Discover the new Old Montréal
Old Montréal remains a vibrant heart of the city with many new features that your attendees will love.
Old Montréal is a gem of classical architecture and Old World charm along the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Co-founded by Paul Chomedey de Maisonneuve and Jeanne Mance in 1642 at the exact spot where today’s Pointe-à-Callière archaeology and history museum resides, Montréal is laden with historical significance — but it’s also bursting with innovation. Old Montréal remains a vibrant heart of the city with many new features that both you and your attendees will love.
Attractions central
Old Montréal has serious camera appeal: after topping a 2023 ranking of Canada’s 50 most Instagrammed tourist destinations, a newer study of more than 640 Canadian landmarks named it Québec’s most Instagrammable spot and seventh in Canada overall. With renowned attractions such as the Notre-Dame Basilica (complete with Moment Factory’s AURA Experience), the Montréal convention centre, aka Palais des congrès de Montréal, Place Jacques-Cartier, the Clock Tower and the Grande Roue de Montréal all within the neighbourhood, it’s no wonder it invites shutterbugs!
Historical venues, elevated
The PHI’s varied schedule of forward-looking conferences, live performances and installations has claimed a reputation as one of Montréal’s most inspiring venues.
Pointe-à-Callière’s 11 multifunctional rooms include the breathtaking views of the COGECO 360° Space overlooking the old city, and the stately Mariners House. Built to showcase the earliest foundations of Montréal, this museum’s spaces showcase a perfect union between history and high tech.
Those looking for the rush of water below their feet without having to step into a boat need look no further than the event spaces of the Montréal Science Centre. Spectacular views of Old Montréal and the St. Lawrence River are sure to keep your attendees energized.
And the highest-tech of all, the Grand Quay of the Port of Montréal is an event venue that combines both the rich heritage of the port with expansive naturally-lit spaces and one of the coolest views of the city.
Fresh cuisine in the old city
Fine dining has always been an important part of Old Montréal’s DNA and these spots have drawn crowds to the cobblestone streets. Vegetarian hot spot LOV, the handsome brasserie Monarque and beloved café Olive et Gourmando are musts among a long list of mouth-watering options. Some of the other standouts are Vieux-Port Steakhouse, Pincette, Jacopo, Taverne Gaspar, Maggie Oakes, Modavie, Méchant Bœuf, Kyo Bar Japonais, Brasserie 701 and Bevo Bar + Pizzéria.
Cafés and bars that amaze
From the breathtaking Crew Collective + Café co-working space to Olimpico at the William Gray Hotel, Old Montréal has café choices for every taste and mood. Here are just 10 of our favourites within 10 minutes of the Palais de congrès de Montréal.
When it’s past coffee hours and time for a cocktail, Old Montréal’s bar scene also holds a wealth of unforgettable options. Keep things trendy yet low-key at Philémon Bar, sample the cool cocktails at Flyjin, travel back to the roaring ‘20s at Bord’Elle and seek out the hidden Coldroom on Saint-Paul Street. Jiao Dim Sum Bar on Notre-Dame Street and Clandestino mezcal and tequila bar on Saint-François-Xavier show no signs of the old city slowing down any time soon.
A hotel hotspot
Old Montréal’s hotel scene is both rich and forever changing. Hôtel William Gray is a jewel in the crown of the Antonopoulos Group, whose portfolio of boutique hotels in the historic district also includes the Lofts du Vieux-Port, Hôtel Place d’Armes, Le Petit Hôtel, Hôtel Nelligan and Auberge du Vieux-Port.
Other options include the all-suite Hôtel Saint-Sulpice next to the Notre-Dame Basilica, the futuristic Humaniti Hotel Montréal, the striking Hyatt Centric, the magnificent Gaultt Hotel and the elegant Hôtel St-Paul, all offering the most modern comforts in distinctly historical settings. And of course, just steps from the high-tech environment of the Palais des congrès de Montréal convention centre, the InterContinental, the Westin and Embassy Suites by Hilton Montréal let conference delegates go seamlessly from meetings with peers to meetings with the past in Old Montréal.
It’s safe to say the only thing that stays constant in Old Montréal is its ability to continually evolve.