A Weekend in Montreal at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel

I was thrilled to celebrate my birthday in Montreal and stay at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth especially after hearing about the extensive renovation the property underwent last year. Since I am no stranger to the Fairmont resorts and hotels (see my stay at the Fairmont Royal York hotel in Toronto here), I knew that I would be in good hands once I arrived at this beautiful Montreal landmark.

After checking into my room late Friday evening, I quickly realized how spacious the suite was and noticed all of the special treats left in the room for me- I mean personalized toiletries from Le Labo #yesplease! I have to admit that the first night was a bit of a blur since I had dinner reservations at one of Chuck Hughes restaurant’s in Old Montreal- talk about a late night dinner. I somehow managed to get to Le Bremner before the kitchen closed at 11:00 pm and was so happy that I got to enjoy the delicious food at this quaint restaurant in Old Montreal. I love everything about this area from the cobblestone streets to the charming cafes which make you feel like you’ve been transported to one of your favorite European cities.

What I wore: Blazer: Club Monaco | Pants: Club Monaco | Shirt: I Saw it First (on sale), (similar style here) | Shoes: IMNYC sold out, (similar style here) | Sunglasses: ray ban | Bag: Celine | Bracelet: Hermes

Get the look here:

What I wore: Lace Came Set : Victoria’s Secret

Get the look here: 

Even though Montreal isn’t in Europe you certainly get those vibes when you explore the city, and I couldn’t wait to see more of this historic town the next day. I woke up to a fantastic view from my suite that overlooked the streets of Montreal, and the Mary Queen of the Worlds Cathedral. I enjoyed breakfast in bed which included a delicious crepe with fruit and coffee. Ordering a crepe in Montreal seemed so fitting to me since crepes originated in France and Montreal is a predominately French-speaking city. Before coming on this trip I told myself I should try to practice the un petite amount of Francais that I learned in high school- HA! Let’s just say I was unsuccessful when attempting to communicate with salespeople at the famous department store Ogilvy’s (side note- I found the cutest ear muffs at this store and left them behind and I’ve been thinking about them every since- FAIL)  that day. Did I mention that the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth is a 5-10 minute walk away from St. Catherines street which is one of the major shopping areas in Montreal.

After shopping, I ate a delicious lunch at Rosely’s, which is located on the lobby level of the Fairmont hotel. From the Art Deco aesthetics accompanied by gorgeous black and white herringbone tile,  I adored this restaurant’s beautiful decor. I highly recommend ordering the skirt steak and ravioli. The evening concluded at an Italian restaurant for a delicious birthday dinner followed by a night on the town.

Sunday morning I grabbed a latte and a delicious pastry from Krema cafe in the lobby of the Fairmont- shoutout to barista Carl for his fantastic latte art. This cafe wasn’t the only grab and go eatery at the hotel; there was also an artisan market located on the lobby level as well. Marche Artisans is one of the first urban markets in a Canadian hotel and is such a unique experience that is definitely worth checking out.

Phone case: Ideal of Sweden

What I wore: Overalls: Top Shop | Sweater: Top Shop | Boots: DVF, old (similar style here) | Bag: Celine | Hat: missguided

Get the look here: 

A trip to Montreal wouldn’t be complete without going to Schwartz’s Deli for a smoked meat sandwich which is precisely what I did Sunday afternoon. These famous sandwiches melt in your mouth and will leave you craving another one when you’re done. Cafe Darling was the last stop on my trip before heading back to Toronto. This adorable cafe is located in Le Plateau and is so cozy you’ll feel right at home. I personally felt like I was on the set of the popular television show, Friends, when I was lounging at Darling.

What I wore: Top: T by Alexander Wang, on sale  (similar style here) | Boots: Dolce Vita | Skirt: Top Shop | Jacket: Zara, old (similar style here) | Phone Case: Ideal of Sweden|

Get the look here:

I can’t wait for my next trip to Montreal and the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth. If you’re planning to book your next trip at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth why not splurge and book the John Lennon suite. This suite was renovated to include all four individual rooms that Lennon and Yuko Ono had once rented. However, don’t fret if you are unable to stay in this special suite, there are 949 other suites to choose from at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth that I’m sure will provide you with an unforgettable stay.

A special thanks to the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth for hosting me! Book your next stay here!

Photography by: Laura G. Diaz | (@bylauragdiaz)

xo, Britney