The Montréal Travel Guide
September 8, 2025
We’re all about making bucket lists and finding the fun. Here’s where to stay, eat, and shop in Montréal, according to Tuckernuck.
The Montréal Look
Parisian chic meets North American cool—think classic stripes, crisp denim and tailored layers by day. At night, lean into sleek black, leather jackets, and bold accessories.
Getting There
From your closest major airport, flying into Montréal (YUL) will be ~1.5-2 hours, leaving enough time to hail a cab and let the fun begin.
Explore Old Montréal
Cobblestone streets, grand cathedrals, and the city’s best boutique hotels—discover the charm and history of Old Montréal.
Dive into the Food Scene
Flaky croissants, warm bagels, and café hopping galore. Bring your appetite—you’re going to need it.
Climb Mount Royal
Lace up and head to this scenic hilltop park for panoramic views, leafy strolls, and a locals-only vibe.
Enjoy a Day of Art
From the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts to hidden gems like the Canadian Centre for Architecture, immerse yourself in curated culture.
Discover the Underground City
A 20-mile hidden-world network unique to Montréal, this insider secret is part metro maze, part shopping haven.
Ride the Ferris Wheel
Hop on La Grande Roue for sweeping city views. Day or night, it's always worth the ride.
From riverside charm to rooftop views, these stylish stays make it easy to settle in and soak up the magic.
Auberge du Vieux-Port
Located next to the Saint Lawrence River, this 19th-century warehouse-turned-boutique hotel is a blend of historic charm and modern touches. Cozy exposed brick walls, antique bedposts, and Le Labo bath products make it hard to leave.
Hotel William Gray
Overlooking Place Jacques-Cartier, the William Gray is where 18th-century architecture meets modern design and luxe amenities. Unwind at the spa, then grab dinner at the chic on-site restaurant, Maggie Oakes.
Hotel Place d’Armes
Set across four stunning 19th-century neoclassical buildings in the heart of Old Montréal, it’s got everything you need for a stylish, convenient stay (think rooftop terrace, spa, and unbeatable walkability).
From bagels to bistros Montréal’s food scene is as charming as it is crave worthy.
Breakfast
Fairmount Bagel Bakery
Baked in a wood-fired oven, these signature sweet, chewy bagels are thinner than their NYC cousins. Open since 1919, this is the place to try one (or a few), with 15 flavors to choose from.
Crew Cafe Collective
Complete with vaulted ceilings and marble floors, this co-working coffee shop is set inside the former Royal Bank of Montréal. Bring your laptop and grab a latte, pastry, or sandwich.
Arthur's Nosh Bar
Arthurs in Saint‑Henri is a breakfast gem known for their pancakes, dripping in maple syrup and sprinkled with sea salt, earning their reputation as the city's absolute best. The cozy retro vibe is a must for comforting brunch with a twist.
Tommy Cafe
This stylish gem serves up espresso, pastries, and serious charm in a dreamy, plant-filled space. Go for the lattes, stay for the vibes.
Lunch
BarBara Wine Bar
BarBara serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with an Italian twist. Go for the focaccia sandwiches and fresh pasta—go-tos for a chill lunch and wine.
Foiegwa
Foiegwa blends French flair with diner vibes in Montréal’s Southwest. From indulgent brunches to a crave-worthy late-night prix fixe menu and the city’s best burger, it’s a go-to for elevated comfort food done right.
Kra Pow
Dishing up bold, home-style Thai from a small but mighty, entirely gluten-free menu, this cozy eatery is ideal for a sightseeing and shopping recharge.
Modavie
An Old Montréal gem where French bistro classics meet live jazz. Cozy, candlelit, and perfect for beef tartare, a glass of wine, and a little romance, even at lunchtime.
Olive et Gourmando
A bright local favorite serving pastries, stacked sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee. Browse their charming boutique while you wait and snag a jar of local honey.
Mano Cornuto
Mano Cornuto nails the laid-back lunch—Italian sandwiches, espresso, and aperitifs in a cool, sun-soaked space you’ll want to linger in.
Dinner
Hitatus
Come for the views, stay for the food. This French‑Japanese restaurant is on the 46th floor of Place Ville-Marie, with tasting menus, creative small plates, a raw-bar café, and a seasonal cocktail terrace.
Jatoba
For a stylish crowd, this Asian‑fusion downtown spot has an indoor garden and terrace, sharable sushi, dynamite dumplings, and more globally-inspired dishes.
Le Club Chasse et Pêche
Le Club Chasse et Pêche offers a refined dining experience with a moody bar-and-lounge feel, intimate wine cellar, and striking stone walls throughout. Its unique layout and elevated menu make it a standout for a memorable night in Old Montreal.
Parapluie
Another Michelin Bib Gourmand pick, this small French spot feels sophisticated yet unpretentious all at once. Try any of the seasonal, shareable plates, homemade pasta, and under-the-radar wines.
Liverpool House
Blending seaside cottage charm with French brasserie classics, Liverpool House has a cozy vibe, stellar wine list, and lively oyster bar. Grab a seat on the patio or at the bar, but don’t leave without trying the legendary steak frites.
Casavant
This cozy neighborhood French bistro was named a Michelin Bib Gourmand pick for its locally sourced ingredients and plates like their famous beef tartare with smoked mackerel.
Le Filet
From the same owners as Le Club Chasse et Pêche, this delicious seafood spot has a buzzy setting whether you’re at the kitchen-view bar or seated in the dining room. Leave room for their famous maple square dessert!
Monarque
A Michelin pick, this Old Montréal brasserie has standout dishes and an impressive 400-bottle wine list for a splurge-worthy dinner.
Moccione
A neighborhood Italian favorite known for its seasonal menu, fresh ingredients, and house-made pastas. Pro tip: order their signature arancini appetizer and gnocchi di ricotta entree.
Nora Gray
A warm, intimate Italian spot in Griffintown known for handmade pastas, seasonal plates, and a standout wine list.
Follow the cobblestones to our favorite cocktail spots and raise a glass to an amazing trip.
The Coldroom
Tucked behind an unmarked black door in Old Montréal, this speakeasy serves up dimly lit vibes, expertly crafted cocktails. Beloved by locals (and visitors who know where to knock).
L'infame Tittle Tattle
A sultry bar serving cocktails with a side of drama. Known for its bold and playful concoctions that evoke childhood memories, it’s a great spot for late-night whispers and theatrical sips.
Atwater Cocktail Company
Tucked behind a local taco joint, this moody, neon-lit bar serves up inventive drinks with fun names and all the glam. A favorite for date night or catching up with friends.
Bar George
Tucked inside the stately Le Mount Stephen hotel, this grand bar pairs historic mansion vibes with modern cocktails. Grab a martini and settle in on the velvet banquettes.
From scenic sights to secret gardens and noteworthy shops, here’s how to explore Montréal the Tuckernuck way.
Ride a Ferris Wheel
La Grande Roue ferris wheel offers sweeping views of the city and St. Lawrence River from private, climate-controlled cabins. Open year-round, it’s a scenic must for first-time visitors and seasoned explorers alike.
See Notre Dame de Montréal
A stunning historic basilica that hosts everything from daily Mass to live jazz concerts, there's something for everyone to enjoy. With its breathtaking stained glass and soaring architecture, it’s a must-see for quiet reflection and cultural exploration.
Walk the Botanical Gardens
With everything from rare plants to a nearby planetarium, the Jardin botanique de Montréal is an outing fit for the whole family. Check out the awe-inspiring Chinese Garden, a hidden gem and a Tuckernuck team favorite.
Shop Mont Royal Ave
Packed with boutiques, bakeries, bookstores, and more, this is your go-to street for strolling, snacking, and shopping. Whether you're trinket hunting or bringing a gift back home, this street meets all your vacation shopping needs.
