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How to Spend 48 Hours in Montreal

Montreal is a stunning destination that offers visitors a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The city is the largest in Quebec, Canada, and has a lot to offer to those who are looking for a short trip. In this guide, we'll help you plan a perfect 48-hour itinerary that will allow you to make the most of your time in Montreal.

Author: Camp Canada
11 May 09:01
First of all, here are some tips to help you travel around Montreal like a pro:
  • Use Public Transportation: Montreal has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains, that can take you to most of the city's main attractions. The STM is the primary public transportation system in Montreal, and you can purchase a day pass or a weekly pass to save money on transportation.

  • Rent a Bike: Montreal is a bike-friendly city, with many bike lanes and scenic routes. You can rent a bike and explore the city's many neighbourhoods at your own pace. Some popular bike rental services include Bixi, Ça Roule, and Fitz & Follwell.

  • Walk: Montreal is a walkable city, and walking is a great way to explore the city's many neighbourhoods. Many of Montreal's attractions are located within walking distance of each other, such as Old Montreal, the Plateau, and the Mile End.

As well as visiting Montreal, if you want to find out more about the beautiful province of Quebec and the other destinations you can visit, like Quebec City then check out our other blogs!

Montreal Botanical Garden
Day 1
Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Old Montreal, which is the historic district of Montreal. The Old Montreal is home to some of the city's oldest buildings, such as the Notre-Dame Basilica and the Bonsecours Market. You can take a guided tour of the Basilica and learn about its history and architecture. You can also explore the narrow streets and cobblestone alleys of the Old Montreal and discover its unique charm.

After you've explored the Old Montreal, you can visit the Pointe-à-Callière Museum, which is dedicated to the history and archaeology of Montreal. The museum has a vast collection of artefacts and exhibits that will give you a deeper understanding of the city's past.

Afternoon

After your visit to the Old Montreal and the Pointe-à-Callière Museum, head to the Mount Royal Park, which is a large park in the heart of Montreal. The park offers many walking trails, picnic areas, and lookout points that offer stunning views of the city. You can take a leisurely stroll through the park and enjoy the scenic beauty. If you're visiting in the winter, you can also go ice skating on the Beaver Lake, which is a popular activity among locals and tourists alike.

You can also visit the Montreal Botanical Garden, which is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world. The garden has a vast collection of plants and flowers from around the world, and you can spend a few hours exploring the different gardens and exhibits.

Evening

In the evening, head to the Plateau Mont-Royal, which is a trendy neighborhood in Montreal. This neighborhood is full of restaurants, bars, and cafes. You can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in the area, or catch a show at the Rialto Theater. The Rialto Theater is a historic theater that hosts a variety of events, including theater, dance, and music performances. One of the must-visit places in the Plateau Mont-Royal is the Schwartz's Deli, which is famous for its smoked meat sandwiches. The deli has a laid-back atmosphere and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts building in Montreal
Day 2
Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, which is one of the largest art museums in Canada. The museum has a vast collection of Canadian and international art, and you can spend a few hours exploring the exhibits. One of the highlights of the museum is the Quebec and Canadian Art exhibit, which showcases the works of Quebec and Canadian artists.

After your visit to the museum, you can visit the Atwater Market, which is a large market in Montreal. The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. You can also find many cafes and restaurants in the market that offer delicious meals. The Atwater Market is a great place to experience the local food culture of Montreal.

Afternoon

After your visit to the Atwater Market, head to The Lachine Canal, which is a historic canal in Montreal. You can take a bike ride or a boat tour and explore the different neighborhoods that are located along the canal. The Lachine Canal is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Montreal.

Evening

In the evening, head to the Quartier des Spectacles, which is a cultural district in Montreal. This neighborhood is home to many theaters, concert halls, and performance spaces. You can catch a show at the Place des Arts, which is a performing arts venue that hosts a variety of events, including theater, dance, and music performances. The Quartier des Spectacles is a lively neighborhood that offers a variety of cultural experiences.

Montreal is a beautiful city that's full of surprises and has something for everyone. If you're planning a short trip to Montreal, make sure to include these top attractions in your itinerary. You can also explore other neighborhoods like the Mile End, the Latin Quarter, and the Griffintown, which are full of unique experiences. Montreal is a city that's worth visiting, and 48 hours is enough to get a taste of its charm. Book your trip now and get ready to explore the beautiful city of Montreal.

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