Montreal essentially consists of two types of cultures, and two corresponding types of hotels: the spic-and-span modern Downtown (Vieux-Montréal), and ambiance-oozing Old Port (Vieux-Port), or Old Montreal. Both boast fine hotels and scores of nearby sights and attractions; it's up to you what kind of Montreal experience you want: contemporary or historic.

Downtown

Plush and modern Downtown is home to upscale hotels and restaurants, including two world-class hotels: the newly renovated 825-room Le Centre Sheraton Montréal Hotel and the new Le Westin Montréal. Downtown is an ideal base for business travelers and those seeking a high-end experience. Rue Sherbrooke is Downtown's ground zero for art galleries, clothing boutiques and swank hotels, and home to the Ritz-Carlon. The hotel's 19th-century architecture and popular bar make it the shining star of hotels in this area. Hotel Omni is the hip choice of visiting celebrities, while boutique Hotel Le Germain offers first-class amenities and super stylish decor--at a steep price. You can get the same great location for much less at economical options like Best Western Ville-Marie and Marriott Residence Inn.

Outside Downtown
You can get a lot of the same style, minus the Downtown hustle and bustle, in hotels on the Eastern and Western edges of Downtown. West of Downtown the Montreal boutique hotel Le Meridien Versailles evokes the opulence and luxury of Versailles; the small Hotel du Fort features custom-crafted furnishings in its quaint setting. East of Downtown, Sheraton Four Points Montreal attracts international guests with its high-end amenities, while Delta Montreal offers a quiet location just blocks from the stylish Ste-Catherine Street.

Old Montreal

Hotels in Old Montreal allow you to soak in the historical charm of the area with warm hospitality and ease. Get away from the brand names at quintessentially Montreal Pierre du Calvet, housed in an 18th-century house complete with fireplaces and antiques. L'Auberge du Vieux is housed in a converted warehouse, offering a taste of an entirely different era in Old Montreal; while the Jacuzzis here a big draw, the real gem is the view-touting rooftop terrace. Want the historical ambiance of Old Town, but can't part with Downtown hotels' modernity? Head to brand-new Inter-Continental Montreal for four-star amenities.

Regardless of which area you park your luggage, you don't have to feel confined. Though separated by a hill, Downtown and Old Town are well-connected by the Metro. During the harsh winters, you barely need to venture outside; Old Town and Downtown are linked via subterranean Underground City (RESO) and the World Trade Center.