Old Montreal

old montreal
Inside the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal
old montreal
Street light illuminating the facades of old buildings
Cobbled street in Old Montreal
Cafe in Old Montreal with flowers

It’s impossible to be bored in Montreal. Simply wander about and you’ll be sure to stumble into an eclectic cafe, live music show, comedy event, interesting bar, or gallery showcasing top artists.

Cruise the neighbourhoods of Old Montreal on foot or bike, stumble into museums of fine art or independent galleries of contemporary newcomers, or take a picnic of classic French cheeses to the park and people-watch. Plan evenings dining at top restaurants serving up classic French cuisine and impeccable service before diving into late nights out at local bars with live music and pulsing energy. Then calm down the senses with a trip to a hot and cold therapy floating spa. There is excitement around every corner in this lively city.

Our Local Favourites

Restaurants

  • Pouring an Old Fashioned into a glass with ice and an orange twist

    01. l'Orignal

    Tucked down below street level in a historic building, this Old Montreal haunt serves up elegant comfort food. The menu changes often with seasonal ingredients, fabulous wine, curated cocktails, and a cozy ambiance with chalet character. This is the place for great food, quality music, and a really good time.

  • Cocktail and Aperol sprittz on table with a woman seated in the background

    02. Mano Cornuto

    The go-to spot for classic Italian. This neighbourhood favourite serves up a perfect negroni or Aperol spritz, freshly made pasta, and friendly service.

  • Wine bottles in a wooden wine rack

    03. L'Express

    This French bistro has been a refuge for artists and local business people since 1980 and serves up quality cuisine with professionalism and class. Don’t forget to check out the wine cellar of over 11,000 bottles that have been tucked away for decades.

  • Wheel of cheese on a board with a knife

    04. Lemeac

    Upscale and elegant, this classic French cuisine restaurant dishes out top-quality Quebec cheese, fine wines, and homemade desserts. The weekend brunch is not to be missed.

Sightseeing

  • People walking and biking by cafe in Montreal, credit malentrossi

    05. Walk Old Montreal

    Simply walking about Old Montreal is a whole day's activity. Stroll the streets and pop into local shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Join a walking tour or just wander about on your own. Don’t miss a stroll around the colourful, quirky, and creative Plateau-Mont-Royal neighbourhood and its northern quarter, Mile End, for famous Montreal bagels and a slew of vintage shops.

  • Statue of reclining woman, credit Hardeep

    06. Visit Museums and Cultural Centres

    Step inside the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts to see over 47,000 paintings, sculptures, graphic art, photos, and multimedia installations from artists across Canada and around the world. For a look into Montreal’s history and archeology, a visit to the Pointe-à-Callière is a must. Browse permanent collections and temporary exhibits about the world’s great civilizations before dining at the on-site Bistro L’Arrivage with a view of the St. Lawrence River.

Things to do

  • People enjoying a ride at La Ronde

    07. Day at La Ronde

    Make a day trip to visit Quebec’s largest theme park. La Ronde—a Six Flags theme park—is the perfect family or couples day out. Ride over 40 different rides and attractions from large roller coasters to smaller attractions for kids.

  • Close up of someone peddling a bike

    08. Bike the Canals

    Montreal has one of the most iconic urban pathways in Canada. Follow the Lachine Canal Path through a mosaic of city landscapes. Pack a picnic and stop in one of the many riverside parks along the way for a relaxing afternoon.

Unique Experiences

  • Statue of hockey players

    09. Catch a Concert or Game

    If you’re lucky, you can catch a Montréal Canadiens hockey game while in town. Being one of the most celebrated NHL teams in the league means the crowd is always lively and the vibes are high. Keep your eyes out for big-name musical acts and shows, too. Many top performers make this city of celebrated music history a stop while on tour.

  • Rippling water

    10. Take a Spa Day at Bota Bota

    This floating hydrotherapy circuit is not to be missed. Book a massage or health treatment before relaxing in the sauna, steam bath, cold immersion, and terrace hammock. You can stay all day with an on-site restaurant serving up snacks, drinks, and meals overlooking the Old Port of Montreal.