour la Vie . All of the places I mentioned are close together, so it makes sense for you to see them all in one day.

Espace Pour la Vie 

Espace Pour la Vie is the name given to the agglomerate of wonderful places to visit around Olympic Park . After taking some time to look at the unique architecture of the 1976 Summer Olympics Complex (exit at Pie-IX metro station ), you can choose from any one of the four complexes that offer incredible insights into the natural world. 

The Botanical Garden (best to visit in summer) spans 75 acres and features an impressive array of plant species from various global regions. It also includes thematic gardens, such as the Japanese Garden and the Chinese Garden ; each designed to reflect the cultural and horticultural diversity of their respective origins.

The Biodome recreates four distinct ecosystems found in the Americas, allowing you to immerse yourself in environments like the tropical rainforest , the Laurentian maple forest , the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Sub-Antarctic Islands . I suggest this immersive experience if you love to observe and understand the relationships between various plant and animal species within each ecosystem. The Biodome (along with the Planetarium and Insectarium ) was completely renovated in the past few years. 

The Insectarium showcases the fascinating world of insects, boasting an extensive collection of live and preserved specimens. Here you can learn about the essential roles insects play in ecosystems, as well as their diverse behaviours, adaptations and ecological importance.

The Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium offers captivating shows and interactive exhibits that explore astronomy, space exploration and the wonders of the universe. With its cutting-edge technology and immersive presentations, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the cosmos and expand your understanding of the universe.

My favourite? The Insectarium and Montreal Botanical Garden . But, as you can see, Espace Pour la Vie is a must during your 3 days in Montreal. 

Neighbourhood Visit: Plateau Mont-Royal or Mile End

A Montreal itinerary for 3 days or 4 wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the vibrant neighbourhoods of Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End . Both of these areas are a short metro ride from Espace Pour la Vie . Just hop on the green line, transfer at Berri-Uqam (orange line, Montmorency direction) and get off at Mont-Royal .

If you’re visiting during the summer, you’ll be able to catch the pedestrian street fairs on Mont-Royal and Saint-Laurent. These are usually very fun as all the restaurants are selling street food, the shops have great sidewalk sales and it’s the perfect place for people-watching. While you’re here, make sure to check out Saint-Viateur Bagel , Schwartz’s Deli and Romados .

Dinner and Spa

As you wind down from a full day of adventuring, why not treat yourself to a relaxing dinner and a spa? This is the perfect evening plan if you have 3 days in Montreal in winter. We’ve already listed the best spas in Montreal , but my top recommendations include Bota Bota (Old Montreal), Scandinave (Old Montreal) and Spa William Gray (Old Montreal). 

If you have 4 days in Montreal, here are lots of suggestions to make the perfect Montreal itinerary for 4 days.

La Ronde (summer)

La Ronde is a Six Flags amusement park in Montreal, Canada. Here you’ll find thrilling rides, roller coasters, entertainment shows and attractions for all ages. If you’re looking for a thrill-seeking adventure, definitely consider checking out La Ronde . 

Saute-Moutons (summer)

Saute-Moutons in Montreal is a jet boat ride on the Lachine Rapids. I did this when I was a kid and I still remember the exhilarating waves and splashes while admiring the city's skyline. It’s a unique and adventurous way to enjoy the Saint-Lawrence River. 

Parc Jean-Drapeau (year-long)

An interesting anecdote about this “island off the island” is that it was built using the stones that were excavated during the construction of the Montreal metro system. Originally serving as the hub for Expo 67 , today this park is home to many activities enjoyed by Montrealers and tourists alike.

Things I suggest you do while here include attending a festival such as Piknic Electronik , Osheaga , and La Fetes des Neiges . Year-round, you can also check out Biosphere   It’s easily accessible by transit, just get off at Parc Jean-Drapeau on the yellow line.   

Atwater Market

You could also round up your Montreal trip by visiting the Atwater Market , one of the city’s largest open-air markets (along with Jean-Talon Market and Marche Maisonneuve ). 

What I like about Atwater Market (apart from its wide array of farm-fresh and locally grown produce), is how close it is to the Lachine Canal . This is one of my favorite spots in the city as it simply embodies everything I love about Montreal. The laid vibes, the beautiful scenery, the bike paths and the rentals make it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. 

A visit to the Atwater Market and Lachine Canal is, in my opinion, a perfect conclusion to a beautiful 4-day trip to Montreal. 

Where to Eat in Montreal

Whether you’re in Montreal for four days or three, you’re going to need to eat! Fortunately, Montreal is well-known for its restaurants. As someone who loves to eat out at classic spots and try out new offerings, here are a few of my must-visit places if you’re looking for an amazing meal and experience. 

• Au Pied de Cochon (Plateau) 
• Schwartz’s Deli (Plateau)
• L’Express (Plateau)
• Beauty’s Luncheonette (Plateau)
• Joe Beef (St-Henri)
• Gaspar Brasserie Française (Old Montreal)
• Le Club Chasse et Pêche (Old Montreal)
• Restaurant Bonaparte (Old Montreal)
• Salumi Vino (Old Montreal)
• Modavie (Old Montreal)

How to Get Around Montreal

Thanks to the metro system, Montreal is a very easy city to get around. Everything on this itinerary is a walkable distance from one of the many stops. Montreal is an extremely transit-friendly city.

I highly suggest buying the 3-day or weekly metro pass the STM offers. You’ll certainly end up saving a lot of money this way as you hop in and out of the metro on your 3-day Montreal itinerary. 

Here's how to get from Montreal airport to downtown as well.

Where to Stay in Montreal

We’ve previously published a guide to the best hotels in Montreal , but here are my top picks depending on your budget:

• M Montreal is an award-winning hostel for budget travellers. In fact, it’s been named the best hostel in Canada and it’s perfectly located in Old Montreal.
• Hotel William Gray is undoubtedly one of Montreal’s most popular hotels and it’s great for couples travelling on a mid-range budget.
• Ritz-Carlton Montreal is the epitome of luxury if you’ve got cash to splash.

Is 3 days in Montreal, Canada Enough?

Yes, you can easily see the best of Montreal in three days, because all the activities are so close to each other. Of course, a longer stay will afford you more time to explore. But three days in Montreal is definitely suitable for seeing most of the landmarks and hot spots.

How Many days in Montreal is Enough?

The ideal duration for a stay in Montreal is 3 to 4 days. This number is enough for you to visit most of the city’s landmarks. However, considering not everyone has the same pace when travelling, you might need to consider a longer stay. 

What is the Best Time to Visit Montreal, Canada?

The best time to visit Montreal, Canada is during the summer. This is when the city, its massive outdoor music festivals and its lush and green parks truly wake up. Visiting during the winter is also a good time as the city becomes a winter wonderland.  

Final Words

So whether you have 3 perfect days in Montreal or 4, I hope this Montreal itinerary gives you plenty of ideas and inspiration. If you’ve ever wondered what to visit in Montreal in 3 days, we can safely say this blog post provides a comprehensive answer. Montreal is truly a beautiful city with something for everyone in every season.

I've put together a few guides to help tourists explore Montreal. I have tips on where to stay in Montreal and some good options for family-friendly accommodations in Montreal . I also have a more exhaustive list of fun things to do in Montreal .

About the Author

Joshua is our Montreal expert. He has been living in Montreal for over 15 years. He is passionate about sharing his love for Montreal and some local tips with our readers.

Similar Posts

20+ Things To Do in Montreal in Winter (Indoors & Outdoors)

The 9 Best Spas in Quebec City for Relaxation and Massage

11 Fun Things To Do in Quebec City in November

2 Days in Montreal Itinerary: What to See and Do

Best Places to Stay in Montreal & Montreal Hotels (Infographics)

Best Ways to Travel from Montreal Airport to Downtown and Old Montreal

2 days in Montreal: An itinerary for first-time visitors

Some links on this page may be affiliate links. That means if you follow one, see something you like, and purchase it, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. For more information, see this site's disclosures .

This itinerary is for anyone planning a quick weekend trip or other short city break in Canada’s second city . Below you’ll find all my suggestions for two days in Montreal – my home for several years and one of the most interesting places in the Great White North (and arguably in all of North America).

Forgive the incoming cliché, but Montreal is a really unique place. Culturally, it doesn’t feel like anywhere else in Canada. That said, it’s not quite the dupe for Paris the tourism board would have you believe. (I’ve just offended a good chunk of the population in saying that, but Montreal truly does have its own character.) Visually, there’s nowhere like it. Treacherous winding staircases covered in half a foot of snow? There’s only one place that could be!

I lived in Montreal full time for just over three years, and I still go back frequently to visit family and friends (sometimes for a few weeks or months at a time). I can say with confidence that even though there’s plenty to do if you want to stay longer, Montreal is a fantastic destination for a short trip or weekend getaway.

The entire city is extremely walkable, and it has good public transportation for days when the weather makes that sound less than appealing. You’ll find amazing food, great nightlife, charming streets, quirky neighborhoods, art, shows, festivals, and a few lovely pockets of nature!

This itinerary will give you a great overview of the city’s history and culture, all while taking in its most beautiful architecture and sampling some of its most famous eats. 

Is two days enough time to see Montreal?

I am of the mind that two days is not really enough time to see anywhere on the planet thoroughly, but we have to work with what we’ve got! Two days is certainly enough time to visit Montreal’s must-see sights and get a sense of its many distinct neighborhoods.

Obviously, having called Montreal home for years, I think you can easily spend more time here and not get bored. It’s a foodie paradise, home to a fantastic arts scene, and a joy for photographers. If this is your first time in Montreal, two days is a great amount of time to get oriented, but there will still be plenty for you to see next time! 

Day 1 (Morning): Climb Mount Royal

Let’s start your first day in Montreal with a bit of exercise! The expansive green space in the center of the city is home to Mount Royal, the mountain (really just a large hill) from which Montreal gets its name. 

Known to locals as simply “the mountain,” it has an amazing, panoramic view of the Montreal skyline at its main viewpoint, Belvédère Kondiaronk. This large observation platform is a great place to start your Montreal itinerary, as it helps you to immediately orient yourself. (I have instructions on how to get there, as well as directions to other lookout points on the mountain, in my post on the best views on Mount Royal .) 

Mount Royal also has a lake (Lac aux Castors, or Beaver Lake) where you can rent a paddle boat, admire baby ducklings, or ice skate, depending on the season. The area around Lac aux Castors is a very popular place for family and friends to get together in nice weather. If you enjoy people-watching, this is a great spot to while away a few hours.

For something more active, there are miles and miles of walking trails that double as cross-country ski paths in the winter. (Watch out for ticks and poison ivy if you head into the woods in the warmer months.) 

Morning alternative for rainy (or just too miserably cold) weather: Musée des Beaux-Arts

Montreal is known for many things, but good weather is definitely not one of them. If spending several hours in the wind and cold is not for you today (or if you’re unlucky enough to arrive during a  canicule /heatwave), Montreal has some great museums where you can spend the morning instead.

My personal favorite is the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, located in the western part of downtown Montreal. You can find information about permanent and temporary exhibits on the museum’s website .

(I recognize that some people like to start earlier and squeeze a lot more into their days than I do. If you want to visit the mountain  and  the museum, it’s about a 15-minute walk from here to the Peel Steps , where you can start your climb up Mount Royal. Alternatively, walk about 5 minutes to the Côte-des-Neiges/Sherbrooke bus stop and take line 165 or 166 to the Trafalgar Stairs . From here, it’s less than 10 minutes on foot to Beaver Lake.)

If you enjoy history more than art, you might prefer Pointe-á-Callière (the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History) instead. And if you’re more into science, the Biodome and Planetarium in Montreal’s Space for Life are also a great option. Just note that they’re a bit out of the way for the rest of the day’s activities. (It’s an easy ride on the metro, though.)

Day 1 (Afternoon): Eat and drink your way through the Plateau and Mile End

Although the downtown area and Old Montreal are where you’ll find most of Montreal’s major sights, the best place to really get a feel for the city’s culture are the popular residential neighborhoods just east of the mountain. 

I recommend spending the afternoon wandering thorough the Plateau and Mile End. This area is really the cultural heart of Montreal, and it’s a must-visit for anyone who really wants to get to know the city. You can continue over to Little Italy and adjacent Villeray if you really want to get your steps in.

Le Plateau Mont-Royal

If you’re feeling up to it, you can walk here from the Mount Royal Chalet. Head down the Grand Staircase and turn left when you reach the Olmsted Path. Just follow it all the way east until it ends; you’ll end up in the Plateau.

If you’d rather take the bus and save your energy (the Plateau and Mile End are best explored on foot or bicycle), you can make your way to Lac aux Castors, the Mount Royal carpark, or the Camillien-Houde viewpoint. Buses 11 and 711 will take you right to the Mont-Royal metro station in the heart of the Plateau. 

Here you’ll find tons of great bars and restaurants (cheap and not), lots of cool murals, and street after street of colorful Victorian facades and those iconic twisty staircases. The main arteries are Boulevard Saint-Laurent running north-south and Avenue du Mont-Royal running east-west. In the summer, the latter is closed off to cars, and Montreal’s beloved outdoor  terrasses  spill into the streets.

It feels impossible to make specific recommendations for lunch  because Montreal is such a foodie destination, and there are just so many wonderful options depending on what you’re in the mood for. Some of the most famous places are La Banquise (for classic and not-so-classic poutine), Schwartz’s Deli , and Au Pied de Cochon . Vegetarians and vegans, check out ChuChai , Ohana , Sham , or Aux Vivres . If none of those speak to you, feel free to just wander until something does – I don’t think it will take long. 

To admire some of Montreal’s most distinctive architecture, head up to Square Saint-Louis and stroll northwest from there to Avenue du Mont-Royal.

Street art fans will appreciate the many amazing murals in this neighborhood. New pieces are added all the time – Montreal actually hosts a mural festival every summer with food, music, and the chance to watch the artists at work. You’ll likely stumble across a few on your own, but also consider taking a tour for a deeper understanding of the history and context behind Montreal’s street art. The original Montreal mural tour has a fantastic reputation for affordable tours with friendly and knowledgeable guides. 

Just north of the Plateau (and technically forming part of the larger Plateau-Mont-Royal borough) is Mile End. This neighborhood has a similar vibe, just maybe a bit more low key. 

Café Olimpico is a bit of an institution in the area, but there are lots of great spots around for a post-lunch caffeine fix. I like Café in Gamba ( two locations in Mile End) and Café Myriade, which is on your way if you’re walking from the Plateau. (They also have two locations in the neighborhood, with one on Mont-Royal and one on Saint-Denis .) 

Also make sure to try a Montreal-style bagel in the neighborhood – they are nothing like what you’re used to, but delicious nonetheless. Longtime rivals Fairmont and Saint-Viateur both claim to make the best ones in the city. (You might want to do your taste test on one of the ever-popular food tours in Mile End.)

Jean-Talon Market and Little Italy

If you want to check out the famous Jean Talon Market (Montreal’s largest and one of North America’s oldest), now is the time to do it. Again, Montreal is supremely walkable and you could pretty much traverse the entire city on foot. However, I’ve already had you walk a lot today, so I’d probably recommend hopping on the bus or metro for a short ride to the market. If you still have energy afterwards, you can walk around neighboring Little Italy.

Also note that I’ve included Atwater Market on tomorrow’s itinerary. It’s definitely smaller, but I think the experience is pretty similar. So don’t feel like you absolutely have to go to Jean Talon if you’re tired and need a rest before dinner.

Day 1 (Evening): Dinner in the Plateau or Old Montreal

For your first evening in Montreal, I recommend either sticking around the Plateau or heading into Old Montreal. 

Have a look at this list of Canada’s best restaurants (filtered to show those in Quebec) and you’ll quickly notice that a whole lot of them are in the Plateau and Mile End. 

The neighborhood, as you’ll have surely noticed, has a very young and cool vibe, so you’ll find a lot of delicious dinner spots for smaller budgets as well. And if you want to do some bar hopping afterwards, this is one of the best places to be. 

Many of the restaurants and bars in Old Montreal, despite being located in the most touristy area of the city, are actually quite beloved by locals as well. While there are certainly establishments that exist only for the tourist crowd, you can find a lot of great places to eat and drink here, especially if you’re looking for something a bit more upscale.  

I also highly recommend checking to see if there are any special events taking place during your visit. Montreal has a pretty packed festival schedule – there is nearly always something going on in the summer, and the rest of the year is far from sleepy. 

The best part is that many of the city’s most popular events have shows, programs, or exhibits that are completely free. If you’re here in the winter, for example, make sure to stroll through the Luminothérapie art installations in the Quartier des Spectacles. In the summer, check if your dates coincide with Jazz Fest, Just for Laughs (cancelled in 2024, unfortunately), or the Festival International Nuits d’Afrique. 

Day 2 (Morning): Wander through Old Montreal and the Old Port

You can’t really come on a first trip to Montreal without visiting Old Montreal and the adjacent Old Port area. The neighborhood is almost 400 years old, and it is home to several well-preserved streets and buildings constructed during the colonial era. 

Old Montreal (Le Vieux-Montréal)

Without a doubt, the most famous historical building in the area is the Notre-Dame Basilica . Unfortunately, it’s probably one of the more expensive churches you’ll visit in your life – but almost certainly one of the most beautiful as well. I do think it’s worth it to spend some time inside if you have any interest in art, history, or architecture. (I’ll also note that entry is free if you attend a mass.) 

From Notre Dame, you can head down cobblestone Rue Saint-Sulpice to Rue Saint-Paul. Wander past cafés, restaurants, and art galleries as you make your way the Old Port. You might want to pop into  Château Ramezay , a UNESCO-recognized history museum, or the Bonsecours Market, one of Montreal’s most famous heritage buildings and a great place to check out local crafts and souvenirs. Nearby, the beautiful Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel is free (although the adjacent museum is not). 

If you’re interested in history and/or architecture, you might enjoy a walking tour through the neighborhood with a local guide to provide that additional context.

The Old Port (Le Vieux-Port de Montréal)

La Grande Roue, Montreal’s ferris wheel, is open year-round and offers great views of the city and the river. In the winter months, you can ice skate right under it. 

In the summer, the area along the river is buzzing with even more activity. The promenade next to La Grande Roue is lined with small boutiques selling accessories and souvenirs. (See the schedule on the Old Port’s website .) There are also lots of food trucks if you’re craving poutine, cotton candy, ice cream, or other small bites. 

As you stroll around Bonsecours Basin, you’ll see people ziplining overhead every few minutes. There is an adventure park, called Voiles en Voiles , with lots of activities for families, including a ropes course and a climbing wall. Walk down to the Clock Tower and you’ll even find a small beach where you can put your feet in the sand and watch the bateau-mouche  sightseeing boats cruise past. 

And at the opposite end of the Old Port, you’ll find Montreal’s newest tourist attraction, the Port of Montreal tower. This 65-meter glass building affords great views of the skyline and the St. Lawrence (for about half the ticket price of a standard adult ticket for La Grande Roue, if the view is your main concern). Check the schedule online before you go, as outside of high season it’s only open on the weekends and holidays.

Day 2 (Afternoon): Explore Little Burgundy and Saint-Henri

The morning was pretty packed with sightseeing and walking, so I thought we’d spend your afternoon doing something a little more chill. 

We’ll head now to the Sud-Ouest borough of Montreal, where you’ll find down-to-earth vibes, lots of great food and coffee, and one of Montreal’s largest public markets. To get here from Old Montreal, you have a few options. One is to hop on the metro at Champ-de-Mars, Place d’Armes, or Square Victoria (depending on where you are) and take the orange line to Lionel-Groulx. From there, you’re just a five minute walk from Atwater Market , right on the border of Montreal’s Little Burgundy (Petite-Bourgogne) and Saint-Henri neighborhoods.

If it’s a nice day, you might prefer to rent a Bixi in the Old Port and cycle down to Little Burgundy along the Lachine Canal. It’s a flat and straightforward ride, and it will probably take you half as much time the metro. You could also go on foot, but this will probably take close to an hour (versus maybe 15 minutes on a bike). There are walking paths alongside the bike paths on both sides of the canal. (You could also walk straight through the city along Rue Notre Dame, but I think the canal is nicer. Notre Dame Street is quite cute and lively once you reach Little Burgundy, but the section that passes through Griffintown doesn’t have a ton of character.)

You can dock your bike at the Bixi station right next to the market on Atwater Avenue. (There is also one at Lionel-Groulx station if this one happens to be full.)

Atwater Market and Little Burgundy (La Petite-Bourgogne)

Right on the northern bank of the canal, you’ll see Marché Atwater, the second most famous public market in Montreal (after Jean Talon). Inside, stalls sell cheese, wine, bread, meat, spices, sauces, fruit, and other provisions year-round. Outside in the summer, you’ll find a popular ice cream stand and a floating cocktail lounge right on the water.

If it’s a weekend in the warm weather months, the market will be buzzing – some of the neighborhood’s popular restaurants have food stalls here on Saturdays and Sundays.

You could easily cobble together a picnic lunch to enjoy next to the canal. If you’re hungry for something more substantial, there are tons of restaurants on Rue Notre Dame just east of the market. Many have outdoor seating in the warmer months.

For coffee and light bites, pop into Lili & Oli , September Café , or Café Redwood (just across the canal). 

Saint-Henri

Alternatively, continue west along the canal just a kilometer or so to Saint-Henri. (The path on this side is interrupted by some train tracks, and it’s a little confusing where to go. It’s easier if you cross to the other bank and then cross back at this small bridge .)

You’ll find another cluster of restaurants and bars on Rue Notre Dame just next to Sir-George-Étienne-Cartier Park . 

Day 2 (Evening): Stick around Little Burgundy or head back to Old Montreal

There are several excellent dining options located just a stone’s throw from Atwater Market, including Joe Beef – one of Montreal’s most famous restaurants. A few doors over, Le Vin Papillon is a lovely wine bar with delicious small plates. There is also excellent Japanese food at Bar Otto . 

For high-end cocktails, walk just a few minutes to the Atwater Cocktail Club . (You’ll think you’re in the wrong place, but no, this is one of those “upscale bars hidden in a dark alley” situations.) 

Alternatively, you may want to return to Old Montreal (especially if you ate dinner in the Plateau yesterday) or the Quartier des Spectacles if there’s a festival on! 

And for something really fun and unique, check out the evening version of this scooter tour of Montreal . (I’ll note that they also have a morning and afternoon option, and each one takes you through different neighborhoods. If you want a little less walking than I’ve outlined in this itinerary, this would be a pretty cool alternative!) 

When is the best time of year to visit Montreal?

The short answer is  not winter , but I think the best time to be in Montreal varies from person to person. 

The energy of the city in the summer can’t be beat, but this is also the hottest (obviously), most expensive, and most crowded time of year. Blink and you’ll miss spring, but it’s a wonderful time to visit if you can time it well. (That generally means May. Don’t come until May!)

Weather in the fall can range from positively lovely to downright disgusting, but those autumn colors against the backdrop of Montreal’s Victorian row houses are really a sight to see. 

I actually wrote an entire post on this question breaking down the best time to visit Montreal month by month. Feel free to peruse that and think about what’s most important to you.

More on Montreal

That just about wraps up my itinerary recommendations for 2 days in Montreal!

Of course, you might want to make adjustments depending on the weather and how much walking or cycling you want to do, but I hope I’ve given you a good starting point as you plan your trip! For more on Montreal, check out the posts below:

Guide to Montreal’s most interesting neighborhoods

The best lookout points on Mount Royal

The best months of the year to visit Montreal

Similar Posts

Cudillero: A seaside gem in Asturias

The Best Places to Visit in Argentina: A 3-Week Itinerary for Your First Trip

Orio to Zumaia: An Easy Day on the Camino del Norte

The Best Motorbike Trips from Chiang Mai: Top 10 Routes

Similan Islands diving: A fantastic first liveaboard experience

Incredible thresher shark diving: Malapascua Island in the Philippines

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Where to Go in 2024 Overview: Where to Go in 2024
• The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024
• An Insider's Guide to Paris — Luxury Hotels, Vintage Shops, and the City's Best Restaurants Included
• This Southern U.S. City Was Named One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024
• 5 Coastal Towns in Alaska That Are Adorable in Any Weather
• T+L's Review of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur
• This Exclusive Helicopter Dining Experience Is the Best Way to See the 'Grand Canyon of Mallorca’
• Belmond Brought Back Its Most Thrilling Trains Through Asia – Here's What to Expect
• How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Montreal
• Georgia May Be Getting Its First National Park Soon — and It Has More Than Just Scenic Trails
• How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Costa Rica
• How to Plan a Trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast
• This Stunning Region in Portugal Is a Wine Lover's Dream
• How to Visit Oslo, According to Someone Who Spent 6 Years in Scandinavia
• This South American City Is One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 — Here's How to Visit
• The Caribbean's 'Nature Island' Has Rain Forests, Luxury Hotels, and a Rich Creole Culture
• This Midwestern Gem Is Home to Barbecue, Music, and a Flourishing Womens’ Sports Scene
• Destinations
• Where to Go in 2024 The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024 An Insider's Guide to Paris — Luxury Hotels, Vintage Shops, and the City's Best Restaurants Included This Southern U.S. City Was Named One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 5 Coastal Towns in Alaska That Are Adorable in Any Weather T+L's Review of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur This Exclusive Helicopter Dining Experience Is the Best Way to See the 'Grand Canyon of Mallorca’ Belmond Brought Back Its Most Thrilling Trains Through Asia – Here's What to Expect How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Montreal Georgia May Be Getting Its First National Park Soon — and It Has More Than Just Scenic Trails How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Costa Rica How to Plan a Trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast This Stunning Region in Portugal Is a Wine Lover's Dream How to Visit Oslo, According to Someone Who Spent 6 Years in Scandinavia This South American City Is One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 — Here's How to Visit The Caribbean's 'Nature Island' Has Rain Forests, Luxury Hotels, and a Rich Creole Culture This Midwestern Gem Is Home to Barbecue, Music, and a Flourishing Womens’ Sports Scene CLOSE Part of Where to Go in 2024

How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Montreal — Luxury Hotels, Beautiful Parks, and Canada's Best Restaurant Included

Here's where to eat, stay, and explore in Montreal, according to a local.

Best Hotels

• Best Things to Do

Best Places to Eat

Best nightlife, best shopping, best neighborhoods to visit, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Despite its sometimes divisive language politics, extreme seasons, and chronic traffic headaches, Montrealers, or les Montréalais , are justifiably proud of their distinctive, if idiosyncratic, city — and for good reason. Travel + Leisure readers named Montreal one of their favorite cities in Canada in 2023 .

The sophisticated, French-speaking (yet very bilingual), culturally diverse city lays claim to world-class restaurants, lovely parks, superb art galleries and museums, a dynamic music scene, inspiring 18th- and 19th-century architecture, and vibrant nightlife.

It can also be a lot of fun in the winter , when locals like to get out and celebrate the cold and snow, even extending the revelry at outdoor festivals and concerts at night.

R.M. Nunes/Getty Images

Thom Seivewright, a Montreal expert and former hotel concierge, launched his small-group tour company, Tours Montreal , in the Canadian city in 2016. “Our art scene is on par with cities two or three times our size,” he says. “There’s obviously a big emphasis placed on arts and culture in Montreal.”

There’s a big emphasis on food , too. Montrealers love their bagels, cheeses, poutine, and maple syrup, and they’re loyal to their chef-owned restaurants. “It’s a little gem of a city that has world-class dining — and world-class junk food,” says Seivewright. 

Long known for its exuberant after-dark scene, Montreal has it all, from cocktail bars to Irish pubs, jazz bars to pulsating dance clubs. The city is even planning to create a 24-hour nightlife district .

Here's everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Montreal.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• The fashionable, Parisian-style brasserie and rooftop terrace at Hôtel Le Place d’Armes, a boutique luxury property overlooking Place d’Armes and the Notre-Dame Basilica, attracts locals and tourists alike.
• Designed by American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who was also responsible for New York City’s Central Park, Parc du Mont-Royal is an oasis of greenery in the city center.
• Mon Lapin, a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Little Italy serving natural wines and an ever-changing menu of small plates, was voted Canada’s best restaurant in 2023 . 
• Bar Furco’s lovely terrace becomes lively in the summer during Montreal’s ritual cinq à sept (happy hour).
• Saint Laurent Boulevard, a.k.a. the Main, is a good place to get a glimpse of Montreal’s 19th- and 20th-century immigrant history. It's also the historical dividing line between French and English in the city.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts

Hotel Nelligan

Hotel Nelligan , located in the heart of Old Montreal, was T+L readers' favorite city hotel in Canada in 2023 . Spanning four 19th-century graystones, the 105-room boutique property lies near the Notre-Dame Basilica and Old Port waterfront. Its seasonal rooftop terrace is a summer favorite for its picturesque views and lively happy hour.

Hôtel Place d’Armes

Another T+L reader favorite, Hôtel Place d’Armes is housed in four 19th-century neoclassical buildings opposite the Notre-Dame Basilica. The property is highly rated for its tasteful rooms featuring hardwood floors and brick walls, swanky French brasserie , and popular rooftop terrace. 

Hôtel Uville

One of the city’s newer hotels, opened in 2020, Hôtel Uville got its name thanks to its location in Old Montreal’s Place d’Youville. Uville is part design hotel, part museum — a love letter to the Montreal of the 1960s and '70s. This was transformative period, a time when francophone Quebecers were turning away from the Catholic church and leading the charge in North America vis-à-vis cuisine, style, and design — the culmination of which were Expo 67 and the 1976 Olympics.

“This hotel is very cool,” says Seivewright. “They did a great job. The details, like the tiled bathrooms and custom-made wallpapers, are amazing. They’ve got archival photos and artifacts from the '60s and '70s in each of the rooms, and documentary films from the National Film Board that you can watch on your room’s TV.”

The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal

Montreal’s grande-dame hotel, the Ritz-Carlton , opened in 1912 in the city's Golden Square Mile. In addition to housing chef Daniel Boulud's Maison Boulud , the refined property offers afternoon tea in the ornate Palm Court and seasonal garden terrace, Spa St. James, and an indoor saltwater pool.

Four Seasons Hotel Montreal

Located in Golden Square Mile since 2019, the posh  Four Seasons Hotel Montreal is connected via a third-floor walkway to the luxury department store Holt Renfrew Ogilvy . The hotel boasts Marcus Restaurant + Terrace, in partnership with legendary Manhattan chef Marcus Samuelsson; a Guerlain Spa; and a skylit swimming pool with an upstream current generator. What more could you want from a world-class Montreal hotel ?

Best Things to Do 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Parc du Mont-Royal

What Central Park is to New Yorkers and Hyde Park to Londoners, Parc du Mont-Royal, or Mount Royal Park, is to Montrealers. At 764 feet high, Mount Royal may not be much of a mountain, but the park is, as Seivewritght says, “the heart and soul of the city.” He adds, “The fact that Montreal is a four-season city and Mount Royal is a four-season park makes it even better because you’ve got skiing, skating, and tobogganing in the wintertime. And in the summer, you can go biking and walking.” You can also go for a picnic and rent a rowboat or Mölkky or spikeball equipment at Beaver Lake. 

Old Montreal

With its graystone buildings and narrow streets, Old Montreal can sometimes feel like a slice of Europe in North America. Certainly no visit to Montreal is complete without a stop here. Not only will you find the city’s most important historic landmarks, including the Notre-Dame Basilica , the 18th-century Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel , the Second Empire-style City Hall, and the neoclassic Marché Bonsecours , but it’s also home to pretty boutique hotels, haute-couture shops, and chef-owned restaurants.

Pointe-à-Callière

A national archaeological site, Pointe-à-Callière , now an impressive archaeology and history museum, sits above the ruins of the birthplace of Montreal. “The Pointe-à-Callière museum is amazing,” says Seivewright. “They’ll take you underground to see the ruins of the original fortifications of Montreal, the original city the French built here in the 1600s.” Visitors can also see Indigenous artifacts uncovered during a dig and part of North America’s first collector sewer, built between 1832 and 1838.

Arsenal Contemporary Art Gallery

Opened in Montreal in an 80,000-square-foot building in 2011, Arsenal Contemporary Art has since expanded to include locations in Toronto and New York City. “Outside of the museums, I would send my clients to certain galleries around town. These days, one of my favorites is Arsenal. It has an amazing [selection] in its permanent collection, but it also puts on temporary exhibits that are just mind-blowing,” says Seivewright.

Montreal is a city of festivals, with everything from jazz (the city hosts the world’s largest jazz festival) to Pride to circus arts celebrated here. There’s even a dedicated festival and outdoor performance space downtown called the Quartier des Spectacles . While there are festivals year-round , May to September is the city’s busiest period.

eyedias/Getty Images

La Banquise

One of Quebec's most beloved foods is poutine, traditionally a mess (translation of "poutine") of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. But poutine continues to get more upscale. A veritable institution since 1968, La Banquise doesn’t claim to be high-end, but the casual eatery serves 35 kinds of poutine and it’s open 24 hours. “La Banquise is a classic. I’m [vegetarian], and in my opinion, the veggie gravies are even more delicious,” says Seivewright. “A lot of people knock La Banquise because it’s popular, but I stand by it.”

Montreal Plaza

The design at Montreal Plaza is elegant and stylish, yet also notable for its eccentric touches like a dollhouse hanging upside down from the ceiling and Elmo sitting on the bar. Even certain dishes, like crudo or oysters, are served atop a toy triceratops or among plastic Smurfs. Chef and owner Charles-Antoine Crête and his team enjoy serving great food in a playful, joyous way. “This is my favorite place,” says Seivewright. “It’s not the just the way the food is prepared or what it is, but the whimsical, creative way it’s presented.”

Sushi Momo , from Mexican-Canadian chef Christian Ventura, is Montreal’s best vegan sushi restaurant. The sleek, dimly lit, botanically adorned space in the Plateau area is inviting, while the artfully plated confections are a feast for the eyes and the fusion of flavors a song for the taste buds.

Nora Gray , a lively, casual restaurant in Griffintown, is known for its southern Italian cuisine, updated cucina povera , and privately imported natural and organic wines. The dark wood, banquettes, long bar, and warm candlelight lend the restaurant an intimate, romantic, and club-like feel. 

Dominique Lafond

Voted Canada’s best restaurant in 2023 , Mon Lapin is a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Little Italy. It serves natural wines and an ever-changing menu of French- and Italian-inspired small plates. Each dish highlights fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients plus unexpected flavor combinations.

Henryk Sadura/Getty Images

Cloakroom Bar

The 25-seat Cloakroom Bar , with a cloak-and-dagger atmosphere, was named Canada’s second-best bar in 2023 . “It’s one of my favorite bars anywhere in the world,” says Seivewright. “It’s hidden behind a menswear shop, which makes it even cooler. It’s very exclusive feeling. You tell them, 'I like gin, I like citrus,' and they’ll create something for you. If you’re three people and you all like the same thing, they’ll create three different drinks.”

Situated in the Plateau Mont-Royal, Diese Onze is an intimate jazz bar that also serves tapas and mains. “I’m a big jazz fan, and I love Diese Onze,” says Seivewright. “It’s a good mix of local and out-of-town musicians.”

Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill

A Montreal institution since 1995, Upstairs is, funnily enough, located in a basement. It attracts big-name international jazz acts who make this a routine stop on their tour itineraries.

Pub Le Sainte-Élisabeth 

Established in 1997, this European-style pub between the Quartier des Spectacles and student-heavy Quartier Latin is quite cozy inside, but it’s the enclosed, leafy terrace at the back that draws people here come summer. The service many not win any awards, but Le Sainte-Élisabeth is about the ambience. 

The minimalist redesign of the Canadian Fur Company building (hence Furco ), located on a downtown back street, is a big draw for wine lovers and the happy hour crowd. It features an adventurous food and wine menu, in addition to more traditional charcuterie and cheese plates.

Maison Marie Saint Pierre

Marie Saint Pierre 's Montreal-made, ready-to-wear pieces marry timeless feminine styles with contemporary flair and function.

Entering this handsome Crescent Street atelier-cum-boutique near the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is like stepping into an old-school European tailor shop. Started by their father, Arthur Der Shahinian, sons Tavit and John carry on the tradition of crafting impeccably fitted and designed bespoke men’s suits and shirts, with damask silk lining and hand-sewn button holes, never compromising on quality or friendly, professional service.

Simons is originally from Quebec City, but it’s popular in cities across Canada. The small, mid-range department store downtown carries popular fashion brands as well as its own collections, in addition to homewares. “I’m a big fan of Simons,” says Seivewright. “I buy half my clothes there. The price point is good, the quality is good, and I like that it’s a local brand.”

Holt Renfrew Ogilvy

Montreal’s answer to Saks Fifth Avenue, Holt Renfrew Ogilvy is a one-stop shop for all things luxury, including clothing, shoes, and accessories. Clients can also enjoy a personal shopping experience in one of the five fifth-floor suites or the glamorous art-deco Café Holt, with its remarkable solar-like orb set above the central bar.

Saint Laurent Boulevard

“Saint Laurent [Boulevard], between Saint Joseph Boulevard and up to Van Horne Avenue, has the best boutique design shopping nowadays,” says Seivewright. “You could go all the way up to Little Italy and it’s still amazing. I was walking there the other day and every single window I walked by made me want to go in. There are furniture shops, clothing shops, and jewelry shops — some of it is new, some of it is vintage, and it’s all local.”

Saint-Henri

Saint-Henri, once a francophone working-class neighborhood, is now gentrified, replete with popular, chef-owned wine bars and restaurants, antiques shops, cafes, and boutiques. Still, it retains pockets of its former self. “I love it because it has parts that haven’t changed in a hundred years and others that make it the most modern neighborhood in Montreal,” says Seivewright. “It’s got a cool, little rough-around-the-edges vibe. It’s one of those neighborhoods where you’ll have a multimillion-dollar home next to a really rundown place, and you see that contrast. Then, you listen to the people and hear French and English. You've got old people, young people — it’s a neighborhood where everything mixes.”

Plateau Mont-Royal/Mile End

Once relegated to working-class European immigrants, the Plateau/Mile End area is the epicenter of Montreal’s creativity and bohemian joie de vivre. Leafy streets lined with triplexes fronted by balconies and steep, often-winding, wrought-iron staircases invite visitors to explore this neighborhood bursting with convivial cafes, top-drawer restaurants , funky vintage shops, and trendy boutiques.

For a glimpse into how the upper crust of Montreal lived until the 1970s and '80s, head to the neighborhood of Outremont. Its two main shopping and dining strips are Bernard Ouest and Laurier Ouest avenues — part of the former turns into a pedestrian-only area come summer, with restaurant terraces sitting directly on the street.

Montreal is a four-season city. Late April to mid-May tends to be best for blooming trees, while October to early November is usually prime for leaf peeping. The holiday season is lovely, but a white Christmas is increasingly rare. For a stronger chance of experiencing the romance of winter snow, January and February are ideal. Summers in Montreal are hot and humid, and heat waves can now begin as early as May. Visit in May, June, or late August through September and October to avoid the worst of the summer temperatures and crowds.

Chris Jongkind/Getty Images

Montreal can be reached via regular flights with Air Canada, Delta, American, and United. Flying from New York’s LaGuardia to Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, better known as Dorval (YUL), takes about 90 minutes gate to gate. Driving may be cheaper, but it takes about seven hours, and unless you’re planning to pay for hotel parking, parking in Montreal can be a hassle. For travelers living in New York or Vermont, a more scenic and leisurely option (10 hours) is Amtrak’s Adirondack train from Moynihan Train Hall to Montreal’s Gare Centrale (Central Station).

Patrick Donovan/Getty Images

In summer, the best way to get around is on foot or by Bixi, the city-wide bicycle rental system. In 2023, Bixi decided to end the storage of their bicycles during the winter, so they are now available year-round. However, there are not as many stations as in summer. The metro (subway) is fairly reliable and frequent during rush hour — and often the quickest way to get from point A to point B. Buses tend to be less reliable, but they go everywhere the metro does not. An Opus card can be purchased with several fares added, if you’re planning on using the metro and/or buses often. Taxis and Ubers are readily available, too, and taxis can be hailed on the street.

Where to Go in 2024

Related articles.

Create a free account

• Gain access to free articles
• Daily free newsletter(s)
• Ability to comment on most articles
• Build your 3D avatar and gain points

• Everything in the Free plan
• Ad-free reading and browsing
• Unlimited access to all content including AI summaries
• Directly support our local and national reporting and become a Patron
• Cancel anytime.

Forgot my password

Please enter your email and we'll send you a new password request code.

Please complete your profile to unlock commenting and other important features.

This is a Pro feature.

Time to level up your local game with mtl blog pro..

12 Montreal Restaurants In The Plateau That Everyone Must Visit At Least Once

A little something for everyone! 😍

A group of people drinking beer and cocktails and eating Lebanese manoushé from Café Chez Teta in Montreal. Right: The thali dish served at Resto Tula in Montreal.

Montreal is home to some of the best restaurants in Canada . Whether you're in the mood for Lebanese cuisine , African, Southeast Asian, Italian or Polish food, Montreal has got you covered and then some.

While you'll find some of the most delicious eateries in every corner of the city, the Plateau is easily one of the most culinary diverse boroughs across Montreal. With well-known streets such as Rachel, Mont-Royal, Saint-Denis and Saint Laurent all being home to some of the top restaurants, it's safe to say that the Plateau is the spot to experience Montreal's food scene .

Despite endless options, selecting where to eat in the Plateau is where things can get tough. With an abundance of restaurants to choose from, we've narrowed it down the 12 Montreal restaurants in the Plateau that everyone should try at least once.

Bon appétit!

See on Instagram

Cuisine: Vegan Indian

Where: 5258 boul Saint-Laurent, Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: Tula first opened its doors in the spring of 2023 and has been thriving ever since. The restaurant specializes in vegan and vegetarian Indian dishes including a vegan butter chicken, vegan mango lassi and an entire vegan thali. Available from Monday to Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. guests can enjoy seven thali dishes from five provinces of India, all providing a diverse range of flavours, textures and ingredients in a single sitting.

Tula website

Euro-Deli Batory

Cuisine: Polish

Where: 115 rue Saint-Viateur O., Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: This quaint Polish spot nestled in Montreal's Mile-End offers some of the most authentic pierogis you'll have in the city. If you're looking for a full-on Polish feast, you can opt for the platter, which includes your choice of pierogi, Polish sausage, stuffed cabbage and a cabbage dish known as Kapusta. Note that if you decide to eat at Euro-Deli, going early is a must since there is very limited seating available inside.

Euro-Deli Batory Facebook page

La Panzeria

Cuisine: Italian

Where: 4084 rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: If you're on the hunt for a must-try Italian restaurant in the Plateau, La Panzeria has got you covered. From your traditional pastas and pizza to your more creative options, including the octopus sandwich. Made with marinated rapini, fried Mediterranean octopus cured and seasoned in the house, and fresh Apulian burrata topped with our signature sweet mint and lime vinaigrette, this sandwich doesn't disappoint.

La Panzeria website

Larry's

Cuisine: French

Where: 5201 boul. Saint-Laurent, Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: This charming French bistro is renowned for its delectable selection of petite dishes designed for sharing. Despite their modest portions, the cuisine bursts with bold and delightful flavours. Enthusiastic reviewers particularly endorse their petite pancakes, house-made sausages, and velvety scrambled eggs, which redefine the breakfast experience. Larry's also stands out with its beverage offerings, presenting indulgent, velvety lattes.

Larry's website

L'Avenue

Cuisine: Brunch

Where: 3612 rue Notre-Dame O., &922 rue Mont-Royal E., Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: L'Avenue first opened back in 2022 and is easily one of the well-known brunch spots in Montreal. It's famous for its ample portions and unique decor, including a motorcycle hanging from the ceiling. Visitors flock to this Plateau restaurant for their oversized colourful smoothies, satisfying huevos rancheros, and stacks of fluffy pancakes topped with blueberry coulis.

L'Avenue website

Café Chez Teta

Cuisine: Lebanese

Where: 227 rue Rachel E., Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: When it comes to must-try Lebanese restaurants in Montreal, it doesn't get any better than Café Chez Teta. The restaurant makes impeccable hummus and babaganoush as well as a variety of Lebanese pizzas known as manoushé. With a newly introduced terrasse and brand-new Arak cocktails, Café Chez Teta will transport your taste buds to the streets of Beirut.

Café Chez Teta website

Drogheria Fine

Where: 68 rue Fairmount O., Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: Drogheria Fine is renowned across Montreal for offering its delectable $5 gnocchi. Mhm, an entire takeaway box of gnocchi for only five dollars. The spot is solely known for its gnocchi and jarred sauce. Even with inflation, the Montreal eatery has kept its prices the same, allowing Montrealers and visitors alike to enjoy a delicious and cheap meal.

Drogheria Fine website

Ma Poule Mouillée

Cuisine: Portuguese

Where: 969 rue Rachel E., Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: For those who love Portuguese chicken, Ma Poule Mouilée is the spot to go to. The Montreal restaurant cooks their chicken over charcoal, offering a taste unlike anywhere else. For a bit of a change, give their poutine a try and make it spicy. Made up of house-cut fries, Sao Jorge cheese, chorizo, chicken and gravy, you will fall in love.

Ma Poule Mouillée website

Le Petit Coin Dumpling

Cuisine: Chinese

Where: 1201 rue Rachel E., Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: Le Petit Coin Dumpling is a laid-back restaurant facing the Plateau's iconic Parc La Fontaine. While seating is limited inside, it's always worth the wait on a busier day. Give their pork and shiitake mushroom dumplings as well as the shrimp dumplings made with peanut sauce a try and thank us later. During the warmer months, feel free to take your order to-go and enjoy your dumplings in the park.

Le Petit Coin Dumpling website

Cuisine: Southeast Asian

Where: 1139A rue Mont-Royal Est

Why You Need To Go: While the Southeast Asian eatery has a new location, Kra Pow is sticking with its favoured dishes including the iconic Beef Krapow, which is a street-food staple made with ground beef, Thai basil, garlic, chilli, and gluten-free sauces. Guests can also enjoy the Sambal Belacan Chicken, which is a Malaysian dish marinated in Kra Pow's special blend of chilli, belacan, garlic, and Thai basil. It is stir-fried then seared and served with toasted ground coconut and fried shallots.

Kra Pow website

Cuisine: Sub-Saharan/Pan-African

Where: 851 rue Rachel E., Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: Through modern reinterpretations of traditional African recipes, Le Virunga, which is run by Chef Maria and her daughter Zoya, will guide you on a culinary journey through sub-Saharan Africa's distinctive flavour. The dishes, both simple and creative, primarily reflect a deep respect for quality ingredients and, above all, a respect for the art of African cuisine.

Le Virunga website

La Banquise

Cuisine: Quebecois

Where: 994 rue Rachel E., Montreal, QC

Why You Need To Go: Now, while many might consider La Banquise to be "overhyped" I totally beg to differ. If there is one spot to experience a poutine in Montreal, it's at La Banquise. With countless options to choose from, affordable prices, quirky decor and close proximity to Parc La Fontaine, La Banquise is where it's at and always has been.

La Banquise website

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.

• Montreal Has A New Southeast Asian Restaurant In The Plateau Serving Signature Street-Style Food ›
• 19 Excellent Montreal Restaurants That Won't Cost Your Entire Paycheque ›
• I Tried The Chicken Sandwich From A&W, McDonald's & KFC — One Was A Clear Winner ›
• Air Canada Named 2 New Montreal Restaurants Among The Best In The Country - MTL Blog ›

Already have an account? Log in

Create an account to keep reading.

1. choose a plan.

Limited access to free articles

Unlimited access to all content, AI summaries, ad-free browsing and directly support our reporting by becoming a Patron 🙏. Cancel anytime.

2. Create your account

Montreal jobs new, 18 new montreal restaurants that opened in 2023, 9 montreal restaurants that should be on every visitor's list in 2024, 12 of the best halal restaurants in montreal, 15 montreal restaurants made this year's list of top 100 places to eat in canada, these 30 montreal restaurants are winning awards (and setting trends) in 2024, 13 montreal restaurants & terrasses that should be on every foodie's list this may, 11 montreal restaurants every local needs to visit this spring, 11 montreal restaurants every local needs to visit this summer, 7 casse-croûte restaurants in montreal every local needs to visit, 7 new montreal restaurants that you shouldn't miss this year, 8 hidden spots in montreal you'll want to get on your radar asap, 9 montreal cafés that should be on every visitor's list in 2024.

• Please enter a search term.
• Sun Life Canada
• Sun Life Global Investments
• SLC Management
• Sun Life Everbright

Hong Kong, SAR

• Sun Life Hong Kong
• Birla Sun Life
• Sun Life Global Solutions
• Sun Life Indonesia

International

• Sun Life International
• Sun Life Ireland
• Sun Life Malaysia

Philippines

• Sun Life Philippines
• Sun Life Grepa Financial
• Sun Life Singapore

United Kingdom

• Sun Life United Kingdom

United States

• Sun Life United States
• MFS Investment Management
• Bentall Kennedy Group
• Sun Life Vietnam

Investments overview

Plans and accounts, investment products.

• Mutual funds
• Segregated funds
• Annuity products
• Group investments
• Segregated funds mobile
• Annuity products mobile
• Find an advisor
• Retirement savings calculator

RRSP calculator

• Annuity calculator
• RRSP calculator mobile
• Annuity calculator mobile
• Saving for retirement
• Investing basics
• Managing your money
• Financial advice

Insurance overview

• Life insurance
• Term life insurance
• Permanent life insurance

Health insurance

• Travel insurance
• Mortgage protection insurance
• Business owner's insurance
• Submit a claim

Get a quote

• Life insurance calculator
• Understanding life insurance

Health insurance overview

• Personal health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Critical illness insurance
• Long term care insurance
• Disability insurance
• Group benefits
• Find a healthcare provider
• Changing employer
• Critical illness insurance calculator
• Be a fan of your health
• Diabetes support
• Fitness & family health
• Mental wellness
• Understanding health insurance
• Sign in Sign in
• Get started Get started

10 free things to do in Montreal this summer

Don’t let summer burn a hole in your pocket. Enjoy all the free things Montreal has to offer.

Summer in Montreal is a vibrant and exciting time. There’s an abundance of free activities for both locals and tourists to enjoy. From cultural events to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone. This makes it easy to stay on budget without missing out on fun.

Here are 10 free things to do in Montreal this summer:

1. Explore Mount Royal Park

Enjoy a leisurely hike, a picnic and even birdwatching in the beautiful Mount Royal Park. This green oasis in the heart of the city offers stunning views of the skyline. You can also catch free outdoor concerts and events at the park throughout the summer.

2. Wander through Old Montreal

Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of Old Montreal and discover historic architecture, art galleries and street performers. Don't miss Place Jacques-Cartier for vibrant street entertainment and outdoor cafes.

3. Attend festivals and events

Montreal is known for its lively festivals, many of which offer free events and activities. Keep an eye out for events like the Montreal International Jazz Festival , Piknic Électronik and the Montreal Cirque Festival .

4. Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

On the first Sunday of every month, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts offers free admission to its permanent collections. Explore a wide range of art, from classic to contemporary, in this world-class museum.

5. Attend a Tam-Tams Session

Join locals and tourists alike at the Sunday Tam-Tams percussion session at Mount Royal Park. There, you’ll experience lively drum circles and dance performances at this iconic Montreal event.

6. Explore Jean-Talon Market

Immerse yourself in Montreal's culinary scene at Jean-Talon Market . It’s one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in North America. Sample local produce, cheese and baked goods, and experience the atmosphere of this colourful bustling market.

7. Enjoy outdoor movie screenings

Several parks and outdoor venues in Montreal host free movie screenings during the summer months. Grab a blanket and some snacks and enjoy a movie under the stars with friends and family.

8. Take a walking tour

Discover the city's history and culture by joining a free walking tour of Montreal. Many organizations offer guided tours of different neighborhoods, allowing you to learn about the city's rich heritage.

9. Explore street art in the Plateau

The Plateau neighborhood is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a self-guided tour to discover colorful murals, graffiti and installations by local and international artists.

10. Relax at Parc Jean-Drapeau

Escape the busyness of the city at Parc Jean-Drapeau, located on the Saint Helen's and Notre Dame Islands. Take a leisurely walk, swim or simply relax by the water while enjoying beautiful views of the city.

From exploring parks and markets to attending cultural events and festivals, Montreal offers a wealth of free activities. Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your city or a tourist eager to experience Montreal's unique charm, these attractions are sure to make your summer memorable.

Related articles

Top 5 retirement travel tips

Being retired doesn’t mean you have to give up adventure. With a little planning, you can stretch your travel dollars to find more adventure than ever!

Room for savings: Travel and stay for less

Want to stretch your vacation budget? Discover your accommodation personality and check out these online options to save a lot of cash.

Brighter Life emails

Sign up for FREE personalized tips, tools and offers.

I understand I can unsubscribe at any time and acknowledge that this email address belongs to me. Learn more about  privacy  and how we collect data to provide you with more relevant content.

Tools & calculators

Net worth calculator.

Use this calculator to find out how your net worth – the difference between what you own (your assets) and  what you owe (your liabilities) compares to other Canadians.

This tool will help you see how changing what you put in your registered retirement savings plan (RRSP) can affect your retirement savings.

Related products

• Tax-free savings account

Need financial advice?

Make well-informed decisions with helpful advice. Talk to your advisor or find one near you - there is no cost to talk to an advisor.

You can buy some of our insurance products online.

How advisors help

Enjoyed this article?

Get the latest money and health articles delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to Sun Life's Brighter Life emails for personalized tips, tools and offers.

I understand I can unsubscribe at any time and acknowledge that this email address belongs to me. Learn more about  privacy  and how we collect data to give you relevant content.

How to discover Montreal from the inside?

Montreal, a city rich in culture, history, and diversity, offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Discovering Montreal from the inside invites you to explore beyond the surface, to delve into the heart of the city’s life, its people, and its neighbourhoods. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, getting to know Montreal from the inside offers a fresh perspective on this beautiful city.

1. Dive into the craft beer scene

A city’s local beer can tell you a lot about its culture and people. For those eager to immerse themselves in the authentic spirit of Montreal, embarking on a craft beer tour might just be the perfect activity. Here’s why. The city’s breweries are often small-scale operations where passion and creativity flow as freely as the beer itself. They serve as gathering spots for locals and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into the day-to-day life of the city.

2. Discover the neighbourhoods

Montreal is home to a variety of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character and charm. Here are some of the key areas:

• Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal): Known for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and attractions like Notre-Dame Basilica.
• Downtown (Centre-Ville): The business hub of the city, featuring skyscrapers, shopping centers, and museums.
• Plateau Mont-Royal: A trendy area known for its colourful houses, cafés, boutiques, and vibrant arts scene.
• Mile End: A bohemian neighbourhood famous for its music scene, vintage shops, and diverse culinary offerings.
• Little Italy (Petite Italie): Renowned for its Italian cafés, markets, and the Jean-Talon market, one of the largest public markets in North America.
• Griffintown: A rapidly developing area known for its industrial heritage, contemporary art galleries, and chic restaurants.
• Outremont: A quiet, upscale neighbourhood with beautiful parks, grand homes, and a strong Hasidic Jewish community.
• Saint-Henri: An up-and-coming neighbourhood with a mix of traditional and modern, featuring trendy eateries and historic sites.
• Hochelaga-Maisonneuve: Home to the Olympic Stadium, Montreal Botanical Garden, and Biodome, with a growing arts community.
• Gay Village (Le Village): Known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, nightlife, and colourful pedestrian-only street during summer.
• Westmount: An affluent residential area with sweeping views of the city, elegant homes, and lush parks.
• Côte-des-Neiges: A diverse neighbourhood home to the Université de Montréal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and a variety of ethnic restaurants and shops.

3. Local events and festivals

Attending these festivals allows you to experience Montreal’s rich cultural tapestry firsthand, from music and art to food and history. It is also a perfect chance to mingle with locals, uncovering insider tips and favourite spots that might not be found in guidebooks. Moreover, these gatherings often feature unique performances and exhibitions that highlight the creativity and diversity of Montreal’s artistic community.

Discovering Montreal from the inside offers an enriching journey through the heart of its neighbourhoods, culture, and seasonal rhythms. Embrace the opportunity to see Montreal through the eyes of those who know it best, and you’ll leave with memories of a city that’s as diverse and welcoming as it is beautiful.

4. Embrace the foodie culture

Montreal’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious. This city, a melting pot of cultures, offers a gastronomic journey that tantalizes the taste buds of locals and visitors alike. Start your day with a warm, freshly baked Montreal bagel, often debated to rival New York’s. These doughy delights, slightly sweetened with honey water before baking, create a unique, crispy crust and tender interior.

No visit is complete without indulging in poutine, Quebec’s beloved comfort food. This dish of fries, cheese curds, and rich gravy has countless variations, including smoked meat or foie gras toppings for the adventurous eater. For a taste of Montreal’s Jewish heritage, savor a smoked meat sandwich at one of the city’s iconic delis. Thinly sliced, spiced beef brisket stacked high on rye bread with mustard offers a flavorful nod to the city’s diverse culinary influences.

5. Engage with Montreal’s art and history

Montreal, a city that prides itself on its vibrant arts scene and rich history, invites visitors to explore its numerous museums and galleries. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) stands out, offering an extensive collection that spans from classical to contemporary. Here, art enthusiasts can wander through galleries filled with works by Canadian and international artists, engaging with the visual narrative of cultures around the world. For a deeper dive into Montreal’s past, the Pointe-à-Callière, Montreal Archaeology and History Complex, offers a fascinating journey through the city’s archaeological remains. This museum uniquely combines history with technology, bringing Montreal’s layered past to life through interactive exhibits and immersive experiences.

6. Outdoor adventures within the city

Montreal’s beauty extends beyond its bustling streets to the great outdoors, offering city dwellers and visitors alike a chance to engage with nature without leaving the urban environment. The jewel in Montreal’s crown of green spaces is Mount Royal. This sprawling park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, invites hikers, cyclists, and picnickers to enjoy its scenic vistas and winding paths. In winter, the park transforms into a wonderland for snowshoeing and tobogganing. For those seeking tranquility, the Montreal Botanical Garden offers a peaceful retreat with its themed gardens and greenhouses, showcasing flora from around the world. Meanwhile, adrenaline seekers can kayak or paddleboard along the Lachine Canal, enjoying unique views of the city’s historic buildings and industrial heritage.

Discovering Montreal from the inside means engaging with its food, art, and outdoor spaces in a way that goes beyond the surface. Each bite, each piece of art, and each outdoor adventure tells a story of this city’s diverse culture, rich history, and vibrant community spirit. Montreal welcomes you to live these experiences, inviting you to immerse yourself fully in what makes this city truly unique. Whether you’re indulging in its culinary delights, exploring its artistic treasures, or embracing the great outdoors, Montreal promises an unforgettable journey for all who seek to discover its hidden gems.

Busines Newswire

10 Montréal “musts” for first-time visitors

Daniel Baylis

Daniel Baylis is a writer and adventurer. Born in British Columbia, Daniel came to Montréal with the kooky bohemian notion that he would write poetry, learn to speak French and fall in love. Having achieved various levels of success in said domains, he now focuses his energy on a new hobby: artisanal pickling.

Facebook  /  Instagram  /  Twitter

This article was updated on January 26, 2024.

To simplify your initial Montréal visit, we’ve compiled a simple list of crowd-pleasin’ attractions. Think of it as a “ greatest hits ” list of what to see and do in a diverse and exciting city.

In no particular order, here are 10 activities and attractions that first-time Montréal visitors might want to put on their “must see” list.

Climb Mount Royal (the lookout)

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (the same landscape architect who crafted New York’s Central Park), the “mountain” park at the heart of the city is the city’s most iconic landmark — and the most popular place to snap a Montréal selfie. Reach the viewpoint at the top of  Mount Royal Park  by walking up the stairs or with a guided tour. In the chalet at the summit, visitors will find washrooms and a small canteen for refreshments. Give yourself at least two hours.

Spree on Sainte-Catherine Street

As one of the longest commercial strips in Canada, Sainte-Catherine Street is the perfect place for retail rehabilitation. You’ll find international fashion mainstays such as Zara, Victoria’s Secret and H&M. But don’t miss the regional retailers, such as Montréal-made leather goods at  M0851 , the coolest kicks at  Little Burgundy  and a plethora of options at beloved department store  Simons . Plus, don’t miss the shops in Centre Eaton de Montréal , Complexe Desjardins , and Place Montréal Trust .

Eat emblematic Montréal cuisine

Part of the  joie de vivre  culture of Montréal includes chowing down on great grub. Sink your teeth into a juicy smoked-meat sandwich at world-famous  Schwartz’s  deli. Discover why Montréal locals fervently adore their bagels at the wood-fire bakeries of  Fairmount Bagel Bakery   or  St-Viateur Bagel . (Clue: the bagels are dipped in honey water before baking). Sample our notorious poutine at  La Banquise . Finally, quench your thirst with a locally produced beverage, such as  Rise kombucha  or  1642 Cola .

Head back in time (in Old Montréal)

A first-timer’s visit to Montréal is not complete without meandering through the charming cobblestone streets of the  city’s old district . With juxtaposed architecture dating back as far as 1685, visitors have the opportunity to see — quite literally — how the city first began developing. Stop at  Notre-Dame Basilica   for a glimpse at the incredible stained glass art (and for a moment of stillness). Then head to historic  Place Jacques-Cartier  and install yourself on a terrace, where you’ll be perfectly positioned to watch street performers and portrait artists — and where the sangria floweth freely.

Ascend To Saint Joseph’s Oratory

Saint Joseph is often viewed as the saint of everyday life. It’s not everyday, however, that you can visit one of the most popular catholic pilgrimage sites in the world.  Saint Joseph’s Oratory  is a Montréal masterpiece — the  pièce de résistance  among a city of one thousand stunning churches. The oratory is home to a magnificent Rudolf von Beckerath organ, which is ranked among the ten most prestigious in the world. Also, the basilica’s huge dome reaches 97 meters making it second only in height to Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Temporary exhibitions are available throughout the year. Ride the metro to Côte-des-Neiges station and then walk the divine staircase to the oratory.

Go “underground”

Montréal contains  a vast network of pedestrian walkways  — 32 kilometres (20 miles) of connecting passageways, to be exact — beneath street level. During the winter months, approximately 500,000 people circulate on this network daily, using the passages to connect with offices, trains, shops, and restaurants. Referred to as RÉSO (“network”  en français ), the system connects the city’s convention centre, 10 major hotels and a handful of shopping malls, such as the Centre Eaton de Montréal, Complexe Desjardins , and Place Montréal Trust .  Grab a PDF map  and get started on a truly “sub” urban adventure.

Market yourself

Montréalers love to eat. Sure we’ve got our characteristic local food (see above), but one of the best ways to savour the city is to visit one of the   local public markets . With a wide range of regional products from across Québec,  Marché Jean-Talon  — located in the heart of Little Italy — is the largest and most culturally diverse market in Montréal. For a smaller yet equally delicious option, the art deco-style  Marché Atwater  offers an array of specialty products and delicatessen treats. (Plus, it’s located beside the picturesque Lachine Canal.) Wherever you go, be sure to sample seasonal treats such as maple syrup in the spring, strawberries in the summer, and Macintosh apples in the autumn.

Hit a new plateau

The spiral staircases of the colourful  Plateau  neighbourhood present an iconic image of Montréal. In this  quartier  you’ll find a predominantly French-speaking community featuring an eclectic mix of artists, international students, and young professionals, spiced with a healthy dose of other cultures and languages to raise the diversity quotient that much higher. For a glimpse of the Plateau, walk along Avenue Mont-Royal, stopping for a recharge at Kouign Amann Bakery , or eat a meal at stylish bistro  Chez Victoire . If it’s a sunny day, we recommend doing as the locals do: grab a picnic and lounge beneath the leafy trees in peaceful  Parc La Fontaine .

Go East (for a feast of attractions)

Montréal’s eastside neighbourhood of Hochelaga-Maisonneuve is home to a handful of awesome attractions — all within walking distance to each other. Firstly, the  Olympic Stadium  is a grandiose remnant from the history-making 1976 summer games, and arguably the most recognizable architectural structure in the entire city. At the soaring inclined tower of the stadium (even taller than the Leaning Tower of Pisa), visitors can ride an elevator for a bird’s eye view of the cityscape. Also in the neighbourhood are the internationally-lauded  Montréal Botanical Garden , which feature seasonal installations such as the much-loved Chinese lantern festival in the autumn months. Last but not least, the kids will go wild for the critters at the  Biodôme , where five ecosystems are home to over 250 different species of animals.

Find your art beat

Montréal is a creative city. Artistic-inclined visitors will relish the multiple museums and galleries, home to both historic and modern works. As one of the most important institutions in North America, the  Montréal Museum of Fine Arts  is the premier stop for any art aficionado. The multiple rooms contain painting, sculpture, graphic art, photography, and decorative art objects, and the gallery prides itself on world-class temporary exhibits. For a more modern approach, visit Canada’s leading museum dedicated exclusively to contemporary art. The  Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal  (MAC) features a permanent collection, however the curators truly flex their “modern” muscles with the numerous multimedia events. Finally, the  Phi Centre  showcases art in all its glorious forms — check out the event schedule for a listing of live performances.

In this article

Enjoy the best of montréal.

The Tourisme Montréal newsletter gives you the inside scoop on everything happening in the city.

• Meet our partners
• Advertise with us

A newcomer’s guide to making Montreal home

Montreal stands out not only for its rich history and arts scene but also its unique bilingual environment. As a city that boasts eclectic festivals and a dining scene rivaled by few, it offers newcomers an array of enriching experiences.

This guide will help newcomers looking to settle in the city, touching on aspects from mastering the public transit system to understanding the educational institutions the city has to offer.

Montreal's neighbourhoods

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

Montreal boasts a diverse range of neighbourhoods, each with its unique character and charm. While the affordability of living in these neighbourhoods can vary, there are several popular areas that attract residents for their distinctive features.

The Plateau-Mont-Royal is known for its vibrant artsy atmosphere and is a trendy and bohemian neighborhood with colorful houses, trendy boutiques, and an array of cafes and restaurants. The area is popular among students and young professionals. While it offers a lively lifestyle, housing costs in the Plateau can be relatively higher compared to some other neighborhoods in the city.

The Mile End is adjacent to the Plateau and is renowned for its artistic community, diverse population, and an abundance of independent shops and cafes. It strikes a balance between a hipster vibe and a family-friendly atmosphere. Housing costs in Mile End can vary, but it is generally considered more affordable than the Plateau.

Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie is a family-friendly neighborhood characterized by tree-lined streets, parks, and a mix of residential and commercial areas. Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie offers a more affordable housing market compared to some of the trendier neighborhoods while still providing a sense of community.

Côte-des-Neiges is home to a diverse population, including a large student community due to its proximity to the University of Montreal. Côte-des-Neiges offers a multicultural atmosphere. The neighborhood features various cultural institutions, parks, and affordable housing options, making it a popular choice for students and families alike.

These neighborhoods showcase Montreal's diversity and cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Prospective residents can explore these areas to find the one that best aligns with their priorities, whether it be cultural vibrancy, family-friendly amenities, or more budget-friendly living options.

Navigating the STM (Société de transport de Montréal)

Navigating the public transport system , Société de transport de Montréal (STM) in Montreal involves using a combination of buses and the metro to reach your destination.

Firstly, you should consider getting a Fare Card. An Opus card is the smart card used for STM services. Opus cards can be obtained at metro stations, some convenience stores, or online. You will then load your Opus card with the appropriate fare. Fares can be paid for a single trip or with a variety of passes, including daily, weekly, and monthly options.

You can use the STM website or mobile apps to plan your route. The STM website provides a trip planner tool where you can enter your starting point and destination to get detailed directions and schedules.

Montreal's metro system is a quick and efficient way to travel within the city. There are four lines: Green, Orange, Blue, and Yellow. In addition, the bus network in Montreal is extensive and covers the entire city. Bus stops are marked with a blue sign.

If you need to transfer between buses or from bus to metro, use the same Opus card for a transfer within a specified time frame (usually 120 minutes). Transfers are free if you're continuing your journey.

The STM provides real-time information about bus and metro arrivals through their website, mobile apps, and electronic displays at some bus stops and metro stations.

Parks and outdoor spaces in Montreal

Montreal also boasts an array of beautiful outdoor spaces and parks that offer residents and visitors a retreat from the urban lifestyle. These green spaces contribute to the city's livability and provide recreational opportunities year-round.

Mount Royal Park is one of Montreal's most iconic outdoor destinations. The park is a sprawling oasis designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect behind New York's Central Park. The park features hiking trails, picturesque viewpoints, and Beaver Lake. In the summer, residents gather for picnics and outdoor activities, while winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

La Fontaine Park is nestled in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood and is a favorite among locals. With its large pond, walking paths, and open spaces, the park provides a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. In the summer, the park hosts outdoor concerts, theater performances, and a popular weekly market, attracting a diverse crowd of Montrealers.

The Lachine Canal is lined by a scenic bike path and walking trail and stretches from Old Montreal to Lake Saint-Louis. The Lachine Canal offers a picturesque route for cyclists, joggers, and leisurely strollers. Its waterfront features green spaces, public art installations, and recreational facilities, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Montreal’s Botanical Garden is a horticultural gem featuring themed gardens, ponds, and greenhouses. Visitors can explore the Japanese Garden, the Chinese Garden, and the fragrant Rose Garden, making it a serene haven for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful respite.

Thriving industries in Montreal

Montreal, as one of Canada's economic powerhouses, hosts a diverse range of thriving industries that contribute significantly to its economic vitality.

In particular, Montreal is a global hub for the aerospace industry, housing major companies such as Bombardier Aerospace and CAE. The city is renowned for its expertise in aircraft design, manufacturing, and maintenance. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) are also headquartered in Montreal.

Montreal has also emerged as a leading technology and innovation hub, attracting start-ups and established tech companies. The city's artificial intelligence (AI) sector is particularly noteworthy, with research institutions like Mila (Montreal Institute for Learning Algorithms) at the forefront of AI advancements.

Due to the city’s strong presence in the gaming and entertainment industry, Montreal is home to numerous video game studios, including Ubisoft Montreal, one of the world's largest game development studios. The city's creative talent has made it a focal point for digital arts, animation, and film production, contributing to its reputation as a global entertainment hub.

Finally, Montreal also has a robust life sciences sector, with a concentration of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. The city's universities and research centers contribute to advancements in medical research and development. The pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, among others, has a significant presence in Montreal.

Emergency services in Montreal

Navigating Montreal's emergency services is crucial for residents and visitors to ensure a prompt and efficient response in case of emergencies.

In case of immediate danger or emergency, dial 911. This number is the universal emergency services hotline in Montreal and throughout Canada. Operators are trained to handle a range of emergencies, including medical, fire, and police situations.

In addition, Montreal has several hospitals equipped to handle medical emergencies. The Montreal General Hospital, the Montreal Children's Hospital, and the Jewish General Hospital are among the prominent healthcare facilities. In a medical emergency, call 911 or head to the nearest hospital's emergency department. The Urgences-santé service (811) can provide non-emergency medical advice.

Montreal's police force, the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM), is responsible for law enforcement. Call 911 for emergencies requiring police assistance. For non-emergency situations, contact the local police station in your borough. The SPVM provides community policing services to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

As a bilingual city, emergency services are available in both English and French. If you're more comfortable communicating in a specific language, don't hesitate to mention your preference when contacting emergency services.

Newcomer services in Montreal

Montreal offers a range of newcomer services to assist individuals and families who have recently arrived in the city.

Montreal has several welcome centers that provide information and resources for newcomers. These centers offer orientation sessions, workshops, and one-on-one assistance to help individuals understand essential aspects of life in the city, including housing, healthcare, education, and employment.

Organizations such as CISSS (Integrated Health and Social Services Centers) and local community centers offer integration programs specifically designed for newcomers. These programs focus on language acquisition, cultural adaptation, and social integration. They often include language courses, employment workshops, and cultural orientation sessions.

Given the bilingual nature of Montreal, language support is crucial for newcomers. Organizations like English-language school boards and language training centers offer language courses, language assessment services, and language exchange programs to enhance newcomers' proficiency in either English or French.

Finding suitable housing is a significant concern for newcomers. Various organizations in Montreal help with housing search, landlord-tenant relations, and understanding rental agreements. Information on affordable housing options is also made available to support newcomers in establishing a secure living arrangement.

Montreal recognizes the importance of cultural integration for newcomers. Various cultural organizations, community centers, and local initiatives offer social and cultural activities to help newcomers connect with the local community, make friends, and feel a sense of belonging.

Education in Montreal

Montreal is home to a diverse and reputable array of educational institutions , offering a range of programs and fostering a multicultural learning environment.

Montreal boasts several world-class universities, including McGill University, known for its excellence in research and global reputation. The Université de Montréal, another prestigious institution, is recognized for its French-language programs and extensive research contributions.

Quebec's unique educational system includes CEGEPs (Collèges d'enseignement général et professionnel), providing pre-university and technical programs. Notable CEGEPs in Montreal include Dawson College and Vanier College, offering a wide range of courses and serving as crucial stepping stones for students transitioning to higher education.

Montreal houses technical and vocational institutes such as the École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS) and the Institut de tourisme et d'hôtellerie du Québec (ITHQ). These institutions provide specialized training in areas like engineering, technology, and hospitality.

With a significant international student population, Montreal's educational institutions are welcoming and supportive of students from around the world.

• immigration quebec
• international students
• Quebec immigration
• settle in Canada
• settlement services
• study in canada
• work in Canada
• Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
• Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at [email protected]

• Live Webinar

• Express Entry
• Family Sponsorship
• Citizenship
• Life in Canada

Johnston: Sergei Bobrovsky making his Hall of Fame case with another career plateau in Cup Final

The Athletic has live coverage of the Oilers vs. Panthers in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final

SUNRISE, Fla. — In a Stanley Cup Final with such intense focus on what a championship might do to burnish the legacies of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl , it’s been easy to overlook how much is at stake for Sergei Bobrovsky while staring down those superstars.

Advertisement

Approaching his 36th birthday, the stoic Florida Panthers goaltender is knocking on the door of the Hockey Hall of Fame. And should he help his team beat the Edmonton Oilers three more times over the next two weeks, they will almost certainly have to open it for him at some point after his career comes to a close.

“If he wins the Stanley Cup, he’s in,” said former NHL goaltender Brian Boucher, who is doing color commentary of the Final for the Sports USA radio broadcast. “I mean, he’s close even without it, but you win a Cup? For sure, he’s a Hall of Famer.”

While that is obviously the last thing on Bobrovsky’s mind right now, it was only natural for onlookers to start thinking along those lines while watching him deliver a 32-save shutout in Game 1.

It was a performance for the ages from the third-oldest man on the ice — one you’d have a hard time imagining just two years ago when it would have been a commonly accepted fact that the Panthers couldn’t give away Bobrovsky and his $10 million cap hit, or even as recently as 15 months ago when he was watching backup Alex Lyon lead Florida on a late-season charge into the playoffs.

And yet here we are viewing his entire career in a different light because of what’s transpired since.

Today, Bobrovsky is seen as the two-time Vezina Trophy winner chasing a real legacy in the Cup Final after running out of steam during last year’s championship series against Vegas . He started this one by turning aside six McDavid shots on Saturday night, plus a couple of clear breakaways, and had more than one Panthers teammate describe him as meaning “everything” to their team.

“In the environment of the Stanley Cup Final, that was an elite game for sure,” said Panthers head coach Paul Maurice.

Bobrovsky’s unrelenting work ethic has become the stuff of legend in South Florida, and it’s been so often cited here that it tends to overshadow the immense amount of talent he’s shown since his NHL career began 14 years ago.

Boucher would know since he was the Russian’s first goaltending partner after the Philadelphia Flyers signed Bobrovsky out of the KHL as an undrafted free agent. At that point, Bobrovsky didn’t speak any English. And Boucher knew very little about his new teammate before they stepped on the ice for the first time together in August 2010 for a session with Flyers goaltending coach Jeff Reese.

“Ten minutes I was on the ice with Bob, and I told Jeff Reese, ‘Uh oh. I’m in trouble,’” Boucher said. “And he goes, ‘Yeah, you are.’”

What stood out the most?

“Amazing athleticism, explosiveness,” Boucher said. “I’d not seen a goalie that good. It really boggled my mind how a guy that talented can go undrafted. Like I was like, ‘How do you miss a guy like this?’ He was that good. I knew from that moment he’d be a star in the league.”

Bobrovsky has taken some twists and turns along the way — claiming both of his Vezinas as part of a seven-year run in Columbus before signing a seven-year, $70 million contract in Florida as a free agent in 2019.

In just the second season of that deal, he was trending toward a platoon situation with former backup Chris Driedger. His play was not befitting of someone being paid more than every NHL goaltender other than Carey Price. The Panthers also had promising prospect Spencer Knight arriving on the scene around that time.

However, that history was all water under the bridge as chants of “Bobby! Bobby! Bobby!” repeatedly rained down at Amerant Bank Arena while Bobrovsky became the oldest goaltender since Martin Brodeur in 2012 to win a Stanley Cup Final game and the oldest since Tim Thomas in 2011 to deliver a shutout in the championship series.

Gaining entrance to the Hockey Hall of Fame has traditionally been particularly difficult for goaltenders to do — although the 2023 class included Henrik Lundqvist, Tom Barrasso and Mike Vernon — but Bobrovsky would have an incredibly compelling case if he managed to add a Stanley Cup as a career-crowning achievement.

In addition to the Vezinas, he currently sits 14th on the NHL’s all-time wins list and should comfortably be able to climb inside the top 10 with two years remaining on his contract and him showing no signs of slowing down.

There’s also an element of how he redefined the way the position could be played with his quickness and explosive movements around the crease. Incredibly, his body has held up despite that demanding style — one Boucher believes the other top-notch Russian goaltenders who came after him have mimicked.

“I played with (Miikka) Kiprusoff, (Nikolai) Khabibulin, (Evgeni) Nabokov,” said Boucher. “I played with some good goalies. I had not seen anything like that. Look at the guys now.

“Bob’s not as big, but they’re all the same. You watch them: (Andrei) Vasilevskiy, (Igor) Shesterkin, (Ilya) Sorokin. They all kind of look the same. It’s incredible. They’re so flexible, they’re so powerful.

“Before him, you didn’t see many guys like that.”

(Photo: Bruce Bennett / Getty Images)

Get all-access to exclusive stories.

Subscribe to The Athletic for in-depth coverage of your favorite players, teams, leagues and clubs. Try a week on us.

Chris Johnston is a senior writer covering the NHL for The Athletic. He has two decades of experience as an NHL Insider, having appeared on Hockey Night in Canada and the NHL Network before joining TSN in 2021. He currently hosts the "Chris Johnston Show" on the Steve Dangle Podcast Network. He's written previously for the Toronto Star, Sportsnet and The Canadian Press. Follow Chris on Twitter @ reporterchris