48 Hours in Montréal
This Canadian metropolis is so much more than a taste of Europe in North America
Montréal, Canada, is often referred to as a North American city that feels a lot like Europe. Its neighborhood of Vieux-Montréal has the narrow-cobbled streets common to many cities across the pond, and the entire region provides an immersive French language experience.
Comparisons and familiarity aside, there are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Montréal, from festivals and food to architecture and culture. Here are the best things to do, should you find a free weekend to spend in the largest city in the province of Quebec (and the second-largest city in all of Canada).
Things to do in Montréal on a Friday night
Old Montréal comes alive in the evening and will make an excellent first impression on night one. Make dinner reservations at Modavie or Restaurant Bonaparte; both serve classic French fare with the former offering a more energetic atmosphere and live music.
If you can, arrive early to browse nearby art galleries and stroll along the waterfront, which boasts impressive skyline views from Alexandra Pier at dusk. But be sure to hit up The Coldroom post-meal. This hidden speakeasy touts a menu of innovative craft cocktails, though bartenders are always willing and eager to concoct drinks that match your palate’s preferences.
Things to do in Montréal on a Saturday
Start the day with coffee at Le Petit Dep. Aside from a caffeine pep, the cafe's retail section sells dozens of gourmet products from more than 50 local artisans.
Just around the block towards Place d'Armes will begin your Notre-Dame Basilica tour, which you can book in advance to avoid lines. Montréal is home to many churches that are worth exploring, but Notre Dame is its most iconic and a must-see during your visit.
After gawking at stained glass and impressive wooden arches, meander towards La Cave A Manger's basement bakery to grab breakfast and people-watch from its lively patio.
Next door is Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, another church that demands a visit, if only for its steeple that visitors can climb for sweeping views of the port. From here, it’s time to venture to Montréal's modern downtown district, home of the Museum of Fine Arts. Plan for a minimum of three hours, as its massive collection spans multiple buildings.
After an early dinner, join the 8 p.m Old Montréal at Twilight Walking Tour to learn about the city's historical roots and how they influenced the city you see today.
Things to do in Montréal on a Sunday
McGill University kicks off this day with a leisurely stroll at Mount Royal, the city’s most recognizable mountain behind the college campus. Enjoy its vast park until you reach Kondiaronk Belvedere, the lookout point in front of Mount Royal Chalet. This vantage point stretches over the expansive city below and will give you a sense of Montréal's overall size, plus some postcard-worthy photographs.
From the chalet, take the path towards the park's north end. You'll pass other lookout areas as well as Croix du Mont-Royal, a 102-foot-tall steel cross. Continue descending from the park and you'll come across a monument dedicated to Sir George-Etienne Cartier, another landmark worthy of a snapshot.
At this part of the journey, you can call for a rideshare from the monument or challenge yourself to continue north. The neighborhood of Little Portugal is straight ahead, and to the west, you’ll stumble upon Mile End. Both are culinary meccas that feature two of Montréal's best-known foods.
The first is a smoked meat sandwich, typically brisket on rye bread, which 1920s deli Schwartz's has perfected. The second is a classic bagel from Fairmount Bagel Bakery or St-Viateur Bagel. The latter's flagship location even offers a view of the kitchen for hungry patrons to watch the bagels as they’re made.
Retreat to Old Port by 2 p.m. to redeem prepurchased tickets for a narrated boat ride on the St. Lawrence River. Its ship, the AML Cavalier Maxim, offers indoor and outdoor seating, plus a full bar for afternoon libations.
Should relaxation take precedence for the remainder of the day, visit the history museum and archaeology site Pointe-a-Calliere for a walk-through at your pace and leisure. Alternatively, book a massage at Bota Bota, a uniquely constructed spa with a water circuit and restaurant that floats on board a former ferry.
Before You Jet
Those fortunate enough to find free time on their final morning should squeeze in one more Montréal staple: a stop at Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal. Though the awe-inspiring church is worth the trip alone, its Oratory Museum really wows with numerous nativity scenes portrayed through the eyes of cultures near and far. It’s a wonderful reminder of Montréal’s local diversity and its ability to attract visitors from all over the world.