Montreal-2-day-itinerary

August 5, 2024

Day 1: Wednesday

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Start the day with a visit to Jean-Talon Market, one of North America’s largest public markets. Try some fresh fruit, cheese, or bread for breakfast.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Walk off your breakfast by exploring the surrounding streets and admiring the vibrant street art in the area.

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Visit the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, a beautiful Catholic church known for its stunning architecture and ornate decorations. Admission is around $5.
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Grab lunch at Au Pied de Cochon, a renowned restaurant famous for its foie gras and pork-based dishes. Be prepared for a long wait, but it’s worth it!
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore the Old Montreal neighborhood, which features cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and beautiful scenery.

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Visit the Place des Festivals, a pedestrian street turned into an outdoor festival during the summer. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and street performers.
10:00 PM: End the night with a visit to the Ritz-Carlton’s Rooftop Bar, offering stunning views of the city.

Where to stay:

Hotel Le Germain Montreal: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of downtown, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar.
Le Saint-Sulpice Hotel: A boutique hotel with stylish rooms and a cozy atmosphere.

Things to know:

Language: French is the official language, but many people speak English.
Currency: Canadian dollars (CAD) are the local currency.
Weather: Montreal has a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Pack accordingly!

Transportation:

Metro: A convenient way to get around the city, with 4 lines covering most areas.
Bus: An affordable option for shorter trips or exploring specific neighborhoods.
Taxi: Available at designated stands or by calling ahead.

Tips:

Learn some basic French phrases: It will go a long way in interacting with locals and showing respect for the culture.
Be prepared for crowds: Popular areas like Old Montreal can get very busy, especially during peak season.
Don’t forget your umbrella: Rain showers are common in Montreal, so be sure to bring an umbrella or raincoat.

Day 2: Thursday

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Grab lunch at Poutine La Belle Province, a popular spot for classic Quebecois dishes like poutine and tourtière.

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore the Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Admission is around $15.
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Visit the Mount Royal Park, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.

8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Toqué!, a renowned restaurant known for its contemporary French cuisine. Be sure to book a table in advance!
11:00 PM: End the night with a visit to the Cabaret du Mile-End, a popular spot for live music and dance.

Other things of interest:

Montreal Jazz Festival: A world-renowned festival taking place every summer, featuring jazz performances from around the globe.
Just for Laughs: A comedy festival that brings top comedians to Montreal every July.
Carnaval de Quebec: A winter carnival held in nearby Quebec City, featuring snow sculptures, parades, and more.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Montreal!