Downtown Montreal is an ideal location for a short stay in the city. With its vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere, Montreal is a city full of places to explore, and Hôtel Monville is perfectly situated to enjoy it. Whether you’re passionate about art, culture, gastronomy, or shopping, this neighborhood has something for everyone. Here’s a selection of activities and must-see places, listed by their proximity to Hotel Monville.

Oasis Immersion at the Convention Center

Located just two minutes from Hotel Monville, Oasis Immersion offers a walking museum experience, featuring three immersive galleries, two light-based experiences, and a lounge space. The program highlights some of the best talents in immersive arts and presents current themes in an inspiring and optimistic light. The current exhibitions include Nature Vive, Imaginature, and Van Gogh Distorsion. General admission is $29.50 per person.

Stroll Through the Chinatown District

Less than five minutes on foot, Chinatown is a true sensory journey. On July 20th, 2023, the Government of Quebec designated the heart of Montreal’s Chinatown as a heritage site. This vibrant neighborhood is filled with restaurants, shops, and markets inspired by Asian culture. You can enjoy authentic cuisine with specialties from China, Vietnam, Thailand, and Korea. It’s the perfect spot for a delicious break or an immersive walk through a typical setting.

Wander Around Place des Arts in the Quartier des Spectacles

The Quartier des Spectacles is the cultural heart of Montreal. It’s home to many theaters and concert halls, including the famous Place des Arts. Whether you’re drawn to a concert, a play, or a musical, this place allows you to experience Montreal’s rich cultural scene. In summer, festivals like the Montreal International Jazz Festival or the Francos de Montréal take over the streets and outdoor spaces, creating a unique atmosphere.

Shop on Sainte-Catherine Street

Sainte-Catherine Street is one of Montreal’s most bustling areas. Numerous shopping centers are located here, making it the ideal spot for a shopping spree: Eaton Centre, Hudson’s Bay, and Cours Mont Royal. Many restaurants and cafés line the street, offering a wide variety to satisfy every taste.

Admire the Ring at Place Ville-Marie

The Ring at Place Ville-Marie is one of Montreal’s iconic symbols. This gigantic stainless steel ring, located in the public square in front of the Ville-Marie complex, is an outdoor artwork that offers a spectacular view of the skyscrapers and Mount Royal. It’s a popular spot for photos, especially at sunset when the sunlight passes through the center of the ring.

Discover the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art

If you love modern art and avant-garde creations, the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art is the place to be. Since its founding in 1964, this museum has amassed over 8,000 works by Quebecois, Canadian, and international artists. This collection is a social legacy and a shared heritage that stands out for its diversity and depth. General admission is $10 per person.

Visit the McCord Stewart Museum

The McCord Stewart Museum is a must-visit for those interested in Montreal and Quebec’s history. Based in the heart of the city for over 100 years, it highlights life in Montreal from the past to the present with exhibitions on social history, traditions, and the evolution of Montreal’s culture. The museum features old photographs, historical objects, and temporary exhibitions covering various aspects of Canadian culture. General admission is $20 per person.

Explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

Just a few minutes’ walk from the McCord Stewart Museum, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a true treasure for art lovers. Founded in 1860, the museum was built with the generosity of several generations of Montrealers. The MBAM’s collection showcases Quebec and Canadian heritage, Indigenous art, and international art in a modern and innovative perspective. It houses nearly 47,000 paintings, sculptures, graphic art works, photographs, multimedia installations, and decorative arts objects, from antiquity to the present day. Admission is $27 online for visitors 26 years and older.

Article written by Naomi Dupont – Travel blogger.