48-Hour Montreal Low-Cost Travel Itinerary

Published on May 26, 2025

by Annie Driver

Welcome to Montreal, a vibrant, multicultural gem in the heart of Quebec, Canada. Famed for its French heritage, dynamic arts scene, and mouthwatering food, Montreal is a top destination for travelers seeking charm and culture—without draining their bank accounts. Whether you’re strolling through cobblestone streets or sipping a latte in a quirky Plateau café, Montreal offers a mix of European flair and North American energy that’s perfect for budget travelers.

This 48-hour itinerary is tailored for savvy adventurers looking to get the best of Montreal on a budget. From historic sites and free outdoor experiences to low-cost culinary delights, you’ll explore the city’s soul while keeping your spending in check. Get ready for an unforgettable two-day journey filled with history, flavor, and smart travel choices.

Why Montreal? A Short History and Significance

Montreal was founded in 1642 as a French missionary colony and has grown into one of North America’s most unique cities. It’s the second-largest French-speaking city in the world after Paris and a cultural crossroads where old meets new. The city played a major role in Canada’s colonial history and later became a hub for commerce, industry, and creativity.

Today, Montreal is known for its festivals, historic neighborhoods, and affordable public services. Its blend of European architecture, diverse immigrant communities, and vibrant street life make it ideal for budget-conscious travelers eager for rich experiences without luxury prices.

48 Hours in Montreal: Day One

Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)

Start your journey in Old Montreal, the city’s historic heart. Walk its cobblestone streets and admire 17th-century architecture that feels like a slice of Europe. Don’t miss Place Jacques-Cartier and the charming shops and galleries that line Rue Saint-Paul. Entrance is free, and the best time to visit is early morning before crowds arrive.

Nearby, you’ll find the Notre-Dame Basilica, one of the most breathtaking churches in North America. Located at 110 Notre-Dame Street West, it’s open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is CAD $15 for adults, and worth every cent for the stunning Gothic Revival interior. Take the orange metro line to Champ-de-Mars or Place-d’Armes station and walk five minutes to the basilica.

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts)

For a cultural fix, head to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. It’s one of Canada’s most prominent art museums and offers free general admission to its permanent collections. Located at 1380 Sherbrooke Street West, the museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Mondays). This is a great opportunity to explore impressive art without spending a dime.

From Old Montreal, you can take the green metro line from Berri-UQAM to Peel Station. The museum is a five-minute walk from there. Pack a light lunch or grab a budget-friendly sandwich at nearby bakery Au Pain Doré for under CAD $8.

Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal)

Wrap up the day with a sunset hike at Mount Royal Park. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (of Central Park fame), this vast green space offers stunning panoramic views of downtown Montreal. The main lookout point, the Kondiaronk Belvedere, is a must-see. Entry is free, and it’s open 6 a.m. to midnight daily.

To get there, walk or take bus 11 from Mont-Royal metro station. The hike up takes about 30 minutes. Wear good walking shoes and bring water. The golden-hour views are a spectacular—and free—reward for your efforts.

48 Hours in Montreal: Day Two

Jean-Talon Market

Begin day two at the Jean-Talon Market, one of North America’s largest public markets. Located in the Little Italy district, it’s a feast for the senses—and the wallet. Sample fresh produce, grab pastries or crepes for CAD $5–10, or even pick up a picnic lunch. Entry is free, and most vendors accept credit cards.

The market is located at 7070 Henri-Julien Avenue and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Take the blue metro line to Jean-Talon station and follow the signs—it’s just a short walk from there. It’s a great place to mingle with locals and enjoy budget-friendly gourmet flavors.

Botanical Garden (Jardin botanique de Montréal)

Next, escape the city bustle with a visit to the Montreal Botanical Garden, one of the most beautiful of its kind. It features themed gardens, greenhouses, and walking paths. Admission is CAD $22.75 for adults, and discounts are available for students and seniors.

The garden is located at 4101 Sherbrooke Street East, just beside the Olympic Park. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Take the green metro line to Pie-IX station and walk a few minutes. Bring a snack and stroll through the Japanese Garden or Insectarium—your inner child will thank you.

The Plateau and Mile End Walking Tour

Conclude your trip with a self-guided walk through The Plateau and Mile End, Montreal’s most creative neighborhoods. Known for colorful row houses, indie bookstores, vintage shops, and street art, this area captures the city’s bohemian spirit. It’s free to explore and endlessly Instagrammable.

Start at Mont-Royal metro station and walk west along Avenue Mont-Royal, then north to Mile End via Saint-Laurent Boulevard. Be sure to stop by St-Viateur Bagel—a classic Montreal bagel will cost just CAD $1.25 and is the perfect cheap snack. End your walk with a drink or coffee at one of the neighborhood’s cozy cafés.

Tips to Save Money on Your Trip to Montreal

Buy a 3-day unlimited metro and bus pass for CAD $21.25.
Visit free museums and galleries on Wednesdays when many waive entry fees.
Look for student discounts even if you’re not local—some accept international student cards.
Eat at ethnic restaurants in areas like Parc-Extension or Chinatown for low-cost meals.
Use grocery stores like Provigo or IGA for snacks and lunch ingredients.

Tips for Transportation in Montreal

Use the STM metro and bus system—it’s efficient, safe, and multilingual.
Walk as much as possible—Montreal is pedestrian-friendly, especially downtown and Plateau.
Rent a BIXI bike for CAD $1.25 per 30 minutes—ideal for exploring parks and neighborhoods.
Download the Transit App for real-time public transport info and route planning.
If arriving by air, take the 747 Express Bus from the airport to downtown for CAD $11 (includes a 24-hour metro pass).

Final Thoughts

Montreal is a city that welcomes all, especially those who love to explore with curiosity and care for their wallet. In just 48 hours, you can take in its rich history, world-class attractions, and quirky neighborhoods without overspending. By walking smart, eating local, and seeking out free and low-cost experiences, you’ll come away with a richer understanding of what makes this city truly special. Bon voyage et bon marché!