Your ultimate Montreal travel guide

Often called as “The Paris of Canada”, Montreal is the second largest city of Canada after Toronto. The historial and the ultra-modern buildings blend seamlessly in this city ; which makes its own unique charm. There are so many things you can do in this iconic city: from strolling through Old Montreal, visiting the Mont-Royal…etc. When I visited Montreal last year (in summer 2018), I quickly became intoxicated with this city’s captivating and creative vibe.  So, here’s your ultimate Montreal travel guide!

Where to sleep

Hotel le Roberval

This is where I stayed during this whole trip! And I absolutely recommend it to you. Located only a few steps from Berri-UQAM metro station, this hotel offers very clean and comfortable accommodations, furnished with fully equipped kitchenettes. You will love it even more if I told that this hotel is located in the heart of Montreal, which means it will take you only a quick easy walk to most attractions including the shops of St. Catherine Street. In addition, the price is so reasonable.

Hôtel Gouverneur Montréal

This hotel is a little bit pricey than the first one, but it is literally located next to Berri-UQAM metro station. Moreover, The Gouverneur Hotel offers a sauna, a gym and an indoor pool. Also located in the heart of Montreal, there are a lot of shops, restaurants and supermarkets near it that you will enjoy exploring.

Where to go

Montreal Botanical Gardens

Montreal Botanical Gardens is the first thing I’ve visited once I got to Montreal. It is the perfect place to enjoy mother-nature and wander around these world-class gardens. It is such a beautiful calming place for contemplation and relaxation, especially if you went in the morning.

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Notre-Dame Basilica

Built in 1656, Notre-Dame Basilica is the oldest Catholic Church in Montreal. It is famous for its incredible interior and its detailed stained glass windows that recount Montreal’s history. Just WOW!

Old Montreal

I absolutely forbid you to visit Old-Montreal by car because it will ruin the whole Old-World experience. Instead, just walk and admire every single stone-faced building. And trust me; you will be amazed by the charm, the history of the most scenic streets in Old Montreal.

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Ste-Catherine Street

If you enjoy shopping, well this is “The Place” to go. Ste. Catherine is one of the largest streets in Canada that has access to over 1,200 shops. You can find there some designer boutiques such Antonio Ortega Couture and Marciano. And, a lot of fashionista’s shops like Zara, H&M, Urban Outfitters, Victoria’s Secret, Mac, Aldo, Gap, Guess, Swatch…and the list goes on.

The underground city

Because Montreal is a cold city, a whole complex of indoor shopping has evolved. The Underground City is 19 miles of tunnels connecting over 60 commercial complexes and residences. There are 120 above ground entrances and once below you can access hotels, shopping malls, banks, corporate headquarters, museums, university buildings, seven metro stations, two commuter train stations. In 2004, the Underground City was rebranded and given the name RESO. It is literally the biggest place I’ve ever shopped in. (You can get lost in there, I’m just saying). So, if you go to the Underground city, be ready to shop ’til you drop and get lost too (unless you have a map).

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