Montreal, the largest city in Quebec, Canada, is rich in history and culture while also boasting a modern urban atmosphere. For travelers on a budget, choosing affordable and sociable accommodations is undoubtedly the best way to enjoy a trip to Montreal. Youth hostels and shared accommodations (such as Airbnb) have become the top choice for many visitors. I’ll recommend some of the top-rated hostels and shared accommodations to help you find the perfect place to stay in this vibrant city.
1. La Maison du Patriote – A High-Rated Boutique Youth Hostel
Surrounding Area
La Maison du Patriote is located in the heart of the historic Old Port area (Vieux-Montréal), one of Montreal’s most picturesque and culturally rich neighborhoods. The area is lined with cobblestone streets and charming colonial-era architecture, offering travelers a unique atmosphere that blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy. Guests can easily explore iconic attractions such as the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Old Port of Montreal, and Place Jacques-Cartier. Street performers, local markets, cafes, and art shops abound, making every stroll an immersive cultural experience. Public transport is also easily accessible, connecting visitors to the rest of the city with ease.
Facilities
La Maison du Patriote offers a diverse range of room types to suit different preferences and budgets, from cozy mixed dorms to intimate private rooms. Each space is thoughtfully designed with cleanliness and comfort in mind, featuring high-quality mattresses, reading lamps, individual power outlets, and spacious lockers for personal belongings. The hostel’s communal kitchen is well-equipped for guests who wish to cook their own meals, while the entertainment room includes books, board games, and a shared computer station. The large lounge area with vintage-style decor creates a welcoming atmosphere for guests to relax or engage in group chats and game nights.
Activities
This hostel is not just a place to sleep — it’s a hub of social interaction and cultural exchange. La Maison du Patriote regularly hosts free and low-cost social activities that encourage guests to explore the city and connect with each other. Popular offerings include guided walking tours of Old Montreal, wine and cheese nights, live music sessions, and multilingual conversation clubs. Weekly cultural dinners spotlight cuisines from around the world, often prepared by volunteers or staff, providing a warm, communal dining experience. These events make it easy for solo travelers and backpackers to make friends and create unforgettable memories during their stay.
2. M Montreal – A Super Popular Modern Youth Hostel
Surrounding Area
M Montreal is situated in the heart of the city, just a 10-minute walk from Montreal’s Central Station (Gare Centrale), making it an ideal base for exploring the city. The hostel is surrounded by a vibrant urban scene full of life and color, including countless restaurants, lively bars, indie cafés, and major shopping centers. Nearby neighborhoods such as the Latin Quarter (Le Quartier Latin) offer a bohemian vibe with bookstores, art cinemas, and jazz clubs, while the iconic Sainte-Catherine Street is a hub of nightlife, street performers, and local boutiques. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences or a night out on the town, everything is within easy reach.
Facilities
M Montreal is a stylish, modern youth hostel known for its upscale amenities rarely found in budget accommodations. The hostel offers a fully equipped shared kitchen for guests who enjoy cooking, along with a spacious and sunny rooftop terrace featuring a hot tub—perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The indoor common areas include a game room with pool tables, foosball, and video games, as well as multiple lounging areas with smart TVs and cozy seating. All dorms and private rooms are thoughtfully designed with privacy curtains, individual reading lights, USB charging ports, and secure lockers. Cleanliness and comfort are clearly top priorities here, giving guests a premium hostel experience.
Activities
M Montreal goes beyond being just a place to sleep—it offers a dynamic social experience. The hostel hosts an exciting calendar of weekly events including pub crawls, karaoke nights, themed parties, and cultural workshops that draw both international guests and local residents. Free city walking tours help travelers discover hidden gems of Montreal with knowledgeable local guides, while in-house language exchange meetups foster connection between guests from different backgrounds. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, the warm, energetic atmosphere makes it easy to meet people and create unforgettable memories in one of Canada’s most culturally rich cities.
3. Auberge de Jeunesse – A Tranquil Hostel Near the Fishing Harbor
Surrounding Area
Auberge de Jeunesse is nestled in the quiet and picturesque Fishing Harbor district of Montreal, an area known for its relaxing lakeside atmosphere and local charm. This serene neighborhood is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat while remaining close to the city’s vibrant energy. The hostel is within walking distance of several beautiful parks, including Parc de la Promenade-Bellerive, and prominent museums such as the Montreal Insectarium. Guests can enjoy scenic lakeside strolls at sunrise or sunset, or take advantage of the well-paved paths for jogging or cycling. Despite the tranquility, it takes only a short walk or a quick public transit ride to reach top attractions like the Montreal Biodome, Olympic Park, and the Montreal Tower, making it a perfect base for exploring the city at a relaxed pace.
Facilities
Auberge de Jeunesse provides a range of accommodation types tailored to different traveler needs, including clean and spacious dormitories as well as cozy private rooms. Each room features comfortable bedding, ample storage lockers, and private bathroom facilities, ensuring a secure and restful stay. The hostel’s shared kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances and cooking tools, ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those who enjoy preparing their own meals. The common lounge is tastefully furnished with soft seating, board games, books, and ambient lighting, creating a warm and inviting space for guests to unwind. Laundry facilities and free Wi-Fi throughout the building further add to the convenience of staying here.
Activities
Auberge de Jeunesse offers a wide variety of engaging activities that enhance the travel experience. Guests can participate in seasonal water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding along the lakefront or join guided walking tours that explore Montreal’s lesser-known cultural and historical landmarks. The hostel regularly hosts themed movie nights in a cozy screening room and organizes cultural exchange events like storytelling sessions, local music showcases, and international food tastings. These social gatherings provide wonderful opportunities for guests from around the world to connect, share stories, and make lasting friendships. Whether you’re looking to dive into local culture or simply enjoy a relaxed evening with fellow travelers, the hostel’s community atmosphere is always welcoming.
4. Airbnb Shared Accommodations – Experience Local Life in Montreal
Surrounding Area
Montreal’s Airbnb shared accommodations come in a wide variety, catering to different types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a modern apartment in the city center or a quiet detached villa in a peaceful neighborhood, there’s something for everyone. Many Airbnb properties are located in the Old Port or the Latin Quarter, offering not only great transportation links but also a chance to experience the city’s historical atmosphere.
Facilities
Facilities vary depending on the host, but most properties offer high-standard living conditions. Most apartments and houses come with a fully equipped kitchen, modern appliances, comfortable bedrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi. For travelers who prefer more independence and freedom, Airbnb is an excellent option.
Activities
By staying in an Airbnb, you’ll have the opportunity to live like a local. Many hosts will recommend nearby restaurants, bars, and event venues, and some even offer local cooking classes or private tours to help visitors better understand Montreal’s culture and daily life.
5. Budget Recommendation: Le 400 – An Economical Youth Hostel
Surrounding Area
Le 400 is located in the heart of Montreal, within walking distance of the beautiful Sainte-Catherine Street and the cultural district. The area is filled with numerous restaurants, shops, and bars, making it a paradise for shopping and nightlife enthusiasts.
Facilities
Le 400 is an affordable, no-frills hostel that offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms. The hostel features spacious, modern common areas, including a TV area, lounge, and free Wi-Fi. The kitchen is well-equipped, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to prepare their own meals.
Activities
While the hostel focuses on affordability, it still offers a range of social activities. There is a social area where guests can relax, chat, and share travel experiences. The hostel also organizes free city tours, helping visitors quickly familiarize themselves with Montreal’s classic attractions.
6. Booking Platforms
Montreal’s youth hostels and shared accommodations offer a wide variety of options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly to premium services. These hostels not only provide comfortable living environments but also enrich the experience through a range of social activities and thoughtful facilities, allowing you to experience the city in its full charm.
For bookings, you can use the following platforms:
- Booking.com
- Airbnb
- Hostelworld
These platforms offer an easy way to choose the accommodation that best suits your needs, with flexible booking and cancellation policies to ensure a smooth trip to Montreal.
