Montreal: A Summer Escape Filled with Food, Fun, and Culture
Montreal, Canada is one of those cities that immediately captures your heart with its blend of European charm and urban energy. With cobblestone streets in Old Montreal, vibrant neighborhoods, and a flourishing food scene, it's the perfect destination for a memorable summer getaway. We visited Montreal in July and stayed in a cozy Airbnb across from La Fontaine Park, which turned out to be the perfect base for our adventure.
Exploring Montreal by Bike
Montreal is a biking paradise, and the best way to experience the city’s diverse neighborhoods and stunning waterfront is on two wheels. We highly recommend renting an e-bike to cover more ground, especially if you want to explore some of the city's hills like Mont Royal or bike along the Lachine Canal.
La Fontaine Park, our home base, quickly became one of our favorite places. This massive green space in the heart of the city is perfect for morning walks, afternoon picnics, or just lounging under a tree with a good book. It’s also a great spot to immerse yourself in local life—there’s always something happening, from impromptu soccer games to live music performances. If you’re in town on Canada Day (July 1st), expect even more excitement, with celebrations and live music in parks across the city!
A Foodie’s Dream in Montreal
Montreal's food scene is world-class, and we wasted no time diving into some of the best culinary experiences the city has to offer.
Tommy Café – Whether you're on Rue St-Paul Ouest or Mont Royal, this spot is perfect for starting your day with great coffee and a hearty breakfast. The café vibe is bright and lively, making it a great stop before hitting the streets to explore.
Les Tropiques – If you’re near La Fontaine Park, this is the place for an afternoon treat. The ice cream here is out of this world, offering creative flavors that hit the spot on a warm summer day.
Le Cartet Resto Boutique – We ventured downtown for brunch at this amazing spot, and let me tell you—it's worth every penny. The food is nothing short of art, with flavors that wow and a presentation that’s Instagram-worthy. The coffee and service were just as exceptional, and you can easily walk off your meal by strolling to Old Montreal or the Old Port nearby.
Modavie – For a classic French dining experience, Modavie delivered. Not only was the food superb, but the cozy yet upscale atmosphere made for a memorable evening. It’s not the cheapest spot in town, but if you’re in the mood to splurge on French cuisine, this is it.
Frite Alors – No trip to Montreal is complete without indulging in some poutine, and this spot on Saint Denis Street is the place to go. The rich gravy, squeaky cheese curds, and crispy fries made for the perfect comfort food. The area around the restaurant is also worth exploring for its cool vibes and boutiques.
St. Viateur Bagels – You can’t visit Montreal without trying its famous bagels. We grabbed a few from Mont Royal, paired them with some coffee, and headed out to enjoy the city. The bagels are like no other—dense, chewy, and perfect.
An Unforgettable Birthday Dinner at Île Flottante
One of the absolute highlights of our trip to Montreal was celebrating my birthday with an unforgettable dining experience at Île Flottante. This French tasting menu restaurant redefined what a meal could be—each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and bursting with flavor. The atmosphere was elegant yet relaxed, and the attention to detail in both the service and the presentation of each course made the evening feel truly special.
As each meticulously crafted plate arrived, we were treated to a symphony of unique flavors and textures that showcased seasonal ingredients in creative and delicious ways. From the fresh seafood to the inventive desserts, every bite was a testament to the chef’s mastery of French cuisine. The wine pairing elevated the experience even further, with perfect selections that complemented each course flawlessly.
It was easily one of the best meals of our lives—an intimate, elevated experience that I’ll cherish forever. If you’re in Montreal and looking for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, I can’t recommend Île Flottante highly enough. It was the perfect way to celebrate, and I left feeling like my birthday had been honored in the most memorable way possible.
Drink and Unwind
If you love craft beer, Montreal won’t disappoint. The microbreweries here are top-notch, offering unique brews that reflect the city’s creative energy.
Dispensaire Microbrasserie is a great spot for grabbing a locally crafted pint after a day of exploring the artsy neighborhoods.
Le Cheval Blanc – If you’re a fan of beer history, you’ll appreciate this being the first microbrewery in Montreal. Established in the 80s, it has some of the best beer around.
For a taste of European brewing styles, we were recommended Le Dispensaire de Bière, a Czech brewery that’s been around for years and has a solid reputation in the beer scene.
Things to Do in Montreal
Old Town and Old Port – We spent hours wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal and along the Old Port. The architecture, history, and overall atmosphere are simply enchanting. If you love walking, this area is perfect for meandering and discovering little shops and hidden gems.
Mont Royal – Whether you hike or bike up to the top of Mont Royal, the views of the city are incredible. It’s a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying some fresh air and greenery.
Biodome Museum – A rainy day took us to the Biodome, where we got to explore different ecosystems, from hot tropical environments to cold arctic worlds. It was a fun and educational experience that’s great for all ages.
Bota Bota Spa – For ultimate relaxation, Bota Bota Spa was an absolute highlight. This floating spa on the St. Lawrence River offers a 3-hour water circuit, which includes everything from saunas and cold plunges to steam rooms and hammocks. We also treated ourselves to a relaxation massage, which was one of the best I’ve ever had (and I’ve been to spas all over the world!). Pro tip: go early in the day to beat the crowds and have the spa almost to yourself!
Montreal’s Vibrant Culture
Montreal is a city that pulses with culture, especially in the summer when festivals, live music, and outdoor markets seem to be around every corner. St. Catherine’s Street is always buzzing, and it’s loaded with bars and shops for all tastes. If you’re into history and architecture, don’t miss the Notre-Dame Basilica—even if you opt out of the entry fee, the exterior alone is worth a visit.
Montreal is a city that feels alive, where every neighborhood offers something different, and every meal feels like a revelation. Whether you’re biking through La Fontaine Park, enjoying poutine at Frite Alors, or soaking in the views from Mont Royal, there’s something magical about this city. I can’t wait to return and uncover even more of what it has to offer.
Curating Adventures That Ignite Your Spirit.
Warm Regards,
Haley | SoulSpark Travel
