I’d like to begin this post by commending Air Transat. Despite never having taken Air Transat before, and reading mixed reviews, I thought the check-in, arrival and departure went smoothly, and service was prompt, warm and friendly! :) Also, the budget prices were much appreciated. Overall, in terms of people I’ve spoken to , some were friendly, and some were closed off. We arrived pretty tired, went to the grocery store to get groceries and cooked a delicious meal at our Air B N B, as the place we had wanted to go to originally was too noisy and had a pub-like atmosphere. My first impressions of Montreal at night were that it was surprisingly empty for a Saturday evening, but people were cloistered in the urban and dining areas. It seems super hip!
It also reminds me of Paris, in that streets are quite narrow, cobblestone-filled and not the cleanest. Montreal definitely has a thriving arts and cultural scene, and a certain quirky charm to it!
Here are some useful tips:
For the metro pass, definitely get the multi-day pass (each ride is already $3.50, so this is more economical).
Bring a double charger if you are out and about, as battery power drains easily if you are taking photos and using Google Map.
Definitely plan and map out your itinerary beforehand. You can ask me for my itinerary and navigate at your own discretion :)
Day #2
Stop #1: Bar A Beurre
They had a good breakfast deal at $15, and avocado toast and parfait! Pastries galore for sugar lovers! Italian butter cookies are a specialty at this bakeshop, which also offers breads, cakes & macaron.
Stop #2: Notre Dame Basilica [Highlight]
Tip: Book your tickets online for $15 to skip the queue or Aura experience.
Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the oldest examples of Gothic Revival religious architecture in Canada. Located in the district of Old Montreal, at the time it was built, it was a daring, innovative edifice on a scale unequalled anywhere else in North America. The architect was James O'Donnell, an Irish immigrant to New York City. I truly recommend booking it and wandering around, as I am sure you can identify with the cultural and historic significance. The interiors were seriously stunning, and you can’t help but be filled with a sense of wonder and peace as you enter and explore the intricate facades.
STOP #3: Old Montreal Free City Walking Tour
Personally, I found this to be a really informative, quirky and insightful tour! Our tour guide was very enthusiastic, and we discovered quite a bit about the culture and history of Old Montreal along the way! She explained the difference between Anglophones and Francophones, as well as Montreal’s population and history. Be sure to be there early and allocate 2 hours 15 minutes for the tour!
The Place Jacques Cartier
Chateau Ramezay’s unique garden and how Montreal became an American city for a short while
Notre-Dame de Bonsecours Chapel, also known as the “Sailor’s church” - thought this was a quaint church
An overview of the Old Port and its recent transformation
The Place d’Armes with its many historical landmarks
Canada’s former Wall Street Rue Saint-Jacques West
The Quartier International, a true symbol of Montreal’s modern Architecture
An introduction to the Montreal Underground
And many unbelievable (but true!) stories along the way!
An actual piece of the Berlin Wall! Pretty incredible to witness in person! “The City of Montréal chose the Ruelle des Fortifications, adjacent to the Montréal World Trade Centre, as the site for the installation of the segment of the wall. A crossroads of international trade, a site of openness, tourism, and transit, this site was the most appropriate to host this “witness to history” that stands, in fact, where the fortifications of Montréal once stood.”
These cobblestone streets honestly never get old, despite the historical connotations!
Of course, despite the tour being free, a tip is recommended for all of your tour guide’s hard work!
Views of St. Lawrence River which interestingly enough is one of the largest hydrologic systems in the world.
STOP #4: Ca Lem
Fans of sweet treats would enjoy this place - I could only stomach a bit of ice cream. The pandan coco and strawberry lychee were to die for and a well-deserved sweet treat in MTRL. I can’t comment on the sweetness of the flavours as I only tried 2 - however, it was definitely aesthetic and refreshing.
STOP #5: Sushi Momo
This contemporary, super aesthetic and all-vegan Japanese cuisine was suggested as a personal recommendation from someone on the airplane, and what a great suggestion it was! Honestly, the sauces do not make it super healthy, but order it at your discretion.
The green goddess and umami were both delicious, and I couldn’t finish all. If you are a light eater, I’d budget 1-1.5 rolls, if not go bananas. The cutlery used was really elegant, might I add!
Look forward to more exploring of this beautiful city!