Stopping in Montreal for 2 days on the way to France. What would be some not to miss things to see and do? Also, any restaurant recommendations? We are staying in Plateau. Couple in 60’s but young at heart. thanks!

My favorite thing to do is climb the Grand Staircase Of Mont Royal. You start at the intersection of Peel and Pine. With stopping and taking lots of photos it's probably 15 minutes to go up. Then once you are at the top there is a balcony with a spectacular view and a cafe. If the weather is good, you will not be alone. It is very much a locals thing to do and the Quebecois bring their visitors here. I highly recommend getting an Uber or Lyft to the start as there is already quite a serious uphill from the nearest metro station even before you begin the ascent.

My favorite meal recently was at Cochon Dingue, a Quebecois restaurant. Poutine and grilled cheese sandwiches (a local specialty with caramelized onion and bacon) were excellent.

Thanks! Grand Staircase sounds great. What about more cutting edge kind of restaurants?

It's been a while since I was last in Montreal, but if I wanted cutting edge, I'd check out what Michelin has rated and pick from that list: Montreal MICHELIN Restaurants - The MICHELIN Guide

For me, you're already staying in a must: the Plateau. Strolling to Old Montreal and around Downtown are also areas to explore over the span of two days, but so much of Montreal is about not hitting a bunch of must-see attractions but just exploring and taking in the vibe, sights, and sounds. And definitely the food!

No trip to Montreal is complete without a fresh-out-of-the-oven sesame or poppyseed Montreal style bagel from St.Viateur. They're not meant to be eaten like sandwich bread like New York bagels, but more like soft pretzels, as snacks. They're dense, chewy and sweeter (as they're boiled in honey water) and are meant to be eaten fresh, immediately upon purchase. Do not opt for a dessert version, go with the originals.

Parc Mont Royal aka: "the mountain" is always a must to see the panoramic view over the city. Atwater Market is also great is you love food markets. If you want to learn about the social history of Montreal, the McCord Museum is great.

Have you looked at the Montreal Tourism blog? They do a great job at describing all the great things to see in Montreal: Montréal works for you | Tourisme Montréal

The Plateau is for the young'ens alright.

Must eats in the Plateau (near Lafontaine Park) - La Banquise (poutine)
.........................................and across the street - Ma Poule Mouillée (bbq portugese chicken)

Thanks very much for the info!