The Best Montreal 3-Day Itinerary: My Journey Through Canada’s Cultural Capital

Montreal is one of those cities that has a little bit of everything — vibrant arts, rich history, amazing food, and an energetic blend of French and English cultures. As a traveler who loves exploring cities full of charm and unique experiences, Montreal instantly won me over. Over the course of three days, I got to experience the best the city has to offer, and I’m here to share my journey with you, along with tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your Montreal trip.

Why I Chose Montreal

Montreal is a city that stands out for its blend of old-world European charm and modern North American energy. It’s a city with layers of history, but also one that celebrates creativity, innovation, and cultural diversity. What truly drew me to Montreal is how you can walk through the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal and feel like you’re in Europe, then suddenly find yourself in a bustling market or a trendy café that’s pure North America.

Let me walk you through my three-day journey in Montreal, filled with amazing sights, delicious food, and plenty of personal tips to help you plan your trip!

Day 1: Exploring Old Montreal – The Heart of the City

Morning: A Walk Through History in Old Montreal

On my first morning in Montreal, I knew I had to start in Vieux-Montréal (Old Montreal). This part of the city is incredibly charming, with narrow, cobblestone streets, stunning old buildings, and so much history to uncover. I started my day with a visit to Notre-Dame Basilica, a stunning church known for its incredible Gothic Revival architecture. I recommend getting there early to avoid the crowds – it’s worth spending a few extra minutes just taking in the beauty inside.

• Notre-Dame Basilica: The architecture and history of this church blew me away. If you’re into history and culture, it’s a must-see. (Entry fee: CAD 10)

Next, I walked through Vieux-Port (Old Port) and spent some time just taking in the views of the St. Lawrence River. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy Montreal’s natural beauty.

• Pro Tip: Take a moment to relax by the water. There are boat tours available if you want a different perspective of the city.

Afternoon: Savoring Montreal’s Flavor in the Heart of the City

By lunchtime, I was starving, so I made my way to Marché Jean-Talon, a bustling market in Little Italy where you can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to local cheeses and meats. I grabbed a sandwich and some fresh Montreal-style bagels from Fairmount Bagel—a must-try while you’re in the city!

If you’re in Old Montreal, I highly recommend heading to La Banquise for their legendary poutine. Trust me, it’s the best in town! It’s Montreal’s most famous dish — a hearty combination of fries, cheese curds, and gravy.

• Pro Tip: Don’t skip on trying poutine when you visit Montreal. It’s an iconic dish, and you’ll be missing out on a real Montreal experience if you don’t try it!

Evening: Dinner and Drinks in Le Plateau

For dinner, I headed over to the Le Plateau district, known for its artsy vibe and trendy restaurants. I ended up at Au Pied de Cochon, which is famous for its indulgent French-Canadian cuisine. The foie gras poutine is a splurge, but absolutely worth it. The atmosphere here is amazing, so it’s great for a special evening out.

• Pro Tip: If you’re planning to dine at Au Pied de Cochon, make a reservation in advance. This place fills up quickly!

After dinner, I explored the local nightlife in Le Plateau. Whether you’re into cozy bars or lively music venues, this neighborhood has plenty to offer. I ended the night at Bily Kun, a bar with a chill atmosphere where I could enjoy a local craft beer.

Day 2: Mont Royal, Museums, and Montreal’s Best Views

Morning: Hiking Up Mont Royal for the Best Views

On my second day, I decided to explore Mont Royal, the park that gives the city its name. I woke up early, packed a light snack, and set off for a hike up to the summit. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views at the top are definitely worth it. From there, you can see all of Montreal — the city sprawling below with the St. Lawrence River in the background.

• Pro Tip: If you’re not up for a strenuous hike, there’s a road that leads to the top of Mont Royal where you can drive or take a bus. But if you’re into a good workout, I highly recommend the hike!

At the top, there’s a charming chalet where you can take in the 360-degree view of the city. It’s the perfect place for a photo op.

Afternoon: Immersing Myself in Montreal’s Arts Scene

After the hike, I took the bus (about 15 minutes) to the Museum District. I spent the afternoon at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA), one of the city’s most important cultural institutions. The museum is a mix of classic and contemporary art, and there’s always something new to see.

• Entry Fee: CAD 24
• Pro Tip: You could easily spend a couple of hours here, so plan your visit accordingly. I recommend checking out their special exhibits for a truly unique experience.

If you have time, you can also visit the Biodome and Botanical Gardens at Parc Maisonneuve, especially if you’re an outdoors or nature lover.

Evening: Dining at Montreal’s Best Bistro

By evening, I was ready to enjoy some fine dining at Toqué!, a renowned fine dining restaurant in Montreal. The food here is world-class, and the ambiance is perfect for a special night out. I highly recommend trying their tasting menu for a complete culinary journey.

• Pro Tip: Toque! is very popular, so make sure to book your reservation ahead of time.

Day 3: Exploring the Neighborhoods & Hidden Gems of Montreal

Morning: Exploring Little Italy and Mile End

On my last day, I explored Little Italy and Mile End, two of Montreal’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Little Italy is filled with charming cafés and unique Italian restaurants. I had breakfast at Café Olimpico, a local favorite where you can sip on coffee while people-watching.

Afterward, I walked through Mile End, a hip neighborhood full of art galleries, independent shops, and cool cafés. This is also the home of Montreal’s famous bagels, so make sure to stop by St-Viateur Bagel for an authentic bagel experience.

• Pro Tip: Mile End is known for its street art, so make sure to look up — you’ll find some really cool murals!

Afternoon: Olympic Stadium and Montreal Science Centre

If you’re a history or sports fan, I recommend visiting the Olympic Stadium, which hosted the 1976 Summer Olympics. You can even take an elevator ride up to the Montreal Tower for an incredible view of the city. It’s a bit of a hidden gem that not many tourists take the time to explore, but I thought it was worth it.

I also visited the Montreal Science Centre. It’s perfect for families or anyone with an interest in science and technology. The interactive exhibits were both fun and educational, and the views from the center over the Old Port are lovely.

Evening: Dinner and Sunset Cruise

For my last night, I treated myself to a sunset cruise along the St. Lawrence River. The views of Montreal’s skyline during sunset were absolutely stunning. Afterward, I headed to Le Club Chasse et Pêche for a luxurious and unforgettable dinner. The experience was top-notch — gourmet dishes, fine wine, and impeccable service.

• Sunset Cruise Cost: CAD 40-60
• Pro Tip: Book the sunset cruise in advance, as it’s a popular activity, especially in the summer months.

Fares and Transportation: How I Got Around Montreal

• By Metro: The metro is the most convenient way to get around Montreal. A single ride costs CAD 3.50, and you can buy a 3-day pass for CAD 18 if you plan to use the metro a lot.
• By Taxi: Taxis in Montreal have a base fare of CAD 8, with additional charges of CAD 1.75 per kilometer. It’s a good option if you’re in a hurry or need to go to areas not accessible by metro.

• By Bus: A single ride on the bus also costs CAD 3.50. A 1-day pass is CAD 10, and a 3-day pass is CAD 18.
• By Car: Car rentals in Montreal start at CAD 30-40 per day, but be aware of parking fees, which range from CAD 3 to 5 per hour.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Montreal truly exceeded my expectations in every way. From its historic Old Montreal to the vibrant cultural neighborhoods, this city has so much to offer. If you’re visiting, I highly recommend spending at least 3 days to take in the best of Montreal — from delicious food and rich history to stunning views and unique neighborhoods.

My time in Montreal was filled with unforgettable experiences, and I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your own trip. Remember, no matter where you are in the city, there’s always something exciting just around the corner!