Where to Stay in Montreal First Time: 8 Best Areas

The best areas to stay in Montreal for first-timers are Old Montreal, Downtown, Latin Quarter, Plateau Mont-Royal, Mile End, Gay Village, Rosemont La Petite Patrie, and Underground City. These are popular neighborhood for tourists that offer a wide variety of attractions and amenities.

In this guide, we will be looking at where to stay in Montreal for the first time, without a car, for family, nighlife, on a budget, as well as the safest areas to stay in Montreal.

Old Montreal and Downtown are the most popular places for tourists. Old Montreal is better than in Downtown if you are a first-time traveler and you want a more scenic and romantic atmosphere with many narrow cobblestone streets, and old buildings.

Downtown is better than Old Montreal if you want more shopping and dining options with lots of chain stores and underground shopping malls. They are only 15 minutes walk from each other.

Old Montreal is the best place to stay in Montreal for first-timers due to its close proximity to Montreal’s top tourist attraction. If you stay here, you will be located in the heart of the city, within walking distance to Montreal’s top sights, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shops.

Old Montreal and Downtown Montreal are the best places to stay in Montreal without a car due to its prime location, as well as its excellent public transport system and walkability. You can easily explore on foot, or by public transport.

If this is your first visit, I recommend spending at least three days in Montreal to explore the city. Three days is enough to see Montreal’s famous attractions to enjoy the local food and drink; and to get the sense of the city. If you have more days, you can take a day trip to Mont Tremblant, Saint Raphael Ruins, or just enjoy the city in a slower pace.

💖 Best Area for first-timers: Old Montreal – Vieux-Montréal
💎 Best luxury hotel: InterContinental Montreal, an IHG Hotel
🏨 Best mid-range hotel: LHotel 
💰 Best budget hotel: Auberge Saint-Paul Old Montreal

8 Best Areas to Stay in Montreal for tourists

1. Old Montreal, where to stay in Montreal for first-timers

Old Montreal, best place to stay in Montreal for first-time visitors

Old Montreal, also known as Vieux Montreal, is the best area to stay in Montreal for first-time travelers because it is the most convenient location to see tourist attractions. If you book a hotel here, you will be located in the heart of the city, with so many things to do and see within walking distance apart.

Located between the St Lawrence River and downtown Montreal, Old Montreal is the historic neighborhood that dating back to the early 1600s. Covering an area of about one square kilometre, this city’s oldest part is easily explore on foot.

Full of 17th-century historic buildings and quaint cobblestone streets, the atmosphere of years gone by is preserved in spite of it being right at the heart of the city center. Many of Montreal’s top tourist attractions are within a short walk of one another.

If you enjoy learning about the local history, take a stroll down any of the pretty cobblestone streets in Old Montreal and you are sure to stumble upon something fascinating. Being so close to the river, you can enjoy both the historic ambiance and the romance of waterfront views from Vieux Port. 

You can start your tour from the Place d’Armes, the second oldest public site in Montreal which is surrounded by Art Deco buildings, the Bank of Montréal which is the oldest banking institution in Canada, and the magnificent Notre Dame Basilica.

The stunning Gothic Revival church, Notre Dame Basilica of Montreal is the jewel of Old Montreal. The majestic church dates back to the early 1800s and is a perfect example of the area’s historic atmosphere.

It even hosts live music performances, so check the schedule if you want an unforgettable evening out. 

Another impressive building is the Montreal City Hall (Hôtel de Ville) which was built by Henri-Maurice Perrault and Alexander Cowper Hutchison between 1872 and 1878 and was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1984.

Many of the older buildings in Old Montreal have been converted into museums commemorating their notable tenants. Château Ramezay which was constructed in 1705 and the Marguerite-Bourgeoys museum are two such locations just down the road from the Notre Dame Basilica. 

Just a short walk from the Notre Dame Basilica is Pointe-à-Callière, the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History. The museum boasts a variety of fascinating exhibits and interactive displays to demonstrate how French and English colonists interacted and co-existed with First Nations people.

If you get tired of all the history, you can switch things up with a visit to Montreal Science Centre. Just a few minutes from the Notre Dame Basilica, the museum has exhibits and events that will appeal to the whole family.

When you need a break from all the sightseeing, head over to the oldest street in Montreal, Saint Paul Street, where you can find the famous Bonsecours Market that dates back to 1847, and Place Jacques-Cartier, named after the French explorer who discovered Montreal.

In addition to its many small art galleries, this area is known for its chic artisanal boutiques and trendy cafes. 

Old Montreal is also home to the Old Port of Montreal, also known as Vieux Port. Here you can browse souvenir shops and small art galleries whilst enjoying lovely views along the St Lawrence River. 

The Old Port is also home to the La Grande Roue de Montréal. This tallest observation wheel in Canada with its 60-foot-tall Ferris wheel offers visitors stunning views over Montreal, as well as the St Lawrence River and across to Jean-Drapeau Park.

There is a solid mix of accommodation available in Old Montreal. Being so centrally located, most hotels do charge steeper rates, so it is generally not ideal if you are sticking to a budget. However, there are a few exceptions, so it’s worth taking a look in case you can snag a good deal.

For the most part, Vieux Montreal is perfect for those who are happy to spend a little extra to indulge in more high-end accommodation. The area is full of luxury hotels that blend seamlessly into the historic surroundings.  

Of course, with so many sights within walking distance of one another, this is the perfect location for those planning a shorter trip. In which case, you may well want to consider splurging on a fancier hotel if you are only staying for a couple of days. 

Stay In Old Montreal If it is your first time visiting Montreal; you travel without a car; you are planning a shorter trip; you want to stay somewhere with a wonderful historic atmosphere; you are planning a romantic break; you want to stay right at the heart of the city center;

Best places to stay in Old Montreal:

luxury ($$$): InterContinental Montreal, an IHG Hotel This modernly-furnished hotel is connected to the Montreal Convention Centre, and only minutes away from historical Old Montreal. It offers on-site dining, a fitness center, an indoor saltwater pool, a sauna, and a beauty salon. It has guest rooms with a cable TV, an iPod dock, air conditioning, a desk, and a minibar.

mid-range ($$): LHotel This hotel offers an on-site bar, art gallery, free WiFi, and elegant rooms with large windows and antique furniture. It’s located within walking distance from Palais des Congrès Convention Centre, Place d’Armes Metro Station, Shopping and restaurants on St. Catherine Street.

budget ($): Auberge Saint-Paul Old Montreal This hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, a shared kitchen, lounge area. , and laundry facilities. It’s within a short stroll from tourist attractions such as Montreal Notre-Dame Basilica, Château Ramezay – Historic Site, and Museum of Montreal.

🔍MORE HOTELS IN OLD MONTREAL

See more:

2. Downtown, business and financial center of Montreal

Downtown, where to stay in Montreal for business

Downtown along with Old Montreal is the best area to stay in Montreal without a car. Right at the heart of Montreal, staying in the Downtown area will have you will be located within comfortable walking distance from city’s top attractions, as well as bustling shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife, all

If you love the super urban vibe, then Downtown Montreal has that aesthetic in spades. The business and financial center of Montreal, Downtown is populated by soaring skyscrapers and shining hyper-modern buildings. If you are visiting Montreal for Business, you will likely be spending a lot of time here. 

If you do find yourself wanting an escape from all the concrete and crowds, the pretty cobblestone streets of Old Montreal are just a short walk away to the east. 

Downtown is one of Montreal’s primary commercial hubs. If you love shopping, then this is an amazing location for you. You will find numerous shopping centers and malls to enjoy browsing the stores of in style.

Meanwhile, the streets are lined with numerous big-name brands and chain stores, especially along Sainte-Catherine Street, Montréal’s main commercial artery; and Crescent Street, the epicenter of downtown Montréal nightlife.

The Underground City is also located at the south end of Downtown. Ideal if you are looking for a more memorable shopping experience. 

Downtown is even home to one of Montreal’s principal sports and events venues, the Bell Centre. Hosting everything from ice hockey, to concerts and theatrical performances, there’s always something going on at Centre Bell. 

If wandering around museums is your thing, Downtown Montreal has more than enough to keep you busy. 

The McCord Museum hosts an eclectic array of exhibits on locally significant topics, from national sports to Canada’s indigenous cultures. Meanwhile, the Musée Grévin Montreal is a fun waxworks museum, where you can take pictures with numerous famous and political figures. 

The gorgeous Victorian-style building of McGill University’s Redpath Museum, a museum of natural history belonging to McGill University and set on the campus of the university is also worth visiting!

If you love art, you will find The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) which is one of the 10 most-visited museums in North America, founded in 1860; and the Musée D’art Contemporain de Montréal, a contemporary art museum.

For something a bit more off-beat, the Barbie Expo is worth a look. Boasting over a thousand dolls, dressed in designer, haute couture outfits, this is especially interesting for anyone with a passion for fashion. 

The southern end of Downtown is known as the Golden Square Mile. Developed in the Victorian era, the area is popular for its beautiful period architecture. In addition to the lovely facades, the Golden Mile boasts a selection of amazing but relaxed restaurants and cafes.

The Golden Mile is also home to several art galleries, including the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Just down the road is the NuEdge Contemporary Art Gallery, so you can get your fill of a broad range of art styles in a single afternoon. 

Within downtown Montreal, you can also find Montreal’s Chinatown, a vibrant area with colorful shops, restaurants, and is bounded by four monumental gates, hand-made by Chinese workers in the 19th century.

Another interesting place to shop and enjoy the stunning views of the city is the Place Ville Marie with the 46th-floor Observatory.

Being the most central location in the city, and popular with high flying businessmen, accommodation in the Downtown Area can get pretty pricey. You will mostly be able to choose from higher-end, contemporary hotels. If hyper-modern luxury is what you are after, this is where you will find it.

Stay In Downtown If you are visiting Montreal on a business trip; you travel without a car; you want to stay as central as possible; you have a more generous budget; you love to spend your vacation hitting the shops; you are attending an event at the center bell.

Best places to stay in Downtown Montreal, Canada:

luxury ($$$): The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal This 5-star hotel offers spacious rooms with a marble bathroom with heated floors, a 19-inch flat-screen TV, a digital control of lights and curtains, automatic toilets, a minibar and flat-screen TV in the bedroom, and free wifi. It has a fitness center, a business center, a 24-hour concierge service, and an on-site restaurant that serves contemporary French cuisine.

mid-range ($$): Hilton Garden Inn Montreal Centre-Ville This 4-star hotel is located within walking distance from Place-des-Arts Metro Station, and Montreal’s Underground City. It offers buffet breakfasts, a gym, a sauna, a hot tub. It features spacious rooms with free WiFi, a 32-inch flat-screen cable TV, a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker, a desk, and a chair.

budget ($): Hotel St-Denis This hotel offers bright and simply furnished rooms with cable TVs, work desks, coffee makers, and hair dryers. Close to the Berri-UQAM Subway Station, the historic St-Denis Theatre, and the Place des Arts Performing Arts Center.

🔍MORE HOTELS IN DOWNTOWN

3. Latin Quarter, best place to stay in Montreal for nightlife

Latin Quarter, where to stay in Montreal for nightlife

The Northern end of downtown is known for being Montreal’s Latin Quarter (Quartier des Spectacles). If you are wondering where to stay in Montreal to get the best of both city-center convenience and bustling nightlife, Quartier des Spectacles is your best bet. 

The Latin Quarter is also the location of Montreal’s Red-Light District. As such, you will find a plethora of thrilling clubs and bars to party away your nights. The Latin Quarter even borders Montreal’s Gay Village, the city’s primary nightlife district.

Having both of Montreal’s top party neighborhoods so close together makes it super easy for revelers to move between the two. Staying in either neighborhood means you will be on the doorstep of all the best parties Montreal has to offer. 

At night, the Luminous Pathway is illuminated in more than 30 public spaces and cultural venues like concert halls, exhibition spaces, theatres. You can find information and tickets for Montréal’s cultural events at La Vitrine, a box office at Latin Quarter’s center.

Aside from nightlife, the Quartier Des Spectacles is known for being Montreal’s center for culture and the arts. In addition to its many galleries, theatres, and concert halls, the Quartier Des Spectacles is host to a number of artsy events throughout the year.

The Place des Festivals, in the southern end of the district, is a popular, open-air venue that has a bursting calendar of installations and events. As the name suggests, the Place des Festivales acts as a center point for the many festivals that take place in the Latin Quarter throughout the year.

The Place des Arts are directly across the street. A more traditional, indoor events hall, the Place Des Arts hosts a range of performances from orchestral concerts to opera to comedy. 

Located between several universities including the University of Quebec, the Quartier des Spectacles has a thriving student population. If you are deciding where to stay in Montreal whilst visiting a friend who studies in the city, you may well find they live near the Latin quarter. 

Being located in Downtown Montreal, some of the hotels here can get pretty expensive. However, there’s a surprisingly good mix of luxury and affordable options with some quality budget hotels in the area. 

Stay In Quartier Des Spectacles – Latin Quarter If you want to stay at the heart of Montreal’s nightlife, you love the arts, you want to stay super close to the city center, you are visiting a student at one of Montreal’s universities.

Best places to stay in Montreal in Latin Quarter:

🔍MORE HOTELS IN LATIN QUARTER

4. Plateau Mont-Royal, best area to stay in Montreal for a family

 Plateau Mont-Royal, where to stay in Montreal for a family

Plateau Mont-Royal is one of the most laid-back neighborhoods in the city center. Just outside of downtown Montreal, Plateau Mont-Royal offers a residential, community vibe, whilst still boasting plenty to keep you entertained. 

Thought by many to be one of the prettiest areas of Montreal, the houses and buildings of Plateau Mont-Royal are an attraction in themselves. The streets are lined with beautiful, vibrant townhouses, whilst many of the walls have been turned into canvas’ for local street artists.

Don’t worry that you’ll be surrounded by grimy graffiti though. Home to the biggest artist community in Canada, the street art here makes the area into a huge open-air gallery. You can take in the colorful streets and wonderful street art as you browse the local shops and galleries.

Other interesting places to visit are the Rialto Theatre, an early 20th-century movie theatre designed in the Beaux-Arts style; Theatre de Verdure, and the 1872 Saint-Jean-Baptiste Roman Catholic church.

Meanwhile, there are plenty of trendy cafes and bars to relax in when you need a break. The area is also close enough to Montreal’s thriving nightlife districts that there is plenty to keep you entertained after dark. 

Saint Laurent Boulevard, which leads into Plateau Mont-Royal from the Latin Quarter is lined with hip bars. Ideal if you want to dabble in Montreal’s nightlife whilst avoiding the boisterous crowds. 

Plateau Mont-Royal is home to some of Montreal’s diaspora neighborhoods. Little Portugal is a charming, leafy public square surrounded by local Portuguese businesses and restaurants. It’s a lovely spot to relax and enjoy some delicious authentic Portuguese food. 

Historically, there has been a strong Jewish presence in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal too. This heritage is evident in Schwartz’s Montreal Hebrew Delicatessen. One of the oldest delis in all of Canada, Schwartz’s is an icon of the city and highly popular with both locals and tourists. 

Being just a short walk from Jeanne-Manc park and the base of Mont-Royal, Schwartz’s is a great place to stop to pick up a picnic lunch to enjoy in the nearby greenspaces.

Speaking of green space, Plateau Mont-Royal’s numerous open parks like Parc Sir-Wilfrid-Laurier, La Fontaine Park, and proximity to Mount Royal makes this a great place to visit for those traveling with children. There’s plenty of open space for kids to run around and work off some energy.

Meanwhile, it is close enough to the attractions of the city center that you don’t have to worry about shepherding children across the city to the various tourist sites. 

Stay In Plateau Mont-Royal If you are traveling with children, access to green space is a priority; you want to stay close to the city center but away from the crowds of the downtown area;

Best Places to Stay in Plateau Mont-Royal:

🔍MORE HOTELS IN PLATEAU MONT-ROYRAL

5. Mile End, best area to stay in Montreal for foodies

Mile End, where to stay in Montreal for foodies

Technically part of Plateau Mont-Royal, Mile End sits at the far western side of the district, somewhat removed from the city centre. A little more residential than some of the other Montreal neighborhoods on this list, it’s perfect for anyone who prefers a more relaxed atmosphere. 

Far from a sleepy suburb though, Mile End is bursting with trendy cafes, boutiques, and local galleries. Plateau Mont-Royal’s arts community extends into Mile End, bringing with them the stunning street art and creative style imbued throughout the bars and restaurants.

Mile End has been growing into an increasingly trendy neighbourhood in recent years, appealing to the hipster crowd. Whilst there is a certain gentrified air to it all, there is still enough authenticity to the small stores and independent coffee shops that it keeps the laid-back atmosphere. 

Foodies know Mile End for being the best place in Montreal to get a bagel. This may seem like a very niche culinary offering, but it owes to the area’s Jewish heritage and many of the bakeries date back to the early 1900s.

Conveniently located at the base of Mount Royal Park, grab your bagel to-go and enjoy a delicious picnic at the peak of the forested hill. Nothing beats a delicious lunch accompanied by stunning panoramic views across the entire city of Montreal.

Although it’s outside of the city centre, Mile End’s fashionable reputation keeps it from falling into the budget category as far as accommodation is concerned. From fashionable apartments to boutique hotels, the offerings here demand decidedly mid-range to luxury prices.

Whilst there are certainly a few good affordable options if you know where to look, if you were expecting Mile End to be awash with budget hotels you may be disappointed. 

Stay In Mile End If you love food; you don’t mind being a little bit away from the city center, you prefer to stay in a more laid-back area, staying in one of the trendiest areas of Montreal is ideal, you really love bagels.

Best Places to Stay in Montreal in Mile End:

🔍FIND BEST HOTELS IN MILE END

6. Gay Village, vibrant nightlife, LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood

Gay Village, vibrant nightlife, LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood

If you are looking for a party, you can’t beat Montreal’s Gay Village. Immediately north of the downtown area, the Gay Village is super central, in addition to being the city’s top nightlife district

As the name suggests, this is the main hub for Montreal’s LGBTQ community. Saint Catherine Street in particular is lined with gay bars and clubs, where you can enjoy some of Montreal’s most colorful nightlife. Being a completely pedestrian street, the whole lane becomes one big party every night. 

If you are visiting Montreal in the summertime, try to plan your trip to coincide with Montreal’s Pride celebrations. Usually hosted in July or August, the whole district transforms into a vibrant party venue, with decorations, parades, and various exciting events. 

Of course, if you are not part of the LGBTQ community, there is still plenty of reason to consider staying in Montreal’s Gay Village. The bustling nightlife is open to everyone and the party atmosphere that permeates the streets is definitely something to experience. 

The Gay Village also borders the Latin quarter of Downtown. Montreal’s two top nightlife districts blend into one another seamlessly, so you can plan a truly epic bar crawl with minimal effort. 

Don’t worry that you will get bored during the daytime though, as there’s plenty to do whilst the sun is up. Away from the main party street, you will find a treasure trove of off-piste boutiques, quaint antique shops, and unique galleries.

One gallery in particular worth visiting is Galerie Blanc on Saint Catherine Street. Unique for being completely open-air, the works are displayed on free-standing walls, in what is essentially a small public square. 

Just a short walk north of the village is the Parc du Pied-du-Courant. This riverside community park boasts a sandy artificial beach, bars, restaurants, and a local crafts market every Sunday. 

On your way to the park, you will pass by several historic buildings, including the Pied-du-Courant Prison. The grand stone building has been converted into a museum, so it’s well worth stopping by to take in some of the area’s history. 

Despite still being a very central location, accommodation in the Gay Village area is surprisingly affordable. There are some really lovely hotels here for very reasonable prices. 

If you are hoping to stay close to the city center but don’t have the budget to spend on the pricier Downtown or Old Montreal hotels, the Gay Village is a great location to consider.

Of course, during the time surrounding Montreal’s Pride Celebrations the area gets particularly popular, and prices go through the roof. If you are planning to visit around July or August you will want to book well in advance, or even consider elsewhere if affordability is your priority.

Stay In Gay Village If vibrant nightlife is a priority for you, and explicitly LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood is a plus, you want to stay close to the city centre without breaking the bank, you are attending the PRIDE festivities.

Best Places to Stay in Gay Village:

🔍MORE HOTELS IN GAY VILLAGE

7. Rosemont La Petite Patrie, for local vibe

Rosemont La Petite Patrie, where to stay in Montreal for local vibe

Rosemont La Petite Patrie is a large suburban neighborhood on the edge of the city centre. Removed from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Montreal, Rosemont La Petite Patrie has a more sedate and residential vibe, whilst still having plenty to attract visitors. 

With more than fifty parks and community gardens, the sheer amount of greenspace in Rosemont La Petite Patrie lends it the reputation as one of the prettiest Montreal neighbourhoods. A large portion of the north of the area is taken up by Montreal Botanical Garden.

The Montreal Botanical Garden is home to more than just stunning plants. There are also exquisite sculptures, lantern displays, and numerous themed gardens. The complex also boasts an insectarium and the Biodome museum of natural science. 

The Botanical Gardens host an array of events throughout the year, so you should definitely check ahead to see what’s on during your stay in Montreal. If you visit in autumn, you may be lucky enough to attend the magical Chinese Lantern Festival and appreciate the elaborate illuminations. 

The south end of Rosemont La Petite Prairie is Montreal’s Little Italy. If you want to sample some of the best Italian food that Montreal has to offer, then head to any of the charming restaurants and pizzerias in the area. 

Little Italy is also where you will find the Jean Talon Market. The open-air food markets sell everything from fresh, local produce to delicious street food, plants, and flowers. As the largest open-air market in North America, it is definitely worth visiting. 

Even though Rosemont La Petite Patrie is a little removed from the main tourist districts of downtown, you don’t have to worry about missing out on sightseeing. There are plenty of metro stations throughout the neighborhood that can have you in downtown in just a few minutes. 

Being further from the city center does mean that you won’t have to fork out downtown prices for accommodation. Being more residential, there are fewer options to choose from than the tourist centric districts, but you can stay in some super stylish hotels and comfortable B&Bs very affordably.

Stay In Rosemont La Petite Patrie If you want to stay in a more relaxed, residential area, you don’t mind being a little further from the attractions of the Downtown area, and it’s not your first stay in Montreal.

🔍MORE HOTELS IN MONTREAL BOTANIC GARDEN

8. Underground City, unique location

Underground City, where to stay in Montreal in a unique location

If you are looking for somewhere really different and unique to spend your stay in Montreal, the Underground City is a great place to consider. Although the concept of a completely subterranean city seems futuristic, it was actually established back in the sixties and has been growing ever since.

This sprawling underground network of tunnels connects shopping centers, offices, food courts, and restaurants. In recent years, numerous hotels have joined the Underground City, meaning you can actually stay in the Underground City itself.

With everything you need contained within the Underground City, it would be totally possible to simply stay indoors for the entirety of your vacation. If you are visiting in winter and hate the wet and cold weather, then this would be a perfect way to completely avoid going outside. 

Of course, if you did want to venture to surface level Montreal, you will be ideally located to explore the city. The Underground City is right in the centre of Montreal, at the border between Downtown and Old Montreal.

You will have plenty of popular attractions within walking distance of the Underground City. If you want to visit something a little further away, there are almost sixty metro stations accessible from the Underground network.

If you get claustrophobic easily, this probably isn’t the best place for you, but if you want to be able to say you have stayed in a subterranean metropolis then this is an amazing location to consider. 

Stay In Underground City If You want to stay in a really unique location, Staying close to the city center is essential, Shopping is your priority, You are visiting in the winter and will take any opportunity to avoid the harsh Canadian weather.

Best Places to Stay in Montreal in Underground City:

🔍MORE HOTELS IN UNDERGROUND CITY

9. Montreal Airport

 Montreal Airport

If you have a late arrival or early departure, staying near the airport is a smart choice. Below are my recommendations of the best hotels to stay near Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport:

luxury ($$$): Marriott Montreal Airport In-Terminal Hotel This 4-star hotel is connected to Montreal International Airport, it offers an on-site restaurant, an indoor pool with a hot tub, free WiFi in public areas, fitness and business facilities. It has rooms with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, in-room safes, and coffee makers with free coffee and tea.

mid-range ($$): Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Montreal Airport This 3-star hotel offers shuttle bus services from/to Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. It features modern rooms with a flat-screen TV, tea- and coffee-making facilities, a microwave, and a small refrigerator in some rooms.

budget ($): Comfort Inn Airport Dorval this pet-friendly hotel is 3 km from Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, offers free WiFi, and air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen cable TV, a refrigerator, and microwave.

Where should I stay in Montreal for the first time?

Old Montréal (Vieux-Montréal) is the best area to stay in Montreal for tourist, especially for first-timers. If you book a hotel here, you will be in the heart of the city, within walking to many tourist attractions, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shops.

What are the best areas to stay in Montreal?

Old Montreal, Downtown, Latin Quarter, Plateau Mont-Royal, Mile End, Gay Village, Rosemont La Petite Patrie, and Underground City are the best areas to stay in Montreal because they are the most popular areas for tourists that offer many things to do and see.

Where should I stay in Montreal without a car?

Without a doubt, Old Montreal and the Downtown are the best places to book hotels if you travel without a car. You can easily get around by foot or by its extensive public transportation including metro and bus.

Where to stay in Montreal with a car?

Most hotels in Old Town and Downtown offer paid parking. If you are looking for a hotel with free car parking in Montreal, look into À l’Adresse du Centre-Ville and Le Dauphin Montréal-Longueuil.

Is it better to stay in downtown or Old Montreal?

Both Downtown and Old Montreal are best for first-timers. Downtown has better shopping and dining options. Old Montreal offers a more scenic and romantic vibe with many narrow cobblestone streets, and old buildings. 

What is the safest area to stay in Montreal?

Old Montreal and Downtown are the safest places to stay in Montreal for tourists with plenty of things to do and see. It is recommended to always practice common sense as you travel to any big city. 

Where not to stay in Montreal?

You should avoid Montreal Nord, Wellington-St, Notre Dame Quest, and The Red Light district at night. You should also always stay alert, and pay attention to your surroundings.

See more: Where to Stay in Ottawa

As the largest French-speaking city in Canada, Montreal boasts the best of that distinct Canadian blend of French and North American culture. There are tons to see and do here, and the many districts each have their own unique flares. With historical port districts to vibrant party neighborhoods, there is an aspect of Montreal to suit every visitor.

Overall, Old Montreal is the best area to stay in Montreal for first-timers due to its central location. If you stay here, you will be located in the middle of action, within walking distance to the top sights, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shops.

Now as you know where to stay in Montreal, you should have a good idea of which district would be perfect for you to consider for your trip. All that’s left to do is pick out your ideal hotel and get to booking your perfect city vacation. 

Leave a Comment