Bonsecours Market (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Bonsecours Market?
What makes it 76% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor enters free, explores Quebec craft shops, small art galleries and historic architecture safely, but limited interactive exhibits mean the stop is pleasant yet not essential.
![[ 4K ] Exploring Bonsecours Market: A Hidden Gem in Montreal | Quebec, Canada 🇨🇦](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/BIY8ht37XqE/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Free entry and photos: You can explore and photograph the interior at no cost.
- Central Old Port location: Easy walk from Notre-Dame or Pointe-à-Callière museums.
- Local artisan shops: Find unique Quebec crafts not sold elsewhere.
Challenges:
- Limited seating: Cafés fill up midday; seating can be scarce at peak hours.
- Seasonal terrace hours: Terrasse Bonsecours closes in late fall; plan ahead.
- Variable gallery hours: Smaller galleries may close on weekdays; verify before visit.
What is Bonsecours Market?
- A neoclassical market hall built in 1847, crowned by a silver dome and Doric columns
- A former centre for agricultural trade that served as Montreal’s main public market for over a century
- A cultural landmark housing Quebec-made boutiques, art galleries, exhibition halls and restaurants
What is so special about Bonsecours Market for solo trip?
- Free entry into a grand neoclassical hall under a silver dome
- Browse Quebec-made crafts, jewelry and fashion in 15 boutiques
- Discover small art galleries featuring Inuit art and antiques
- Enjoy casual bites or sushi at historic cafés
- Sip local beers and cocktails on a seasonal riverside terrace
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Time to admire architecture, browse boutiques, and enjoy a snack without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Bonsecours Market
Admire the neoclassical hall:
Explore the main hall under its silver dome and Doric columns.
Tip: Visit in morning for soft light and fewer people.
Browse Quebec-made boutiques:
Shop crafts, jewelry and fashion from local artisans.
Tip: Ask shopkeepers about makers and material to learn local stories.
Visit art galleries:
See Inuit art and antique furniture in small gallery spaces.
Tip: Check gallery hours online before arriving.
Grab a bite at Café des Arts or Sushi Ya:
Enjoy crepes, salads, sushi and coffee in a historic setting.
Tip: Sit at the counter to watch food prep; try weekday mid-afternoon for quieter seating.
Sip a drink on Terrasse Bonsecours:
Toast with cocktails or local beers overlooking the Old Port.
Tip: Open spring to fall; arrive at sunset for best view.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bonsecours Market
- Visit early: Arrive when doors open to avoid crowds and get better photos.
- Combine with Old Port walk: Stroll along the riverfront before or after exploring the market.
- Check the events calendar: Look online for free exhibitions or pop-up markets before your trip.
Reviews of Bonsecours Market
Through_Barb_Eyes
Notable for its beautiful architecture. A few stores inside looked interesting. The food court seemed good, although I didn't try it. Paid parking is available in the vicinity. A must-see attraction for visitors to Old Montreal.
Brad
This is the landmark public market building along Rue St. Paul in Old Montreal. Fitted next to the historic Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, the Bonsecours Market was build in Neo-Classical style by William Footner between 1844-47 and features a column lined entrance and two storey dome. It has been recognised as a National Historic Site in Canada since 1984. The market building is attractive fr...
Marwan Hanoosh
It's like an indoor market, lots of small shops that sells crafts and souvenirs, as well as clothing. Washrooms available on site, multiple gates in different direction. Nice to take a little walk inside, and may be buy a couple of things.
Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari
This is one of the best markets in old Montreal to buy souvenirs. There are a number of shops, most of which sell souvenir items. Their products are og different designs and accommodate to different tastes and ages.
Melanie E
A beautiful historical building with shops selling souvenirs, Canadian food products and Indigenous crafts. There was one store selling beverages and snacks.
When is the best time to visit Bonsecours Market (Montreal, Canada)?
Spring–summer: use the rooftop terrace for sunset views. Fall: enjoy indoor light as leaves change outside. Winter: boutiques stay open and the dome is lit after dark. Check holiday pop-up schedules in December.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | CAD 0 |
| Exhibition ticket | CAD 10 |
| Coffee at Café des Arts | CAD 6 |
| Lunch at Sushi Ya | CAD 15 |
| Drink at Terrasse Bonsecours | CAD 15 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 46 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Bonsecours Market
Address: 350 Rue Saint-Paul E, Montréal, QC H2Y 1H2, Canada
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About Bonsecours Market
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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