A quick trip to Montreal barely gave me enough time to explore, but definitely wet my appetite for another trip in the future. The combination of French charm with Canadian hospitality offers the perfect mix of culture without having to travel (too) far from home.
Pack... Comfy shoes for walking (or biking).
Sleep... Le Petit Hotel. A well-located hotel in the heart of Old Town, with comfy beds and exposed brick walls.
Try... Poutine. A Quebec speciality, this indulgent snack is worth tasting. Think french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Order for your table to share and grab a fork!
Rent bikes for the day. Montreal is a very bike-able city and you cover much more ground this way.
Bota Spa - A spa on a boat. Conveniently located on the river in the Old Town, I'm dying to come back and get a spa treatment here.
Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal - The church's Gothic Revival architecture is striking and chances are you will stumble upon it if you are exploring Old Town on foot. Its a few dollars to go inside, but from what I hear the ceiling and colors inside make that worth it!
Mount Royal - A large public park in the city, the highlight is a hike to the top of the large hill for views of Montreal and surrounding areas. We didn't have time for this but it's on top of my list for next time!
Le Club Chasse et Peche - This dark but cozy spot in Old Town is a fantastic meal. Enjoy their delicious wine cellar too.
Maison Publique - One of the most unique and memorable meals I've had in a long time.
Food trucks by the river are an easy place to grab a snack or quick meal.
Don't forget to indulge in some mussels, too!