24 Hours in Old Montreal: Where to Eat, Sleep and Shop

Start your day off right with a carefully crafted dose of caffeine from Tommy, a bustling bi-level café boasting major Parisian vibes. Situated in the historic British Empire Building, the coffee shop features overwhelmingly cool architecture and design, much like its daily devotees. Tip: Nab an almond croissant alongside your Americano - there's a reason they sell out quick.

This rustic brunch hangout is overflowing with eager foodies, and for good reason too. Their take on gourmet comfort food is top notch, offering up over-the-top paninis and sweets galore. We recommend the O+G Grilled Cheese, which includes a mouthwatering mix of caramelized onions, raclette, gouda and a side of homemade ketchup.

Whether you're into fashion, home décor or gourmet treats, there's a store that will resonate with everyone and luckily, they're all only a few blocks apart. For fashion die-hards, head to the studios of Denis Gagnon and Rad Hourani. Gagnon creates elegant and contemporary fashions, while Hourani's designs are also modern but entirely unisex. For home décor, check out Espace Pepin Coin Maison - they specialize in modern furniture and cozy accessories, most of which are made in Canada. And lastly, if you've got a sweet tooth, pay a visit to Le Petit Dep for a kiddie-sized cone to go.

Need a quick bite to tie you over until dinner rolls around? Hit up Brit'n Chips, a classic British pub style eatery in the heart of Old Montreal. Their menu offering is simple, but that's precisely the reason we like it. No frills, just fresh white fish deep-fried in a deliciously crispy batter!

The best way to get to know Old Montreal and its surrounding neighbourhoods is on two wheels. After all, the city has been deemed the most bike-friendly spot in all of North America. We recommend Fitz & Follwell Co., as they offer smaller tours on Linus bicycles accompanied by knowledgeable and friendly guides. If you can only do one tour while you're here, take the 3-hour Montreal Highlights Tour — in addition to Old Montreal, you'll see Le Plateau, Mont Royal, Parc La Fontaine and McGill University's campus.

Dinner at Kyo Bar Japonais is a truly unique dining experience not to be missed. Located in the landmark Hotel Place d’Armes, the atmosphere at Kyo is lively and fun-filled. The menu is equally exciting, featuring colourful izakaya and sushi creations and the city’s largest sake list to date. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or enjoying an intimate dinner for two, this is the place to do it.

Once dinner is complete, head upstairs to the hotel's popular rooftop bar for one last drink. Terrasse Place d’Armes offers breathtaking views of Place d’Armes Square, Old Montreal and the downtown core. Plus, they're open until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays, so you won't have to worry about last call.

Going to Montreal without seeing a Cirque du Soleil show is like going to Montreal without eating poutine. Cirque originated in a small city in Quebec back in 1984 and even today, every single new show begins with a two-week stint in its home city which means you'll get to see the next big show before everyone else!

Click here to see a full list of current Cirque du Soleil shows in Montreal.

A trip to Montreal would not be complete without at least one poutine so before heading back to your hotel, make a pit stop at Montreal Poutine - one of the best places to get poutine in the entire city. They're open late on Fridays and Saturdays (1am) and even offer vegetarian options (think onion rings, fried mushrooms, crispy fries and meat-free gravy), so there's no excuse to pass this place up!

After a long and busy day, it's finally time to wind down at the trendy and newly renovated W Montréal. Located in a former bank building, it's perfectly situated on the outskirts of the Old Port so you're close enough to all of the action - but not too close. Take advantage of the hotel's spa, three lively bars and highly-effective "Whatever/Whenever" team, who are on hand to provide you with whatever you want, whenever you want it. So whether you need last-minute concert tickets or a bathtub full of whipped cream and chocolate, they've got it covered!