Montreal, a bustling hub full of art and culture and rightfully named the culture capital of Canada, features an array of museums, galleries, festivals, displays of impressive architecture, and a recent influx of new boutique hotels dedicated to showcasing the beauty of this historic city. Here’s ten of the city’s most uniquely designed, upscale hotels.
Located in the historic district of Vieux Montreal, St Paul Hotel presents a unique contrast to the old city with its modern and minimalist interior. Like many of the converted buildings in Old Montreal, the hotel benefits from sprawling spaces, high ceilings and large picture windows. The rooms are decorated with traditional materials like polished hardwoods and exposed stone, with panoramic views of the old quarter. The hotel has received numerous national and international awards, and its beautifully mastered décor has resulted in it being called Canada’s first design hotel.
Formerly known as the Opus Hotel, Hotel 10 is situated on the corner of Sherbrooke and St. Laurent, close to the popular entertainment district and Old Montreal. The intriguing building has two distinct sections, the historical ‘Edifice Godin’ and the modern concrete addition, which offers both classic and modern designed rooms. This unique hotel is also pet-friendly for all of you pet owners looking to get away for the weekend.
Hotel Le St-James, once a Second Empire bank building dating back to 1870, was restored and converted to a boutique hotel. Its interior design features restored period details such as faux-Greek columns, antique chandeliers and candelabras, keeping its original character in tact. The hotel’s restaurant, XO Le, was created by celebrated chef, Michele Mercuri, and in 2009, was named as Montreal’s highest rated restaurant with a clientele of celebrities like Madonna and The Rolling Stones.
Auberge du Vieux Port is another upscale, historic spot in Old Montreal, housing 45 rooms and Taverne Gaspar, a gastro-pub located in the cellar. The Auberge is the city’s only hotel located along the Saint Lawrence River—and you can enjoy exclusive views from the rooftop terrace or one of the 15 room that face the waterfront. Amenities include deep soaker tubs, double Jacuzzis, and jetted showers, Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour beverage bar in the lobby. There are also loft suites, which are located a short walk from the hotel and are great for longer stays—fitted with kitchenettes and offering more privacy away from the hotel.
LHotel, a popular choice by many for its location, is surrounded by numerous museums, monuments, art galleries, cafés and shops. The original building, once used as the head office of the Montreal City and District Savings Bank, was designed by Michel Laurent and built in 1870. There’s an impressive collection of private Pop and contemporary art at this hotel (one of the largest collections in North America, in fact). Whether you’re in the halls, lobby, or staying in one of the guest rooms, you’ll have the chance to see works by Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Indiana, Chagall and Botero.
The highly acclaimed Ritz-Carlton, located in Golden Square Mile, is known to attract many high profile clients and celebrities (Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill and Richard Nixon have all stayed at this location), and with its beautiful greenhouse, carefully manicured garden, and famous Maison Boulud Restaurant, it’s apparent why this is the first choice for many. Aside from the incredible interior and décor, the Ritz Carlton offers residencies for various artists and projects.
Loews Hôtel Vogue, an award-winning boutique hotel, is located in the fashionable area of downtown Montreal. Just a 30-minute walk from Old Montreal, or a 5-minute walk from the underground city. This modern hotel boasts impressive panoramic views of the city and the rooms feature French-inspired design. The interior is so grand, it is fit to host weddings, events and meetings. The hotel also has a day spa and popular restaurant where guests can learn about the craft of mixology, making this the perfect stay for any occasion.
Hotel Gault is located on a quiet street in Old Montreal. The rooms are classy, and in addition to the regular comforts you’ll find modern showers, heated bathroom floors, and balconies for some rooms. Although the hotel is slightly off the beaten track, it’s within easy walking distance of restaurants, shops, significant sights, the Metro, and the Old Port.
Le Petit Hôtel & Café is a romantic boutique hotel with historic charm in the heart of Old Montreal. Housed in a 19th century structure and located close to the district’s fine dining and brunch spots, rooftop bars, shops, and more, while also being slightly removed from the bustling tourist areas. The décor is contemporary with a European flair. Amenities include free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast.
The interior of Hotel Le Germain has loft-style ceilings with large French windows that bring in natural light and boast magical views of the city. The décor (and staff uniforms) were all designed by Christiane Germain, a nationally renowned Quebec fashion designer and co-president of Groupe Germain and Marie Saint Pierre. The hotel, located on the corner of Mansfield Street and President-Kennedy Avenue, is right in the heart of downtown Montreal making it the prime spot for those looking to get out in the city.
