Liam TrudeauRock the night away at the best music venues in Montreal
When it comes to live music, Montreal doesn’t just play the hits—it’s the headliner. As a city that lives and breathes creativity, it knows how to set the stage for unforgettable nights.
We’ve spent countless evenings swaying under neon lights, chasing encore after encore, and discovering sounds that stay with us long after the show.
From cosy hideaways where up-and-coming artists pour their hearts out to iconic stages that host musical legends, Montreal’s music venues hit all the right notes.
MTELUS
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Location: 59 St Catherine St E
Contact: +1 514-492-1775
MTELUS has seen it all since 1884. Its origin story includes a skating rink, followed by stints as a summer theatre and even a disco. But since 1997, it’s been a hallowed ground for live music.
It has that perfect size, holding around 2,300 people. You get that amazing concert buzz without feeling like you’re in a mosh pit survival challenge.
In 2017, the place received a major upgrade, including a mind-blowing L-Acoustics K3 sound system.
Some legends who’ve graced this stage include David Bowie, Prince, and Björk. Yeah, MTELUS is a big deal.
| Pro Tip: Arrive at least an hour before showtime to secure preferred seating. This is especially important for the balcony area, which offers excellent stage views. |
La Sola Rossa
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Location: 4848 St Laurent Blvd
Contact: +1 514-844-4227
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
La Sola Rossa has been around since 1932. Its building was designed by Max Kalman, a pioneering Jewish graduate of McGill’s School of Architecture.
Originally, La Sala Rossa was the heart of the Arbeter Ring (Worker’s Circle), a left-wing Jewish mutual aid organisation. It was also a hub for community and activism.
Today, it’s one of Montreal’s most cherished independent music venues. They host everything from indie rock to jazz, flamenco to experimental.
You walk in, and you’re hit with this feeling. There are high ceilings and those signature red walls—it’s intimate and historic.
| Pro Tip: Take advantage of their Hearing Assistance System on the FM dial at 101.1 FM. This lets you hear every note, lyric, and beat with clarity. |
Beanfield Theatre
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Location: Beanfield Theatre
Contact: +1 514-492-1775
Originally called the Family Theatre, it first screened silent films. Later renamed Théâtre Corona (and now Beanfield Theatre), it has preserved its vintage charm.
The facade is stunning. Inside, you can expect opulent interiors and ornate furnishings that’ll make you feel like royalty.
With a capacity of around 800, the Beanfield Theatre offers an intimate concert experience—you’re close to the stage and you feel truly connected to the music.
Plus, the acoustics are fantastic. There isn’t a bad seat in the house. It’s no wonder that it’s a favourite for both bands and fans.
| Pro Tip: To enhance your visit, consider using public transit. The theatre is conveniently accessible via Lionel-Groulx Metro Station. |
Turbo Haus
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Location: 2040 Saint-Denis St
Contact: +1 514-379-6363
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Thursday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Turbo Haüs was started by members of the local punk band Trigger Effect—you know it’s got that authentic, DIY spirit.
It has gone from a homegrown spot to a professionally run venue, yet it hasn’t lost its soul. It remains deeply connected to the Montreal music scene.
They’re known for booking a seriously diverse lineup. You might catch a punk show one night and an indie-pop act the next. Turbo is all about showcasing talent, no matter the genre.
Plus, they have a cocktail bar. You can grab a drink in their freshly renovated space while you enjoy the show.
| Pro Tip: Given the venue’s limited capacity, it’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance to ensure entry. |
Bell Centre
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Location: 1909 Av. des Canadiens-de-Montréal
Contact: +1 514-932-2582
Opened in 1996, the Bell Centre can hold over 21,000 screaming fans for concerts. It’s the place to see mega-stars, legends, and acts that need a stage as big as their sound.
The design is sleek and modern, and the acoustics are top-notch for a venue of this size. They’ve got all the latest technology to ensure the sound is incredible, no matter where you’re sitting (or standing and dancing!).
The names that have played on this stage include huge acts like U2, Céline Dion, and Madonna. The Bell Centre is where you go for those unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime concert experiences.
| Pro Tip: Consider the Club Desjardins level for optimal seating during concerts (sections 200-224). It provides excellent sightlines for an enhanced experience. |
Club Soda
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Location: 1225 Boul. Saint-Laurent Boul
Contact: +1 514-286-1010 ext. 200
Club Soda is the brainchild of Joseph Martellino, Guy Gosselin, André Gagnon, and Martin Després. It first rocked Park Avenue before settling into its current home in 2000.
It’s a piece of history itself, built in 1908 and formerly known as the Crystal Palace.
From jazz to reggae, Club Soda has seen it all. They’ve hosted countless artists, solidifying their place as a major player in Montreal’s vibrant music scene.
And the venue itself is a chameleon. It transforms from cabaret seating to a full-on dance party depending on the night.
| Pro Tip: Be sure to reserve your parking space before arriving in downtown Montreal. You can easily do so through their new partner, Clicknpark. |
Foufounes Electriques
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Location: 87 St Catherine St E
Contact: +1 514-844-5539
- Monday to Sunday – 4:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Foufounes Electriques, or “Foufs” as the locals call it, has been a legendary haven for alternative music and underground culture since 1983.
Located in the heart of the Quartier Latin, Foufs is a multi-level playground for music lovers. We’re talking multiple floors, dance floors, and a sweet outdoor patio that’s perfect for the summer.
They’ve hosted legendary bands like Nirvana, Green Day, and Queens of the Stone Age. This place has a knack for showcasing both rising stars and established acts, making it a vital part of the music scene.
| Pro Tip: Consider attending events on weeknights when local bands and emerging artists take the stage. It’s a great opportunity to discover new talent before they hit the mainstream. |
Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill
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Location: 1254 Mackay St
Contact: +1 514-931-6808
- Tuesday to Sunday – 5:30 PM to 1:00 AM
If you’re into jazz, this place needs to be on your radar. Since 1995, it’s been the city’s go-to spot for authentic, live jazz.
Forget those trendy bars with ‘jazz nights.’ Joel Giberovitch founded Upstairs as a dedicated listening room. He drew inspiration from the intimate, legendary jazz clubs of New York.
The semi-basement setting, the cosy wood-panelled walls, and the classic album covers evoke a sense of stepping back in time to the golden age of jazz.
They bring in serious talent, too. They’ve hosted international icons like Oliver Jones, Ranee Lee, and John Abercrombie.
Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill was even crowned one of the top 150 jazz clubs in the world by Downbeat Magazine. They are also a big part of the Montreal International Jazz Festival.
| Pro Tip: Catch the third set for a free dose of world-class jazz, typically starting around 11 PM. It’s a great way to enjoy top-notch music late into the night. |
Casa Del Popolo
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Location: 4873 St Laurent Blvd
Contact: +1 514-284-3804
- Sunday to Wednesday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
This Montreal spot, whose name translates to ‘House of the People’ in Italian, is more than just a venue—it’s a community hub that’s been rocking the city since September 2000.
Mauro Pezzente and Kiva Stimac, the masterminds behind Casa, created a space that’s as multifaceted as the artists it showcases. It’s a bar, an art gallery, and a live music venue—all under one roof.
They set out to make a welcoming space for everyone—and they nailed it.
This place is intimate. With a capacity of around 55, you’re right there in the action. Arcade Fire, Buck 65, and Do Make Say Think have all graced this stage.
| Pro Tip: Be sure to check out one of Casa del Popolo’s monthly events, such as their spoken word night. It takes place on the third Sunday of every month. |
Le National
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Location: 1220 St Catherine St E
Contact: +1 514-845-2014
- Thursday & Saturday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
In its early years, Le National was the epicentre of Quebecois theatre. They showcase local Broadway hits, the allure of burlesque, and the intensity of melodrama.
In 2006, a new management broadened its horizons. Today, you’ll find a vibrant mix of concerts, dance, comedy, and variety shows on the calendar.
But Le National hasn’t forgotten its roots. The historical charm is palpable. This creates a unique atmosphere that continues to draw in both artists and audiences.
And what a roster of artists it’s been: Mustafa, Silverstein, Amyl and the Sniffers, and Caribou are just a few of the names that have graced this legendary stage.
| Pro Tip: Scout their website for upcoming events. Le National frequently hosts a variety of events. A little online reconnaissance ensures you’re in the know. |
Diese Onze Live Jazz Bar
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Location: 4115 Saint-Denis St
Contact: +1 514-223-3543
- Thursday to Tuesday – 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Diese Onze Live Jazz Bar place has been a cornerstone of the city’s jazz scene since it swung open its doors in 2007.
This venue offers an intimate, semi-basement setting that’s both welcoming and cool. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, you’ll feel right at home.
They’ve got live music every single night, usually with two shows. You can catch the early performance at 6:00 PM for a taste of gypsy jazz, flamenco, and other world music flavours. Then, settle in for the main concert later in the evening.
And get this: DownBeat, the renowned American jazz magazine, has named this music venue one of the best jazz clubs in the world.
| Pro Tip: Maximise your experience by reserving a table for dinner during the early show. Combine fantastic food with amazing live music for a truly memorable evening. |
