3 days in Montreal itinerary
A balanced 3-day Montreal itinerary mixing Old Montreal history, Plateau & Mile End neighbourhood culture, markets, parks and signature local eats. Each day includes attractions, paced transfers, meal stops and breaks.
Highlights
- Notre-Dame Basilica & Old Port
- Mile End bagels, craft coffee and microbreweries
- Mount Royal viewpoints
- Jean-Talon Market and Montreal Botanical Garden
- Biodome and Olympic Park
Itinerary
Day 1
Old Montreal & Old Port: basilica, archaeology museum, waterfront stroll, relaxed evening on the Plateau for dinner.
Breakfast at Olive et Gourmando
Classic Old Montreal bakery-café — pastries, sandwiches and good coffee to start the day.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early to avoid the line (they open early).
- Try their baked goods and a pressed sandwich if you want a heartier breakfast.
- If you plan to tour the Basilica next, this is a short walk away.
Visit Notre-Dame Basilica (Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal)
Guided or self-guided visit to the richly decorated chapel — a Montreal must-see for architecture and history.
Tips from local experts:
- Check times for the short light show (if available) and allow time for the interior photography rules.
- Buy tickets online or at the door; plan about an hour.
- Respect service times if visiting during mass.
Pointe-à-Callière — Montreal Archaeology and History Complex
Explore the archaeological remains and exhibits tracing Montreal’s urban history at the city's archaeology museum.
Tips from local experts:
- Interactive exhibits are great if you want context for Old Montreal's streets.
- Allow 1–1.5 hours to see core exhibits.
- Check the temporary exhibits for rotating shows.
Lunch at Modavie
Comfortable bistro with local wines and live jazz some evenings — a good mid-day meal in Old Montreal.
Tips from local experts:
- Popular at lunch; reservations help for groups.
- Try a classic bistro dish and share a starter if you want variety.
- Ask staff for wine pairings if you enjoy French-style wines.
Stroll the Old Port (Vieux‑Port de Montréal)
Leisurely walk along the waterfront, watch river activity, visit quays and small outdoor installations depending on season.
Tips from local experts:
- If it's warm, consider renting a pedal boat or taking a short river cruise.
- There are often street performers on the weekend.
- Bring layers — the wind off the water can be chilly.
Break at Bonsecours Market (Marché Bonsecours)
Short rest and browse local crafts in this historic market hall.
Tips from local experts:
- Great spot for a coffee or souvenir browsing.
- The building interior is photogenic — quick stop for photos.
- Shops vary by day; check opening hours for boutiques.
La Grande Roue de Montréal (Ferris Wheel) — short ride
A slow, scenic wheel ride for panoramic views of Old Montreal and the river at modest cost — a relaxed activity before evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a timed slot in busy months to avoid queues.
- Great for photos near sunset; cabins are enclosed.
- Combine with an Old Port walk if you have extra time.
Transfer to Plateau – travel by metro or taxi
Transit from Old Montreal to the Plateau neighbourhood for dinner (estimated metro/taxi transfer).
Tips from local experts:
- Allow extra time if using evening metro (Berri–UQAM is the closest major interchange).
- Taxi or rideshare is roughly 10–20 minutes depending on traffic.
- If you prefer walking, it’s about 30–40 minutes and can be a pleasant stroll in good weather.
Dinner at Le Vin Papillon
Vegetable-forward, creative dishes and natural wines — great for an unpretentious, locally admired dinner on the Plateau.
Tips from local experts:
- Reservations recommended; small plates are ideal for sharing.
- Ask for wine suggestions — the list focuses on natural wines.
- If you prefer a heartier meal, ask server for protein-focused options.
Day 2
Plateau & Mile End: famous bagels, indie coffee, microbreweries, Mount Royal viewpoints and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
Breakfast: St-Viateur Bagel
Grab a Montreal-style bagel (baked in a wood-fired oven) — Mile End specialty.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy fresh from the counter and eat it warm; St-Viateur has several locations — use the Mile End one for neighbourhood feel.
- A bagel with classic cream cheese or smoked salmon is a local favorite.
- There may be a short line around peak morning hours.
Explore Mile End neighbourhood
Walk through indie shops, murals, record stores and cafés — the creative heart of Montreal.
Tips from local experts:
- Stop for coffee at a local spot like Café Olimpico if you want a second caffeine hit.
- Look for local bookstores and vinyl shops for unique finds.
- Wear comfortable shoes — cobblestones and neighbourhood streets encourage wandering.
Lunch at Schwartz's Deli
Taste Montreal smoked meat at this longtime deli institution — signature local sandwich.
Tips from local experts:
- Popular and often crowded; be prepared to queue during lunch.
- Order the smoked meat sandwich and share fries if you want a lighter option.
- Cash and card accepted; line moves reasonably fast.
Hike up Mount Royal to the Chalet viewpoint
A moderate walk to the Kondiaronk Belvedere at Chalet du Mont-Royal for panoramic city views and a breath of fresh air.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring water; the path includes stairs and hills.
- The lookout offers one of the best city vistas — great photo stop in late afternoon light.
- Public transit options drop you near the park if you prefer avoiding the uphill walk.
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal)
Visit major collections of Canadian and international art; rotating exhibits balance classical and contemporary work.
Tips from local experts:
- Check ticketing and temporary exhibit times; the permanent collection can be visited more flexibly.
- Allow 1–2 hours depending on interest.
- There is a pleasant courtyard café for a rest afterwards.
Coffee break at Café Parvis
Downtown café with a relaxed atmosphere — ideal for a short recharge before dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Nice spot for a light pastry or espresso and to rest your feet.
- Seating fills up early evening; use it as a short half-hour recharge.
- If you prefer something stronger, ask about their aperitif options on the menu.
Transfer to dinner neighbourhood
Short metro/taxi transfer to the chosen dinner bistro (allow time for reservation arrival).
Tips from local experts:
- Plan a 20–30 minute transfer window to avoid rushing between museum and dinner.
- Use a taxi or rideshare if you prefer door-to-door timing.
- If walking, factor in extra time — Montreal distances can be longer than they appear on the map.
Dinner at L'Express
Classic Parisian-style bistro in Montreal serving reliable French cuisine — great for a relaxed, quality dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- No rush — this is a long dinner spot if you want to linger over courses.
- Reservations recommended for evenings; the menu is classic French bistro fare.
- Try a steak-frites or the daily special for an authentic experience.
Day 3
Markets, botanical gardens and the Space for Life cluster: Jean‑Talon Market, Botanical Garden, Biodome and Olympic Park, ending with a relaxed Old Montreal dinner.
Morning at Marché Jean‑Talon (Jean‑Talon Market)
Browse stalls, sample cheeses, bakery items and seasonal produce — perfect for assembling a picnic or trying local snacks.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive mid-morning for the best selection; many vendors open early.
- Bring cash for smaller vendors, though most accept cards now.
- Pick up picnic items if you plan to eat outdoors later at the Botanical Garden.
Stroll Little Italy
Short walk through Little Italy — coffee shops, bakeries and neighborhood life around St. Lawrence Boulevard.
Tips from local experts:
- If you bought picnic items, this area is pleasant for a brief sit-down or café stop.
- The neighbourhood has several artisan bakeries worth a quick look.
- Combine with a short visit to nearby shops on St-Viateur or St-Laurent.
Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin botanique de Montréal)
Large, themed gardens and greenhouses offering a peaceful ramble through curated plant collections.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes — the grounds are extensive.
- Greenhouses are excellent if the weather is mixed; allow 1–1.5 hours for highlights.
- Check seasonal displays (peony, maple, Chinese gardens depending on time of year).
Transfer to the Biodôme area (short walk/transfer)
Move across the Space for Life campus to the Biodôme for the afternoon exhibit.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a short connection on-foot; buildings are adjacent but expect a 10–30 minute transfer depending on mobility and lines.
- Check Biodôme timed entry for quickest access.
- Use onsite signage to navigate between venues.
Biodôme de Montréal
Visit ecosystems replicated indoors: tropical forest, Laurentian maple forest, Gulf of St. Lawrence and more — a fun, educational experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Timed tickets help avoid queues; plan approximately 1–1.5 hours.
- Great for families and nature lovers; exhibits are indoors and climate-controlled.
- Combine with a quick visit to the nearby Insectarium or Botanical Garden if time permits.
Quick visit to Olympic Stadium (Stade olympique)
Photo stop at the iconic Montreal Olympic Stadium and its surrounding plaza — a chance to see the 'Big O' architecture up close.
Tips from local experts:
- If interested, check guided tour times of the stadium or the tower elevator for a view.
- Allow 30–45 minutes for a surface visit and photos.
- There are cafes nearby if you need a short refreshment.
Break at Parc Maisonneuve
Relax on a bench or grassy area — a gentle wind-down after museum and garden visits.
Tips from local experts:
- Good spot to sit with a snack purchased at Jean-Talon earlier.
- Shade and benches available; pleasant for a 20–30 minute rest.
- Check for local sports or community events in the park depending on the day.
Transfer back to Old Montreal for evening
Return to Old Montreal for a final evening and dinner (metro or taxi recommended).
Tips from local experts:
- Allow 30–45 minutes for transfer depending on traffic and transit choices.
- Plan to arrive a bit early for a reservation or to stroll before dinner.
- Taxi or rideshare will be the most direct option with luggage or larger groups.
Dinner at Le Bremner
Chef-driven Old Montreal restaurant with creative small plates — a fitting end to a 3-day visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Reservations recommended; menu features seafood and seasonal small plates.
- Consider sharing multiple dishes to taste a broader range of the menu.
- Ask staff about daily specials and recommended wine pairings.
