2 Day Itinerary in Montreal With Kids (What Not to Miss)
We’ve been to Montreal a few times now, and it’s a city we keep coming back to. There’s so much to see and do for families.
It sits right on the St. Lawrence River, it’s easy to explore, and there’s always something new to see or do. Our favourite part will always be Old Montreal, with its cobblestone streets, history, and old-world charm that makes it feel like you’ve stepped into Europe.
Whether it’s your first visit or your second or third, Montreal will have a way of making you love it and this Montreal itinerary will show you it’s a great amount of time to spend in the city!
Your Perfect 2 Days in Montreal With Kids
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, and I may receive a small commission. Thank you for your support.
Day 1: Old Montreal and Old Port
Explore Old Montreal
Day one is all about Old Montreal. This area is so beautiful and one of my favourite spots in the city.
You’ll want to slow down and just wander here for a while. The cobblestone streets, historic buildings, outdoor patios, and little shops make it such a fun place to explore with kids. It really does feel a little bit like stepping into Europe.
For a guided walking tour around Old Montreal, check out The Original Old Montréal Walking Tour by Guidatour.
Visit Notre-Dame Basilica
A visit to Notre-Dame Basilica is a must during your 2 days in Montreal. Built in 1865, this beautiful church is stunning both inside and out.
There is an admission fee to go inside, but it is absolutely worth it. The detailed interior, glowing blue ceilings, and beautiful architecture make it one of those places that really leaves an impression.
Spend Time in Place Jacques-Cartier
Next, make your way over to Place Jacques-Cartier, a large pedestrian-only square right in the heart of Old Montreal.
This area feels especially lively in the summer. Street performers, artists, musicians, and outdoor patios give it such a fun atmosphere for families.
In the evenings, it becomes even more vibrant, and it’s a really fun spot to stop and watch the entertainment with kids.
Wander Rue Saint-Paul
From there, wander down Rue Saint-Paul, one of the oldest and most charming streets in Montreal.
This is where you’ll find souvenir shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants lining the street. It’s a great place to take your time, pop into a few shops, and grab lunch along the way.
If you have older kids who are up for something more exciting, check out the Haunted Old Montreal Tour, given by a professional actor and storyteller.
Head to the Old Port
After lunch, make your way over to the Old Port.
There are so many family-friendly activities here that you could easily spend the rest of the afternoon exploring. You’ll find things like a giant maze, La Grande Roue Ferris wheel, mini golf, Montreal Zipline Adventure, a pirate ship playground called Voiles en Voiles, and even the science centre.
You definitely will not have time to do everything, so I would recommend picking a couple of favourites and enjoying those instead of trying to rush through it all.
One thing that really stands out to me here is SOS Labyrinthe. I remember visiting it when I was younger and thinking it felt absolutely massive. Coming back years later, it has grown so much over time.
It’s one of those experiences that sticks with you, and now it’s something I really want my own kids to experience too.
Dinner in Old Montreal
For dinner, we headed back toward Rue Saint-Paul and ate at 3 Brasseurs Saint-Paul.
We really liked it for families. The atmosphere is fun and relaxed, there’s lots of seating, and they have a kids menu, which always makes things easier after a busy day of sightseeing.
Day 2: Mount Royal and Parc Jean-Drapeau
Start at Mount Royal
Day two is all about spending time outside and enjoying some of Montreal’s beautiful green spaces.
Start your morning at Mount Royal. If you are driving, there are several parking areas near the top, which makes it pretty easy for families.
-Kondiaronk Belvedere
Your first stop should be the Kondiaronk Belvedere lookout near the Mount Royal Chalet.
The view over the city from here is incredible and I think one of the best views in Montreal. It’s worth taking your time here to enjoy the scenery and snap a few family photos.
You can also head inside the chalet for a quick snack or break before exploring more of the park.
-Explore the Trails and Cafe
Next, head over to Beaver Lake and spend some time walking the trails around the area.
In the summer, there are paddle boat rentals if your family wants to get out on the water. Nearby, you’ll also find Beaver Pavilion, which is helpful for bathroom breaks and grabbing lunch or snacks.
Families with younger kids will also love Salamander Park, which has a playground and splash pad.
This whole area really gives you a feel for Montreal beyond the busy downtown streets.
Visit Parc Jean-Drapeau
After Mount Royal, make your way to Parc Jean-Drapeau, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
Located on islands just outside the city, this park feels completely different from downtown Montreal and is such a unique place to explore.
-Walk the Park and Enjoy the Views
One of the best things to do here is simply walk around and enjoy the scenery.
There are gardens, art installations, walking paths, and unique features throughout the park. Some of the garden structures even reminded us of scenes from the movie Moana!
It’s such a peaceful place to spend an afternoon, especially after the busier feel of Old Montreal.
-Summer Activities at the Park
During the summer, there’s even more to do.
You’ll find a beach, a large outdoor pool, and rentals like pedal boats and canoes. It’s an amazing place to relax for the afternoon while still giving kids plenty to do.
Where to Stay in Montreal
Stay Near Old Montreal or Old Port
For this 2 day Montreal itinerary, I would stay somewhere close to Old Montreal or Downtown Montreal for easy access around the city.
It just makes day one so much easier when you can walk to everything, especially with kids.
Downtown Montreal Options for Families:
Hotel Bonaventure Montreal: The most beautiful outdoor space and pool. Parking and Breakfast available. Super family friendly.
Hotel Les Suites Labelle: walking distance to Old Montreal and Old port. Parking available. Large rooms. Kitchenette.
L’Appartement Hotel: Pool. Breakfast included. In-room kitchen. Walking distance to many attractions.
Hyatt Place Montreal – Downtown: Swimming pool. Parking available. Walking distance to attractions.
Old Montreal Options for Families:
AC Hotel by Marriott Old Montreal: In the heart of Old Montreal. Parking and breakfast available.
Le Westin Montréal: Indoor pool. 3 minute walk to Notre Dame.
How to get around Montreal
One of the nice things about spending 2 days in Montreal is that you really do not need a car for most of your trip.
For day one in Old Montreal and the Old Port, everything is very walkable. If you have a car, I would recommend parking it at your hotel and exploring the area on foot for the day. That’s also why I think it’s worth staying somewhere within walking distance of Old Montreal if possible.
For day two, when visiting Mount Royal and Parc Jean-Drapeau, having a car does make things easier. Both spots have parking available, and driving between them is pretty straightforward.
If you are visiting Montreal without a car, the city’s public transportation system is excellent. The metro and buses are easy to use, and a great way to get around the city. You can purchase single ride tickets or a 24 hour transit pass depending on your plans.
Another fun option for first-time visitors is the Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour. It stops at many of the major attractions around Montreal while also giving you an audio tour of the city along the way.
If you prefer having everything planned out for you, a guided day tour can also be a great option. Companies like Viator offer several Montreal sightseeing tours that include transportation and local guides who share the history and stories behind the city’s most popular spots.
Final Thoughts
Montreal feels so easy to love. Between the historic streets of Old Montreal, the outdoor spaces around Mount Royal, and all the fun activities along the Old Port, there is such a good mix of sightseeing, adventure, and time to simply enjoy being together as a family.
We’ve visited Montreal several times over the years, and it’s a city we always look forward to coming back to. It has so much character, amazing food, and enough family friendly activities to keep both kids and adults happy.
If you are planning a 2 day itinerary in Montreal with kids, I hope this itinerary helps make your trip feel easier to plan and gives you a realistic guide for what to see and do without feeling rushed.
Even with just a weekend in Montreal, you can experience so much of what makes this city such a fun family destination.
You may also be interested in Things to do in Quebec City with Kids
