Montreal City Guide
Hi there, my name is Aly. After spending four summers at a camp just north of Montreal, it’s safe to say Montreal is my favourite Canadian city (sorry Toronto!). Whether you’re in Montreal for a weekend or find yourself there for longer, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure (and eating!).
From its eclectic food scene to its old European vibes, it can be tricky to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together a comprehensive pocket guide to help you make the most of your time in Montreal and share the recommendations of my must-sees and must-eats in the city.
Montreal is also a bilingual city, with French and English being the official languages. While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic French phrases will enhance your experience. So, pack your bags (and maybe a pocket French phrasebook) and get ready to fall in love with Montreal!
Places to Stay in Montreal
Whether you’re a Camp Canada participant, or just someone passing through Montreal, the M Montreal is by far the best hostel you can stay in. It’s no surprise it was voted #1 Best Hostel in Canada and Worldwide by Hostelworld for numerous years running. The rooms are spacious, clean and modern and the facilities are top-class. Be sure to check out the rooftop terrace and jacuzzis. However, there are plenty of hotels, Airbnbs, and B&Bs too to suit all budgets and travel styles. Consider what fits your needs best!
Best Neighbourhoods: Griffintown, The Village, Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
Must-Sees in Montreal
Having explored Montreal numerous times, here are a few of my must-sees that will unveil the city's charm for any first-time visitor.
Take in the city views from Mount Royal
The view from Mount Royal is the best place to start your Montreal trip. If you’re feeling jet-lagged, or brave enough to get up early, try and catch the sunrise from atop Mount Royal. Seeing the morning light slowly make its way over the skyscrapers is such a beautiful thing.
Make sure to snap a group shot on your Camp Snap with your new Camp Canada camp mates!
Embrace the European vibes of Old Montreal
As you would assume, Old Montreal is the oldest part of Montreal. There are loads of quaint shops and restaurants, with a cute European feel. I couldn’t have put together a better guide to Old Montreal myself, check out this guide from To Europe and Beyond!
The Olympic Park
The Olympic Park is a must-see for any architecture or history lover. Built for the 1976 Summer Olympics, it's a total jaw-dropper. The Montreal Tower (la Tour de Montréal) will have you zooming up to the observation deck for epic city views. And if you're feeling sporty, you can even take a tour of the Olympic Stadium itself!
Montreal Festivals
Not one to see, but one to check for sure as you might just stumble into a festival during your visit! Montreal throws down for everything from international jazz fest's to quirky niche celebrations. Check out what's happening before your trip, you might score a one-of-a-kind Quebecois experience!
Where to Eat in Montreal
Montreal's food scene is legendary, and you won't go hungry here! Exploring vibrant neighbourhoods like Downtown Montreal, Little Italy, Old Montreal, and Mile End is a must for any foodie. Here are some of my favourite places to eat:
For Brunch
After a long flight and jet lag, there’s no better place for a brunch-style feast than Allô! Mon Coco is only a 10-minute walk from the M Montreal Hostel. If you miss the hostel breakfast or want a mega lunch, Allô! Mon Coco won’t let you down!
For Poutine
You can’t go to the birthplace of poutine without giving it a try. While the combination of fries, gravy and cheese curds sounds peculiar, this Québécois delicacy should not be missed! We recommend La Banquise, which is open 24 hours, or Orange Julep which is a bit further from M Montreal but well worth the trip!
For Bagels
I couldn’t talk about Montreal food without an honorary mention for my all-time love, Montreal bagels. You won’t find anything like them anywhere else in the world! St-Viateur Bagel and Fairmount Bagel compete for the best bagel title and can be found in their stores or stocked by many local restaurants and cafés. What makes Montreal bagels so unique? They are boiled in water with honey, which makes the bagels much sweeter than New York bagels.
Traveller Tip: Don't forget to explore Montreal's food truck scene!
That's a wrap on my Montreal must-sees and must-eats! With its vibrant culture, delicious food scene, and stunning sights, Montreal is a city that will leave you wanting more. So, what are you waiting for? If you want more things to do in Montreal, Check out our 48 hours in Montreal blog which will provide you with plenty of inspiration on what to do during your stay!
