10 Best Neighborhoods In Montreal For Students

Planning a stay in Montreal? You're in for a treat as the city presents an array of diverse and exciting neighbourhoods to choose from. Montreal has everything, whether you're seeking a vibrant urban experience or a serene residential enclave. If you're a student, professional, or family, this guide will help you discover the 10 best neighbourhoods in Montreal, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience in this dynamic Canadian city.

About Montreal

Montreal, Canada, is a popular destination for international students and offers some of the best neighbourhoods to stay in. The best neighbourhoods in Montreal, such as Plateau-Mont-Royal, Mile End, and Villeray, provide a diverse and vibrant living experience. These areas are known for their cultural richness, with a mix of art galleries, independent boutiques, and trendy cafes. With their unique charm and close-knit communities, they rank among the best areas to stay in Montreal. The city is an excellent place for international students to live and study. With renowned universities like McGill University and Université de Montréal, the city offers the finest education system and a wide range of academic programs. International students will find these areas to be the best student accommodation in Montreal, as they offer a blend of affordable housing, proximity to universities, and a lively atmosphere.

10 Best Areas to Stay in Montreal

Montreal has it all. From the trendy and artistic vibes of Plateau-Mont-Royal and Mile End to the upscale elegance of Outremont and Golden Square Mile, each area has its own unique charm. Let's look at the 10 best areas to stay in Montreal:

1. Ville-Marie

Downtown Montreal's Ville-Marie district is a fantastic option for those seeking an urban lifestyle. It's often considered the best neighbourhood in Montreal for its bustling atmosphere and proximity to an array of amenities. With a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, museums, and entertainment venues, residents of Ville-Marie enjoy a dynamic and cosmopolitan lifestyle. The historic Old Montreal district is also within reach, adding charm and cultural richness to the neighbourhood. 

Facilities nearby:

Commuting: Berri-UQAM Station.
Education: Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)
Art: Places des Arts and Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
Leisure: Parc La Fontaine.
Shopping: Sainte-Catherine Street.

2. Plateau-Mont-Royal

Filled with quirky shops, colourful buildings with twirling iron staircases, and third-wave coffee shops, Plateau-Mont-Royal is one of the best neighbourhoods in Montreal, offering a vibrant and bohemian atmosphere. Its charming tree-lined streets and a mix of cultures make it a favourite among artists, young professionals, and families. The area is filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a lively and dynamic place to live.

Facilities nearby:

Commuting: Sherbrooke Station.
Education: Collège de Maisonneuve.
Art: Galerie D'Este, le Livart, and Station 16 Gallery
Leisure: Parc Lafontaine.
Shopping: Avenue Mont-Royal

3. Quartier Latin

The renowned Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) lies nearby in the thriving and energetic Quartier Latin neighbourhood. Several institutions of higher learning are located in the Latin Quarter, which is popular among students for its vibrant ambiance, bistros, and student life. It the best neighbourhood in Montreal for students looking for a dynamic and intellectual environment due to its vibrant student body and cultural activities. The region has a vibrant and motivating environment thanks to the abundance of chic cafes, inviting bookstores, and theatres. Student housing options are available, specifically tailored to university students and young professionals like Harrington Housing Sherbrooke, Montreal.

Facilities nearby:

Commuting: Berri-UQAM Station.
Education: UQAM (Université du Québec à Montréal).
Art: The entire locality has bohemian atmosphere.
Leisure: Parc Émilie-Gamelin.
Shopping: Saint-Denis Street.

4. Mile End

This quaint yet contemporary quarter, teamed with multiculturalism and known for its hip and artistic vibe, Mile End is considered one of the best areas to stay in Montreal. This neighbourhood in Montreal boasts a thriving music scene, independent boutiques, and unique cafes. It's a melting pot of cultures, attracting a diverse community. With beautiful parks and iconic landmarks like the iconic St. Viateur Bagel, Mile End offers an exciting and creative living experience.

Facilities nearby:

Commuting: Rosemont Station.
Education: Collège International Marie de France and Dawson College.
Art: Casa del Popolo and MainLine Theatre.
Leisure: Parc Outremont and Parc St-Viateur.
Shopping: Avenue du Mont-Royal and Saint-Laurent Boulevard

5. Golden Square Mile

The Golden Square Mile is a historic neighbourhood in Montreal that was once the home of the city’s elite. It still maintains its prestigious charm with beautiful mansions and upscale residences. The neighbourhood offers a refined living experience, with luxury boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. It's ideal for those seeking an exclusive and sophisticated lifestyle in Montreal. 

Facilities nearby:

Commuting: Peel Station.
Education: McGill University.
Art: Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
Leisure: Mount Royal Park.
Shopping: Sherbrooke Street.

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6. Villeray

Villeray is often cited as one of the best neighbourhoods in Montreal, particularly for families. It offers a mix of residential and industrial areas, providing a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. This neighbourhood in Montreal is known for its family-friendly environment with numerous parks, schools, and community centres. Villeray also boasts a range of restaurants and local shops, ensuring convenient amenities within reach.

Facilities nearby:

Commuting: Jarry Station.
Education: Collège Mont-Royal.
Art: Théâtre Outremont and Librairie du Square.
Leisure: Jarry Park.
Shopping: Plaza Saint-Hubert and Jean-Talon Market.

7. International District

Situated in the heart of downtown Montreal, the International District is a vibrant and multicultural neighbourhood. It's characterised by its diverse population, offering a blend of international cuisines, shops, and markets. The area is home to numerous corporate offices, making it a convenient choice for professionals. With its bustling energy and proximity to major attractions, the International District provides a lively urban living experience. 

Facilities nearby:

Commuting: Place-d'Armes Station
Education: McGill University and Concordia University
Art: Montréal, Quartier des spectacles
Leisure: Place de la Paix and Vauquelin Square
Shopping: Complexe Desjardins and Sainte-Catherine Street

8. Outremont

Considered one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in Montreal, Outremont is an excellent choice for those looking for an upscale living environment. This residential area features elegant homes, quiet streets, and beautiful parks, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. With a strong French influence, Outremont is home to the prestigious Université de Montréal and offers a sophisticated and refined lifestyle.

Facilities nearby:

Commuting: Outremont Station.
Education: Université de Montréal's Outremont.
Art: Musée des maîtres et artisans du Québec and Library Pratt.
Leisure: Pratt Park and Saint-Viateur Park.
Shopping: Avenue Van Horne and Avenue Bernard

9. Milton Parc

Located near the prestigious McGill University, Milton Parc is one of the best neighborhoods in Montreal among students and young professionals. It offers a lively and energetic atmosphere with an abundance of cafes, bars, and shops. The neighbourhood in Montreal is known for its street art, charming parks, and proximity to the iconic Mount Royal Park. Milton Parc provides a dynamic living experience with a mix of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities. There are many student accommodations near Milton Parc that offer comfortable beds, spacious work areas, ample storage facilities, and more, ensuring a student-centric living experience.

Facilities nearby:

Commuting: McGill Station
Education: McGill University and UQAM (Université du Québec à Montréal).
Art: The neighbourhood is filled with theatres, art galleries, and community events.
Leisure: Parc du Mont-Royal 
Shopping: Prince Arthur Street and Avenue de Pins.

10. Griffintown

As one of the fastest-growing neighbourhoods in Montreal, Griffintown has become a sought-after area to live in. Griffintown had developed into an industrial centre by the middle of the 19th century and was situated in the heart of the industrial revolution. It is situated adjacent to the downtown core and offers a blend of historic buildings and modern condos. Griffintown boasts a vibrant dining scene with trendy bars and is particularly popular among young professionals. Its close proximity to the city centre ensures easy access to various amenities and entertainment options.

Facilities nearby:

Commuting: Bonaventure Station
Education: École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS) and LaSalle College.
Art: The entire Lachine Canal.
Leisure: Sir-George-Étienne-Cartier Square and Bassin Peel.
Shopping: Griffintown Square, Rue Wellington and Quartier Bonaventure.

For international students, the 10 best neighbourhoods in Montreal, Canada, offer a welcoming and enriching environment. From the vibrant, student-friendly atmosphere of Quartier Latin and Milton Parc to the proximity to prestigious universities like McGill and UQAM, these neighbourhoods in Montreal provide a conducive setting for academic pursuits. These areas provide an ideal backdrop for international students to thrive academically and culturally. 

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