Montreal’s love of creativity and originality also stretches to its fine collection of funky places to stay. From cute boutiques to modern high rises, here are my favorite spots in the city…
1. Auberge du Vieux-Port
This charming European-inspired boutique is located in sought-after Old Montreal, near great restaurants and attractions like the Notre Dame Basilica and the Montreal Museum of Fine Art.
I found original features like brick walls, pinewood floors, and sash windows open to the street. My guest rooms had beds with brass frames, easy chairs, and armoires made of solid wood added to the Old World look but also had a flat-screen TV, minibar, and free Wi-Fi, and some rooms had kitchenettes with open-plan living areas with fireplaces, and balconies with stunning views of Saint-Lawrence River and the Old Port.
The hotel’s main-floor restaurant is regarded as one of the finest in Old Montreal, and I loved the complimentary breakfast, where you could choose the continental buffet or order from a menu.
There was no on-site spa, so I thought the biggest stand-out feature was the rooftop terrace, which offered panoramic river views.
2. Hotel Epik
This is a cute, cozy and stylish boutique hotel located in the historic Vieux-Montreal district, just a short stroll from the imposing Notre-Dame Basilica and the Place-d’Armes Metro Station.
My guest room was a mix of traditional and modern design with exposed brick walls, a cozy fireplace, dark wooden beams contrasted with white bed linens and cushioned leather bed frame. In room amenities included a large flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi and a modern coffee maker.
There was also an on-site restaurant that offered traditional Italian cooking on its hidden patio and year-round in its dining room. The room boasts long wooden tables and a combination of plush velvet purple walls and rough-hewn limestone walls.
I was a big fan of the breakfast comprising quiche, home-baked pastries, cold cuts, fruit, cereal, and yoghurts.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Epik
3. Hotel Nelligan
This place is in Old Montreal, one of the city’s most beautiful and historic districts. Its cobblestone lanes are lined with quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries, and you’ll find attractions such as Basilique Notre-Dame and Cirque du Soleil.
I was a big fan of the contemporary design, which featured trendy exposed brick walls, silk seats dark carpets and wood floors. My room had wall art, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, stereos, air conditioning and a lush jetted bath!
I’d suggest dining at the onsite French Restaurant and Verses Bistro, which offered well-thought-out European and Canadian cuisine, or you can enjoy drinks at the bar and higher dishes at the Terrasse Nelligan, a popular rooftop perch with views of the Old Port and St. Paul Street.
4. Humaniti Hotel
Humaniti is a new lifestyle hotel focusing on sustainability. It is located close to Old Montreal and the business core. I’m a big fan of modern interiors, and I thought the geometry-inspired design of art and human living, as well as sculptures and nature-inspired artwork, made it stand out!
My room was spacious and light-filled contrasted with dark wooden accents and splashes of color. It featured luxurious bedding, air conditioning, high-speed internet, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a large flat-screen TV.
There were on less than three upscale restaurants in the actual hotel complex, an onsite café, and a sophisticated bar overlooking outdoor sculptures. Definitely check out the 9th floor terrace, the views of the city below were beautiful!
Other amenities include room service, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a spa and wellness facility, and even a cute gift shop!
5. Hotel Monville
This modern boutique had a hi-tech urban vibe, and I was also a big fan of the Old Montreal location. The decor was slick and contemporary, and my room included a white platform bed, wood-paneled accent walls, and subtle recessed lighting.
Room amenities included mini-fridges, Nespresso machines, safes, free Wi-Fi, hairdryers, reading lamps, flat-screen TVs, and individual temperature settings, and some offered spectacular views.
The hotel also features a lobby bar and café, which offers a comprehensive cocktail menu, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and supper), and takeout snacks and drinks.
There’s also an outdoor terrace, a 24-hour front desk, a gym, concierge and laundry service, Wi-Fi, and valet parking. Pets are allowed but with restrictions.
6. Le Mount Stephen
Located in the heart of Downtown, on the exclusive Golden Square Mile, this sleek abode is close to several attractions such as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral and McGill University.
My high-end room included Bluetooth speakers, HDTVs with internet connections, reading lamps, electronic safes, Nespresso machines and incredible views from the large slanted windows.
Some suites offered patios, one-and-a-half baths, fireplaces, beautiful hand-painted bathtubs, a complete kitchen, and private elevator access.
I’d suggest trying out Bar George, a well-known restaurant that serves all meals (breakfast, lunch, supper, and brunch), between-meal nibbles, and a full bar. The breakfast buffet has a Britannia theme, so expect a full English!
7. Hotel William Gray
This contemporary spot is in an excellent Old Montreal location, within walking distance of attractions, restaurants and even pretty cobblestone lanes!
The rooms are categorized into standard rooms and suites, each with a simple or lavish decor. My room had a white-bedded platform bed, mid-century bentwood chairs, cute mustard yellow wingback armchairs and long, sleek tables!
They all had flat-screen TVs and Bluetooth; some had separate soaking tubs and views of the waterfront and Ferris wheel.
I recommend checking out Maggie Oakes restaurant, the lobby bar, an Italian-style coffee shop and the lush full-service spa!
8. W Hotel
This is a fun and fabulous party spot in the downtown region near attractions, retail areas, and restaurants. Montreal has many great things to do, but staying here is up there!
My funky, spacious room had a luxury bed, high-tech entertainment, a minibar, coffee/tea makers, free Wi-Fi, temperature control, an iPod docking station, flat-screen TVs, and accessible charging outlets.
I suggest visiting the on-site restaurant for its inventive fusion cuisine, which includes a combination of local and foreign ingredients, and the Living Room Bar for fabulous cocktails, darling!
My other favorite hotel highlights include a gym, concierge services, a 24-hour front desk, room service, valet parking, and the friendly multilingual staff.
- To book, check prices or availability for W Hotel
9. LHotel
LHotel Montreal is known for its unique historic charm and combination of modern and luxury. Located in Old Montreal, it has a unique charm and an extensive art collection.
My room was spacious, with comfortable bedding, a private bathroom, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and a coffee/Tea Maker.
I’d recommend trying out the on-site restaurant, which offers a sophisticated dining experience with exquisite food in a modern atmosphere. Or sit at the bar to sip cocktails before exploring the best this beautiful city offers!
- To book, check prices or availability for LHotel
10. Hotel St.Thomas
You can explore key sights such as the Old Port of Montreal, Notre Dame Basilica, Sainte-Catherine Street, and the Museum of Fine Arts by walking or borrowing a free bike from the hotel.
There were 23 rooms with simple and beautiful design elements, including handmade furniture, patterned wallpaper, sumptuous velvet chairs, matte black steel and gold accents, and unconventional artwork. My favorite features were the whirlpool bathtubs, balcony, and yoga mat!
The Salon Thomas serves breakfast, coffee all day, and snacks in the evening. It also makes a great workspace with lots of natural light and comfortable seating. My favourite highlight was the spa with a Turkish steam bath, plunge pool, lounge and outdoor terrace! Lush!
11. Hotel 10
I thought this was a sleek contemporary gem outside Old Montreal, close to neighboring attractions such as the Montreal Science Centre and Notre Dame.
The ultra-modern interiors were in a light color scheme of soft gray, cream, and pink dotted with tasteful black-and-white shots of sculptures or landscapes. My suite had a complete kitchen, coffee-making machines, 55″ flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, electronic safes, mini-fridges and individual temperature control.
You can get a complete breakfast buffet, a wine bar and nightclub, split into two separate spaces for dancing and drinking, and an open-air terrace.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel 10
12. Hotel Gault
This 4-star gem is located in Old Montreal near shops, restaurants, museums, and gorgeous old architecture! My room had a minimalist design largely in grey and white, wood cabinets, local artwork, loaner iPads, and a soft FLOU bed! Some suites had large patios and kitchens perfect for more extended stays.
The Gault’s restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch but not dinner. The breakfast was tasty, with fruit, crepes, pastries, omelettes, and bagels. I liked that it partnered with the adjacent Spa By Valmont, and dogs were also permitted (for an extra fee).
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Gault
This award-winning chic abode is located near boutiques, restaurants, and tourist attractions such as the Saint Lawrence River, the Monteregian Hills, and the Sir George-Etienne Cartier Monument.
I was a big fan of the luxurious vibe they created here, with its white-on-white color scheme and details like wacky cushions and framed images of Vogue magazine covers!
My spacious room had high-end amenities like Egyptian cotton linens, loveseats, and framed historical Vogue covers. Marble bathrooms have separate showers and huge Jacuzzi tubs.
I’d highly recommend visiting the rooftop terrace, a lovely relaxing place during the warmer months. The on-site restaurant also includes outdoor dining and a stylish lounge area.
14. Hôtel Uville
If you love everything retro, you’ll feel right at home in this groovy hotel next to a park called Place de la Grande-Paix, or Place of Great Peace.
There are views of the park, mod décor, essential lines, and nostalgic details such as avocado green furniture and a record player with vinyl records.
My room featured Hypoallergenic bedding, a memory foam bed, a shower with hydro massage, and Smart TVs with streaming services.
The hotel offers a free breakfast to go and a bar. Room service is delivered to your room every morning, or you may dine in the lobby or pick up a packed breakfast.
15. Le Petit Hotel
Let quirky cafés, cobblestone streets, and historic residences surround Petit Hotel’s location in Old Montreal.
My room had a bright, contemporary design, exposed stone walls and dark-finish furnishings. Amenities included the Marshall Bluetooth speakers, flat-screen televisions, minibars, free Wi-Fi, USB connections, and individual temperature settings.
I also found continental breakfast and specialty coffee among the amenities and an off-site fitness facility at a sister hotel.
