Friday
Start your adventure with a visit to Le Café Bloom in the Pointe-Saint-Charles neighborhood. This cozy, art-filled café is a local favorite, offering a menu of innovative brunch dishes like maple syrup-infused granola and smoked salmon bagels. After breakfast, head to the Atwater Market for a different experience. While this market is a bit more well-known, instead of sticking to the main stalls, wander through the back areas where you’ll find quirky vendors offering everything from local honey to handmade leather goods.
In the afternoon, explore Griffintown, a revitalized industrial area now filled with art galleries, design studios, and experimental spaces. Stop by Fonderie Darling, a contemporary art center housed in a former metal factory, showcasing installations that challenge the boundaries of art. As you wander the streets, keep an eye out for the neighborhood’s hidden street art and murals that give Griffintown its edgy, creative vibe.
For dinner, venture to Restaurant Elena in St-Henri, an up-and-coming neighborhood with a mix of old Montreal charm and modern flair. Elena is known for its wood-fired pizzas and natural wines, all served in a vibrant, minimalist setting. After dinner, skip the usual bar scene and visit Bar Renard in the Village, a speakeasy-style bar known for its creative cocktails and relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Saturday
Kick off your morning with a visit to Réservoir, a brewery and brunch spot in the Plateau known for its fresh takes on classic breakfast dishes, paired with craft beers brewed on-site. After fueling up, head to Mount Royal Cemetery. This may sound like an odd choice, but the cemetery offers peaceful walking paths and stunning views of the city. It’s also home to a variety of bird species, making it a serene escape from the bustling city.
Next, explore Little Italy but with a twist—skip the main strip and head to the lesser-known cafes and bakeries on the side streets. Café Vito is a local secret, serving up some of the best espresso in town in a quaint, no-frills setting. After a caffeine fix, make your way to Bibliothèque et Archives Nationales du Québec (BAnQ) in the Latin Quarter. While this might seem like a regular library, it hosts unique exhibitions, and its reading rooms are perfect for a quiet moment of reflection or catching up on some local literature.
For lunch, check out Dinette Triple Crown in Mile Ex. This Southern-inspired spot is known for its fried chicken and comfort food, but the real draw is the option to have your meal packed up in a picnic basket to enjoy in nearby Parc de la Petite-Italie. Afterward, explore Mile Ex, a neighborhood that’s still somewhat under the radar. It’s filled with small art studios, pop-up shops, and experimental eateries.
In the evening, dine at La Buvette Chez Simone, a wine bar and small-plate restaurant in Mile End that’s popular with locals for its laid-back vibe and excellent charcuterie. End your day at La Sala Rossa, a historic venue that hosts everything from indie bands to flamenco dancers. The venue’s eclectic lineup ensures there’s always something interesting happening.
Sunday
On your final day, visit Fairmount Bagel early in the morning to grab a fresh bagel straight out of the wood-fired oven. Then, instead of heading to Mont Royal, explore Parc La Fontaine in the Plateau. This park is less crowded than Mont Royal and offers lovely walking paths, a large pond, and plenty of spots to relax.
For something completely different, visit St-Viateur East, a street known for its offbeat shops and quirky art galleries. Drop by Drawn & Quarterly, an independent bookstore that specializes in graphic novels and hosts regular readings and events. Afterward, enjoy a late brunch at Beautys Luncheonette, an old-school diner that’s been serving up Montreal-style brunch since 1942.
End your Montreal adventure with a visit to Biosphere Environmental Museum on Île Sainte-Hélène. Housed in a geodesic dome, the museum is dedicated to the environment and sustainability and offers interactive exhibits that are both educational and engaging.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Montreal regular, this itinerary will show you a side of the city that’s off the beaten path, filled with hidden treasures and unforgettable experiences.
