We’re often asked which neighbourhood we’d recommend in Montreal, and our answer always depends on what it is our guests are looking for – because that’s one of the best things about Montreal – it really has got something for everyone! Read on to see which neighbourhood suits your idea of the perfect Montreal stay…
You like history, culture and architecture
The Old port and Vieux Montreal are perfect for those who want to be immersed in the history of the city – with cobblestone streets, beautiful old architecture, and even pony and cart rides! Pay a visit to Notre Dame Basilia, a stunning church based on its famous namesake in Paris, or learn more about Montreal’s past at the Pointe-à-Callière museum. There are also a myriad excellent restaurants and souvenier shops in the streets parallel to the water, and in December, a beautiful christmas market in the main square.
You like shopping, concerts, and festivals
Downtown (or Quartier International) is the place to be if you’re looking for some retail therapy – and if it’s chilly, you don’t even have to step outside! St. Catherine street is home to three large malls (Cours Mont-Royal, The Eaton Centre and Les Ailes), which are all linked via the “underground city” as well as two giant department stores (The Bay and Ogilvy) and lots of high street stores in between. It’s here that you’ll find the main outdoor concert and festival square, Quartier des Spectacles, and the indoor complex Place des Arts, home to Montreal’s finest orchestra, opera and ballet performances.
You like eating and drinking
Plateau Mont-Royal is home to Montreal’s best bohemian, eclectic and independent stores, cafes, bars and restaurants, and it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon with an amazing expresso, freshly baked pastries, or a gourmet meal. Walk south alonf Saint Denis or Saint Laurent until you hit Montreal – if you haven’t found something great by then (like Patati Patata for poutine or Omnivore for charcoal-grilled kebabs) then walk east (towards the Olympic Stadium) on Mont Royal for cult favourites like L‘Avenue and St-Viateur Bagel.
You like nature and a peaceful neighborhood
Nothing beats the feeling of space and silence when you need a break from the rat race. The neighborhoods of Griffintown and St. Henri (Atwater) hug the banks of the Lachine Canal, a heritage site that stretches serenely for 14 km all the way out of the city. Perfect for jogging, cycling and rollerblading, you can stop in at the Atwater Market for a bite to eat or the St. Ambroise brewery for a quiet pint. Best of all, the convenience of the city is right behind you – but far enough so that you won’t hear a thing.
