Where to Stay in Montréal for First-Timers: 6 Best Neighborhoods + Hotel Options

Trying to figure out where to stay in Montréal, Canada for your first visit? You’re in the right place!

I get it! With so many neighborhoods and hotel options, it can be overwhelming to know where to book.

Should you stay in the historic Old Montréal or opt for something more local and equally walkable to all there is to see in the city?

I’ve been there, too, deciding on this same answer when I first visited a few years back. But now, after a few trips to Montréal over the years and spending time in different parts of the city, I’ve gotten a feel for which areas are best for different types of travelers.

Whether you’re visiting solo or with friends, family, or your partner, this guide is based on real experience and in-depth research so you can feel confident booking a stay that fits your trip perfectly!

Let’s jump into it!

Where to Stay in Montréal for First-Timers (Best Hotels and Neighborhoods)

1. Old Montréal (Vieux-Montréal)

Old Montréal is the postcard image of Montréal with its beautiful European architecture, streets, and overall vibe, making it one of the best places to stay for first-timers.

Although yes, it is touristy, Old Montréal charms visitors with its river views, terrace cafes, narrow alleyways, and gorgeous sights like the Notre-Dame Basilica. It’s absolutely magical.

I stayed here my first time and didn’t regret it for a second. Waking up just steps away from the Old Port and enjoying a coffee at a nearby terrace surrounded by European charm was what I was looking for.

Why first-timers love Old Montréal

• It’s incredibly walkable – you can explore Old Montréal best on foot and for a while.
• You’re steps away from the city’s top sights.
• It’s romantic, extremely photogenic, and charming. Why wouldn’t you want to stay here?

Top hotels in Old Montréal

• Hotel Nelligan: It’s chic, romantic, and right near the river. Plus, the rooftop bar and restaurant have amazing views of old Montréal and downtown.
• Hotel William Gray: It’s stylish, modern, and has a spa.
• Le Petit Hotel: Trendy boutique hotel with lots of cool personality. Plus, they have bikes for rent!
• Auberge du Vieux-Port: This hotel has river views, and it’s pretty romantic with its classic and historic interior design. It’s a great hotel, especially for couples.

💡 Pro tip: If you’re planning a day trip to Québec City, many of the tours from Montréal to Québec City depart near Old Montréal, in case you’re planning a day trip!

What’s near Old Montréal

• Notre-Dame Basilica (its interiors are absolutely stunning, and the organ music playing inside makes the experience even better)
• The Old Port and Ferris Wheel
• Rue Saint-Paul (great shopping street and cafes/restaurants here)
• Boat cruises and the Montréal Science Center
• Lots of great photo ops on every corner

>> Read More: The Complete 3 Day Itinerary for Montréal: Where to Go, Eat and Explore

2. Downtown Montréal (Centre-Ville)

Downtown Montréal is another great place to plan your stay as a first-timer for several reasons, including its action-packed streets, more modern city vibes, and its proximity to Old Montréal either walking or on the metro.

I stayed here on my second visit and realized how convenient it is to stay here, too, and enjoy even more things to do in Montréal, from Old Town to other cool neighborhoods in the city to explore.

For first-timers who want to explore all corners of the city without spending too much time commuting, consider staying downtown!

Why first-timers love Downtown Montréal

• Central location with convenient Metro access to every neighborhood for more exploring
• Tons of hotel options at different price points
• Close to many other great attractions, restaurants, and shopping
• Clean, safe, and well-lit, so it’s great for solo travelers, too

Top hotels in Downtown Montréal

• Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth: Iconic hotel with luxurious vibes.
• Le St-Martin Hôtel Particulier: Boutique feel with great city views and a small outdoor pool.
• Vogue Hotel Montréal Downtown: Newly renovated, super elegant, and walkable to lots of things.
• Le Square Phillips Hotel and Suites: Huge rooms and kitchenettes, which is great for longer stays or families.
• AC Hotel by Marriott: Stylish, modern, and reliable. Plus, it’s close to Chinatown and Place de Arts.

What’s nearby Downtwon Montréal

• Sainte-Catherine Street: one of the most popular shopping streets in Montréal
• Montréal Museum of Fine Arts
• Eaton Centre + Underground City (perfect if you’re visiting during winter)
• McGill University: Stunning university to just walk around in the middle of Montréal

>> Read More: 21 Helpful Things To Know Before Going to Montréal

3. Plateau-Mont Royal

If you’re the type of traveler who loves wandering through unique, local, and interesting neighborhoods with an endless number of cafes and restaurants, then you’ll definitely want to book your stay in Plateau-Mont Royal.

The Plateau is quirky, full of murals, and has homes with spiral staircases, balconies, and tons of cool places to check out, including restaurants and cafes.

It’s not the usual place to see big-name hotels, but instead, it’s great for those travelers looking for a local experience.

Why first-timers love Plateau-Mont Royal

• Feels like a local neighborhood
• Full of murals, spacious parks, and great restaurants/cafes
• More affordable accommodations, from boutique hotels to rental apartments
• Near Mount Royal Park

Top places to stay in Plateau-Mont Royal

• Maison Des Jardins B&B: a small bed and breakfast with garden views near the action but still quiet.
• Auberge de la Fontain: Overlooks Parc La Fontaine. It’s cozy, quiet, and great for solo or couple travelers.
• Parc Suites Hotel: Technically, it is right on the edge of Plateau/ Downtown, but it gives you access to both areas.

>> Read More: How To Easily Plan a Trip to Montréal for the First Time

What’s nearby Plateau-Mont Royal

• Park La Fontaine
• Mount Royal Park
• Mont-Royal Avenue and Rue Saint-Denis (great places for shopping, restaurants, bookshops, etc.)
• Saint-Laurent Boulevard (murals, thrift shops, nightlife)
• Schwartz’s Deli (famous smoked sandwiches in Montréal)

4. Mile End

If you’re into delicious food options, vintage shopping, and cool neighborhoods that are just that…really cool, then Mile End is your place!

Mile End is artsy and chill, and it is right next to Plateau, so the vibes are similar to each other.

While it’s not super packed with hotels, it’s 100% worth staying nearby so you can explore all there is to do here!

Why first-timers love Mile End

• Amazing food scene (it’s near Little Italy!) (bagels, delis, bakeries, coffee…)
• Cool indie shops, bookstores, and art galleries
• Very walkable
• A great mix of cultures

Best places to stay in or near Mile End

• Hotel 10: Just south of Mile End, near Saint-Laurent. It’s trendy, with a good bar, and within walking distance of the action.
• Sonder Le Guerin: It’s a boutique apartment rental that’s stylish, modern, and perfect if you like having a kitchen.

💡 Pro tip: Grab a classic Montréal bagel from St-Viateur or Fairmount Bagel, famous for bagels and walkable from around Mile End!

What’s nearby Mile End

• St-Viateur Bage and Fairmount Bagels
• Café Olimpico
• Drawn & Quarterly – great little bookstore
• Wilensky’s Light Lunch – old-school lunch counter
• Local parks, music shops, delis, and vintage shops to check out
• Jean-Tallon Market

5. The Village (Le Village Gai)

The Village (Le Village Gai) is known as one of the largest LGBTQ+ districts in North America, and it’s quickly recognizable especially during the summer, when the streets become pedestrian only, and a part of the large Rue Sainte-Catherine is hosting tons of people browsing pop-up events, live music, art, and patio restaurants.

If you’re looking for that kind of vibe, then this is the best place to stay, from solo travelers to couples and groups of friends. Dance the night away at the clubs nearby or chill at a wine bar – there’s always something to do!

Why first-timers love the Gay Village

• It’s inclusive and safe atmosphere
• Endless nightlife options
• Centrally located
• Affordable places to stay in Montréal

Top hotels in the Gay Village

• M Montréal Hostel: One of the best-rated hostels in the area, clean, fun, rooftop terrace, and great for those looking to meet other travelers.
• Maison Des Jardins B & B: Cozy atmosphere with personalized service. Its central location provides easy access to the vibrant nightlife and dining options of the Gay Village.

What’s nearby

• Rue Sainte-Catherine (pedestrian zone in the summer)
• Drag bars, clubs, and LGBTQ+ bookshops
• Metro access
• Parc Lafontaine

6. Griffintown

Griffintown is one of Montréal’s fastest-growing neighborhoods and, honestly, one of the most underrated spots for first-timers who want a more modern vibe in the city.

It’s got that up-and-coming energy, with lots of new restaurants, art galleries, parks, and converted industrialized buildings for all sorts of things.

You’ll get city views, great restaurant options, and trendy bars with fewer crowds than downtown, for example, or Old Montréal. Plus, it’s still walkable to all the main sites in Old Montréal and beyond, so it’s a great base to consider if you want to look for something a bit more peaceful but accessible.

Why first-timers love Griffintown

• Stylish and modern, think loft-style hotels and apartment rentals
• Close to downtown, old Montréal, and Lachine Canal
• Trendy restaurants, rooftop bars, and local boutiques
• It feels more like locals live nearby, so it’s not super touristy

Top hotels in Griffintown

• Hotel Alt Montréal: Bright, modern rooms, and dog-friendly. You’ll get amazing city views from here!
• Griffintown Hotel: Apartment-style hotel with full kitchens, great for longer stays or if you just want to cook for yourself.
• Boxotel: It’s technically between the Village and Griffintown, but it has loft-style rooms, hot tubs, and floor-to-ceiling windows.

What’s nearby Griffintown

• Lachine Canal (great for walking, biking, or kayaking in the summer)
• Atwater Market (great place for snacks and quick bites)
• Joe Beef, Grinder, and Le Bureau (some of the best restaurants in the area and city)
• Arsenal Contemporary Art Gallery
• Close to Old Montréal (a 10-15 min. walk)

Tips for Booking Accomodation in Montréal

Now that you have a good idea of where to stay and which hotels to check out, here are some of my best tips for booking the best place for you and your travel plans.

• Book early, especially if you’re traveling in the summer or fall. Montréal is a huge festival city, pretty much from June to September, so be sure to make your bookings early so you can score the best pricing.
• Prioritize proximity to the Metro if you’re staying a bit far from Old Montréal. If the metro isn’t nearby, check if you’ll be near the bus.
• Don’t skip out on boutique hotels or guesthouses! Montréal is full of charming, locally owned accommodations that are sometimes a bit less expensive than other chain hotels.

The Wrap-Up: Where to Stay in Montreal for First-Timers – Hotels and Neighborhoods

I hope you enjoy your stay in Montréal and that this guide helps you plan your Montréal itinerary and where you’ll be staying!

If it’s your first time visiting, I recommend choosing a neighborhood based on what you want most out of your trip, whether it’s taking in the historical sites, trying the local food, or staying somewhere more peaceful and residential.

The good thing is that Montréal is super walkable and well connected, so no matter where you stay, you’ll get a beautiful experience of the city and all it has to offer!

Where will you be staying, or which neighborhood caught your attention? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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