Hotel Place d’Armes Montreal Review: A Detailed Look

Few hotels in Montreal offer the combination of heritage and location that Hotel Place d’Armes delivers. A member of Relais & Châteaux, the property is set within four historic buildings that once housed banks and insurance companies, directly across from the Notre-Dame Basilica (official site). This review draws on verified guest ratings and the hotel’s official history to help you decide if it is the right base for your Old Montreal stay.

Last checked: 2026-08-04

Hotel name: Hôtel Place d’Armes · Chain/affiliation: Relais & Châteaux · Location: Old Montreal, opposite Notre-Dame Basilica · Number of rooms: 169 (including 48 suites and 5 penthouses) · Year built: 19th-century building, renovated into boutique hotel · Notable feature: Terrasse Place d’Armes on 8th floor with sweeping views

What is the Place d’Armes in Montreal?

Place d’Armes is a historic public square in Old Montreal, dominated by the imposing Notre-Dame Basilica. The square has been a gathering point since the 17th century and is surrounded by some of the city’s most significant buildings, including the former Bank of Montreal headquarters and the Saint-Sulpice Seminary. The hotel that shares its name sits on the south side of the square, occupying four adjoining 19th-century structures that originally housed financial institutions and the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Society (official site).

A historic square in Old Montreal

The square’s name dates to the French colonial era, when it served as a military parade ground. Today it is one of the most photographed spots in the city, with the basilica’s Gothic Revival façade drawing visitors year-round. The hotel’s location on the square means that guests step out directly onto the cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montréal.

The hotel’s namesake and its significance

Choosing the name “Place d’Armes” ties the property to the neighbourhood’s layered history. The western building at 701 Côte de la Place d’Armes was built in 1870 for the Great Scottish Life Insurance Company and was designated a Quebec historic site on November 7, 1975 (official site). The central building (53–57 Saint-Jacques) was erected in 1894 for the People’s Bank, and the eastern building at 41 Saint-Jacques went up in 1899 for the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Society. The Antonopoulos family renovated the complex and reopened it as Hôtel Place d’Armes in 2000.

Where is Hotel Le Place d’Armes Located?

The hotel’s address is 55 Rue Saint-Jacques (also styled 55 Saint-Jacques West), in the Ville-Marie borough of Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Tripadvisor). It sits directly opposite the Notre-Dame Basilica, with the entrance just steps from the Place d’Armes metro station.

Address and neighbourhood

Old Montreal is a compact, walkable district of cobblestone streets, 19th-century stone buildings, and waterfront parks. The hotel is on the southern edge of the square, a short walk from the Old Port, the Montreal Science Centre, and the Pointe-à-Callière archaeology museum. The neighbourhood is also home to numerous restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries.

Proximity to key attractions

• Notre-Dame Basilica: 1-minute walk (across the square)
• Old Port of Montreal: 5-minute walk
• Montreal Convention Centre: 5-minute walk
• Place d’Armes metro station: 2-minute walk
• Underground city (RÉSO): accessible via metro

Reviews on Kayak and Expedia consistently highlight the location as the property’s strongest asset, with many guests noting they could explore the historic core entirely on foot (Kayak). For travellers comparing options, see our guide to boutique hotels in Montreal.

What is the Best Area to Stay in Montreal as a Tourist?

First-time visitors to Montreal often gravitate toward Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) for its historic charm and concentration of attractions. The Plateau Mont-Royal, Downtown, and Mile End are other popular districts, each with a different character.

Why Old Montreal is a top choice

Old Montreal offers the densest concentration of heritage sites, museums, and dining in a pedestrian-friendly setting. The neighbourhood’s European feel — with its narrow streets, outdoor cafés, and public squares — makes it particularly appealing for short stays. The Notre-Dame Basilica, the Old Port, and the Pointe-à-Callière museum are all within a 10-minute walk of the hotel.

Other recommended districts

• Plateau Mont-Royal: Known for its bohemian vibe, independent shops, and restaurants. Best for those who want a more local, residential feel.
• Downtown: Convenient for business travellers and shoppers, with direct access to the underground city. Less historic charm.
• Mile End: A hip neighbourhood with a strong food scene, but farther from the main tourist attractions.

For a tourist who wants to minimize travel time and maximize sightseeing, Old Montreal — and specifically the area around Place d’Armes — is the most efficient base. The hotel’s position opposite the basilica gives it a clear advantage over other Old Montreal hotels that are set back from the main square. For a broader overview of options, read our guide to Old Montreal hotels.

How Many Days in Montreal is Enough?

For a focused visit that covers the historic core, two to three days is sufficient. With Hotel Place d’Armes as a base, you can pack a surprising amount into a short stay.

A 2-day itinerary for Old Montreal

Day 1: Start at the Notre-Dame Basilica (book the sound-and-light show in advance). Walk through Place d’Armes and explore the Old Port. Visit the Montreal Science Centre or take a river cruise. Dinner in the Old Port area.

Day 2: Walk to Pointe-à-Callière archaeology museum (8 minutes). Then head to the downtown core via the underground city or metro. Spend the afternoon in the Plateau Mont-Royal for a different neighbourhood feel. Return to the hotel for rooftop drinks at Terrasse Place d’Armes.

If you have a third day, consider a day trip to Mont-Tremblant or the Eastern Townships, or explore the Mile End food scene.

Using Hotel Place d’Armes as a base

Because the hotel is well-positioned near the metro, you can reach the Plateau in 15 minutes and downtown in 10 minutes. Guests on Tripadvisor frequently mention that the hotel’s location made it possible to see the main sights without needing a car.

Pros and Cons of Staying at Hotel Place d’Armes

Alternatives in Old Montreal

If Hotel Place d’Armes is booked or doesn’t fit your budget, several other Old Montreal hotels offer a similar mix of history and comfort.

• Hotel Le St-James: A five-star Relais & Châteaux property nearby, with a more formal atmosphere and higher price point. Good for those who want luxury and a full-service spa.
• Hotel Nelligan: A boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace, located a block from the square. Often slightly lower rates than Place d’Armes.
• Hotel Gault: A modern minimalist property with loft-style rooms, a few blocks east. Appeals to design-conscious travellers.
• Auberge du Vieux-Port: A historic inn with a more intimate feel, located on the Old Port waterfront. Rooms are smaller but rates are generally lower.

Each alternative has its own character: Le St-James is more opulent, Nelligan is more casual, Gault is more contemporary, and Auberge du Vieux-Port is more romantic. The primary differentiating factor for Hotel Place d’Armes remains its direct view of the basilica and its Relais & Châteaux designation.

Our Pick Recommendation