{{This post might contain affiliate links. If you use any of these links to buy a product, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you}}. Read my full disclosure for more details.

Bienvenue à Montreal! Renowned as the second-largest French-speaking city in the world, Montreal is a cultural melting pot rich in history, delectable cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking architecture. There are plenty of things to do and see and Montreal hosts some of the most famous attractions. This comprehensive guide outlines how to make the most of your 48 hours in Montreal, the ‘City of Saints’.

 

48 Hours in Montreal Complete Travel Guide

How to Navigate in Montreal

During your 48 hours in Montreal, getting around efficiently will be key to making the most of your stay. Montreal is known for its efficient and convenient public transportation system, as well as being a very walkable and bike-friendly city. Use this Montreal travel guide to avoid any inconveniences during your city break!

Public Transit in Montreal

The Société de Transport de Montréal (STM) operates Montreal’s public transit system, which includes a network of buses and the Metro, the city’s subway system. The Metro is the fastest way to cover longer distances across the city. There are four lines, identified by color, and they intersect at various points, allowing for easy transfers.

 

For your 48 hours in Montreal, consider getting a 2-day unlimited travel card, which is a cost-effective option if you plan to use public transit frequently. It can be purchased at any Metro station.

Biking in Montreal

Montreal is one of North America’s most bike-friendly cities, with over 850 km of bicycle paths. The city’s bike-sharing system, BIXI, is available from April to November and offers 24-hour or 72-hour access passes. It’s an ideal option for short distances or scenic rides, such as along the Lachine Canal or around Old Montreal.

Walking in Montreal

Many of Montreal’s key attractions, especially in areas like Old Montreal, the Plateau, and Downtown, are within comfortable walking distance of each other. Exploring on foot also allows you to experience Montreal’s distinct neighborhoods and discover hidden gems.

Taxis and Rideshares in Montreal

Taxis are available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street or ordered through an app. Uber is also widely used in Montreal for quick and convenient travel.

Car Rental in Montreal

While car rentals are available, driving in Montreal can be challenging due to heavy traffic, expensive parking, and complex road rules. It’s usually more convenient to use public transportation or walk.

Where to Stay in Montreal

 

Finding the right place to stay is crucial when planning your 48 hours in Montreal. This vibrant city offers a wide array of accommodations that can fit all types of budgets.

 

Budget Accommodation in Montreal

M Montreal Hostel ($55 per night): A popular choice among budget travelers, it offers a range of dormitory and private rooms, with a bar and events to help you meet fellow travelers.

 

Samesun Montreal Central ($40 per night): Samesun Montreal Central is a lively, budget-friendly hostel situated near the city’s Latin Quarter. Offering both dorm-style and private rooms, the hostel features a communal kitchen, free breakfast, a bar, and organizes daily events. It is within easy walking distance of many of the city’s attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring Montreal.

 

Auberge Saint-Paul ($50 per night).

A clean and friendly hostel located in Old Montreal, offering private rooms and dormitories. The hostel offers both private and shared accommodations, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or groups. Inside, you’ll find clean, comfortable rooms, a shared kitchen for preparing meals, and common areas perfect for socializing with fellow travelers.

 

Mid-Range Accommodation in Montreal

Hotel Bonaventure Montreal($250 per night): This unique hotel features a rooftop garden and pool. Its convenient downtown location provides easy access to Montreal’s main attractions.

 

Hotel Nelligan($378 per night): Located in Old Montreal, this hotel offers historic charm with modern amenities and a rooftop bar with stunning views. Hotel Nelligan is a charming boutique hotel situated in the heart of Old Montreal, offering guests a blend of historic elegance and contemporary style. The hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building and features tastefully designed rooms and suites with brick accent walls, comfortable beds, modern bathrooms, and luxurious amenities.

 

Le Petit Hotel Montreal($267 per night): Le Petit Hotel Montreal is a chic boutique hotel located in the heart of Old Montreal, offering a perfect blend of modern design and old-world charm. Housed in a historic building, the hotel maintains its original character while providing contemporary comfort and amenities.

 

Luxury Accommodation in Montreal

Fairmont Queen Elizabeth($262 per night): Located in the heart of the city, this historic luxury hotel offers a lavish experience with comfortable rooms, excellent service, and top-notch dining options.

 

Hotel Le St-James($260 per night): Situated in Old Montreal, this boutique hotel offers a mix of classic elegance and modern comfort, with a renowned restaurant and a spa. Hotel Le St-James is one of Montreal’s most prestigious luxury hotels. Housed in a grand historic building that was once a Merchant’s Bank, the hotel combines old-world charm with modern sophistication, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance.

 

The Ritz-Carlton Montreal($550 per night): As one of the most prestigious addresses in the city, the Ritz offers a luxurious stay with a rooftop pool, renowned restaurant Maison Boulud, and spacious, well-appointed rooms.

 

Where to Eat in Montreal

During your 48 hours in Montreal, you will have the opportunity to explore a culinary scene that is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. You can’t leave Montreal without trying the delicious cuisine you can find ghere at a wide array of restaurants! Here are some places you shouldn’t miss.

 

Breakfast

Fairmount Bagel Bakery: Begin your day the Montreal way with a visit to this legendary bagel shop. Montreal-style bagels are smaller, denser, and sweeter than their New York counterparts, making them a unique treat.

 

Olive et Gourmando: Olive et Gourmando is a beloved café and bakery located in the heart of Old Montreal. Known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and delicious, homemade fare, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or lunch. This popular Old Montreal café offers exceptional pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. Try their “Le Cubain” sandwich for a hearty breakfast.

 

Lunch

Schwartz’s Deli: Don’t miss out on Montreal’s famous smoked meat sandwiches.  This place is also known as the Montreal Hebrew Delicatessen, is a landmark eatery that has been serving up the city’s iconic smoked meat sandwiches since 1928. Located on the popular Saint-Laurent Boulevard, Schwartz’s is the go-to spot for this delicious Montreal specialty, which features a pile of smoked brisket, mustard, and pickles served on rye bread.

 

Jean-Talon Market: Visit this bustling market for lunch and enjoy a variety of food stalls offering fresh, local produce and a wide range of cuisines. Jean-Talon Market, located in Montreal’s Little Italy district, is one of the largest open-air markets in North America and a hub of the city’s local food culture. Operating since 1933, this lively market is teeming with vendors selling a wide array of goods from seasonal fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheese, locally sourced meats, and freshly baked bread, to a vibrant selection of flowers and plants.

 

Dinner

Joe Beef: If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Joe Beef is a must-visit. Renowned for its rustic, innovative dishes, the restaurant is a cornerstone of Montreal’s culinary scene.

 

Toqué!: Regarded as one of the best restaurants in Canada, Toqué! offers a tasting menu featuring local, seasonal ingredients. Toqué! is a jewel in Montreal’s gastronomic scene, renowned for its refined, innovative cuisine and elegant atmosphere. Established by celebrated chef Normand Laprise, Toqué! has been a pillar of Montreal’s dining scene for over 25 years. Reservations are a must.

 

Late-Night Eats

La Banquise: Open 24 hours, La Banquise serves up some of the city’s best poutine, perfect for late-night cravings. From the classic version to adventurous variations loaded with additional toppings like bacon, onions, and peppers, there’s a poutine for every taste at La Banquise.

 

Bouillon Bilk: If you’re looking for a sophisticated late-night dining option, Bouillon Bilk offers a chic atmosphere with a menu that combines bold flavors and creative presentations.

Desserts and Snacks

St-Viateur Bagel: Another iconic Montreal bagel shop, perfect for a snack while exploring the city. St-Viateur Bagel in Montreal is a culinary institution that has been delighting residents and visitors alike with its iconic bagels since 1957. This family-owned bakery is famous for its traditional, hand-rolled, wood-fired Montreal-style bagels, which are smaller, denser, and sweeter than their New York counterparts.

 

Maison Christian Faure: A patisserie in Old Montreal, renowned for its exquisite French pastries and desserts. Founded by renowned French pastry chef Christian Faure, the shop has earned a reputation for its outstanding French pastries, desserts, and bread.

 

Columbus cafe

Columbus Café in Montreal is a vibrant and inviting coffee shop that is known for its delightful ambiance and quality coffee. It provides an ideal spot for relaxation and conversation, with a cozy interior that exudes a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The café prides itself on serving a wide selection of delicious drinks and snacks, with a menu that caters to various tastes and dietary preferences.

 

Not every location is equal though. I’ve personally visited a few and one I did like and another one didn’t. The one on 1200 Mont-Royal Ave is very good. It’s cute, there are outside tables, delicious quinoa salad, parfait, and Rose tea. Definitely recommend checking this location on your visit to Montreal if you are near.

 

If you are a foodie addict, take this Cruise with a 3-Course Brunch where you won’t just enjoy various delicious meals, but also will see the beautiful scenic city views. Book your tickets now.

What to Do in Montreal in 48 Hours

When planning your 48 hours in Montreal, you’ll find an abundance of activities and sights to fill your itinerary. This city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and lively festivals make it an exciting destination to explore.

 

Day 1

• Discover Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)

Start your day early in Old Montreal, where the city began. Meander down its historic cobblestone streets, visit the stunning Notre Dame Basilica and explore the old port area. Don’t forget to check out Bonsecours Market, a bustling marketplace that has been a cornerstone of Montreal’s life for over 100 years. Don’t miss walking by the water. That area is amazing. Take a ride at the La Grande Roue Montreal wheel to experience the best city views. Book your entry tickets here.

 

• Visit Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History (Pointe-à-Callière)

Spend your afternoon learning about Montreal’s rich history at this innovative museum built atop the city’s birthplace. Interactive displays, guided tours, and multimedia presentations bring history to life, making it an enlightening experience for visitors of all ages. This is a must-see attraction during your 2-day itinerary!

 

• Have a Lunch in Old Montreal

Enjoy lunch at a local bistro or café. Consider trying a classic Montreal smoked meat sandwich or savory poutine. Having lunch in Old Montreal is a delightful experience that blends the charm of cobblestone streets and historic architecture with the pleasure of diverse culinary adventures.

 

• Explore Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin botanique de Montréal)

Recognized as one of the world’s greatest botanical gardens, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city with its thematic gardens and greenhouses.

 

• Have a Dinner in The City

Treat yourself to dinner at one of Montreal’s gastronomic hotspots. Choices range from classic French cuisine to inventive fusion dishes.

 

• Explore Downtown Montreal

After dinner, take a stroll in downtown Montreal. Visit the vibrant Quartier des Spectacles, Montreal’s entertainment district, home to many of the city’s most popular festivals and cultural events.

 

Day 2

• Visit Mount Royal Park

Start day 2 in Montreal with a morning hike up Mount Royal, the city’s namesake. The park offers excellent trails and breathtaking views of Montreal. Pick the attractions you are most interested in for the 48-hour Montreal itinerary!

 

• Explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal)

Spend your afternoon immersing yourself in art at this world-renowned museum. Housed across five pavilions, the museum boasts an impressive collection of over 43,000 works ranging from antiquity to the present day, including significant holdings in Canadian and international art, contemporary art, decorative arts and design, and graphic arts.

 

• Visit Saint Joseph’s Oratory (Oratoire Saint-Joseph)

One of the world’s most visited shrines, the Oratory’s dome reaches heights second only to Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome. It offers beautiful views over the city.

 

• Take a Walk at Plateau Mont-Royal

Known for its colorful row houses, staircases, and vibrant street art, this neighborhood is full of character. Explore its numerous cafes, bookshops, and boutiques. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the neighborhood’s many trendy cafés or bistros.

 

• Hop On on the Sightseeing River Cruise

Have a great cultural experience of Montreal from the water. Enjoy the best views and atmosphere. Book your cruise tickets here.

 

• Check out The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel

The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, often referred to as the Sailors’ Church, is one of the oldest churches in Montreal. It was initially built in 1771 over the ruins of an earlier chapel. The chapel has a rich history connected to Montreal’s early days and has become a pilgrimage site, especially for sailors who arrived in the Old Port of Montreal.

 

Today, it also houses the Marguerite Bourgeoys Museum, dedicated to the life of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys and the early history of Montreal and the chapel site. Plan to spend around an hour here as the entire site is charming.

• Admire the Gothic Architecture

Montreal is home to several notable Gothic Revival architecture examples, a style that emphasizes medieval designs characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. One of the most prominent examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Montreal is the Notre Dame Basilica. Constructed between 1824 and 1829, it’s one of the oldest instances of Gothic Revival religious architecture in Canada.

 

The basilica was designed by James O’Donnell, an architect who was an Irish immigrant to New York City. The interior, richly decorated under the oversight of Victor Bourgeau, presents an awe-inspiring space filled with intricate wood carvings, stunning stained glass, and a massive organ, making it a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture.

 

The category of Gothic Revival architecture in Montreal encompasses several other buildings as well, including Christ Church Cathedral, the Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul, and St. Patrick’s Basilica, Montreal, among others. These buildings collectively showcase the diversity and breadth of Gothic Revival architecture in the city, reflecting its historical and cultural richness.

 

• Visit the Montreal Science Center

The Montreal Science Centre is a science museum in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, located at the Old Port on King Edward Pier. Established in 2000 and initially known as the iSci Centre, it was renamed in 2002. The Centre is renowned for its interactive exhibitions on science and technology, as well as an IMAX theatre, making it a popular destination for visitors interested in engagingly exploring scientific concepts.

 

• Finish Your Day With a Dinner and Enjoy the Nightlife in Plateau Mont-Royal

This neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife and food scene. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery before exploring the area’s numerous bars and live music venues.

Budget Planning for 48 Hours in Montreal

The budget for 48 hours in Montreal can vary greatly depending on your travel style, but here’s a general guide using the USD currency as of the time of this writing. Keep in mind that exchange rates fluctuate.

 

Accommodation In Montreal Cost

Budget (hostels, budget hotels): $25 – $75 per night

Mid-range: $75 – $150 per night

Luxury: $150 – $300 per night

Food in Montreal Cost

Budget (street food, fast food): $7 – $15 per meal

Mid-range: $15 – $40 per meal

Luxury: $40 – $75 per meal

 

Transportation in Montreal Cost

A 2-day unlimited travel card for public transit (bus and metro) costs about $14. BIXI, Montreal’s public bike-share system, offers a 72-hour access pass for around $12.

Attractions in Montreal Cost

Entry fees to major attractions like museums or the Botanical Gardens range from $10 – $25 each.

 

Miscellaneous

Always account for extra expenses such as souvenirs, emergency needs, or additional snacks and drinks, which can add up to $20 – $50 per day.

 

In total, for a mid-range traveler staying two nights, eating three meals a day, visiting a few paid attractions, and using public transport, you could expect to spend approximately $300 – $500 for 48 hours in Montreal. These prices are approximations and actual costs can fluctuate based on personal spending habits and current exchange rates. To learn more budget tips in Montreal, check this post.

Do you have more than 2 days in Montreal? If so, why not make a trip to Toronto?!

 

Safety Tips For 48 Hours in Montreal

Montreal is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any large city, it’s important to take certain precautions. Here are some safety tips for your 48 hours in Montreal:

 

Stay Alert: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially at night or when in less crowded areas. Avoid isolated areas and stick to well-lit busy streets.

 

Protect Your Valuables: Keep your belongings close and secure at all times. Don’t leave your bag unattended and consider using a money belt or neck wallet to store your passport, cash, and credit cards.

 

Public Transportation Safety: Public transport is generally safe in Montreal, but try to avoid less crowded buses or metro cars late at night. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busier metro stations.

 

Beware of Pickpockets: Like in any major city, pickpockets can operate in crowded places like public transportation, markets, and tourist sites. Keep your belongings secure and in your sight at all times.

 

Road Safety: If you’re driving, be aware that Montreal’s streets can be narrow and busy, and the local driving style may be different from what you’re used to. Always obey traffic rules. If you’re a pedestrian, remember to cross at designated crossings and always check for traffic.

 

Weather Conditions: Montreal’s weather can be quite extreme. Summers can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated. Winters, on the other hand, are very cold with heavy snowfall, so make sure to dress appropriately and be cautious of icy sidewalks.

 

Emergency Services: In case of an emergency, the number to call is 911.

 

Travel Insurance: Always have travel insurance to cover any potential medical costs or trip disruptions.

Final Thoughts

Your 48 hours in Montreal promises to be an adventure filled with culture, history, delectable cuisine, and a variety of unique experiences. This city, with its melding of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, will captivate you and create memories that will last a lifetime. And you will find many free entry attractions when you are exploring this city! The home city of Leonard Cohen will surprise you from the first glance.

 

Despite the packed schedule, don’t forget to take a moment to simply relax and soak in the atmosphere – whether that’s at a cozy café in Plateau Mont-Royal, a tranquil garden in the Botanical Gardens, or the stunning vistas from Mount Royal.

 

Remember, this guide is just a glimpse of what Montreal has to offer. There’s much more waiting for you to discover. So, here’s to your 48 hours in Montreal. May it be the journey of a lifetime, and may it leave you eager to return for more of the unique blend of experiences only Montreal can offer. Safe travels!

 

 

Pin it for later