5 Days Exploring Montreal

• Walk through Old Montréal, the Old Port and Downtown to See Cité Mémoire. Stroll through the historic streets of Old Montréal, the scenic Old Port and bustling downtown, while enjoying the interactive light projections of Cité Mémoire. This is an enchanting way to immerse yourself in the city's rich history.

• Notre-Dame Basilica: A must-visit, this iconic landmark features breathtaking Gothic Revival architecture and a mesmerizing interior, including its renowned light show, AURA. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Montreal.

• La Grande Roue de Montréal: Take a ride on Canada’s tallest observation wheel for stunning panoramic views of the city, especially magical during winter when the snow blankets the scenery.

• Great Christmas Market: The festive vibes of Montreal's Christmas markets are unmatched, featuring charming stalls with handmade goods, seasonal treats and holiday cheer. It's a perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.

• Walk through Montréal’s Underground City: Escape the winter chill by exploring the vast network of underground malls, shops and walkways that connect Montreal’s downtown core. It’s an essential and unique city experience.

• Walking tour: Join a guided walking tour with Spade & Palacio to uncover the hidden stories and landmarks of Montreal’s historic and modern neighborhoods. It's an engaging way to see the city through a local’s eyes.

• Lumino: Immerse yourself in a dazzling display of lights and art installations that bring Montreal to life at night. This event showcases the city’s creative spirit and is a visual treat for all ages.

• Walk through Chinatown: Explore Montreal’s vibrant Chinatown, full of authentic restaurants, unique shops and cultural landmarks like the iconic Paifang Gate. It’s a small area packed with big flavors and rich history.

• Visit the Jean-Talon Market: Discover fresh produce, artisanal goods and local delicacies at this lively market in the heart of Little Italy. It’s a foodie’s paradise and a great way to experience Montreal’s culinary diversity.

• Visit Pointe-à-Callière Museum: This award-winning archeological and history museum offers fascinating exhibits that trace the origins of Montreal and its multicultural evolution.

• Experience an exhibition at Phi Center: This cutting-edge art and cultural space offers immersive exhibitions and experiences that blend technology with contemporary art. A must for those who love innovative creativity.

• Experience an exhibition at Place d’Arts: Located in the heart of Old Montréal, Place d’Armes hosts rotating exhibitions and events, combining history with modern culture in a beautiful setting.

• Experience Oasis Immersion: Located in Palais des Congrès de Montréal, Oasis Immersion offers a cutting-edge, fully immersive experience with stunning 360-degree visuals, captivating soundscapes and interactive elements. Each exhibit is designed to engage your senses and transport you to a world of art, culture and technology.

• Visit McCord Stewart Museum: Dive into Montreal’s past through exhibits showcasing the city’s history, Indigenous cultures and art. It’s an intimate yet insightful cultural experience.

• Explore the Golden Square Mile: Once home to Montreal’s elite, this neighborhood boasts stunning architecture, historic mansions and upscale boutiques, offering a glimpse into the city’s affluent past.

• Visit Holt Renfrew Ogilvy’s: Shop luxury brands and enjoy the elegant ambiance of one of Montreal’s premier department stores. A treat for fashion enthusiasts.

• Visit McGill University: Tour one of Canada’s most prestigious universities, featuring historic buildings, sprawling green spaces and a picturesque campus nestled near Mount Royal.

• Bota Bota Spa: Experience ultimate relaxation aboard this unique floating spa on the St. Lawrence River. Offering breathtaking views of the city skyline, thermal baths and soothing treatments, Bota Bota is a rejuvenating escape right in the heart of Montreal.

• Battle of the bagels: St-Viateur Bagel vs. Fairmount Bagel — sample two of Montreal’s most iconic bagel shops and decide for yourself who wins the ultimate bagel showdown. Each offers freshly baked bagels with a unique twist that locals and visitors adore.

Bagel institutions

• St. Viateur Bagel: A Montreal classic since 1957, St. Viateur Bagel is renowned for its wood-fired, hand-rolled bagels with a delightfully chewy texture and subtle sweetness. Perfect for a quick bite or as a souvenir of the city!

• Fairmount Bagel: Fairmount Bagel has been delighting locals and tourists alike since 1919 with its iconic Montreal-style bagels, offering a variety of flavors baked to perfection in a traditional wood-fired oven.

Comfort food

• Chez Claudette: A late-night favorite, Chez Claudette is beloved for its hearty Quebecois dishes, especially its wide array of poutine variations. A true comfort food spot for locals and visitors alike. Recommendations: classique and five poivres.

• BeaverTails: This iconic Canadian treat serves up delicious fried dough pastries topped with everything from cinnamon sugar to Nutella, making it a must-try indulgence for sweet lovers. Recommendations: maple and bananrama.

Fine dining & culinary experiences

• Monarque: A sophisticated brasserie in Old Montreal, Monarque blends classic French techniques with a contemporary flair, offering an elevated dining experience with a warm ambiance. Recommendations: foie gras, warm marinated olives, hummus dukkha gnocco fritto, bone marrow with burgundy snails, ricotta ravioli and braised veal cheeks.

• Joe Beef: A legendary restaurant in Little Burgundy, Joe Beef is known for its innovative, indulgent dishes and its bold, unapologetically creative approach to Quebecois cuisine. Recommendations: Very French tuna tartare, butternut squash soup, curds & truffles, burgundy snails and mulard duck breast, peppered heart sauce and stone fruits.

Cafés & bakeries

• Cafe Nocturne: This cozy café is perfect for a late-night coffee or dessert, offering a serene atmosphere and delicious artisanal brews. Recommendations: Yirgacheffe drip.

• Reservoir: A microbrewery and café hybrid, Reservoir pairs freshly brewed coffee with a stellar selection of craft beers and inventive small plates. Recommendations: IPA, olives and mignonette.

• Cafe Holt: Located inside Holt Renfrew, this chic café offers premium coffee, light bites and an elegant space for relaxing between shopping sprees. Recommendations: The beef and salmon tartare, tomato bisque or truffle fries are perfect for a goúter.

• Olive + Gourmando: This beloved Old Montreal café is known for its warm ambiance, fresh baked goods and creative sandwiches, making it a local and tourist favorite. Recommendations: Le Cubain, Bol de Riz + Saumon, matcha latte and a bloody caesar.

Asian-inspired delights

• Pâtisserie Bao Bao Dim Sum: A hidden gem offering a variety of delicious Chinese pastries and authentic dim sum dishes, perfect for a casual yet satisfying meal. Recommendations: port and cabbage bao.

• Nouilles de Lan Zhou: This spot specializes in hand-pulled Lanzhou-style noodles, featuring flavorful broths and freshly made noodles that transport you straight to China. Recommendations: Beef Lanzhou Noodle Special combo with spicy cucumber salad.

Unique desserts & sweets

• Bons à la Barbe de Dragon: This dessert spot creates whimsical dragon beard candy with unique textures and sweet fillings, a fun and interactive treat for all ages.

Trendy dining & unique experiences

• La Central: This trendy food hall is a haven for foodies, offering diverse culinary options from gourmet tacos to fresh sushi, all under one stylish roof. Perfect for groups with diverse tastes. Recommendations: Le Ferreira.

• Les Refuges du Bivouac: A one-of-a-kind dining experience combining gourmet cuisine with an outdoor-inspired ambiance, making it feel like a cozy cabin escape in the city. Located inside the Hilton Double Tree Hotel on the 6th floor, this one-of-a-kind experience will have you dining under clear domes on the outdoor patio of the hotel. There are three domes available and this space is ideal for couples. You will have the full view of the artwork at the Quartier des Spectacles. Recommendations: try the six-course tasting menu.

Bars & elegant hangouts

• Bar George: Located just inside the Le Mount Stephen hotel, Bar George blends British-inspired cuisine with a modern twist, offering craft cocktails and an opulent atmosphere perfect for a chic night out.