Vieux Montreal

It it said that heading to Montreal is like going to Europe without the flight.

In the Vieux Montreal, or Old Montreal, area with its narrow walkable streets and 17th and 18th century architecture this is especially true.

Extending from the edge of the more traditional downtown area to the mile long row of activities along the St. Lawrence River, the Vieux Montreal offers a different vibe than we saw in the rest of the city.

We stayed in a Sonder-run apartment on the edge of this district and appreciated being able to stay here as it allowed us to stay in walking distance of the river, shops and restaurants that this area had to offer. 

Along the Vieux-Port offers the opportunity to walk, bike, or pedal your kids in a four seater bicycle with the backdrop of downtown Montreal in the distance. 

There is lots of shopping in the area from the Bonsecours Market to independent shops along the Rue de Saint Paul.   This area is big on selling handcrafted art work from local artists.  We just felt that it was a fun area to walk around and with staying nearby it offered a lot of close options for dinner with various forms of entertainment along the river.

Our favorite attraction in the area was the Notre-Dame Basilica de Montreal .  Built during the first half of the 19th century, it is reminiscent of any grand cathedral you would see in Europe.  It's blue hue and magnificent organ are two distinct features that make it different .  You can stand outside and hear the church bells ring every hour.  They also have a light show that is a big attraction but one we did not attend.

We visited other areas in Montreal that we will detail later but staying in this area was greatly enjoyed.