Step into a slice of Europe in North America with this perfectly planned one-day itinerary for Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). From 17th-century cobblestone streets to modern gourmet delights, here’s how to experience the best of this historic district in just 24 hours—like a savvy traveler, not a rushed tourist.
Morning: History & Architecture
9:00 AM – Notre-Dame Basilica
📍 110 Notre-Dame St W
⏰ Open 9AM-4PM (Till 5PM Sat) | 💰 $15 CAD
- Pro Tip
- Arrive at opening to photograph the dazzling blue-hued Sanctuary without crowds.
- Don’t miss the AURA light show (check official schedule for times).
10:30 AM – Pointe-à-Callière Museum
📍 350 Place Royale
⏰ 10AM-5PM | 💰 $24 CAD
- Walk through actual 17th-century archaeological ruins beneath the museum.
- The rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the Old Port.
Coffee Break: Crew Collective & Café
📍 360 St-Jacques St
- A stunning former 1920s bank with marble floors and vintage chandeliers. Try their maple latte.
Lunch: Quintessential Montréal Flavors
12:30 PM – Olive et Gourmando
📍 351 St-Paul St W
⏰ 8AM-5PM (Closed Mon-Tue)
- Must-order
- Prosciutto & Fig Jam Sandwich on house sourdough.
- Alternative: Le Petit Dep (📍 179 St-Paul St) for quick smoked-meat poutine.
Afternoon: Strolling & Hidden Gems
2:00 PM – Place Jacques-Cartier
- Watch street performers, then climb the staircase at the north end for a photo-worthy cityscape.
- Secret Spot: Nearby Rue de la Commune has lesser-known harbor views.
3:30 PM – Rue Saint-Paul Boutiques
- Local Favorite
- Kanuk (📍 485 St-Paul St) for iconic Montréal-made winter coats.
- Photo Op
- The “Les Royales” mural (📍 St-Paul & St-Sulpice).
Evening: Dinner with Ambiance
6:30 PM – Holder
📍 407 McGill St
⏰ 11:30AM-11PM
- Order
- Duck confit or the moules-frites (mussels with fries). Request a terrace seat.
- Budget Pick
- Modavie (📍 1 St-Paul St W) for live jazz and $35 CAD prix-fixe.
8:30 PM – Montreal Ferris Wheel (La Grande Roue) Night Ride
📍 362 Rue de la Commune E
⏰ Open until 11PM (Midnight Fri-Sat) | 💰 $26.50 CAD
- 15-minute ride in climate-controlled gondolas with 360° night views of:
✨ Illuminated Notre-Dame Basilica
✨ Sparkling Old Port skyline
✨ St. Lawrence River lights - Pro Tip: Book online to skip queues + time your ride for sunset-to-night transition.
(Winter Bonus: Heated cabins & festive lights Dec-Mar!)
📸 Insta-Worthy Moments
- The basilica’s vibrant stained glass at noon.
- Crew Café’s grand staircase (ask for the best angle).
- Sunset hues over Place Jacques-Cartier.
This Old Montreal itinerary balances iconic sights with local secrets—all walkable in a day. Save it, share it, and savor la vie montréalaise!
Want more? Check our “Hidden Cafés in Old Montreal” guide next!