Montreal

Montreal is a city of many stories. From the quiet bookshops of the Plateau to the grand libraries of downtown, this bilingual metropolis has long been a haven for writers, poets, and readers seeking inspiration in its tree-lined streets and vibrant neighborhoods.

Day 1

1. Leonard Cohen’s Walk-up (The Plateau)

   5 Rue Vallières, Montréal, QC H2W 1C2, Canada

   Wander by 5 Rue Vallières, where the late poet and musician lived. Afterward, take a moment to reflect across the street in Parc du Portugal

2. Moe Wilensky's

   34 Av. Fairmount O, Montréal, QC H2T 2M1, Canada

   Wilensky's Light Lunch, also known as Wilensky's, is a kosher-style lunch counter located on Fairmount Avenue West in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Opened in 1932 by Moe Wilensky, the restaurant is widely believed to have inspired scenes in Mordecai Richler's novel, The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz as either Eddy's Cigar & Soda or Moe's Cigar Store. Scenes in the film version of the book were shot in the restaurant.

3. Librairie Drawn & Quarterly

   176 Rue Bernard O, Montréal, QC H2T 2K2, Canada

   Located in the heart of the Plateau, this internationally renowned bookshop features an expertly curated selection of graphic novels, zines, and literature

Day 2

1. Pâtisserie Rustique

   4615 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H4C 1S3, Canada

   A seasonal juice stand at the Atwater Market is now a brick-and-mortar storefront on Notre-Dame Street West—just steps from where it all started. Built from the ground up by founder Margot and fueled by family effort, this bright Saint-Henri storefront carries the same energy that drew long lines at the market: juices with personality (Kale Me Later, Berry Beneficial), smoothies that taste better

2. The Tin Flute Setting (Saint-Henri)

   Montreal, QC H4C 1J2, Canada

   Head to the Southwest borough to walk the atmospheric streets that inspired Gabrielle Roy's classic 1945 novel about working-class Montreal. Start at Metro St. Henri and meander to Atwater Market.

3. Argo Bookshop

   1841A Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest, Montréal, QC H3H 1M2, Canada

   Situated in downtown Montreal, this is the city’s oldest English-language indie bookstore, known for a cozy atmosphere and great local author events.