Montreal may well be Eastern Canada’s most popular city to visit, and it’s hard to argue why.
Quaint neighborhoods, architecture, and cobblestone streets in Old Montreal will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time – or at least jet-setted to France.
Good food and bar options will please any foodie. And Montreal’s ultra-hip scene offers plenty of things to see and do, making a visit to Montreal an excellent weekend getaway.
Depending on the nature of your visit, certain neighborhoods be will better suited to your interests and it may be hard to choose where to stay in Montreal. Are you looking to explore Montreal’s top tourist attractions? Or do you want to stay in the coolest and trendiest district? Perhaps you’re looking to enjoy Montreal’s legendary nightlife scene?
In this neighborhood guide, we will cover where to stay in Montreal. We also include what to do in Montreal based on each our neighborhood picks.
Where to Stay in Montreal
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our best recommendations for the best places to stay in Montreal.
If you plan to stay at a hostel, make sure to check out our guide to Montreal’s best hostels too.
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
Best Hostel in Montreal: M Montreal
Modern accommodations housed in a historic building, M Montreal is the best hostel in Montreal. Located in the center of The Village, this hostel is within walking distance of the city’s best bars and hottest clubs.
Enjoy comfortable dorms or spacious private rooms at this oasis in the city.
Best Hotel in Montreal: Hotel Épik Montréal
In the heart of Old Montreal, housed in a historic building is the modern and rustic Hotel Épik Montréal. Luxurious and urban, this hotel features stylish décor, high-end amenities and a relaxing atmosphere.
Walking distance to many of Montreal’s most noteworthy attractions, you won’t find a better boutique hotel in Old Montreal.
Best Airbnb in The Village: Bright and Cosy Loft Studio
Located just steps away from the famous Bell Center, this cozy condo is ideal for a couple or a solo travellers. The modern loft has been decorated with an eye for detail and is super welcoming. Thanks to the big windows, it’s a place flooded with light, which gives the home a very comfy and homely vibe. The location is close to Beaudry Metro and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious dining options. It’s a very convenient base to check out Montreal’s nightlife while still being tucked away in a quiet side street.
Bright and Cosy Loft Studio is one of our favourites in Montreal but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Old Montreal
Old Montreal (or Vieux-Montreal) is undoubtedly the heart of the city and is our top pick for where to stay in Montreal for first-timers. The oldest district in the city, Old Montreal was founded as a fur trading post by Samuel de Champlain in the early-17th century.
Griffintown
Close to Montreal’s main commercial areas, Griffintown is a neighbourhood with all the perks of downtown without the high prices. A former blue-collar neighbourhood, Griffintown was home to a high concentration of heavy industry and factory warehouses.
The Village
Home to Montreal’s lively LGBTQ community, Gay Village, or simple The Village (Le Village) is where you’ll find the hottest nightlife scene in town, no matter your sexual orientation.
Le Plateau
Le Plateau is one of Montreal’s coolest and most famous neighbourhoods. Known for its colourful row houses with wrought-iron staircases, this neighbourhood is home to the largest number of artists per capita in Canada.
Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie
Located in the centre-east of the city is the peaceful and residential borough of Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie. Home to a series of urban villages, more than 50 parks and a myriad of community gardens, these two neighbourhoods have a very distinct vibe and flare. This area is our top pick for where to stay in Montreal for families.
Montreal is the cultural, economic and social centre of the Province of Quebec. The second largest city in Canada, Montreal is the largest francophone city in the Americas. More than 1.7 million people call the city home, with more than 4 million dwelling in the urban area.
Situated on an island between the Ottawa River and the mighty Saint Lawrence, Montreal is a city comprised of 19 boroughs or arrondissements.
These boroughs are further divided into neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct energy, population, history, architecture and flare. Exploring at least three or four districts on your visit will give you the chance to experience the best of Montreal.
The heart of Montreal is Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal). The oldest district in the city, here you’ll find quaint cobblestone streets, stunning architecture and many of the city’s top tourist attractions, which makes it our top pick for where to stay in Montreal for your first time.
For a lively and exciting night on the town, head to The Village. Home to Montreal’s hottest clubs, trendiest restaurants and its vibrant LGBTQ community, The Village is the city’s top destination for a great night out.
Heading northwest of the Village you’ll find one of Montreal’s coolest neighbourhoods, Le Plateau. Famous for its colourful row houses, life in this area revolves around good food, great drinks, and an ultra-hip scene.
Just beyond Le Plateau is Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie. A trendy neighbourhood, Rosemont-La Petite Patrie is one of the greenest areas of Montreal, which is why this is our pick for where to stay in Montreal for families or nature lovers.
And finally, located on the southwest edge of downtown is Griffintown. A former blue-collar neighbourhood, it’s now one of Montreal’s up-and-coming spots. Griffintown is within walking distance to some of Montreal’s most famous locations. Here, you can enjoy all the perks of being downtown without the high prices.
Still not sure where to stay in Montreal? Keep reading as we break down the top five neighbourhoods in the city.
Montreal’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Montreal boasts an extensive public transit system that includes the third busiest metro (subway) in North America. This far-reaching and efficient network is clean, safe, and is one of the easiest and best ways to explore the different areas of Montreal. No matter what your travel goals are, there’s a neighbourhood in Montreal that’s perfect for you.
To help you plan your visit to Montreal, this guide will break down the top five neighbourhoods by interest. Read on to find the best neighbourhood for your stay!
1. Old Montreal/Vieux-Montréal – Where to Stay in Montreal for the First Time
Old Montreal (or Vieux-Montreal) is undoubtedly the heart of the city. The oldest district in the city, Old Montreal was founded as a fur trading post by Samuel de Champlain in the early-17th century.
Today, this neighbourhood maintains much of its old-world charm with quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful historic buildings. This is a district where antiquity and modern design meld seamlessly.
Home to Montreal’s major tourist attractions, Old Montreal is perfect for visitors who are interested in exploring the city on foot. With picturesque pedestrian streets and beautiful cultural sights, this neighbourhood is a wonderful base for your first visit to Montreal.
Keep reading for out top picks on where to stay in Old Montreal. There are some lovely Airbnbs in this area.
Best Hotel in Old Montreal/Vieux-Montréal: Hotel Épik Montréal
In the heart of Old Montreal, housed in a historic building is the modern and rustic Hotel Épik Montréal. Luxurious and urban, this hotel features stylish décor, high-end amenities and a relaxing atmosphere.
Walking distance to many of Montreal’s most noteworthy attractions, this is the best boutique hotel in Old Montreal.
Best Airbnb in Old Montreal/Vieux-Montréal: Urban oasis in the historic district
This picturesque apartment located on a cobblestone street in the historic corner in Old Montreal is one of the best Airbnbs in Canada because of its location in the city. With two bedrooms and bathrooms, a large living area with a fireplace, Sound Station, and a private outdoor terrace with a BBQ. The building sits across the street from Notre Dame de Bonsecours church which dates back to 1665, Bonsecours Market which dates back to 1847 and Maison Pierre de Calvet from 1725.
Urban oasis in the historic district is one of our favourites in Montreal but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Old Montreal/Vieux-Montréal: Auberge Saint-Paul Hostel
A short walk from Montreal’s top attractions is Auberge Saint-Paul Hostel. Ideally located near Montreal’s Old Port, this hostel is housed in one of the town’s beautiful historic buildings.
Featuring spacious rooms, up to date amenities, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, you won’t find a better hostel in Old Montreal.
Auberge Saint-Paul Hostel is one of our favourites in Montreal but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Top Things to do in Old Montreal/Vieux-Montréal
- Be amazed by Notre-Dame Basilica, the city’s most spectacular church and one of the largest in North America.
- Visit Point-a-Calliere Museum, a modern museum built above the ruins of Montreal’s first settlement.
- Take an enchanting horse-drawn carriage ride around Old Montreal. Carriages leave from Place d’Armes and Place Jacques Cartier.
- Explore the Old Port (Vieux-Port), a large waterfront park that is home to many attractions including Cirque du Soleil and the Clock Tower.
- Walk down Place Jacques-Cartier, a pedestrian street lined with street artists, musicians, fine restaurants and delightful art galleries.
- Enjoy a taste of Quebec from the 1700s at Le Saint-Gabriel restaurant.
- Wander Saint Laurent Boulevard, one of Montreal’s main commercial and cultural streets.
- Learn all about science and technology at the exciting and modern Montreal Science Centre.
- Explore the past at Chateau Ramezay Historic Site, a former Governor’s residence and gardens that home to historical artefacts from 18th century daily life.
We’ve tested countless packs over the years, and now we’ve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag.
Want more deetz on why we love it so damn much? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
Learn More Now!2. Griffintown – Where to Stay in Montreal on a Budget
Close to Montreal’s main commercial areas, Griffintown is a neighbourhood with all the perks of downtown without the high prices. A former blue-collar neighbourhood, Griffintown was home to a high concentration of heavy industry and factory warehouses. If you’re backpacking Montreal on a budget, this will be your go-to area!
Recent years have seen Griffintown undergo a significant revitalization. Factories and industrial machinery were replaced with bike paths, trendy restaurants, and pleasant green spaces.
One of Montreal’s up-and-coming districts, Griffintown is where you can find great value, good accommodation, and interesting cultural attractions.
Best Airbnb in Griffintown: Chic living space in the centre of town.
With 24-hour security and spectacular views of the city, this intimate and modern condo is conveniently located just a few minutes’ walk from fine dining, shopping, and nightlife. Guests have access to a modern and well-equipped gym, heated rooftop swimming pool (summer only) and rest area, and saunas and Jacuzzi.
Best Hostel in Griffintown: HI Montreal
Close to Old Montreal, downtown, and a myriad of metro stops, HI Montreal is a great option for visitors travelling on a budget.
Clean and comfortable, this hostel offers free wifi and breakfast, along with an on-site café and a fully equipped kitchen. With daily organized activities and a jovial atmosphere, you won’t find a friendlier welcome in Montreal.
Best Hotel in Griffintown: L’Hotel Particulier Griffintown
Housed in a historical building, this hotel is an urban B&B right in the heart of Griffintown. Just 10 minutes from the subway and 20 minutes from Old Montreal, this hotel is well situated to explore the neighbourhood.
Enjoy rustic décor and comfortable beds at this boutique B&B.
Top Things to do in Griffintown
- Explore the history of sound at Musée des ondes Emile Berliner, a museum dedicated to the audio industry and Emile Berliner, inventor of the Gramophone.
- Shop for unique pieces at Boutique La Gaillarde, a cooperative of young designers who fashion clothes, jewellery, accessories, and more from used clothing and recycled materials.
- Eat some of the best poutine in the city at Paul Patates.
- Enjoy cheap beer, good ribs and delicious food at Brasserie Capri, one of the oldest continuous bars in Montreal.
- See contemporary works of art at Parisian Laundry, an art gallery located in the Parisian Laundry building.
- Take a bike ride along the scenic and exquisite Lachine Canal.
- Enjoy a cool night out at Centre St-Amboise, an outdoor microbrewery hidden along an unlikely strip of the shipping yards.
- Eat a smoked meat sandwich, an iconic Montreal meal, at Quebec Smoked Meat.
3. The Village – Where to Stay in Montreal for the Best Nightlife
Home to Montreal’s lively LGBTQ community, Gay Village, or simple The Village (Le Village) is where you’ll find the hottest nightlife scene in town, no matter your sexual orientation.
Situated along Saint-Catherine Street between The Plateau and the St Lawrence River, The Village is a small neighbourhood that packs a big punch.
This exciting and vibrant neighbourhood is home to more than 80 bars and restaurants catering to anyone looking for a wild night out. Whether you want to dance the night away or drink on the city’s most scenic rooftop patio, The Village is where you’ll find Montreal’s most party spots.
That’s why it’s our pick for where to stay in Montreal for nightlife.
Best Hostel in The Village: M Montreal
Modern accommodations housed in a historic building, M Montreal is the place to be in The Village. Located in the centre of the neighbourhood, this hostel is within walking distance of the city’s best bars and hottest clubs. Enjoy comfortable dorms or spacious private rooms at this charming oasis.
Best Hotel in The Village: Hotel Visitel
This boutique hotel is ideal for couples looking to stay in The Village. Located on the edge of The Village, this hotel is just 15 minutes walk from Sainte-Catherine’s Street and Old Montreal.
Offering basic accommodations, this hotel boasts cosy rooms, comfortable beds, and free wifi throughout.
Best Airbnb in The Village: Bright and Cosy Loft Studio
Located just steps away from the famous Bell Center, this cozy condo is ideal for a couple or a solo travellers. The modern loft has been decorated with an eye for detail and is super welcoming. Thanks to the big windows, it’s a place flooded with light, which gives the home a very comfy and homely vibe. The location is close to Beaudry Metro and known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious dining options. It’s a very convenient base to check out Montreal’s nightlife while still being tucked away in a quiet side street.
Bright and Cosy Loft Studio is one of our favourites in Montreal but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Top Things to do in The Village
- Enjoy drinks on the terrace of Pub Sainte-Elisabeth, a unique Montreal hotspot that feels like a trendy greenhouse.
- Dance to your favourite tunes at Bar Le Saint-Sulpice, a large bar with three floors of music, dancing and more, each with its own unique vibe.
- Sample beers from Quebec and all over the world at Le Saint Bock, a brewpub that offers 20 beers on tap at all times.
- Enjoy drinks under the stars at Sky.
- Laugh your face off at La Comedie de Montreal.
- See the Boules Roses, a canopy of pink spheres that hang above a one-kilometre stretch of Saint Catherine’s Street.
- See extraordinary and legendary drag queen, Mado, perform.
- Browse the Amherst Street antique market to pick up a unique souvenir or two.
- Party in the streets during Montreal’s pride celebrations and parade (late-July/early-August), the world’s largest LGBTQ gathering in the francophone world.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected. It’s just that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Buy an eSIM!4. Le Plateau – The Coolest Place to Stay in Montreal
Le Plateau is one of Montreal’s coolest and most famous neighbourhoods. Known for its colourful row houses with wrought-iron staircases, this neighbourhood is home to the largest number of artists per capita in Canada.
Brightly painted and covered in funky murals, Le Plateau is as much a living gallery as it is a neighbourhood. An area where life revolves around the little pleasures, Le Plateau is where you’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, boutiques and cafes.
Enjoy great meals, delicious coffee, bright and cheerful scenery, and a laid-back atmosphere in Le Plateau, the ultra-hip and cultural heart of Montreal.
Best Airbnb in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal: Super Stylish Apartment
This gorgeous apartment is located in the heart of Plateau Mont-Royal, which makes it the perfect base to explore the neighborhood. The Airbnb itself is super modern, spacious and bright, thanks to lots of windows. You can enjoy a comfy bed, a brandnew and fully equipped kitchen, and even a little balcony where you can sip your first coffee in the morning. There’s an HD TV with Netlfix, high speed wifi and even a little workspace – ideal for Digital Nomads visiting Montreal! On top of that, you’re just meters from the nearest public transport station, which connects you efficiently to all other areas of Montreal.
Best Hostel in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal: Le Gite du Plateau Mont-Royal
Less than a 20-minute walk to all of Montreal’s major attractions, this hostel is located at the heart of Le Plateau. Enjoy comfortable accommodation, a stunning rooftop terrace, and an all-you-can-eat breakfast at this modern and joyful hostel.
With dorm-style accommodations and variety of private rooms, you’ll love all the options available to you at Le Gite du Plateau.
Best Hotel in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal: Hotel Kutuma
Hotel Kutuma is a four-star hotel that features spacious, fully equipped suites. Enjoy a full kitchen, luxurious bathroom, and relaxing atmosphere all just a short walk from the centre of the district.
This hotel is great for travellers or couples who want to enjoy the finer side of Montreal.
Top Things to do in Le Plateau
- Dine on a delicious smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz’s Montreal Hebrew Delicatessen, a Montreal institution famously frequented by author Mordecai Richler.
- Bike throughout this safe, clean, and pedestrianized district.
- See exhibits by local artists at Maison de la culture de Plateau-Mont-Royal
- Taste the best poutine in the city at La Banquise, where more than 25 varieties of this classic Quebecois fare are available.
- See the Rialto Theatre, an art deco picture house dating back at the early-1920s and one of Montreal’ most iconic buildings.
- Rest and relax in Parc Lafontaine, a well-manicured green space that features an artificial lake, bike paths and an outdoor amphitheatre.
- Catch a show at Theatre de Verdure, a 3,000 seat outdoor theatre that showcases dance, music, movies, and theatre throughout the summer.
- Enjoy the intimate and ultra-hip atmosphere at Bily Kun, a large bar and Plateau district favourite.
5. Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie – Where to Stay in Montreal for Families
Located in the centre-east of the city is the peaceful and residential borough of Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie. Home to a series of urban villages, more than 50 parks and a myriad of community gardens, these two neighbourhoods have a very distinct vibe and flare.
Well-connected to the centre and other parts of Montreal, Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie is the best place to stay in Montreal for families. Home to Little Italy and a delicious array of restaurants and eateries, there’s so much to see, do and explore in this trendy district.
From the largest public market in North America to the chic shopping district of Rue Saint-Hubert, you won’t run out of options in Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie.
Best Airbnb in Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie: Private and Spacious Vacation Home
This charming studio apartment is perfect for families. Old-Rosemont Is within walking distance from Plateau Mont-Royal and the Botanical Gardens, but far enough from crowds that its nice and quiet. Best of all, it’s in a safe neighborhood and the owner (who is always willing to help), lives in the same building.
Best Hostel in Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie: Pied-A-Terre Mont-Royal
A short 15-minute drive, Pied-A-Terre Mont-Royal is the closest hostel to Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie. Join a community of travellers, explorers, and nomads at this grassroots boutique hostel.
Close to major attractions, restaurants, grocery stores and bars, enjoy all the comforts of home at this centrally located hostel.
Best Hotel in Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie: Hotel Universel Montréal
Located just north of Montreal’s Botanical Garden, this contemporary hotel is the best option for families looking to stay in the Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie district.
Clean and comfortable, each room features relaxing beds and in-room coffee machines. Enjoy the indoor and seasonal outdoor pools at this four-star hotel in the city.
Top Things to do in Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie
- Browse the stalls and pick up a snack (or two) at Jean-Talon Market, a year-round indoor farmers market.
- Relax and play a game of bocce or two in Dante Park. Montreal Insectarium.
- Marvel at the glorious Church of Madonna della Difesa, an early-20th-century Romanesque church.
- Enjoy traditional Italian fare in Montreal’s bustling and vibrant Little Italy.
- See and smell the stunning blooms in the Montreal Botanical Garden.
- Enjoy a cup of tea and a moment of Zen at the 15-acre Japanese Garden.
- Learn to fly through the air with the greatest of ease by taking trapeze lessons at Trapezium.
- Sample Produits du terroir (local Quebec products) at Le Marché des Saveurs.
- Go window shopping on Rue Saint-Hubert, home to more than 400 boutiques.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Montreal
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Montreal and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Montreal
World Nomads’ mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently.
They’ve been doing it since 2002 – protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you.
Get a quote below or read our in-depth review!
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Montreal
Buzzing with excellent cultural activities, nightlife, and restaurants, there is plenty to do to keep you occupied for a few days in Montreal! We created this guide to help you choose the best neighborhood in Montreal based on your travel interests.
We know it can be overwhelming to plan a vacation, so hopefully this guide will help you out. If you’re still not sure where to stay in Montreal, our top hostel pick is M Montreal due to it’s location in the historical district and close proximity to awesome bars and restaurants.
Our top hotel pick is Hotel Épik Montréal, also located in the historical district. A great choice for couples, families, and anyone looking for a relaxed vacation.
Did we miss anything? Let us know below in the comments!!
Do you own or run a kick ass hostel? Want to be featured in this list? Get in touch at [email protected]
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
Such great work. Really appreciate you breaking down the best neighbourhoods in Montreal. I was so confused on where to go and what to do around here. Your article really really helped. Thank you so much 🙂
This is such a great website! Thank you so much! I am planning our first trip to Montreal & its overwhelming! i love you website! It’s very user friendly! I appreciate that you have hotels, etc linked to your articles! And, the pics are great too! Just wanted to let you know that you guys have really helped me!
We’re glad you enjoy the wbesite!