7 chic places to visit in Montreal that feel like stepping into a scene from 'Emily in Paris'
Montreal is known as the 'Europe of North America' for good reason. The historic architecture, world-renowned food, and French language can make you feel like you're experiencing a day in the beautiful city of Paris — if you know the right spots, that is.
This means you don't need a plane ticket to live out your very own Emily in Paris fantasy, a show which — by the way — returns to Netflix on Thursday for the second part of its fourth season.
If you want a taste of Emily Cooper's chic lifestyle as an American marketing prodigy and fashionista working in France, then note down one (or all) of these places to visit in Montreal.
Who knows? You might even find your own Gabriel or Alfie. At the very least, you'll fall in love with Montreal's European charm all over again.
Marché Aux Fleurs MTL
Address: 459, rue Sainte-Catherine O.
Why You Need To Go: Paris, especially the Paris that Emily explores on-screen, is full of enchanting surprises at every turn. One moment she's on a jog, and the next she's savouring an exquisite pastry from a quintessential French café. These moments of surprise and delight can be found around Montreal, too. The gorgeous flower kiosk, Marché Aux Fleurs MTL, stands in front of a historic church on rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest and boasts some of the most beautiful bouquets you’ll find in the city. Check it out on your next trip downtown.
Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
Address: 3800, ch. Queen Mary
Why You Need To Go: One of the most stunning examples of religious architecture in the city, Saint Joseph's Oratory also serves as a spectacular sunset lookout point. Its long staircases and domed roof also happen to resemble the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre in Paris. Head inside the grand building or walk the many staircases and get lost in the history, just like you might in Europe.
Climbing the beautiful stairs to the top of the oratory and watching the sun set over the city is common amongst Montreal locals and tourists alike. If you want to get a good view, head there at least 20 minutes before sunset. Bring your Gabriel or Alfie to turn it into a romantic date night.
Square Saint-Louis
Address: 312, rue du Square-Saint-Louis
Why You Need To Go: Square Saint-Louis has to be one of the most beautiful (as well as most photographed) parkettes in the city thanks to its picturesque fountain, breathtaking architecture, and quaint café in an old stone structure.
The colourful Victorian homes that line the streets around the square, tall trees, and wrought iron fences, all contribute to the square being labelled "the closest thing to a European neighbourhood square you'll find this side of the Atlantic" by the Project for Public Spaces.
Small tables for two are set up by the coffee kiosk, along the park's pathway. So, dress up in your trendiest outfit and go for a stroll, or lounge at one of the bistro sets with a coffee in hand, as you channel your inner Emily Cooper and think up brilliant ideas to bring back to the office.
Crew Collective & Café
Address: 360, rue Saint-Jacques
Why You Need To Go: Emily goes to some of the most marvellous Parisian cafés, historic office buildings, and lavish venues and you can go to all three wrapped in one at Crew Collective & Café. This beautiful building was once the Royal Bank of Canada, but now houses private work spaces to rent, desks, and a café with seating. The former bank has even retained unique artifacts like banker's lamps and teller stations.
Walking through the European-like Vieux-Port and then heading into the gorgeous café will definitely make you feel like you’re in an episode of Emily in Paris. So bring your laptop, grab a warm beverage, and take in the energy of the people around you. Even if you don't work in Old Montreal, you can still enjoy the architecture and be productive.
Square Victoria
Address: Corner of avenue Viger and côte du Beaver Hall
Why You Need To Go: Square Victoria is a small parkette bordering the Old Port and downtown Montreal. It offers Parisian vibes with a 19th-century statue and Montreal’s very own Parisian-style metro sign.
In fact, the authentic Paris métro railing with its "Art Nouveau" casting was actually designed by French architect Hector Guimard in 1900, acccording to Tourisme Montréal, and "was offered to the City of Montréal by the City of Paris, on the occasion of the 1967 World Exhibition." So, you can snap a pic next to it and feel like you really are touring through Paris.
Around the square, you'll find numerous fountains, benches, and a Queen Victoria monument to marvel at as you people-watch. At the southern end, there's a lovely flower stand where you can purchase gorgeous bouquets.
Just like Emily, while sitting in the bustling downtown core of a city rich with European charm, you'll discover peace, calm and beauty amongst the urban chaos.
Hotel Place d’Armes
Address: 55, rue Saint-Jacques
Why You Need To Go: Hotel Place d’Armes is a must-visit spot in Montreal (whether you are actually staying in the hotel or not) because it offers a little bit of everything. The jaw-dropping 19th-century neoclassical architecture of the building will make you feel like you just stumbled across the Atlantic and landed in France.
The Notre-Dame Basilica is just across the street, so even if you’re admiring the hotel from the outside, you can sit and enjoy live music from street performers who are almost always present in the square.
The Hotel itself offers excellent meals and beverages, spa packages to help you relax and rejuvenate, as well as a terrasse in the summer. No matter what activity you decide to do, this hotel has an Emily in Paris vibe for every mood.
Place de la Grande-Paix-de-Montréal
Address: Place d'Youville
Why You Need To Go: Just off the busy city streets, right by the Saint-Lawrence River, is the tranquil Place de la Grande-Paix-de-Montréal. This square features a large obelisk in its centre, and was home to the first well ever created on the Island of Montreal.
The park benches and beautiful architecture of the stores, coffee shops and restaurants add to the ambiance of the small park. Just next door is a beautiful café, U67, located in the Uville Hotel, where you can get cocktails, coffees, and pastries.
In true Emily in Paris fashion, this is a great place to sit, rest and contemplate which of your two lovers you're going to choose, while taking in the historic sights.
Two people driving racing simulators. Courtesy of Heineken
Bartenders pulling pitchers of Heineken. Courtesy of Heineken
The set list for Festival Heineken. Courtesy of Heineken
Someone at a picnic table holds a fork and serving of meatballs next to a glass of wine. Right: A pistachio and haloumi salad.
