2 days in Montreal itinerary
Two-day balanced Montreal itinerary mixing local food markets, neighborhood walks, viewpoints, museums, and relaxed breaks. Pacing is realistic with short transfers and optional spa time; all places are specific venues you can find on Google Maps.
Highlights
- Mount Royal lookout
- Mile End bagels
- Jean-Talon Market
- Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
- Old Montreal & Notre-Dame Basilica
- Pointe-à-Callière
- Lachine Canal and Atwater Market
- Classic poutine at La Banquise
Itinerary
Day 1
Mount Royal morning viewpoint, local bagel breakfast in Mile End, market lunch, afternoon museum, then Old Montreal for evening and dinner.
Mount Royal Lookout (Parc du Mont-Royal)
Start with fresh air and city views from the Kondiaronk Belvedere on Mount Royal to get your bearings.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light jacket — it can be windy on the lookout.
- Good spot for morning photos of the city skyline.
- If you have time, walk a short loop on the scenic trails.
Transfer: Walk/Transit to Fairmount Bagel
Short transfer down to Mile End to taste a Montreal-style bagel.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow time for a brief line at the bakery during weekend mornings.
- You can walk (~20 min) or take a quick transit ride.
- Carry small bills for cash-preferred spots.
Breakfast: Fairmount Bagel
Classic Montreal bagel fresh from the oven — a local alternative to chain breakfasts.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a sesame or cinnamon sugar bagel; eat it fresh and warm.
- Fairmount slices and heats if you prefer — popular with locals.
- Counter service only; bring cash or card.
Explore Mile End neighborhood
Stroll side streets, browse indie shops, record stores and street art — an authentic Montreal neighborhood.
Tips from local experts:
- Check out local coffee shops or small boutiques.
- Look for murals and independent bookstores around Saint-Viateur and Fairmount.
- Wear comfortable shoes for cobbled sidewalks.
Transfer to Jean-Talon Market
Short transit/walk to one of the city's best food markets.
Tips from local experts:
- Buses or a short drive connect Mile End and Jean-Talon.
- Keep a reusable bag if you plan to pick up snacks.
- Market is busiest on weekends — explore the side aisles for local vendors.
Lunch & browsing: Jean-Talon Market
Taste local produce, cheese, charcuterie and small stalls — a casual food-lovers' lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- Try local cheeses, fresh fruit, or a cooked meal from food stalls.
- Sit in the market or take food to a nearby bench; bring cash for some vendors.
- If you want to buy, pick items that travel well (cheese, preserves).
Transfer to Plateau murals & shops
Move to the Plateau for a relaxed afternoon of murals, secondhand shops and coffee culture.
Tips from local experts:
- Short transit or walking transfer; keep an eye out for painted staircases and alleys.
- This area is great for window-shopping and street photography.
- If you want a sit-down coffee, note cafés are often busy mid-afternoon.
Plateau stroll: murals and boutiques
Explore vibrant streets (Saint-Laurent, Saint-Denis) and look for local art and vinyl shops.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow time to pop into a few shops — many local boutiques are one-offs.
- Street art is constantly changing; keep your camera ready.
- If you want a snack, try a small bakery on Saint-Laurent.
Transfer to Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Head downtown to the museum for a cultural afternoon.
Tips from local experts:
- Short metro ride or taxi will get you downtown quickly.
- Check museum opening hours and any special exhibit times.
- Ticket lines can be brisk; consider buying online.
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts visit
Browse a mix of Canadian and international art with an efficient 1–2 hour visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Focus on 2–3 galleries to keep the visit relaxed.
- Museum shop has quality local design items if you want a keepsake.
- Cloakroom is available for large bags.
Transfer to nearby café
Quick walk to a well-regarded coffee shop for a mid-afternoon break.
Tips from local experts:
- A short walk is often faster than transit in this area.
- If the café is busy, try a nearby alternative — downtown has many options.
- Use this time to recharge and review evening plans.
Coffee break: Café Myriade
Short coffee break to rest legs and enjoy a high-quality espresso or tea.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a single-origin espresso or a local pastry.
- Seats can be limited; consider takeaway if you’re on a tight schedule.
- Great spot to check transit times to Old Montreal.
Transfer to Old Montreal / Hotel Nelligan (check-in)
Head into Old Montreal to settle in for the night; short transfer from downtown.
Tips from local experts:
- Old Montreal is best explored on foot once you're there.
- If you have luggage, a taxi or rideshare is easier than transit.
- Check hotel check-in policies if arriving earlier or later than planned.
Hotel check-in: Hotel Nelligan
Quick check-in and drop off bags so you can explore Old Montreal unencumbered.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep ID and reservation confirmation handy.
- Ask the front desk for recommendations for the evening if you want alternatives.
- Store larger luggage if you plan to walk a lot tonight.
Break: Freshen up at the hotel
Take a short rest, freshen up and prepare for dinner in Old Montreal.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this time to change into comfortable evening attire if needed.
- Confirm any dinner reservations.
- If you have energy, a short walk to the waterfront before dinner is lovely.
Dinner: Modavie (Old Montreal live-jazz bistro)
Classic French bistro fare with live jazz in a warm Old Montreal setting — a relaxed local dinner option.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early or reserve a table; live music often starts later in the evening.
- Menu changes seasonally — ask about local specials.
- Good place to sample a classic Montréal-style bistro meal.
Day 2
Old Montreal in the morning (basilica, museum), relaxed spa break, afternoon market and canal walk, finish with classic Montreal poutine and an evening neighborhood stroll.
Breakfast: Olive et Gourmando (Old Montreal)
Start with a hearty, local breakfast or pastry at a popular Old Montreal café.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early to avoid the weekend queues.
- Try a signature sandwich or freshly baked pastry.
- Great spot for people-watching on the terrace in good weather.
Transfer: Short walk to Notre-Dame Basilica
A brief walk through cobbled streets to the Basilica.
Tips from local experts:
- Streets can be uneven — wear comfortable shoes.
- Take a detour past Place Jacques-Cartier for lively squares.
- Photography is often allowed in the exterior areas.
Visit: Notre-Dame Basilica
Tour the stunning interior of this iconic Montreal landmark (or attend a short organ/music presentation).
Tips from local experts:
- Check times for the short multimedia show or mass if you wish to attend.
- Entrance fee often applies; bring a small amount for tickets.
- Interior photography may have restrictions during services.
Transfer: Walk to Pointe-à-Callière
Short walk along Old Montreal toward the waterfront site museum.
Tips from local experts:
- The museum is close to the waterfront; enjoy the architecture along the way.
- Tickets can be purchased at the museum; consider timed-entry when busy.
- Allow a few extra minutes if you want souvenir photos on the way.
Pointe-à-Callière: Archaeology & history visit
Explore Montreal’s history through archaeology, multimedia exhibits and the city’s founding site.
Tips from local experts:
- Great for understanding Montreal’s origins — allocate ~1.5–2 hours.
- Some exhibits are underground and can be cooler — bring a light layer.
- Audio guides can enrich the visit.
Transfer to lunch at Jardin Nelson
Short walk to a classic Old Montreal terrace restaurant for a relaxed midday meal.
Tips from local experts:
- Terrace seating is pleasant in warm weather — request outdoor if available.
- Reservations recommended for weekend afternoons.
- Portions are generous; share plates if you want to sample more.
Lunch: Jardin Nelson (Old Montreal terrace)
Enjoy a relaxed lunch on the terrace with classic bistro-style dishes in the heart of Old Montreal.
Tips from local experts:
- Try the house specialties and enjoy the atmosphere of Place Jacques-Cartier.
- Vegetarian options are typically available; ask staff for daily specials.
- A good spot to rest before an afternoon of walking.
Stroll Old Port and Old Montreal
After lunch, wander the waterfront, historic streets and shops at a relaxed pace.
Tips from local experts:
- Pacing is easy here — take time for photos of cobbled streets and the river.
- If you’re interested in boat tours, you’ll find ticket desks on the quay.
- Keep an eye on pickpockets in crowded areas.
Transfer to Bota Bota spa (water taxi/walk)
Short transfer to the spa-boat for a relaxed afternoon — recommend booking in advance.
Tips from local experts:
- Book treatments or access slots ahead, especially on weekends.
- Bring swimwear and a towel; the spa offers thermal circuits and views of the river.
- Allow time for check-in at the spa.
Relaxation: Bota Bota spa-sur-l'eau
Unwind with the spa’s thermal circuit on the boat — a restorative break in the middle of the trip.
Tips from local experts:
- Enjoy the heat-cold cycles and river views; it's a local favorite for relaxing.
- Lockers are provided; bring minimal valuables.
- Plan for ~90 minutes to fully enjoy the thermal circuit.
Transfer to Atwater Market
Short drive or transit to Atwater Market for late-afternoon browsing and a canal walk.
Tips from local experts:
- Taxis or a short transit ride are the fastest ways to reach Atwater from the Old Port.
- If you bought goods earlier, Atwater has good packaging for transport.
- This transfer gives you a taste of a different market neighborhood.
Atwater Market browsing
Explore vendors selling cheeses, meats, baked goods and seasonal produce — perfect for tasting and light shopping.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a local charcuterie or some pastries from the market bakeries.
- The market is smaller than Jean-Talon but very charming and canal-side.
- If you bought food earlier, you can picnic along the canal.
Lachine Canal waterfront stroll
Walk along the scenic canal paths for a relaxed late-afternoon activity — rentals and cafes line parts of the route.
Tips from local experts:
- Canal paths are flat and great for a relaxed stroll or quick bike rental.
- Sunset along the canal is especially pretty in summer.
- Watch for cyclists on mixed-use paths.
Transfer to dinner: La Banquise (Plateau)
Move toward Plateau area for a relaxed local dinner of poutine or share plates.
Tips from local experts:
- La Banquise is casual and can have a line — arrive a bit early for shorter waits.
- Many dishes are shareable; try a few poutine variations.
- Open late — good option if your day runs long.
Dinner: La Banquise (classic Montreal poutine)
Sample a variety of poutines — a fun, local and unpretentious final dinner option.
Tips from local experts:
- Classic poutine is a must-try; they offer many creative variations.
- Portions are generous — consider sharing to sample more.
- Cash and card accepted; expect a lively, casual atmosphere.
Transfer to Mile End evening stroll
Short transfer to nearby Mile End for an evening stroll, desserts or a casual bar.
Tips from local experts:
- Mile End has many late-night cafés and bakeries if you want dessert.
- This neighborhood has a relaxed nightlife — choose a low-key bar if desired.
- Keep an eye on transit schedules if heading back to your hotel late.
Evening: Mile End neighborhood stroll
Finish with a relaxed walk through Mile End — a final chance for local cafés, bakeries or record shops.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want late-night coffee or a pastry, St-Viateur Bagel or local cafés may still be open.
- Enjoy the quieter streets after a full day of sightseeing.
- Plan your return to the hotel or transit connection in advance.
