Lea GagnonIt’s double the fun when you try the best couple activities in Montreal
If you and your partner are stuck in a Netflix-and-chill loop that’s starting to feel more ‘meh’ than magical, we’ve got good news – Montreal is like the unofficial capital of unforgettable couple activities.
From cobblestone streets that feel like a movie set to activities so offbeat you’ll laugh for weeks, this city is a date-night treasure chest.
We’ve tested our fair share of ideas here, and we’re sure you’ll find at least one new favourite way to spend time together.
Culinary delights
Indulge in chocolate at Juliette et Chocolat
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Location: Various locations in Montreal (1980 Rue Sauvé O & 196 Rue Jean-Talon E)
Contact: You may contact them here
Pricing: $
Juliette et Chocolat is a chocolate lover’s paradise. Juliette Brun (the brain behind it all) started it in 2003, and it’s become the spot for Montrealers with a sweet tooth.
The vibe is perfect for couples – low lights, comfy seats, and an atmosphere where you can hear each other talk.
Their menu is full of rich fondues for dipping everything in. I recommend trying their mouth-melting brownies and hot chocolates.
And the best part? Sharing is caring. Nothing brings a couple closer than battling over the last bite of a gooey brownie.
| Pro Tip: Go during off-peak hours (around 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM) to avoid the crowds and snag a corner for yourselves. |
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Location: Various locations in Montreal (St-Viateur O, Mont-Royal, Marche Esposito and more)
Contact: [email protected]
Pricing: $
You can’t go to Montreal without trying a real Montreal bagel. For couples, sharing one at St-Viateur Bagel Café is a rite of passage.
Since 1957, St-Viateur Bagel has been making bagels the old-fashioned way – hand-rolling and baking them in wood-fired ovens. The result is a truly unique taste.
For a classic experience, order ‘The Traditional’ bagel sandwich with smoked salmon and cream cheese. Or, do as the locals do and dip a warm sesame seed bagel straight into a pot of cream cheese.
| Pro Tip: They’re cash only, so make sure you have some bills on hand before you go. |
Have a coffee date at Crew Collective & Café
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Location: 360 Rue Saint-Jacques
Contact: +1 514-285-7095
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Pricing: $$
This place is housed in the old Royal Bank of Canada building in Old Montreal. And when we say ‘old,’ we mean old-school elegance.
Ceilings soar 15 meters high with brass details that probably haven’t been polished since the roaring twenties.
But the coffee? Always top-notch. Crew Collective & Café partners with local Montreal roaster Traffic Coffee, so you know it’s legit. Baristas who know their stuff will whip you up an espresso or a custom filter coffee blend.
It’s easily one of the most iconic working cafes in Montreal, blending a historic vibe with modern functionality. You’ll also find private booths and meeting rooms, perfect for some secluded conversation.
| Pro Tip: Pay attention to their seasonal coffees. They offer limited-time creations inspired by the current season. You might discover a unique flavour combo you won’t find anywhere else. |
Try molecular gastronomy at Le Mousso
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Location: 1025 Ontario St E
Contact: +1 438-384-7410
Operating hours:
- Thursday to Saturday – 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: $$$
If you and your partner are into adventurous eating, then Le Mousso is the place to be.
Chef Antonin Mousseau-Rivard opened this place in 2015, and it’s a true temple to molecular gastronomy. It’s food as art, food as science, and food as an experience.
Local, seasonal ingredients are transformed into edible masterpieces. You’ll get a tasting menu designed to take you on a journey, one mind-bending course at a time.
The place seats only about 30 people, which makes the experience feel exclusive and intimate. It’s perfect for a special occasion, or just because you want a meal that’s both delicious and totally unexpected.
| Pro Tip: This place is popular, and seats are limited. Book your reservation way in advance, so you don’t miss out. |
Outdoor adventures
Walk hand in hand through Parc Jean-Drapeau
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Location: Montreal, Quebec H3C 1A9
Contact: +1 514-872-6120
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Montreal’s got you covered with Parc Jean-Drapeau. This massive park spans two islands (Île Sainte-Hélène and Île Notre-Dame) and has everything you need for the perfect walk.
In fact, it’s often considered one of the best parks in Montreal for its mix of natural beauty and recreational activities.
You can stroll hand-in-hand through 200 hectares of green space, with views of the Montreal skyline that will make you stop for a picture.
As you walk, explore the floral gardens or rent a paddle boat if you’re feeling active. After your stroll, you can find a quiet spot by the water to simply relax.
| Pro Tip: Check the park’s schedule for festivals and events. If you time it right, you can pair your romantic walk with a picnic and enjoy live music or a cultural performance. |
Go on a picnic date at Parc La Fontaine
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Location: 3819 Av. Calixa-Lavallée
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM
If you’re looking for a classic romantic outing, a picnic in one of Montreal’s most beautiful parks is the perfect idea. Parc La Fontaine offers exactly that.
This park is a gem, offering 34 hectares of green space right in the city. With two ponds connected by waterfalls and plenty of trees, it’s easy to forget you’re in a major metropolis.
You can also rent a paddleboat on the pond or simply enjoy a peaceful walk along the park’s winding paths.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a shaded spot near the water. It’s the prime spot for a perfect picnic experience. |
Take romantic photos at Dorchester Square
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Location: 2903 Peel St
Contact: +1 514-872-0311
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Dorchester Square is incredibly photogenic, offering a little oasis of history and beauty right in the heart of the city. It’s the kind of place that makes your photos look magazine-worthy, even if you’re just using your phone.
You’ll enjoy gorgeous greenery, pathways, and historical monuments. The Boer War Memorial, Montreal’s only equestrian statue, is a standout feature of the area.
The Sun Life Building is just nearby, with its classic architecture adding a timeless touch to any photo.
| Pro Tip: Aim for an early morning photoshoot. The light at that time of day is magical, giving everything a romantic glow. Your couples’ photos will be stunning. |
Cultural experiences
Watch an indie film at Cinéma Moderne
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Location: 5150 St Laurent Blvd
Contact: +1 514-282-2087
Pricing: $$
If you and your partner enjoy indie films that make you think and spark great conversations, head to Cinéma Moderne.
Cinéma Moderne focuses on independent films from Canadian and international filmmakers. This guarantees you’ll see something unique that you won’t find anywhere else.
The theatre itself is small, with only 54 seats. This makes the whole experience feel super intimate. It’s like watching a movie in your private screening room (but with way better sound).
Afterwards, you can head to their chic café-bar to debrief and discuss the film over a drink.
| Pro Tip: To make your visit even more special, check Cinéma Moderne’s schedule for special events or filmmaker Q&A sessions. The sessions can provide deeper insights into the films. |
Explore the historic Château Ramezay Museum
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Location: 280 Notre-Dame St. East
Contact: +1 514-861-3708
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Right in the heart of Old Montreal, the Château Ramezay was the first building in Quebec to be officially declared a historic monument.
You can explore exhibits that bring the city’s past to life, complete with multimedia portrayals of historical figures (available in six languages!).
There’s even a French colonial-style garden outside that’s perfect for a peaceful stroll. They also have seasonal events, such as the ‘Around the Fireplace Holiday Traditions’ exhibition. It’s a special and interesting experience, making it ideal for two.
| Pro Tip: Join a guided tour in the summer (included with admission). They offer a deeper dive into Montreal’s history, with English tours at noon and 2 PM. |
Admire art at the McCord Museum
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Location: 690 Sherbrooke St W
Contact: +1 514-861-6701
Operating hours:
- Tuesday & Thursday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Pricing: $$
For couples who appreciate art and history, the McCord Museum in Montreal offers a fascinating experience. It boasts a collection of over 2.5 million artefacts that tell the city’s story.
From photographs and textiles to Indigenous artworks, you’ll encounter pieces that illuminate Montreal’s diverse communities and historical narratives. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn something new together and spark meaningful conversations.
The McCord also features a rotating selection of temporary exhibitions, such as ‘Inuit Universe’ by Manasie Akpaliapik and ‘To All the Unnamed Women’ by Michaëlle Sergile. Each provides a fresh perspective to explore.
| Pro Tip: Snag your tickets online and save $2—more money for a post-museum treat! |
Star gaze at Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium
Location: 4801 Pierre-de Coubertin Ave
Contact: +1 514-868-3000
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday & Sunday – 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Thursday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 8:15 PM
Pricing: $$
For a date night that’s truly out of this world, head to the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium in Montreal’s Space for Life district. This place takes stargazing to a whole new level.
With cutting-edge technology and immersive 360° domes, the planetarium offers shows that will transport you across the universe.
You can explore exoplanets in ‘Beyond the Sun: In Search of a New Earth’ or journey across the Red Planet in ‘One Day on Mars.’ Its exceptional blend of science and art is perfect for couples who share a sense of curiosity and wonder.
| Pro Tip: Go on a Thursday evening. They have special deals on films, making it a fun and affordable date night. |
Unique experiences
Challenge each other at Combat d’Archers
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Location: 3955 Rue de Rouen
Contact: +1 438-496-6339
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Ready for a date that’s more exciting than dinner and a movie? Head to Combat d’Archers, Montreal’s top destination for indoor combat archery.
This massive 10,000-square-foot facility offers a unique blend of archery, paintball, and dodgeball with foam-tipped arrows.
Whether you choose to challenge your significant other to a duel or team up against other players (up to 40 can play at once!), you’re guaranteed an adrenaline-pumping experience.
Plus, they provide everything from masks and arm guards to bows and arrows.
And if you need to unwind before or after the battle, there’s a lobby area complete with ping pong and foosball.
| Pro Tip: Ditch the date night attire for comfortable athletic wear. You’ll want to be able to move freely during this action-packed activity. |
Climb together at Allez Up Centre d’escalade
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Location: 1555 Saint-Patrick St
Contact: +1 514-989-9656
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:30 PM to 12:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Allez Up Centre d’escalade is a climber’s paradise, with over 20,000 square feet of climbing terrain.
It offers indoor routes, bouldering areas, and even repurposed silos along the Lachine Canal for outdoor climbing.
Allez Up welcomes everyone, from total newbies to experienced climbers. You can learn together or challenge yourself on more difficult routes.
Aside from that, the friendly staff and modern facilities make it a fun place to hang out.
| Pro Tip: Take advantage of the lounge area. It’s a great spot to relax between climbs, grab a snack, and talk about your next route. You can even meet other climbers there. |
Play a round of mini-golf at Putting Edge Downtown
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Location: 1259 Guy St
Contact: +1 514-507-8106
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Pricing: $$
How about a date night that’s more adventurous than dinner and a movie? Check out glow-in-the-dark mini-golf at Putting Edge on Rue Guy.
This indoor, 18-hole course is bathed in black lights that create a unique atmosphere. Neon colours splash and the fantasy-themed decor transports you to another world.
A playful setting encourages lighthearted competition and shared enjoyment. After your round, the fun can continue in the arcade area. You can even grab a drink at the licensed bar.
| Pro Tip: Go all out and wear white or neon clothing. You’ll pop under the black lights and become part of the glowing scenery. |
Nightlife and entertainment
Sing to each other at Le Mic Karaoke Lounge
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Location: 1695 Blvd. De Maisonneuve Ouest
Contact: +1 514-661-1695
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 3:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Pricing: $$
If you love a good duet (or just enjoy belting out tunes in private), you need to check out Le Mic Karaoke Lounge.
Le Mic offers private rooms, so you can sing your heart out without the crowd. Plus, their massive song selection includes the latest hits from YouTube.
On top of that, they have a slick song request system that makes it easy to find your favourites.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning a weekend visit, book a private room ahead of time. These rooms are popular, and you don’t want to miss out. |
Catch a comedy show at The Comedy Nest
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Location: 2313 Saint-Catherine St W 3rd Floor
Contact: +1 514-932-6378
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7:15 PM to 9:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 7:15 PM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: $$
For a date night that’s guaranteed to tickle your funny bone, look no further than The Comedy Nest.
They boast a cabaret-style vibe. With candle-lit tables and a full-service bar, it sets the stage for an intimate and enjoyable evening.
You can also expect a diverse lineup of comedic talent. It includes up-and-comers and headliners you might recognise from The Tonight Show or The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
As a Just For Laughs Festival venue, The Comedy Nest consistently delivers top-tier acts.
| Pro Tip: Snag your tickets online in advance. It’s a smart move that often comes with bonuses like free popcorn and preferred seating. |
Sip cocktails at Le 4e Mur
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Location: 2021 Saint Denis St
Contact: +1 438-396-8947
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Pricing: $$$
Have you heard of Le 4e Mur? It’s a speakeasy in Montreal, and finding it is half the fun.
Established in 2015, Le 4e Mur embraces a Prohibition-era vibe. To locate it, you need to subscribe to their newsletter for clues—Google Maps might say 2021 Rue Saint-Denis, but that could be a red herring!
Once you find your way in, you’re transported to another time with dim lighting and possibly some live jazz or a burlesque show.
The cocktails are exceptional, with mixologists crafting stories into every drink.
| Pro Tip: Make sure to dress the part! Semi-formal or vintage attire will enhance the speakeasy experience and make you feel like you’ve truly stepped back in time. |
