I travel alone to Montreal, and let me tell you, it’s one of the BEST decisions I’ve ever made. Montreal has that perfect blend of European charm and North American vibe, which makes it so unique and fun for a solo traveler like me. It’s super easy to get around, and there’s just so much to do. Here’s how my solo travel in Montreal goes down.
Exploring the old Montreal Vibe
First stop? Old Montreal! Walking through these cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time. I mean, wow, the Notre-Dame Basilica is stunning, right? You have to check it out—it’s breathtaking inside, with all the colors and the stained glass. I just stand there for a few minutes, totally in awe.
Then, I wander down the Old Port area. There are cute little shops, tons of street performers, and this amazing boardwalk by the water. For solo travelers in Montreal, this place is PERFECT. You can grab a coffee, sit by the river, and people-watch for hours. I meet a couple of other travelers here, and we even end up riding the Ferris wheel together. The views of the city? Just magical.
Eating my way through Montreal as a solo traveler
You can’t travel to Montreal without diving into the food scene. I make it a point to try poutine—the city’s most famous dish. It’s fries, gravy, and cheese curds, and let me tell you, it’s DELICIOUS. I find this little spot called La Banquise that everyone recommends, and they have SO many types of poutine. I go classic, and it doesn’t disappoint.
And then there’s the bagels! Montreal bagels are different from the ones in New York—smaller, a little sweeter, and boiled in honey water. I stop by St-Viateur Bagel and OMG, I love this! It’s warm, fresh, and perfect with cream cheese. When you’re on a solo travel adventure in Montreal, tasting these local specialties is a MUST.
Mount Royal: A solo hiker’s paradise
Now, if you need some nature, Mount Royal is the place to be. It’s like the heart of the city, and hiking up to the Mount Royal Lookout is totally worth it. I take my time climbing the stairs, enjoying the quiet trails and the view getting better with every step. Once I reach the top, the entire city spreads out in front of me. It’s the best way to get a feel for Montreal. Plus, I meet other solo hikers up there and even share a few laughs. There’s a sense of community that makes solo travel in Montreal feel less lonely.
Strolling around plateau Mont-Royal
Plateau Mont-Royal is my favorite neighborhood, hands down. It’s got street art on every corner, quirky cafes, and some of the best thrift shops I’ve ever seen. As a solo traveler, I feel super comfortable here—everyone’s laid-back, and there’s this cool, artsy vibe. I grab a seat at an outdoor café, order an espresso, and just watch people pass by. It’s moments like this that make solo travel in Montreal so special—you get to slow down and truly absorb the atmosphere.
Nightlife and meeting people
Now, Montreal is known for its nightlife, and even as a solo traveler, I don’t miss out. I head to Rue Saint-Denis, which has a ton of bars. There’s this cozy pub called Le Saint-Bock, where they have craft beers and a super chill crowd. I end up chatting with a couple of locals who give me more tips on things to do. It’s awesome how friendly everyone is here.
Another night, I check out a live music venue, Casa del Popolo. The vibe is great, the music is indie, and people are so open to talking. I realize solo travel in Montreal is easier than I thought—it’s all about putting yourself out there a little.
Tips for solo travel in Montreal
- Public Transportation: Montreal has an awesome metro system, and it’s easy to figure out, even if you’re not a local. Get a day pass if you plan to explore a lot in one day.
- Languages: Most people speak both French and English, so don’t worry if you don’t know French. People switch to English pretty quickly if you need.
- Safety: I feel totally safe walking around Montreal, even at night. Just use common sense, of course, like you would anywhere.
Solo travel in Montreal is honestly one of the best experiences for anyone looking to have a mix of adventure, culture, and fun. The city is vibrant, friendly, and full of amazing things to do, from eating your way through local spots to exploring charming neighborhoods and connecting with fellow travelers. If you’re planning to travel alone, put Montreal on your list—you won’t regret it!
