48 Hours In Montreal

Two days in the second largest city in Canada? Sign me up. Sure two days doesn’t really sound like much, but as the summer begins to wind down, and holidays dwindle, you do what you can to savour the last bit of your summer. If you focus on the highlights, make the most of your visit and plan your time properly, (this list should definitely help) you won’t be disappointed with what you can see or do. 

Montreal is Canada’s  second largest city, so I’m sure you can imagine the possibilities it has to offer.  Montreal thrives on its fresh creative scene so there is always something exciting happening. From historic and gorgeous architecture to entertaining festivals, amazing eats -  and of course the shopping - Montreal is such a great place to escape for a mini or extended vay-cay.

If you’re staying overnight, I always like to recommend an Airbnb. There are plenty of options in Montreal that have a lot of character and are usually close to an attraction. The one I recently stayed at was located downtown, perfect for two people. This condo was so close to everything, we didn’t even need our car. It was super aesthetic with exposed brick walls, a comfy bed and had a 600' square patio equipped with a beautiful view. (Here is the link!)

To me, Montreal is such a happening city. The main reason for my recent visit was to attend the Just For Laughs Festival. JFL is held each July in Montreal, Founded in 1983, it is the largest international comedy festival in the world! This year I saw my favourites Ashley Hesseltine and Rayna Greenberg (the gorgeous ladies behind Girls Gotta Eat Podcast) and they didn’t disappoint! Aside from JFL, There seems to be a festival for everyone in Montreal especially during the summer months. Whether it’s Osheaga, ÎleSoniq, Montréal Pride, or Italian week, there is something for everyone. 

Attention foodies! Definitely, make sure you save room for food because Montreal has the most restaurants per capita in Canada! Everywhere you look there is a cafe or food stand. Montreal is known for its famous smoked meat so if that entices you, you have to try Schwartz's Deli or Reuben's Deli & Steakhouse.

If you’re not much of meat eater (or even if you are) the next two restaurants were truly to die for! First we stopped for dinner at Kampai Garden. Two words: trendy & delicious. For those who know me i love a good neon sign.. this place had the cutest ones so I figured it was going to be a good spot. The menu was sharing-style so we ordered a few delicious items such as the Black Bean Udon, The Salmon Tartare, dumplings and of course a few cocktails! I recommend the rose water mojito - it was simply amazing! 

The next spot was LOV. This entire restaurant was 100% plant based and the food was incredible. SO much love for LOV, see what I did there? Hehe. The atmosphere was gorgeous - white exposed brick, marble tables, great lighting, an aesthetic girl’s dream.. Not to mention the food was delicious and there is a dish for everyone, such a large variety! 

Last, but certainly not least, shopping is a must when in Montreal. Your best bet is to start on Ste. Catherine street. This is one of the largest stretch of retail stores in Canada with access to over 1,200 merchants. Designer boutiques are throughout the area to attract shopaholics and fashionistas. Filled with Montréal's iconic stores such as La Baie, Ogilvy, Simons, Holt Renfrew, Forever 21, H&M, Brandy Melville, Urban Outfitters etc., you will find countless boutiques and independent clothing shops that have a distinct character. Some of my favourites include: 

-Citizen Vintage a boutique that offers sustainable alternatives to fast fashion by recycling and up-cycling vintage clothing

-1861 a boutique known for its creative dress designs and enticing interior design

-Boutique Unicorn a boutique with hand-picked selection of international, national & mostly local designer brands. 

When you’ve shopped until you’ve dropped there is a hidden gem that you just can’t miss. Maison Lavande is a lavender field located just 30 minutes from downtown Montreal in Saint-Eustache QC. This short drive is certainly worth it, as it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. This place is absolutely stunning with rows and rows of bright lavender and a scent that will truly put you at ease. Maison Lavande offers more than 100 lavender-derived products, a beautiful cafe, picnic tables, a boutique and of course a ton of unique instagram-able spots ;) Only 10$ to enter the garden, is certainly worth the price of admission.

Montreal is such a fabulous city and always so much fun to explore. Hoping my experiences and recommendations help you enjoy Montreal the way I did this past month. Eat, drink and explore, you’ll be sure to have a fun-filled time in this historic, entertaining city!