You enter Montréal’s underground city via Cours Mont-Royal with every intention of getting all your shopping done in one fell swoop. Exclusive imports, prestigious brands, designer labels… the sheer scope of temptations is absolutely dizzying. For a split second, you consider popping into a spa for a little pampering, but great finds await, so you’re off to Place Montréal Trust first. 

Glancing around, a sweet little boutique next to the Eaton Centre  catches your eye and you stop for a peek before grabbing lunch. By the time you leave the food court, shopping mode is in full force.
 
With time starting to run out, it’s a toss-up between Promenades de la Cathédrale and Place Ville Marie. Finally, you decide on The Bay, whose history is closely linked to that of the country. When the day’s done, you plop your bags down and prop your feet up… for a well-deserved break!

Today, you’re in the mood to get out and there’s no better place for a stroll than Saint-Laurent Boulevard. You make your way along the Main, revelling in the eclectic succession of contemporary fashion boutiques, furniture design stores, delicatessens featuring the finest in eastern European fare, and yes... even a shop where they cut headstones!

Turning east, you come upon Saint-Denis Street with its countless eateries, boutiques dedicated to the art of living and Québec fashion houses… all set against a backdrop of quaint, Victorian-style architecture.

A short distance away, on Mont-Royal Avenue, you’ll find a bounty of friperies (second-hand clothing), book and music stores, each hiding great pre-owned treasures. Break up your day with a stop at a local bar, and enjoy the colourful crowds and the unique Plateau ambiance.

If you’re up for some chic window shopping, head north to stylish  Laurier Avenue West. After feasting your eyes on gallery art and boutiques brimming with exclusive imports, savour a delicious café au lait in a French-style bistro.