3 Days in Montreal Itinerary: What to See and Do
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Are you looking for the perfect Montreal itinerary? I believe that three days in Montreal is just the right amount of time to truly experience one of the most fascinating cities in Canada. Here’s how I would recommend spending 3 days in Montreal to make the most of your trip.
After Toronto, Montreal is the second-largest city in the country and the most visited as well. The city gets its name from the triple-peaked Mount Royal, which sits right in the heart of Montreal.
For me, hiking up Mont-Royal was the most memorable activity. I thoroughly enjoyed the breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere. The serenity of the Lachine Canal and wandering through the charming lanes of Old Montreal were also highlights of my time in the city.
Visiting Montreal in the summer is a real treat. The city beautifully preserves its history while embracing modernity, making it a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast like myself.
If you’re like me and want to explore Montreal as fully as possible, I’ve carefully curated a 3-day itinerary to help you discover all the best that this remarkable city has to offer.
Day 1: Explore The Old Montreal and Saint Henri
Notre-Dame Basilica
The Notre-Dame Basilica is, in my opinion, the largest and most beautiful church in all of Montreal. It’s much more than a place of worship; it’s a true heritage landmark. I was absolutely captivated when I first laid eyes on its stunning architecture and breathtaking design.
Stepping inside, I found the atmosphere to be serene and somber, a quiet space that holds more than a century of Montreal’s history. Over the years, the basilica has endured a devastating fire and undergone reconstruction.
Although many of its original paintings and frescoes were lost to the fire, Quebec artist Charles Daudelin took on the task of restoring the church. He carefully preserved the chapel’s original shape while enhancing its beauty, ensuring that it remains an architectural gem today.
The golden altar and the colorful stained-glass windows that surround the church truly left me in awe. For me, the Notre-Dame Basilica is the perfect place to begin any Montreal itinerary.
Saint Henri (Atwater Market, Lachine Canal)
Once I found myself in Saint Henri, I discovered that there are plenty of places to explore around the neighborhood. My first stop was the Atwater Market, where I indulged in the freshness of local farm produce, especially the sweet Quebec strawberries.
The market is also home to a variety of eateries offering different cuisines. My personal favorite at Atwater Market is Aylwin Barbecue, which serves up mouthwatering BBQ platters, coleslaw, and brisket sandwiches.
After enjoying the market, I made my way to the Lachine Canal. There, I took a leisurely stroll through the lush green park, soaking in the beauty of the city from the shoreline.
For those seeking adventure, kayaking or biking along the canal are fantastic options. The Lachine Canal quickly became one of my most memorable places to visit in Montreal.
Old Montreal
After a wonderful day exploring the historic neighborhood of Saint Henri, I loved to top it off by wandering through Old Montreal. This is truly where the city’s history comes alive, right next to the Saint Lawrence River.
Old Montreal is filled with nostalgia, old administrative offices, charming structures, and the bustling old town market gives it the feel of a quaint French village. Every corner seems to tell a story, and for me, it’s like stepping back in time.
I enjoyed browsing the many boutiques, shops, and eateries, as well as the high-end restaurants that line the streets. One of my favorite spots for lunch is Venice Mtl Vieux-Montreal, where I savored delicious tacos, pizzas, burgers, and poke bowls.
The entire vibe of Old Montreal is simply magical. It’s a favorite spot for people to relax, snap photos, and soak in the beauty that makes their Instagram feeds pop.
I also recommend joining a small group walking tour of the Old Town. It’s a great way to discover hidden gems and navigate the winding streets. No matter the season, Old Montreal is always the coolest place to be in the city.
An evening walk through the Old Port
While you are in Old Montreal, you need to head over to the Old Port during the sunset hourTaking a walk through the Old Port under the twilight sky, watching as it shifts from lilac hues to darkness, has given me some of my most memorable experiences in the city. The city lights reflecting perfectly on the Saint Lawrence River are truly mesmerizing.
For a different perspective, I loved taking a Saint Lawrence sightseeing cruise. It was a fantastic way to see Montreal’s major attractions from the water.
The Old Port itself is packed with things to do: there’s La Grande Roue Ferris wheel, a city beach, the Montreal Science Centre, the Old Port piers, and even an IMAX Theatre. The gentle sea breeze always feels like the perfect ending to my first day in Montreal.
Day 2: Mont-Royal Park, Westmount Park, Mile End and Jean Talon Market
Hiking at Mont-Royal Park
Nothing in Montreal feels more adventurous to me than Mont-Royal Park. This expansive green space is filled with vast fields, lush grass, and trees stretching as far as I could see.
The fresh air and the small water body nestled in the park make mornings here especially delightful. But what truly makes Mont-Royal Park stand out for me are its hiking trails and the variety of adventurous activities you can enjoy.
The hike up Mont Royal is invigorating. Depending on where you start, it usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes to reach the summit. Standing 233 meters above the city, you will be rewarded with the most breathtaking panoramic views of Montreal.
Mont-Royal Park offers excitement year-round. In winter, it transforms into a popular spot for birding, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking. Whatever your sense of adventure, I believe you’ll fall in love with this iconic Montreal destination.
Witness the Cartier Monument
On your way back from Mont-Royal Park, make a stop at the George-Étienne Cartier Monument. It’s truly a sight to behold. This impressive monument is crowned with a winged Goddess of Liberty and stands as a symbol of Canadian Confederation, making it one of the city’s most significant landmarks.
Westmount Park for a Little Picnic
If you’re not the adventurous type and prefer a relaxing picnic, I recommend skipping Mont-Royal Park and heading to Westmount Park instead. This beautiful park is nestled in one of Montreal’s wealthiest neighborhoods, where the roads are quiet, and the surroundings exude a sense of calm. Every time I visit, I find myself sighing in appreciation at the lush, natural beauty within the park.
Westmount Park transforms with each season. In autumn, the trees are touched with golden hues; spring brings a burst of butterflies and blooming flowers; winter turns the landscape into a sparkling, icy wonderland; and in summer, the park is alive with vibrant greens and refreshing breezes.
I love packing a picnic and enjoying a peaceful afternoon under the shade of a tree here. It’s the perfect spot for anyone seeking tranquility and a touch of nature in Montreal.
Spend an artistic evening at Mile End Neighborhood
Mile End is, without a doubt, one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Montreal. Every walk through the neighborhood will strike you with the vibrant graffiti, unique design, and the unmistakable artistic energy that fills the air. With its abundance of museums and galleries, Mile End always feels like stepping into a totally different atmosphere.
I’m constantly drawn to the area’s lively restaurants, music shows, cozy cafes, and welcoming baristas—they make you feel right at home. For shopping, Saint-Laurent Boulevard is my go-to, lined with eclectic shops and boutiques. For a great meal, I highly recommend L’Gros Luxe and Larry’s, two of my favorite spots for lunch or dinner in Mile End.
Shop and stroll through the Jean Talon Market
Just a short walk from Mile End, right in the heart of Little Italy, is the vibrant Jean Talon Market. Whenever I visit, I’m greeted by the lively atmosphere and the wonderful selection of fresh local produce. This farmers’ market is great for picking up Quebec maple syrup, pastries, and unique souvenirs. The diversity of vendors and the quality of goods always make each visit to Jean Talon Market a memorable experience.
Day 3: Explore the Downtown Montreal
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, or MMFA, is one of my favorite places to explore in the city. As the oldest museum in Canada and the second largest in North America, it’s truly impressive in both history and scale. I’m amazed by the incredible collection of paintings, graphics, furniture, textiles, sculptures, and so many other forms of decorative and fine arts that fill its vast halls.
What I loved most is that every corner of the museum reveals a new story through a different artist or art form. In one gallery, I’ve found myself drawn to intricate works that capture the spirit of modernism, while in another, the vibrant colors and unique compositions make me reflect on the meanings of modernism and expressionism. The carefully displayed sculptures offer mind-bending interpretations of the world as seen by each artist.
The sheer number and diversity of pieces housed here are truly commendable. For anyone interested in art, the MMFA is an absolute must-visit in Montreal.
Quartier des Spectacles
The entertainment district in the eastern section of downtown Montreal is the perfect place to wrap up my trip after exploring all the other parts of the city. I always save this vibrant neighborhood for the last day, knowing there’s so much to experience here.
This area is packed with multiple performance halls, so I like to check the schedule and pick an event that suits my mood. Whether it’s drama, comedy, dance, music, or even a big international festival. I’ve also enjoyed wandering through art galleries and exhibits that showcase Montreal’s dynamic cultural scene.
No matter what I’m interested in, hip-hop, rock, or something more traditional, there’s always something exciting happening in this energetic part of downtown. For me, it’s the perfect way to end a Montreal adventure.
Montreal Jazz Festival
If you are a jazz lover and visiting Montreal during summer around the Jazz festival then you have golden luck. Approx 3000 artists from all around the world visit Montreal to perform in the festival. It becomes a pilgrimage for music lovers.
The festival gets conducted on such a large scale that you need to get a hand on those passes as soon as possible.
But the fact that it is conducted in downtown Montreal, gives a different energy to these parts of town. The schedule as well as the events are also listed on the website. The event is most likely to be conducted around the end of June and beginning of July.
Experience a relaxing Nordic Thermal Spa
Just a few minutes from downtown, I loved to rejuvenate and relax at the tranquil Strøm Nordic Spa. Nestled in beautiful, blissful surroundings, this spa feels like a true escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s the perfect retreat for anyone who wants to recharge in an exceptionally serene setting.
Where To Stay For 3 Days In Montreal
If you’re looking for a great place to stay near Montreal’s major attractions, I highly recommend choosing accommodation in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). I love how close it is to the vibrant Old Port and the charming cobblestone streets that make me feel like I’ve been transported to Europe. You’ll find plenty of boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and stores just a short walk away, making it incredibly convenient.
Here are my top recommendations for an ideal stay in Montreal:
Budget-friendly (Upto $50): Auberge Alternative is perfect for backpackers and solo travelers who are looking for pocket friendly accommodation in Old Montreal. The dorm rooms are clean and comfortable. This hostel has been highly rated consistently by guests.
Mid Range (<$225) : Maison Saint-Vincent offers stylish, comfortable and modern rooms in the heart of Old Montreal. Attractions like Place Jacques Cartier, Montreal Science Centre, Notre Dame Basilica Montreal and Old Port of Montreal are just a short walking distance from the hotel.
Luxury ($225+) : Intercontinental Hotel is an ideal choice for those who are looking for a luxurious stay in Old Montreal. This modernly furnished hotel is connected to the Montreal Convention Center. The underground city can also be directly accessed from the hotel. Rooms are spacious, comfortable and filled with luxurious amenities. Moreover, the rooms have amazing views of the Old Port and the river. The restaurant in the hotel serves delicious breakfast for the guests. You will find a swimming pool, sauna, salon and a fitness center too at the Intercontinental.
How To Get Around In Montreal
You don’t need to worry about rental car expenses, thanks to Montreal’s incredibly well-connected public transit system. I always find the metro efficient and convenient. It can get me just about anywhere I want to go in the city. Montreal is also very walkable, and I love exploring neighborhoods like Old Montreal, Mile End, and the Plateau entirely on foot.
If you’re into biking, you’ll be happy to know that Montreal is one of the most bike-friendly cities in North America. The city is covered with bike paths, and I often use the bike-sharing system: just pick up a bike at any docking station, pay for it, and drop it off at the station nearest to your destination.
Of course, if you prefer, you can always hire a cab or book an Uber to get around Montreal. With so many options, transportation here is never a hassle.
What’s The Currency Used In Montreal?
The currency used in Montreal is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). I’ve noticed that you can sometimes use US dollars in many places, but the conversion rates aren’t always favorable. I always recommend having Canadian Dollars on hand for the best value, currently, 1 CAD is approximately 0.73 USD.
I truly hope you enjoy your 3 days in Montreal as much as I did. If you have any questions or want to share your favorite Montreal spot, feel free to leave a comment below!
I spent 5 days in Montreal back in September and really loved the city. It’s such a great place to explore, I really enjoyed my time there. I firstly loved that the city is so green, and that there’s literally a forest bang in the middle. The Notre Dame Cathedral is so impressive, definitely worth paying the pricey ticket to go inside. It’s like something I haven’t seen before. I also loved the Atwater market, maybe a bit more than Jean Talon. I found it to be more local and I loved the bakery inside.
Montreal is a short weekend trip for us from Toronto. We have seen the Notre Dame Basilica only from the outside but your post shows we really need to plan to see the inside. Old Montreal and the Port offer lots of things to see and do on repeat visits. And a hike up Mont Royal would be perfect for the views. We have always wanted to visit when the Jazz Festival was on. Maybe this will be the year! Thanks for the reminder to plan this in advance.
I would love to have a chance to be in Canada again. Montreal sounds like a great place to visit as it ticks all the boxes for it. Starting with the great metro links to get around with, that is always helpful. That Notre Dame Basilica is definitely on my list , it certainly looks impressive! Your itinerary looks great for just exploring Montreal whether its Old Montreal , Downtown or going up Mont-Royal for the views. A perfect hint to plan the trip to co-incide with the Jazz Festival too.
What a great way to spend a weekend in Montreal! Love the idea of spending an artistic evening at Mile End and shop for some unique home decor and handicrafts. Will try to schedule a trip in June and hopefully we catch the Montereal Jazz Festival.
Thank you for the hotel recommendations too. It’s nice to know there are many options depending on our budget. 🙂
I love Ferris wheels! I’d definitely head to the old port area to ride that. The views are always stunning, and it’s a fun way to get the lay of the land. Also, I didn’t realize that there was a Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal. Interesting that it also had a fire like the one in France (so unfortunate on both accounts!). I haven’t explored Canada much, but I really hope to in the future. Montreal would be on my list for sure!
Lovely compilation! A bit of heritage, hiking, food, music – everything. It’s also great to know Montreal has a good public transport system and is also walkable. Bookmarking this.