Old Montreal
Old Montreal
4.5
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
Old Montreal is a historic neighborhood in Canada with a charming Parisian flair. Be transported back in time as you wander down the cobblestone streets and admire the stunning architecture. Check out the Bonsecours Market for some unique shopping, stroll along St. Paul Street, and visit the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal to admire the incredible stained glass windows. You can also head to the old port for a Ferris wheel ride, zipline, or cruise. Take a walking tour to learn more about its history or a ghost tour to explore the neighborhood after dark. Visit in the winter to see the beautiful holiday decorations. – Tripadvisor
Duration: More than 3 hours
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Top ways to experience Old Montreal
The area
Neighborhood: Ville-Marie
How to get there
- Place-d'Armes • 4 min walk
- Square-Victoria-OACI • 9 min walk
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
3,323 within 3 miles
Attractions
531 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- TRLWIMinneapolis, Minnesota31 contributionsVery Educational and Enjoyable Day Well Spent!Our tour guide was Sarah M and she did an outstanding job of informing us of the history, culture, and architecture of OLD Montreal. She is bilingual and spoke fluent French and English. She reminded us of a college professor as she had so much information about the area but yet, made it a very enjoyable and educational experience. We had for for both the Eastern and Western Tours. She was able to blend details with entertainment making it a very enjoyable experience. I strongly recommend that you consider taking both walking tours if you want to be immersed in history and culture of Montreal.Visited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten September 20, 2023
- RG02Swindon, United Kingdom304 contributionsInteresting Old MontrealStarting at the basilica we spent about 90 minutes walking around the old city area. We visited the old bank with beautiful ceilings, it’s now a cafe, a 30 minute wait for a good coffee but filtered available immediately.We then went down towards the port area where the Old Custom House is situate. The ‘Whisperers’ bronze statue on our route made us smile, then it was back to the starting point.Visited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 12, 2023
- TERRAvelistaLondon, United Kingdom18,505 contributionsGreat area reminding me of some historic places in EuropeCute cobblestone streets reminding me of so many European cities, following the same architecture one finds in many places scattered across Europe with lots of coffee shops, small restaurants, places to visit and shops, the latter having rather high prices, if you are used to very high quality items you can purchase online from all over the world at a fraction of their cost here. Nevertheless, this is a great area to walk, just have comfortable shoes and a drink on hand in a warm day. My other half booked a hotel located in Sherbrook Avenue which was convenient for walking to this area on a daily basis, visiting nearby Notre Dame and all the other places of interest.Visited September 2023Traveled with familyWritten October 27, 2023
- Chloe ThomasRussell Springs, Kentucky1,564 contributionsMost Time Spent HereWhile in the city, we spent most of our time in Old Montreal. The area is full of sights to see and delicious restaurants to enjoy a meal or two at. You’ll also find lots of hotels, cafes, and stores.Visited October 2023Traveled with friendsWritten November 19, 2023
- AdamLeavesCanberra, Australia520 contributionsAn enjoyable historic walkI followed a free online walking tour of Old Montreal and very much enjoyed it. I didn't really get a strong French vibe, much more a feeling of Canada as a French/English amalgam. And of course sitting on the Saint Laurence River which is the reason the city grew up there.Visited October 2023Traveled soloWritten November 21, 2023
- FoodangeManchester, United Kingdom4,114 contributionsWanderers in the Old TownWe loved wandering the streets of the old town, away from the tall buildings. For us there were a few too many tourist tat places all selling the same stuff, but if you looked hard enough, also individual shops, restaurants and cafés. Rue St Paul was a favourite, which we visited a couple of times.Visited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten December 1, 2023
- drew s6th of October City, Egypt7 contributionsOld Montreal visit, a must see, best in summer months, lively and lots to see and do.Love this area of Montreal, a must see and experience. Best in summer, lively and lots to see and do. Fantastic restaurants with many to chose from. Been here many times, but this was my first in November and was very cold and windy, very few people there- wouldn't recommend visiting in November.Visited November 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten December 2, 2023
- TheMahdiBoracay, Philippines248 contributionsA Lomg Beautiful WalkTbe same coment i gave in Rue St Paul which is actually few minites away from this location. The Old Montreal jas a major old street that connects many tourists spots together. So if you can walk long distance i suggeat you to come here and along the way you can Start from Crew Collective Cafe then Notre Dame tjen go to this are then continue to Rue St Paul, can visit Cfe Olympico (for their coffee) and/or have your lunch pizzaat Slice & Soda.Visited December 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten December 17, 2023
- pasowinePaso Robles, California5,364 contributionsOne of the highlights of Visiting MontrealSuch a unique place - definitely has the flavor of Europe to it, despite the tourists! The time to go however is when it isn't as crowded. Easy to stroll around, snack, have a drink, do some shopping. Also take a walking tour and learn some of the history of old Montreal!Visited October 2023Traveled with friendsWritten January 22, 2024
- SMMMontreal, Canada31 contributionsAn absolute must seeOld Montreal is beautiful, and an absolute must for visitors. We wandered the beautiful stone streets and admired the architecture. There are a number of quaint shops and eateries available, and we stopped for a delicious cheesy crepe (that was served with crisp fresh salad) before exploring Marche Bonecours (a lovely market featuring hand made jewellery and items). Although it was cold when we visited (0 degrees), there are any number of warn cosy cafe to stop in for refreshment. It was a beautiful walk and lovely experience.Visited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 31, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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debrakgrose
Port Perry, Canada123 contributions
Dec 2019
Although only a tiny portion of Montreal, the Old Montreal (la Vieux) had plenty of charm and sights to offer. The old section was quiet and friendly, & some buildings were decked out for Christmas by our visit. A lovely area to explore at anytime and even nicer at Christmas. Christmas lights twinkle.
There was a movie being shot on some of the smaller cobbled stone side streets set in the 1930's and 40's. amazing all the work it takes for one part of the movie to look vintage. But Old Montreal was the perfect location to dress up so actors can travel back in time.
Old buildings, cute shops, lots of nice looking restaurants, and all that history. You can certainly spend a day here walking around the streets, Place Jacques Cartier, the river views, and don't miss the Notre Dame Basilica which is one of the world's most beautiful churches.
It's Old World charm at it's finest!
There was a movie being shot on some of the smaller cobbled stone side streets set in the 1930's and 40's. amazing all the work it takes for one part of the movie to look vintage. But Old Montreal was the perfect location to dress up so actors can travel back in time.
Old buildings, cute shops, lots of nice looking restaurants, and all that history. You can certainly spend a day here walking around the streets, Place Jacques Cartier, the river views, and don't miss the Notre Dame Basilica which is one of the world's most beautiful churches.
It's Old World charm at it's finest!
Written January 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ivo G
Montreal, Canada47 contributions
Oct 2019
The city has put a lot of money into revitalizing this popular tourist area. Games for kids, ferris wheel for city views, loads of good restaurants, etc. Something for everybody. Parking is awful and the city doesn't help, the lots are very expensive.
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eriq T
Montreal, Canada6 contributions
Apr 2019
One of few remaining really old neighbourhoods in North America is great for walking but the streets and summer crowds don't lend themselves to driving around here. The area is a short walk from downtown. Rent a bike if you really want to zip around.
The shops are touristy, it's a tourist area, so if you're looking for shopping bargains go north on St Laurent and enjoy. The cafes I've been to were all fine, nothing that exciting, but the area's appeal is just to walk around and take in the ancient (by Canadian standards) buildings or hang by the water. There are events by the water all summer, some freer than others. Good to spend time with family or kids without having to spend pay admission or spend large on food. When it's quiet, Old Montreal is enchanting. You can feel some ghostly vibe walking through the squares between the empty streets. It's nice even when it's busy, but it's awesome when you're alone (or together alone) down there.
The shops are touristy, it's a tourist area, so if you're looking for shopping bargains go north on St Laurent and enjoy. The cafes I've been to were all fine, nothing that exciting, but the area's appeal is just to walk around and take in the ancient (by Canadian standards) buildings or hang by the water. There are events by the water all summer, some freer than others. Good to spend time with family or kids without having to spend pay admission or spend large on food. When it's quiet, Old Montreal is enchanting. You can feel some ghostly vibe walking through the squares between the empty streets. It's nice even when it's busy, but it's awesome when you're alone (or together alone) down there.
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Crystal S
Overland Park, KS229 contributions
Jul 2022
If you're staying in Montreal for the first time I definitely recommend staying in/near this area. We stayed in an area technically called Old Port which is right next to what I think is the official Old Montreal. There's just so many beautiful old buildings here, it's super walkable and has tons of little bars, restaurants, boutiques, etc. It is a little touristy and pricey but it's still totally worth it.
Written August 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
M S
New York City, NY14 contributions
Oct 2022 • Business
This was my first trip to Montreal and I made it a point to go to Old town. I was not disappointed. Notre Dame is beautiful. I attended a mass in advance of a ticket that I had purchased to see the cathedral as I wanted to worship and hear their renowned organist. Amazing... At any rate, it was wonderful both inside and out as there are musicians surrounding the area and a lot of beautiful architecture to see. I had a lot of fun at Chococina, an amazing chocolate store. The owner is personable and I enjoyed every minute of it. Everything he suggested was on point. I then grabbed a chocolate croissant and tea from a nearby cafe and sat in front of the cathedral to listen to Ex Machina, a magnificent cellist. A wonderful day.
Written October 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Roberta L
1 contribution
Aug 2022
There is a great self-guided tour available in Old Montreal. The old buildings are beautiful. We spent 2 and 1/2 days exploring the area and its museums and could have even spent more time there. The Chateau Ramezay was a fascinating little museum, a great bargain, and helped understand Montreal in its early days!
Written August 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
alittlebitofBS
Tustin, CA29 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
Did a guided walking tour of Old Quebec this morning; our guide was Sandrine Dubois, dressed in colonial attire. In a very engaging manner she gave 20 of us a very informative history of North America. Learned a lot...
Written October 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AlexYYZ
Toronto, Canada209 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Went over for the weekend; spent a few hours walking around and eating in a couple of restaurants. The area is nice and there a re many shops to drop by. The parking can be tricky but there are a lot of spots in the alleys and side streets to leave your car; you need to pay and take your ticket with you - just remember to use the right number (see picture) and find a machine to pay (there are only a few so you may need to walk a block or two until you find one)
Written February 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
IAl
Toronto, Canada280 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
What more can I say about this place that hasn’t been said already. It is beautiful, packed with history of the earliest days of Montreal (from the 1640’s onwards), it’s lively, it’s walkable, it’s scenic, and there’s tons of things to do and see.
Particular areas of note are Rue St.Paul, which is the oldest street in Montreal. Place d’armes which is right by the grand Notre Dame Basilica and is always a lively place day and night (there are often free entertainment acts on this public square). Also, don’t forget to spend a lot of time on the Old Port area, which is packed with summer activities and is immensely walkable and bike-able. And from the Old Port area, head uphill to the historic Place de Jacques Cartier square, les Marches des Bonsecours or the gardens in Chateau Ramezay (the gardens are free to enter).
Particular areas of note are Rue St.Paul, which is the oldest street in Montreal. Place d’armes which is right by the grand Notre Dame Basilica and is always a lively place day and night (there are often free entertainment acts on this public square). Also, don’t forget to spend a lot of time on the Old Port area, which is packed with summer activities and is immensely walkable and bike-able. And from the Old Port area, head uphill to the historic Place de Jacques Cartier square, les Marches des Bonsecours or the gardens in Chateau Ramezay (the gardens are free to enter).
Written August 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Footprints767952
553 contributions
Jan 2020 • Solo
Visited Montreal many times and would always love to walk around in Vieux Montreal cobblestones streets, browsing inside the art galleries, or little shopping for souvenirs, regardless the Quebec winter.
Admired historic architectures, whether be buildings in Parisan, British or in general European style; indeed mosaic, Canadian culture has manifested.
Old Montreal makes distinction and has allure.
Admired historic architectures, whether be buildings in Parisan, British or in general European style; indeed mosaic, Canadian culture has manifested.
Old Montreal makes distinction and has allure.
Written February 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Would a day be enough to walk around old momtreal? Or should allot at least 2 days to see other sites
Written July 22, 2021
yes a full day would give you access to both the historic streets and shops with a few of the inside views of historic places. however there are a number of museums that are well worth seeing in the Old Port so two days would be better.
Written July 30, 2021
How did you book the horse drawn carriage? I can't find much online in way of reservations or bookings.
Thanks!
Written February 10, 2020
The City of Montreal has banned horse carriage rides over animal health concerns. Quebec City still has carriage rides available.
Written July 15, 2024
Hola, quiero hacer un viaje a Montreal-Quebec aproximadamente para el mes de Mayo 2020, sin embargo por cuestiones de trabajo solo tengo 5 días, que itinerario me recomendarían para conocer lo más posible y cual sería el presupuesto aproximado que podría gastar en estos días.
Gracias
Written October 8, 2019
El presupuesto puedes adecuarlo según tu capacidad económica, pienso que debes empezar Toronto, que es el aeropuerto más conectado, dedicar un pasa día en Niagara, definitivamente Renta un auto para que manejes tus tiempos. Si sales temprano, visitas la catarata y como a las 7 8 de la noche ya estás de regreso directo a cn tower y el acuario que están uno a lado del otro y cierran tarde por la noche. Ya tu decides si te lanzas manejando hasta Quebec, pasando por 1000 islas y llegar en la noche, Quebec visitar mountmorency catarata, y la Isla de Orleans, por la mañana, por la tarde el viejo Quebec, así ya llevas 4 días, tomando en cuenta el día que llegas, y al día siguiente salir temprano porque son entre 6 y 8 hrs manejando. A ver si acomodas el vuelo que sea tarde o temprano el día siguiente.
Written October 10, 2019
La Voûte 360 St. Jaques
La Champagnerie St Paul Est.
Have fun!
Written February 16, 2020
I was wondering if i could get some advice on two things -
I will be using a Visa for most things, but if i want to use cash, should i exchange US dollars for Canadian at a bank or what would you recommend?
Second - We will have all day Thursday, Friday and Saturday and will leave Sunday afternoon to return back home.
I have read many people suggest going to Quebec for a day.
Would those of you reading this also highly recommend we do that and if so, what is best way to go from Montreal to Quebec?
I know there is a train and also i think the Grey Line bus tours doing a full day excursion.
Can you recommend the best way to do that and also, where should we go once we get to Quebec?
I appreciate any help!
Thanks you!
Rod
Written September 10, 2019
Definitely Quebec City make sure you get an excursion with the falls and St Anne deaupre cathederal
Written September 17, 2019
HI,
I am from Eden Prairie and will be traveling to Montreal early November.
I saw your review of Old Montreal but sounds like you encountered some problems with traffic and construction. Was all of what you are referring too on the roads to get to Old Montreal?
We are staying in hotel just a 15 walk to Old Montreal so we wouldn't have to drive and will be doing Uber.
Once you got there, was it pretty cool to walk around the area?
If we had more time, we would love to go to Quebec but that won't work.
Did you enjoy the rest of Montreal and what things would you highly recommend to do there?
Thank you very much!
Rod
Written September 9, 2019
Sorry I missed your question. It was just touristy for us, loved Mile End area though. What did you think of Old Montreal?
Written December 29, 2019
Hello is there a free walking tour?
if yes how to book or get it?
If no, what is the best value for price tour?
Written August 17, 2019
Yes there are great walking tours in English for free. That said, you should expect to tip your guide (because the one we had at least really deserved it) so it’s not really “free”. We went on a two hour tour that included the downtown, Basilica area, old Montreal and the old Port. It was truly an excellent and informative tour of the history, culture, and politics and of course the major sights. Don’t have name of company but found it by searching English speaking free tours.
Written August 20, 2019
How long does it take to get here from the airport? We have a five hour layover and are thinking of getting lunch and wandering a bit. Any restaurant suggestions?
Written July 20, 2019
I would NOT recommend trying to get to the old port with only a 5 hour layover. There is always traffic and construction that slows the trip in. Try Da Magnione or something closer.
Written July 21, 2019
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