We are taking a week to visit and I am trying to figure out whether we should stay downtown or in old Montreal. We do not have any specific sites to see- just a general overview of the city and a few good meals are all I need. If we love it, we will return another time for in-depth touring. We are planning on taking a bus or train to see Quebec City (have res there already at Courtyard) and possibly Ottawa. I saw that the Fairmont is over the train station. Is that the station for regional trains? Would it be advantageous?
Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Yes, there are trains from Central Station / Gare Centrale to Ottawa and Quebec City, if that's what you mean by regional.

The hotel is above the station, and there are escalator.

The Bonaventure Hilton is across the street, linked by tunnels, and is just about as close.

If you stay downtown, you'll go visit old Montreal. Visa versa, too.

One might argue that Old Montreal hotels are more romantic smaller and fewer features, though.

It really doesn't matter. You'll go b back and forth.

BAK

I like the Queen Elizabeth (Fairmont). I always stay there when I'm on business in Montreal. For some reason, I'm not so keen on the Hilton - it always reminds me of a bunker, although many of my co-workers like it.

It's an easy walk to Old Montreal from either hotel.

Hi wondering,

While the Queen E. does offer the convenience of being directly above the station I think you could get a better room for a better price if you shop around with other hotels. I find the Queen E. a tad outdated and overpriced....it is a nice hotel don't get me wrong.

As BAK mentioned Old Mtl vs downtown is not such an issue. As a native I would prefer staying in the downtown area as there is a little more going on...however Old Mtl is vibrant as well. I am more of a shopper also, and downtown is a shoppers paradise!!

Layla

p.s I forgot to mention that I like the Omni hotel....great location and normally expedia has pretty good rates for that hotel.


Layla

Thank you all! I guess I will let value guide me. I know Priceline has been showing up with the Sheraton at an amazing price ($82usd bids). The Omni hasn't shown up there for a few months. I also found luxury link with a good price for Hotel XIXe. So it looks like we have many choices! There is also a pretty good deal on the QE from the MOntreal tourism board. Now the problem will be how to choose!! I am going to look at Expedia right now!!!!