Hotel Le St. James, Montreal
More photosHotel Le St. James in Montreal is a landmark of historic grandeur, famously housed in what was originally the Merchant’s Bank building, dating back to 1870. Located in the heart of Old Montreal, this architectural gem is renowned for its preservation of 19th-century elegance, which designer Jacques Bouchard expertly enhanced with sophisticated, classic luxury interiors.
The property is filled with unique character. One of its most fascinating features is the hotel spa, which is located in what was once the bank’s massive, secure vault. Guests could enjoy a serene retreat in a space that previously held the city’s fortunes. Each of the hotel’s rooms and suites was individually curated, ensuring that no two spaces felt exactly the same.
Its location places you in the middle of Montreal’s most atmospheric neighborhood. You are within walking distance of the breathtaking Notre-Dame Basilica, famous for its intricate interior and blue-gold vaulted ceiling. Also nearby are the cobblestone charm of Saint-Paul Street and the bustling activities of the Old Port.
Although the hotel permanently closed its doors to the public in 2022, its legacy as a pinnacle of Montreal hospitality remains. The building continues to be admired as a masterpiece of the city’s heritage architecture, standing as a beautiful reminder of the golden age of commerce and design in Old Montreal.
Expert reviews
“In a word, gorgeous. Montréal’s surge of designer hotels spans the spectrum from minimalist to ornate, and Le St-James sits squarely at the ornate end of the range.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Montreal.
“Civility reigns at this undisputed queen of the Grande Dame hotels. Stately and calm, the Saint James is where world leaders, moguls, and family dynasties meet to relax in dignified luxury.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Montreal.
What guests liked
- Friendly staff
- Excellent Wifi
- Great location
- Comfortable beds
Location
Recent guest reviews
Other Montreal hotels
Hotel Le Germain, Montreal
Hôtel Le Germain Montréal is a stylish boutique hotel perfectly situated in the city’s bustling downtown core. Originally built in 1967—the same iconic year as Montreal’s World Expo—the building embraces its mid-century heritage through a sophisticated lens. The recent renovation, led by the architectural firm LemayMichaud and interior designer Zébulon Perron, masterfully blends original 1960s-inspired aesthetics with modern, minimalist comfort.
New York Times + 3 more“Hôtel Le Germain, in a refurbished 1960s office tower, emphasizes that era’s design in large, quiet rooms with bentwood tables, exposed concrete, peekaboo showers and clear acrylic bubble chairs hanging from the ceiling.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Montreal
Hotel Nelligan, Montreal
Hotel Nelligan is a stunning boutique hotel located in the heart of Old Montreal, housed within four historic buildings dating back to the 1850s. Named after the celebrated Quebecois poet Émile Nelligan, the hotel honors his legacy with framed poems displayed throughout its corridors. The architecture beautifully preserves the past, showcasing original stone and brick walls that contrast perfectly with the property's contemporary, elegant interiors.
Fodors + 1 more“There’s a cultivated air of refinement echoing through this landmark, named after Québec’s most passionate poet, Émile Nelligan. The hotel marries Old World charm with a sleek, updated sensibility.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Montreal.
Queen Elizabeth Hotel, Montreal
The Queen Elizabeth is a historic landmark in downtown Montreal, originally opened in 1958. Designed by Canadian National Railway chief architect George Drummond, the hotel was built directly above Central Station, requiring 160 concrete pylons to dampen the rumble of passing trains. At its debut, it was a marvel of modern engineering, featuring some of the first escalators and air-conditioned rooms in North America.
New York Times + 2 more“The Queen Elizabeth is a 950-room downtown stalwart with rooms furnished in a mod-flavored style, including a very pink Barbie Dream Suite (with a disco ball). Visitors taking the restarted Amtrak Adirondack service from New York City may appreciate the hotel’s location next to the train station.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Montreal.
Warwick Le Crystal, Montreal
Warwick Le Crystal is a stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Montreal. Opened in 2008 as "Hotel Le Crystal," it holds the distinction of being one of the city's first independent condo-hotels, offering guests a residential feel combined with high-end amenities. It joined the prestigious Warwick Hotels & Resorts collection in 2023.
New York Times + 1 more“With 131 suites, downtown’s Hotel Le Crystal offers anti-winter pampering perks like an indoor saltwater pool and an outdoor year-round rooftop hot tub, both with city views. Some executive suites and penthouses have operational fireplaces.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Montreal.