Montreal is cherished for the richness of life and contrasting colors of its neighborhoods. It is a city known for its rich culture and diversity. Whether you are visiting Montreal on your next trip or want to spend some creative time in the City of Saints, you can choose one of its lovely neighborhoods.
So, which neighborhood to choose in Montreal? Here are 5 options for you to consider for your visit.
1. Saint-Henri
Saint-Henri is located on Montreal’s southwest end as an old-world retreat, drawing a larger influx of hip young professionals. Known for its affordable rentals, this traditional blue-collar neighborhood is known for its hip bars, cafes, and restaurants.
You will love the colorful residential properties, Art Deco buildings, one of the largest farmers’ markets in the city, the clock tower, and the Lachine Canal. Strolling and bike riding along the canal is a popular activity here.
2. Old Montréal
As the name suggests, Old Montreal is the oldest area of the city. It is easily recognizable by its European touch and feel, as it features café-fringed squares, cobbled lanes, and Second Empire architecture. Some of Old Montreal’s key attractions include:
- Visit Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours and other grand churches
- Explore its street art, including the bronze Les Chuchoteuses sculpture
- The piece of the Berlin Wall in the Montréal World Trade Centre
- Go shopping at the L’Empreinte Coopérative, Boutique Boréale, and the Marché Bonsecours
You can also find many creative, vegan, and vegetarian restaurants, and rooftop bars. If you are a wanderer, Old Montreal is a great place for you.
3. Notre-Dame-de-Grâce
Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG) is a cherished Montreal neighborhood, valued for its marvelous dining experience, tree-lined streets, and amazing community. Located on the city’s west end, it is just 20 minutes from the downtown. NDG is a large neighborhood, stretching from Monkland Village to Sherbrooke Street.
The place offers varied dining experiences comprising higher-end, Mexican, and other cuisines. High-end fashion, bookshops, and music stores are some of its hot shopping attractions. You will also be attracted to NDG’s lovely alleys and buildings covered in murals.
4. Plateau-Mont-Royal & The Mile End
Plateau-Mont-Royal is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Montreal. Square Saint-Louis is the art community’s hub in the city. You will love the richly-colored buildings and their beautiful staircases.
Slightly north of the area, you will be mesmerized by the splendid dining and cocktail experience. Plateau hosts the best parks in the city, with popular names being:
- Mont-Royal or the mountain
- Laurier
- La Fontaine
You can head to Mount Royal, Saint-Denis, and Saint-Laurent streets for your shopping escapades. Besides, the neighborhood also provides you quick access to the charming festivals of Quartier des Spectacles. The Mile End draws visitors’ attention to its rich Jewish population and museum, bagel shops, cafes, vintage stores, bookshops, and luxury accommodations.
5. Rosemont & Petite Patrie
Rosemont and Petite Patrie are youthful and energetic neighborhoods that include the Jean-Talon Market and Little Italy. Jean-Talon is the largest farmers’ market in the city and gives you the opportunity to enjoy all the tastes and flavors Quebec is known for – maple syrup, corn, berries, apples, cider, and more.
Little Italy is a charming place, offering a world of treats, including pizzas, cannolis, coffee, and porchetta sliders at its bakeries, coffee shops, and fashionable restaurants. You can spend time in nature’s arms at Parc Molson or go watch a movie with friends or family at the non-profit Cinema Beaubien.
Montreal has many other neighborhoods, offering wonderful memories and experiences for you to take back home. These include Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, The Village, Downtown Montreal, Chinatown, Outremont, Verdun, Mile-Ex, Côte-Des-Neiges, and Villeray to name a few.
