Winter delights in Montréal: A three-day itinerary

As the afternoon settles in, head to the Old Port and gaze out over the city from 60-metres above ground on Canada’s biggest Ferris Wheel: the Grande Roue de Montréal. Back on the earth, lace up your ice skates for a twirl around the outdoor skating rink in the Old Port, set to the backdrop of twinkling lights and music. In the mood for some pampering? The chic Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau, anchored in the St. Lawrence River, takes self-care to whole new levels with its restorative and reinvigorating water circuits. And while you’re there, have a nibble at La Traversée restaurant. The Scandinave Spa Vieux-Montréal is another superb spa option, offering you soothing treatments, sublime design, and all the serenity you crave.

Come cocktail hour, order a glass of wine with sharable plates at the lovely Italian-style buvette Un po di Più (designed by Zébulon Perron), or in one of the neighbourhood’s hidden bars.  

For dinner, it’s best to make reservations. Try one of the neighbourhood’s signature restaurants: Le Serpent, Monarque, L'Auberge Saint-Gabriel, Vieux-Port Steakhouse, Le Club Chasse et Pêche Restaurant Bar Salon or Graziella. Take a peek at the menus of Babacool, Bazart, Pincette, Buvette Pastek and Sauvage, brand-new hotspots where the on-trend crowd collects. 

For a truly winter experience, book one of the heated domes perched on the roof of the Hôtel William Gray hotel and savour exquisite culinary creations or a delicious brunch while enjoying a panoramic view of Place Jacques-Cartier and the St Lawrence River. Or dance your evening away under the stars at Igloofest, each winter in late January. 

Once the night revelry is over, tuck into bed at your hotel, a luxe cocoon amidst old stone walls. Enjoy the chic and cozy comforts of Hôtel William Gray, Hôtel Gault, Hôtel Place d’Armes or Le Petit Hôtel, some Old Montréal gems.

Whatever you do, don’t hide inside all day. Do as the locals do and celebrate the outdoors, even in the cold months. Beginner or experienced skaters alike can glide around the outdoor Esplanade Tranquille ice skating, and will cost you only the price of skate rentals. (Alternatively, if the weather is a bit too frosty, you can stay indoors at the Atrium Le 1000 skating rink.)

And speaking of being outside, if you time your travels for late February, MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE brightens the winter season. One of the largest winter festivals in the world, the annual celebration honours the joy of Montréal’s winter through a unique program combining performing arts, gastronomy, free outdoor family activities, and an all-nighter.

Finally, for a truly magical winter experience, dine upon the boreal flavours imagined by Chef Xavier Dahan under the stars in a heated dome at the Refuges du Bivouac facing the Place des Festivals.

Alternatively, take a stroll and see for yourself why so many visitors and locals love Little Italy. Discoveries include the sumptuous Jean-Talon Market, which is festooned in cheery lights during the holiday season. Grab a coffee and wander dreamily among colourful stands that will make you want to scoop up everything. One of the best ways to discover any city is through its culinary culture. Several companies offer food tours of Montréal, including the Jean-Talon Market. This is an ideal way to spend a few hours walking and tasting some delicious bites and learning about local lore. After eating, check out the recently revamped Plaza St-Hubert for its refreshing mix of on-trend and traditional boutiques that changes up the shopping experience. 

For dinner, discover local favourites like Vin Mon Lapin, Pumpui, Impasto,Lou (Gus), Mesón, and Tapeo. For after-dinner cocktails or glasses of beer, head to Taverne Atlantic, Vices & Versa or Bar Cicchetti — three sweet hangouts where you’ll likely have an opportunity to chat with locals. For evening entertainment, check out the events at the charming Casa d'Italia or the über-hip Bar Le Ritz PDB.