Start your trip by immersing yourself in the historical charm of Old Montreal. In the morning, wander through the picturesque streets, admiring the well-preserved architecture and cobblestone roads. Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, a magnificent Gothic Revival church that dates back to the 19th century. In the afternoon, explore the Pointe-à-Callière Museum, which showcases the city's rich history through interactive exhibits. As the evening sets in, head to the Old Port of Montreal and enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the St. Lawrence River, taking in the stunning city skyline.
Notre-Dame Basilica: Admission fee of CAD 8, approximately 1 hour
Pointe-à-Callière Museum: Admission fee of CAD 21, approximately 2-3 hours
Boat ride in the Old Port: CAD 30, approximately 1 hour
Restaurants
Breakfast: Le Cartet is a popular breakfast spot in Old Montreal, offering a variety of gourmet options like smoked salmon bagels and eggs benedict. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Lunch: Olive et Gourmando is a charming café renowned for its delicious sandwiches and salads. Menu highlights include their famous pulled pork sandwich and quinoa salad. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Dinner: Gibbys is a historic steakhouse located in a 200-year-old building in Old Montreal. Known for its prime rib and lobster, it offers an upscale dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Friday, August 18: Exploring Mount Royal and Plateau-Mont-Royal
In the morning, hike up Mount Royal, the iconic hill that offers breathtaking views of the city. Explore the beautiful park and visit the iconic Mount Royal Chalet. In the afternoon, head to the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere and vibrant streets. Stroll along Avenue Mont-Royal and discover charming boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafes. As evening approaches, experience the lively nightlife of the area by visiting local bars and enjoying live music.
Mount Royal Park: Free, approximately 2-3 hours
Mount Royal Chalet: Free, approximately 1 hour
Exploring Plateau-Mont-Royal: Free, time varies
Restaurants
Café Olympico: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Olympico. This popular café offers a cozy atmosphere and serves a variety of breakfast options, including fresh pastries, sandwiches, and excellent coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Aux Vivres: For a healthy and satisfying lunch, head to Aux Vivres. This vegan restaurant in Plateau-Mont-Royal offers a diverse menu of plant-based dishes, ranging from hearty grain bowls to delicious vegan burgers. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
L'Express: Enjoy a delightful dinner at L'Express, a classic French bistro in Plateau-Mont-Royal. Indulge in traditional French cuisine, such as escargots, duck confit, and steak frites, in a charming and lively atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Saturday, August 19: Shopping and Museums
Start your day by exploring the Underground City, a vast network of interconnected malls and tunnels. Discover a wide range of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. In the afternoon, visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, which features an impressive collection of art from various periods. Later, explore the Quartier des Spectacles, an area known for its festivals, street performers, and vibrant entertainment scene. End your day with a visit to the Montreal Science Centre, offering interactive exhibitions and an IMAX theater.
Underground City: Free, shopping costs vary, time varies
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: Admission fee of CAD 24, approximately 2-3 hours
Quartier des Spectacles: Free, time varies
Montreal Science Centre: Admission fee of CAD 16, approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning at Café Olimpico, a popular local spot known for its excellent coffee and cozy atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious breakfast of freshly baked pastries and traditional Italian espresso. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to L'Express, a classic French bistro offering a menu of traditional dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Try their famous steak frites or the seafood bouillabaisse. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Le Club Chasse et Pêche, an upscale restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and innovative cuisine. Feast on exquisite dishes prepared with locally-sourced ingredients, such as seared foie gras or roasted venison. The average cost for a meal is about $75 per person.
Sunday, August 20: Botanical Gardens and Biodome
Begin your day by visiting the Montreal Botanical Garden, a stunning oasis of nature and tranquility. Admire the beautiful flora and fauna, explore themed gardens, and take a leisurely walk around the grounds. In the afternoon, head to the Montreal Biodome, where you can experience different ecosystems and observe various animal species. Wrap up your trip by enjoying a relaxing picnic in the nearby Olympic Park.
Montreal Botanical Garden: Admission fee of CAD 21, approximately 2-3 hours
Montreal Biodome: Admission fee of CAD 22, approximately 2-3 hours
Olympic Park: Free, time varies
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those seeking off the beaten path attractions, visit the Mile End neighborhood. This vibrant area is known for its artistic community, trendy shops, and eclectic cafes. Explore the iconic Schwartz's Deli, famous for its mouthwatering smoked meat sandwiches. Another hidden gem is the Village au Pied-du-Courant, a pop-up bar located right on the waterfront. This urban oasis offers a unique atmosphere, live music, and food trucks. Don't forget to explore the street art scene in Montreal, with murals and graffiti adorning the walls of various neighborhoods, adding an artistic touch to the city.