When we decided to start a travel section on this blog we wanted to make something a little different. Since we are a fashion blog, we thought it was only appropriate that we report back on the shopping that cities had to offer. The big shopping centres, small boutiques and hidden gems. On top of that, however, we also wanted to cover the travel basics, like what to do, where to stay and where to eat.
For our first travel post, we got the chance to head to New York City. This time around we packed our luggage for a weekend in Montreal, and were excited for the chance to experience what the city has to offer. Visiting Montreal is like going to a little European city. You have all the architecture, the food, and the accents…just with a Canadian attitude. We spent the whole weekend shopping, eating and sightseeing and here are our favourite spots.
La Maison Oligvy and Boutique Duo - Credit: Oligvy and where.ca
Where to shop:
Known as just Oligvy to locals, this high-end department store (a french version of Holt Renfrew, which Montreal also has) features some of the most luxurious brands and is known for their Christmas windows. The store also has a luxurious ambiance, with chandeliers and aisles lined with trees. Visit the store between 12-1pm to see a bag piper playing in the store, a shopping tradition at the store.
1307 Sainte-Catherine Street W.(514) 842-7711 Transit: Peel Station
The menswear boutique features everything a fashion-forward man will need in one location. The boutique carries designs from Marc Jacobs, Dior Homme, D&G, DSquared and more. Everything from clothes, shoes and accessories can be found in this must visit Montreal Boutique.
30 Prince-Arthur St. W., 514-845-0882 Transit: Saint-Urbain/Prince-Arthur Station
This all-in-one department store has something for everyone in the family. Mall brands can be found alongside trendy designers like Rick Owens Drkshdw and Kris Van Assche, and European fashion houses like Jean Paul Gaultier and Givenchy. Visit the Sainte-Catherine location for the best selection.
977 Sainte-Catherine St. W., 514-282-1840 Transit: Peel Station
Vintage Shopping
You can’t go to Montreal without visiting the vintage stores. The city is known for having amazing vintage shopping and the shops can be found all over the city. We picked three of our favourite stores that shouldn’t be missed on your trip.
RetroMania: 820 Av Du Mont-Royal E, 514 843-4904 Transit: Mont-Royal Station
Les Folles Alliées: 365 Avenue du Mont-Royal E. (514) 843-4904 Transit: Mont-Royal Station
Eva B: 2015 Saint-Laurent Blvd (514) 849-8246 Transit: Saint-Laurent Station
La Milsa Montreal
Where to eat:
We found this Brazilian restaurant by accident and we were happy we did! Lo0king for someplace to have a nice dinner, but not wanting anything over the top or too fancy, La Milsa was the perfect balance. The menu features a barbecue buffet, with 10 kinds of meat cooked on charcoal and served straight off the grill. Make sure you stay for the grilled pineapple, a perfectly light dessert to finish your meal. 1560 Sainte-Catherine St. Est., Tel: 514-508-5222, Transit: Geaudry Station
A cute fast food joint that doesn’t taste like fast food at all. The burgers and sandwiches are named after different cities and are delicious. If you stop by make sure you try the O’poutine, which was delicious. 1777 McGill College Ave., Tel:(514) 285-0005 Transit: McGill Station
Old Montreal and Notre Dame Basilica
What to do:
This historic neighbourhood in lower Montreal, features restored 18th and 19th century buildings and warehouses, that are now restaurants, art galleries, boutiques and homes. Walk around and explore the streets as you get a piece of Montreal history. A must visit is the jaw-dropping Notre Dame Basilica (also known as Celine Dion’s wedding venue) and the street performers at the Place Jacques-Cartier.
Transit: Place-D’Amres Station
Underground City
The Underground City is an underground pedestrian network (the largest in the world), that connects over 2000 stores, 200 restuarants, 34 cinemas, 10 metro stations and more. You could spend a whole day just walking around the underground city. Use the underground in the summer to cool off and to keep warm in the winter.
Hotel Place d'Armes
Where to stay:
Le Place d’Armes Hôtel & Suites
The first boutique hotel in Old Montreal, The Place D’armes mixes a modern vibe with old world history in the 19th century building. The hotel, a favourite with celebrities, is close to amazing restaurants, shopping, attractions, and a metro station. Also, to celebrate the Hotels 10th anniversary, designer Denis Gagnon designed the new hotel uniforms. A nice surprise is the free welcome cocktail, and make sure you check out the spa (we were told it’s the best in Montreal).
55 Sainte-Jacques St., (514) 842-1887 Transit: Place- d’Armes Station
If you are looking for a place that is off the main hustle and bustle of the downtown core, the Le Meridian Versaille is a great choice. Located in the west end in the Golden Mile neighbourhood, the hotel is close to many high-end stores (Holt Renfrew, Hermes, Tiffany & Co.), art galleries and antique stores. Make sure you take advantage of the free admission to the Contemporary Art Museum and Architecture Museum, available with your room keycard.
1808 Sherbrooke Street W., (514) 933-8111 Transit: Guy-Concordia Station
