Montreal

I've been to Montreal a few times, so I think it's time I write a few places down. This is a compilation of some of the places I've personally been to and recommendations from trusted sources! I hope you get to check a few of these out.

I do want to say a few things about Montreal:

I recommend going in summer because I've been once in winter and it was brutally cold. In addition, there are more events happening in summer.
You will never be bored here. You are bound to hit some type of street festival, a concert or performances. Walk around!
Every time I'm in Montreal I get a European vibe from the architecture, the food and fashion (keep that in mind when packing).
Montreal has a very good subway system that should get you anywhere you want to go.
Take comfortable shoes as there are many cobblestone streets. This city is very walkable.
Despite what you may have heard, the people are very nice and welcoming. Many (if not all) restaurants do serve in English and French. I have never had problems.

Bon voyage mes amis!

Where to stay:

One great area to stay is near McGill University. I did stay once at Hotel Le Germain and it is a beautiful hotel with a great location.
I stayed near Mont Royal subway station once. This area has many bars, restaurants, etc. It's more on the hipster side of town. I will not recommend the hotel I stayed in, so we'll leave it at that.
I'm in love with Old Montreal area (Vieux Port), so if your budget allows, this is definitely the romantic part of Montreal, but it is also more touristy if that's a problem for you.
In general, staying near a subway station is perfect as you can get anywhere you want very quickly.
I highly recommend checking Airbnb for accomodations.

What to see:

Parc Mont Royal - make sure to see the lookout area onto all of Montreal's skyline. Check the map here.
Notre-Dame Basilica - someone recently recommended checking out the Aura Show, but even if not for the show, go inside. It is beautiful.
Old Montreal - many shops, restaurants. Very European looking part of town.
Montreal Biodome and Olympic Stadium
Grand Prix Montreal - hotels do get expensive and Montreal gets crowded but it is that much more lively.
Casino
Walk along the Quai de l'Horloge and the Jacques-Cartier Pier
Interesting streets to walk:
- Rue Guy and Rue Crescent - have a lot of popular restaurants and bars.
- Rue St. Denis - many shops.
- Rue St. Laurent - many restaurants, bars and shops.
- Rue St. Catherine - very lively, great for shopping - mainstream brands.
A friend recommended two stores for some great shopping: La Montrealaise and Stockmarkt
Check out the Jazz Festival

Where to eat:

These are listed in no particular order and ones I highly recommend:

Olive Et Gourmando - it was so good we went twice. This is a great breakfast place!
Schwartz - I don't care how many other good smoked meat places there are. I love this one!
Icehouse - a small place with a good variety. Slightly pricey, but delicious. They were featured on "You Gotta Eat Here"
Dominion Square Tavern - amazing ambience, delicious food and fantastic cocktails. I didn't even get to the main meal as the appetisers were amazing.
Cafe Parvis - a small cafe with amazing pizzas, salads and soups. Great for lunch.
La Banquise - super famous poutine place, movies were filmed outside and inside this restaurant. Delicious poutine.
Marche de La Villette - make sure to get cheese fondue and french onion soup, you won't regret it.