Not that long ago, there were no charming places to stay in Old Montreal. Over the last few years, that's changed, and these days, some of the most appealing hotels in Montreal are in the heart of the Old Town.
Hotels in Montreal Old Town.
With 30 rooms, many of which overlook Notre Dame Cathedral, Auberge Bonaparte is the perfect place for a romantic weekend. The rooms here have spacious armoires, hardwood floors, and wrought iron furnishings, and several have whirlpool baths. It's next door to the Centaur Theatre, and the roof-top terrace is fantastic in summer. With dishes like Duck Confit and Chicken with Brie and Port, their excellent restaurant would be a find in Saint-Germain-des-Pres.
Those who've dreamed of belonging to an exclusive British Men's Club, will enjoy the Hotel Le St-James. It's a member of the Small Luxury Hotels group, and it's the most opulent hotel in Montreal. The St. James is located in an old bank that was built in 1870. It's retained many charming 19th century touches like ornate plasterwork, grand columns, and wood paneling. And the 60 rooms have modern amenities including video-controlled lighting.
The St. James is convenient to everything in the Old Town, and XO Restaurant was the highest rated in Canada in 2009. If money's no object, the 3,500-square-foot Penthouse Suite with wrap-around terrace is the swankiest room in town.
Located in an old fur warehouse dating from 1723, Auberge Less Passants du Sans Souci has nine cozy rooms. Features like electric fireplaces, open-beamed ceilings, stone walls, whirlpool tubs, and hardwood floors, make it hard to leave the room. The lobby has revolving shows by local artists. And a full breakfast, which is included in the room rate, is served next to a pretty French fireplace.
Hotel Nelligan is named for Quebec's best-known poet. Opened in 2002, it's one of the most romantic hotels in Montreal. The owners purchased two adjoining 1850s buildings so they could offer more rooms. Now, of the 105 rooms, 59 are suites, some of which have terraces. You can see Old Montreal, and the St. Lawrence from the roof terrace so it's a great spot for a cocktail.
Hotel Place d'Armes is right across the square from Notre Dame Cathedral. With 83 rooms and 52 suites, it's one of the largest boutique hotels in Montreal's Old Town. The hotel is housed in three old buildings from the 1870s. Many of the rooms have brick or stone walls, and large bathrooms. Travelers who want to unwind and be pampered will appreciate the 2,000-square-foot Rainspa with its middle eastern hamman. After your massage, rehydrate in the lobby bar or roof terrace.
Hotels in Montreal downtown.
With an award-winning restaurant, popular wine bar, and 9,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, Hotel Le Crystal is a great choice for vacationers. And the downtown location is convenient for business travelers. The hotel has 131 suites with work stations, sitting areas, WiFi access, and flat-screen TVs. Kitchenettes with espresso makers and microwaves are great for those guests who are staying a while. With amenities like balconies, terraces, fireplaces, and soaking tubs, the Penthouse Suites are especially nice.
Convenient to McGill University, Hotel Le Germain has 99 modern rooms that were renovated in 2009. With ergonomically designed work areas and 42" LCD TVs, it's also a good choice for business travelers. Two bi-level suites provide additional space for those who need it. The Laurie Raphael Restaurant is one of the best in Canada for authentic Quebec cooking.
Shoppers will enjoy Hotel Opus, located right on stylish Boulevard Saint-Laurent. The hotel is in a beautiful Art Nouveau building designed by Arthus Godin in 1914. The adjoining addition is a modern, brick-and-concrete structure. The interior is modern and minimal with stainless steel, polished wood, and bright colors. Guests can stay in shape at the on-site 24-hour fitness center. And then replace the calories they burned in the popular lounge.
Located in the old Bank of Canada building, the W Montreal is filled with attractive young staff, well-heeled travelers, and style setters. If you can afford them, the Wow Suites with 20-foot windows and outdoor terraces rarely fail to impress. The attractive bars and lounges are popular with locals, as well as guests.
