Summary
1. Best Areas to Stay in Montreal: Explore the unique neighborhoods including Old Montreal, Downtown, Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, Mile End, and The Village.
2. Accommodations: Recommendations for hotels and stays based on luxury, mid-range, and budget options.
3. Things to Do: Great activities and attractions in each area to experience Montreal’s rich culture and vibrant lifestyle.
Wondering where the best places to stay in Montreal are? Choosing where to stay in Montreal can be time-consuming because there are so many unique neighborhoods around the city. This guide will help you understand the layout and personality of Montreal.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a repeat visitor, this guide will help you choose where to base yourself depending on what you want to see and experience.
Best Areas to Stay in Montreal
This detailed guide includes information on the 5 most popular areas to stay in Montreal. You will also find suggestions for the best neighborhoods to suit your needs, the best hotels, what to eat, and what not to miss in terms of local experiences.
- Old Montreal– The most historic part of Montreal. This is where most of the sightseeing in the city is located.
- Downtown– Skyscrapers, museums, and the hustle and bustle of being right in the heart of it all.
- Le Plateau-Mont-Royal– Hipster haven, known for quality coffee shops, boutique stores, street art, and an abundance of cyclists. Very Francophone.
- Mile End– Stylish, artsy, multicultural. Home to the best bagels in the city.
- The Village– Colorful neighborhood with vibrant nightlife. One of the largest gay communities in North America.
1. Old Montreal – Historic & Touristy
Also known as Vieux-Montreal in French, Old Montreal conjures up images of narrow streets, cobblestones, and a romantic European atmosphere. If you’re looking to take a step back in time to discover the local haunts and historic spots that made the city what it is today, then the Old City is one of the best places to stay in Montreal.
The oldest buildings in this well-preserved neighborhood date back to the 17th century, but that doesn’t mean that this area is dated or dull. Quite the contrary, actually. There are a ton of things to do in Old Montreal. Old Montreal is the bustling center of the city, not only for tourism but for local experiences as well.
This central location is ideal because it offers an abundance of attractions, from the famous Notre-Dame Basilica to the historic Bonsecours Market.
Things to Do in Old Montreal
Notre-Dame Basilica – The most iconic site in Montreal, this Gothic Revival basilica from the 1800s may be one of the most beautiful churches in North America.
Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours-Chapel – Built in the 17th century, this is one of the oldest churches in Montreal, offering a small museum and a beautiful interior for reflection.
Saint-Paul Street – This charming pedestrian street, one of the oldest in the city, features a variety of shops and cafés.
Old Port (Vieux-Port) – An ideal location for a stroll along the St. Lawrence River or a scenic boat ride.
Take the Orange metro line (get off at any of the stations that service this neighborhood). For further information on transport, check the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) website for updated costs and schedules.
2. Downtown Montreal – Skyscrapers, Entertainment & Culture
If you are looking for where to stay in Montreal to immerse yourself in the energetic city center, Downtown is the ideal neighborhood. It boasts the largest concentration of skyscrapers and is the business district of the city.
Despite the hustle, Downtown Montreal offers cultural experiences with unique museums, cafes, bars, theaters, and shopping options.
Things to Do in Downtown Montreal
Au Sommet – The second tallest skyscraper in the city, providing great views of Montreal from the top.
Museums – Check out the Musée d’art Contemporain de Montréal (MAC) and the Montreal Museum of Fine Art.
Place des Arts – The largest performing arts complex in Montreal, hosting Broadway shows and concerts throughout the year.
3. Le Plateau-Mont-Royal – Stylish, Cool, Francophone
If you’re looking for a hipster haven full of colorful facades, hip bars, and funky murals, the Plateau is one of the best places to stay in Montreal.
This trendy area is known for its vibrant local culture and community spirit, offering endless opportunities for exploration.
Things to See near Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
Rue St-Denis & Boulevard St-Laurent – The two busiest streets in the neighborhood featuring plenty of shops and restaurants to explore.
La Banquise – A must-visit for poutine lovers, known for its iconic dish.
Montreal Bike and Bites – A bike tour exploring local restaurants and cultural hotspots.
4. Mile End – Multicultural & Good Eats
Mile End is known for its vibrant and multicultural culinary scene. This area is home to some of the best foodie spots in Montreal, including the famous sweet bagels.
Things to Do in Mile End
Most activities revolve around food and drink, making it a popular destination for foodies.
Fairmount Bagel & St-Viateur Bagel – Try both legendary shops to determine which offers the best bagel.
Bernard Street – A charming street popular for cafes and shops perfect for people watching.
5. The Village – Gay District, Nightlife & Outdoor Terraces
Known for having one of the largest LGBT communities in North America, The Village is the epicenter of nightlife in Montreal, featuring an extensive collection of bars, restaurants, and clubs.
Things to See in The Village
Boules Roses – A stunning art installation consisting of brightly colored circles adorning Sainte-Catherine St. every summer.
Montreal Pride Festival – This annual festival in August is one of the largest celebrations of its kind in the Francophone world.
Montreal Quick Tips
Make use of Montreal’s efficient metro system, the third busiest in North America. Visitors can purchase the OPUS card for unlimited travel on public transport, making transportation around the city simple and convenient.
As you can probably tell just by reading through this guide, Montreal is a diverse city worth visiting any time of the year. Immerse yourself in its vibrant cultural scene, culinary delights, and rich history. The options for exploration are endless.
