Where to Book a Stay in Montréal, Canada, for a Local Experience

Across from Parc La Fontaine, and at the center of the Plateau-Mount-Royal district, this turn-of-the-century cozy inn occupies a lovely stone building. With its warm atmosphere, comfy furnishings and overflowing bookshelves, the property evokes the feeling that you’re staying with a friend. Despite its small size, the inn has a full-time concierge desk, where you can find helpful suggestions for sightseeing and dining options that are under most tourists’ radar.

Just steps from the exquisitely beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica, the Hôtel Place d’Armes is spread across four 19th-century Neoclassical buildings and is a prime spot from which to explore Old Montréal. As the winter wanes, the hotel’s rooftop terrace comes alive with locals and guests sipping fresh raspberry mojitos (the hotel’s signature drink) and taking in the incomparable views of the Place d’Armes square and Old Montréal. Weekend mornings at the hotel restaurant are a perfect time to see how Montréalers do brunch – just be sure to make a reservation.

One of the newest luxury boutique hotels in the city, this stunning Neo-Renaissance property is located in Montréal’s well-heeled Golden Square Mile neighborhood, offering an excellent opportunity to experience a lesser-known side of Montréal. Amazing panoramas are ensured, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights from which you can plan your Montréal adventure. Stylish and sleek, the hotel still manages to capture Montréal’s playful side, with touches like clawfoot bathtubs adorned with unique designs. The full-service spa is popular with both hotel guests and locals.

Named after one of Quebec’s most famous poets, Émile Nelligan, this hotel helps guests tap into Montréal’s artistic side. Housed in a captivating 19th-century building in Old Montréal, the property is just minutes from the waterfront Promenade du Vieux-Port, an ideal place for a romantic stroll. Terrasse Nelligan offers unparalleled rooftop views and celebrated handcrafted cocktails like Sangria Claire, said to be the most expensive (if tastiest) tippler in town.

This hotel often serves as a home-away-from-home for stylish Montréalers looking for a city staycation. The 18th-century stone structure is set on a quaint narrow street in Old Montréal that intriguingly invites exploration. Nearby, the museum Pointe à Callière offers an immersive journey into Montréal’s incredible history through original artifacts. Head to the hotel’s restaurant, Maggie Oakes, to enjoy dishes that highlight the best of local and Canadian cuisine.

Located in atmospheric Old Montréal, this 19th-century property charms with its pine floors, exposed brick, stone walls and thick wooden beams. Try to snag a room with a wrought iron bed and vintage Quebec furniture. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at Taverne Gaspar. At night, the tavern is abuzz with locals taking advantage of after-work drink specials and live music. Be sure to sample some of the local beers and spirits on offer.

Set in Venise-en-Québec in the Montérégie region, La Cache du Lac Champlain is designed for a more family-friendly experience of Montreal, emphasizing relaxation rather than urban attractions. The upscale four-star, resort-like property is just a 45-minute drive away from Montréal and features lovely lake views as well as an onsite golf course. The spa has a unique hydrotherapy pool, as well as massage and body treatments.

This cutting-edge boutique hotel is a favorite among the environmentally conscious, who appreciate the property’s ability to blend a green outlook with an appreciation for luxury. In fact, the hotel won the Tourisme Montréal 2020 Prix Distinction for its eco-friendly measures. Not only famous for its environmental ethos, with its white walls, concrete-heavy architecture and minimalist aesthetic, the hotel is also among the most design-forward establishments in the city. The spa features an outdoor Jacuzzi and in-room massages.

This trendy, cozy boutique hotel is a favored home base for both leisure and business travelers. Sixties-inspired decor abounds with amenities like flat-screen TVs and Nespresso machines as standard. The property also offers in-room spa services. Fur friends are welcome to stay (for an additional fee) with dog beds and treats thoughtfully provided. Montréal residents flock to Le Boulevardier restaurant for its brasserie-inspired menu.

This unique, tiny three-star hotel is located on the most bustling shopping and nightclub-laden street in Montréal, Rue Saint-Denis in the Plateau-Mont-Royal district. The decor is African-inspired, with exuberant touches of zebra and wildcat prints throughout the comfortable, clean rooms. Hotel Kutuma also gets rave reviews for its friendly and accommodating staff. Le Nil Bleu offers one of the best opportunities to dine on Ethiopian cuisine in the city and is always full of locals, so be sure to reserve a table.