
Place d'Armes
Historic heart of Old Montreal, featuring a grand monument and gateway to the RÉSO Underground City.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Place d'Armes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic heart of Old Montreal, featuring a grand monument and gateway to the RÉSO Underground City.
"A beautiful historic square, perfect for photos and connecting to Montreal's underground world."

🚶♀️ Explore the Underground
Connect to the RÉSO Underground City for weather-proof travel. It links many buildings, including near Place d'Armes.
📸 Capture the Monument
The central monument is a key feature. Get your photos early or late to avoid crowds. :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monument to Paul de Chomedey
Center of Place d'Armes
The iconic monument honoring the city's founder, a central point of interest and a great photo op.

Architectural Marvels
Surrounding Buildings
Admire the stunning historic architecture of the buildings that frame the square, showcasing Montreal's rich past.

Vibrant Pedestrian Hub
The Square Itself
Experience the lively atmosphere of this central gathering spot, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city's energy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Montreal's Underground
Best Time to Experience Place d'Armes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bars/Restaurants close to Place-d'Armes
🚶♀️ Explore the Underground
Connect to the RÉSO Underground City for weather-proof travel. It links many buildings, including near Place d'Armes.
📸 Capture the Monument
The central monument is a key feature. Get your photos early or late to avoid crowds. :camerawithflash:
In case you didn’t know (many Montrealers don’t), RÉSO Underground City covers 33 km and connects 1,700+ stores and 60+ buildings. You can walk from Peel→McGill→Bonaventure→Square-Victoria→Place-d'Armes→Place-des-Arts and back—perfect to escape the cold, heat, or rain. It’s a lifesaver!
Gotham City building at Place D Armes
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll likely be doing a lot of walking, especially if exploring the surrounding Old Montreal area. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Use Navigation Apps
While charming, navigating Montreal can be tricky. Have a map app handy for both above and underground. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Underground
Connect to the RÉSO Underground City for weather-proof travel. It links many buildings, including near Place d'Armes.
📸 Capture the Monument
The central monument is a key feature. Get your photos early or late to avoid crowds. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll likely be doing a lot of walking, especially if exploring the surrounding Old Montreal area. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Use Navigation Apps
While charming, navigating Montreal can be tricky. Have a map app handy for both above and underground. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Place d'Armes is a historically significant and visually appealing public square in Old Montreal, praised for its central monument and surrounding architecture. Visitors appreciate its role as a gateway to the RÉSO Underground City and its vibrant atmosphere. Some find the underground navigation challenging, and like many tourist hubs, dining options can be pricey.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Place d'Armes is easily accessible via public transport. The Montreal Metro's Place-d'Armes station (Orange Line) is directly connected to the square via the RÉSO Underground City.
Several bus routes also stop nearby. If driving, there are parking garages in the vicinity, though they can be pricey.Yes, Place d'Armes is a key access point to Montreal's extensive RÉSO Underground City. This network allows you to travel between many buildings and metro stations without going outside, which is ideal in harsh weather.
Absolutely! Place d'Armes is situated in the heart of Old Montreal, making it a central point for exploring the historic district on foot. Many attractions are within easy walking distance.
Walking is highly recommended for Place d'Armes and Old Montreal to fully appreciate the historic architecture and atmosphere. For longer distances, the Metro is efficient, and taxis or ride-sharing services are readily available.
Yes, Montreal has a growing network of bike lanes. You can cycle to Place d'Armes and utilize BIXI bike-sharing stations in the area for convenient short-term rentals.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Place d'Armes is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. There are no admission fees.
As an outdoor public space, Place d'Armes is accessible 24/7. However, surrounding businesses and attractions will have their own operating hours.
Many walking tours of Old Montreal include Place d'Armes as a significant stop. These tours often provide historical context and insights into the surrounding architecture.
The monument to Paul de Chomedey in Place d'Armes is a public art installation and can be viewed freely as part of your visit to the square.
Yes, there are several hotels located very close to Place d'Armes, including options like 'Hotel Place d'Armes' and 'Le Place d'Armes Hotel & Suites'. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
📸 📸 Photography
The central monument to Paul de Chomedey offers a striking focal point. For wider shots, position yourself across the square to capture the monument with the surrounding historic buildings, like the Notre-Dame Basilica, in the background.
Yes, photography is generally allowed in Place d'Armes for personal use. Be mindful of any private events or specific restrictions on commercial photography.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but it's also when the square is most lively. Consider early mornings for fewer crowds and softer light.
Drone usage in urban areas like Old Montreal is often restricted due to regulations and safety concerns. It's best to check with local authorities or Transport Canada before attempting to fly a drone.
Look for the intricate stonework on the surrounding buildings, the details of the monument itself, and the charming street lamps. The contrast between old and new architecture in the vicinity is also photogenic.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Place d'Armes is surrounded by numerous dining options in Old Montreal, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Many offer terraces for outdoor dining during warmer months.
You'll find a diverse culinary scene, including traditional Quebecois dishes, French cuisine, Italian, and international options. Many establishments focus on local, seasonal ingredients.
While Place d'Armes itself is primarily a square, there are several cafes and coffee shops located on the streets immediately surrounding it, perfect for a quick break.
Dining prices in Old Montreal can vary. While some high-end restaurants cater to tourists, you can also find more affordable cafes and bistros if you explore a bit.
There are bars and restaurants with patios around Place d'Armes where you can enjoy a drink. Some hotels in the area also have bars accessible to the public.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Place d'Armes
Historically, Place d'Armes was a central hub for civic life, commerce, and public gatherings. It has witnessed centuries of Montreal's evolution, from its early French colonial days through British rule and into its modern era. The square's design, with its benches and open space, invites visitors to pause and reflect on the layers of history beneath their feet. It remains a vital part of the Old Montreal landscape, connecting the past with the present.
Connecting with the RÉSO Underground City
From Place d'Armes, you can seamlessly enter the RÉSO and travel to various points, including other major metro stations like Place-des-Arts and Square-Victoria. While incredibly convenient, some visitors find the network confusing to navigate, so having a map or using a navigation app is highly recommended. The underground city offers a unique urban experience, transforming the way people move through the downtown core and providing access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
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