A Romantic 2-Day Escape in Montréal
An intimate, unhurried two-day itinerary for couples in Montréal (June — Summer). Combines Old Montréal charm, Plateau & Mile End neighborhood strolls, scenic golden-hour moments, rooftop cocktails, a floating spa for two, and intimate dinners.
Highlights
- Sunset rooftop cocktails overlooking Old Montréal
- Couples spa at Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau
- Belvédère Kondiaronk (Mount Royal) for a private sunset viewpoint
- Cobbled streets and Notre-Dame Basilica in Old Montréal
- Intimate, reservation-only dinners
Itinerary
Day 1
Old Montréal charm, a leisurely Mount Royal afternoon, rooftop golden hour and a candlelit dinner.
Breakfast at Olive et Gourmando
Cozy, beloved café in Old Montréal — perfect for a relaxed pastry and coffee to start the day together.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early (around 9 AM) to grab a quiet corner table — this is a popular spot.
- Share a pastry and a fruit tart for a light, romantic breakfast rather than heavy plates.
- If you want to linger, ask for a table by the window for people-watching on the cobblestones.
Stroll through Old Montréal (Vieux-Montréal)
Wander the cobblestone streets, discover quiet lanes, boutiques, and historic plazas — ideal for hand-in-hand exploring.
Tips from local experts:
- Stick to Rue St-Paul and the small side lanes for charming photo opportunities away from crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes — cobblestones are picturesque but uneven.
- Peek into courtyard galleries and artisan shops for intimate finds (perfect for small, meaningful souvenirs).
Visit Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal
Short, atmospheric visit to the richly decorated basilica — a romantic, quiet cultural stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy timed-entry tickets in advance to avoid lines and ensure a calm visit together.
- Sit for a few minutes under the dramatic lighting — great moment for a reflective pause with your partner.
- If available, check the schedule for brief evening light-and-sound sessions (they're intimate and memorable).
Leisurely lunch at Modavie (Old Montréal)
Comfortable French bistro with live jazz some afternoons — a relaxed, intimate lunch spot.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve ahead and request a quieter table (away from the bar) for a more intimate conversation.
- If jazz is playing, choose a seat where you can both enjoy the music without shouting.
- Try sharing a few small plates so you can sample more flavors together.
Transfer to Mount Royal Park (short drive or taxi)
Scenic short transfer up to Mont Royal for afternoon greenery and vistas.
Tips from local experts:
- If you enjoy walking, take the scenic route up Avenue du Parc; otherwise a short taxi avoids stairs.
- Ask the driver to drop you near the Kondiaronk Belvedere for the best lookout access.
- Bring a light layer — evenings on the mountain can be cooler even in summer.
Relaxing picnic and views at Belvédère Kondiaronk
Spread a blanket near the Kondiaronk lookout for panoramic city views — ideal for a private, romantic pause.
Tips from local experts:
- Pick up a bottle of local wine and picnic snacks from a nearby shop (observe local public drinking rules) and arrive with a small picnic blanket.
- Position yourselves to the west side of the belvedere for the best views toward downtown and the river.
- Bring a portable speaker for soft music, but keep volume low to preserve the serene atmosphere.
Coffee break at Café Santropol (Plateau)
Charming garden café perfect for a quiet drink and people-watching while you recharge.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a corner table in the garden if it's available — very romantic in summer.
- Try one of their signature sandwiches if you’re slightly peckish after the picnic.
- The courtyard can be shaded and cool; bring a light wrap for shaded seating in the evening breeze.
Leisurely boardwalk stroll in the Old Port (golden hour)
Return to the Old Port for a hand-in-hand walk along the river as the light softens.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk toward the Clock Tower for open views of the river — excellent for sunset photos together.
- If you want a private moment, take one of the small piers off the main promenade.
- Bring a light jacket for the breezy riverside air after dusk.
Rooftop cocktails at Terrasse William Gray
A polished rooftop terrace with skyline and basilica views — a perfect golden-hour cocktail spot.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a spot on the terrace and request a table with a Notre-Dame view for sunset ambiance.
- Try their signature cocktails and arrive slightly before sunset to watch the changing light over the city.
- Dress smart-casual — some terraces have a relaxed dress code but nicer attire elevates the evening.
Dinner at Le Club Chasse et Pêche
Intimate, reservation-only dining with a romantic, dimly lit atmosphere — ideal for a memorable evening meal.
Tips from local experts:
- Book well in advance and mention it's a special evening — they can often accommodate small gestures.
- Ask the sommelier for wine pairings; choose a few shared plates for a convivial tasting-style dinner.
- Request a quieter table away from the kitchen if you want privacy for conversation.
Day 2
Mile End & Plateau morning, museum culture, a pampering couples' spa afternoon on the water, and a sunset cruise followed by an elegant late dinner.
Morning espresso at Café Olimpico (Mile End)
Lively, authentic café in Mile End — a great spot to fuel up before exploring the neighborhood.
Tips from local experts:
- Grab an espresso and a pastry to go and enjoy wandering the nearby streets together.
- Sit at a small table outside if you want to soak up the local vibe — it's people-watching heaven.
- Bring cash as a backup; the café is traditional and can be busier during peak times.
Explore Mile End boutiques & cozy lanes
Discover independent bookstores, artisan shops, and quiet side streets — perfect for intimate discovery together.
Tips from local experts:
- Pop into local shops like vinyl stores and independent bakeries for sweet, small souvenirs.
- Look for street art together — it makes for fun, candid photos and shared memories.
- Avoid peak weekend times if you prefer quieter browsing; weekdays are calmer.
Transfer to Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal (Montreal Museum of Fine Arts)
Short transfer into the Golden Square Mile to visit the museum's intimate galleries and sculpture courtyards.
Tips from local experts:
- Take a taxi or rideshare to save time and rest your feet for the museum visit.
- If you both enjoy photography, ask about quieter galleries for soft lighting and reflection shots.
- Check current temporary exhibitions online to pick a few galleries you both most want to see.
Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
A calm cultural interlude — explore classical and contemporary galleries at a gentle pace.
Tips from local experts:
- Prioritize 2–3 galleries so your visit stays relaxed and intimate rather than rushed.
- Sit in the museum's courtyard or sculpture garden for a quiet chat and a romantic pause.
- Look for guided mini-tours or audio guides that focus on highlights for a shared cultural experience.
Lunch at L'Express (classic French bistro on Rue Saint-Denis)
Timeless Parisian-style bistro with an intimate ambiance — ideal for a leisurely midday meal.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a small table near the front windows for a classic bistro atmosphere.
- Order a bottle to share and sample several plates rather than large individual mains.
- Reserve ahead — even lunchtime can be busy on weekdays in summer.
Couples spa experience at Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau
Float together on Montréal's waters at this award-winning spa — thermal circuits and private treatments make for a deeply relaxing afternoon.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a couples massage in advance and arrive early to enjoy the thermal circuit together before treatment.
- Bring swimsuits, flip-flops, and an extra warm layer for the boat deck between treatments.
- Choose a late-afternoon slot to enjoy golden-hour light over the river from the spa terrace.
Transfer to Old Port cruise departure point
Short transfer back to the Old Port to board a late-afternoon/early-evening cruise on the St. Lawrence.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm departure location with your cruise reservation — the Old Port has several piers.
- Time this transfer so you arrive 20–30 minutes before boarding for a relaxed check-in.
- If you prefer, walk a short riverside path from the spa to enjoy river views instead of a taxi.
Sunset cruise on the St. Lawrence with Croisières AML
A relaxed cruise for two to watch the city soften into evening light — romantic and scenic from the water.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose seating on the outer decks for unobstructed views — bring a light wrap for the breeze.
- Confirm the cruise's sunset timing when booking (seasonal) to ensure best light over the water.
- Bring a compact camera or phone for photos; reflections on the river at golden hour are especially flattering.
Elegant late dinner at Maison Boulud (Ritz-Carlton Montréal)
Finish your escape with refined, intimate dining — a composed menu and attentive service sets a romantic close to the trip.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a late table and tell the restaurant it’s a special evening — small touches can be arranged.
- Dress elegantly; the dining room's ambiance pairs well with a smart outfit for memorable photos.
- Consider a tasting menu to share the chef's selections and prolong the intimate experience.
