Sitting snugly between the downtown area of Montreal and the shores of the Saint Lawrence River, Old Montreal is one of the oldest urban areas in North America. Originally established as a 17th-century French fur-trading post, Old Montreal has a rich cultural heritage with remarkable archaeological and historical sites around every corner. This historic district is also overflowing with first-class museums, excellent art galleries and top-notch eateries serving a delicious selection of local and international cuisine – so there's something for everyone!Easily explored on foot, Old Montreal is bursting with European charm. Although the original stone ramparts are long gone, the architecture and narrow cobblestone streets ensure the historic feel of this part of the city is as strong as ever. To quickly get to grips with your surroundings and discover the many secrets of this part of the city, avail of one of the guided or self-guided tours. Choose a traditional walking tour, take in the sights on a bicycle tour or zip through the quaint streets on a Segway.Take your time to soak up the atmosphere along the delightful Rue Saint-Paul. This paved street is the oldest in the city and is home to the Bonsecours Market as well as a range of gorgeous artisan boutiques.If you’re into history and archaeology, you've struck gold in Old Montreal. See where it all began at the Pointe-à-Callière, Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History. Perched on top of the city’s birthplace, this archaeological museum imaginatively charts the history of the city through original excavation sites. Showcasing a selection of artefacts from the indigenous Amerindian peoples, this is a must on any cultural to-do list.Continue the theme by examining a wealth of Montreal treasures at the impressive Château Ramezay before making the short walk to the Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum to see the foundations of the city’s first stone chapel.Examine the edgy artwork at the contemporary DHC/ART and then head straight to Cabaret du Roy in the Bonsecours Market for the most exquisite local cuisine. After dinner, catch a show at the Centaur Theatre before wrapping up your night in true Montreal style with a horse-drawn calèche ride through the glittering city streets. Magical!
Old Montreal
Popular places to visit
Old Port of Montreal
Historic architecture, modern attractions and an exciting calendar of festivals make it impossible to get bored at this lively and scenic riverfront space.
Notre Dame Basilica
Welcoming all kinds of pilgrims from popes to pop stars, this gorgeous basilica should definitely appear on your Montreal itinerary.
Place d'Armes
Learn about the local history of Montreal with a stop at Place d'Armes. Experience the great live music and lively festivals in this vibrant area.
Montreal City Hall
After visiting Montreal City Hall, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Montreal. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.
Jacques Cartier Square
Learn about the local history of Montreal with a stop at Jacques Cartier Square. Discover the lively festivals and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.
Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History
You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History in Montreal. Discover the lively festivals and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.
Things to do
Montreal Old Port: Craft Brewery and Beer Tasting Tour
Beyond the Basilica Walking Tour by Spade & Palacio
Le Bateau-Mouche Sightseeing Cruise in Montreal
Gourmet 5-Course Dinner Cruise in Montreal
Small-Group Sightseeing Tour of Montreal
Old Montreal Private Walking Tour
Top hotels in Old Montreal
Reviewed on 13 Jun,2024
Reviewed on 15 Jun,2024
Reviewed on 12 Jun,2024
Reviewed on 9 Jun,2024
Reviewed on 9 Jun,2024
Reviewed on 12 Jun,2024
Other neighbourhoods around Old Montreal
Ville-Marie
Known for its fascinating museums, stunning cathedral and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Ville-Marie. Top attractions like Old Port of Montreal and Notre Dame Basilica are major draws. Catch the metro at Champ-de-Mars Station or Jean-Drapeau Station to see more of the city.
Quartier des Spectacles
Cosy cafes, live music and vibrant jazz clubs are just a few top things to explore in Quartier des Spectacles. A visit to Complexe Desjardins or Place des Arts might round out your trip, and you can jump aboard the metro at Place des Arts Station or Saint Laurent Station to get around town.
Downtown Montreal
Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Montreal. Check out top attractions like Bell Centre and The Underground City, and jump on the metro at Peel Station or McGill Station to see more of the city.
The Village
Visitors often come to The Village for its abundant dining options, but many stay to explore sights like Sainte-Catherine Street and L'atelier de sculpture du Village. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you take a ride at Beaudry Station.
Griffintown
While you're in Griffintown, take in top sights like Saint-Paul Street and jump on the metro at Griffintown-Bernard-Landry Station to see more of the city.
Golden Square Mile
Visitors to Golden Square Mile love its popular shops, and you can check out Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and The Underground City. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at Peel Station.
- Places of interest
- Hotels in Old Montreal by Star Rating
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- Destinations near Montreal