The Best of Toronto and Montreal

Similar to New York, Toronto has a diverse mixture of residents and a unique cultural ambiance. For the best experience, organize your urban exploration by starting in The Annex neighbourhood and moving southward towards Queen St. West, eventually ending at the Toronto Islands. Toronto has an amazing culinary scene, so make sure to snack along the way! 

Activities: 

The Annex

The Annex is a mainly residential area located next to the University of Toronto, and is characterized by its tall trees and unique Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Known as a student neighbourhood, the Annex is full of reasonably priced restaurants and easily walkable streets. A central location of the neighbourhood is the Spadina-Bloor subway station (Walmer Road Exit), which is a great jumping off point from which to explore the neighbourhood. 

Harbord Village

Located two blocks south of the Annex is the quaint neighbourhood of Harbord Village. Speciality stores, cute cafes, and busy bicycle lanes line the main street. For a delicious lunch or coffee break head to Cafe CanCan, a popular french bistro with a beautiful interior and hidden garden. 

Kensington Market

 One of the most famous neighbourhoods in Toronto, Kensington Market is home to speciality grocers, eclectic shops, and various art installations. Known for its counterculture, Kensington is home to many street performers, local artists, and political activists. To best understand this neighbourhood’s unique vibe, take a stroll through the main streets of Augusta, Baldwin, and Kensington see some of the colourful graffiti and then head to one of the many alternative bookstores. 

Little Italy

 Located west of Kensington Market, Little Italy has become home to some of the best restaurants in Toronto. Bar Raval is one of the most popular dining options, offering Spanish tapas and an extensive selection of wine. Although there is only standing room inside, during the summer take a seat on the outdoor patio. 

Queen Street West

Hop on the Spadina Streetcar and head south towards another famous neighbourhood, Queen Street West. Initially recognized for its hipster culture and voted as one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods by Vogue magazine, Queen Street West has a distinct attitude all its own. Initially recognized for its innovative street fashion, the neighbourhood is also home to many clothing stores, restaurants, and Trinity Bellwoods Park. Although the neighbourhood has started to face gentrification over the past decade, much of its initial charm still remains. 

The Toronto Islands

 The Toronto Islands are a pleasant oasis located 20 minutes by ferry from Toronto’s downtown. Filled with quaint cottages, bike paths, beaches, restaurants, and water activities, visitors can take advantage of the islands’ relaxing atmosphere. I recommend exploring the islands by bicycle and then renting a kayak to view Toronto’s skyline by water. Visit on a weekday, as the ferry and Island attractions can become busy on the weekend with families. 

Art Gallery of Ontario

 One of the largest Art Museums in North America, the AGO is filled with permanent exhibitions of famous Canadian artists, as well as travelling art exhibitions. During my visit, I saw a wonderful travelling exhibition featuring some of the world’s most famous expressionist painters. After viewing the galleries, head to the architecturally impressive gallery cafe for some gelato. 

Restaurants

 Due to Toronto’s diverse demographics, there are a tremendous amount of restaurants offering both traditional and modern cuisine. Chefs from Toronto have started somewhat of a culinary movement, defined by experimental fusion. For some delicious and interesting dishes, I highly recommend Aloette, La Palma, Bar Buca, Skippa, La Banane, Bar Isabel, or St. Lawrence Market.

A culturally unique city in North America, Montreal is a blend of French ancestry and Canadian heritage. A strong arts scene, restaurant industry, and vibrant nightlife make Montreal the entertainment capital of Canada. Wander the picturesque neighbourhoods during the day and then head out at night for delicious cuisine and a live show. 

Activities: 

Old Montreal

Head to the neighbourhood of Old Montreal for a distinctive European feel. First built during the 17th century, the cobblestone streets are lined with excellent restaurants, French- Canadian designers, art galleries, and museums. The most famous attraction in Old Montreal is the Notre-Dame Basilica, which holds an immersive light show called AURA that highlights the immense architecture, stained glass, and murals inside the church. 

Mile End

Mile End is a laid back and trendy neighbourhood located in central Montreal. Once home to Canadian artists Arcade Fire and Grimes, the streets of Mile End are filled with workshops, studios, and galleries. One of the most popular tourist attractions are the famous bagel shops St Viateur Bagel or Fairmount Bagel, which both claim to have the best bagels in the city. In the evening, head to the popular venues Case del Popolo, Sala Rossa, or La Vitrola to watch some of Montreal’s most famous Indie bands.  

Plateau Mont-Royal

Plateau Mont-Royal is a student friendly neighbourhood characterized by its pleasant residential feel, along with busy bars, eateries, and cafes. For this reason Plateau Mont-Royal is a great destination to take a food tour, as a way of experiencing local gastronomy, along with the pretty parks and extensive murals. 

Green Alleys of Montreal

A grassroots movement by Montreal’s residents, the Green Alley project is an initiative that transforms back alleys into gardens more suited for play and cycling. So far there have been over 300 green alley projects across numerous neighbourhoods throughout the city. Keep an eye out for these “eco-quartiers” as you traverse about urban downtown. 

Best Restaurants

Due to its French heritage, Montreal offers distinctly unique cuisine and home to some of the best restaurants in Canada. Although poutine is one of the most famous dishes from this city, there are also a wide variety of traditional French, Jewish, Portuguese, and Middle Eastern restaurants. Some of the best options include Au Pied de Cochon, Joe Beef, Schwartz’s, La Banquise, L’Express, and Ma Poule Moulliee. 

Bota Bota Spa

Located in the Old Port of Montreal, Bota Bota is a floating spa located in a moored ferryboat. The spa contains saunas, steam baths, massages, treatments, and river swimming. There is also a restaurant called “The Porthole” that offers a bite to eat after your spa day.