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McGill University is Montreal’s crown jewel of academia! Timeless red brick buildings stand proudly in the heart of the city, their columns and courtyards radiating intellectual elegance. Inside the library, rare manuscripts and old books glow like stars; on the central lawn, students debate, write poetry, or nap beneath maple trees. Each step echoes with brilliance—this is where minds ignite. Visit not just for the scenery, but to feel the pulse of human curiosity itself.
Everything you need to know about McGill University
Stay at McGill Student Housing, located on or just steps from campus, offering safe, affordable, and convenient lodging. Rooms come fully equipped, with easy access to libraries, lecture halls, and campus cafés. Nearby, Le Château de Mont-Royal provides stylish apartments blending historic architecture with modern amenities—ideal for travelers seeking authentic Montreal academic vibes.
Advantage: Excellent location integrates study and daily life, perfect for exploring the city and engaging in university culture.
Walk just 10 minutes to Place d'Armes Metro Station and take the Orange Line, reaching Downtown Montreal in under 15 minutes. Alternatively, catch the Bus #56, which runs directly along Saint Catherine Street through shopping districts and cultural landmarks. For eco-friendly travel, use the Bixi bike-sharing system—bikes are available near campus and the ride to downtown takes about 20 minutes.
Tip: Purchase an Opus card in advance for discounted transfers across all transit modes.
Visit the McGill University Art Gallery for free exhibitions featuring contemporary Canadian and international art linked to academic research. On weekends, enjoy the Student Union Market—a vibrant mix of local artisans, handmade goods, and street performances in the campus courtyard. The Redpath Library, with its Gothic Revival architecture and extensive collection, is also a must-see for history and photography lovers.
Highlight: Participate in the annual Open House Day, where non-students can tour campus buildings including labs, concert halls, and historic classrooms—a rare glimpse into Canada’s top-tier academic environment.
Yes, dining options near McGill are abundant and diverse. Inside campus, McGill Campus Dining serves global cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free choices. Just outside, Café L’Étoile offers a cozy French bistro experience with artisanal pastries and coffee. Within 10 minutes’ walk is Maison D’Or, famous for its classic Montreal smoked meat sandwiches.
Must-try: Attend the weekly Société des Étudiants themed dinner, featuring international dishes and student talent shows—an authentic taste of Montreal youth culture.
McGill Park is a green oasis within the campus, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails—perfect for families. Nearby, Mount Royal Park offers panoramic views of Montreal, accessible via the Mont-Royal Metro Station (15-minute walk).
Family activities: Summer outdoor movie nights and concerts; winter sledding hills and festive light displays. Also, the Montreal Botanical Garden (15-minute drive) houses over 30,000 plant species—ideal for children’s education and nature exploration.
Facilities: Most parks have restrooms and water fountains, making them suitable for extended visits.
Join Local Culture Walks led by students, exploring neighborhoods like Old Montreal and Plateau Mont-Royal, stopping at independent bookshops, vintage markets, and graffiti-covered alleys. Visit Les Fous du Roi, a local pub serving Quebec craft beer and French-inspired tapas, capturing the city’s social rhythm.
Deep dive: Try the McGill Farmers Market every Sunday morning—fresh produce, handmade bread, and conversations with local growers. These experiences offer genuine insight into Montreal’s lifestyle and community spirit.
Stay at McGill University Residence, located on campus for ultimate convenience, with easy access to classrooms and libraries. Nearby, Le Château de Mont-Royal Hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, providing excellent service in a quiet setting. The area boasts diverse dining options, from cozy cafés to authentic French restaurants, making it perfect for immersing in Montreal’s academic and cultural vibe.
McGill University is west of downtown Montreal, accessible via the Green Line Metro (Peel Station), reaching downtown in just 10 minutes. From there, you can quickly explore Place d'Armes and Old Montreal. Multiple bus routes, including Bus 56, connect directly to landmarks like the Birks Building and Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, offering a seamless and efficient transit experience throughout the city.
Join events hosted by the McGill Student Union, such as local music performances, art exhibitions, and intercultural forums. Visit the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel on weekends to admire colonial-era religious architecture. For nature lovers, hike along the Lachine Canal Trail, enjoying scenic riverside views and wildlife—perfect for blending history, art, and outdoor adventure.
Hotel Le Westin Montreal is ideal for families, offering child-friendly rooms, family suites, and complimentary breakfasts with on-site activities. Located just a 15-minute walk from the Montreal Biosphère, it’s perfect for parent-child outings. Nearby parks like Mount Royal Park provide spacious green areas where kids can run freely, ensuring a safe, well-equipped environment for family stays.
McGill Square is a must-visit photo spot, featuring classical arches and stone columns creating a romantic backdrop—especially stunning at sunset. Another favorite is the Main Reading Room of McGill Library, with its soaring dome and historic bookshelves evoking a scholarly atmosphere, perfect for artistic shots. Don’t miss Place des Arts for skyline views that contrast urban architecture with the university’s heritage buildings, offering rich visual storytelling.
Head to the Mile End District, home to independent cafés, live music bars, and small theatres like Bar Coq and La Sala Rossa, offering vibrant and creative nightlife. For relaxation, stroll the Mount Royal Park trails at night, gazing at the illuminated city skyline. Alternatively, enjoy a casual dinner at Les Cinq Saisons’ outdoor patio, soaking in the charming French-inspired evening ambiance.
See what other travelers say about McGill University
We absolutely loved our stay at Liv MTL - Soho in Montreal! The apartment was spotless, cozy, and beautifully designed—perfect for a relaxing getaway. The rooftop terrace was a real highlight; spending time up there with a drink in hand, enjoying the city views, made the whole experience even better. It’s such a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring the neighborhood. The only minor issue was that one of the outlets in the bathroom wasn’t working, but it didn’t detract from the overall excellent experience. With its prime location, modern vibe, and welcoming atmosphere, we’d definitely book again. Highly recommend for travelers looking for comfort and convenience in the heart of Montreal.
I had a fantastic stay at Hotel de Paris Montreal—truly one of the best experiences I've had in Montreal. The location is perfect, just a short walk from downtown attractions and public transit, making it easy to explore the city. The room was spotless, spacious, and beautifully designed with a chic mix of French elegance and modern touches. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and I slept like a baby—no noise from the street thanks to excellent soundproofing. Staff were warm, professional, and always ready to help. What stood out most was the attention to detail: from the stylish furnishings to the thoughtful amenities. It’s not just a place to sleep—it feels like a home away from home. For anyone visiting Montreal, this hotel offers exceptional value and a memorable stay. I’ll definitely be back.
The check-in process was extremely frustrating, and I'd strongly advise taking the negative reviews seriously before booking. We paid a $500 security deposit upon arrival, which has not been refunded after two months of follow-up emails. Our first response acknowledged it as an oversight, but since then, all further messages have gone unanswered. The lack of communication and accountability is unacceptable—especially for such a significant amount. This experience has left us deeply disappointed, and we can't recommend staying here if you value transparency and customer service.
Staying at Le Nouvel Hotel was an absolute delight. The executive room was incredibly spacious—far more than I expected for the price—and offered fantastic value for money. I was impressed by how well-designed and comfortable the space felt, with a cozy bed and thoughtful touches throughout. The bathroom was a real highlight: clean, modern, and stocked with high-quality amenities. Everything felt fresh and well-maintained. Location-wise, it's conveniently close to downtown Montreal, making it easy to explore the city on foot or via public transit. Staff were friendly and efficient, adding to the overall pleasant experience. This place truly exceeded my expectations—definitely a top choice if you're visiting Montreal, and I’d happily return without hesitation.
Staying at Hotel le Germain Montreal made visiting McGill University a breeze—just a 5-minute walk away, and the Peel metro station is right on the doorstep for easy city travel. If you're not fluent in French, driving in Montreal can be challenging, especially downtown. We chose to skip the car entirely and relied on public transit and Uber, which worked out perfectly thanks to the hotel’s central location. It’s incredibly convenient for exploring the city without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or language barriers. A great base for travelers who want flexibility and ease—highly recommend!
Staying at Sonder Lambert Apartments in Old Montreal was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—right next to Notre-Dame Basilica and tucked away on a quiet side street, perfectly balancing convenience with peace. I walked to the cathedral in just a few steps, reached Old Port within minutes, and was only a 10-minute stroll from Chinatown and the Art Museum. Three days of exploring entirely on foot made it so easy and enjoyable. The apartment itself is beautifully converted from a historic French-style building—classic exterior with a fresh, modern interior. It’s fully equipped with a well-stocked kitchen, washer, and dryer, making self-catering a breeze. The bed linens were soft and comfortable, ensuring a great night's sleep. For a short stay in Montreal, this place hits all the right notes—great location, smart design, and excellent value.
Staying at Auberge Les Bons Matins was such a delightful experience! This charming property in Montreal is made up of several connected townhouses with a classic French-Canadian vibe—think front-facing stairs, curvy back staircases, and vibrant, artistic colors that pop on every wall. My room, 705, was spacious and comfortable, with a cozy little nook perfect for brewing coffee or preparing light snacks. It had everything I needed, from storage to a well-lit workspace. The only thing to note? Just one short interior staircase to get to the room—but it’s not a hassle at all, more like part of the character. The location is fantastic: close to public transit, walking distance to cafes, shops, and the city center. It’s clear this place values personality and comfort equally. A truly unique and welcoming stay—I’d absolutely return!
The Loft Hotel delivered exactly what we were looking for—an authentic old-world charm in the heart of Montreal’s Latin Quarter. Staying in room 613, which was over 1,300 square feet, felt more like living in a stylish apartment than a hotel. The spacious loft-style room came with a full kitchen, a king and a queen bed, and plenty of room to stretch out—way more space than we expected. Located just steps from Vieux-Port, Rue des Fortifications, Notre-Dame Basilica, and family-friendly spots like Grande Rue, everything was walkable. The building’s historic stone structure and cobblestone streets added character, even if some minor updates to lighting, electrical outlets, and drywall would’ve been nice. Honestly, though, those small imperfections only enhanced the unique, eclectic vibe. We loved the authenticity, comfort, and location. Thanks, The Loft Hotel—we’ll be back!
Staying at Novotel Montréal Centre was an absolutely delightful experience. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming from the moment I arrived—friendly, efficient, and always ready to help. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and fully equipped with everything I needed. The bed was exceptionally comfortable, with clean, soft linens that made for a restful night’s sleep. Located just steps away from the metro, getting around Montreal was a breeze. I loved how close it was to restaurants, shops, and attractions—perfect for exploring the city without hassle. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed, and the overall value was outstanding. I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Montreal, whether for business or leisure.
Staying at Hotel Zero 1 Montreal was an absolute highlight of my trip to Montreal. The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown and surrounded by great restaurants, cafes, and local vibes. The hotel itself feels modern and thoughtfully designed, with clean, spacious rooms and excellent comfort, especially the bed—perfectly balanced for a restful night’s sleep. Staff were friendly and attentive, even upgraded my room without any hassle. What really stood out was how much value you get for the price—luxury amenities without the luxury price tag. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Montreal.
Staying at The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal for two nights was an absolute delight. The hotel feels like a living museum—elegant, timeless, and steeped in history. Every staff member went above and beyond with genuine warmth and patience, making me feel truly welcomed. Breakfast at Maison Boulud on the ground floor was a highlight—the garden views were serene, the service impeccable, and the buffet offered a wonderful variety of delicious options. From fresh pastries to gourmet dishes, every bite was satisfying and energizing. It’s rare to find such a refined yet personal experience. This wasn’t just a stay—it was a memorable luxury escape. Highly recommended for anyone seeking elegance and authenticity in Montreal.
Absolutely perfect location! Right in the heart of Montreal, I was just a short walk away from everything—dining spots, shops, and the scenic park right outside. The morning light filtering through the trees was breathtaking. The hotel itself is clean, well-maintained, and staff are genuinely friendly. For the price, it’s an unbeatable value. I’d stay here again without hesitation.
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