Table of contents
- Day 1: what if you opted for cultural and historical immersion?
- Day 2: indulge in nature and art
- Day 3: exploring and relaxing
Looking for a city where European charm meets North American modernity? Look no further: welcome to Montreal! Every street will reveal to your delight a piece of the history of this dynamic, rich and diverse metropolis.
This multi-faceted city will also offer you a range of experiences, from lively neighborhoods to verdant havens of peace. Although I’ve already presented the must-sees of this little corner of paradise in previous articles, particularly in autumn, here’s a detailed three-day program to help you explore Montreal’s hidden treasures.
Day 1: what if you opted for cultural and historical immersion?
1ʳᵉ activity: Old Montreal and the Old Port
Why not start your Montreal stay in the city’s historic heart? Sometimes it’s good to take your time! Stroll the cobblestone streets and discover iconic buildings like Notre-Dame Basilica, Place Jacques-Cartier and City Hall. The Old Port, meanwhile, offers a wide range of activities: riverside strolls, cruises on the St. Lawrence and the Montréal Science Centre, for example.
How to get there
Old Montreal is easily accessible by metro via Champ-de-Mars, Place d’Armes or Square-Victoria-OACI stations. Several bus lines also serve the area.
How long will your visit last?
For a complete exploration of Old Montreal and the Old Port, allow around 3 to 4 hours. This time will give you the chance to visit the main sites, but also to get lost in the many boutiques, cafés and restaurants.
How to book and how much does it cost?
Access to the district is free. However, some attractions, such as Notre-Dame Basilica and river cruises, are not free. I recommend booking your cruise online to avoid the queues.
Where to eat?
For lunch in Old Montreal, you’ll be spoilt for choice between charming and varied restaurants that blend in perfectly with the historic setting. Here are a few suggestions:
Le Café Olive and Gourmando
A popular café, perfect for a light lunch with options like gourmet sandwiches, salads and homemade pastries.
351 Saint-Paul West, Montreal, QC H2Y 2A7
Le Bistro Bonaparte
If you’re looking for a more refined atmosphere with traditional French cuisine, this restaurant offers an elegant setting with delicious dishes like duck confit and seafood.
443 Saint-François-Xavier, Montreal, QC H2Y 2T1
Le Marché de la Villette
Another French option, but this time in a more relaxed atmosphere. This brasserie-style bistro offers dishes such as tartines, charcuterie and stews.
324 Saint-Paul West, Montreal, QC H2Y 2A3
2ᵉ activity: plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End
In the afternoon, I invite you to head for the Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End, which are synonymous with hip, artsy neighborhoods. The Plateau is famous for its colorful houses, wrought-iron staircases and numerous boutiques and restaurants. Mile End, meanwhile, is a paradise for lovers of alternative culture, with its art galleries, hipster cafés and famous bakeries such as Fairmount Bagel and St-Viateur Bagel.
How to get there
The Plateau Mont-Royal is accessible via Mont-Royal or Laurier metro stations. Mile End is a short walk away, or you can reach it by bus lines 55 and 80.
How long will it take?
Allow around 2 to 3 hours for a leisurely stroll through these two neighborhoods. You’ll have plenty of time for strolling, shopping and sampling the local specialties.
How to book and at what price?
As you’ve probably guessed, there’s no charge to visit the neighborhoods. Guided street art tours, to name but a few, usually cost between $20 and $30 per person.
And in the evening?
After a busy day, why not extend your experience of these vibrant neighborhoods with a typically Montreal evening? Here are a few ideas for relaxing and enjoying the unique ambiance of the Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End:
Dine in a local restaurant
If you’d like to discover Montreal’s cuisine, there are several options open to you. For a refined meal, try L’Express (3927 Rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC H2W 2M4), an iconic French bistro offering classic dishes like steak-frites or tartares.
For something more casual, you can opt for La Banquise (994 Rue Rachel Est, Montreal, QC H2J 2J3), a must for authentic poutine in a friendly atmosphere.
Have a drink in a trendy bar
If you’re looking for a place to have a drink, Mile End is full of lively, trendy bars. Head to Bar Henrietta (115 Ave Laurier Ouest, Montreal, QC H2T 2N6) for creative cocktails in a retro atmosphere, or to Dieu du Ciel! (29 Avenue Laurier Ouest, Montreal, QC H2T 2N2), a microbrewery renowned for its craft beers.
Attend a show or concert
Montreal is a dynamic city when it comes to culture and music. You could attend an improv show at Théâtre Sainte-Catherine (264 Sainte-Catherine East, Montreal, QC H2X 1L4) or a concert at the legendary Le Belmont venue (4483 Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Montreal, QC H2W 1Z8), known for its electro nights and live events.
Day 2: indulge in nature and art
1ʳᵉ activity: Mount Royal Park
Looking for a Montreal must-see? Parc du Mont-Royal, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the creator of Central Park, is one! Of course, I can’t recommend climbing all the way to the top. Your effort (or lack of it) will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas and, in winter, activities such as ice skating and cross-country skiing.
How to get here
You can reach the park by bus on routes 11 and 97. Have you rented a car? No problem, as there are several parking lots around the park.
How long will it take?
For a complete visit, including a climb to the summit and a walk along the trails, allow 2 to 3 hours.
How do I book and how much does it cost?
Access to the park is free. Skate or ski hire is, of course, available at an additional cost.
Where to eat?
After exploring Parc du Mont-Royal and enjoying its lush natural surroundings, there are several options for lunch nearby:
Maison Smith
Located directly in the park, Maison Smith is a charming cafeteria ideal for a quick meal or snack after your hike. They offer sandwiches, salads, as well as excellent coffees and pastries. Located 1260 Chemin Remembrance, Montreal, QC H3H 1A2.
Café Santropol
Just a few minutes from the park, this café is renowned for its generous and creative sandwiches. Its cozy atmosphere and pretty terrace make it a pleasant choice for relaxing after a morning in the great outdoors.
3990 Rue Saint-Urbain, Montreal, QC H2W 1T7
Restaurant Universel
For a more classic option, this park-side restaurant offers a variety of dishes from salads to burgers to brunch-style fare, perfect for a gourmet break.
To get there, go to 3630 Avenue du Parc, Montreal, QC H2X 2H1
2ᵉ activity: the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
This museum is a treasure trove for all art lovers. It houses a vast collection of works ranging from Antiquity to contemporary art. It also hosts a number of captivating temporary exhibitions. The museum is divided into several pavilions, each dedicated to a particular period or style. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a true invitation to a cultural voyage!
How to get there
The museum is located on Sherbrooke Street. You can reach it via Peel or Guy-Concordia metro stations. If you’re not comfortable with the latter, you can get there via several bus lines.
How long will it take?
Are you an art lover? If so, it’s best to set aside at least 3 hours for a full tour of the permanent galleries and temporary exhibitions.
How to book and at what price?
Tickets can be purchased both online and on site. Rates are $24 for adults, $16 for seniors and students. Good news: admission is free for children under 20.
What about the evening?
After an enriching day at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, why not continue to enjoy the city’s cultural and gastronomic scene? Here are a few suggestions for your evening:
Dinner in a gourmet restaurant
For a memorable culinary experience, reserve a table at Toqué! (900 Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle, Montreal, QC H2Z 2B2), a Michelin-starred restaurant that showcases Quebec cuisine using local seasonal produce. Elegant surroundings and impeccable service await you.
If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, try Le Club Chasse et Pêche (423 Rue Saint-Claude, Montreal, QC H2Y 3B9), which offers refined cuisine in a warm, rustic setting.
Take in a show
After dinner, why not head to the Théâtre du Nouveau Monde (84 Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Montreal, QC H2Y 1Y8) for an exciting play, or to Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier (175 Rue Ste-Catherine Ouest, Montreal, QC H2X 3Y2) for a classical concert or ballet performance? Consult the program in advance to choose an event that interests you.
Visit an art bar
To round off the evening, immerse yourself in Montreal’s artistic ambience at Bar le Lab (1495 Avenue de Mont-Royal Est, Montreal, QC H2J 1Z3), where experienced mixologists create unique cocktails. Or opt for Le Rouge Bar (1773 Rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC H2X 3K4), a lively bar with a warm ambience and a fine selection of beers and wines.
Day 3: exploring and relaxing
1ʳᵉ activity: Jean-Talon Market
Why not end your last day in Montreal on a high note? The Jean-Talon Market, one of North America’s largest public markets, will leave you with an unforgettable memory! Gourmets will think they’re in heaven. They’ll be tempted by a multitude of fresh produce, cheeses, meats, fish and of course… Quebec specialties. As you can imagine, this market is the ideal place to try poutine and tourtières, for example.
How do I get there?
No need to worry about getting to this temple of gustatory pleasure! Numerous buses serve this area, which is also accessible by metro from Jean-Talon or De Castelnau stations.
How long will it take?
If you don’t want to miss out on any tasty treats, you’ll need to allow a good 2 hours for tasting and buying gourmet souvenirs.
How do I book and how much does it cost?
I won’t be telling you anything new when I say that admission to the market is free. I can assure you, however, that you’ll be pulling out your credit card or Canadian dollars faster than you can chew!
Where to eat?
After exploring the Jean-Talon Market, there are several delicious lunch options nearby:
La Panthère Verte
This vegan restaurant is perfect for a healthy and tasty lunch. They offer a variety of dishes like burritos, salads, and soups, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Address: 1966 Avenue de l’Esplanade, Montreal, QC H2X 3P8
Pizza Toni
For a quick and tasty option, don’t miss this popular pizzeria, known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas. It’s a great way to eat after a morning at the market. Located at 6390 Rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC H2S 2S4
Café In Vivo
A charming café a few steps from the market, ideal for a light meal. The menu offers sandwiches, salads and delicious coffees. The friendly atmosphere makes it the perfect place to relax.
Directions: 6710 Avenue de l’Esplanade, Montreal, QC H2V 4M1
2ᵉ activity: Parc Jean-Drapeau
End your stay with a breath of fresh air at Parc Jean-Drapeau. Located on Sainte-Hélène and Notre-Dame islands, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a multitude of activities here. From lush gardens and beaches to La Ronde, Eastern Canada’s largest amusement park. Don’t miss the Biosphère, a museum dedicated to the environment, or the Casino de Montréal.
How do I get there?
The park is accessible by metro via Jean-Drapeau station, by shuttle bus or by bus.
How long will it take?
Parc Jean-Drapeau is particularly vast, with a host of attractions, each more attractive than the last. You’re bound to fall for more than one of them. So don’t count on escaping for another 3 or 4 hours.
How to book and how much does it cost?
Access to the park is free. La Ronde is not. You’ll need to pay around $50. To avoid wasting time in the long queues, do as I did and check the schedules in advance, booking the activities that interest you before you come.
What about the evening?
After a busy last day at Parc Jean-Drapeau, why not round off your stay in Montreal with a memorable evening out? Here are a few suggestions for making the most of your last night:
Dinner overlooking the river
Head to Restaurant Le 409 (409 Rue Notre-Dame Est, Montreal, QC H2Y 1C9), located on the Old Port, for dinner with a breathtaking view of the St. Lawrence River. Their menu offers modern dishes inspired by Quebecois cuisine, and the atmosphere is perfect for a romantic evening.
If you prefer something more casual, Terrasse Nelligan (106 Rue Nelligan, Montreal, QC H2Y 2Z3) is an ideal option, offering refreshing cocktails and tapas in a lively atmosphere.
Stroll along the river
After dinner, enjoy a stroll along the St. Lawrence River. The Old Port is particularly charming in the evening, with its twinkling lights and relaxing spaces. It’s a great way to digest while admiring the city from another angle.
Visit a cocktail bar
To round off the evening in style, head to Bar Le Lab (1495 Avenue de Mont-Royal Est, Montreal, QC H2J 1Z3) for creative cocktails prepared by talented mixologists. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure.
