Exploring the Best of Old Montréal
Montréal’s oldest neighbourhood is fittingly called Old Montreal. This historic neighbourhood dates back to the early 1600s. It spans several blocks next to the waterfront of the Saint Lawrence River. Stroll the cobblestoned streets and you’ll feel like you are in Europe. Beyond the historic sites, you’ll also find many cafés, restaurants, boutique hotels and shops.
Explore the best of Old Montréal with this self guided tour. This walking tour will bring you to all of the must-see attractions in the historic Old Montreal.
Top Things to See in Old Montreal
Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel
The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel was built over the ruins of another church in 1771, making it among the oldest chapels in Montréal. It’s also home to the Marguerite Bourgeoys Museum, which honors the woman who was Montréal’s first teacher and founder of the original Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours. For an incredible view of Old Port Montreal, climb to the lookout at the top of the chapel.
Address: 400 rue Saint Paul Est
Bonsecours Market
The Bonsecours Market, from 1847, is recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada and was once the largest public market in Montréal. Today, the domed space offers eateries and boutique shops selling mainly local Quebec-made items from art to fashion. You’ll find many sketch artists sit on the edge of the market to capture to capture this historic square of the Chapel and L’ Auberge Saint-Gabriel.
Address: 350 rue Saint Paul Est
1-minute walk from Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel
Château Ramezay
Château Ramezay is a museum in a historic building built in 1705. It was the first building to be recognized as a historical monument in Quebec and was also designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1949. The museum honours the early era of the city’s history. Through its exhibitions, it shows how the people of New France lived over many centuries ago. The historic site and museum were selected as one of the ‘1001 Historic Sites You Must See Before You Die’ by a team of experts in partnership with UNESCO.
Be sure to walk around the back of the Château and stroll through the Governor’s Garden. It mimics the original 18th century garden, only on a much smaller scale. The garden is in the formal French style and is divided into three equal-sized sections: a kitchen garden, an orchard and an ornamental garden. Surrounding these sections, at the foot of the stone walls, is a fourth section consisting of herbs and medicinal plants. A ram’s-head fountain greets you as you enter the garden.
Address: 280 rue Notre-Dame Est
3-minute walk from Bonsecours Market
Montréal City Hall
Montréal City Hall (or Hôtel de Ville) is an impressive building. Built between 1872 and 1878 it was inspired by the Hôtel de Ville Tours in France. It is known as one of the best examples of the Second Empire style in Canada. Located next to Vauquelin Square and its beautiful fountain, this incredible landmark is not to be missed.
275 Notre-Dame St. Est
1-minute walk from Chateau Ramezay
Place Jacques-Cartier
Place Jacques-Cartier is a historical square named after the explorer who claimed Canada for France in 1535. It leads from Montréal City Hall to the Old Port. The stretch of cobblestone street is pedestrian only, and in the summer months is host to events. festivals and street art. It’s bustling with performers, artisans and artists. At the north end of Place Jacques-Cartier stands Montreal’s oldest public monument, Nelson’s Column, which was erected in 1809 to honour the British officer Horatio Nelson. The square is also lined with many restaurants. Sit and stay a while, you’ll want to soak up the lively atmosphere.
Address: Rue Jacques-Cartier
2-minute walk from City Hall
Old Port Montréal
The Old Port Montreal (or Vieux-Port) was used by French fur traders as early as 1611. Although it is has not operated as the city’s main port since the 1970s, it still has a main purpose – tourism. Here, you can eat, drink, walk, cycle or paddleboat along the pier. Other attractions include the Montreal Science Centre, a wintertime skating rink, a Ferris wheel (called the Grande Roue) and a zip line. This family friendly spot is lined with food trucks along the pier.
Address: Promenade du Vieux Port
1-minute walk from Place Jacques-Cartier
Grand Quay
Walk along the Promenade du Vieux Port until you reach the Grand Quay. Jutting into the Saint Lawrence River, the Grand Quay is a newly addition to the Old Port. From here take a boat cruise where you can admire the views of the waterway and its surroundings. The Grand Quay is one of the best vantage points to see Habitat 67, a cube-like housing complex famously designed by architect Moshe Safdie for Expo 67, the world’s fair hosted by Montreal in 1967.
Address: rue de la Commune and rue Saint Sulpice
5-minute walking distance from Old Port
Notre-Dame Basilica
One of Montreal’s most acclaimed architectural structures is undoubtedly the Notre-Dame Basilica. The interior of the stately 19th-century this church is known to be one of the world’s most dramatic. The blue-and-gold vaulted ceilings, ornately decorated carvings and vivid stained glass walls are a sight to be seen. It is known for being the first Gothic Revival-style church in Canada. In addition to regular mass services, many ceremonies of Canada’s most prominent citizens are held here, like Celine Dion’s lavish wedding.
Address: 100 rue Notre-Dame
5-minute walk from Grand Quay
Place d'Armes
Place d’Armes is the oldest public square in the city. Here you will find some of the most impressive architecture- the old Bank of Montreal, Art Deco buildings and the Notre Dame Basilica. Look out for the bronze statues called ‘The English Pug and the French Poodle’ also known as the Two Snobs. They face away from each other on opposite sides of a building wearing a snobby theatrical nose mask. It’s meant to poke fun at the French and English Canadians ‘friendly rivalry’.
Address: Place d’Armes
1-minute walk from Notre-Dame Basilica
Royal Bank Tower
Once the tallest building in all of Canada, the 1920s Royal Bank Tower is still an incredible sight to see. The Neoclassical building is open to the public as it now houses a café in its impressive lobby. Or, return in the evening and check out its nightclub in its historical bank vaults.
Address: 360 rue Saint-Jacques
5-minute walk from Place d’Arms
Centre d’Histoire de Montréal
The Centre d’Histoire de Montréal is a museum dedicated to learning about the city’s eventful history. With three floors and several exhibitions, it traces Montréal’s history through photographs and artefacts, including the story behind Montréal Expo. It used to be an old fire station which was in use from 1904 to 1972.
Address: 335 Place d’Youville
6-minute walk from Royal Bank Tower
Maison de Mere d'Youville
The Maison de Mere d’Youville is a historic site dedicated to the first Canadian saint, Marguerite d’Youville. In 1693, 51 years after the founding of Montreal, a ‘home for charity’ was built, followed by a hospital and chapel that was run by Saint Marguerite and the Grey Nuns. Today, a permanent exhibition recounts the influence of her work.
Address: 138 rue Saint-Pierre
2-minute walk from The Centre d’Histoire de Montréal
St Paul Street
Saint Paul Street is the oldest and most picturesque street in the city. Walk along the cobblestone street lined with historic greystone buildings. These elegant buildings are filled with shops, galleries and restaurants. The entire street runs through Old Montréal. It’s worth just walking from tip to tip and back again gazing upon the architecture and perusing the shops each way.
Best Urban Parks in Old Montreal
Place Marguerite-Bourgeoys
Marguerite Bourgeoys (1620-1700) was a nun and known as the foundress of the Congregation de Notre Dame de Montréal. She was recruited to educate the French and Indian children in the new colony. In 1659 she began receiving girls (known as the filles du Roy) who were sent by the King of France to establish homes in Montreal and became a mother figure to them. She introduced a school system and a network of social services which gradually extended throughout Canada. For that she is referred to as Marguerite the “Mother of the Colony”.
Address: Rue Notre-Dame
Nearby: Montreal City Hall
Place de la Dauversière
Place de la Dauversière is an unassuming public space that is frequented by the locals. Sitting adjacent to the lively Place Jacques-Cartier, it provides a quiet, relaxing respite away from the crowds. Sit awhile, under the large tree canopies, and watch the pigeons flutter about.
Named in honour of Jérôme Le Royer de La Dauversière, founder of the Société de Notre-Dame, it was the site of the Lemoine-Despins family home in 1750, then James McGill in 1805.
Address: 280 Rue Notre-Dame Est
Nearby: Sits between Place Jacques-Cartier and Château Ramezay
Victoria Square
Victoria Square is a public space where Old Montréal ends and Downtown Montreal begins. The Square was named after Queen Victoria (1819-1901) and the monument was unveiled in 1872. The entrance to the métro station in the Square bears an authentic Paris métro railing. The Art Nouveau casting was designed by Hector Guimard in 1900 and was offered to the city of Montréal by the city of Paris, on the occasion of the 1967 World Exhibition.
Address: Rue du Square-Victoria
Near by: Royal Bank Tower
Best Eateries in Old Montreal
Here are the best places to go for…
- Boulangeries: L’Amour du Pain Vieux-Montreal, bar à beurre, La Cave à Manger
- Brunch: Olive et Gourmando, Jardin Nelson, Chez Suzette
- Cafés: Café Olimpico, Tommy, Café de Mercanti, Le Petit Dep
- Ice Cream: Ca Lem, Le Petit Dep, Mlle Catherine
- Dinner: Toqué! Garde Manger, Pyrenees
Or, why not dine at one of these two historical places…
Best Place to Stay in Old Montreal
St Paul Hotel
The St Paul Hotel is located in Old Montréal in a Beaux-Arts building. Beaux-Arts architecture was the academic architectural style taught at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris during the period of 1830s until the end of the century. The interior is just as impressive as the exterior. The award-winning Borrallo Interiors, a Montreal design firm, created a sophisticated, yet bold space. Vibrant colours in rich jewel tones adds a bit of drama to its modern clean lines. And, it’s also known as the first ever boutique hotel in Canada.
Top 5 reasons why St Paul Hotel is the best place to stay:
- It’s dog friendly (note there is a $50/night charge for your pet).
- The location. Even though Old Montreal is small and walkable, the hotel is away from the most ‘touristy’ area of this neighbourhood.
- It’s an architectural gem.
- The interior design is highly stylized and uber cool.
- Their personalized service was top notch.
Tip when booking: ask for the top floor and you will be awarded with amazing views of the city (Request Room 1007).
Montreal Travel Tips
If you are coming to the city for the first time, here are some of the top travel tips you should be aware of:
- After Paris, Montreal holds the position of the second-largest French-speaking city in the world. However, you’ll find that most people speak both English and French.
- Montreal is a walkable city and really only need transportation (car, metro, bus) if you’re planning to hop from neighbourhood to neighbourhood.
- Looking for Happy Hour? Look for signs in front of pubs, bars, and some restaurants that advertise “5-à-7 or cinq-à-sept”. This is how Montreal refers to Happy Hour.
- Montreal is a city where you can enjoy many festivals, historical places and museums. So, to experience all these things, you should plan a trip of 5-7 days which will be enough time to experience this city.
- Beyond Old Montreal, the top attractions in Montreal are Mount Royal Park, Montreal Botanical Garden, Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal.
As a holidaymaker…
Montréal is a such a lively historic city. The late, and great, Anthony Bourdain had deep affection for the city and said, “It’s where the cool kids hang out.” And he’s right! I love everything about this city, but especially Old Montréal. It can rival any European city. With this intinery, plan to spend a full day in Old Montréal. Au reviour!
Disclosure: As an Affiliate Associate of Booking.com if you click on the link contained in this post, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you decide to book.
47 Comments
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JoJo Hall
Old Montreal looks like a little place straight out of Europe! I can definitely see some inspiration in the architecture and designs within the location. It would be a cute little weekend getaway.
The.Holidaymaker
It is most definitely the perfect getaway weekend kind of city!
Andi Fisher
I’ve had Montreal on my bucket list for a very long time, but when I was living on the West Coast I always just went to France instead. Now that I live on the East Coast, Montreal is calling to me, as it looks like a fabulous town for a Francophile to visit!
The.Holidaymaker
Oh definitely, you will fit right in with this Francophone European-esque city.
Emma
I really enjoyed visiting Montreal, and especially Old Montreal. Living in Vancouver it was nice for a change to see a Canadian city with a bit more history, something I’m used to coming from Europe. You’re making me want to go back and visit Montreal again. And now I have some more dining recommendations too – especially the historic places
The.Holidaymaker
Yes, a return trip is in order, definitely for the food alone!
Candy
I hope to explore Old Montreal someday. Everything looks so beautiful and the hotel suggestion you made looks fabulous. It’s great that it’s a lively historic city and so funny that Bourdain said it was where the cool kids hung out. I hope I’m cool enough to hang out here!
The.Holidaymaker
Hopefully you get a chance to visit one day soon.
Maggie
I had no idea how many old, beautiful buildings Montreal has! It looks more like a European city than one on this side of the Atlantic. Hard to believe I still haven’t visited there. It’s definitely on my list though!
The.Holidaymaker
Hopefully you’ll be able to experience it one day soon. It’s such a great city and a must if coming to Canada!
Amrita
Old Montreal sounds so fascinating. The place looks so beautiful and has so much history. Definitely a place that I would love to visit. The Notre-Dame Basilica and Montreal city Hall looks so grand and majestic. I am sure Old Montreal will be a fascinating visit.
The.Holidaymaker
Indeed it is, with a touch of European charm.
Bhushavali N
As a history buff, Old Montreal is the kind of place I’d totally love to visit. To begin with I can see the French influence in the name of the Cathedral itself. The architecture of Centre d’Histoire de Montréal is so beautiful, reminds me much of European buildings. Good to see the entrance to metro stations look exactly the same as in Paris. Interesting to learn about Marguerite Bourgeoys and the filles du Roi.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you for your comment. This French speaking city definitely has a European charm.
Emma Earthwanderer
I knew nothing about old Montreal before reading this post, except ofcourse Notre Dame. I’m intrigued by the nightclub in the old bank vault, that would be cool! I’d also love to wander the cobblestoned street of St Paul and check out some of those cafes and boutiques.
The.Holidaymaker
I’m so glad I was able to introduce you to this fantastic part of the city.
Gustavo A Feliciano
Old Montreal looks like an amazing place to visit, Notre Dame looks awesome!
The.Holidaymaker
So glad you think so, and hopefully you’ll get the chance to go there one day.
Barbara Farfan
It’s hard to imagine a time when the Royal Bank Tower was the tallest building in Canada, eh? I’ve been to all the major cities of Canada and Old Montreal beats them all with authentic charm. It’s almost like a theme park! Montreal is also where I had my first – and last – Poutine. That was a Memorable Montreal Moment, indeed! This is a reall great Old Montreal roundup – thanks!
The.Holidaymaker
I’m so glad it brought back some memories for you. Indeed it’s a fantastic city!
Riana Ang-Canning
Ah this post puts such a smile on my face! I’ve visited Montreal a few times and wandering through Old Montreal is always a highlight. I love the streets, eateries and beautiful buildings. Chez Suzette is definitely a favourite! I haven’t seen the Two Snobs statues though. Will have to keep an eye out for those on my next visit!
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Riana for your comment. Yes, you will definitely have to keep your eye out for those statues. Agree about Crepe Suzette, I definitely wanted to add it to my recommendation on places to eat.
Clarice
The Old Port Montréal looks like a great place to spend the an relaxing afternoon. Love the idea of eating and drinking along the pier. It’s nice it has a skating rink and Ferris Wheel. My kids would love it.
The.Holidaymaker
Clarice this city is incredibly family friendly. The port has many other great things to do with kids. Hopefully you get a chance one day soon.
Agnes
Old Montréal seems a fabulous place for a trip. I had no idea that it dated to the early 1600s. I want to visit Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel and the Bonsecours Market. Château Ramezay also seems very exciting as it shows how the people of New France lived many centuries ago. It’s great to know that it’s on a list as one of the ‘1001 Historic Sites You Must See Before You Die’ by a team of experts in partnership with UNESCO. I add it to my bucket list.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Agnes for your kind comment. It seems like a lot of the highlights here intrigued you, so I do hope you get a chance to visit this amazing city.
Barry
I have to say this first, as it’s so true. Montreal has one of the best Modern Art Galleries in the world. I too visited Montreal several years ago and the Gallery visit was one of my most endearing moments. The artworks were superb, in well lit settings and such an eclectic variety.
It’s interesting how we are similar in our takes on the city but also slightly different.
Your pics are beautiful. That’s a wonderful pic of the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel. I took it from the back and clearly thought that was the main part, duhhh – yours show the front and is a much better angle and pic.
Would have loved to see the places you highlight as they look enchanting – pressure of time again reduced the number of places I could see. I will visit your choices next time round!
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Barry for your kind compliments. I too have a picture of the back of the Chapel, but opted to share the front!
I will have to visit the Gallery, I couldn’t as I was travelling with my dog. But next time I need to sneak that in. Thanks for the recommendation.
Anda
Montreal has been on my list for a while now, so I’m glad I stumbled upon your post. It contains a lot of useful information that concerns not only the attractions, but also about lodging and places to eat. I love those statues in Place Marguerite-Bourgeoys.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Anda, I’m so glad you found the article helpful.
Vasu Devan
Canada is on our list. I am also somewhat of a history buff. Reading this article definitely comes at the right time. Thanks for sharing.
The.Holidaymaker
Hopefully you’ll be able to visit it soon. Thanks for stopping by.
gloria li
Montreal is the one Canadian city I am dying to visit having been to Ottawa and Vancouver. Thanks for sharing these tips.
The.Holidaymaker
Yes, you definitely have to visit it. It’s one of my favourite cities.
Raksha
I never knew that Montreal had such old part of history. I love all those places listed here, especially would love to see the cathedrals and walk around the Old Montreal. I have never been to Montreal till now but have always had it on my list. Hopefully I will make it there soon.
The.Holidaymaker
Visiting Old Montréal is a must! The entire city is fantastic, but there is so much history in this one neighbourhood. Hopefully you’ll get there one day.
Laureen Lund
It’s been about six years since my one and only visit to Montreal. I have always wanted to go back!!! It felt so European and the food was exceptional! Here’s hoping we can get the Canada USA border open soon…can’t wait to travel in Canada again. Great post…great photos.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Laureen, I’m so glad you enjoyed the article. And, hope the border opens soon too!
Alma
What a perfect insight into Old Montreal! Would love to explore here but enjoyed seeing it through your eyes.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Alma for stopping by and so happy to hear you enjoyed the article.
Linda (LD Holland)
This post is SO timely. We leave for Montreal on Tuesday for a few days before we head to Atlantic Canada. It has been a long time since I wandered in Montreal so these are great suggestions. I love all the older buildings and architecture. I always think of great food when I think of Montreal, so I have noted your suggestions.
The.Holidaymaker
Oh, how wonderful. I’m so glad to hear that you’ll find it useful. Enjoy your trip!