Welcome to the ultimate guide to Montreal’s vibrant and diverse nightlife scene. As a city known for its European flair, rich history, and lively culture, Montreal is a must-visit destination for party-goers and night owls alike. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best bars, clubs, and venues that Montreal has to offer, from trendy cocktail bars to underground dance clubs and everything in between.
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a casual drink with friends, or experience the city’s unique cultural offerings, Montreal has something for everyone. So get ready to explore the city’s vibrant and exciting nightlife scene with our 2023 Montreal Nightlife & Party Guide.
Where to party in Montreal?
Montreal is known for its vibrant nightlife with plenty of clubs, bars, and live music venues, with nods to its history as a red-light district. It is considered the party capital of Canada, with a great atmosphere and an after-hours scene to explore. The city’s bars are especially noteworthy for their DJ lineups and the fact that the legal drinking age is 18 or older.
No matter when you visit, the nightlife in Montreal is sure to impress you. Montreal is known for its lively party culture, and its club scene reflects that reputation. With many different venues and styles to choose from, you’ll have plenty of options for experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Montreal is known for its vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with a variety of neighborhoods and venues to suit any taste or preference. Here are some of the top places to party in Montreal:
Montreal has a reputation for being a safe city, but it’s still important to take precautions when navigating the nightlife scene. Here are some safety tips and advice to ensure you have a fun and safe night out in Montreal:
Stay in well-lit, populated areas: Stick to busy areas and avoid isolated or dimly-lit streets, especially late at night. If possible, travel with a group of friends or take a taxi or ride-sharing service.
Keep an eye on your belongings: Always keep an eye on your purse, wallet, and phone, especially in crowded areas like bars and clubs. Consider using a cross-body bag or a wallet on a chain to keep your belongings secure.
Be aware of your surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something feels off or you feel uncomfortable, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and leave the area.
Know your transportation options: Montreal has a variety of transportation options, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transportation. Be sure to plan ahead and know how you’ll get home before heading out for the night.
By following these safety tips and staying aware of your surroundings, you can have a fun and enjoyable night out in Montreal while keeping yourself and your belongings safe.
What is the cost of partying in Montreal?
The cost of partying in Montreal can vary depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some estimates of the average costs you can expect to encounter when partying in Montreal:
- A pint of beer: CAD 5-15
- A glass of wine: CAD 5-15
- A cocktail: CAD 10-20
- A fast food meal: CAD 3-13
- Transportation: CAD 5-25
Overall, partying in Montreal can be affordable or expensive, depending on your preferences and budget. It’s important to plan ahead and budget accordingly to ensure you have a fun and stress-free night out in this vibrant city.
Top Bars to Visit in Montreal
Montreal is home to a vibrant and diverse bar scene, with a variety of options to suit any taste or preference. Here are some of the top bars to visit in Montreal:
Atwater Cocktail Club
Located in the trendy Saint-Henri neighborhood, this speakeasy-style bar is known for its creative cocktails and cozy atmosphere.
Big in Japan
Tucked away in a hidden alley in the Plateau neighborhood, Big in Japan is a popular spot for its impressive selection of Japanese whiskeys and its stylish, minimalist decor.
Le Mal Nécessaire
This tropical-themed bar in the heart of the Gay Village is known for its inventive cocktails, lively atmosphere, and regular DJ nights.
Dieu du Ciel!
This popular microbrewery in the Mile End neighborhood is known for its excellent selection of craft beers, including its famous Peche Mortel imperial stout.
Furco
Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, Furco is a stylish and upscale bar known for its inventive cocktails, impressive wine list, and trendy atmosphere.
La Distillerie No. 1
With several locations throughout the city, La Distillerie is a popular spot for its creative and affordable cocktails, fun atmosphere, and playful decor.
The Coldroom
This hidden speakeasy in Old Montreal is accessed through a secret entrance and features a cozy and intimate atmosphere, creative cocktails, and a rotating menu of small plates.
Baldwin Barmacie
Located in the trendy Plateau neighborhood, Baldwin Barmacie is a cozy and welcoming spot known for its creative cocktails, friendly bartenders, and laid-back atmosphere.
These are just a few more of the many bars worth checking out in Montreal. Whether you’re looking for a classic cocktail bar, a trendy hangout, or a cozy neighborhood spot, Montreal has something to offer for every taste and budget.
Rooftop Bars in Montreal
Montreal has several great rooftop bars where you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline while sipping on a refreshing cocktail. Here are some of the top rooftop bars to check out in Montreal:
Terrasse sur l’Auberge
Located on the rooftop of the Auberge du Vieux-Port hotel, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Montreal skyline and the Old Port. It’s a popular spot for its chic atmosphere, creative cocktails, and small plates.
Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel
This rooftop bar on the 12th floor of the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel offers panoramic views of the city and a trendy atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for its inventive cocktails and live music.
William Gray Rooftop
Located in the trendy Old Montreal neighborhood, the William Gray Rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city and a stylish, upscale atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for its creative cocktails and small plates.
These are just a few of the top rooftop bars to check out in Montreal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a sunset cocktail or a trendy rooftop party, Montreal has plenty of options to choose from.
Top Gay Bars in Montreal
Montreal is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, and the city has several excellent gay bars that offer a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Here are some of the top gay bars to check out in Montreal:
Sky Complex
This multi-level gay club is one of the largest in North America and features a dance floor, a rooftop terrace, and several bars. It’s a popular spot for its lively atmosphere and regular drag shows.
Bar Le Ritz PDB
Located in the trendy Mile End neighborhood, Bar Le Ritz PDB is a cozy and welcoming spot known for its affordable drinks, laid-back atmosphere, and regular live music shows.
Le Stud
This popular gay bar in the Gay Village is known for its friendly staff, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot to meet new people and dance the night away.
Cabaret Mado
This popular drag bar in the Gay Village is known for its spectacular shows, talented performers, and lively atmosphere. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience Montreal’s drag scene.
These are just a few of the many great gay bars to check out in Montreal. Whether you’re looking for a dance party, a laid-back spot to grab a drink, or a spectacular drag show, Montreal’s gay bars have something to offer for everyone.
Montreal Nightlife Summary
The blog offers a comprehensive guide to Montreal’s nightlife, covering everything from bars and pubs to clubs and festivals. It highlights some of the city’s most popular areas for nightlife, including the Plateau, Mile End, and Old Montreal.
The guide suggests starting the night with a cocktail or craft beer at one of Montreal’s many trendy bars, such as Le 4e Mur or The Coldroom. It also recommends exploring the Plateau’s lively nightlife scene, with its eclectic mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
For those looking to dance the night away, the guide suggests checking out some of Montreal’s top nightclubs, such as Stereo or New City Gas. It also highlights some of the city’s popular music festivals, including the Montreal Jazz Festival and Osheaga.
The guide offers practical tips for enjoying Montreal’s nightlife, such as staying safe, taking advantage of public transportation, and dressing appropriately for different venues. Overall, it provides a comprehensive and up-to-date guide to Montreal’s exciting nightlife scene in 2023.
