Montreal Canada 6 Day Itinerary

Montreal: A 6-Day Itinerary

Welcome to Montreal! This vibrant city offers a unique blend of European charm and North American energy. From historic architecture to trendy neighborhoods and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone.

Things to Know:

  • Language: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
  • Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
  • Best Time to Visit: Montreal shines in all seasons! Summer offers festivals and outdoor activities, while fall boasts stunning foliage. Spring brings blooming gardens, and winter transforms the city into a snowy wonderland.

Transportation:

  • STM (Société de transport de Montréal): Excellent public transportation system with metro, buses, and commuter trains. Purchase an OPUS card for easy access.
  • BIXI Bike Sharing: Rent bikes to explore the city at your own pace.
  • Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance, especially in the downtown core.

Where to Stay:

  • Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal): Charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
    • Hotel recommendations: Hotel Bonaparte, Auberge Saint-Gabriel, Le Place d’Armes Hôtel
  • Downtown: Lively area with shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.
    • Hotel recommendations: Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, Hôtel Birks Montreal, Hyatt Regency Montreal
  • Plateau Mont-Royal: Trendy neighborhood known for its cafes, boutiques, and nightlife.

Day 1: Old Montreal Charm

  • Morning: Explore the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal. Visit Notre-Dame Basilica (breathtaking interior), Place Jacques-Cartier (historic square with street performers), and the Pointe-à-Callière Museum of Archaeology & History.
  • Afternoon: Lunch at Le Bremner for fresh seafood or Schwartz’s Deli for Montreal smoked meat. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Old Montreal for a romantic experience.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Chez Garde Manger, a popular spot known for its creative dishes and cozy atmosphere.

Day 2: Mount Royal Views & Museums

  • Morning: Hike or take the bus to the top of Mount Royal for panoramic views of the city. Visit the lookout point at Beaver Lake.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) or the McCord Museum, showcasing Canadian history and culture.
  • Evening: Indulge in a delicious meal at Joe Beef, a renowned restaurant known for its inventive menu and rustic ambiance.

Day 3: Underground City & Botanical Gardens

  • Morning: Discover Montreal’s Underground City (RÉSO), a network of tunnels connecting shops, restaurants, and metro stations. Explore the unique boutiques and grab lunch in this subterranean world.
  • Afternoon: Escape to the Montreal Botanical Garden and wander through themed gardens like the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, and First Nations Garden.

Day 4: Mile End Hipster Vibes & Food Tour

  • Morning: Visit the vibrant Mile End neighborhood. Explore independent bookstores, trendy boutiques, and art galleries.
  • Afternoon: Join a food tour to sample Montreal’s culinary delights. Savor bagels at St-Viateur Bagel, poutine at La Banquise, and other local specialties.
  • Evening: Catch a live music performance at Casa del Popolo or enjoy drinks at the buzzing Mile End bars.

Day 5: Olympic Park & Biodome Adventure

  • Morning: Explore the Olympic Park, home to the iconic stadium used for the 1976 Summer Olympics. Climb the tower for breathtaking city views.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Biodome, an indoor ecosystem showcasing four different environments: a tropical rainforest, Laurentian forest, St. Lawrence marine environment, and Arctic tundra.

Day 6: Farewell Brunch & Shopping

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Café Olimpico, known for its authentic Italian espresso and delicious pastries.
  • Afternoon: Do some last-minute shopping on Sainte-Catherine Street or in the Eaton Centre mall.

Tips:

  • Purchase an MTL Card for discounts on attractions and transportation.
  • Dress in layers as Montreal weather can be unpredictable.
  • Learn a few basic French phrases to enhance your experience.
  • Be sure to try poutine, smoked meat sandwiches, and bagels – Montreal specialties!

Enjoy your incredible journey through Montreal!