Montreal

🏬

Shopping Malls

Large indoor and outdoor shopping complexes featuring a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.

Sections

1. CF Carrefour Laval

  • Location: 3003 Boulevard le Carrefour, Laval, QC (just north of Montreal)
  • Overview: One of the largest and most luxurious malls in the Greater Montreal Area, CF Carrefour Laval is known for its upscale shopping experience, beautiful indoor gardens, and wide variety of stores.
  • Popular Stores:
    • High-end: Michael Kors, Coach, Apple Store, Sephora
    • Mid-range: Zara, H&M, Uniqlo, Aritzia
    • Department Stores: Simons, Hudson’s Bay
  • Food Court Options: Offers a mix of fast food (McDonald’s, Thai Express) and sit-down restaurants (The Cheesecake Factory, Table 51).
  • Entertainment: While it doesn’t have a cinema, the mall’s design and indoor greenery make it a pleasant place to stroll.
  • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with elevators and wide corridors.
  • Opening Hours: Typically 10 AM - 9 PM (Mon-Sat), 10 AM - 5 PM (Sun). Check for holiday hours.
  • Parking: Free parking with ample space.
  • Public Transport: Accessible via Laval’s Montmorency Metro Station and bus routes.
  • Costs: Mid to high range for shopping and dining.
  • Tips: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. The Cheesecake Factory is very popular, so expect a wait during peak hours.

2. Eaton Centre Montreal (Centre Eaton de Montréal)

  • Location: 705 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest, Montreal, QC
  • Overview: Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, this mall is part of the Underground City, making it a convenient stop for shopping, dining, and connecting to other parts of the city.
  • Popular Stores:
    • Fashion: Levi’s, Aldo, Lacoste, Urban Outfitters
    • Tech: Apple Store, Samsung Experience Store
    • Unique: Decathlon (sports gear), Miniso (Japanese-inspired goods)
  • Food Court Options: Time Out Market Montreal is a highlight, offering gourmet food from local chefs and cuisines ranging from poutine to sushi.
  • Entertainment: The mall is connected to the Scotiabank Theatre for movies and is a gateway to the Underground City, which is an attraction in itself.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible with elevators and escalators.
  • Opening Hours: 10 AM - 9 PM (Mon-Sat), 11 AM - 6 PM (Sun).
  • Parking: Paid parking is available nearby.
  • Public Transport: Directly connected to McGill Metro Station and several bus routes.
  • Costs: Mid-range for shopping; dining at Time Out Market can be pricier but worth it for the quality.
  • Tips: Use the Underground City to explore other nearby malls like Complexe Desjardins and Place Montreal Trust without stepping outside in winter.

3. Rockland Centre

  • Location: 2305 Chemin Rockland, Montreal, QC
  • Overview: A smaller, upscale mall catering to a more refined shopping experience.
  • Popular Stores:
    • High-end: Massimo Dutti, Judith & Charles
    • Mid-range: Zara, H&M, Lululemon
    • Department Stores: Simons
  • Food Court Options: A mix of fast food and sit-down options, including local favorites like Première Moisson (bakery).
  • Entertainment: Limited entertainment options, but the mall’s calm atmosphere is ideal for relaxed shopping.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible.
  • Opening Hours: 10 AM - 6 PM (Mon-Wed), 10 AM - 9 PM (Thu-Fri), 9 AM - 5 PM (Sat), 10 AM - 5 PM (Sun).
  • Parking: Free parking available.
  • Public Transport: Accessible via bus routes, but no direct metro connection.
  • Costs: Mid to high range.
  • Tips: Ideal for those looking for a quieter shopping experience away from the downtown hustle.

4. Complexe Desjardins

  • Location: 150 Sainte-Catherine Street West, Montreal, QC
  • Overview: A unique shopping and cultural hub located near Place des Arts, this mall is part of the Underground City and often hosts events and exhibitions.
  • Popular Stores:
    • Fashion: Aldo, RW&CO.
    • Specialty: SAQ (liquor store), Pharmaprix (pharmacy)
  • Food Court Options: Offers a variety of cuisines, including local favorites like St-Hubert (rotisserie chicken).
  • Entertainment: Hosts cultural events, especially during festivals like the Montreal Jazz Festival.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible.
  • Opening Hours: 10 AM - 6 PM (Mon-Wed), 10 AM - 9 PM (Thu-Fri), 10 AM - 5 PM (Sat-Sun).
  • Parking: Paid parking available.
  • Public Transport: Connected to Place-des-Arts Metro Station.
  • Costs: Affordable to mid-range.
  • Tips: Check the event calendar before visiting to catch live performances or exhibitions.

5. Place Montreal Trust

  • Location: 1500 McGill College Avenue, Montreal, QC
  • Overview: A modern shopping center located on Sainte-Catherine Street, known for its iconic indoor fountain.
  • Popular Stores:
    • Fashion: Zara, Indigo (bookstore), Fossil
    • Specialty: DeSerres (art supplies)
  • Food Court Options: Offers a variety of fast food and casual dining options.
  • Entertainment: Limited, but the mall’s proximity to other downtown attractions makes it a convenient stop.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible.
  • Opening Hours: 10 AM - 9 PM (Mon-Sat), 11 AM - 6 PM (Sun).
  • Parking: Paid parking available nearby.
  • Public Transport: Connected to McGill Metro Station.
  • Costs: Mid-range.
  • Tips: Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

Cultural and Local Preferences

  • Montrealers value quality and style, so you’ll find a mix of high-end and unique local brands in most malls.
  • Food courts often feature local specialties like poutine, smoked meat sandwiches, and artisanal pastries.
  • Shopping during sales seasons (Boxing Day, Black Friday, and end-of-season sales) can help you save significantly.

General Tips for Visiting Montreal Malls

  1. Language: While most staff speak English, French is the primary language in Montreal. A simple “Bonjour” goes a long way.
  2. Currency: Prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted.
  3. Tax Refunds: Tourists may be eligible for tax refunds on certain purchases. Keep your receipts and check eligibility.
  4. Weather Considerations: In winter, use the Underground City to stay warm while exploring downtown malls.
  5. Public Transport: Montreal’s metro and bus system are efficient and connect most major malls. Consider purchasing an OPUS card for easy travel.
  6. Peak Times: Weekends and evenings can be crowded, especially at downtown malls. Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience.

Montreal’s shopping malls offer a mix of global brands, local charm, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a place to relax, these malls cater to all needs. Enjoy your visit!