J'Adore MTL: Poutine, Culture & Charm—The Perfect Weekend Getaway

Montreal is a city of distinct character that effortlessly blends professional capability with vibrant European charm, making it a spectacular choice for a business trip that warrants a weekend extension. The successful transition from my work commitments at the stunning OTL Gouverneur Sherbrooke to my weekend of exploration based at the local and charming Sonder Lambert highlights the versatility of the city’s accommodations. The OTL provided the necessary high-end amenities for business meetings, while the Sonder placed me perfectly in the heart of the action for a spontaneous city break. This contrast confirms that Montreal is ideal for clients looking to seamlessly blend work obligations with genuine leisure.

Montreal Old Port Ferris wheel

Enjoying the view from the Ferris wheel

Favorite aspects & personalized recommendations

What truly sets Montreal apart is the sheer variety of experiences packed into a walkable core. I immediately fell in love with the historical atmosphere of Old Montreal, where cobblestone streets and stunning architecture transport you centuries away. For a breathtaking overview, taking a ride on the Ferris wheel is a must-do—it provides stunning panoramic views that perfectly orient you to the city. My clumsy attempt at the ice skating rink (definitely a "Bambi on ice" moment!) proves that the city offers accessible, fun activities for all ages and skill levels, making it a great family destination as well. Clients should always be advised to keep their eyes open, as stumbling upon a real-life movie set during filming, as I did, adds an unexpected layer of Hollywood excitement to the everyday charm. This city is also a haven for shoppers, and no trip is complete without diving into the cuisine, especially the iconic poutine.

Who should visit Montreal?

Montreal is the perfect destination for several client types. It is ideal for "bleisure" travelers, who need a dynamic setting to host meetings but want a rewarding, culture-rich destination to unwind after work. It’s also excellent for couples and culture seekers looking for a European feel without the transatlantic flight time, thanks to the city's history, architecture, and numerous museums. Finally, it’s a must for foodies ready to try the iconic poutine and explore the city’s incredibly diverse restaurant scene. My final advice is simple: the blend of high-end lodging, unexpected cultural discoveries, fantastic food, and fun, accessible activities makes Montreal a city that demands a weekend extension.

Final tips

The seamless transition from the OTL Gouverneur Sherbrooke to the Sonder Lambert demonstrates that choosing two distinct hotels for a "bleisure" trip works perfectly—a high-end spot for work, and a flexible, locally focused base for exploring. Make sure to book your airport and inter-city transfers in advance. While public transport is great, having a private ride pre-arranged or using a taxi app will save valuable time and stress, allowing you to start exploring faster.

Maximizing the solo weekend

Montreal is incredibly welcoming to solo travelers:

• Walkability: The city center, Old Montreal, and the main shopping districts are extremely walkable, making it easy and safe to explore alone.

• Dining: Don't hesitate to dine solo! Montreal's diverse restaurant scene, especially around the Plateau and Old Montreal, features many casual, counter-service, or bar-seating options perfect for single diners.

• Safety: The city is generally very safe, but being aware of your surroundings, particularly at night in busy areas like the entertainment district, is always wise.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Montreal page.