Place d'Armes
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Place d'Armes

4.6
·491k reviews·Montréal, Canada

Historic heart of Old Montreal, featuring a grand monument and gateway to the RÉSO Underground City.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Place d'Armes

Place d'Armes

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic heart of Old Montreal, featuring a grand monument and gateway to the RÉSO Underground City.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A beautiful historic square, perfect for photos and connecting to Montreal's underground world."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monument to Paul de Chomedey

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

Architectural Marvels

Surrounding Buildings

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

Vibrant Pedestrian Hub

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Montreal's Underground

Montreal's RÉSO Underground City connects over 60 buildings and 1,700 stores. It's a lifesaver for escaping weather extremes, linking major points like Place d'Armes. However, some find it confusing to navigate, and going above ground can sometimes be quicker. Reddit

Best Time to Experience Place d'Armes

While Place d'Armes is an outdoor square, consider visiting during pleasant weather for optimal enjoyment. Weekends and evenings might be busier with local events or tourists, so weekdays offer a more relaxed experience. Check local event listings for festivals or markets that might enhance your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Fall
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, potential events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

📸 Capture the Monument

The central monument is a key feature. Get your photos early or late to avoid crowds. :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

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!

reddit.com

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. Reddit

📸 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

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Historic monument
Beautiful architecture
Underground city access

What People Dislike

Confusing underground navigation
Can be crowded

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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

Place d'Armes is a great starting point for families exploring Old Montreal. The open square allows kids some space to move around, and the monument provides a visual point of interest. Consider a family-friendly walking tour that includes the square to make history engaging for younger ones. The nearby Pointe-à-Callière, Montreal Archaeology and History Complex is an excellent educational stop for families, offering interactive exhibits about the city's founding. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

As a public square, Place d'Armes is free to visit, making it an ideal budget-friendly attraction. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the square, or seek out more affordable cafes and bakeries on the side streets of Old Montreal rather than the prime tourist spots. Utilize the RÉSO Underground City for free, weather-proof transit between attractions. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Place d'Armes offers fantastic photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hours. The monument to Paul de Chomedey is a striking subject, and the surrounding historic architecture, including the Notre-Dame Basilica, provides a rich backdrop. Experiment with different angles to capture the grandeur of the square and its surroundings. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Place d'Armes

Place d'Armes holds a significant place in Montreal's history as the city's original public square. It was established in 1672 and named after the military parade ground it once served. The square is dominated by the impressive monument to Paul de Chomedey, Sieur de Maisonneuve, the founder of Montreal, erected in 1895. This monument symbolizes the city's origins and its early struggles and triumphs. The surrounding architecture, including the Notre-Dame Basilica and the New York Life Insurance Building, tells a story of Montreal's development from a colonial outpost to a major metropolis. Reddit

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

Place d'Armes is a crucial node in Montreal's vast RÉSO Underground City, a network of tunnels connecting over 60 buildings and 1,700 stores across 33 km. This subterranean world is a lifesaver, especially during Montreal's harsh winters and hot summers, allowing residents and tourists to navigate the city center without braving the elements. Reddit

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. Reddit 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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