visit montreal plateau

Find the scene in the Plateau and Mile End

For many, the Plateau is quintessential Montréal. Spiral staircases, bagels, Arcade Fire – it all started here in this rich and vast neighbourhood north of downtown. Hip, trendy and artsy, the Plateau – especially its famed enclave of Mile End – is known as much for its residential quaintness as its festive nighttime antics. By day, kids play in the parks and friends debate politics in cafés; by night, restaurants and bars teem with people.

Feel the artsy vibe and hang with locals

Soak up the creative energy that flows through the Plateau’s cafés, bars, bookstores, restaurants and designer shops, which stand alongside former textile mills and churches turned into start-up incubators or condo buildings. Nerve centre of Montréal’s trendsetting cultural scene, this neighbourhood is home to a unique and multicultural mix of lively shopping strips and pretty residential side streets with colourful houses and spiral staircases. Find the heart of it in the hood’s northern quarter, Mile End, a hipster enclave where you’ll dig up carefully curated vintage shops, delicious bites and next-level lattes – no to mention authentic Montréal style bagels.

Live la vida Montréal

You’ll feel like a local in three seconds flat thanks to the laid-back vibe and welcoming spirit that reigns here. Whether it’s a shopping expedition down the Plateau’s Avenue Mont-Royal or a coffee date in Mile End, get a first-person sense of real life in La Belle Ville.

• Catch a live music show at Casa Del Popolo .
• Feast on foie gras poutine at Au Pied de Cochon .
• Bite into fresh bagels at Fairmount   or St-Viateur Bagel .
• Shop your heart out at the 3 Wizards Shop .
• Try refined bistro cuisine at  Chez Victoire .
• Sip on some coffee at Le Petit Dep .
• Try a tasty vegan dish at Lola Rosa ’s.
• Enjoy a pint of beer on a patio.
• Tour the town differently with Fitz and Follwel l.
• Uncover unique designer finds at m0851 .
• Enjoy an incredible meal at Restaurant de l'ITHQ .

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.

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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

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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..

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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.

Understand [ edit ]

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.

Get in [ edit ]

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.

See [ edit ]

Buildings [ edit ]

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.

Parks [ edit ]

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 )

Art [ edit ]

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.  

Do [ edit ]

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 .  

Festivals [ edit ]

• 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 .  

Buy [ edit ]

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.

Clothing [ edit ]

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.  

Music [ edit ]

• 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.  

Eat [ edit ]

Coffee [ edit ].

• 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.  

Ice cream [ edit ]

• 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.  

Budget [ edit ]

• 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.  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 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 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 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.  

Drink [ edit ]

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 [ edit ]

• 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.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• 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 .  

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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!

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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!

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

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Where to Eat in the Plateau

From downright iconic to under-the-radar, here are 22 essential places to dine well in the neighbourhood

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Montreal’s “bohemian” ilk may have ventured off to new frontiers, but the Plateau, with its highly walkable streets and colourful early-20th century facades, continues to impress — especially in the food department.

The neighbourhood offers some of the city’s most iconic restaurants (Schwartz’s, Au Pied de Cochon , Ma Poule Mouillée ) and foods (poutine, Portuguese chicken, smoked meat), but there are other must-try options. The Plateau’s main strips — St-Laurent, Duluth, Mont-Royal, and St-Denis — feature the bulk of the restaurants, but it’s worth perusing side streets for lesser-sung neighbourhood gems. And while Mile End is officially part of the Plateau-Mont-Royal borough, the neighbourhood is covered on a different map .

With more than a decade to its name, this Mont-Royal Avenue destination is celebrated for chef Yasuhisa Okazaki’s elegant seafood-laden menu blending French and Japanese influences. From the team behind Le Club Chasse et Pêche and Le Serpent , Le Filet is similarly chic and also a fine pick for a special night out.

• Book with OpenTable
• Open in Google Maps

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Restaurant Le Filet (@restaurantlefilet)

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Named after a cool, colourful seaside neighbourhood in Lima, this St-Denis newcomer dishes causas (mashed potato terrines filled with ingredients like avocado, grilled octopus, shrimp, and more); pollo a la brasa, the nation’s famous crispy-skinned roast chicken; chicharrón (succulent fried pork) in taco and sandwich form; and a whole gamut of mahi-mahi ceviche. Its weekend brunch is also worth checking out.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Barranco MTL (@barrancomtl)

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Fittingly located steps away from Parc du Portugal on Marie-Anne Street, this rustic, no-fuss Portuguese spot has been a neighbourhood stalwart for nearly 50 years. The focus is on traditional, home-style cooking, with garlicky shrimp and salt cod fritters as starters and charcoal-grilled meats and fish — the sardines are delicious — for the main act. Add some house wine to wash it all down.

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When it comes to flavour, this pint-sized, family-run Japanese lunch counter punches far above its weight. Noren’s short, affordable menu zooms in on takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), but incorporates weekly bento boxes and specials into the mix, with veggie soba noodles and Hiyashi (chilled) udon recently making appearances. Seating inside is limited, but takeout is always an option.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NOREN (@restaurantnoren)

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Le Majestique

A prime example of what happens when great dining intersects with a more casual bar setting. From happy hour oyster specials and beef tataki to an iconic 12-inch hot dog and some of the best French fries in town, everything Le Majestique does is superb. And it’s open daily until 3 a.m.

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Café Chez Téta

A Plateau newcomer and 2021 Eater Award winner , this café’s name honours its founder’s “téta” (“grandmother” in Lebanese.) A simple formula of Lebanese salads, dips, and piping hot manouché flatbreads with spiced meat, za’atar, cheese, and more has proven to do the trick, especially when followed by a hot cardamom or halva latte and a slice of sfouf (turmeric cake).

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Le Réservoir

Long looked to for its craft beer, Le Réservoir has seen more culinary traction since the owners of the now-closed (but not forgotten) Hôtel Herman came on board six years ago . Their efforts have yielded fantastic results — think haddock accras, chicken terrine, and sea bass ceviche — in a much more casual setting than their previous venture. And the beer is still exquisite.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Réservoir (@brasserie_reservoir)

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Maison Publique

A noted gastropub that favours flavours and ingredients from across Canada, chef Derek Dammann’s 10-year-old establishment on the corner of Marquette and Gilford has a deliciously heavyset menu filled with starches, carbs, and proteins. Expect dishes like baked oysters with marmite, carrots with whipped ricotta, foie gras parfait, or pasta with pork ragu, but note that the restaurant regularly updates its chalkboard menu.

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Yokato Yokabai

Sharing a space with sibling izakaya Ichigo Ichie , this Drolet Street ramen bar is a knockout. Kevin Fung, who also owns Imadake in Westmount, opened Yokato Yokabai in 2015 — and it seems to have been packed ever since. With all-organic ingredients, noodles made daily, and flavour-packed tonkotsu (pork), torikotsu (chicken), gomami (sesame), and vegan mushroom broths, how could it not be?

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yokato Yokabai Ramen (@yokatoyokabai)

Chez Claudette

Chez Claudette may not be the most popular poutine peddler in the neighbourhood (that title undoubtedly goes to La Banquise or Ma Poule Mouillée ). Still, its take on the Québécois trifecta of fries, gravy, and cheese curds has a well-deserved reputation as among the city’s best. Though the 40-year-old casse-croûte was once a 24-hour haunt, note that it now closes at 10 p.m. daily.

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Chez José Café

Open for just over a quarter-century, this iconic Duluth Avenue café serves breakfasts and lunches that are worth the visit. Its Portuguese breakfast with fried eggs and chorizo, saucy sandwiches stuffed with omelette, and tomato-based seafood soup are go-tos, but its vegan options, sweets, and smoothies are great, too.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chez José Café (@chezjosecafebrunch)

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With an original smoked meat spice recipe and delicatessen that goes back to 1928, Reuban Schwartz’s legacy lives on in one of the most famous restaurants in the city. If endorsements from celebrities and long lines outside its doors aren’t convincing enough, a “fatty” with a side pickle will be. Superstar singer Céline Dion now proudly owns the restaurant.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Schwartz's (@schwartzsofficial)

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La Panzeria

There’s no scarcity of top-notch Italian eats on the island, but cuisine from the country’s Apulian region is hardly well-represented. Not so at La Panzeria, a daytime spot in a basement locale on St-Denis. Here, diners will find regional specialties like orecchiette (the signature ear-shaped pasta of Apulia), focaccia Barese (dimpled bread with cherry tomatoes), panzerotti (glorious pockets of melted cheese and tomato), and the panino Polignano (a sandwich filled with fried octopus and burrata).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by La Panzeria Montreal (@lapanzeriamtl)

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Behind this six-year-old Rachel Street spot is a mother-daughter duo expertly wielding Quebec ingredients into pan-African flavours. Think tender, slow-cooked meats (oxtail, goat, etc.), nut-encrusted fish, and some seriously stunning cocktails. The restaurant’s wine list is also 100 percent South African.

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This cozy BYOB has been filling the need for quality Korean food in the neighbourhood since its opening in 2018. Luna offers traditional dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, and japchae on handmade Kwangjuyo pottery . Note: On Fridays and Saturdays, its tasting menu format is mandatory.

In 2011, Texas-born Nick Hodge set out to carve out space for a tiny Tex-Mex restaurant in the Plateau, and the result was immediately satisfying. Fans of American fare would do well to try Ice House’s bucket of fried chicken ( some of Montreal’s best ), Dr. Pepper pork ribs, and oyster or shrimp po’ boy. Whatever you pick, be sure to accompany it with a Bourbon lemonade.

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Ma Poule Mouillée

For easy picnic provisions to carry over to nearby Parc Lafontaine, stop off at Portuguese rotisserie Ma Poule Mouillée. Its sandwich, which stuffs piri piri-slathered chicken into a powdery bun, and poutine, piled high with sliced bird, chorizo, and São Jorge cheese, are both excellent bets, with the latter offering sturdy competition to La Banquise across the street. Seating is available on-site, though expect ongoing bustle from the never-ending stream of customers passing through.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ma Poule Mouillée (@mapoulemouillee)

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Khyber Pass

If you’re looking for anything less than a feast, steer clear of this Duluth BYOB, which serves up hefty, flavourful platters of Afghan food. Despite an issue a few years back that resulted in the restaurant taking down its famous wooden facade, Khyber Pass remains as strong as ever — and its lamb dishes are just as good.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Khyber Pass (@restaurantkhyberpass)

Where to Eat on Christmas Day in Montreal

Au Pied de Cochon

The Plateau has seen many newcomers in the last couple of decades, but no one could forget when chef Martin Picard first shone a light on Québécois cuisine in 2001. His Duluth Avenue establishment takes hearty dishes like poutine and pouding chômeur and inserts them into the fine dining arena. In the late winter to early spring, be sure to visit Au Pied de Cochon’s seasonal sugar shack in St-Benoît de Mirabel, and in the summer, picnics in the adjacent orchard promise to be fun and filling.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by AuPieddeCochonMTL (@restaurantaupieddecochon)

25 of Montreal’s Most Iconic Dishes

For a classic Parisian-style bistro, look no further than this Montreal institution. Operating since 1980, L’Express is one of the few restaurants deemed crème de la crème by local critics and beloved by locals and tourists alike. Whatever chef Jean-François Vachon is doing (hint: French classics), he’s doing it right.

Arepera stands out on Prince Arthur Street with a colourful dining room and some very satisfying Venezuelan fare. As its name suggests, arepas — corn cakes stuffed with shredded meats, grated cheese, and veggies — are the specialty. And thanks to the use of corn flour, the spot is a particular favourite among gluten-free diners.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arepera du Plateau (@areperaduplateau)

16 Montreal Restaurants for Delicious, Affordable Eats

Chef Christian Manuel Ventura Alatorre opened Sushi Momo in 2014, serving creative vegan rolls sure to please even the most ardent sushi lovers. Following its runaway success, Alatorre launched Casa Kaizen , a meat-free Mexican-meets-Japanese fusion spot, and vegan torta restaurant Nopalito — both also in the Plateau.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Momo (@sushimomomtl)

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3 perfect days in Montreal

There will be certain times in Montreal when you’ll swear you’re in Paris: when you’re munching on a baguette at a bistro along the Boulevard Saint-Laurent, for example, or when you’re wandering down a cobblestone lane past a centuries-old chapel in Old Montreal. But as European as this city can feel, it also has a distinctly Canadian flair. Sure, you can get steak frites just about anywhere, but you can also find food trucks selling dishes like poutine—a local specialty consisting of French fries smothered in cheese and gravy. (Yes, both at the same time. Trust me, it’s delicious.)

If you lace up your walking shoes, three days is just enough time to see Montreal’s major sights. We’ve organized the below itinerary by location, so you’re not zigzagging back and forth across the city. And we’ve read through tons of Tripadvisor reviews to find out what travelers love most, ensuring each stop is worth your time. If you’re blessed with more than 72 hours here, explore farther-out neighborhoods like Rosemont or make a quick side trip to Quebec City.

MORNING: Hit the cobblestone streets

Most first-timers begin their explorations in Old Montreal , the warren of cobblestone streets running roughly parallel to the mighty St. Lawrence River. Rue St-Paul , one of the neighborhood’s prettiest thoroughfares, is a great starting point. To the north is the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel , known as the Sailor’s Church because of its proximity to the port. Built in 1771, it features ship-shaped chandeliers, complete with billowing sails, hanging over the pews. Climb the tower to get your bearings for the rest of the day.

Travelers say: “[Old Montreal] is the best part of Montreal, especially if you are in search of Parisian vibes. Loved all the sidewalk cafés, vendors, artists, and musicians. Great during the day, but comes alive in the evening (at least on the weekend).” —@ eskdunning

A short stroll south is one of Old Montreal’s architectural gems: the Bonsecours Market . Topped by a silvery dome, it’s worth a peek inside (and a quick stop for a cup of coffee and a pastry). If you want more of a meal, hold out for a few more minutes until you reach the Place Jacques-Cartier , a square lined with restaurants that spill out onto the sidewalks.

Continue down Rue St-Paul, then head west on Rue Notre Dame to reach the stunning Notre Dame Basilica . The combination of beautifully finished woodwork and the brilliant shades of blue on the floor, ceiling, and nave will make it a memorable part of your trip.

OLD MONTREAL TOUR OPTIONS

• Navigating Old Montreal’s labyrinth of cobblestone streets can be stressful, so leave the directions to someone else on this two-hour small-group walking tour . You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the neighborhood’s top landmarks, all without opening Google Maps.
• Old Montreal has its share of scary stories. Hear the best ones on this 90-minute ghost walking tour , which takes place after dark and includes tales of ghosts, crime, and witchcraft, told by a local guide.
• On this one-hour tour of Old Montreal in a vintage convertible Cadillac , you won’t just see the sights, you’ll be one of them. It might be a bumpy ride, but you’ll get to enjoy places like Notre-Dame Basilica and Bonsecours Market from the comfort of a private, very stylish car.

AFTERNOON: History through an Instagram lens

If you’re interested in Montreal’s history—and we guarantee you will be after wandering the atmospheric streets—head to the Pointe-a-Calliere , a complex built on the site of the city’s first European settlement. This isn’t some dusty old museum, though. Your visit starts with an Instagram-worthy multimedia show, then offers the chance to walk through the city’s sewers, past archaeological excavations and ancient gravestones.

When it’s time for lunch, you could eat at the museum’s glass-walled cafe, but some of the city’s best restaurants are just a short walk away. One of my favorites is Olive & Gourmando , which is half gourmet market, half busting eatery. You can’t go wrong with the homemade ricotta, served sweet at breakfast and savory at lunch.

EVENING: A stroll around the Old Port

As the sun sets, the light begins to twinkle along the walkways of the Old Port of Montreal . Far from the workaday port it once was, this waterfront area is now a scenic park beloved by locals and tourists alike. There’s plenty here to keep the whole family occupied for hours, including La Grande Roue de Montréal —a 200-foot-tall observation wheel with an unbeatable view of the river below.

For dinner, you can’t do better than Gaspar Brasserie Française , a stone-walled restaurant with dramatic arches and beamed ceilings. French brasseries are common in Montreal, but dishes like mussels simmered with white wine don’t taste as good anywhere else. In warm weather, the terrace is the place to be. For something a little less formal, there’s the laid-back Italian spot Caffe Un Po di Piu .

Worthy detours along the way

MORNING: Bagel deep, mountain high

Fortify yourself for a trek through Mount Royal Park with a Montreal-style bagel. Locals claim they’re the best in the world—better even than New York bagels—with a denser crumb and sweeter taste. Decide for yourself at Fairmount Bagel or St-Viateur Bagel Shop , two spots with a friendly rivalry in the hip Mile End neighborhood.

How you get to your next destination depends on how much stamina you have. Many people choose to hike to the viewing area at the top of Mount Royal Park (the Olmsted Trail will get you there in about 30 minutes), but you can also take a city bus or even hail a taxi. Whichever you pick, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city skyline. While you’re up there, be sure to also check out Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount-Royal , one of the largest domed structures in the world.

AFTERNOON: Eye-catching murals and smoked meat sandwiches

You’ve probably worked up quite an appetite by this point, so walk a few blocks north to Plateau Mont-Royal , a hip neighborhood with the restaurants to match. There are tons of choices along the main thoroughfares like Saint-Laurent Boulevard .

Travelers say: “[The Plateau] is where the real Montrealers go to chill out at night and on the weekends. Tourists often make the mistake of concentrating their visits on Old Montreal and miss the real Montreal experience by ignoring this part of the city.” —@ TorontoFR

Don’t be put off by the line outside Schwartz’s , one of the last old-timey delis in Montreal. It moves quickly and, before you’ve even had time to peruse the menu, the staff will be ushering you to your table. The smoked meat (people compare it to pastrami) is the main reason to come here—it’s marinated in herbs and spices for 10 days, smoked overnight, and sliced to order. Piled into a sandwich with pickles and homemade slaw, it’s absolutely heavenly.

Plateau Mont-Royal is made for walking, especially because artists have covered so many of the buildings here with eye-catching murals, so go for a stroll after lunch. One of my top spots for a breather is the charming Saint Louis Square , a three-block-long park surrounded by stone houses painted in almost every shade of the rainbow.

PLATEAU MONT-ROYAL TOUR OPTIONS

• Plateau Mont-Royal is a favorite canvas for artists, who have decorated dozens of buildings on and around Saint-Laurent Boulevard with colorful murals. This two-hour street art tour will take you to the finest works.
• The Plateau and neighboring Mile End make up a massive area, so one of the best ways to see this corner of the city is by bicycle. Opt for this three-hour bike tour , which follows quiet streets to spots like Jean Talon Market and teaches all about Montreal’s immigrant communities, street art, and local culture.
• Surprised to find out there’s excellent Salvadorian food in Montreal? Or that the city has a vibrant Little Italy neighborhood? You’ll learn all this and more on this three-hour food tour that delves into the city’s rich culinary heritage.

EVENING: More Paris than Paris

When people say Montreal feels a bit like Paris, they’re probably talking about restaurants like L’Express . On a street corner in the Plateau, the bistro feels straight out of the French capital, with marble-topped tables, polished wood paneling, checkerboard tile floors, and dishes like duck confit. For something unexpected, I also recommend the Afghani food at the small but impressive Fenetre Sur Kaboul .

If you need to walk off your dinner, you’re just a short stroll from one of the city’s prettiest parks: Parc La Fontaine .

MORNING: Head to the islands

Parc Jean-Drapeau , spread across two islands in the Saint Lawrence River—Île Sainte-Hélèn and Île Notre-Dame—is one of Montreal’s most popular spots for outdoor recreation. Though people come here year round, it’s most appealing in the warmer months, when you can hit the hiking trails or lounge on the man-made beach. In winter, you can go ice skating on the same rink used for the 1976 Olympic Games.

If you have kids in tow, take them just north of the park on Île Sainte-Hélèn to ride the roller coasters at La Ronde amusement park. On Île Notre-Dame, you can ride bikes or go rollerblading along the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve , a nearly three-mile-long track best known for hosting the Canadian Grand Prix.

AFTERNOON: Explore the city beneath your feet

In the afternoon, head back to the mainland and go for a stroll down Rue Ste-Catherine , one of the city’s major arteries. The eastern reaches pass through Montreal’s Village, the center of the city’s LGBTQ community.

There are many places to grab a bite here, most of them on the quirky side. One of the best is Tendresse , a bistro specializing in vegetarian and vegan dishes. The restaurant is decorated to look like a trendy version of an old-fashioned diner—and the food is equally as creative.

Rue Ste-Catherine continues past Saint-Laurent Boulevard into Downtown Montreal, an area marked by massive skyscrapers. This neighborhood is so much more than meets the eye, though, especially when it comes to what lies below street level. This is where you’ll find the Underground City —20 miles of tunnels connecting all the buildings in the area. Check it out to see how locals avoid Montreal’s brutal winter weather.

EVENING: End on a spectacular note

Back above ground, backtrack a bit to the Quartier de Spectacles . This outdoor entertainment district, home to the world-famous Montreal Jazz Festival, is basically one big block party. Even if you’re just breezing through, you’ll probably encounter dancing in the streets.

Travelers say: “The place to be during summer in Montreal! There are plenty of activities [in the Quartier des Spectacles] to watch or to participate in. Or just enjoy a stroll on St-Catherine Street. It is closed off to cars, so the only traffic you have is foot traffic.” —@ eRAYcer14

Grab dinner at one of my personal favorite spots, Bouillon Bilk . Done up in mostly black and white, the dining room is the perfect backdrop for a constantly changing menu of creative French fare. The tasting menu is the way to go, letting you sample a little bit of everything.

DOWNTOUR AREA TOUR OPTIONS

• Many first-timers to Montreal come and go without realizing that there’s another city beneath their feet. Book this two-hour Downtown and Underground City private walking tour and you’ll get to explore this other world with an expert guide.
• Get an introduction to Montreal’s vibrant cycling culture on this three-hour bike tour , which explores local history and some of the city’s most important sites in Mont-Royal Park, Old Montreal, and along the Saint Lawrence River.

Know Before You Go

If you have outdoor activities or music festivals in mind, you can brave the crowds that descend on Montreal between June and August. The weather is still pleasant from March to May and September to November, so shoulder season is a better option if you prefer not to wait in line at the most popular sights or pay extortionate rates at the hotel.

Most museums and galleries are closed on Mondays, so keep that in mind if you're headed to Montreal for museum-hopping.

Many restaurants, especially those on the higher end of the scale, are closed on Sunday or Monday (and sometimes both). Shops are generally open a little later on Thursday and Friday and close a little earlier on Sunday.

Old Montreal: This part of the city is at its most charming after the sun goes down, so why wouldn't you want to stay here and soak up all that atmosphere? Old Montreal is by far the most popular option for travelers. Auberge du Vieux-Port , the only hotel directly on the water, is a top choice with Tripadvisor readers for its antique wood floors, exposed brick walls, and soaring ceilings. With just 10 rooms, the boutique hotel Maison Saint-Vincent is also a favorite.

Downtown Montreal: Set among the chain hotels in Downtown Montreal, Hotel Bonaventure Montreal gets thumbs up from readers for its gorgeous heated swimming pool (open even in winter) and rooftop terrace jutting out into the greenery. Built in the late 19th century to house a jewelry store, the dazzling Hotel Birks Montreal is another gem.

Most of Downtown Montreal was designed to accommodate pedestrians. In fact, the entire Underground City was built to make it easier for people to get around the city during the snowy winter months.

Public transportation: The Montréal Metro is the quickest way to get from one neighborhood to another. By far the busiest subway system in Canada, it has four lines connecting 68 different stations. If you'll be using the system a lot, the unlimited weekend pass is a good idea. Buses are also an option, although they can be confusing for newcomers. You can also take the more visitor-oriented hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses .

By bike: Montreal is adding more and more bike lanes each year, making it easy to see the city on two wheels. A bike share program called BIXI — a made-up word combining "bike" and "taxi" — lets you pick up and drop off bicycles from more than 850 docking stations around the city.

By taxi: You can call a taxi, hail one on the street, or pick one up at a taxi stand. Uber and Lyft are also options in Montreal.

Airport transfers: A public shuttle bus runs between downtown and the Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. Airport taxis are another option, and they take you to downtown locations for a set fee. You can also arrange for a pickup from Uber and Lyft.

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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!

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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 ›

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18 new montreal restaurants that opened in 2023, 9 montreal restaurants that should be on every visitor's list in 2024, 15 montreal restaurants made this year's list of top 100 places to eat in canada, the 21 best old montreal restaurants for brunch, fine dining & everything in between, these 30 montreal restaurants are winning awards (and setting trends) in 2024, 11 montreal restaurants every local needs to visit this spring, cheap eats in montreal: 20 of the best restaurants where you can eat for $10 or less, 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, cheap eats in montreal: 13 of the best foods you can find for $5 or less, 10 of the oldest montreal restaurants to get a classic meal.

The Best Things To Do and See in Montreal, Canada

A European-like city perched on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, Montreal provides cultural riches and outdoor experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Montreal is just as well known for its sprawling green spaces – attributable to famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted – as it is for its boundary-pushing cuisine, art and culture.

Here are Culture Trip’s favorite things to do in this international Canadian hotspot.

Visit the Plateau neighborhood

The Plateau neighborhood , with its brightly painted houses, began as a bourgeois place to live. These days, it has more of an artistic vibe. The historic homes throughout Plateau lend themselves to the area’s creative feel. Better yet, it’s an ideal walking neighborhood, full of cafés, restaurants and bookshops. And while the nearby Mile End neighborhood has long since assumed the title of the coolest vibe in Montreal, the Plateau is full of green spaces, beautiful homes and a really pleasant atmosphere. Plus, it’s where iconic Canadian band Arcade Fire first made their start.

Tour the city by bike

As locals will confirm, Montreal is very much a bike-friendly city. Cars are accommodating, bike lanes are plentiful and the terrain is relatively flat. But if you’re not comfortable venturing out on your own by bike, you can take one of Spade & Palacio ’s ‘non-touristy’ bike tours throughout the city. Curated tours involve small groups with a guide, and for under $100 (US$73), you get a bike, helmet, four-hour tour and lunch. Tours are geared toward specific interests, like culinary tours or street-art viewing, and larger groups can arrange for private experiences, too.

Eat your way through the markets

It’s difficult to describe the vibrant, bountiful market culture of Montreal to an outsider. So the best way to experience them is to eat your way through as many as possible. While Jean-Talon Market has captured the hearts of Montrealers and visitors alike for many years (and is still very much worth the visit), this iconic market now has some stiff competition. Atwater Market , much of which is outdoors, is an ode to Art Deco. It’s also next to the Lachine Canal bike path, making it a great stop on a longer adventure. Maisonneuve Market, meanwhile, opened in 1910 and is a must-visit for the culinary-minded. Maisonneuve may be smaller in stature, but it is frequented by locals who consider it to have some of the best eats in the city.

Take in some street art

In Montreal, murals are the name of the art game. Local Montreal graffiti artists like Roadsworth, Omen, Chris Dyer, the HVW8 and Bonar have contributed to a lively art scene and have their artwork displayed on the sides of buildings throughout the city. If you see one piece during your time in Montreal, it should be the portrait of the city’s beloved native son Leonard Cohen , the singer-songwriter perhaps best known for penning the song ‘Hallelujah’. The massive tribute was commissioned by the city from the artist MU. Several companies throughout the city, like Spade & Palacio, organize street-mural tours for interested visitors. Additionally, Montreal hosts two annual graffiti festivals, both of which take place during the summer months.

See it all from the water

If you really want to see the city properly, do it from the St. Lawrence. Le Bateau-Mouche at the Old Port of Montreal offers a variety of guided boat trips, including dinner cruises, sunset cruises and short daytime rides. It’s the best way to catch a glimpse of the Old Port and its stunning limestone façades. Rates begin around $30 (US$22) per person.

Make it a museum day

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a world-renowned museum with rotating exhibits that offer a look at the history of art. The museum’s scope is broad, representing work from multiple time periods and countries. One recent exhibit traced the history of mummification in ancient Egypt and utilized computer-generated images to project the insides of a handful of actual mummies, so visitors can see what the bodies actually look like under all those wraps. Admission costs between $16 (US$11.65) and $24 (US$17.50), not including special exhibits, which sometimes charge an additional fee.

See the sunset on top of the world

At the top of Place Ville Marie , an office and shopping complex, Les Enfants Terribles is a great place to head to for drinks or dinner. Plan your visit around sunset, as you’re practically guaranteed an unobstructed view of the sun sinking down under the horizon. The dining room has wrap-around windows, offering a view from every angle, while the outdoor observatory is an equally excellent place to enjoy a sundowner.

Enjoy the green spaces

For a big city, Montreal has a surprising number of green spaces , which were built into the city’s planning by Olmstead and are, to this day, well worth a visit. And while Mont Royal is perhaps the city’s most famous park, Parc Angrignon , in the city’s southern end, has some of the finest English gardens outside of England. In winter, visitors can cross-country ski, sled and more in this wide-open space.

Take a spa-cation

It’s no real secret that Montreal takes spas and relaxation very seriously. The city has a reputation for some of the finest, most relaxing spas in the world. If you’re planning to visit only one, though, make it Bota Bota , a year-round spa located on a boat anchored in the St. Lawrence. Once inside, you will forget everything about city life, apart from the perfect blue vista afforded from the boat’s many windows.

Check out the cathedral

At the Cathedrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde , a small basilica in the heart of the city that was completed in the late 1800s, visitors can view the architecturally inspiring ciborium, an altar fashioned of ornate, twisting columns. The cathedral’s domed ceiling is also a true thing of beauty. This is a small and manageable cathedral, perfect for those who want a quick look without delving too far into the depths of church history.

See the St. Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal church

At the peak of Mont Royal , the mountain after which this great city is named, is the awe-inspiring church of St. Joseph’s Oratory . It is set high above the road with 100 stone steps leading up to the main hall; devoted pilgrims pray on each one. Words can barely describe the beauty of the church, with high-reaching stone walls and golden light. There is even a stack of walking sticks, said to have been left behind by those who’ve been healed by Saint Joseph. The views of Montreal from here are breathtaking, making it an easy place to spend hours upon hours.

Visit the Holocaust Memorial Centre

Montreal has a strong Jewish community, with many Jewish people having fled to Canada and America from Europe during the early 20th century. This beautiful and moving museum was founded by Holocaust survivors as well as by committed members of the Jewish community in Montreal in 1979. Through respectful and informative exhibitions and numerous real-life testimonies, visitors learn in detail how the lives of Jewish people and their place in society changed over time in Canada. The staff are kind and very willing to share their own stories and personal connections to the museum.

Marvel at the Montreal Symphony Orchestra

Don’t miss out on the chance to listen to beautiful and seamless music played by one of Canada’s favorite ensembles in a stunning music hall, built especially for the orchestra. The acoustics in the new building make this a magical experience, especially when the orchestra plays to more unusual themes, such as the music from Star Wars . The passion within these walls makes classical music accessible to all.

Stroll through the Montreal Botanical Garden

One of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in the world and a quiet haven right in the middle of the hectic city, the Montreal Botanical Garden is a magical getaway. Designed by the National Historic Site of Canada in 2008, the enticing green space stretches out for what looks like miles on end. Go ahead and lose yourself in the maze of beautiful plants, themed gardens and tropical greenhouses. Gaze in wonder at the hedges trimmed to resemble all members of the animal kingdom, and the diversity and the bursts of color. This is a truly spectacular way to spend a glorious summer day in Montreal.

See Notre-Dame Basilica

This stunning cathedral in Montreal yields unparalleled beauty. The altar is magnificent and is a real focal point of the entire church. The interior is unusually atmospheric, with dark blue ceilings and walls adorned with golden stars and wonderful religious artwork lining the walls. There are frequent free tours for those who wish to learn about the history of the church and its place in Quebec and hear some fascinating anecdotes. Visit this cathedral and be prepared to be blown away.

Visit the Montreal Biodome

All kinds of birds, mammals, fish and insects, as well as huge diversity of plant life, can be found under one roof at Montreal Biodome . In fact, there are over 4,500 animals waiting to be discovered. Five different ecosystems are carefully maintained here, four from the Americas and, more compelling yet, one from the Antarctic . Visitors can benefit from an excellent tour, delivered by knowledgeable guides, and can expect to learn vast amounts about the different species of animals in the dome.

Take a trip to the Insectarium of Montreal

Take some time to watch these delicate and fascinating creatures slowly sense their surroundings and weave their way through their little worlds. The Insectarium of Montreal is considered a leading museum focused on insects, a reputation it definitely deserves. This place is a celebration not only of biodiversity but of the resourcefulness and beauty of some of the tiniest creatures on Earth. There are impressive displays of butterflies from all over the world as well as living specimens, and you can watch the ants build entire civilizations and learn about the life cycles of centipedes and other insects.

This is a version of an original article by Rachel Dickenson.

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A beginner’s guide to visiting Montreal

It had been more than a decade since I'd last crossed the border into Canada on a high school trip to Quebec. So in 2019, when I discovered I'd be returning to Montreal for a work trip without much notice and an entire weekend to fill, I started scouring the internet and messaging every friend and colleague who had ever been to this cosmopolitan city up north.

On Aug. 9, Canada reopened to vaccinated Americans after a 17-month border closure. Americans who are fully vaccinated can finally enter Canada for tourism or other nonessential purposes by air and land so long as they pack a negative PCR test.

So, unsurprisingly, many travelers are beginning to plan long-overdue trips across the northern border to popular destinations including Montreal.

Travelers visiting Montreal for the first time will find that it's an accessible taste of Europe: Everyone speaks English, it's incredibly walkable and the food is as close as you'll get to Paris without flying across the Atlantic. Here's where to get your morning coffee, where to bed down and everything else you need to know for a first trip to the City of a Hundred Steeples.

Want more tips and tricks for planning a trip to Montreal? Visit our new destination hub here , and check back throughout the week for travel guides, restaurant recommendations and more!

Where to eat and drink in Montreal

Almost every time my stomach started grumbling, I checked out restaurants in the Plateau and Mile End neighborhoods. When in doubt, you can walk or Uber to these areas and wander until you see a menu that fits your needs.

Where to get the best bagels

There's one thing everyone will tell you about eating in Montreal: Get the bagels. Montreal's distinctly sweeter take on the Jewish classic is hand-rolled, boiled in honey-infused water and finished in a wood-burning oven.

Find them at Fairmount Bagel, the 24-hour St-Viateur Bagel Shop or, if you want something a bit less traditional, one of four Hinnawi Bros locations. At Hinnawi Bros you can get breakfast sandwiches crafted with Montreal bagels (I ordered the Végé with avocado, mozzarella, bell pepper, grilled onions, cucumber and other toppings).

Where to eat poutine

The other thing you'll probably feel compelled to order during your first trip to Montreal is poutine. The simple Québécois dish consists of French fries smothered in squeaky cheese curds and rich brown gravy. You can find it pretty much anywhere in the city (including the hot dog stand Chez Ma Tante and the retro diner Greenspot), but the novelty of snacking on poutine at some odd hour of the morning means a trip to La Banquise, which is open 24/7 and has dozens of varieties on the menu.

The best restaurants in Montreal

For lunch or brunch, Olive et Gourmando is one of the most popular spots in the city. You'll find it on an attractive street in Old Montreal.

The pressed sandwiches are a highlight, so consider the "Poached Egg on Your Face" panini with slow-roasted tomatoes and raw milk cheese or the smoked brisket and cilantro-pesto mayo "Mr. Miami," served with a side of jalapeño pineapple chutney you'll want to put on everything.

I didn't order a salad, but regretted that when I saw massive bowls of greens, herbs, pumpkin seeds and vegetables passing through the cozy dining room.

For a traditional Parisian bistro experience without flying to France, there's L'Express on Rue Saint-Denis. The kitchen stays open late and turns out chicken liver pâté, quiches, duck confit — you get the idea.

Vegetarians may want to skip Au Pied de Cochon (read: pig's foot), a Plateau institution that has an entire section of the menu dedicated to foie gras. But if this temple to meat is at the top of your dining list, make a reservation and order the duck in a can: garlic, thyme, balsamic, duck breast and, of course, more foie gras.

A playful mix of traditional Québécois and British fare, dinners at Bar George include quail stuffed with liver and pork mousse and beef Wellington with mushrooms and prosciutto. You also can't go wrong with the bacon jam-topped hamburger.

Elena, in the St. Henri neighborhood, is a great spot for thin, crusty pizza and wine.

Related: A food guide to eating Vegan and gluten-free in London

You'll probably want to try at least one of chef Marc Cohen's three restaurants (owned in partnership with Sefi Amir, Ethan Wills and Annika Krausz). You can get a sandwich at Boucherie Lawrence (or stock up on charcuterie), sit down for a casual meal at Larrys or splurge on dinner at Lawrence, which is set to reopen in September.

La Diperie, a local ice cream institution that's best known for its dipped cones, has expanded far beyond its original location in the Plateau. But this cozy shop remains a popular place to stop on a warm night for simple soft serve dipped in unexpected flavors and fun toppings. You can eat your dessert outside in front of the painted turquoise wall and, of course, take one for the 'gram.

Where to drink

Great spots for a cocktail include Terrasse Nelligan (a seasonal rooftop crowning Hotel Nelligan) and the 25-seat Cloakroom Bar, hidden inside a former 19th-century mansion.

Related: The best starter credit cards

What to see and do in Montreal

It's not called the City of a Hundred Steeples for nothing. Everywhere you look in Montreal, there's an elegant church tower, spire or dome rising above the relatively low city skyline.

One of the most famous is the Notre-Dame Basilica, a 17th-century structure that will transport you straight to Paris with its twin Gothic Revival towers and stunning stained glass. It's not to be confused with the equally popular Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, one of the oldest in the city, dating back to 1771. Located in Old Montreal, it overlooks the harbor.

Also a replica of a famous European landmark, the sprawling Mary Queen of the World Cathedral is evocative of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. The downtown cathedral is crowned with a green copper dome and guarded by 13 patron saints from around Montreal.

On the summit of Mount Royal is Saint Joseph's Oratory. It's the largest church in Canada, but it's not the only reason travelers flock to Mount Royal. More hill than mountain, this vast 495-acre green space was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (the same visionary landscape architect responsible for Central Park in New York City). Here, you can spend a warm summer afternoon walking, cycling, or picnicking; come winter, there's ice skating, snowshoeing and sledding.

For a celebrated spa experience in Montreal, Bota Bota is on a ship located in the Old Port. Spread across five decks are saunas, baths, pools and treatment rooms.

And if you do find yourself in Montreal during the winter, make sure to visit during the Lumière Festival. Typically from late February through early March, the frozen city is transformed by colorful light installations, live art and music performances, culinary exhibits and more.

The best museums in Montreal

Art lovers will love the Contemporary Art Museum of Montreal (MAC; temporarily closed) and the city's Museum of Fine Arts. Both are located in the Ville-Marie borough.

For history buffs, there's the Pointe-à-Callière (the Museum of Archaeology and History) with artifacts dating back to the prehistoric aboriginal habitation of Montreal.

Where to stay in Montreal

Fairmont queen elizabeth.

Accor's historic Montreal hotel has been a fixture downtown since it debuted in 1958. It has hosted British royals and John Lennon and Yoko Ono's Bed-in for Peace. In 2017, the property — directly connected to Montreal's main Gare Central train station — got a top-to-toe refresh by Sid Lee. Request a room with a view of the Mary Queen of the World Cathedral across the street from the Fairmont, and, if you have status with Accor, use your complimentary welcome drink to try one of the signature cocktails at Bar Nacarat, the upscale lobby bar that spills out onto a terrace during the summer.

Every bit a W, down to the loud house music emanating from the bar and the generous use of gold pleather furniture, this hotel is conveniently located in downtown Montreal. Use your Marriott points (from 40,000 per night on off-peak dates) to stay at this Category 6 property.

Ritz-Carlton Montreal

Splurge at this Category 7 grand dame — one of the oldest Ritz-Carlton properties on earth. Since it opened in 1912, the elegant property has been a fixture of the city's culinary and social scenes. If you don't want to drop hundreds of Canadian dollars on a room (expect to spend roughly $500 per night even during the shoulder season) it's a great place to redeem a free-night certificate (rooms start at 50,000 on off-peak dates). Or, make a reservation at Maison Boulud or pop by for the brand's famous afternoon tea.

Four Seasons Montreal

Putting an end to a dry spell for luxury hotel development in Montreal, the Four Seasons opened in the city's Golden Square Mile in May of 2019. It's home to the first-ever Canadian restaurant by star chef Marcus Samuelsson. With a stunning and subtle gray-and-dusty-pink color scheme elevated by accents of white marble, polished gold and ample velvet, this hotel redefines Canadian luxury — but it doesn't come cheap. If you're going to bed down here, be sure to book through the American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) program if you have The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express . That way, you'll earn 5x points on prepaid bookings with American Express Travel and receive exclusive perks, like a complimentary upgrade upon arrival when available and a property credit.

What to skip

For travelers, time is precious, so don't waste it shivering in the biting cold or overpaying for mediocre attractions.

"Unless you have kids and it's raining or frigid, skip the Biodôme," travel writer and author Grace Per Lee told TPG. "It's just an indoor zoo."

A former Montreal resident told TPG that Montreal in winter is overrated. Another tip: "Avoid downtown, because you really want to venture into the interesting neighborhoods. [Old] Montreal can be tacky, but it's charming."

Oh, and you should certainly try the poutine — but maybe not at every meal.

The details

Getting to montreal.

With frequent nonstop flights of less than an hour and a half and daily trains from major stations on the East Coast of the U.S., Montreal is an easy weekend getaway. (Though I took the 13-hour train one-way from New York City to Montreal and wholeheartedly recommend that you fly.)

If airfare into Montreal is higher than you wish it were, miles and points represent a great opportunity to keep cash in your wallet. We recently found deals from dozens of U.S. cities to Canada from 5,500 SkyMiles one-way.

From points farther away in the U.S., Canada typically prices in a similar way to domestic destinations.

Plus, Chase recently added Air Canada Aeroplan as its newest transfer partner . Chase points now transfer to the Canadian airline at a 1 to 1 transfer ratio. Remember, Air Canada completely revamped Aeroplan in 2020 , and the new program is more powerful than ever with no fuel surcharges, cheap stopovers and a standard award chart.

You need your passport, but fortunately, you won't need to brush up on your high school French. Although it's the second-largest city in the world where a majority of the population speaks French (after Paris, of course), you can pretty much count on everyone speaking English, too.

Right now, of course, travelers will need other documents to travel to Canada.

• You'll need to prove you're fully vaccinated and received your last dose at least 14 days prior to entry.
• You'll need to bring a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of your flight's scheduled departure to Canada.
• Submit entry documentation through the Canadian government's new ArriveCAN app within 72 hours of arrival in Canada.

Related: How to get to Montreal with points and miles

Canadian currency and tipping

At this time, $1 U.S. has gotten you about 1.25 Canadian dollars (CA$). This means that something priced at $100 in CA$ would cost you about $80 U.S., making Montreal an affordable destination for U.S.-based travelers. Just be sure you're paying with a card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees .

Tipping is customary in Canada, so expect to leave between 15% and 20% when dining out and drinking, much as you would in the U.S. However, during my visit, I found that a gratuity was occasionally included, so double-check your bill.

Fortunately, tipping in Montreal is a piece of cake. Rather than handing off your card to the waiter and doing hasty math in your head, it's customary for waiters and other servers to bring over a handheld terminal, which will likely prompt you to tip either by a percent or a fixed amount. Usually, you'll be able to choose if you want the payment to process in U.S. or Canadian dollars (always pick the local currency).

Getting around

If you're planning to ride the Société de Transport de Montréal — the city's public transport network which includes buses and an underground metro — you no longer need to worry about fare vending machines only accepting chip-and-pin cards. Using your favorite credit card for travel rewards , you can buy a single ticket (CA$ 3.50 or $2.80) or a pass.

Consider buying the three-day pass (now CA$ 20.50 or about $16.70) or the one-week pass (CA$ 28 or $22.40), valid on unlimited rides.

You can take Ubers in Montreal, but I was surprised to find that Lyft is not yet available in this city (though there are reports the ride-hailing service is on its way). There are plenty of cabs in Montreal, but it's said that an Uber can be significantly cheaper.

The best time to visit Montreal

Montreal is a year-round destination, with warm, sunny summers and a ski resort just two hours north of the city for winter.

If you can stand the frigid temperatures, traveling to Montreal in winter can be a great opportunity to take advantage of deeply discounted hotel room rates and flight deals. Another reason to visit Montreal in the winter? The giant EDM dance party known as Igloofest and the aforementioned Lumière Festival.

Of course, if you can't stand the cold (or snow), a summer visit to Montreal probably makes more sense. Montreal's event calendar is typically stacked in the summer, especially during July. Consider pegging your trip to Montreal's Just For Laughs festival.

Shoulder-season travel, when the weather is milder, can also confer great travel deals with fewer crowds.

Bottom line

For travelers who love history, art and food, Montreal is a fantastic destination that works well as a long weekend getaway. And though it has many of the trappings of a European vacation, you'll discover elements that are unmistakably and wonderfully Canadian, not to be confused with (or traded for) anywhere else on Earth.

12 things to know before you go to Montréal

Sep 18, 2023 • 6 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Plan at least three days to visit

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

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

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

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

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

3. Bike or metro around

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

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

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

4. Don’t spend all your time downtown

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

5. Make restaurant reservations and prepare to line up

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

6. Montréal has its own definition of east and west

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

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

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

8. You need to tip

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

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

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

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

10. Have a boozy park picnic

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

11. Cheer for the Habs

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

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

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

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

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The off-the-beaten-path faces and places of the total eclipse in Montreal

A jog in the park seconds before totality; road signalers rejoice in a shared moment, and a rooftop party.

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While Montreal's downtown may have been in the path of totality of Monday's eclipse, it certainly wasn't destination No. 1 for many viewers. 

Shortly after noon, streets near the city's bridges began to fill with cars leaving the island for the viewing experience. 

Hundreds of thousands headed off-island — where they could see the eclipse outside of a busy city, free of skyscrapers and noise from construction crews — or to nearby landmarks, such as Sainte-Hélène Island on the St. Lawrence River, where activities had been planned for months.

Enya Astelle and her friend Josiane Neault danced to songs emanating from the car next to theirs on Ste-Catherine Street East, as they sat in bumper-to-bumper traffic. The two were heading back to St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, about 40 kilometres away, after having travelled into town to pay a fine.

"We're going to watch from the hot tub! My mom's freaking out. It's a really big deal for her. It should be fun," said Astelle. 

But a city's a city and the work never stops, so CBC decided to chat with the stragglers, the workers, the urban dwellers — who stayed in town, stepped outside and were delighted by what they saw, or didn't give a hoot at all. 

"For me, it's like you would say in English: 'No big deal!'" said Claudette Desmarais, who was running some errands downtown.

Sequins sparkled on the white ball cap atop her head, but Desmarais said she wasn't a fan of the moon and the stars, or anything that people made too much of a big deal about, really. 

Kamel Bousba and his two children, Yasmine and Massine, stood in line at a bus stop on St-Hubert Street, waiting to catch a ride to the science centre in the Old Port. For them, this was a big deal. 

"It's rare to see the eclipse. My history teacher says it only happens about once every 100 years," said Massine. "We learned that there's only a 0.05 per cent chance of seeing an eclipse in your life," his sister said. 

• Solar eclipse inspires awe in Quebec's Eastern Townships, which had one of best views on Earth
• Breathtaking total solar eclipse wows skywatchers in Quebec

Bousba said he'd been lucky enough to see a total eclipse once before, when he still lived in Algeria in 2004. 

"My kids haven't stopped asking questions about it. At the time, people were scared. But it was amazing. It's really beautiful. It's like the time changes, and becomes darker and darker and then bright as day again," said Bousba.

Up the street, traffic signaller Carole Therrien sat on a little bench outside the construction site she was working for. 

"I don't have any eclipse glasses or anything so I won't be able to see it, but I didn't really try anyway," said Therrien, who would be working throughout the celestial event. 

When CBC visited her back at her post afterward, Therrien was with her colleague, Carole Proulx. The two had viewed it together and had a certain spring in their step. Still without glasses, Therrien had stolen a few glances when the eclipse reached totality, bathing the city in an eerie mid-day darkness. 

"It wasn't bad. Pretty spectacular, actually," Therrien said. Her colleague had a little more to say. 

"Everything went so, so dark all of a sudden. And lights went on in the buildings. People were yelling and screaming. It was crazy. It's really something to see."

And despite the Eastern Townships region south of the city being considered one of the best places to view the total eclipse, there were a few for whom Montreal itself was the journey's destination. 

Randy Enkin, a geologist with   the Geological Survey of Canada and a past president of the Victoria Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society, flew from Victoria, B.C., to experience totality on his wife's parents' rooftop terrace in Montreal's Plateau neighbourhood. 

Enkin had planned to travel here since 2017, when another eclipse reached totality in Oregon but he couldn't make that trip at the time. 

"The romance of it being over my in-laws house just made it, like, why would I go somewhere else?" said Enkin, who is a self-professed moon and astro-lover, and volleyed trivia questions from the group of family and friends gathered on the terrace.

"I call myself a selenophile, but you could also call me a lunatic." 

Enkin runs a Facebook page called Enkin's Daily Moon  where he posts a new art image of the moon, and has been for the past 10 years. 

He points out that the moon is such a powerful symbol that he has found it enough in art not to have to re-post the same image twice.  

"Every culture has the moon as as a symbol, whether it's of the feminine, the passage of time, knowledge. ... There's so many ways that people present it," he said.

Quebec pauses to watch stunning solar eclipse

Two blocks to the east, a crowd of several hundred gathered along the pond at La Fontaine park. People sat on blankets up on a hill and along the edge of the pond. Children, freed from school, ran around and played but a muted excitement took over as the sky grew darker. 

A jogger ran amid the crowd seconds from totality, making the most of her lunch break, she said. 

For several minutes, it was as if someone was slowly dimming the lights in a room, like some kind of a trick that also involved sucking out the warm air. Then dusk fell and people gasped and yelled and cheered and cried. Twice, pairs of Canada geese flew above the pond, honking at the skygazers and the sky.

A group of young guys appeared, screaming something about nightmares and the end of the world — a deliberate disruption — but they were ignored. A woman picked up something they had dropped on the ground and gave it to them. The crowd didn't let them ruin their moment. 

Zahra Malki-Meam, 20, and her partner Malik Samuels, 22, watched from a little blanket, munching on snacks. They had looked forward to this for months. 

"it was really cool to see it with everyone around, like hearing people gasping and stuff," said Malki-Meam.

The couple had at first planned to join the city's main festivities at Jean-Drapeau park but, once they got inside the Metro system and saw how many people had had the same idea, did some quick thinking and opted to head for La Fontaine. 

"I think it was nicer anyway. We didn't know how loud the music would be elsewhere. We thought it would be nice to be just, like, chill in a parc, nature vibes," said Samuels. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Verity Stevenson is a reporter with CBC in Montreal. She has previously worked for the Globe and Mail and the Toronto Star in Toronto, and the Telegraph-Journal in Saint John.

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