Côte-des-Neiges Travel Guide
Plan your perfect trip to Côte-des-Neiges, Montreal with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and more!
- Introduction to Côte-des-Neiges
- List of Places to Visit in Côte-des-Neiges
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Côte-des-Neiges
- Mount Royal Park Hiking Trail
- Best Things to Do in Côte-des-Neiges: Activities and Tours
- Food Tours
- Bike Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Côte-des-Neiges
- Food and Drink Scene of Côte-des-Neiges
- Where to Stay in Côte-des-Neiges: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Auberge de Jeunesse HI Montreal Hostel
- Grand Plaza Montreal Centre-Ville
- What to Buy in Côte-des-Neiges: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Maple Syrup
- Local Art
- Local Culture and Customs of Côte-des-Neiges
- Best Time to Visit Côte-des-Neiges
- Do’s and Don’ts of Côte-des-Neiges
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Côte-des-Neiges: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Côte-des-Neiges
- Where to Go Next from Côte-des-Neiges: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Old Montreal
- Quebec City
- Conclusion
Introduction to Côte-des-Neiges
Côte-des-Neiges is a neighborhood located in the center of Montreal, Quebec. It is known for its diverse population, vibrant culture, and stunning natural scenery. The area was historically known for its religious institutions, including the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery, which is the largest cemetery in Canada. Today, Côte-des-Neiges is a bustling neighborhood that combines historic charm with modern amenities. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will share everything you need to know about visiting Côte-des-Neiges, including the best things to do, places to stay, and local food and drink scene.
List of Places to Visit in Côte-des-Neiges
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Canadian Jewish Experience Centre
The Canadian Jewish Experience Centre is a museum that showcases the contributions of Jewish Canadians throughout the country’s history. The exhibitions include interactive displays and audio-visual presentations that highlight the achievements and challenges of the Jewish community in Canada.
Oratoire Saint-Joseph
The Oratoire Saint-Joseph is a basilica situated on the slopes of Mount Royal. The basilica is one of the largest in North America and is dedicated to Saint Joseph, the patron saint of Canada. The basilica is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows, and peaceful gardens.
Natural Attractions of Côte-des-Neiges: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Mount Royal Park
Mount Royal Park is a sprawling urban park that’s the largest in Montreal. It offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for walking, running, biking, and picnics. The park also features several lookout points, including the Kondiaronk Belvedere, which offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park
Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park is located on the western edge of Montreal. The park offers hiking trails, beaches, and a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year. The park is also a popular spot for bird-watching and features several observation points for viewing local wildlife.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Côte-des-Neiges
Mount Royal Park Hiking Trail
The hiking trail in Mount Royal Park offers stunning views of the city and is accessible for all levels of hikers. The trail is approximately 8 km long and can take between 1-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace. The trail is well-marked and offers amazing views of the city skyline.
Best Things to Do in Côte-des-Neiges: Activities and Tours
Food Tours
Food tours are a popular way to explore Côte-des-Neiges and experience the local cuisine. Several local companies offer walking tours that highlight the neighborhood’s diverse food scene, including the area’s best restaurants, cafes, and food markets.
Bike Tours
Bike tours are another great way to explore Côte-des-Neiges and immerse yourself in the neighborhood’s culture. Several companies offer guided bike tours of the area that take visitors to the best cultural attractions, scenic views, and local neighborhoods.
Week-Long Itinerary for Côte-des-Neiges
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore the Oratoire Saint-Joseph and take a walking tour of the cemetery |
| 2 | Hike or bike the Mount Royal Park Trail |
| 3 | Visit the Canadian Jewish Experience Centre and explore the neighborhood’s cultural attractions |
| 4 | Take a food tour of Côte-des-Neiges and sample local cuisine |
| 5 | Spend the day at Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park and enjoy outdoor activities |
| 6 | Take a bike tour of Côte-des-Neiges and visit local neighborhoods |
| 7 | Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene |
Food and Drink Scene of Côte-des-Neiges
Must-Try Dishes
Poutine
Poutine is a classic Quebec dish that consists of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. There are several restaurants in Côte-des-Neiges that offer their take on this classic dish.
Bagels
Montreal-style bagels are famous around the world for their unique texture and flavor. Côte-des-Neiges is home to several legendary bagel shops, including Fairmount and St-Viateur Bagels.
Local Beverages
Microbreweries
Côte-des-Neiges has several microbreweries that specialize in craft beer. Visitors can enjoy tastings and tours of the breweries while learning about the local beer scene.
Where to Stay in Côte-des-Neiges: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Auberge de Jeunesse HI Montreal Hostel
The Auberge de Jeunesse HI Montreal Hostel is located in Côte-des-Neiges and offers affordable accommodations for travelers on a budget. The hostel is centrally located and offers a range of amenities, including free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a communal kitchen.
Grand Plaza Montreal Centre-Ville
The Grand Plaza Montreal Centre-Ville is a luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Montreal. The hotel offers spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center.
What to Buy in Côte-des-Neiges: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is a classic Canadian product that’s popular around the world. Visitors to Côte-des-Neiges can purchase locally made maple syrup and other maple syrup products, including maple candies and maple sugar.
Local Art
Côte-des-Neiges is home to several local galleries and art shops that feature the work of local artists. Visitors can browse and purchase unique pieces of art to bring home as a souvenir.
Local Culture and Customs of Côte-des-Neiges
Côte-des-Neiges is a diverse neighborhood that’s home to a wide range of cultural backgrounds. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including dress codes for religious sites and local customs for eating and drinking.
Best Time to Visit Côte-des-Neiges
The best time to visit Côte-des-Neiges is in the summer months, between June and August, when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are plentiful. The fall season, from September to November, is also a great time to visit Côte-des-Neiges, as the leaves change colors and the scenery becomes even more beautiful.
Do’s and Don’ts of Côte-des-Neiges
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Explore the neighborhood’s cultural attractions
- Try the local cuisine
- Take advantage of outdoor activities and scenic views
Don’t:
- Disrespect local customs or traditions
- Be loud or disruptive in public places
- Ignore safety precautions when hiking or biking
Safety and Health
Safety in Côte-des-Neiges
Côte-des-Neiges is generally a safe neighborhood, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take appropriate safety precautions. Always lock your doors and windows at night, and avoid walking alone after dark.
Health in Côte-des-Neiges
Côte-des-Neiges has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, that offer medical care to visitors and locals alike. Visitors should bring a copy of their medical records and insurance information in case of an emergency.
Getting to Côte-des-Neiges: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Côte-des-Neiges
The closest airport to Côte-des-Neiges is Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL), which is located approximately 12 miles from downtown Montreal. From the airport, visitors can take a shuttle bus, taxi, or train to Côte-des-Neiges.
Bus Stations Near Côte-des-Neiges
The main bus station in Montreal is the Gare d’autocars de Montréal, which is located in downtown Montreal. From the bus station, visitors can take a taxi, train, or bus to Côte-des-Neiges.
Other Options
Visitors to Montreal can also travel by train or car, depending on their location and transportation preferences.
How to Get Around in Côte-des-Neiges
Côte-des-Neiges is a walkable neighborhood, and visitors can easily explore the area on foot. The neighborhood also has several bike rental shops, making it easy to explore the area by bike.
Where to Go Next from Côte-des-Neiges: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Old Montreal
Old Montreal is a historic district located in the heart of downtown Montreal. The area is known for its stunning architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich history. Visitors can explore the neighborhood’s museums, art galleries, and local shops.
Quebec City
Quebec City is the capital of the province of Quebec and is located approximately 160 miles from Montreal. The city is known for its European charm, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.
Conclusion
Côte-des-Neiges is an amazing neighborhood that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or local cuisine, Côte-des-Neiges has it all. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has given you the information you need to plan your perfect trip to Côte-des-Neiges, Montreal.
