Welcome to Historical Montreal!

As we near the ICANN66 AGM, we decided to put together a list of our favourite things to see and do in Montreal. For those new to the city, a few items to know:

  • Sangria is a city favourite and you’ll find it at the top of most drink menus.
  • Poutine is a tasty must-try treat that originates from Quebec – it comprises of fries drenched in gravy and cheese curds.
  • Montreal is known in Canada as a culturally rich and diverse city – the food and entertainment are no exception!
  • Yes it will be cold, bring some warm layers and good walking shoes or boots… The snow doesn’t usually pick up until December.

Activities

Hockey Game

Link: https://www.nhl.com/canadiens   Address: Bell Centre, 1909 Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montreal, Montreal

Spend an evening at a Montreal Canadiens NHL game and enjoy one of Canada’s most popular sports. Founded in 1999, the Canadiens are the longest continuously operating professional ice hockey team in the world and the only NHL club existing that predates the founding of the NHL! Fun fact: the Montreal Canadiens have won the Stanley Cup more times than any other franchise, winning 24 Stanley Cup championships. The Montreal Canadiens are hosting the Boston Bruins in a home game on November 5th – we hope you get a chance to enjoy!

Mount Royal

Link: https://www.lemontroyal.qc.ca/en

Mount Royal is a large volcanic-created hill located to the west of Downtown Montreal. The hill has three peaks to explore including Colline de la Croix (233 m/764 ft elevation), Colline d’Outremont (211 m/692 ft elevation), and Westmount Summit (201 m/659 ft elevation). Spend the day exploring nature on your own, or join one of the various activities hosted on the mountain including a guided nature walk, a free exhibition on Mount Royal in Smith House, a warm drink at Café des Amis, and more.

Spade & Palacio Walking Tour

Link: https://spadeandpalacio.com/

You will spend two hours with a local guide taking you to see 25 different murals through Saint-Laurent Boulevard. The vibrant street art acts as an outdoor art gallery and is the work of local and visiting artists, blending together Montreal’s multicultural vibes.

Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau

Link: https://botabota.ca/en/   Address: Old Port, Corner of McGill and de la Commune West, Montreal

Anchored at the Old Port of Montreal, Bota Bota is comprised of five decks on which you will find various spa installations. Float away and enjoy the enchanting décor of Old Montreal as a backdrop. This spa is unlike any other and will leave you relaxed and inspired.

Attractions

Jardin Botanique (Botanical Garden)

Link: http://espacepourlavie.ca/en/botanical-garden   Address: 4101 Sherbrooke Street East, Montreal

Montreal’s Botanical Garden is located on the site that hosted the 1976 Summer Olympic Games. Overlooking the city, you will be presented with 30 themed gardens and 10 exhibition greenhouses. Gardens include everything from alpine to medicinal and toxic plants and even a tropical rainforest!

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal

Link: https://www.basiliquenotredame.ca/en   Address: 110 Rue Notre-Dame Ouest, Montreal

Montreal’s oldest church, Notre-Dame Basilica is a sight to be seen. Some highlights include the 7,000-pipe organ and the stained-glass windows portraying scenes from the founding of Montreal. There are two tours available – a 20-minute tour or a longer and more historical one-hour tour that gives you access to private areas, including a second balcony and crypt. Also work checking out is Aura – A luminous experience in the heart of the Basilica by Moment Factory.

Olympic Stadium (Stade Olympique)

Link: https://parcolympique.qc.ca/en/   Address: 4141 Pierre-de Coubertin Ave, Montreal

Built for the 1976 Summer Olympics, the Olympic Stadium is one of the most identifiable structures in the city. It was the home of Montreal’s former baseball team, the Expos, who are now known as the Washington Nationals after their relocation to the United States. Today, the venue serves as host for concerts, trade shows, and conventions. The stadium is surrounded by other must-see sites like the Biodome, the Botanical Garden, and the Insectarium.

Pointe-à-Callière

Link: https://pacmusee.qc.ca/en/   Address: 350 Place Royale, Montreal

Housed in one corner of Place Royale in Old Montreal you’ll find Pointe-à-Callière. This was the center of life in Montreal’s early and colonial days. Now, you can take a walk through the underground city tunnels that showcase original stone-paved streets, drainage channels and more. It ends through a museum where you can see the history unfold through artifacts, maps, and exhibits.

Bars

Bartizen

Link: https://bartizen.com/en/    Address: 901 Rue du Square-Victoria, Montreal

Specializing in Quebec gins and craft perfumes, this 40s-style bar will leave you wanting more. Make sure to try the Wendigo cocktail made with Gin Wendigo, hibiscus syrup, lemon, and prosecco. We suggest to have fun with the menu and go for a drink you wouldn’t usually gravitate towards.

Dieu du Ciel

Link: https://dieuduciel.com/en/   Address: 29 Avenue Laurier O, Montreal

Dieu du Ciel is a craft brewery in operation since 1998. You’ll find a great selection of beers from IPAs to wheat beers and stouts. They are not afraid to experiment with unique flavours and pride themselves on being nonconformists. All beer is made in house.

Milky Way Cocktail Bar

Link: https://www.milkywaycocktails.com/   Address: 1886 Centre St., Montreal

A cool and colourful interior is paired with innovative cocktails that will keep you excited from beginning to end. Not only will you receive new and fresh cocktails, but you will also be in awe of the plating and original creations. We bet you can’t have just one!

Sky Complexe

Link: http://www.complexesky.com/   Address: 1478 St. Catherine St E, Montreal

Best known for its rooftop terrace, Sky Complexe is a four-floor bar that hosts dancing on the lower floors and a relaxing environment at the top. Great for sipping sangria and exploring Montreal’s famous nightlife, the bar also includes a pool and hot tub on the rooftop.

Cafés

Crew Collective

Link: https://crewcollectivecafe.com/    Address: 360 St. Jacques St., Montreal

One of the most breathtaking cafés located in Old Montreal, Crew Collective is located in the old headquarters of the Royal Bank of Canada, with a cathedral-style interior. The perfect spot to get some work done, this café features super-fast free WiFi, silence pods and amazing coffee. With 50-foot-high ceilings and 12,000 square feet of space, it’s also the biggest café in Montreal!

Café Olimpico

Link: https://www.restomontreal.ca/resto/cafe-olimpico/3066/en/   Address: 124 Rue Saint Viateur O, Montreal

One of Montreal’s best-kept secrets for a place to get the perfect morning cup of espresso or afternoon cappuccino. This charming café is known for its multiculturalism and European flavour. Enjoy a coffee and a pastry and explore the Mile End district, an ever-growing neighbourhood in which the café is located.

Café Ferlucci

Link: https://www.facebook.com/cafeferlucci   Address: 432 Rue de Castelnau, Montreal

This 50s-style café still holds the original wood, paint, and windows as from when they first opened their doors. Known for its delicious cappuccinos and pastries, you’ll leave happy and caffeinated. Make sure to try the horseshoe Nutella rolls and be honest with us how many you ended up eating!

Dining

La Banquise

Link: https://labanquise.com/    Address: 994 Rue Rachel E, Montreal

Looking for poutine after hours? Head to La Banquise, a 24-hour diner offering more than 30 types of poutine options and hefty breakfasts. From the classic to the Elvis, the Mexican, the Rachel, and the Scooby, it will be hard to choose just one.

Cinko

Link: http://cinkomtl.com/   Address: 1641 St. Denis St, Montreal

A fun, eclectic eatery that offers comfort food items like nachos, salads, and burgers all priced at $5! Cinko provides a casual vibe with fun music and colourful décor. Sip down a cocktail as you select your dining choices and don’t worry about staying late – the kitchen is open until 3 am!

Fabergé Restaurant

Link: https://www.faberge514.com/   Address: 25 Fairmount Ave, Montreal

Brunch made from the heart. Located in the warm atmosphere of the Mile End neighbourhood, Fabergé Restaurant serves brunch options all day, every day. Choose from classic brunch selections like Eggs Benedict, omelets, waffles and crepes, or select something funky from the drink menu that features unique smoothies, milkshakes, juices, and cocktails.

Fairmount Bagel

Link: https://fairmountbagel.com/   Address: 263 rue St-Viateur O., Montreal

Give this family-run restaurant serving up Montreal-style bagels and other treats a shot. Fairmount Bagel is the first bagel shop in Montreal, and where Montrealers got their first taste of the bagel. The family continues to use the same recipes as they did in 1919, still baking their bagels in old fashioned wood-burning ovens. And while you’re there, give the new cranberry bagel a try!

Jardin Nelson

Link: https://jardinnelson.com/en/   Address: 407 Place Jacques-Cartier, Montreal

Located in the heart of Old Montreal, Jardin Nelson is a casual spot for delicious dining and fun cocktails with a heated garden patio and live jazz music every evening. Filled with beautiful greenery and lights, Jardin Nelson is a must-try in Old Montreal!

Joe Beef

Link: https://www.joebeef.ca/   Address: 2491 Notre-Dame St. W, Montreal

Rated number three on Canada’s 100 best restaurants, Joe Beef is a relaxed restaurant serving up some of the most delicious seafood and steaks. An old Montreal classic, Joe Beef was visited by many celebrity chefs and is even named as Joe Rogan’s “all-time favourite restaurant.”

Le Passé Composé

Link: https://www.bistropassecompose.com/   Address: 1310 Boulevard de Maisonneuve E, Montreal

From poached eggs to apple beignets and waffles, this cozy restaurant is a must for fresh brunch cuisine. The large variety of menu items appeals to adventurous foodies, picky eaters and all those in between.

LOV

Link: https://lov.com/en/   Address: Multiple locations

Vegan food done right. LOV has an eco-commitment and uses the freshest, most organic ingredients from local artisans and suppliers. Their wines are produced using organic farming and they are mindful to respect the flora and fauna. All of LOV’s meals are home-made, and they know each and every ingredient that goes into their recipes. This creates for natural, fresh and delicious cuisine that you can feel good consuming.

Maiolo Montreal

Link: https://maiolomontreal.com/   Address: 1800 Rue Sherbrook O, Montreal

If you’re looking for Italian fine-dining, look no further than Maiolo Montreal. Italian dishes are served in unique ways and paired with delicious wines that will leave you satisfied and stuffed. Make sure to leave room for their dessert, however, the tiramisu and cheesecake are not to be missed!

Old Port Steakhouse

Link: http://vieuxportsteakhouse.com/en/   Address: 39 St. Paul St E, Montreal

Old Port Steakhouse (Vieux-Port Steakhouse) is the host of one of the best terraces in Old Montreal. For three decades, the steakhouse has served quality cuts of aged beef cooked to perfection. Enjoy their warm and welcoming atmosphere filled with old stone walls, wood floors, and cozy fireplaces.

Poutineville

Link: http://www.poutineville.com/en/home.html   Address: Multiple locations

Some of the best poutine in the city can be found at Poutineville, where you can select between multiple options that will leave everyone satisfied. Vegetarian? No need to worry, there are plenty of options for you as well. Enjoy!

Santos

Link: https://www.ilovesantos.ca/   Address: 191 Saint-Paul St W, Montreal

Get served up traditional Spanish small plates while enjoying a selection of spirits, wine, and sangria all with an evening DJ to liven up the night. A great spot for both your intimate parties and larger, corporate events, this tapas-style bar will leave your taste buds asking for more.

Schwartz’s Deli

Link: https://www.schwartzsdeli.com/   Address: 3895 St. Laurent Blvd, Montreal

One of the oldest deli’s in Canada, and in business for over 90 years, this well-known deli serves up huge sandwiches, including Quebec’s world-famous smoked meat sandwich. A true Montreal landmark, Schwartz deli has welcomed celebrities and visitors from all over the world! Join the ranks of those who have enjoyed this fresh and old-fashioned meal.

St-Viateur Bagel

Link: https://www.stviateurbagel.com/   Address: 263 rue St-Viateur O., Montreal

Redefining the art of bagel making. A must-have bagel shop that is open 24-hours, St-Viateur Bagel is the place to stock up on your favourite bagels. Pro tip: depending on the time of day, there may be line ups to get a taste of this famous bagel. Buy 6-12 and save some time in the future (you will want to go back!). Try the classic sesame flavour, as it’s the most popular you’re guaranteed to find it’s also the freshest bagel!

Hidden Gems

Bistro Au Vieux St Hubert

Link: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g155032-d5920525-Reviews-Bistro_Au_Vieux_St_Hubert-Montreal_Quebec.html    Address: 1241 St Hubert St., Montreal

An old, underground karaoke bar, Bistro au Vieux St-Hubert has created a distinctive karaoke bar and bistro concept. Serving up a wide array of cocktails, liqueurs and out of the ordinary shooters, this intimate bar is the perfect after-hours activity.

Le 4e Mur

Link: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g155032-d8574005-Reviews-Le_4e_Mur-Montreal_Quebec.html   Address: 2021 Rue Saint-Denis, Montreal

A speakeasy with just the right ambiance, this hidden bar is worth the search. Get treated by creative cocktails once you find the secret door (hint, look for a special brick to open the door!). Le 4e Mur even has a murder mystery theme, with clues sprinkled throughout their menu, as well as frequent burlesque shows.

Museums & Art

Biosphère Environment Museum

Link: https://www.canada.ca/fr/environnement-changement-climatique/services/biosphere.html    Address: 160, chemin Tour-de-l’Isle, Montreal

A museum dedicated to the environment, the Biosphère Museum is located on Saint Helen’s Island which is the former site of the 1967 World Fair. The museum is beautiful from the outside as well, with a jaw-dropping geodesic dome covering it. The Biosphère Museum often presents exhibitions about the major environmental issues related to water, climate change, air, eco-technologies, and sustainable development.

McCord Museum

Link: https://www.musee-mccord.qc.ca/fr/   Address: 690 Sherbrooke Street W, Montreal

The McCord museum showcases Canada’s social history, especially that of Canada’s First Nations people. More than 20,000 objects include costumes, clothing, accessories, and quilts, while pieces of furniture, silver, ceramics, glass and other household items are also on display.

Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum)

Link: https://www.mbam.qc.ca/   Address: 1380 Rue Sherbrooke O, Montreal

The oldest museum in Canada, the Musée des Beaux Arts houses collections of paintings, sculptures, and new media. Some highlights include its outstanding collection of World Cultures and Mediterranean Archeology that totals nearly 10,000 objects from African, Asian, Islamic and North and South American art. As a bonus, Montreal’s famous McGill University is not far from the museum, so make sure to pay the university a visit as well.

Neighbourhoods

Le Plateau

Link: https://www.mtl.org/en/explore/neighbourhoods/plateau-and-mile-end

A young, vibrant neighbourhood full of charming town-houses, trendy bars and restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. Le Plateau is packed with beautiful parks and green spaces serving up baguettes, croissants, and pastries from the mix of boulangeries (bakeries) that line it’s streets. Take a little dip into what is considered one of the most European neighbourhoods in North America and explore what Le Plateau has to offer.

Old Port of Montreal

Link: https://www.mtl.org/en/explore/neighbourhoods/old-montreal

Located in Old Montreal, Old Port is the historic port of Montreal, Canada. Hosting many attractions, enjoy the neighbourhood by exploring the Montreal Science Centre or the Montreal Clock Tower. The riverfront is accessible for walking, cycling or roller-blading. Make sure to stop by the Grande roue de Montreal Ferris Wheel – the tallest Ferris Wheel in Canada!

Place Jacques-Cartier

Link: https://www.mtl.org/en/what-to-do/heritage-and-architecture/place-jacques-cartier-and-place-de-la-dauversiere

A lively square in Old Montreal, Place Jacques-Cartier is surrounded by historic architecture, gardens, and restaurants. Take a look at the impressive view of Nelson’s Column, Montreal’s oldest public monument.

Saint Laurent Boulevard

Link: http://boulevardsaintlaurent.com/en/

A commercial artery and cultural heritage site, Saint Laurent Boulevard is a major street in Montreal and often referred to as “Main Street”. It begins at the edge of the Saint Lawrence River and transcends through multiple boroughs and ethnic communities. A stroll down Saint Laurent Boulevard offers the visitor a glimpse into Montreal’s multi-cultural persona.

Square Saint-Louis and Rue Denis

Link: http://ville.montreal.qc.ca/portal/page?_pageid=7297,74582322&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL

One of Montreal’s prettiest old squares, this neighbourhood is home to Victorian-style homes and tree-lined streets. The square is also close to one of the hippest shopping, arts and dining streets in Montreal, Rue Denis. Historic buildings were converted into boutiques, cafes, and bistros for your enjoyment.

If you have any recommendations we should keep in mind, please let us know!

We look forward to seeing you soon and please reach out to us if you would like to schedule a meeting with any of our team members.