Long Weekend in Montreal: Celebrating 25 Years of Marriage

Day 1: Arrival & Old Montreal Charm

Morning: Arrive and check into the elegant Hotel Nelligan, a 4-star gem situated in the heart of Old Montreal. Start your day with a leisurely brunch at Le Passé Composé, praised by foodies and Andrew Zimmern for its exquisite French-inspired dishes.

Afternoon: Embark on a guided walking tour of Old Montreal, exploring the cobblestone streets, the Notre-Dame Basilica, and the historic Old Port. The walking tour also includes stories of Montreal’s rich heritage and architecture.

Evening: Dine at Toqué!, a Michelin-starred restaurant beloved by Anthony Bourdain and Phil Rosenthal for its refined Quebecois cuisine. Enjoy an intimate, celebratory dinner that showcases local ingredients with modern techniques.

Day 2: Markets, Food Tours & Strolls

Morning: Start with brunch at Olive et Gourmando, a trendy, beloved spot by travel influencers where fresh, hearty dishes and pastries set the perfect tone. Then visit the Jean-Talon Market to savor seasonal produce, cheeses, and local delicacies.

Afternoon: Participate in a curated food tour in the Plateau neighborhood, taking in iconic culinary stops recommended by celebrity chefs, from Montreal-style bagels to smoked meats and artisanal chocolates. Follow up with a stroll through the St-Laurent Flea Market, famed for vintage finds and local crafts.

Evening: Return to Old Montreal for dinner at Damas, a 4-star Syrian restaurant celebrated by food bloggers and Andrew Zimmern for its vibrant and authentic flavors—a perfect way to enjoy the city's diverse culinary scene.

Day 3: Culture & Waterfront Relaxation

Morning: Enjoy a relaxing brunch at L’Avenue, a hotspot loved by locals and travelers alike for inventive plates and cozy ambiance. Afterwards, explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts or take a pleasant walk along the Old Port waterfront.

Afternoon: Rent bikes and pedal through the scenic Lachine Canal pathway, stopping for coffee at a waterside café. Visit Atwater Market to admire seasonal offerings or pick up gourmet souvenirs.

Evening: Celebrate with a farewell dinner at Le Serpent, a sleek restaurant recommended by Phil Rosenthal featuring contemporary dishes and a remarkable wine list. End your trip with a romantic stroll under the stars at Place Jacques-Cartier.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Hotel Nelligan (3 nights) – 72 hours – Approx. $1200 CAD
• Brunch reservations (Le Passé Composé, Olive et Gourmando, L’Avenue) – ~2 hours each day – Approx. $100 CAD per meal ($300 total)
• Dinners (Toqué!, Damas, Le Serpent) – ~2.5 hours each – Approx. $150 CAD per meal ($450 total)
• Old Montreal walking tour – 3 hours – Approx. $40 CAD per person ($80 total)
• Food tour in Plateau – 4 hours – Approx. $90 CAD per person ($180 total)
• Lachine Canal bike rental + coffee break – 3 hours – Approx. $50 CAD
• Jean-Talon and Atwater Markets, Flea Market visits – 2 hours total – Free entry, personal spending varies ($50 estimate)

Total estimated cost: $2,310 CAD

Tips

• If you prefer a shorter trip, consider focusing only on Old Montreal and the walking tour on Day 1, skipping Day 2’s Plateau neighborhood food tour to reduce travel and cost.
• For a longer trip, add a day exploring Montreal’s diverse neighborhoods such as Mile End for artisanal shops and more intimate food experiences, or spend a day visiting Mont Royal Park for beautiful views and nature walks.
• Reserve restaurant bookings at least two weeks in advance, especially for acclaimed spots like Toqué! and Damas, as they fill quickly in July.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and bring reusable bags for market shopping.