We've already told you about the multitude of events that take place across the city in the warm estival months, drawing crowds from across the country, the continent, and the world. But we also know that tourists don't only come to Montreal for its festivals : they want to explore this unique city, and experience what Montreal has to offer. Therefore, we've put together a list of a few fun streets that all visitors (and locals) should check out in Montreal this summer.
AVENUE MONT-ROYAL (Plateau)
The Plateau is Montreal's hip and trendy neighbourhood. Simply put, it's where the cool kids hang, and Mount-Royal Avenue is the heart of it all. Mural art, record stores, vintage shops, vegan garb, and lemonade... it is the pinnacle of hipsterism. Whether you are into that scene or not, you will love the Plateau. Venture down the side streets to see typical Montreal architecture (yes, plenty of outdoor staircases to be seen). The Plateau also hosts an annual Mural Festival featuring artists from around the world, held this year between June 9th and 19th.
Once you get tired of walking in the scorching heat (yes, we freeze in winter but Montreal gets h-o-t in summer), we recommend grabbing a drink on one of the street's many terraces (or as our Ontarian friends like to call them: patios) and just people-watching. The human diversity in Montreal is astounding and beautiful. And if you're there at night, lucky you! Because the Plateau has an awesome bar scene! Try Fitzroy and Distillerie, entre autres.
Getting there : take the orange line to Mont-Royal metro station. From there, walk West up avenue Mont-Royal until you hit Jeanne-Mance and Mount-Royal parks. If you make it there on a Sunday, you'll even catch the tam-tams!
RUE ST-PAUL (Old Montreal)
This one we probably didn't have to tell you. It is definitely THE go-to spot in Montreal for tourists and locals alike. And with reason. The cobblestone streets, the Nouvelle-France architecture, the horse-drawn carriages (which you can bring up in conversation with the locals if you want to spark a debate). Start in Place Jacques Cartier (the main square) and wander down the side streets. St-Paul is a favorite: with its old-world charm, it is not to be missed. It has a panoply of bars and restaurants of all kinds, including but not limited to the infamous Montreal Poutine: yes, we know that you're dying to try our succulent fries-cheese-gravy combo. In terms of shopping, it has everything from tacky souvenir stores (where you can finally get that wolf-howling-at-the-moon t-shirt you've been hunting for) to upscale art galleries.
However, like any high-density tourist area, things can get a bit pricey. And the quality isn't always reflected in the price. So if you're looking for a guaranteed great eat that won't put you in the poor house, try Jardin Nelson. With its entrance on the main square, you'll dine in a whimsical semi-open courtyard. May we suggest you make a reservation though, as it's a popular spot all year long.
Getting there: take the orange line to Champs-de-Mars metro station, then follow pedestrian signs for Old Montreal. However, if you have limited mobility, this might be a bit complicated as there are stairs and hills involved. A better option from downtown might be to take the
RUE STE-CATHERINE EST (Gay Village)
No matter which way you swing, the Gay Village welcomes you with open arms. From May to September, "Le Village" becomes a pedestrian street, bustling with people at all hours of the day (and night)! Montreal is a very gay-friendly city, which has led to The Village's ever increasing popularity. The Village is well reputed for its nightlife, with bars and clubs to tickle all kinds of fancies. Chez Mado, a popular drag-cabaret bar, is one of the street's most iconic venues.
Getting there: take the orange, green or yellow lines to Berri-UQAM metro station. From there, head East down Ste-Catherine street. Tip: if you're walking under strings of little pink balls, you're going the right way.
RUE FLEURY EST (Ahuntsic)
This one's a little off the beaten track. However, we are about to give you one undeniable reason to make the trip: it has one of the best ice cream shops in the entire city. Virevent offers about a dozen ever-changing flavours of homemade ice cream and sorbet. Salted caramel, strawberry-vanilla-basil, lime-and-mint, lychee sorbet... They also have six dipping options for soft-serve ice cream, including dark chocolat and white chocolate and maple. As for the others, you'll have to go see for yourself!
Fleury Street has a very Montreal vibe without the bustle of downtown. It has tons of cute boutiques, cozy terraces, and lots of green trees tunnelling over the side streets. And if you head over there between June 16th and 19th, you'll be just in time for the sidewalk sale happening on the strip... we bet there'll be some.
Getting there: from Henri-Bourassa metro station (orange line), take the 146 bus four stops to Christophe-Colomb.
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