Old Montreal
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
01. Restaurant L'Orignal
Nestled below street level in a historic building, this Old Montreal hideaway offers comforting yet elegant cuisine. The menu at Restaurant l'Orignal changes frequently with the seasons, complemented by fabulous wines, carefully crafted cocktails, and a warm, chalet-like ambiance. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy great food, listen to good music, and have an excellent time.
02. Restaurant Mano Cornuto
The must-visit spot for classic Italian cuisine. This popular neighborhood restaurant offers the perfect Negroni or Aperol Spritz, freshly made pasta, and friendly service.
03. Restaurant L'Express
This French bistro, a haven for artists and local businesspeople since 1980, offers high-quality cuisine with professionalism and elegance. Be sure to take a look at the wine cellar, which holds over 11,000 bottles preserved for decades.
04. Restaurant Lemeac
Chic and elegant, this classic French cuisine restaurant offers premium Quebec cheeses, fine wines, and homemade desserts. The weekend brunch is not to be missed.
Sightseeing
05. Stroll through Old Montreal
Strolling through Old Montreal can easily fill an entire day. Wander along the historic cobblestone streets, step into charming local boutiques, cafés, pubs, and restaurants. Join a guided walking tour to learn more about the neighbourhood’s past, or simply explore at your own pace.
Things to do
06. Visit the Museums and Cultural Centers
Discover the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, where you can admire over 47,000 paintings, sculptures, graphic works, photographs, and multimedia installations by artists from Canada and around the world. To explore the history and archaeology of Montreal, a visit to Pointe-à-Callière is a must. Wander through permanent collections and temporary exhibitions dedicated to major civilizations of the world, then enjoy lunch at the on-site Bistro L’Arrivage, which offers beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River.
07. Day Trip at La Ronde
Take a day trip to visit Quebec’s largest amusement park. La Ronde — a Six Flags park — is the perfect spot for a family or couple outing. Enjoy over 40 rides and attractions, from thrilling roller coasters to smaller rides for children.
08. Biking the canal
Montreal boasts one of Canada’s most iconic urban trails. Follow the Lachine Canal bike path as it winds through a mosaic of cityscapes. Bring a picnic and stop at one of the many riverside parks along the way for a relaxing afternoon.
Unique Experiences
09. Catch a Concert or a Game
If you’re lucky, you might catch a Montreal Canadiens hockey game during your visit. As one of the most famous teams in the NHL, the atmosphere is always lively and full of energy. Keep an eye out for major concerts and shows as well, since many renowned artists make this city, rich in musical history, a stop on their tours.
10. Spa Day at Bota Bota
This floating hydrotherapy circuit is not to be missed. Book a massage or wellness treatment at Bota Bota before relaxing in the sauna, steam bath, cold plunge, and hammock on the terrace. You can spend the whole day here thanks to the on-site restaurant offering snacks, drinks, and meals with views of Old Montreal’s Old Port.