Old Montreal or newer area
 

Where do you think is the better area to stay in? I am interested in Old Montreal. I just want to make sure that it is the better place to stay.

Please give reccomendations. I have a hotel in Old Montreal...but I am flexible.

The answer is "it depends on what you like". We have always stayed in the downtown area. The old town certainly has its charms and is worth visiting but I have never wanted to "live" there while staying Montreal. For me the main problem is that the old town is not particularly well conected to the rest of the city so it takes longer to get around if you what to see other parts of the city. All that said for some people the old town is the most distinctive part of Montreal and is a primary reason for being there and naturally want to maximize time there.

I agree with Gavin, I like Old Montreal, but I would not stay there. Downtown would be a better area to stay.

I agree with the above posters. Old Montreal is very charming, but can be seen in a day, and it's a bit of a hassle to get to the rest of the city form here. For a short stay, the Old City would be fine, for more than a few days, choose the downtown or St. Denis/Plateu areas.

Thanks for the advice. Now I am back to square one as far as where to stay.

Thanks for the help.

We will be in Montreal in Oct and are also interested in a place to stay. I have booked a B&B in Old Montreal and am now reconsidering. I am wondering, how hard is it to get to other parts of Montreal? Are there some B&B's someone could recommend in the downtown area?

For a couple of days, on a vacation rather than a business trip, and especially if it was supposed to be a romantic visit, Old Montreal wins, hands down.

If you're going on a fashions buying trip, or to see a specific show at the art gallery, or are in your early 20s and want loud bars, stay downtown.

BAK

What is the situation about getting around from Old MOntreal?

You can leave Old Montreal in a horse drawn carriage, walk a little way to a subway (Metro) station, walk longer and get downtown, or take a taxi.

It's an easy walk from central Montreal to Old Montreal, on a nice day. It gets longer in the wintger, though.

BAK

The thing with the Old City is that it's several blocks uphill to the nearest metro stop. Not a showstopper, but can be a hassle, especially on a cold icy, winter day. Of course, you could take a cab. We actually walk from the downtown to the Old City in nice weather, it's about a 10-15 minute walk.

Thanks everyone for the help. NOw, do you have favorite places to eat that are nice but not too pricey? We will be in the area mid October before a cruise. We plan to fly in 3 days early. Do you think that is about the right amount of time?