Where to Stay in Montréal: Best Areas & Hotels

Montréal, the largest city in Canada’s Québec province, is famously known as “La Metropole” and stands out as a junction where the charm of old Europe meets the modernism of North America. It gained fame through the 1967 World’s Fair (Expo 67). Located on the Island of Montréal at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers, this city pulls its name from Mt. Royal, the triple-peaked hill at its heart. If you want to discover the best areas to stay in Montréal, this piece is for you!

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Accommodation Options in Montréal

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Montréal’s history stretches back to its establishment by French explorers in 1642. Today, historic Old Montréal preserves much of its colonial-era charm with cobblestone streets and buildings that date back to the 17th century. Among these are the Notre Dame Basilica and Bonsecours Market. The city’s significance has surged, developing a diverse tourist industry that welcomes millions each year. Visitors interested in accommodations have much to choose from, ranging from world-class luxury hotels to budget properties, reflecting Montréal’s status as a major tourist destination.

Montréal offers other notable attractions outside its historic districts, such as the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts, established in 1860, showcasing an extensive art collection spanning several millennia. The Biodôme allows guests to walk through replicas of four ecosystems found in the Americas. Additionally, Space for Life comprises several nature-focused institutions, including an insectarium and botanical garden, while Parc Jean-Drapeau provides outdoor activities on the islands where Expo 67 was hosted.

The city’s atmosphere incorporates a bilingual and cosmopolitan lifestyle interwoven with traditional Québecois culture. While business sectors thrive downtown near skyscrapers and conference centers like Palais des congrès de Montréal, areas like Plateau Mont-Royal provide a bohemian vibe with galleries and theaters. Each neighborhood displays a different aspect of Montréal’s multifaceted character.

Keep reading to discover more about this fascinating city and find your ideal accommodation within the best areas to stay in Montreal.

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What’s the best area to stay in Montreal, Canada?

The best area to stay in Montreal is Vieux Montréal because it offers an excellent combination of historic charm and modern amenities. The cobblestone streets and old buildings provide a unique atmosphere. You’ll find exceptional restaurants, bars, and boutiques amidst stunning architecture. Its prime location also means beautiful views and easy access to waterfront activities, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration.

Find available accommodation in Vieux Montréal.

Best Hotels in Vieux Montréal

• Best 4-star hotel: Maison Sainte-Thérèse By Maisons & co
• Best 3-star hotel: Le Petit Hôtel Vieux-Montréal – Saint-Paul by Gray Collection
• Best budget hotel: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Old Montreal
• Best serviced apartments: Sonder Apollon
• Best hostel: Auberge Alternative

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Where to Stay in Montréal for Sightseeing, Nightlife & Business

As mentioned above, the Old Town is the best location for visitors to Montreal. That said, there are many more areas offering different atmospheres and sights. These are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Montréal, QC:

• Old Montreal (Vieux Montréal) offers a charming blend of cobblestone streets and historic architecture, giving it an old-world European feel. The area is perfect for exploring art galleries, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants, all while enjoying the scenic views of the Old Port.
• Plateau Mont-Royal is a trendy neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere, colorful murals, and vibrant nightlife. This area is ideal for those who enjoy hip cafes, vintage shops, and outdoor activities at the nearby Mont Royal Park.
• Montréal’s Gay Village is one of the largest LGBTQ+ districts in the Americas, offering lively bars, clubs, and festivals. It’s a welcoming space that celebrates diversity with colorful street art and community events.
• Downtown Montreal, including the famous Golden Square Mile, is the city’s commercial heart featuring skyscrapers, malls, and cultural institutions like museums and theaters. This bustling area provides various dining and shopping options alongside luxury hotels.
• The Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) centers around education and creativity with its proximity to universities and theaters. The district has a youthful vibe with student-friendly cafes, bookshops, and performance spaces.
• Quartier des Spectacles is Montreal’s cultural pulse. Numerous festivals take place here throughout the year, and it’s surrounded by theaters, concert halls, and public art installations, making it a hub for entertainment.
• Mile End is famed for its eclectic arts scene and multicultural eateries. Known as a haven for artists and musicians, it’s filled with record shops, indie boutiques, and some of the best bagels in town.

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Best Areas to Stay in Montréal, Québec: District by District

Vieux Montreal is home to landmarks like the Notre-Dame Basilica and the Old Port, providing a picturesque setting for shopping, dining, and culture.

Why is this the best area to stay in Montreal:
• Stunning historical architecture
• Cobblestone streets
• Notre-Dame Basilica
• Lively Place Jacques-Cartier
• Old Port of Montreal
• Montréal Science Centre
• Picturesque waterfront views
• Horse-drawn carriages
• Boutique shopping
• Variety of gourmet restaurants

Vieux Montréal, also known as Old Montreal, is one of the most historically significant areas in the city. Situated along the Saint Lawrence River, this area represents the original settlement of the city dating back to the 17th century. The cobblestone streets, well-preserved buildings, and monuments provide a window into Montreal’s past.

Founded by French settlers in 1642, Old Montreal quickly developed as a vital center for trade and governance. The Place d’Armes square, with its impressive statue of Paul Chomedey de Maisonneuve—the founder of Montreal—serves as a focal point for exploring this historic district. Nearby stands the Notre-Dame Basilica, a breathtaking example of Gothic Revival architecture completed in 1829. Its grand interior features wood carvings and stunning stained glass windows depicting scenes from the bible and Montreal’s founding.

Another key attraction is the Pointe-à-Callière Museum, built on what is considered the birthplace of Montreal. The museum offers extensive archaeological displays and interactive exhibits showcasing the city’s development from Indigenous settlements to a contemporary urban center.

Walking along Rue Saint-Paul, you’ll encounter numerous art galleries, boutiques, and historical landmarks such as the Bonsecours Market—a neoclassical structure that has been an important public market since its opening in 1847.

When it comes to transportation, Vieux Montréal is well-connected to other parts of the city via several metro stations, including Champ-de-Mars and Place-d’Armes on the Orange Line. Additionally, numerous bus lines also serve the area.

Old Montreal offers a wide range of accommodation options catering to all budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels housed in historic buildings to modern boutique hotels.

Nightlife in Vieux Montréal is vibrant and appealing. Numerous bars and clubs offer everything from live jazz performances to dance floors pulsating with electronic music. Dining options abound, with many restaurants offering traditional Quebecois fare and international cuisine.

Throughout the year, Vieux Montréal hosts numerous cultural events, including outdoor concerts, festivals, and public art exhibitions, which contribute to its dynamic atmosphere.

Learn more about Vieux Montréal

Best Hotels in Vieux Montréal

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Plateau Mont-Royal is known for its bohemian vibe, colorful murals, and trendy boutiques.

Why is this the best area to stay in Montreal:
• Vibrant cultural scene
• Diverse restaurants and cafes
• Lovely parks and green spaces
• Trendy boutiques and shops
• Friendly and welcoming community
• Proximity to Mont Royal Park
• Historic architecture and charm

Plateau Mont-Royal is an iconic neighborhood in Montréal, approximately two miles northeast of Vieux-Montréal. Known for its young atmosphere and cultural vibrancy, It offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Québécois life.

Historically, the neighborhood has been a focal point of artists and intellectuals. In the early 20th century, it became a hotspot among bohemians. Today, it remains deeply influenced by this legacy, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues scattered throughout the area. The streets tell stories, with murals and street art decorating many buildings.

Architecturally, Plateau Mont-Royal is distinguished by its distinctive row houses, colorful facades, and spiraling exterior staircases. Strolling down Rue Saint-Denis or Avenue Mont-Royal showcases boutique shops, cafés, and independent bookstores.

Among its notable landmarks is Parc La Fontaine, a large urban park featuring ponds, trails, and outdoor theaters. It’s an ideal spot for picnicking or people-watching. Another significant site is the Théâtre du Rideau Vert on Rue Saint-Denis, which has been a cornerstone of French-speaking theater since its establishment in 1949.

Food enthusiasts will appreciate the many restaurants in the area. From traditional Québécois dishes to international cuisine, there is always something to satisfy every palate. Nightlife in Plateau Mont-Royal is lively yet approachable, with a mix of bars and live music venues like Casa del Popolo on Saint Laurent Boulevard.

Transportation in Plateau Mont-Royal is convenient. Several metro stations, including Mont-Royal and Laurier on the Orange Line, provide easy access to other parts of Montréal. Bus lines such as the 11 and 30 also run through the area regularly.

Accommodation options in Plateau Mont-Royal range from charming bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels. Overall, Plateau Mont-Royal stands out as a distinct part of Montréal that brims with cultural richness and historical depth.

Best Hotels in Plateau Mont-Royal, Montréal

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Montréal’s Gay Village is vibrant and inclusive, with Sainte-Catherine Street serving as the neighborhood’s main drag.

Why is this the best area to stay in Montreal:
• Lively LGBTQ+ community
• Bustling nightlife
• Trendy bars and cafes
• Eclectic restaurants
• Annual Pride festival
• Street art and murals
• Centrally located

Montreal’s Gay Village, located in the eastern part of downtown Montreal, is one of the largest and most vibrant LGBTQ+ districts in the world. It stretches along Sainte-Catherine Street, bounded roughly by Saint-Hubert Street to the west and Papineau Avenue to the east. The area was officially designated as an LGBTQ+ district in the 1980s, although its roots as a welcoming space for the community date back several decades earlier.

Historically, Gay Village began to take shape in the 1970s when many LGBTQ+-friendly businesses moved from their previous locations in other parts of Montreal to this more central area. The growth and establishment of bars, clubs, and cafes catering specifically to the LGBTQ+ community helped solidify its reputation as a safe and inclusive space.

The district is known for its lively nightlife and diverse range of venues. Popular nightclubs such as Unity and Sky Complex draw locals and tourists with their energetic atmospheres. Cabaret Mado, named after its famous drag queen proprietor Mado Lamotte, offers nightly drag performances that are a staple of Montreal’s queer entertainment scene. Additionally, numerous cafes, restaurants, and boutiques are lining Sainte-Catherine Street.

Cultural events are also integral to Gay Village’s identity. Each summer, Sainte-Catherine Street is transformed into a pedestrian-only zone adorned with art installations and hosting outdoor performances during the festival season. The most notable event is Montréal Pride (Fierté Montréal), which takes place every August and includes a parade, concerts, and community activities.

Transportation is convenient due to the proximity of multiple metro stations within walking distance. Beaudry Station on the Green Line is centrally located within Gay Village itself. Additionally, Papineau Station offers easy access to other parts of Montreal via public transit.

Best Hotels in Montreal’s Gay Village

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Downtown Montreal includes is renowned for upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Why is this the best area to stay in Montreal:
• Vibrant nightlife
• World-class museums
• Diverse culinary scene
• Historical landmarks
• Shopping districts
• Accessibility to public transport
• Cultural festivals

Located in the core of Montréal, Downtown Montréal is an area bustling with activity. It encompasses key streets such as Saint-Catherine Street, Sherbrooke Street, and René-Lévesque Boulevard. This area includes the renowned Golden Square Mile, which stretches up or down Mount Royal and was historically home to the city’s business elite in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Downtown Montréal is well-known for its unique cultural and commercial importance, as well as its many educational institutions. Home to multiple museums, such as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the McCord Museum, this district offers plenty of opportunities for those interested in history and art.

The presence of major universities such as McGill University and Concordia University adds a dynamic student presence to the area. McGill University’s campus, with its historic buildings, lies at the foot of Mount Royal Park, offering a peaceful green space.

When it comes to shopping and dining options, Saint Catherine Street serves as a major commercial thoroughfare lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés. The Underground City (RÉSO), an extensive network of underground pathways connecting several buildings and shopping centers, provides great entertainment and shopping options, especially during winter months.

Downtown Montréal’s nightlife is very diverse, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues providing an energetic atmosphere after dark. Crescent Street is particularly known for its nightlife scene.

Downtown Montréal’s transportation is highly efficient thanks to a well-developed public transit system operated by the Société de transport de Montréal (STM). This system includes several metro stations, such as Peel, Guy-Concordia, McGill, and Berri-UQAM. Multiple bus lines also provide excellent connectivity to other parts of the city.

Hotel accommodation in this area ranges from luxury hotels to boutique properties catering primarily to business travelers due to its proximity to major offices and convention centers like Palais des Congrès.

Best Hotels in Downtown Montreal

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The Quartier des Spectacles is the cultural epicenter of Montreal. Hosting numerous performances year-round, this district buzzes with energy from music shows, theatrical performances, and art installations.

Why is this the best area to stay in Montreal:
• Thriving cultural hub
• Year-round festivals
• World-class entertainment venues
• Abundant green spaces
• Proximity to the Museum of Contemporary Art
• Iconic Place des Arts
• Bustling nightlife

Quartier des Spectacles is a cultural district in downtown Montreal’s eastern part. This area occupies roughly one square kilometer and is bounded by Sherbrooke Street to the north, René-Lévesque Boulevard to the south, City Councillors Street to the west, and Saint-Hubert Street to the east. The district is renowned for being the epicenter of Montreal’s artistic and cultural life.

The origins of Quartier des Spectacles date back to the early 19th century when it began developing as a hub for theaters, cabarets, and other entertainment venues. By the mid-20th century, it had cemented its status as Montreal’s entertainment (and red-light) district. A significant development took place in 2003 when the initiative to transform and modernize the district was launched. Today, it hosts over 80 cultural venues and organizations, including theaters, concert halls, and galleries.

One of the key attractions includes Place des Arts, which opened in 1963 and remains one of Canada’s premier performing arts complexes. It encompasses multiple concert halls and theaters under one roof, offering performances ranging from ballet and opera to symphony orchestras.

Another notable site is the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal (MAC), established in 1964. MAC is dedicated solely to contemporary art and showcases works from Canadian and international artists. Its exhibitions feature visual art in various forms, such as painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia installations.

In addition to these institutions, Quartier des Spectacles is known for its numerous festivals and events that attract large crowds year-round. The most famous among these is the Montreal International Jazz Festival, held annually since 1980 and considered one of the largest jazz festivals globally. Other major events include Just for Laughs (le Festival Juste pour rire), an annual comedy festival founded in 1983, and Les Francos de Montréal, celebrating French music since 1989.

The area’s streets—such as Sainte-Catherine Street—become pedestrian zones during many of these festivals, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with outdoor performances, food stalls, and art installations. Sainte-Catherine Street is also known for its numerous shops, ranging from high-end boutiques to local retailers.

Best Hotels in the Quartier des Spectacles, Montréal

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With hipster coffee shops, vintage stores, and vibrant street art scenes, Mile End is a hub for those seeking originality.

Mile End is a neighborhood located in the Le Plateau-Mont-Royal borough of Montreal, approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 mi) northwest of Vieux Lyon. Known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, Mile End has emerged as a key cultural hub within the city. Historically, it developed as a working-class neighborhood during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with significant settlement by Jewish immigrants.

Attractions in Mile End are plentiful and diverse. St. Viateur and Fairmount Streets are renowned for their famous bagel shops. Another key attraction is the Rialto Theatre on Park Avenue, a historic theater designed in 1923 that now serves as a multipurpose cultural venue. Art enthusiasts will appreciate contemporary galleries such as Galerie Yves Laroche and the neighborhood’s numerous independent studios.

Mile End is also home to an eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, bookstores, and record shops. Montreal’s literary scene finds a haven in stores such as Drawn & Quarterly, while music lovers frequent venues like Casa del Popolo for live performances ranging from indie to experimental genres.

Montreal’s STM bus network serves the area, with major routes including the 55 on St. Laurent Boulevard and the 80 on Park Avenue. The Outremont Metro station (on the Blue Line) is nearby and provides easy connections to other parts of the city.

Best Hotels in Mile End, Montreal

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Lachine provides a quieter retreat compared to Montreal’s more central neighborhoods.

Lachine is a vibrant borough approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) southwest of the city center.

Lachine’s historical roots date back to its establishment in the 17th century as a key trading post and mission for explorers traversing the St. Lawrence River. The borough derives its name from the French word for China, “La Chine.” Early settlers and traders believed it marked an essential waypoint en route to Asia. The Lachine Canal, constructed in the early 19th century, cemented the area’s role as a crucial industrial hub. Today, the canal serves as a charming reminder of Lachine’s industrious past.

The area’s noteworthy sites include the Fur Trade at Lachine National Historic Site, which offers an insightful glimpse into Canada’s fur trade era. The Musée de Lachine, featuring art exhibitions and archaeological finds, resides within an 18th-century stone building. Moreover, René-Lévesque Park provides an extensive green space adorned with sculptures, offering places for relaxation and walks along Lake Saint-Louis.

Lachine’s location provides access to downtown Montréal via several major roads and highways. Public transportation services include buses linking directly to metro stations on lines like the Orange Line at Lionel-Groulx Station.

Best Hotels in Lachine, Montreal

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The Quartier Latin is popular among students and young professionals due to its proximity to several universities.

The Quartier Latin in Montreal is located near the city center and just a short distance from Old Montreal, approximately 0.8 miles (1.3 kilometers) away. This area is popular for its cultural and artistic ambiance.

Historically, the Quartier Latin has been associated with education and literature. The presence of institutions like the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) enhances this reputation. The area began to take on its current character in the late 19th century, growing as a hub for students and educators.

Attractions in the Quartier Latin include the Grande Bibliothèque, which opened in 2005. It offers extensive collections and serves as Quebec’s national library. It hosts numerous events and exhibitions throughout the year. Near UQAM, the Cinémathèque Québécoise showcases important contributions to film and television history through screenings and archives.

The nightlife in Quartier Latin is lively and diverse. Streets like Rue Saint-Denis have bars, clubs, cafes, and theaters. Saint-Denis Street is particularly known for its array of dining options covering different world cuisines.

Transportation is highly convenient in this district. The Berri-UQAM metro station is a major transit hub connecting three lines (Green, Orange, and Yellow). Buses are also readily available.

Best Hotels in the Quartier Latin, Montreal

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The Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL) area is convenient for short stays and early flights.

Montréal–Trudeau International Airport, located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) west of downtown Montreal, serves as the main international gateway to Quebec. It plays a major role in Canada’s air traffic network and is one of the busiest airports in the country (only surpassed by Toronto Pearson). The facility accommodates over 20 million passengers annually and is a hub for Air Canada, Air Transat, and Sunwing Airlines.

The airport offers key domestic routes, including Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. Its North American reach extends to major cities such as New York, Chicago, and Miami. Internationally, it provides significant European connections with flights to Paris, London, and Frankfurt.

For travelers facing long layovers or short visits, the area around Montréal–Trudeau International Airport proves convenient for brief stays. The nearby borough of Dorval offers several accommodations ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious establishments. These hotels often provide shuttle services to and from the airport terminals.

The airport is well-connected by various means of transportation. The 747 Express bus route runs 24/7 between the airport and Montreal’s central bus terminal, with intermediate stops along Boulevard René-Lévesque. For those preferring rail transport, the Dorval station on the VIA Rail network offers regional train services. Car rentals and taxis are also widely available, ensuring comprehensive mobility options.

Best Hotels near Montreal Airport

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Where to Look for Accommodation in Montreal: A Personal Take

During my recent visit to Montréal, I discovered that finding good accommodation largely hinges on location. If, like me, you’re looking to explore the LGBTQ area, staying near Saint Catherine Street is ideal. I opted for the three-star hotel Quality Inn Centre-Ville. It’s conveniently located close to Saint Catherine Street, which made it easy for me to explore various activities and nightlife without traveling far. The hotel was comfortable and met my basic needs, offering good value for money.

Saint Catherine Street is a central and lively area in Montréal, particularly known for its vibrant nightlife and vast dining options. Staying nearby puts you within walking distance of many attractions, such as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and Place des Arts. The Métro station is also easily accessible, allowing you to navigate the city efficiently. My stay at Quality Inn Centre-Ville was ok (not the best, not the worst); what truly made my visit enjoyable was the convenience of being so close to everything I wanted to see and do in the city.

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Staying in Montréal: Useful Information for Your Visit

Montréal is a vibrant, multicultural city with a rich history and diverse influences. The island city is known for its unique blend of European charm and North American dynamism. To better understand its culture, here are some tips:

First, language plays a significant role. Montréal is one of largest French-speaking cities outside of Paris. While most residents speak both French and English, trying to use French greetings and phrases can go a long way in social interactions.

Food is another cornerstone of Montréal culture. From poutine, a dish made of fries, cheese curds, and gravy, to Montreal-style bagels and smoked meat sandwiches, the culinary scene offers something for every palate.

Festivals are a year-round affair in Montréal. These include the world-renowned Just for Laughs comedy festival, the Montréal Jazz Festival, and Igloofest, an outdoor electronic music festival held in winter.

Public markets like Jean-Talon Market provide a glimpse into the local lifestyle. These markets are filled with fresh produce, local specialties, and artisan goods.

In terms of architecture, Old Montréal showcases beautiful cobblestone streets and historic buildings dating back to the 17th century. In contrast, modern architecture can be found in areas like Downtown Montréal.

The Montreal Biodome and Mount Royal Park are must-visit spots for nature lovers. Mount Royal Park offers stunning city skyline views and numerous outdoor activities.

Montréal’s nightlife is lively and diverse. From chic bars in Plateau Mont-Royal to vibrant nightclubs in the Gay Village, there’s no shortage of evening entertainment.

Public transportation, such as buses and the metro, is quite straightforward due to an extensive network covering all city quarters.

To find hotels in Montréal, identify which neighborhood you prefer to stay in. Montréal has several vibrant areas, each offering a unique flavor and amenities. Old Montréal is perfect for history lovers, providing cobblestone streets and classic architecture. The Plateau-Mont-Royal is known for its artistic vibe and myriad of cafes. Downtown Montréal offers a central location with access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Consider your budget when selecting a hotel. If you’re on a tight budget, look for accommodations in neighborhoods like Hochelaga-Maisonneuve or Mile End, which may offer more affordable options without sacrificing convenience. For mid-range budgets, the Gay Village or Little Italy provides numerous choices with boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. If you’re considering luxury, Downtown and Old Montréal boast some of the city’s most opulent hotels, complete with lavish amenities.

Read reviews to gauge the quality of service, cleanliness, and overall guest satisfaction. Reviews often provide insights into unexpected perks or potential downsides of the property.

Pay attention to location regarding public transportation access. Proximity to metro stations can significantly ease your travel around the city. It’s also worth considering hotels that include breakfast or have nearby dining options to save on meal expenses.

Safety should also be a priority. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, research neighborhood safety and select accommodations accordingly.

Lastly, book well in advance if you’re traveling during peak seasons like summer festivals or major holidays to secure the best rates and availability.

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