One of Canada’s best and biggest cities is Montreal. This city is full of culture and is a true melting pot of ideas, cuisine, and people. These are just a couple of aspects that make Montreal a must-visit North American city.
Whether you are here for some quick business meetings or you want to take the family on an unforgettable vacation, Montreal can deliver to anyone.
Canada usually isn’t known to have huge tourist populations, but Montreal is a hub for visitors and adventurers. From the great food to the live events to the public parks, Montreal has a ton to offer to every visitor.
Now, the best way to make the most of your short time in the city is by staying in the right neighborhood. When you are in the best location for you, you can see all you want and even more.
Here are five of the best areas to stay while visiting Montreal!
In this travel guide:
Mile End
To kick off the list of best areas in Montreal, we have Mile End. This is one of Montreal’s most historic districts and has a ton to discover for yourself. There are a few focal points that you need to check out at some point during your stay.
The first one would be Fairmount Bagel. This is Montreal’s first-ever bagel shop and is over 100 years old. This is a big part of Montreal’s culinary history and is a must-see.
Another top spot is Drawn and Quarterly. This is a well-known bookstore that offers a great place to relax and do a little shopping.
Some other hotspots include various cafes, breweries, bars, and top-tier restaurants. There is no shortage of cool options located in Mile End.
Best place to stay in Mile End
Hotel Kutuma. Address: 3708 St-Denis, Plateau Mont-Royal, H2X 3l7 Montreal, Canada. Please note: this hotel is not in Mile End, but it’s the best place to stay close to Mile End.
Saint-Henri
If you want a quiet, peaceful experience while in Montreal, Saint-Henri may be the place for you. This neighborhood is in the southwest part of the city and is very young, but rather quaint. This wasn’t always the nicest area in town, but the hipster movement struck hard and has changed dramatically.
Now, the streets are full of modern restaurants, affordable accommodations, and scenic overlooks. There is no shortage of things to do while walking around Saint-Henri.
One example is the Lachine Canal. This is an awesome focal point that is perfect for a picnic or date night. The canal itself is surrounded by green space and public areas. There are also some great hiking trails that go along the waterway and offer some beautiful natural sites.
Another big part of Saint-Henri’s identity is the nightlife. Since this is a pretty hip neighborhood, there are a few trendy bars and restaurants in this area. After exploring the rest of the city during the day, retreat to Saint-Henri and have a chill, yet fun evening with some friends.
Best place to stay in Saint-Henri
B&B Gite L’Imprévu. Address: 3932 St-Jacques, H4C 1H8 Montreal, Canada.
Plateau Mont-Royal
Located right on one of Montreal’s most iconic mountains, Plateau Mont-Royal is a very hip mountain area. There are a few different vibes that call this neighborhood home. On one side, there is a very young, vibrant crowd that lives through the cafes, art galleries, and fine dining.
On the other hand, there is the French Quarter which offers a wonderful look into French cuisine and culture. The various bistros and residential complexes lining Saint-Denis Street are a beautiful site to see.
The iconic house rows that are full of color are super photogenic and are worth checking out. While exploring, stop into a French bakery or café and grab some coffee and a pastry.
Although you aren’t in France, you can get a little taste of the French lifestyle right here in Plateau Mont-Royal. When you aren’t exploring this gorgeous town, hike up Mont-Royal and have an incredible view of the city and surrounding nature.
Best place to stay in Plateau Mont-Royal
Sonder Le Guerin. Address: 4501 Drolet St, Montreal, Quebec H2T 1R1, Canada.
Verdun
One of the more residential neighborhoods of Montreal is Verdun. However, that does not mean there is nothing to do.
There is one main attraction that calls Verdun home. This is the alcohol scene. I am not talking about seedy bars and wild parties in the streets. Verdun is home to a sophisticated, yet fun, alcohol culture.
There used to be heavy restrictions on alcohol consumption and sale in this part of the city, so there has been a total switch. Now, this area is full of breweries, cafes, cocktail bars, and is a leader in Montreal’s social life.
Even if you choose to stay in a different neighborhood, catching a cab and checking out the various offerings in Verdun is a fantastic way to spend a day.
Before grabbing a drink or visiting a craft brewery, venture off into the rest of Montreal and see what else the city has to offer. Other than the food and drink scene, there isn’t much more to do in Verdun. Luckily, you are in proximity to Downtown and some other Canadian hotspots.
Best place to stay in Verdun
B&B Repos & Manna. Address: 2140, Rue Quesnel, H3J 2R8 Montreal, Canada. Please note: this B&B is not in Verdun but it’s the best place to stay close to Verdun.
Villeray
Last, but not least, is Villeray. If you are taking your family and plan on staying for at least a few days, this is a fantastic option. That is because there is quite a bit packed into the neighborhood, but it is still very family-oriented.
During the day, go out and explore all of the public fixtures of Villeray. This includes Jarry Park, bodies of water, outdoor music venues, and other great, open areas. Jarry Park has traditional park structures, gazebos, and tennis courts, all for you to enjoy.
Throughout your time, indulge in incredible cafes, restaurants, and bars. Depending on the time of year, there are farmer’s markets craft shows out in the public areas. This is a great way to get to know the area and pick up some fantastic goods.
Overall, Villeray is there to relax and enjoy nature. There aren’t many museums or big attractions, but sometimes your best moments will come from enjoying time with your family in a beautiful part of the time.
Best place to stay in Villeray
Hotel Metropolitain. Address: 3400 Boulevard Crémazie Est, H2A 1A4 Montreal, Canada.
Where travel critics stay in Montreal
Want to know where travel critics from publishers like The New York Times, Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Lonely Planet stay in Montreal? Check out our overview of all recommended hotels, hostels and B&Bs in Montreal.
Budget
“Opened in 2011, Zero 1 contains 120 sleek, modern rooms and is within easy proximity to Chinatown.” — New York Times.
Address: 1 Boulevard René-Lévesque E, Montréal, QC H2X 3Z5, Canada.
Mid-range
“The modern new Hôtel Monville near Old Montreal has 269 loft-like rooms with window walls, a lobby papered in black and white photos of city landmarks, staff uniforms designed by the local brand Frank and Oak and room service delivery by robot.” — New York Times.
Address: 1041 Rue de Bleury, Montréal, QC H2Z 1M7, Canada.
Luxury
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Montreal.
“Resplendent after a multi-year renovation, “The Ritz” retains its standing as one of Montreal’s grandest hotels. It’s a new day, with a celebrity chef helming the lobby restaurant and a Dom Perignon bar in the Palm Court.” — Fodor’s.
Address: 1228 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, QC H3G 1H6, Canada.
FAQ: Montreal hotel tips
Looking for the best budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Montreal? Or maybe you’re a backpacker looking for an excellent hostel? Want to know which Montreal hotel serves a great breakfast? Here are the answers to all those and other questions about where to stay in Montreal.
What is the best budget hotel in Montreal?
If you’re looking for a cheap hotel in Montreal, then book Hotel Chateau de I’Argoat. It’s an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It’s in a good location, it’s been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also make sure you read our shortlist of the best cheap hotels in Montreal.
What is the best boutique hotel in Montreal?
You like some luxury but don’t like the famous chain hotels. If you’re looking for the best boutique hotel in Montreal, you should check out Hotel Gault. It’s a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts. Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Montreal, it’s a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
What is the best luxury hotel in Montreal?
If money isn’t a problem and you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Montreal, then go for Hotel Ritz Carlton. The hotel offers excellent service, it’s in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also make sure you read our shortlist of the best luxury hotels in Montreal, it’s a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
What is the best hostel in Montreal?
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm in Montreal? Check out M Montreal. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Montreal.
Which Montreal hotel serves great breakfast?
Try Auberge de la Fontaine if you’re looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in Montreal. It has excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.
How much does it cost to stay in a Montreal hotel?
For a 3-star hotel, you have to pay around $100 per night and for a 4-star hotel, you would be looking at $170 per night. If you’re after a luxury 5-star Montreal hotel then you can expect to pay around $270 per night.
Which Montreal hotel is the best for couples?
Try The Ritz Carlton Hotel if you’re looking for a romantic getaway in Montreal, it has some excellent recent customer reviews by couples.
Which Montreal hotels are the best for families?
If you’re looking to stay in Montreal with your family, then try The Ritz Carlton Hotel. The hotel has excellent review ratings by families.
Best time to visit Montreal
The best time to visit Montreal is during the late spring and early fall months, specifically from May to September.
These months showcase the city at its finest, with the perfect blend of pleasant weather and a myriad of exciting events and activities happening all around. During this time, the city comes alive with vibrant colors, bustling streets, and an infectious energy that is sure to make your trip unforgettable.
Montreal’s famous festivals, such as the Montreal World Film Festival, Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, and Osheaga Music and Arts Festival, all take place during these months. You’ll be immersed in a celebration of culture, art, and entertainment that is truly unique to Montreal!
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Mount Royal Park or the Montreal Botanical Garden, where you can witness the breathtaking beauty of nature in full bloom.
The warmer weather also means that you can take advantage of the city’s numerous outdoor patios, where you can sip on a refreshing beverage while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Best things to do in Montreal
There are plenty of things to do in Montreal and surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in and around Montreal:
History Walking Tour of Old Montreal
Visit Montreal’s historic centerpiece on this guided walking tour of Old Montreal. Discover the history, heritage, architecture and culture in this, the oldest area of the city of Montreal, dating back to New France. Price: $18. More info.
Montreal Old Port: La Grande Roue
Enjoy unbeatable views from 60-meters high, four seasons a year, on Canada’s largest observation wheel. Choose to upgrade to a private gondola or beat the crowd with the early bird option. Price: $20. More info.
Guided Scooter Sightseeing Tour in Montreal
Explore the city of Montreal on this scooter tour that takes travelers through back streets and past top attractions. Learn about interesting neighborhoods as you cruise along on an electric scooter. Price: $84. More info.
Deciding where to stay in Montreal
Let’s recap what we just learned in this article. We’ve covered the best areas of Montreal above. Now you can decide where to stay while visiting!
Top 5 neighborhoods to stay in Montreal
- Verdun
- Villeray
- Plateau Mont-Royal
- Saint-Henri
- Mile End
As you have seen in this travel guide, there are plenty of things to explore, and deciding where to stay in Montreal is important. Whether you stay in Verdun, Villeray, Plateau Mont-Royal, Saint-Henri or Mile End, all those neighborhoods are in good locations.
The atmosphere of the area, whether you travel for leisure or business, whether you travel with your family or friends, and proximity to the attractions you prefer to visit should probably be the deciding factors. Whatever your preference is, you’ll have a great time in Montreal.
Montreal overview
| 🏨 Hotel prices: | High |
| 🛏 Budget hotel: | $90 |
| 💑 Boutique hotel: | $160 |
| ⭐ 5-star hotel: | $250 |
| 🌎 Best area for first visit: | Plateau Mont-Royal |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Villeray |
| 💎 Best luxury hotel: | Ritz-Carlton Montreal |
| 👫 Best boutique hotel: | Hotel Gault |
| 💰 Best cheap hotel: | Hotel Chateau de I’Argoat |
| 🎒 Best hostel: | HI Montreal |
More Montreal tips
See our other articles about Montreal:
