Where to stay in Montreal: the best areas for your trip

In short: for charm, stay in Old Montreal. For convenience and shopping, Downtown; for local life, the Plateau Mont-Royal or Mile End; for festivals, the Quartier des Spectacles. The metro links the essentials, and in winter the underground network keeps you out of the cold.

Understanding Montreal in two minutes

Montreal spreads across an island at the foot of Mount Royal. On the St Lawrence River lie Old Montreal and the Old Port; just above is Downtown with its towers, connected by a vast underground pedestrian network. To the east are the Quartier des Spectacles and the Latin Quarter; to the north, the Plateau Mont-Royal and then Mile End. The metro serves all these areas. French is the main language, and many locals also speak English.

The right area for your trip

Charm and first visit: Old Montreal

Cobbled streets, stone buildings, Notre-Dame Basilica and the Old Port: Old Montreal is the most romantic area, with many boutique hotels. Quieter on weekday evenings, very lively in summer.

Practical and shopping: Downtown

Around Rue Sainte-Catherine, department stores, museums (including the Museum of Fine Arts) and access to the underground network: Downtown is ideal for a practical stay, especially in winter.

Local life: the Plateau Mont-Royal

Houses with colourful outdoor staircases, cafés, terraces and shops: the Plateau is the very image of Montreal, at the foot of Mount Royal Park.

Atmosphere and cafés: Mile End

Famous for its bagels, cafés and artists, Mile End is creative and laid-back, ideal for solo travellers or a longer stay.

Festivals: the Quartier des Spectacles

At the heart of cultural life, the Quartier des Spectacles hosts many summer festivals, often with free outdoor shows.

On a budget: the Latin Quarter

Around Rue Saint-Denis, the student Latin Quarter has accommodation that is often more affordable, well connected by metro.

Getting to Montreal

From Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, an express bus runs to Downtown around the clock; taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available. VIA Rail trains arrive at Central Station. For timetables and fares, check the official websites. A private transfer takes you straight to your hotel.

Our booking tips

1. Book early for summer, festival season, and for the Grand Prix.
2. Look at the total price: taxes are added to the displayed rate.
3. In winter, choose a hotel near the metro or connected to the underground network.
4. Check for air conditioning in summer and heating in winter, as temperatures vary a lot.
5. Choose free cancellation when it is offered.

Once you’re there

To plan the rest of your trip (Québec City, Charlevoix, Tadoussac), see our guide Travel in Canada. The areas and useful services are on our Montreal page.