The organizing team has come together to share our favourite Montréal spots, from well-known haunts to hidden gems scattered across the city. When I (Caroline) asked each team member to pick just three of their top places, it turned out to be quite the challenge—most of us couldn’t resist expanding our lists beyond the original limit!
Caroline’s Top 3
Espace Tricot
While there are many yarn shops in Montréal, Espace Tricot is my go-to when I need my yarn fix right away because it’s the closest one to my house. (Otherwise, I mostly buy online from indie dyers.) They also have some comfy chairs for partners, husbands, or children who are “unfortunate” enough to be dragged along. 😉 They once held an event where some surprisingly world-class amaretto cookies were served (according to Olivier, who ate many of them), so expect some delightful surprises every time you visit!
Cha Noir
I love the Cha Noir‘s selection of teas and the cozy, hushed atmosphere. I usually get a teapot of green or oolong tea and a slice of cheesecake.
Fun “cat-lady” fact: the name is a play on “black tea” and “black cat.” “Cha” means “tea” in Chinese, Japanese and many other languages, and is pronounced the same as “chat” (“cat”) in French (if you pronounce it with a soft “sh” sound).
Mont Royal
I could walk on Mount Royal every weekend and never get bored. I usually start at the corner of Côte-Sainte-Catherine and Mont-Royal Avenue and follow Chemin Olmsted to Beaver Lake (I refuse to take the stairs—Olmsted is nice and flat-ish, just right for my fitness level). I sit, read for a while, people-watch (mostly dog-watch, because dogs > people), or have a snack before heading back down Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges. Sometimes, I do it the other way around and include the cemetery in my walk.
Bonus: Café Chat l’Heureux
I almost never go because it’s not very close to my house, it’s always full, and I already have two cats at home that I can cuddle whenever I want. But as a proud cat-lady, I couldn’t leave it out. Café Chat l’Heureux is the first cat café in Montréal. They have eight resident cats and serve a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, as well as desserts and teas. The name is a play on the words “cat” and “being warmhearted.” The literal translation is “happy cat,” but when said aloud, it sounds like “warmhearted” in French.
Eric’s Top 3
Hiking on Mount Royal
Mount Royal is a true haven of peace in the heart of Montréal. Its trails offer an escape into nature, with panoramic views of the city, especially from the Kondiaronk lookout. It’s a perfect place to recharge your batteries, exercise or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the mountain.
Pub Le Sainte-Élisabeth
Hidden behind a discreet facade, Le Sainte-Élisabeth is a warm and friendly pub. Its huge terrace surrounded by green walls makes it an ideal place to relax with a beer with friends, especially in the summer. It’s a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city while being right in the city center.
Olive et Gourmando
This iconic café-bakery in Old Montreal is known for its delicious sandwiches, pastries and coffees. With a rustic and warm atmosphere, it is the perfect place for a casual brunch or a gourmet break in a busy day. I recommend the Cuban sandwich and the incredible brownies.
Bonus: Les Foufounes Électriques
A true alternative institution in Montreal, Les Foufounes Électriques is a legendary bar known for its relaxed atmosphere and underground spirit. With its theme nights, concerts and unique decor, it is a place where creativity and punk-rock culture meet.
Marie-Luce’s Top 3
Parc Jean-Drapeau
Nature in the middle of the city. Parc Jean-Drapeau is easy to access by metro—yellow line, Berri-UQAM station to Jean-Drapeau station—or by river shuttle. I love walking there, relaxing and admiring the view of Montréal, especially in the evening when the Jacques-Cartier bridge and the city light up; it’s magical!
Upstairs Jazz Bar
Upstairs is a cozy spot to grab a bite and enjoy a drink while soaking in some great jazz. If you’re lucky, you might catch a special guest performance.
L’affichiste
If you love vintage posters, L’affichiste is the perfect destination to discover original artwork from the past.
Olivier’s Top 3
Parc national des Îles-de-Boucherville
Although not on the island of Montréal itself, the Parc national des Îles-de-Boucherville is so beautiful and so peaceful that it deserves a spot on my list. The scenery is beautiful all year round, and the trails are usually very well-maintained. Lucky visitors might get to see some wild animals, such as beavers, deer, foxes and several species of wild birds. It is unfortunately not accessible by public transit. However, it is a great biking destination. Bring something to eat if you plan to stay the day.
Westmount’s Conservatory and Greenhouses
Located right next to the beautiful Westmount public library, inside the charming Westmount Park, the conservatory and greenhouses are a small oasis of calm and contemplation. The greenhouses are also a welcome rest spot in winter, given their high temperature. The Conservatory, built in 1927, was carefully restored in 2022. Note that visitors are expected to respect the privacy of everyone inside and keep the noise at a low level.
Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery
Open to everyone during the day, this cemetery is one of the most soothing places on the whole island of Montréal. Some might find the cemetery a strange place for a walk but it’s a great place to reflect on life and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life for a little while. Plus, if you’re lucky you might get to see rarer birds, a hare or a fox!
Extra Bonus! Marie-Luce’s Top 3 Ice Cream Parlours
KemCoba
At KemCoBa, they have unique flavours that you won’t find anywhere else.
Qwelli
I love Qwelli, they simply have the best smooth dark chocolate, roasted pistachio, and vegan options.
Meu Meu artisan glacier
Everything at Meu Meu is made from scratch using locally sourced milk and fresh ingredients, with no food colouring in sight.
Extra Bonus! Olivier’s Top 4 Doughnut Shops
Donuts! Although not as fancy as croissants, pastries or macarons, I find that a good donut is (almost) always a welcome treat. There are several good locations for donuts in Montréal, these are some of my favourites:
