Where to Stay in Montreal, Quebec: 6 Best Areas and Hotels

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Planning a trip to Montreal and not sure where to stay? Well, you’re in the right place!

Montreal is a city of vibrant contrasts, French and English, old and new, bustling and peaceful, and each neighborhood brings its own unique charm to the table. Whether you’re drawn to cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture or buzzing nightlife and cutting-edge food scenes, there’s a corner of this city that’s perfect for you.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through six of the best neighborhoods to stay in, from historic Old Montreal to hip, modern Griffintown. And of course, we’ve included hotel recommendations for every budget, from luxe boutique stays to comfy, affordable finds.

Let’s dive in and find your perfect base in this incredible city!

Where To Stay in Montreal Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Montreal

Montreal is one of those cities where getting around is refreshingly easy. The metro is fast and reliable, most neighborhoods are walkable, and key attractions are often just a short ride or scenic stroll away. But where you stay can still make a big difference, especially if you want to minimize travel time or be close to the things you care most about.

Old Montreal is ideal if you want historic charm and sightseeing right on your doorstep, while areas like the Plateau Mont-Royal offer a more laid-back, local vibe with great cafés and colorful side streets. If you’re here for festivals or nightlife, the Latin Quarter puts you right in the middle of the action. 

• Old Montreal – A postcard-perfect mix of centuries-old buildings, riverside promenades, and cozy bistros. InterContinental Montreal by IHG offers modern comfort in the heart of it all.

• Downtown Montreal – Central, convenient, and full of energy, this is where you’ll find big-name shopping, museums, and metro access in every direction. Hôtel Le Germain Montréal delivers sleek style and warm service right near Peel Station.

• Plateau Mont-Royal – With its colorful row houses, indie boutiques, and buzzing cafés, this neighborhood is pure Montreal personality. Sonder Le Guerin Apartments gives you space to spread out with apartment-style stays and a local feel.

• Quartier des Spectacles / Latin Quarter – The city’s cultural stage, this lively area is packed with theaters, bars, and year-round festivals. Fairfield Inn by Marriott Montreal Downtown puts you right in the middle of the action with excellent value.

• Golden Square Mile – Once home to Canada’s wealthiest families, this elegant district blends historic charm with upscale boutiques and museums. Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown is a newly renovated hotel just off Rue de la Montagne.

• Griffintown – Trendy, modern, and packed with character, this former industrial zone has become a hotbed of creativity and great food. WERFY Luxury Apart-Hotel offers sleek, spacious suites close to both the Lachine Canal and Old Montreal.

Where to Stay in Montreal

Old Town Montreal

Old Montreal (or Vieux-Montréal) is hands down one of the most atmospheric places to stay in the city. With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and leafy plazas, it feels like you’ve stepped into a slice of Europe, but with a distinctly French-Canadian twist.

This area is perfect for first-time visitors who want to be surrounded by history, architecture, and postcard-worthy scenery at every turn.

You’ll be within walking distance of some of the city’s biggest attractions: the Old Port, Notre-Dame Basilica, Place Jacques-Cartier, and the lively waterfront promenade. There are also plenty of art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy bistros tucked down narrow lanes. We loved wandering aimlessly here, especially early in the morning before the crowds arrived.

That said, Old Montreal is one of the busiest and most tourist-heavy parts of the city, especially in summer. While it’s packed with charm and history, it’s not the place to go for peace and quiet, and prices tend to be higher than in other neighborhoods.

Pros

• Gorgeous architecture and cobblestone streets
• Walking distance to major landmarks and the Old Port
• Tons of restaurants, bars, and boutique shopping

Cons

• Can feel crowded, especially during peak season
• More expensive than most other areas in Montreal

Hotel Place D’Armes – $$$

Set across four historic 19th-century buildings right in the heart of Old Montreal, Hotel Place D’Armes absolutely nails that blend of old-world elegance and modern flair. Rooms are spacious and stylish, with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and thoughtful touches like plush robes and Nespresso machines.

We love that there’s a rooftop terrace with views over the city, plus an on-site spa and a sleek bar downstairs. The location is also hard to beat, just steps from Notre-Dame Basilica and Place d’Armes metro. Expect to pay around $400 to $800 CAD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

InterContinental Montreal – $$

For a stay that balances comfort, location, and value, the InterContinental Montreal is a great pick. The hotel sits right between Old Montreal and downtown, giving guests easy access to both, ideal for those planning to explore a lot of the city.

Rooms are modern and roomy, with big windows, comfy beds, and sleek bathrooms. We like the upscale touches throughout the property, from the elegant lobby to the peaceful indoor saltwater pool and well-equipped gym.

There’s also a chic French brasserie on site, perfect if you don’t feel like venturing out for dinner. Rates typically range from $250 to $450 CAD per night.

Check prices and book your stay here!

Maison Sainte-Thérèse By Maisons & co – $

Maison Sainte-Thérèse is one of the best-kept secrets in Old Montreal for budget-conscious travelers. Set in a beautifully restored historic building, it offers stylish studios and suites with kitchenettes, perfect for longer stays or those who like the option to self-cater.

The location strikes a nice balance, close to the Old Port and Bonsecours Market, but tucked just far enough off the main streets to offer a quieter stay. The rooms here are clean, modern, and surprisingly spacious for this price point. Expect to pay around $200 to $400 CAD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Downtown Montreal

Downtown Montreal is the city’s buzzing commercial heart, and one of the most convenient places to stay if you want easy access to shopping, transit, and major attractions.

It’s home to the Underground City, the Museum of Fine Arts, and some of Montreal’s best restaurants and retail, including along Sainte-Catherine Street and up into the Golden Square Mile. We loved how easy it was to grab a great meal, hop on the metro, or catch a show all within a few blocks.

This area is ideal for travelers who want to be centrally located and well-connected. You’re within walking distance of Mount Royal Park, Crescent Street’s nightlife, and multiple metro stations, which makes it a great jumping-off point for exploring the rest of the city. There’s also a wide range of hotels here, from luxury high-rises to solid-value chain stays.

It’s worth noting that while downtown is vibrant and practical, it lacks the historic charm of Old Montreal or the creative energy of the Plateau. It can also feel a bit businesslike in some spots, especially during the workweek. But if you want comfort, walkability, and convenience, it’s a great choice.

Pros

• Excellent metro access and central location
• Great for shopping, museums, and restaurants
• Wide range of hotels and amenities

Cons

• Lacks the historic charm of other neighborhoods
• Can feel a bit corporate or busy during the week

Hôtel Birks Montréal – $$$

This stunning hotel brings old-world elegance to the middle of the modern city. Set in the historic Birks jewelry building, Hôtel Birks Montréal features a grand lobby with marble floors, chandeliers, and soaring ceilings. The rooms are refined and comfortable, with deep soaking tubs and luxurious amenities.

One of the highlights is the on-site spa, which offers a full menu of treatments, plus a gorgeous terrace restaurant for lunch or late-night drinks. The location is also spot on, just steps from Phillips Square and some of the best shopping downtown. Expect to pay around $450 to $750 CAD per night.

Check all room categories and book your stay here!

Hôtel Le Germain Montréal – $$

Hôtel Le Germain Montréal strikes such a nice balance; it feels modern and upscale, but not over-the-top. It’s just a block from Peel Station and very close to the Museum of Fine Arts, so you’re right in the thick of things without the noise or crowds.

The rooms are bright and comfy, with plush bathrobes, espresso machines, and a smart, cozy layout that makes it easy to settle in. We like that breakfast is included and there’s even a gym if you want to stay active between all the pastries and poutine. Rates typically start from $300 to $500 CAD per night.

Check availability and reserve your stay here!

Hilton Garden Inn Montreal Centre-Ville – $

If you’re after a dependable place with good space and zero fuss, the Hilton Garden Inn Montreal Centre-Ville is a solid bet. Rooms are simple but spacious, with mini-fridges, blackout curtains, and everything you need to unwind after a busy day out and about.

There’s even an indoor pool and a rooftop terrace, which feels like a huge bonus for a budget-friendly downtown hotel. Plus, it’s an easy walk to McGill and a couple of metro lines, so getting around couldn’t be simpler. Prices usually range from $200 to $300 CAD per night.

Check prices and book your room here!

Plateau Mont-Royal 

Plateau Mont-Royal is full of color, character, and classic Montreal charm. With its mural-covered streets, spiral staircases, and leafy boulevards, this is the neighborhood where creativity thrives.

It’s one of the most local-feeling parts of the city, home to indie boutiques, secondhand bookstores, specialty coffee shops, and some of the best bagels in town (St-Viateur vs. Fairmount is a debate worth joining!).

This area is a great pick for travelers who want something a little more relaxed and residential, but still packed with personality. It’s popular with students, artists, and families alike, and there’s always something happening, from street festivals in summer to cozy cafés buzzing in winter.

You won’t find major tourist attractions right here, but Mount Royal Park is nearby, and the Plateau itself is a destination in its own right. Just keep in mind that the metro lines are a little more spread out in this part of the city, and some of the charm comes with a few stairs and older walk-ups.

Pros

• Full of character, street art, and great local spots
• Ideal for foodies, creatives, and longer stays
• Leafy, walkable streets with a local feel

Cons

• Fewer big-name sights or attractions nearby
• Not as well-connected by metro as downtown areas

Hôtel de l’ITHQ – $$$

For a luxury stay that feels rooted in the neighborhood, Hôtel de l’ITHQ is a refined and relaxed choice. It’s tucked right alongside leafy Saint-Denis Street, with rooms that are bright, spacious, and many that come with private balconies overlooking Parc Lafontaine.

The service is top-notch, and the on-site restaurant serves beautifully prepared Quebecois cuisine with a strong focus on local ingredients. You’ll also be just a short walk from Sherbrooke metro station, making it easy to explore the rest of the city. Expect to pay around $375 to $450 CAD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Sonder Apartments – $$

If you want the freedom of an apartment with the ease of a hotel, Sonder Le Guerin is a great pick. The units are clean, modern, and surprisingly roomy, with full kitchens, comfy beds, and even laundry facilities if you’re staying a while.

It’s tucked into a quiet side street just off Rue Saint-Denis, so you’re close to cafés, bakeries, and local hangouts, but away from the noise. We like that it gives you a lived-in feel without giving up comfort, perfect for couples, families, or remote workers. Rates usually run between $180 to $300 CAD per night.

Check availability and book your apartment stay here!

Auberge de La Fontaine – $

Auberge de La Fontaine feels more like a warm local guesthouse than a typical hotel, and that’s exactly what makes it so appealing. It’s right across from Parc Lafontaine, one of our favorite green spaces in the city, and gives you easy access to both the Plateau and nearby neighborhoods like Mile End.

Rooms are simple but charming, with hardwood floors, big windows, and a few thoughtful extras like mini-fridges and breakfast included. It’s a lovely spot for travelers who want something low-key, welcoming, and well-located. Expect to pay around $150–$300 CAD per night.

Check prices and book your room here!

Quartier des Spectacles/Latin Quarter

If you want to be in the heart of Montreal’s entertainment and nightlife scene, this is the spot. The Quartier des Spectacles and neighboring Latin Quarter are packed with theaters, concert halls, bars, and summer festivals, especially around Place des Arts, which transforms into a cultural hub during events like the International Jazz Festival or Just for Laughs.

It’s an energetic, student-friendly part of the city with plenty of restaurants, bookstores, and patios that spill out onto busy sidewalks.

You’ll find everything from indie cinemas and live music venues to international street food and all-night poutine stops. It’s not the quietest area in town, but it’s full of life and just a short walk from downtown and Old Montreal.

Because of the action, things can get a bit noisy at night, especially on weekends or during festival season, so if you’re a light sleeper, that’s something to consider. But if you’re looking to experience Montreal’s cultural pulse up close, this area is hard to beat.

Pros

• Amazing for nightlife, live shows, and summer festivals
• Great selection of food, bars, and entertainment
• Walkable to downtown and Old Montreal

Cons

• Can be loud or crowded, especially at night
• Feels more fast-paced than relaxing

HOTEL10 – $$$

Stylish, artsy, and perfectly placed, HOTEL10 is a boutique hotel that leans into Montreal’s creative side. The design is sleek and contemporary, with modern rooms featuring local art, plush beds, and glass-walled bathrooms. Some suites even include private terraces or deep soaking tubs.

It’s located right at the edge of the Latin Quarter, so you’re close to nightlife without being right in the thick of it. There’s also a buzzy bar downstairs and valet parking if you’re driving.

The vibe is youthful and energetic, ideal if you want a stylish base with easy access to the city’s cultural core. Expect to pay around $250 to $400 CAD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Fairfield Inn by Marriott Montreal Downtown – $$

Fairfield Inn is a gem if you want comfort, good value, and a central location without the frills. Rooms are fresh and modern with big beds, blackout curtains, and walk-in showers, perfect for unwinding after a busy day (or night!) in the city.

You’re steps from Berri-UQAM metro and minutes from all the action in both the Latin Quarter and the festival zones. We also like that breakfast is included, one less thing to think about when you’re heading out for a packed day of exploring. Prices typically range from $250 to $300 CAD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Best Western Plus Hotel Montreal – $

Best Western Plus Hotel Montreal is a reliable, budget-friendly option right on the edge of the action. This hotel keeps things simple, with clean, comfortable rooms, 24-hour front desk service, and a location that makes it easy to walk to just about everything.

You’ll be close to Sainte-Catherine Street, festival venues, and multiple metro stations, ideal if you’re planning late nights and want a short walk back. It’s a great base for travelers who want to be central without spending a fortune. Expect to pay around $150 to $250 CAD per night.

Check prices and book your stay here!

Golden Square Mile

Golden Square Mile is one of Montreal’s most elegant neighborhoods, a district that once housed the mansions of Canada’s wealthiest families and still carries that legacy of refinement today. Tucked at the base of Mount Royal and stretching along Sherbrooke Street, it’s packed with grand architecture, art museums, high-end boutiques, and a calm, sophisticated feel.

This area is ideal for travelers who enjoy art, shopping, and walkability with a touch of class. You’ll be close to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, McGill University, and beautiful green spaces like Dorchester Square and the edge of Mount Royal Park. There’s also a wide variety of upscale cafés, bars, and quiet corners to relax in.

We especially enjoyed slow mornings here—grabbing coffee on Sherbrooke Street, people-watching from a shaded bench, and strolling past historic facades that feel plucked from another era. It’s the kind of neighborhood that invites you to take your time.

It’s not the area for buzzing nightlife or a bohemian vibe, but it’s incredibly central and feels effortlessly polished. If you want to stay somewhere with a touch of luxury and a bit of breathing room, this is a great choice.

Pros

• Upscale, quiet, and close to museums and galleries
• Great for shopping and central for getting around
• Leafy streets and elegant architecture

Cons

• More refined than lively, not ideal for nightlife
• Can be pricey compared to other neighborhoods

The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal – $$$

The Ritz-Carlton is one of Montreal’s most iconic stays, and it absolutely delivers on service, comfort, and timeless elegance. The rooms are beautifully designed with marble bathrooms, deep soaking tubs, and ultra-comfy beds that make it hard to leave.

You’ll also find an indoor saltwater pool with a glass ceiling, a lush garden courtyard, and the Michelin-starred Maison Boulud restaurant right on site. It’s the kind of hotel that turns a stay into a true experience, perfect for special occasions or simply treating yourself. Expect to pay around $700 to $950 CAD per night.

Check availability and book your luxury Montreal stay here!

Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown – $$

If you’re after boutique luxury without the splurge, Vogue Hotel offers a seriously stylish stay. Recently renovated and now part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, this hotel blends glam design with warm touches like velvet seating, walk-in showers, and soft lighting throughout.

It’s just off Rue de la Montagne, close to shopping hotspots and the Museum of Fine Arts, so everything feels at your fingertips. We like that it’s upscale but still approachable, ideal if you want something special without going full Ritz. Rates usually fall between $400 to $600 CAD per night.

See available room options and book your stay here!

Best Western Plus Montreal Downtown – $

Best Western Plus may be budget-friendly, but its location is prime. You’re just a few blocks from the core of the Golden Square Mile and steps from Sainte-Catherine Street, which means great shopping, food, and metro access are all nearby.

Rooms are clean and straightforward, with solid Wi-Fi, coffee makers, and space to unwind after a day of sightseeing. It’s a smart pick for travelers who want comfort and convenience without breaking the bank. Expect to pay around $200–$250 CAD per night.

Check prices and book your stay at Best Western Plus here!

Related Read: Now that you’ve got your stay all picked out, check out this Montreal guide here on what to do when you get there. We’ve mapped out the top 10 things to see, eat, and experience—from must-visit neighborhoods to local favorites you don’t want to miss.

Griffintown

Griffintown is one of Montreal’s most exciting up-and-coming neighborhoods. What used to be a gritty industrial zone has been transformed into a stylish mix of glassy condos, creative workspaces, and buzzy restaurants. Think chic cafés, modern art galleries, and the Lachine Canal running right through it, perfect for long waterfront walks or bike rides.

In the summer, the canal path fills with locals out for jogs, dog walks, and picnic breaks—it’s one of the best spots to soak in Griffintown’s laid-back energy.

It’s a great base if you’re looking for something a little trendier and more modern. You’re still super close to downtown and just a short walk from Old Montreal, but the vibe here is quieter, newer, and more local. It’s especially popular with couples and returning visitors who want to explore a different side of the city.

Because it’s still developing, you won’t find as many historic landmarks or traditional tourist attractions here, and public transit is a bit less frequent than in other areas. But if you’re after cool restaurants, boutique stays, and a contemporary feel, Griffintown really delivers.

Pros

• Trendy and modern with great food and cafés
• Close to the Lachine Canal and Old Montreal
• Relaxed atmosphere with a creative vibe

Cons

• Fewer major attractions within the neighborhood
• Metro access isn’t as direct

WERFY Luxury Apart-Hotel – $$

WERFY Luxury Apart-Hotel nails that sweet spot between style and affordability. Each suite has a sleek, modern vibe with clean lines, kitchenettes, and enough space to feel like a home base, whether you’re in town for a weekend or a week.

It’s located on a quiet street but still walkable to all the best Griffintown cafés and just a short stroll from the canal. We like how low-key it feels—a great option if you want a more independent stay without giving up comfort. Rates usually range from $200 to $350 CAD per night.

Check availability and book your suite here!

Hôtel Alt Montréal – $

Hôtel Alt Montréal is bright, cheerful, and seriously well located. It’s right by the canal, with big windows and colorful interiors that make it feel fun and fresh, perfect if you want great value in a cool neighborhood.

Rooms are compact but smartly designed, with ultra-comfy beds, walk-in showers, and thoughtful touches like refillable water stations and USB outlets. Plus, you’re just a short walk to Old Montreal and several trendy restaurants. Expect to pay around $200 to $260 CAD per night.

Check prices and book your stay here!

Related Read: Need help planning your trip? This easy 3-day Montreal itinerary covers top sights, great food, and local favorites—perfect for first-timers or return visits.

Top Activities to do in Montreal, Quebec

With your Montreal stay sorted, it’s time to dive into everything this city has to offer, and trust us, there’s a lot. From food tours and bike rides to unforgettable day trips and scenic flights, these experiences gave us a deeper, more local look at the city. If any of these are still available during your visit, we highly recommend booking them ahead of time so you don’t miss out.

• Taste your way around Montreal – This small-group food tour took us beyond poutine and smoked meat, though we had those too! We explored bakeries, markets, and historic cafés while learning how Montreal’s French roots shaped its cuisine. Come hungry—the bites are generous and the guide’s stories make each one even better.

• Bike through local neighborhoods – For a fun and laid-back way to see the city like a local, this half-day bike tour was just the ticket. We cruised through Old Montreal, Plateau Mont-Royal, and hidden parks with plenty of stops and stories. The pace was easy, and the guide made everyone feel welcome.

• Cruise to Quebec City for the day – This full-day trip was the perfect way to see Quebec City without switching hotels. We wandered Old Quebec’s charming streets, visited Montmorency Falls, and capped it off with a relaxing St. Lawrence River cruise. It’s a full itinerary, but smooth, scenic, and so worth it.

• Explore Montreal by scooter – Zipping through Montreal on this retro scooter tour was an absolute blast. We covered way more ground than walking, with stops in the Old Port, Mile End, and Mount Royal. The scooters were easy to handle, and our guide kept it fun, informative, and full of surprises.

• See Montreal from the sky – This helicopter flight over Montreal gave us a whole new perspective. We soared above the Olympic Stadium, Mount Royal, and the Jacques-Cartier Bridge. The views were stunning, the ride smooth, and the commentary helped us connect the dots from the air. Definitely a trip highlight!

Thanks for reading!

After a day of museum hopping downtown, strolling the cobblestones of Old Montreal, or grabbing coffee on Sherbrooke Street, having a cozy place to land makes all the difference. Whether you’re staying in the heart of the action or somewhere quieter and more local, Montreal is a city that’s easy to explore—and even easier to love.

We hope this guide helped you find the perfect base for your stay. If you’re planning your itinerary, be sure to check out more of our Canada blogs here for local tips, neighborhood insights, and fun things to do in and around the city. Or here are a few we think you’ll love:

The 3 BEST Niagara Falls Tours from Montreal

Where to Stay in Quebec City, Quebec: 3 Best Areas and Hotels

10 Best Things to do in Quebec City, Quebec