Montreal, the most populous city in Quebec and the second-most populated city in Canada, is a dynamic metropolis known for its cultural, historical, and economic importance. As one of North America’s most vibrant cities, Montreal boasts the second-largest French-speaking population globally.
Named after Mount Royal and situated on an island in the St. Lawrence River, the historical city of Montreal was referred to as “The City of a Hundred Steeples” by celebrated author Mark Twain. The city is particularly inviting for the LGBT community, fostering a dedicated environment that welcomes gay and lesbian visitors worldwide.
Unique among Canadian cities by having hosted the Summer Olympics in 1976, Montreal provides a diverse range of lodging options for travelers. Below, we explore some noteworthy neighborhoods to assist in your decision regarding accommodations during your visit to this remarkable city.
Old Montreal
The oldest district within the city, Old Montreal is positioned along the banks of the Saint Lawrence River. Recognized as one of the primary tourist sites in the area, this neighborhood features cobblestone streets and architecture that dates back to the 17th century. It is adorned with historical museums and authentic French dining options, interconnected to the city through three metro stations. During the summer, Place Jacques-Cartier becomes vibrant with street artists and tourists from around the world. While walking is notably the best way to explore this enchanting area, a Segway tour is also an enjoyable option.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Bonsecours Market, Notre-Dame Basilica, Montréal Science Centre, Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum, Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, and the Montréal Museum of Archeology and History.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Hotel Nelligan – Located within a short walking distance from major attractions, this historic hotel showcases elegant European architecture throughout. Guestrooms are equipped with various amenities including a TV with pay-per-view channels, iPod dock, and private bathroom. The 24-hour concierge is available to assist with your inquiries and requests. Savor authentic contemporary cuisine at the on-site restaurant and maintain your fitness routine at the on-site fitness center. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
- Hotel Épik Montréal – Featuring a coffee shop, a communal lounge, a multi-cuisine restaurant and bar, and an inviting terrace, this historic hotel is a short walk from the nearest metro station. Guests can stay in stylishly furnished rooms equipped with the latest amenities, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV with cable, tea/coffee maker, iPod dock, and ensuite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. A complimentary breakfast is offered daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- William Gray – Located a few hundred meters from Notre Dame Basilica Montreal, William Gray features beautifully designed rooms with state-of-the-art amenities, free shuttle service, an on-site bar, an in-house gift shop, and a 24-hour front desk. For convenience, the hotel also provides a cash machine and currency exchange service. Well-suited for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
Downtown
Downtown is a bustling area filled with professionals, university students, and enthusiastic shoppers; it serves as Montreal’s central business district. Situated on the southern slope of Mount Royal, the neighborhood features a significant concentration of skyscrapers, including 1000 de La Gauchetière and 1250 René-Lévesque. The Underground City, a landmark of note, is the largest in the world, offering indoor access to over 1,600 offices, dining venues, museums, universities, and retail shops. Saint Catherine Street, known for its upscale retail options, is the busiest commercial avenue in Canada.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Bell Center, Place des Arts, Opéra de Montréal, Canadian Center for Architecture, Montreal Museum of Modern Art, and Christ Church Cathedral.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Le Square Phillips Hôtel & Suites – This elegant hotel boasts a fitness center, indoor pool, business center, and sun deck, providing well-furnished suites and studio rooms equipped with kitchen facilities, cable TV, seating area, ironing amenities, and private bathroom. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily. Suitable for various types of travelers.
- Le St-Martin Hotel Centre-ville – Hotel Particulier – Located atop Montreal’s Underground City, this charming hotel features comfortable rooms with amenities such as cable TV, free Wi-Fi, cozy beds, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. On-site amenities include an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a fully-equipped fitness center. An optional breakfast is available daily. Ideal for diverse travelers.
- Courtyard by Marriott Montreal Downtown – Situated in the heart of Montreal’s business district, this stylish hotel offers luxurious rooms as well as amenities such as a sauna, indoor rooftop pool, fitness center, and an on-site dining establishment. Guests can relax at the outdoor terrace lounge or unwind in the hot tub. Well-suited for various types of travelers.
Plateau Mont-Royal
Adjacent to the lively downtown neighborhood, Plateau Mont-Royal, commonly referred to as the Plateau, is an arrondissement of Montreal located east of Mount Royal. As the most densely populated borough in Canada, this neighborhood, once inhabited predominantly by the working class, is now characterized by colorful and vibrant houses, charming cafés, bookstores, and notable attractions along Saint Laurent Boulevard, including La Centrale galerie Powerhouse, Casa del Popolo, and the famous Schwartz’s deli. Renowned for its bohemian atmosphere and distinctive architecture, it also includes the neighborhoods of Mile End and Milton-Perc (alongside the McGill Ghetto).
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: The Warshaw Building, Galeries du Parc, Parc du Mont-Royal, Parc Jeanne-Mance, Parc Lafontaine, Duluth Avenue, and The Rialto Theatre.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Hôtel de l’ITHQ – This property features well-appointed rooms with luxury amenities, on-site culinary instruction coupled with gourmet dining, a trained concierge service, seasonal menu dining options, and parking availability, making it a sought-after establishment in the area. A complimentary breakfast is provided daily. Ideal for all types of travelers.
- Manoir Sherbrooke – A historic establishment situated a short distance from Montreal’s most frequented sites and within a five-minute walk from the nearest metro station. The hotel showcases uniquely styled guestrooms with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, seating areas, cable TV, and private bathrooms. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Great for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
- Hotel Kutuma – Located a pleasant distance from the shopping lanes of Ste-Catherine Street, Hotel Kutuma provides spacious suites and rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, tea/coffee maker, kitchenette, safety deposit box, and ensuite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Additional features include an on-site restaurant offering delightful Ethiopian cuisine, room service, and parking facilities. A delicious optional breakfast is provided daily. Perfect for solo travelers and couples.
Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter, or Quartier Latin, has served as a hub for the city’s academic community since the 18th century. During the day, students bustle in and out of the Université du Québec à Montréal, while the evenings draw a lively crowd. Featuring a variety of movie theaters, bookstores, bars, restaurants, and nightlife venues, the Latin Quarter is part of the newly developing Quartier des spectacles, a cultural district that serves as the epicenter for artistic events and festivals in Montreal. Sometimes referred to as “New Montreal,” the area attracts musicians, artists, and performers seeking recognition.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Cathédrale Saint-Jacques de Montréal, Galerie de l’UQAM, Place Émilie-Gamelin, and Grande Bibliothèque du Québec.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Le Relais Lyonnais – Located 10 minutes from the nearest metro station, this establishment features an excellent French café, complimentary Wi-Fi, and parking facilities. Guestrooms come equipped with cable TV and DVD players, comfortable double beds, balconies, and private bathrooms with free toiletries. A short distance away, you can find Place des Arts and the historic Old Town. Great for solo travelers and couples.
- Loft Hotel Montreal – As one of the last remaining Art Deco landmarks in the city, Loft Hotel Montreal offers fully-furnished loft suites with high ceilings, hardwood floors, a living area furnished with modern décor, TV, iPod dock, a well-appointed kitchen, and ensuite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. A complimentary continental breakfast is provided daily. Ideal for all types of travelers.
- Best Western Plus Hotel Montreal – Situated a few hundred meters from the reputed University of Quebec in Montreal, this hotel offers beautifully designed guest rooms with features such as soundproofing, flat-screen TV with cable channels, free Wi-Fi, safety deposit box, coffee machine, and private bathroom. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily. Great for all kinds of travelers.
Griffintown
Griffintown is a vibrant neighborhood known for its condominium developments and renovated warehouses, situated adjacent to the Lachine Canal. Historically populated primarily by Irish immigrants, the area now boasts a thriving art scene. The Arsenal Montreal Exhibition space is an excellent venue for experiencing contemporary art, while the Montreal Art Center concentrates on showcasing local artists’ works. One of the landmark attractions in the area is the Notre-Dame Basilica, a significant Gothic Revival church established in the 1800s, celebrated for its spectacular stained glass. Additionally, the Pointe-à-Callière Museum, dedicated to archaeology and history, was founded in 1992 to commemorate Montreal’s 350th anniversary.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Bonsecours Market, Château Ramezay, Montreal Science Centre, Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, Musée d’art Contemporain de Montréal, and Redpath Museum.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Hotel Le Crystal Montreal – A 5-minute walk from Bell Center, this luxurious hotel and spa features exquisite rooms with modern facilities. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast followed by an energizing workout at the fitness center. Refresh yourself at the saltwater pool or indulge in a relaxing massage at the spa and sauna. Ideal for all types of travelers.
- Chateau Versailles – Merging historic charm with contemporary amenities, Chateau Versailles offers stunning accommodations featuring beautiful architecture and high-end facilities. Start your day with a lavish complimentary breakfast or an invigorating yoga session. Use the well-equipped fitness room to maintain your routine and explore the decorative antiques and fireplaces around the property at your leisure. Suitable for various travelers.
- Hotel Bonaventure Montreal – Set amidst 2.5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and streams, this elegant hotel provides luxurious accommodations, complimentary Wi-Fi, a fitness center, 24-hour front desk service, diverse dining options, and breathtaking views of Montreal from the rooftop pool. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Great for all types of travelers.
Gay Village
The Gay Village, a sub-neighborhood of Quartier Latin-Le Village encompassing the Latin Quarter and Sainte-Marie, is home to North America’s largest gay and lesbian community. This area is exceptionally welcoming to LGBT travelers from diverse backgrounds and hosts the annual Montreal Gay Pride Parade, recognized as the second-largest of its kind in North America, just after the event celebrated in Toronto. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and lively nightlife, the main thoroughfare is Rue Sainte-Catherine, a pedestrian-only street filled with restaurants and bars. Another notable street in the area is Rue Amherst, famous for its antique stores and boutique shops.
Good for: All types of travelers, particularly those from the LGBT community.
Other Highlights: Saint-Pierre-Apôtre Church, Grande Bibliothèque du Québec, Centre de Design UQAM, UQAM Gallery, and National Film Board of Canada Workshops and Viewing.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Hôtels Gouverneur Montréal – Located a short drive from Montreal’s bustling downtown area, this exceptional hotel offers well-appointed rooms featuring air conditioning, flat-screen TV with cable, coffee machines, closets, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy the indoor pool for a refreshing swim or utilize the on-site restaurant for delightful meals. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- Gite Le St-Christophe – Housed in a charming 19th-century townhouse, this delightful hotel features fully-furnished rooms with dressing areas, cable TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, and air conditioning. Guests can relax on the rooftop sundeck or take a leisurely stroll in the gardens. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Perfect for solo travelers and couples.
- Auberge Le Pomerol – A stunning Victorian-era property, Auberge Le Pomerol showcases beautifully designed rooms with maple furnishings and, in select rooms, a spa bath. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and parking facilities. Each morning, guests awaken to a complimentary breakfast basket. The nearest metro station is just a short walk away. Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
