Montreal is an island city with a historic port, a lively Plateau district and a modern downtown. Its metro makes it simple to base yourself anywhere, so the best hostel is usually the one closest to a station and to the part of the city you want to see.
Our top pick: Montréal: The Original Old Montréal Walking Tour
Where hostels are
- Old Montreal: cobbled streets, Notre-Dame Basilica and the Old Port. Beautiful but a little touristy, with hostels in converted historic buildings.
- Downtown and the Quartier des Spectacles: central, close to shopping, museums and McGill University, with metro lines on every corner.
- Plateau Mont-Royal and the Latin Quarter: residential streets, cafés, murals and a younger crowd, a short metro ride from the center.
Getting in from the airport
Montreal-Trudeau Airport is about 20 km from downtown. The 747 express bus runs to the city and connects with the metro, and a transit pass covers it as well. Taxis use a flat fare to downtown. Rideshares are an option too, but the bus is the cheapest.
Safety and budget tips
Montreal is generally considered safe, and the busy districts feel comfortable through the day. Standard city caution applies: keep bags zipped on the metro, lock valuables in a dorm locker and check recent reviews for the street. To save, use a transit pass for the metro and buses, book ahead for summer festivals and winter holidays, and choose a hostel with a free breakfast. In winter, make sure the hostel has good heating and is close to a metro station.
Check hostel prices in Montreal
Layers beat one big coat. Winters are very cold and summers warm, and the underground city links downtown buildings so you can walk between them indoors.
Top-rated Montreal tours
Montréal: The Original Old Montréal Walking Tour
A walk through the oldest district. 4.8/5 from over 1,500 reviews.
Old Montreal Small-Group Walking Tour (Max 10)
A smaller, slower tour. 4.9/5 from over 800 reviews.
Montreal: Hop-On Hop-Off Double-Decker Bus Tour
Flexible sightseeing. 4.1/5 from over 3,500 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Montreal airport to a hostel?
The 747 express bus connects Montreal-Trudeau Airport with downtown and Berri-UQAM metro station, and is the cheapest option. Taxis charge a flat fare to downtown.
Do I need to speak French in Montreal?
No. French is the main language, but most hostel staff and tourist services speak English too. A few French greetings are always appreciated.
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