1 day in Montreal itinerary
A balanced one-day Montreal itinerary focusing on local favorites: start with Mile End bagels, a Mount Royal viewpoint hike, Plateau streets and a classic bistro lunch, a museum visit, then an evening in Old Montreal with a relaxed dinner and dessert.
Highlights
- St-Viateur Bagel in Mile End
- Belvédère Kondiaronk (Mount Royal viewpoint)
- Plateau-Mont-Royal murals and streets
- Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
- Old Montreal & Old Port
- Dinner at Le Bremner
Itinerary
Day 1
One-day route that balances walking, viewpoints, neighborhoods, cultural stops, and meals with realistic pacing.
Breakfast: St-Viateur Bagels (Mile End)
Grab a classic Montreal-style wood-fired bagel and a coffee — a local favorite with a no-frills counter service.
Tips from local experts:
- Get a sesame or plain bagel warm from the oven.
- If it's busy, order to-go and eat on a nearby bench to save time.
- Cash and card accepted; queues move quickly in the morning.
Stroll & browse: Mile End shops and streets
Wander the nearby streets of Mile End — independent bookstores, boutiques, murals and cafés.
Tips from local experts:
- Check out local record shops and independent bookstores on Saint-Viateur and Bernard.
- Wear comfortable shoes — cobblestones and tree-lined streets abound.
- Look for street art on side streets around Saint-Laurent and Bernard.
Transfer to Mount Royal Park
Walk or take a short transit ride toward the Mount Royal Park access path (trailhead).
Tips from local experts:
- If you're walking, follow Mount Royal Avenue west/uphill; allow extra time if you prefer a gentler path.
- Alternatively, take STM bus routes that serve Parc du Mont-Royal entrances.
- Bring a light layer — higher elevation can be cooler.
Hike to Belvédère Kondiaronk (Kondiaronk Belvedere)
A moderate walk/hike to the Kondiaronk viewpoint for one of Montreal's best skyline views and photo opportunities.
Tips from local experts:
- The viewpoint offers excellent photo angles of downtown Montreal — go early to avoid crowds.
- There are steps and some uphill sections; wear good shoes and take water.
- In cooler months, paths can be slippery — use designated trails.
Descend and transfer toward the Plateau-Mont-Royal
Walk down from Mount Royal toward Avenue du Mont-Royal to reach the Plateau neighborhood.
Tips from local experts:
- Take a slightly different route down to see other park viewpoints and be mindful of cyclists on shared paths.
- If you prefer public transit, several bus routes link the park to Plateau streets.
- Plan for some uphill walking again later in the day if you return to the mountain.
Explore Plateau-Mont-Royal: murals, Saint-Denis & shops
Wander the Plateau's colorful streets, see the murals, and browse independent boutiques and galleries.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk along Rue Saint-Denis and Boulevard Saint-Laurent for cafés and shops.
- Keep an eye out for iconic Montreal rowhouses and staircases — great for photos.
- If you want a quick snack, look for small patisseries and specialty shops along the way.
Short transfer to lunch spot
A brief walk to the classic French bistro for lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- Reservations recommended for lunch at popular bistros.
- If lines are long, try a weekday counter-service spot nearby as a backup.
- Allow a few minutes buffer for seating during busy service times.
Lunch: L'Express (classic French bistro)
Enjoy a classic French bistro meal — steak frites, charcuterie or daily specials in a timeless setting.
Tips from local experts:
- Order the house specials and consider sharing a starter or dessert.
- Service can be formal; allow time to enjoy the experience.
- Make a reservation if possible, especially on weekends.
Transfer to Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Head downtown to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts for an afternoon of art and exhibitions.
Tips from local experts:
- A short metro ride (Orange Line to McGill) or a 20–30 minute walk will get you there.
- Check museum hours and any special exhibit ticketing in advance.
- Lockers available for large bags at the museum entrance.
Visit: Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA)
Explore the MMFA's permanent collections and rotating exhibitions — a calm cultural stop that showcases local and international art.
Tips from local experts:
- Allocate about 60–90 minutes for a solid highlights visit; longer if you enjoy contemporary or decorative arts.
- Audio guides and labeled highlights are available to orient your visit.
- Check for timed exhibits that may require advance tickets.
Coffee break: Café Parvis
A relaxed café break to recharge with a coffee, pastry or light snack in a cozy setting near the museum.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a local pastry and a café au lait — great spot for a short rest.
- Good place to check messages and map the rest of your afternoon.
- Space can be tight at peak times; consider takeaway if needed.
Transfer to Old Montreal
Make your way to the historic Old Montreal district for cobblestone streets, architecture and the Old Port.
Tips from local experts:
- A short metro ride to Place-d'Armes or a 20–30 minute walk will bring you into the heart of Old Montreal.
- Use comfortable shoes for cobblestones and uneven pavement.
- Carry a light jacket in cooler months — waterfront evenings can be breezy.
Visit: Notre-Dame Basilica and Place d'Armes (exterior and optional interior)
Admire the exterior architecture and decide whether to visit inside the Basilica (timed entry tickets may be required). Walk around Place d'Armes and the surrounding historic square.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want to tour inside Notre-Dame Basilica, check opening times and ticketing in advance.
- Allow time to appreciate the architecture and the square's atmosphere.
- Photography rules may apply inside the Basilica.
Old Port stroll: waterfront and Clock Tower
Walk the Old Port boardwalk, visit the Clock Tower area and enjoy waterfront views — a relaxing riverside promenade.
Tips from local experts:
- The Old Port is great for photos and people-watching; consider the Clock Tower lookout for another angle.
- If you have energy, short bike rentals or pedal boats are available in season.
- Bring a light layer — it can be windy along the water.
Transfer / relax before dinner
Short stroll or wait while the restaurant prepares seating — take a breather and freshen up.
Tips from local experts:
- If you reserved, confirm your booking and expected arrival time.
- Use this time to check menus and plan any dietary requests.
- A quick restroom break is handy before a longer dinner.
Dinner: Le Bremner (Old Montreal)
A locally-loved spot for inventive seasonal dishes in a cozy Old Montreal setting — a great alternative to more touristy chains.
Tips from local experts:
- Reservations strongly recommended; menu is seasonal and changes frequently.
- Try sharing a few small plates if you're dining with companions.
- Inform staff of allergies or dietary restrictions when booking.
Evening stroll: Place Jacques-Cartier
Enjoy the lively square, street artists and ambient evening atmosphere in Old Montreal's main pedestrian plaza.
Tips from local experts:
- Place Jacques-Cartier is lively in the evening — good for people-watching and street performances.
- If you want quieter photos, walk a couple blocks away from the main square.
- Pick up a small souvenir from local artisans if desired.
Dessert / coffee: Juliette & Chocolat (Vieux-Montréal)
Indulge in a chocolate-based dessert or a coffee to round out the evening at this popular dessert-focused spot.
Tips from local experts:
- Share a fondue or a chocolate dessert if you're with companions.
- This is a popular spot — expect a short wait during peak times.
- They offer hot chocolate, pastries and decadent desserts.
