What to do on a long weekend in Montreal
Intent: This 2026 guide provides independent travellers and photographers with a logistical and cultural roadmap of Montreal, a UNESCO City of Design. It prioritizes heritage architecture, immersive art, and hidden “speakeasy” culture, verified through first-hand experience and professional storytelling.
Montreal isn’t just about hockey and poutine (though we’re not knocking either); this city pulses with a deep cultural richness that makes it stand out. Walking its streets, we were immersed in a blend of global influences—culinary gems from every corner of the world, independent shops showcasing diverse artwork, and locals whose presence alone tells the story of a beautifully multicultural city. Diversity isn’t just present here—it thrives. It works. And honestly, it should be the model everywhere.
📍 Logistical Quick-Start: If you’re planning Montreal as a getaway, this itinerary covers what to see, what to find, and where to eat—all within a 5-km radius of our base. For a full geographic breakdown, check out my logistics Map of Montreal.
Train Travel Just Made Sense
We chose to take the train into Montreal—and here’s why: VIA Rail is budget-friendly (around $80 per person), there is no stress over parking or gas, and our car got a break. We have zero regrets. It set the tone for a slower, more thoughtful weekend—one where the journey mattered just as much as the destination.
***Bonus content: Here is your summer 2025 calendar of events with Tourism Montreal
A single-day itinerary? Montreal and Chinatown Itinerary.
The Base: Hotel Honeyrose – Art Deco Style in the Quartier des Spectacles
Tucked in the heart of Montreal’s vibrant cultural district at 355 de Maisonneuve Blvd West, Hotel Honeyrose is perfectly positioned for travellers looking to stay close to the city’s main convention centres, festivals, and artistic energy.
This stylish boutique hotel makes an impression the moment you walk in—its spacious lobby and bar are a dreamy mix of pastel tones, rich textures, and vintage-inspired designs. Our room was just as thoughtfully styled, offering comfort wrapped in elegance. Every detail felt intentional, capturing the brand’s identity flawlessly.
Cost: Our cost was $315 per night (prices adjust upon booking).
Day 1 – Old Montreal & Chinatown
Coffee in hand, and we’re off. It’s a beautiful day, so we’ve committed to walking everywhere—and trust me, Montreal rewards those who wander.
Tickets: Regular $27.50 | VIP $57.00 | Family $80.00.
Lunch: Qing Hua Dumplings ($15.00+): These aren’t your average dumplings. We’re talking golden-fried pockets of joy—13 per order, perfectly crisp on the outside, juicy and flavourful on the inside.
The Old Port: From Chinatown, we strolled down to the Old Port of Montreal. Cobblestone streets, historic buildings, street performers, and that riverside breeze—this part of the city has a timeless charm.
Art Boutiques: We wandered through the cobblestone streets, made a quick stop at the Notre Dame Basilica, and popped into art boutiques that pulled us in with bold colours and local flair. We didn’t leave empty-handed—we collected some creativity to take home.
The Pitstop: To cool off and regroup, we grabbed a drink at St-Paul Pub—a cozy stop with great people-watching.
La Grande Roue de Montréal: This massive observation wheel offers a 360° view of the city. From the top, we spotted historic rooftops, the curves of the St. Lawrence River, and mountain peaks up to 28 km away.
From Cobblestones to Sky-High Views: Exploring Old Montreal
After lunch, we wandered through Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets, a quick stop at the Notre Dame Basilica, popping into art boutiques that pulled us in with bold colours, local flair, and unique finds. We didn’t leave empty-handed—some art made its way home with us because when in Montreal, you collect creativity.
To cool off and regroup, we grabbed a drink at St-Paul Pub—a cozy stop with great people-watching and even better vibes.
Refreshed and recharged, we reached one of the city’s standout attractions: La Grande Roue de Montréal. This massive observation wheel offers a 360° view of the city that hits differently when you’re up there. From the top, we spotted historic rooftops, the curves of the St. Lawrence River, and, on a clear day like ours, mountain peaks up to 28 km away. The kind of view reminds you just how layered and beautiful this city is.
Regular ticket is $27.50, VIP is $57.00, Family 2 adults and 2 -17 years old $80.00
Evening: Dining Without the White Gloves
We headed to Vieux-Port Steakhouse for cocktails, oysters, and dinner. The service was outstanding—no pretentiousness, just genuine people who clearly loved what they did. The food was spot-on and well worth the hype. (I actually forgot to take photos because the experience was that engaging!).
Day 2 – Immersive Art & Sensory Nature at the Biodôme
Morning Coffee: We kicked off the day with early morning coffee from Commodore Café, tucked into the Hotel Honeyrose lobby. Calm energy and smooth coffee.
OASIS Immersion (Root for Nature): Located in The Gallery of the Palais, this blend of technology, storytelling, and emotion is designed to reconnect us with the planet.
Note: If you live with ADHD or sensory sensitivities, this visuals-heavy experience might be intense. Consider letting staff know beforehand.
Single ticket: $35.42.
Biodôme de Montréal: We headed here next for some wild encounters.
Pro Tip: There is a scheduled entry system. When you buy your tickets, select an exact entry time to avoid the hold-up.
We explored the tropical section (filled with parrots) and visited the puffins and penguins. It works for everyone—kids, adults, or wildlife lovers.
Metro: Green Line ($3.25) | Single tickets: $23.75.
Evening: Korean Cravings & Velvet Vibes
Dinner: Atti BYOB Korean Restaurant: We ordered the bulgogi beef platter, and the portion size blew past most Korean spots I’ve been to. It was tender, fresh, and perfectly cooked. The average check is $35.00
Hidden Beats & Velvet Vibes in Griffintown
Tucked 2.6 km from downtown, we followed a side alleyway and a glowing green light. Inside, we found a secret world with a DJ spinning vinyl and old-school McIntosh amplifiers.
Cocktails: $20.00 on average.Salon Badin.
“Badin” means playful in French, and “afterwards” in Arabic—both hit the mark. It’s the perfect place for a cocktail “after” anything. They host live jazz every Wednesday after 9 p.m.
Why I Love Montreal
Montreal has always held a special place in my creative journey. Every visit feels like walking through a living gallery—a city that thrives on art, culture, and connection. I love how Montreal constantly reinvents itself while holding tight to its European soul.
The mix of languages, flavours, and architecture is inspiring; it’s where old stone streets meet modern rhythm. What strikes me most is how naturally diversity and creativity coexist here—not as trends, but as the heartbeat of the city. Whether it’s sipping coffee in a hidden café, capturing golden light on the cobblestones, or hearing jazz spill out of a late-night bar in Griffintown, Montreal never fails to remind me why I love exploring Canada one story at a time.
Recap: A Weekend Well Spent
Day 1 was all about embracing the old-world charm of Old Montreal—starting with juicy dumplings in Chinatown, strolling along cobblestone streets, and soaking up sky-high views from La Grande Roue.
Day 2 delivered full-on sensory experiences—from morning coffee at Commodore Café to the immersive Root for Nature exhibit, followed by penguins at the Biodôme and vinyl vibes at Salon Badin.
Day 3 Suggestions: Culture, Views & French Farewell
If you are staying an extra day, it is all about slowing down and ending on a classic note:
- Museum Hop: Explore Montreal’s iconic spots—this city doesn’t just tell stories, it exhibits them.
- Mount Royal Lookout: For one last panoramic view—camera in hand. Breathe in and enjoy the view (complimentary).
- Chez Alexandre: Cap it off at this French brasserie. Think steak frites, chilled wine, and Parisian soul.
- Dinner: ~$100 per person.
Q & A About Montreal
Montreal shines in every season. Spring and summer (May–September) are perfect for festivals and patios. Fall brings golden leaves, while winter transforms the city into a snowy wonderland of lights and skating.
Two to three full days is ideal to explore the main districts—from Old Montreal and Chinatown to Griffintown and the Plateau.
Start with poutine, of course, but don’t stop there. Try bagels from St-Viateur, smoked meat from Schwartz’s, and oysters or seafood in Old Montreal. Pair it all with local craft beer or cocktails at one of the city’s stylish speakeasies.
2026 Update: While city lights usually interfere, during strong solar cycles, you can head to the summit of Mount Royal or drive 30 minutes north of the city for a chance to see the Aurora.
About the Author
Roland Bast is a Canadian travel photographer and visual storyteller based in Ottawa. A member of TMAC (Travel Media Association of Canada), he specializes in capturing the emotion, culture, and beauty of Canadian destinations through authentic storytelling and original photography.
Written and photographed by Roland Bast.
Exploring Quebec’s Hidden Gems
Old Montreal & Chinatown – A visual journey through the historic cobblestones and the vibrant culinary heart of the city.
Hidden Gems & Griffintown Nights – Beyond the tourist path—exploring the industrial-chic transformation and nightlife of Griffintown.
Logistics of the Greater Montreal area – The essential companion to this guide, detailing transit, tolls, and parking for the “Hub and Spoke” traveller.
Le Germain Hotel & Spa Sustainability and Luxury: Where sustainability meets luxury—a firsthand look at the boutique experience in Bay St-Paul.
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