Montreal is a city that knows how to charm its visitors. With three days at your disposal, you can experience the essence of this place—delicious food, rich culture, and a blend of history and modernity. Forget about your usual tourist traps. Let’s dig into the heart of Montreal and explore its diverse neighborhoods, local cuisine, and unique activities. Ready for an adventure? Grab your walking shoes and let’s go.
Day 1: Old Montreal and the downtown core
Start your first day in Old Montreal, where cobblestone streets whisper tales of yesteryears. You’ll want to get here early to beat the crowds. Plan to start your day around 9 AM.
- Morning: Stroll through Old Montreal - Make your way to Notre-Dame Basilica (30-minute visit). Check out its stunning interior and snap a few photos because, let’s face it, your Instagram needs some sprucing up.
- 10:30 AM: Walk around Place Jacques-Cartier, grab a coffee from Olive et Gourmando, and people-watch while pretending to know French.
- 11:30 AM: Visit the Montreal Science Centre (1-2 hours). Get your inner nerd on with interactive exhibits.
By noon, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Head over to the downtown area for lunch.
- Lunch: Satisfy your cravings at Schwartz's Deli for the best smoked meat sandwich. Don’t forget to order a side of pickles—your taste buds will thank you.
After lunch, it’s time for some culture. Make your way to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (about a 15-minute walk from Schwartz's) for a couple of hours of art appreciation.
- 3 PM: Explore the museum, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a special exhibition. Avoid the urge to cry in front of the masterpieces—nobody likes a dramatic tourist.
- 5 PM: Stroll down Saint Catherine Street for some shopping or window shopping, depending on your budget.
As evening approaches, head to the Plateau neighborhood for dinner.
- Dinner: Try La Banquise for poutine that dreams are made of. You can thank me later.
Wrap up your night with a walk in the area, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. If you’re still upright, check out a local bar for a nightcap.
Day 2: Food and art in Mile End and Plateau
Day two should be a little more relaxed. Start your day late, around 10 AM, because you deserve it.
- Brunch: Go to Bagel Etc. for the best bagels in town. Pair it with a side of coffee and prepare for a food coma.
- 11:30 AM: After brunch, wander around the Mile End neighborhood. Check out local shops like La Finca and Drawn & Quarterly for quirky finds and indie books.
At around 1 PM, it’s time for some art immersion.
- 1 PM: Visit the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art. Spend a couple of hours exploring avant-garde pieces that will make you rethink your life choices.
- 3 PM: Take a break and grab some coffee at Café Olimpico, a local favorite.
After recharging, head to the Plateau area for a unique experience.
- 4 PM: Participate in a street art tour. Many local guides offer these tours, and you’ll see murals that tell the story of this city.
- 6 PM: Dinner time! Try Le Majestique for a seafood experience that’ll make you feel fancy without breaking the bank.
After dinner, consider catching a show at Place des Arts or exploring the nightlife on Saint Laurent Boulevard.
Day 3: Nature and relaxation
For your final day, it’s time to enjoy some of Montreal’s natural beauty. Aim to start around 9 AM.
- Morning: Head to Mont Royal Park for a morning hike. The view from the top is worth every step (and every calorie you burned). Grab a coffee from the kiosk at the park.
- 11 AM: Spend some time relaxing at Beaver Lake, where you can enjoy the scenery and pretend you're in a nature documentary.
By noon, it’s time to refuel.
- Lunch: Visit Marché Jean-Talon. This local market has everything from fresh produce to amazing snacks. Grab a bite from one of the food vendors.
After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Little Italy. Check out the stunning Church of the Madonna della Difesa and maybe even pick up some pastries at a local bakery.
- 3 PM: If you’re a fan of history, stop by the Montreal Insectarium or the Botanical Garden nearby.
- 5 PM: Head back to your hotel to pack or relax. You deserve it after three days of non-stop fun.
For your final dinner, treat yourself at Toqué! for a memorable fine dining experience. You’ll leave with a full belly and a heart full of memories.
With your three days in Montreal wrapping up, you might wonder how you can fit all this into a single trip. Spoiler: You can’t. But now you have a taste of what makes this city special. So go ahead, book that return flight, and start planning your next visit. Montreal is waiting for you!
