Curator’s statement
Montréal is a lively and romantic city that is compared to a little version of Paris. There’s historic architecture, brick roads, amazing places to eat, drink and shop, and although many speak French, English is quite common there, too. I recommend traveling around the holidays, when the streets are lit up with lights, the lake is frozen over and you truly feel like you are in a winter wonderland. If you are looking for a romantic getaway during the holiday season, Montréal is the place to be.
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Things to do in Montréal
Spa day at Bota Bota
Bota Bota is a river ferry turned spa that is located on the river and overlooks the Montreal skyline. This spa experience is unlike any other and really gets the full experience of Bota Bota. I recommend the water circuit, followed by a massage and then dining at the restaurant afterward (preferably with a glass of wine and a charcuterie board). The water circuit consists of a variety of saunas, cold baths and relaxation areas, so you can go through the circuit each time with your own unique preference The hot tub looking out to the Montreal skyline is my favorite relaxation spot.
You do feel like you’re in your own little world on that boat, as you are completely disconnected from the outside world and any distractions that take away your peace of mind (no cell phones allowed). I highly recommend checking out this spa. You deserve to be pampered!
Ride the ferris wheel and go ice skating
La Grande Roue de Montréal is located at the Old Port and consists of 42 cabins with glass windows, offering you a panoramic view of the city 200 feet high. The ferris wheel has a controlled temperature, so even when it’s freezing outside, you are comfortable inside the cabin. It is absolutely breathtaking to see the frozen river and beautiful architecture of the city from so high up. You really do feel on top of the world!
Ice skating is located right near the Ferris wheel. You can rent skates and there are props if you need assistance. I am a Florida girl, so this was my first time ice skating outside. I had a blast! It was so much fun.
Visit the museums
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts consists of six floors showcasing a variety of artists from different periods and walks of life. The diversity of these masterpieces is quite impressive and will challenge the mind to see unique forms of self-expression and points of view. If you are looking for a more playful museum experience, I recommend the Museum of Illusions. It’s a place of trippy illusions that challenge your perception and senses and has lots of great photo opportunities.
Places to eat & drink in Montréal
To eat
Tiraditio: A Peruvian-Latin fusion restaurant that consists of one large bar and an open kitchen concept. It has a very warm and inviting atmosphere, where you can see the chefs prepare each meal while they offer delicious food/drink recommendations and friendly conversation. The ceviche and duck anticucho were incredible!
Holder: A French brasserie with a spacious and buzzing ambiance that features elegant French cuisine and amazing service. I will advise- make sure to save room for dessert! The creamy chocolate, stracciatella ice cream, caramel and chocolate sauce was my favorite.
To drink
Milky Way Cocktail Bar: Vibrant, colorful atmosphere with a funky tiki vibe and a skylight ceiling. When I went they still had a bunch of fun Christmas decor that made everything more festive. They also have a cool blacklight stairwell which feels like a portal entering and exiting the bar. Their cocktails are just as fun as the bar itself!
Le 4e Mur - Agence de Detectives: a speakeasy where the entrance reminds me of Harry Potter when he’s entering Diagon Alley with Hagrid. Once you figure out the entrance, you are led down a stairwell with paintings of different characters along the walls. The bartender asks if you want to play a murder mystery game and you obviously say yes! He hands you the menu with certain drinks connected to different characters. With each drink, you get a clue to solve the mystery. There are fun riddles and puzzles to play with, and sometimes the drinks themselves are linked to clues. Incredible experience, highly recommend.
Atwater Cocktail Club: Another speakeasy, this spot has a dark and moody vibe with silver metallic booths, mirrored ceilings, black walls, and funky vintage decor. Their cocktail list is categorized with the aesthetic of paint samples. I had the Mad Whale and it was delicious!
Club Pelicano: A pool-themed bar and dj hub with pool floor tiling, blue lighting, and disco balls. They played 70s disco music when I went, but they also play house, afrobeats and electro music. Club Pelicano is located just below Tiradito. This bar is a great place to go for after-dinner drinks.
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Kristen Baureis
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Canada. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Rollo Reese’s guide, 10 Days of Summer in Montreal, Toronto, Niagara Falls and Quebec City.