Montreal’s Old Town (Vieux-Montréal) is a must-see and one of my favorite spots in the city to explore. This charming area has delightful restaurants, quaint shops, and fascinating attractions.
Here’s my list of recommended places to visit and some hotel suggestions to improve your stay.
Itinerary for Exploring Old Montreal
Start your day at Place d’Armes, where a monument to Paul de Chomedey, the founder of Montreal, is located in the center of the square.
Surrounding the square are notable buildings, including the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, home to one of the largest organs in the world. Designed by American architect James O’Donnell in 1829, the basilica’s interior is breathtaking, featuring vibrant colors and stunning architectural details. The square is also home to the headquarters of the Bank of Montreal.
Make your way to Place Jacques-Cartier, the vibrant heart of Old Montreal, where you’ll find a lively square filled with flowers, sidewalk cafés, and restaurants.
Next, stroll along Rue Saint-Paul, a charming street with inviting restaurants and unique souvenir shops.
Don’t miss the Marché Bonsecours on Rue Saint-Paul. Opened in 1847, it is one of Canada’s most beautiful historic buildings. It served as the Parliament of Canada in 1849 and later as Montreal’s City Hall from 1852 to 1878. The building has since been fully restored and modernized, housing shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.
After exploring the Marché Bonsecours, head to the Vieux-Port (Old Port), which stretches over 2 km along the St. Lawrence River.
The Plage de l’Horloge urban beach is among the port’s attractions. It’s located next to the Clock Tower and is a great spot to relax and enjoy the stunning river views.
Next, head to the Champ de Mars, a historic site once a military parade ground and home to the city’s fortifications, which were demolished in the early 19th century after Montreal City Hall was built. Today, the location of the original city walls is marked for visitors to see. City Hall, the old and new courthouses, and the Champ-de-Mars Station surround the area.
Also, be sure to visit the Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours, one of Montreal’s oldest chapels, built in 1771 on the site of an earlier chapel.
How to Get There
The Old Montreal area is easily accessible via the Orange Line, with three nearby stations:
- Square-Victoria
- Place-d’Armes
- Champ-de-Mars
History
Place d’Armes was the site of military ceremonies in the colonial era. When French colonists arrived in 1642, Montreal quickly became the fur trade hub in North America.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Montreal served as Canada’s industrial center, and this legacy is reflected in the architecture of many of its commercial buildings.
Where to Stay in Old Montreal
Maison Place Royale: It offers modern and spacious facilities in the heart of Old Montreal. It is ideal for a stay with family or friends. 133 De la Commune St W, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 2C7, Canada. Book here.
Auberge du Vieux Port by Gray Collection: This charming hotel offers comfort and elegance with river views. Rooms feature a TV and a minibar. 97 Rue de la Commune E, Montréal, QC H2Y 1J1, Canada. Book here.
Maison Saint-Vincent: This hotel is close to popular attractions and offers great value for money. Its cozy rooms have a flat-screen TV and a coffee machine. 443 R. Saint-Vincent, Montréal, QC H2Y 1E7, Canada. Book here.
Hyatt Centric Montreal: This hotel is a top choice in the city and highly rated by many travellers. It features modern and comfortable rooms with a flat-screen TV, coffee machine, and minibar. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool offering beautiful river and city views. 621 Notre-Dame St. East, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 0C2, Canada. Book here.
Hotel Nelligan: Nestled in the heart of Old Montreal, close to numerous attractions, this historic hotel exudes European elegance. Rooms have a flat-screen TV and a minibar. 106 Saint-Paul St W, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 1Z3, Canada. Book here.
Where to Eat in Old Montreal
Café Olimpico – Vieux-Montréal: A café serving delicious pastries and croissants in a charming atmosphere. 419 R. Saint-Vincent, Montréal, QC H2Y 3A6, Canada.
Jardin Nelson: A restaurant on Place Jacques-Cartier that serves salads, snacks, toasted sandwiches, pizzas, pokes, tacos, crêpes, and a good wine, beer, and cocktail menu. 407 Pl. Jacques-Cartier, Montréal, QC H2Y 3B1, Canada.
Crêperie Chez Suzette: It has a cozy atmosphere and outdoor tables. The menu offers options for soups, salads, quiches, bagels, crepes, and also fondues. 3 Rue Saint-Paul E, Montreal, QC H2Y 1E9, Canada.
Chez Delmo: Seafood restaurant. 275 Notre-Dame St W, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 1T8, Canada.
Olive et Gourmando: Located a few steps from Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, this café offers snack options, paninis, soups, and salads. 351 Saint-Paul St W, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 2A7, Canada.
Maison Saint-Paul: This restaurant is located near the Marché Bonsecours and offers gourmet and elegant cuisine. 343 Rue Saint-Paul E, Montréal, QC H2Y 1H3, Canada.
Maggie Oakes: A great restaurant option in Place Jacques-Cartier. The breakfast menu offers bagels, croissants, cereals, and pancakes. The menu offers salads, soups, sandwiches, pastas, and meats for lunch and dinner. 426 Pl. Jacques-Cartier, Montréal, QC H2Y 3B3, Canada.
Souvenir Shops in Old Montreal
Noël Éternel: It offers a variety of Christmas-related gifts and souvenirs. Boutique Noël Éternel Inc, 60A R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H2Y 1S6, Canada.
FANABOX: It offers products related to the Canadian Grand Prix. Caps, jackets, and t-shirts related to the theme can be found in the store. 28 Rue Saint-Paul E, Montréal, QC H2Y 1G3, Canada.
Autour de l’érable – Around Maple: Located in Bonsecours Market, this shop offers delicious teas, cookies and items made with the famous Maple Syrup. 350 Rue Saint-Paul E, Montréal, QC H2Y 1H2, Canada.
Map of Old Montreal
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See also
Old Town Zurich: A Complete Travel Guide
Exploring São Paulo: Must-See Top Attractions
From Concrete to Coastal: A São Paulo to Paraty Escape
Exploring São Paulo’s Financial District: A Complete Travel Guide