Montreal Hotels

Montreal is a vibrant city in the province of Quebec, Canada, known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and significant economic role. Montreal has a population is approximately 1.766 million, making it the second-most populous city in Canada and the largest city in Quebec. The metropolitan area has around 4.3 million residents.

Montreal’s blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and modern vibrancy makes it a notable metropolis in Canada and an attractive destination for residents and tourists.

Things To Know Before Going To Montreal?

• The city is a bilingual city, primarily French-speaking, but English is widely used.
• Montreal is famous for its unique food scene.
• With over 120 different cultural communities, Montreal is a mosaic of ethnicities.
• The city boasts an extensive underground network known as the “RESO” of La Ville Souterraine.
• Montreal has a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries theaters, and public art installations.
• Winter can be harsh with gravy snowfall, while summers are warm and humid.
• The Montreal Metro system is efficient and can get you almost anywhere in the city.
• When using public transport, it’s common to give up your seat for those in need.
• During summer months, mosquitoes can be quite prevalent.

Where Is Montreal?

Montreal is located in the southern part of the province of Quebec, Canada. It is located on the Island of Montreal at the confluence of the St. Lawrence and Ottawa rivers.

Where To Stay In Montreal?

Here is a table with Montreal's top tourist areas, what they are best for, the top attractions in each area, and the average trip cost:

Best Hotels In Montreal

Here is a table featuring some of the best hotels in Montreal, categorized by district, affordability, and reasons to stay:

Top Montreal Attractions

Here’s a bullet list of the best attractions in Montreal:

• Notre-Dame Basilica: A stunning Gothic Revival church known for its breathtaking stained glass windows and rich history. Guided tours and the multimedia show Aura are highlights.
• Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal): The historic district featuring cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, and landmarks like Place Jacques-Cartier, perfect for strolls and immersing in the city's history.
• Mount Royal Park: An expansive urban park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, offering panoramic views of the city from its summit. Popular for outdoor activities year-round, including hiking and picnicking.
• St. Joseph's Oratory: The largest church in Canada, known for its impressive dome and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the basilica, climb the steps for great views, and learn about its religious significance.
• Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: One of Canada's most prominent art museums, featuring diverse collections from classical to contemporary art. A cultural hub for art enthusiasts.
• Place des Festivals: Located in the Quartier des Spectacles, this public square hosts major events and festivals throughout the year, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival.
• Pointe-à-Callière Museum: Situated at the birthplace of Montreal, this museum focuses on archaeology and history, showcasing multimedia exhibits that highlight the city's evolution over centuries.
• La Grande Roue de Montréal: A giant Ferris wheel located in the Old Port that offers stunning views of the city from 60 meters up—a fun experience for visitors of all ages.
• Parc Jean-Drapeau: A recreational area on Saint Helen's Island featuring an amusement park (La Ronde), beaches, and walking trails—ideal for outdoor activities and family fun.
• The Underground City (La Ville Souterraine): A vast network of interconnected tunnels housing shops, restaurants, and metro stations, providing a unique way to navigate the city, especially during winter months.

Is Montreal Safe For Tourists?

Montreal is generally considered a safe city for tourists. The city has one of the lowest crime rates among major Canadian cities, making it a safe destination for travelers. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, is the most common crime but remains relatively rare. The public transportation system is known for its safety and reliability. Montreal is particularly favorable for solo and female travelers.

Is Montreal Expensive To Visit?

Montreal offers a range of experiences at varying costs, making it affordable for different types of travelers. A trip to the city typically costs between $83 to $540 per day for an individual, with a mid-range budget averaging around $210 per day. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and activities.

Accommodation Costs: Hotel prices vary significantly:

• Budget hotels range from $110 to $125 per night.
• Mid-range hotels average around $186 to $214 per night.
• Luxury hotels can start from about $334 per night.

Food Expenses: Dining costs can also vary:

• Casual meals typically range from $10 to $20, while sit-down restaurants may charge between $20 and $45 per meal

Currency Of Montreal, Canada

The currency used in Montreal, Canada, is the Canadian dollar. 

Languages Spoken In Montreal

Montreal is a bilingual city, with both English and French as official languages. French is the most widely spoken language, but English is also widely understood and used, especially in the business and tourism sectors. Additionally, there are smaller populations of immigrants who speak other languages, such as Italian, Spanish, and Greek.

How Many Days Are Enough To Visit Montreal?

Three days is ideal for first-time visitors wanting to capture the essence of Montreal. For those wishing to delve deeper into the city's offerings or explore beyond its borders, extending your stay to four or more days is advisable.

When Is The Best Time To Stay In Montreal?

The best time to stay in Montreal varies depending on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. During the summer for vibrant city life or early fall for beautiful scenery and comfortable weather. Spring is also appealing if you prefer fewer crowds, while winter is perfect for those who enjoy snowy landscapes and seasonal festivities.

What To Pack For Montreal Trip?

When packing for a trip to Montreal, it’s essential to consider the season and activities you plan to engage in.

Winter (December to February):

• Heavy winter coat
• Thermal layers (tops and bottoms)
• Waterproof boots
• Warm hat, gloves, and scarf
• Sweaters

Spring (March to May) / Fall (September to November):

• Light sweaters and long-sleeve shirts
• Waterproof jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes or boots
• Scarf and gloves for cooler days

Summer (June to August):

• T-shirts and short-sleeve shirts
• Shorts or lightweight pants
• Swimsuit (if planning to swim)
• Light jacket for cooler evenings
• Comfortable sandals or sneakers

Toiletries

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner
• Sunscreen (important year-round)
• Deodorant and personal hygiene products
• Makeup and remover (if applicable)
• Hairbrush and styling products
• Medication (including pain relievers)

Electronics

• Camera (if not using your phone)
• Power bank for charging on the go
• Travel pillow for flights or long journeys

Miscellaneous

• Snacks and a reusable water bottle
• Hand sanitizer and tissues
• Notebook or book for leisure reading
• Blister plasters for walking

Montreal Foods

Montreal’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, showcasing a mix of traditional Quebecois dishes and international flavors. Here is a guide to some must-try foods and popular dining spots in the city: 

• Poutine: a quintessential Quebec dish made of crispy fries topped with cheese curds smothered in gravy.
• Tourtiere: a traditional meat pie typically filled with minced pork, veal, or beef, seasoned with spices.
• Smoked Meat Sandwich: a deli classic featuring cured brisket served on rye bread with mustard.
• Montreal-style Bagels: smaller, denser bagels boiled in honey-sweetened water and baked in wood-fried ovens.
• Pounding Chomeur: a dessert made of cake batter topped with syrup that creates a gooey sauce while baking.
• Cretons: a pork spread seasoned with spices, often enjoyed on toast for breakfast.
• Tarte Au Sucre (Sugar Pie): a rich dessert made from a buttery pastry filled with cream and maple syrup.

Popular Restaurants in Montreal:

Nightlife In Montreal

Montreal is known for its vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, offering various options to suit various tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best places to experience Montreal's nightlife:

Bars and Pubs

• Crescent Street: Known for its lively atmosphere and popular bars like Brutopia, Sir Winston Churchill Pub, and McKibbin's Irish Pub.
• St. Laurent Boulevard: Home to various bars and clubs, including Bar Biftek, Jupiter, Blue Dog, and B-Side.
• Plateau Mont-Royal: Features trendy bars like Distillerie, Bar St. Sulpice, and Baldwin Barmacie, known for their great terraces and lively crowds.

Clubs and Dance Venues

• Muzique: One of Montreal's elite clubbing destinations, known for its pulsating beats and luxurious interiors.
• New City Gas: An expansive venue that hosts international DJs and features magnificent light shows.
• Stereo: A popular club where basslines command the dance floor and the crowd pulsates with shared energy.

Live Music Venues

• Casa del Popolo: A legendary Mile End venue that showcases indie and local acts.
• Sala Rossa: Another Mile End institution known for its live music scene.
• L'Escogriffe Bar Spectacle: A cozy Plateau mainstay that hosts some of the city's best local talent.

Specialty Venues

• Arcade MTL: A bar where you can relive your video game glory days while enjoying a beer.
• Bord'Elle: A blend of burlesque and elegant clubbing, offering a grand spectacle every night.
• Cloakroom Bar: A stylish speakeasy-style bar featuring specialty cocktails in a cozy, dimly lit space.