Montreal is an enchanting city, especially in the fall, when the air is crisp and the leaves turn a stunning array of colours. On this beautiful day, I had the pleasure of exploring the city with a local friend, who showed me around by car, giving me a Montrealer’s perspective. We drove through some of the city’s most captivating neighbourhoods, from the historic streets of Old Montreal to the leafy enclaves of Mount Royal. Each area had its unique charm, and my friend made sure I got to experience the best of them.
Morning Brunch at Duc De Lorraine
To kick off our adventure, we stopped for brunch at Duc De Lorraine. This iconic eatery, located in the heart of Montreal, has been serving its patrons since 1952. As soon as we walked in, I could feel the nostalgic ambiance. Sitting in this retro café, where history and tradition meet the contemporary flavours of Montreal’s culinary scene, set the tone for a day of discovery. The vibe and array of pastries made it clear why this spot remains a favourite among locals.
Westmount – The Epitome of Elegance
After brunch, we drove to Westmount, a neighbourhood my friend described as the epitome of elegance and historical charm. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Royal, Westmount is known for its grand Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and perfectly manicured gardens. As we drove up the mount, passing the beautiful homes, I couldn’t help but be reminded of the Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles. It was fascinating to learn that Westmount was once an independent city before being merged into Montreal. We stopped at the Westmount lookout, a hidden gem within Westmount Summit Park. The view of the downtown Montreal skyline framed by the greenery of Mount Royal was breathtaking. Standing there, I felt a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find in an urban setting. My friend noted that this was a notorious make-out spot back in the day!
Mount Royal – The Heart of Montreal
Our next destination was Mount Royal, the city’s crown jewel. My friend expertly navigated the scenic drive up the mountain, lined with lush, towering trees. I can only imagine how breathtaking it will be in the fall when the vibrant foliage blankets the landscape. One of the highlights of our trip was stopping at Belvédère Camillien-Houde, an iconic viewpoint on the eastern side of Mount Royal. My friend mentioned that it’s named after a former mayor of Montreal and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. And yes, this lookout point as well has quite the reputation as a classic make-out spot!
The expansive view of Montreal’s downtown, the St. Lawrence River, and beyond stretched out before us, showcasing the city’s blend of natural beauty and urban vibrancy. We also visited Saint Joseph’s Oratory, another of Mount Royal’s iconic landmarks.
This grand basilica, founded by Saint Brother André, is the largest church in Canada and has become a place of pilgrimage for many seeking spiritual peace. As we walked up the winding path to the entrance, the view of the city was simply awe-inspiring.
Outremont – A Taste of European Charm
Next, we ventured into Outremont, a neighbourhood that my friend described as having a distinct European flair. The wide boulevards lined with stately homes, chic boutiques, and quaint cafes gave it a sophisticated atmosphere. Outremont is predominantly French-speaking, contributing to its European charm. My friend pointed out the area’s significant Orthodox Jewish community, adding to its unique cultural blend. As we drove through the peaceful, tree-lined streets, I truly felt as though we had been transported to a quaint European town.
Côte-des-Neiges – A Melting Pot of Cultures
Our drive continued through Côte-des-Neiges, where my friend showed me one of the city’s most multicultural neighbourhoods. It is home to residents from around the world and known for its educational institutions, including the University of Montreal. This part of the city is a melting pot of cultures, and we passed by restaurants and shops offering a variety of international cuisines and goods. The vibrant diversity here is a testament to Montreal’s cosmopolitan nature. My friend shared stories of how Côte-des-Neiges has always been a welcoming place for people from different backgrounds.
Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal – A Landmark of History and Grandeur
No exploration of Montreal would be complete without a visit to Old Montreal, and so, as the day neared its end, we made our way there. My friend took me to the Notre-Dame Basilica, a magnificent church built in the Gothic Revival style. Its breathtaking interior, featuring intricate woodwork, vibrant stained-glass windows, and an impressive organ, left me in awe. My friend reminded me that this is the very church where Celine Dion got married in 1994.
Evening in Old Montreal – Stepping Back in Time
As dusk fell, we wandered the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, soaking in its unmistakable European charm. The area dates back to the 17th century, making it one of the oldest urban areas in North America. We explored Place Jacques-Cartier, a lively square filled with street performers and quaint terraces. To cap off our day, we had dinner at the rooftop of the William Gray Hotel.
The view of the port from up here was nothing short of spectacular. My friend chose this spot to show me how Old Montreal perfectly embodies a blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. Watching the sunset over the St. Lawrence River was the ideal way to end this memorable day.
Montreal is a city of contrasts—historic yet modern, European yet possessing its own character. With my friend as a guide, I got to experience the city through the eyes of a Montrealer. Each area we explored offered its own slice of Montreal’s multifaceted identity. From the elegance of Westmount to the bustling diversity of Côte-des-Neiges and the timeless allure of Old Montreal, I felt as though I had travelled through different worlds, all within a single city.
I’m here for another full day and have St Viateur bagels and Schwartz’s Deli on my mind!
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. Happy responsible travels!