Old Montreal is undoubtedly the most famous
neighborhood in Montreal. There's a lot to be excited about in this place, ranging from its old-world charms and novelties to the hip hotspots and great attractions. Going here feels like you've traveled back in time. To a time like Old Europe, where people wore fancy clothes, practiced proper etiquette, and expressed nobility. You may be lucky that all that brouhaha is now in the past but you can still enjoy the opulent beauty and heritage of it here in Old Montreal!
See The Historic Buildings
Even from afar, you can already tell that Old Montreal is a treasure trove of historical buildings. They're part of what makes this area burst with old-world beauty and charm. Among the most impressive is the old Montreal City Hall, which was built between 1872 and 1878. Inspired by the Hôtel de Ville Tours in France, the building evokes that old-school European opulence. Though it no longer operates as the mayor's office, it remains a popular tourist spot in Old Montreal. And then there's Château Ramezay, which looks more like a quaint villa in the
French countryside than a popular attraction in the middle of the city.
Source: Flickr.com/ Adam Fagen
Visit Notre-Dame de Montréal
Though it's nowhere near the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, Notre-Dame de Montréal is still worth checking out. Located at the heart of Old Montreal, it's highly regarded as the centerpiece of the neighborhood. Its facade bears many similarities to the famous monument in the French capital, particularly its Gothic design. But its interior is far more different. While Notre Dame in Paris evokes a more austere aesthetic, this basilica in Old Montreal has a more colorful and even slightly more glamorous appeal. With how the place is lit up, the altar itself looks so majestic.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Shop at Place Jacques-Cartier
Although Place d’Armes, where Notre-Dame de Montréal is located, is the more famous public square in Old Montreal, Place Jacques-Cartier is just as noteworthy. Specifically for those who want to go on a shopping spree. Place Jacques-Cartier is one of the best places to go
shopping in Montreal. Not just in Old Montreal but in the entire city too! It first opened as a marketplace back in 1804 and has remained a bustling pedestrian street lined with all sorts of shops and boutiques. From famous brands to homegrown labels, there are so many fun and fascinating finds waiting for you here at Place Jacques-Cartier!
Source: Flickr.com/ Wally Gobetz.
Stroll Rue St-Paul
If your legs can still keep up, you can also go on a nice stroll through Rue St-Paul. This cobblestone street in Old Montreal is the oldest of its kind, having been paved all the way back in 1672. And though centuries have gone on since then, the place has barely changed at all. The same stone and brick buildings still stand along this famous street, making for quite a historic area. Not to mention picturesque too. With so much nostalgia to offer, Rue St-Paul is undoubtedly one of the
best Instagrammable spots in Montreal!
Source: Flickr.com/ Adam Fagen
Now, if you want to take a break and let your feet rest, why not visit the famous Phi Centre? More than just a modern art museum, it serves as a multidisciplinary art center as well. It's a place where artists can let their creative juices flow and create something new and extraordinary. Who knows? A major innovation might just happen here while you're visiting! Nevertheless, the Phi Centre serves as the perfect retreat from all the history and heritage that Old Montreal offers. It's the one spot in the entire district that embraces today and tomorrow!
Source: Phi Centre
Go on a Foodie Tour
The moment your stomach starts grumbling, it's time to go on a foodie tour! Fortunately, Old Montreal has tons of exciting hotspots on offer. You can even say that some of the
finest restaurants in Montreal are located here. There's Brasserie 701, for example, which serves
haute cuisine at its finest. Dandy, on the other hand, is an awesome
brunch place where comfort food is the name of the game. These places and more serve the most delicious dishes, the most refreshing drinks, and the coolest ambiance you'll ever get to taste and see in the city.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Check Out Vieux-Port
And finally, before your
day in Old Montreal is through, don't forget to check out Vieux-Port, or the “Old Port.” What was once the major port of the city has become one of the liveliest commercial districts in all of Montreal. There's a lot of fun to be had here, such as the delicious foodie hotspots, the coolest bars, and more. Its pièce de résistance is La Grande Roue de Montréal, the big ferris wheel at the center of all the action. You can ride it all the way to the top and enjoy one of the best views of the city.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Jeangagnon
From the stunning historical buildings to the cobblestone streets that are as lively as ever, there are plenty of things to get excited about in Old Montreal. This isn't the city's most famous district for nothing!
