One Day in Montreal – Must-See Attractions for A Short Visit
No fluff, just the essentials: here’s your one-day Montreal game plan with tips to save time and money.
Disclosure: Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. Read our full disclosure.
Are you planning to spend one day in Montreal? Time is of the essence, so let's cut to the chase: this guide will zero in on what you ABSOLUTELY must see to experience the best of Montreal in just 24 hours.
Plus, I'll share insider tips on how to save money, commute efficiently, and indulge in fantastic food along the way.
Tips to save time and money
What to see in Montreal in one day
When I last went to Montreal, I was there for just 24 hours. I decided to focus on a handful of must-see sites or landmarks to make the most of my limited time. Based on my experience, I recommend you check out:
Old Montreal
Downtown Montreal
Old Port of Montreal
Underground City
Mont-Royal Lookout
Quartier des spectacles
My Montreal trip was centered around those six areas. It was a lot so I found I had to be quite strategic and efficient with my time. Because it wasn't my first time there (I lived in Montreal from 2010 – 2016), I knew how to plan an itinerary that wouldn't have me zig-zag around town.
Itinerary Tip
Here's my first itinerary tip: visit the Old Montreal and the Old Port in the same half day, as they are right next to each other. Similarly, Downtown and Quartier des spectacles are side-by-side and best visited together.
Montreal 1 Day Itinerary
Old Montreal
I started my Montreal visit in Old Montreal. Rue St-Amable was my favourite street (picture below), but I also liked Rue St-Vincent and Rue Saint Paul.
Next, I went to the Notre Dame Basilica for a 20-minute long tour where I learned more about its history. I found the neo-Gothic architecture very impressive. Around Christmas time, they have a light show worth buying tickets for.
Grab a hearty and delicious Canadian-style brunch at La Cartet down Rue McGill. In the summertime, the sidewalk patio seating is great for people-watching. Alternatively, grad lunch at one of the many restaurants of Place Jacques-Cartier.
Swing by Marche Bon Secours to browse local artisanal and souvenir shops.
Notre Dame de Bon Secours Chapel is another interesting archaeological find. Inside this church you’ll find model ships, a crypt preserved from the 18th century, a museum, and a tower with panoramic views of the historic Old Port.
Old Montreal Guided Tour
Short on time but want to learn about Montreal’s history, architecture and culture? Here is a reasonably priced two-hour Walking Tour of Old Montreal. The tour guides are known to also pass on insider food and drink recommendations.
Old Port of Montreal
Right next to the Old Montreal is the Old Port of Montreal. Stroll along the Saint Lawrence River, and take in views of the La Grande Roue de Montreal Ferris wheel (open all year-round).
Mount Royal Lookout and Plateau Mont-Royal
Spend your afternoon in Plateau Mont-Royal. This quaint neighbourhood is iconic for its local feel, trendy shops, and mouthwatering bagels. Everyone has a different take on where to find the best bagel here, but some tried and true shops are St-Viator Bagel & Café and Fairmount Bagel. If you prefer a more formal lunch, drop by Les Deux Gamins French bistro.
Make your way to Mont-Royal Park. Amble the paths surrounded by lush greenery and shady trees. Stop for a while by Beaver Lake to watch the canoers float by, then trek to the viewing platform at the summit of the park. Bask in the stunning views of Montreal island.
Related: If you want to know what else you'd get to see on a longer trip, check out this 2 days Montreal itinerary and 3 days in Montreal itinerary.
Downtown and Quartier des Spectacles
After dinner, sports fans can attend a Canadiens NHL hockey game at the Bell Center to root for the home team. Shopaholics can shop ‘til they drop at Réso Underground City, a series of underground tunnels lined with boutique bliss (closes at 6pm most days).
Culture vultures, beeline for Rue Saint Catherine and Quartier des Spectacles. Explore the lively streets of the city center, surrounded by historic architecture. Browse the outdoor sculptures, and art installments, around Place de Arts. Stop by one of the venues for an orchestra or ballet performance if you have time before saying, “Au revoir!” to Montreal.
Dinner in Montreal
With one day in Montreal, you can’t miss dinner at Joe Beef, just a few minutes drive from downtown. Enjoy French and Canadian dishes ranging from delicious meat to fresh seafood, pasta, duck, desserts, craft cocktails, and more. Keep in mind it’s closed on Monday and Sunday, and you’ll need a reservation.
Guided Tours in Montreal
Full Day Tour: Downtown, Old Montreal, Mont-Royal, etc.
If you’d prefer to spend your one day in Montreal being guided by a local expert, check out this Full Day Guided City Tour. This is for those who don’t mind a busy schedule, as this seven-hour tour is packed to the brim with fun.
The tour drives by exciting neighbourhoods, so you can get the lay of the land and learn about what makes Montreal so special. There are also stops in Mount Royal Park, Jean-Talon Market and The Underground City. With all the knowledge you’ll gain on this tour, you’ll be a Montreal expert by the end!
Popular Montreal Tours
Best Commute Options in Montreal
Getting around Montreal is convenient and simple thanks to public transportation, ride-share apps, and general walkability. Within each neighbourhood, you’ll likely be happy gallivanting around on foot in the warmer seasons. But if a snow storm strikes, the sidewalks become more like ice rinks for a day or two, until the sidewalk plow fixes it all.
With that in mind, here are the best ways to travel in Montreal regardless of the season.
Transport on a Budget
When visiting Montreal in one day, buy the “24 hours all modes A ticket“, which is a 24-hour unlimited metro/bus pass for $11. It's even valid for the 747 express bus to and from the Montreal airport.
Metro (included in Montreal 24 hours Travel Pass)
The cheapest way to commute all around Montreal in 24 hours is by public transport. The four underground metro lines in Montreal are a great way to navigate the city. The 24 hour travel pass can be purchased at vending machines and from official agents in all metro stations.
Bus (included in Montreal 24 hours Travel Pass)
The extensive Montreal bus system spans the city and is one of the best ways to get you close to your destination. You will need to buy the 24 hours Travel Pass before you get on the bus. This site allows you to search the nearest vendor.
Uber
Good old, reliable Uber. Uber is the best option if you only have 24 hours in Montreal because it will get you from point A to point B much quicker than the bus or metro. You’ll be able to get an Uber car practically anywhere or anytime in Montreal. Especially during the chilly winter months, you may find yourself keen to choose Uber as your transportation in Montreal.
Related: Our article on the best ways to commute from the Montreal airport to Old Montreal and Downtown Montreal.
Where to Stay in Montreal for One Day
If you're spending just one day in Montreal and want to make the most of your visit, I recommend staying in a highly central location to minimize travel time and maximize exploration. The best choice for that is undoubtedly Old Montreal. It's the most scenic, historical and beautiful spot that every tourist want to check out, so being in the center of it makes sense when you are time poor.
Our top picks in the Old Montreal are:
- SpringHill Suites By Marriott Old Montreal (more details here)
- Hotel Nelligan (more details here)
However, if you're looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option that still keeps you close to the action, consider accommodations closer to Downtown Montreal and the vibrant Place des Spectacles.
Our top picks in Downtown Montreal:
- Hotel Square Philips (more details here)
- Hotel Quartier Des Spectacles (more details here)
- Hotel Hilton Bonaventure Montréal (more details here)
Both Old Montreal hotels and Downtown Montreal hotels will ensure you're conveniently positioned to make the most of your time in Montreal without spending excessive time on transportation.
Need More Help Choosing Where to Stay?
We have also put together two useful guides: where to stay in Montreal and family-friendly accommodations in Montreal.
Final Words on Planning Your Montreal one day trip
Although you could easily spend a week exploring this French Canadian city, this guide will help you make the most of your one day in Montreal.
As you can see, with the right plans, you’ll be able to cover the major highlights of the city. From lovely outdoor gardens and views to historic buildings, top-notch shopping, and mouthwatering cuisine, MTL has it all. Bon voyage, and happy trails in Montreal!
Read Next: Want more ideas to finalize your itinerary? Have a look at our more exhaustive list of fun things to do in Montreal.
About the Author
Anne was born and raised in Quebec City. She is our resident expert for the city of Quebec and other popular regional destinations such as Charlevoix and Gaspésie. Having travelled to every corner of the province with her children, she is also our expert for family related topics on Quebec Wonders.
