Old Montreal
Old Montreal
4.5
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
Old Montreal is a historic neighborhood in Canada with a charming Parisian flair. Be transported back in time as you wander down the cobblestone streets and admire the stunning architecture. Check out the Bonsecours Market for some unique shopping, stroll along St. Paul Street, and visit the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal to admire the incredible stained glass windows. You can also head to the old port for a Ferris wheel ride, zipline, or cruise. Take a walking tour to learn more about its history or a ghost tour to explore the neighborhood after dark. Visit in the winter to see the beautiful holiday decorations. – Tripadvisor
Duration: More than 3 hours
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Top ways to experience Old Montreal
The area
Neighborhood: Ville-Marie
How to get there
- Place-d'Armes • 4 min walk
- Square-Victoria-OACI • 9 min walk
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
3,147 within 3 miles
Attractions
495 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- sealrockerPortland, Oregon914 contributionsDining and Shopping districtWe visited on a fantastic sunny spring evening. The area was bustling with outdoor diners and shoppers. We just walked around and looked at several shops. We didn’t have a guide to help us understand what we were looking at so we probably missed a lot. The pedestrian only streets were niceVisited May 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten May 6, 2023
- Liz FWooster, Ohio78 contributionsElegant ArchitectureI loved Old Montreal because of the old architect We enjoyed the great details in the buildings. Some of the buildings can be accessed without a fee such as the Bank of Montreal. I will warn people, I don’t think you can visualize the Notre Dame without a fee. The thing that I will really stress is that food in Canada is very pricey so make sure you pack accordingly.Visited June 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten June 9, 2023
- Thomas VOakland, California17,104 contributionsThe Historic Old QuarterThis is the part of town that you have to see because it is the oldest that is still present. So lots of historic buildings with good descriptions on plaques in front. Museums, old churches, charming old streets where you need to wander. And some of the best restaurants in town.Visited June 2023Written June 17, 2023
- SEIA2DC35 contributionsBeautiful, heavily tourist areaA beautiful part of the city, I only gave it 4 instead of 5 stars because we went to Quebec City first and this just can’t compare to that. However, it’s a fun area to explore, particularly if you like shopping and art galleries. Plenty of restaurants and places to grab a drink, also lots of souvenir shops and tourist kitsch. Partially pedestrian-only which is helpful. Note that it’s entirely cobblestone and part is a steep hill so be ready to navigate that. We spent a few hours wandering around, checking out the Old Port and took a boat tour. A must do area, but recommend checking out other great (and less touristy) areas of the city as well.Visited June 2023Traveled with familyWritten June 25, 2023
- Malcolm GAustin, Texas52 contributionsPut this on your bucket listVery walkable and interesting area. Many historic buildings lovely streets and squares. Many good cafes and restaurants. Try a beer and meal watching the people from the outdoor tables in Place Jacques-Cartier. We used Pub John Michael on the corner beneath Nelson good food drinks and service plus nearby tuneful busker to entertain usVisited June 2023Written July 3, 2023
- DimburrAlbury, Australia77 contributionsGorgeous historic area mixed with a slightly tacky tourist vibe.The Old Port area around the streets is really charming. But there is a slightly side-show feel the closer you get to the water. If you like the architecture then stay on the main area, but for kids the waterfront is probably entertaining. It is also the site for the ferry to Ile St Helene, where the Biosphere is located. It's worth it to take the ferry one way to the island then take the Metro back. As a tourist it wasn't intuitive to know the metro goes there.Visited July 2023Traveled soloWritten July 8, 2023
- Justin BCalgary, Canada298 contributionsBeautiful City, Rich HistoryOld Montreal was the perfect destination for our conference. It is a place where history and modernity coexist, offering something for everyone. I was impressed by the diversity and quality of the food options, ranging from traditional French bistros to trendy cafes and ethnic restaurants. I also appreciated the walkability of the area, which allowed me to discover its many attractions and landmarks, such as the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Place d’Armes and the Bonsecours Market. One of my favorite activities was running along the port, where I could enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful views. Old Montreal is a gem that I would love to visit again!Visited July 2023Traveled on businessWritten July 10, 2023
- sueq788Hilton Head, South Carolina4 contributionsLove Old Montreal.So much to see and do. Loads of shops and restaurants. Several small town squares to sit and relax. During the Jazz Festival they had live music in the square across from the NOTRE Dame Basilica. Every hour a different musician would perform. All free. Down by the river there are vendors and food trucks or you can stroll by the river to watch the boats. We found the people to be very friendly.Visited July 2023Written July 12, 2023
- wayne BMaryborough, Australia32 contributionsBeautiful walk , great meal.We took a short ferry trip across the St. Lawrence River to Old Montreal and it was a pleasant ride taking in the views. Once there we entered the old port area and made our way around the streets. We visited the Notre-Dame Basilica and checked out the historic area in and around Old Montreal. We thoroughly enjoyed our time taking in the history of these old buildings. We found a really great place to eat in Crêperie Chez Suzette, we sat at a table near an open window and enjoyed an amazing meal and drinks. Then it was time to catch our ferry back.Visited June 2023Written July 14, 2023
- Frank CSarasota, Florida439 contributionsA must see in MontrealStay on streets parallel to Waterfront, one or two blocks, no more. Go around sunset, not too late , not too early. Many shops and restaurants. We choose rooftop one, was excellent. Lots of people watching. The buildings are great and part of old History. Don't forget there are areas underground also!Visited July 2023Written July 19, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Popular mentions
4.5
13,835 reviews
Excellent
8,527
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1,007
Poor
178
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debrakgrose
Port Perry, Canada132 contributions
Dec 2019
Although only a tiny portion of Montreal, the Old Montreal (la Vieux) had plenty of charm and sights to offer. The old section was quiet and friendly, & some buildings were decked out for Christmas by our visit. A lovely area to explore at anytime and even nicer at Christmas. Christmas lights twinkle.
There was a movie being shot on some of the smaller cobbled stone side streets set in the 1930's and 40's. amazing all the work it takes for one part of the movie to look vintage. But Old Montreal was the perfect location to dress up so actors can travel back in time.
Old buildings, cute shops, lots of nice looking restaurants, and all that history. You can certainly spend a day here walking around the streets, Place Jacques Cartier, the river views, and don't miss the Notre Dame Basilica which is one of the world's most beautiful churches.
It's Old World charm at it's finest!
There was a movie being shot on some of the smaller cobbled stone side streets set in the 1930's and 40's. amazing all the work it takes for one part of the movie to look vintage. But Old Montreal was the perfect location to dress up so actors can travel back in time.
Old buildings, cute shops, lots of nice looking restaurants, and all that history. You can certainly spend a day here walking around the streets, Place Jacques Cartier, the river views, and don't miss the Notre Dame Basilica which is one of the world's most beautiful churches.
It's Old World charm at it's finest!
Written January 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ivo G
Montreal, Canada49 contributions
Oct 2019
The city has put a lot of money into revitalizing this popular tourist area. Games for kids, ferris wheel for city views, loads of good restaurants, etc. Something for everybody. Parking is awful and the city doesn't help, the lots are very expensive.
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eriq T
Montreal, Canada6 contributions
Apr 2019
One of few remaining really old neighbourhoods in North America is great for walking but the streets and summer crowds don't lend themselves to driving around here. The area is a short walk from downtown. Rent a bike if you really want to zip around.
The shops are touristy, it's a tourist area, so if you're looking for shopping bargains go north on St Laurent and enjoy. The cafes I've been to were all fine, nothing that exciting, but the area's appeal is just to walk around and take in the ancient (by Canadian standards) buildings or hang by the water. There are events by the water all summer, some freer than others. Good to spend time with family or kids without having to spend pay admission or spend large on food. When it's quiet, Old Montreal is enchanting. You can feel some ghostly vibe walking through the squares between the empty streets. It's nice even when it's busy, but it's awesome when you're alone (or together alone) down there.
The shops are touristy, it's a tourist area, so if you're looking for shopping bargains go north on St Laurent and enjoy. The cafes I've been to were all fine, nothing that exciting, but the area's appeal is just to walk around and take in the ancient (by Canadian standards) buildings or hang by the water. There are events by the water all summer, some freer than others. Good to spend time with family or kids without having to spend pay admission or spend large on food. When it's quiet, Old Montreal is enchanting. You can feel some ghostly vibe walking through the squares between the empty streets. It's nice even when it's busy, but it's awesome when you're alone (or together alone) down there.
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Crystal S
Overland Park, KS235 contributions
Jul 2022
If you're staying in Montreal for the first time I definitely recommend staying in/near this area. We stayed in an area technically called Old Port which is right next to what I think is the official Old Montreal. There's just so many beautiful old buildings here, it's super walkable and has tons of little bars, restaurants, boutiques, etc. It is a little touristy and pricey but it's still totally worth it.
Written August 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
M S
New York City, NY14 contributions
Oct 2022 • Business
This was my first trip to Montreal and I made it a point to go to Old town. I was not disappointed. Notre Dame is beautiful. I attended a mass in advance of a ticket that I had purchased to see the cathedral as I wanted to worship and hear their renowned organist. Amazing... At any rate, it was wonderful both inside and out as there are musicians surrounding the area and a lot of beautiful architecture to see. I had a lot of fun at Chococina, an amazing chocolate store. The owner is personable and I enjoyed every minute of it. Everything he suggested was on point. I then grabbed a chocolate croissant and tea from a nearby cafe and sat in front of the cathedral to listen to Ex Machina, a magnificent cellist. A wonderful day.
Written October 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Roberta L
1 contribution
Aug 2022
There is a great self-guided tour available in Old Montreal. The old buildings are beautiful. We spent 2 and 1/2 days exploring the area and its museums and could have even spent more time there. The Chateau Ramezay was a fascinating little museum, a great bargain, and helped understand Montreal in its early days!
Written August 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
alittlebitofBS
Tustin, CA28 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
Did a guided walking tour of Old Quebec this morning; our guide was Sandrine Dubois, dressed in colonial attire. In a very engaging manner she gave 20 of us a very informative history of North America. Learned a lot...
Written October 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AlexYYZ
Toronto, Canada199 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Went over for the weekend; spent a few hours walking around and eating in a couple of restaurants. The area is nice and there a re many shops to drop by. The parking can be tricky but there are a lot of spots in the alleys and side streets to leave your car; you need to pay and take your ticket with you - just remember to use the right number (see picture) and find a machine to pay (there are only a few so you may need to walk a block or two until you find one)
Written February 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
IAl
Toronto, Canada232 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
What more can I say about this place that hasn’t been said already. It is beautiful, packed with history of the earliest days of Montreal (from the 1640’s onwards), it’s lively, it’s walkable, it’s scenic, and there’s tons of things to do and see.
Particular areas of note are Rue St.Paul, which is the oldest street in Montreal. Place d’armes which is right by the grand Notre Dame Basilica and is always a lively place day and night (there are often free entertainment acts on this public square). Also, don’t forget to spend a lot of time on the Old Port area, which is packed with summer activities and is immensely walkable and bike-able. And from the Old Port area, head uphill to the historic Place de Jacques Cartier square, les Marches des Bonsecours or the gardens in Chateau Ramezay (the gardens are free to enter).
Particular areas of note are Rue St.Paul, which is the oldest street in Montreal. Place d’armes which is right by the grand Notre Dame Basilica and is always a lively place day and night (there are often free entertainment acts on this public square). Also, don’t forget to spend a lot of time on the Old Port area, which is packed with summer activities and is immensely walkable and bike-able. And from the Old Port area, head uphill to the historic Place de Jacques Cartier square, les Marches des Bonsecours or the gardens in Chateau Ramezay (the gardens are free to enter).
Written August 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Footprints767952
450 contributions
Jan 2020 • Solo
Visited Montreal many times and would always love to walk around in Vieux Montreal cobblestones streets, browsing inside the art galleries, or little shopping for souvenirs, regardless the Quebec winter.
Admired historic architectures, whether be buildings in Parisan, British or in general European style; indeed mosaic, Canadian culture has manifested.
Old Montreal makes distinction and has allure.
Admired historic architectures, whether be buildings in Parisan, British or in general European style; indeed mosaic, Canadian culture has manifested.
Old Montreal makes distinction and has allure.
Written February 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
l0vet0travel4ever
Mississauga, Canada126 contributions
Would a day be enough to walk around old momtreal? Or should allot at least 2 days to see other sites
Blair B
73 contributions
yes a full day would give you access to both the historic streets and shops with a few of the inside views of historic places. however there are a number of museums that are well worth seeing in the Old Port so two days would be better.
Can you use it rent mobility scooter in old Montreal?
Carol T
Montreal, Canada96 contributions
Yes you can.
Justin B
Halifax, Canada3 contributions
How did you book the horse drawn carriage? I can't find much online in way of reservations or bookings.
Thanks!
Idefix_u_Obelix
Freigericht, Germany103 contributions
No, I did not. And I doubt that this is available in winter.
Rodrigo S
4 contributions
Hola, quiero hacer un viaje a Montreal-Quebec aproximadamente para el mes de Mayo 2020, sin embargo por cuestiones de trabajo solo tengo 5 días, que itinerario me recomendarían para conocer lo más posible y cual sería el presupuesto aproximado que podría gastar en estos días.
Gracias
Alyta
Merida, Mexico134 contributions
El presupuesto puedes adecuarlo según tu capacidad económica, pienso que debes empezar Toronto, que es el aeropuerto más conectado, dedicar un pasa día en Niagara, definitivamente Renta un auto para que manejes tus tiempos. Si sales temprano, visitas la catarata y como a las 7 8 de la noche ya estás de regreso directo a cn tower y el acuario que están uno a lado del otro y cierran tarde por la noche. Ya tu decides si te lanzas manejando hasta Quebec, pasando por 1000 islas y llegar en la noche, Quebec visitar mountmorency catarata, y la Isla de Orleans, por la mañana, por la tarde el viejo Quebec, así ya llevas 4 días, tomando en cuenta el día que llegas, y al día siguiente salir temprano porque son entre 6 y 8 hrs manejando. A ver si acomodas el vuelo que sea tarde o temprano el día siguiente.
Anthony Cerrone
Schuylerville, NY
Dance places in old Montreal
Mohamed A
Canada12 contributions
La Voûte 360 St. Jaques
La Champagnerie St Paul Est.
Have fun!
Tahoeguy0
Excelsior, MN17 contributions
I was wondering if i could get some advice on two things -
I will be using a Visa for most things, but if i want to use cash, should i exchange US dollars for Canadian at a bank or what would you recommend?
Second - We will have all day Thursday, Friday and Saturday and will leave Sunday afternoon to return back home.
I have read many people suggest going to Quebec for a day.
Would those of you reading this also highly recommend we do that and if so, what is best way to go from Montreal to Quebec?
I know there is a train and also i think the Grey Line bus tours doing a full day excursion.
Can you recommend the best way to do that and also, where should we go once we get to Quebec?
I appreciate any help!
Thanks you!
Rod
jeff h
Salem, OR771 contributions
Definitely Quebec City make sure you get an excursion with the falls and St Anne deaupre cathederal
Tahoeguy0
Excelsior, MN17 contributions
HI,
I am from Eden Prairie and will be traveling to Montreal early November.
I saw your review of Old Montreal but sounds like you encountered some problems with traffic and construction. Was all of what you are referring too on the roads to get to Old Montreal?
We are staying in hotel just a 15 walk to Old Montreal so we wouldn't have to drive and will be doing Uber.
Once you got there, was it pretty cool to walk around the area?
If we had more time, we would love to go to Quebec but that won't work.
Did you enjoy the rest of Montreal and what things would you highly recommend to do there?
Thank you very much!
Rod
SummersideLocal
Summerside23 contributions
Sorry I missed your question. It was just touristy for us, loved Mile End area though. What did you think of Old Montreal?
besho a
1 contribution
Hello is there a free walking tour?
if yes how to book or get it?
If no, what is the best value for price tour?
wauman
Charlotte, NC22 contributions
Yes there are great walking tours in English for free. That said, you should expect to tip your guide (because the one we had at least really deserved it) so it’s not really “free”. We went on a two hour tour that included the downtown, Basilica area, old Montreal and the old Port. It was truly an excellent and informative tour of the history, culture, and politics and of course the major sights. Don’t have name of company but found it by searching English speaking free tours.
Sharon B
Macomb, MI1 contribution
How long does it take to get here from the airport? We have a five hour layover and are thinking of getting lunch and wandering a bit. Any restaurant suggestions?
ShadraB
Nottingham, UK419 contributions
I would NOT recommend trying to get to the old port with only a 5 hour layover. There is always traffic and construction that slows the trip in. Try Da Magnione or something closer.
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Claim your listingOld Montreal - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions about Old Montreal
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Old Montreal:
- History Walking Tour of Old Montreal (From $23.78)
- Montreal City Sightseeing Tour with Live Commentary (From $49.04)
- Old Montreal walking tour By FITZ MONTREAL (From $36.41)
- Greater Montreal 5-hour VIP Guided City Tour (From $90.70)
- Old Montreal Ghost Walking Tour (From $23.78)
- Hotels near Old Montreal:
- (0.07 mi) Hotel Nelligan
- (0.08 mi) Le Petit Hotel Saint-Paul
- (0.08 mi) Epik Hotel Montreal
- (0.06 mi) Hôtel Bonaparte
- (0.05 mi) Le Saint-Sulpice Hotel Montréal
- Restaurants near Old Montreal:
- (0.03 mi) Lapop
- (0.04 mi) Les Glaceurs
- (0.07 mi) Mechant Boeuf Bar Brasserie
- (0.05 mi) Restaurant Bonaparte
- (0.10 mi) Stash Cafe
- Attractions near Old Montreal:
- (0.04 mi) Centaur Theatre
- (0.06 mi) Notre-Dame Basilica
- (0.10 mi) Dubarry Furs
- (0.11 mi) Guidatour
- (0.09 mi) Rue St-Paul