At the height of the Montreal winter, when temperatures are firmly below freezing, the McGill bubble crystallizes. If you’ve begun to feel that the only journey worth braving the slippery sidewalks is the one to the library, perhaps The Tribune can convince you to explore one of the city’s most charming quarters: Old Montreal. A day there promises cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and a vibrant mix of shops and eateries. Even in the cold, Old Montreal beckons, promising an adventure worth stepping outside for, no matter the time of year.
Gallery hopping
Old Montreal has a rich selection of galleries, where you can warm up from the winter chill and be inspired by the diverse range of art on display. Founded in 2010, Galerie Images Boréales represents nearly 200 Inuit artists, showcasing works made from materials such as bone, walrus ivory, and serpentine.
Next up is Galerie Blanche, one of Montreal’s most prestigious contemporary art galleries. Established in 2007, the gallery is known for its eclectic collection of contemporary art, featuring works by Québécois, Canadian, and American artists, spanning both figurative and abstract styles. For even more contemporary art, stop at Maël Galerie, which is dedicated to promoting Québécois artists of all backgrounds, providing a platform to elevate the visual arts profession and highlight its essential role in society.
Shopping
Boutique Olive et Gourmando is a tiny store that offers a selection of gourmet ingredients, kitchen tools, dishware, and decor. The shop celebrates a love for food and the home, showcasing a range of high-quality products perfect for both cooking enthusiasts and those looking to elevate their kitchen and dining experiences. At Boutique Édition, the focus is squarely on design, with every item carefully selected for its innovative approach to form, function, and character. Offering a curated collection of distinctive pieces—from jewelry to home decor—the store showcases the work of both Canadian and international designers.
Snacking
L’Amour du Pain has delighted customers with its delicious baked goods for over 20 years. The bakery follows traditional French recipes to create an authentic menu, while using Quebec-grown flours to reduce its environmental footprint and support local farmers. Among their most irresistible treats are the pistachio and raspberry croissants, both praised for their exquisite flavour and buttery layers. L’Amour du Pain’s location is beautifully situated inside Maison Pépin, facing the store’s botanical and plant collection.
Bookstore browsing
Old Montreal boasts some of the city’s most charming independent bookstores. Librairie Bertrand, established in 1952, is known for its extensive yet thoughtfully curated shelves, offering a bilingual selection that spans everything from literary classics to children’s books. A few blocks away, you can find Maktaba Bookshop, which opened in 2022. Named after the Arabic word for “library” and “bookstore,” it is a unique concept store that prides itself on its commitment to representation, stocking a diverse range of English books while also featuring an in-house boutique that sells vinyl records and exclusive artist-run merchandise. The space includes a sunny and inviting majlis area, a comfortable space where visitors can take off their winter boots, relax on the gorgeous carpet, and enjoy a book for up to 30 minutes.
Sipping
If you’ve ventured off campus in the dead of winter, you’ve earned a hot chocolate—and not just any. You deserve the best this freezing city has to offer. La Cave à Manger has mastered the art of rich, traditional hot chocolate, but if you’ve exhausted this classic drink, they also offer creative variations like pumpkin spice, matcha white chocolate, and even a bright purple ube. Regardless of the flavour, each cup is topped with a homemade marshmallow, brûléed right before your eyes for a perfect, caramelized finish.
