Old Montreal

Old Montreal, known as Vieux-Montréal in French, is a historic district located within the municipality of Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

The neighborhood, which includes the Old Port of Montreal, is bounded by McGill Street to the west, Ruelle des Fortifications to the north, rue Saint-André to the east, and the Saint Lawrence River to the south.

In recent years, the district has expanded to incorporate the Rue des Soeurs Grises to the west, Saint Antoine Street to the north, and Saint Hubert Street to the east.

The district showcases the city's indigenous and colonial history through a variety of historical sites dating back to the 17th century. Visitors can also enjoy the area's contemporary cultural offerings, including art, food, and wellness.

With markets, museums, architectural marvels, and other attractions, Old Montreal's cobblestone streets offer endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment. Some notable landmarks that you should visit when in Old Montreal include Notre-Dame Basilica, Place d’Armes, Montreal City Hall, Bonsecours Market, Saint-Paul Street (Rue Saint-Paul), Champ de Mars, Château Ramezay, Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, and Old Port of Montreal (Vieux-Port!)

Montréal, the biggest city in the Québec province and the most French-influenced region of North America, is infused with a contagious energy. Despite its modernity, the city boasts an impressively preserved historic district, characterized by whimsical skyscrapers, sprawling artists' lofts, fashionable boutiques, and cozy cafes.

But if you're short on time and have only one day to spend in Montréal, immerse yourself in the charming cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montréal (Old Montréal), the birthplace of the city on Pointe-à-Callière by the St. Lawrence River.

Here, the neighborhood's captivating architectural heritage has been lovingly preserved, with restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings repurposed into trendy shops, boutique hotels, galleries, cafes, bars, and apartments.

At the junction of Notre-Dame and St-Sulpice streets in Vieux-Montréal, a charming little square sees a lot of pedestrian activity – Place d’Armes. In the center of the square stands a statue honoring the originator of the city, Paul de Chomedey, Sieur de Maisonneuve.

Make sure to see this famous plaza when you tour Old Montreal along with a stroll through the must-visit streets: Rue Notre-Dame and Rue Saint-Paul! 

South of Vieux-Montréal lies the picturesque Vieux-Port (Old Port), a delightful waterfront passage where you can take a leisurely stroll, cycle, or enjoy a picnic. Sitting in the Old Port area is a Ferris wheel you must not miss! La Grande Roue de Montréal, the tallest observation wheel in Canada, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city throughout the year. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the 42 cabins feature ultra-clear tempered glass windows and a temperature control system for comfort. 

Located at the base of the wheel, the Bistro de La Grande Roue and the Café de La Grande Roue offer visitors a variety of delicious local cuisine, including grilled sandwiches, salads, and pastries. The terraces of both establishments provide stunning views of the observation wheel. 

The neighborhood extends north to rue St-Antoine, once dubbed the "Wall Street" of Québec. Take in the oldest and most historic part of the city, where the old-world charm and contemporary vibrancy of Montréal come together in perfect harmony!