Where to Stay in Montréal
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Montréal
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Mile End
An eclectic mix of indie boutiques, famous bagel shops, and a laid-back artistic scene.
Our top picks in Mile End
Le Plateau Mont-Royal
Bohemian and vibrant, known for its colorful houses and lively streets.
Our top picks in Le Plateau Mont-Royal
Downtown Montréal
The bustling heart of the city, a mix of business, shopping, and entertainment.
Our top picks in Downtown Montréal
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Mile End | Mid-range | An eclectic mix of indie boutiques, famous bagel shops, and a laid-back artistic scene. | foodiesculture |
Old Montréal | Luxury | Historic cobblestone streets meet chic boutiques and art galleries. | first-timerscouples |
Le Plateau Mont-Royal | Mid-range | Bohemian and vibrant, known for its colorful houses and lively streets. | solo travelerscouples |
Downtown Montréal | Mid-range | The bustling heart of the city, a mix of business, shopping, and entertainment. | first-timersbusiness travelers |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Montréal
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Tips for Backpackers in Montréal
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Montréal. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Montréal
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Montréal
Mile End
Mid-rangeAn eclectic mix of indie boutiques, famous bagel shops, and a laid-back artistic scene.
- +World-renowned bagels
- +Independent shops and cafes
- +Authentic local atmosphere
- -Limited hotel options (more B&Bs and rentals)
- -Can be a bit further out from major tourist sites
Old Montréal
LuxuryHistoric cobblestone streets meet chic boutiques and art galleries.
- +Charming historic atmosphere
- +Abundant dining and shopping options
- +Central to many major attractions
- -Can be very crowded, especially in summer
- -More expensive than other areas
Le Plateau Mont-Royal
Mid-rangeBohemian and vibrant, known for its colorful houses and lively streets.
- +Excellent restaurants and bars
- +Lively atmosphere with local feel
- +Affordable compared to Old Montréal
- -Can be noisy, especially on weekends
- -Hilly terrain in some parts
Downtown Montréal
Mid-rangeThe bustling heart of the city, a mix of business, shopping, and entertainment.
- +Excellent public transport links
- +Wide range of hotels and restaurants
- +Access to the Underground City in winter
- -Can feel less charming than other neighborhoods
- -Busy and sometimes overwhelming
Daily Budget (Budget)
CAD 80/day
Hidden Gems in Montréal
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Parcours d'art public dans le Quartier des Spectacles
FREEWander through the Quartier des Spectacles and discover a vibrant collection of permanent and temporary public art installations, from interactive light displays to striking sculptures, that transform the urban landscape.
Marché Jean-Talon
Experience the lively atmosphere of one of North America's largest open-air markets, where local farmers and artisans offer a dazzling array of fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and regional specialties.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Montréal
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Montréal Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Montréal on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Montréal Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Montréal with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Montréal: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Montréal's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Montréal: Scenic Excursion
Escape Montréal for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Montréal Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Montréal's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Montréal
Backpackers in Montréal: FAQ
What is the best area in Montréal for backpackers?
Is Montréal safe for backpackers?
How much does it cost per day in Montréal for backpackers?
When is the best time for backpackers to visit Montréal?
Where are the cheapest hostels in Montréal?
Found your hotel in Montréal?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Plan Your Perfect Montréal Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.