10 Best Markets in Montreal

Jean Talon Market is by far the best-known market in Montreal. Located in the city’s Little Italy district, this particular market has historically drawn in plenty of immigrants. And luckily for us, that means that it’s home to all sorts of tasty international flavours and products.

Take a culinary trip to Syria with a meal at Les Filles Fattoush. Enjoy some Mexican-inspired cuisine at Mazorca MTL. Or fully embrace Quebecois flavours with a slice of maple sugar pie from Les Suceries de L’Erable.

With its canal-front location, soaring clock tower, art deco architecture, Marché Atwater looks like it was plucked from the charming streets of Europe. And while you could certainly just enjoy the fairy tale-like atmosphere, the vendors are the real highlight of this Montreal market.

The best markets in Montreal are all known for one prime ingredient. For Marché Atwater, it’s fresh, local meats, so the butchers and delicatessens are must-visit vendors. Snag yourself a prime cut of steak for a fancy dinner or a few cured meats for a trendy charcuterie board.

Marché Maisonneuve originally opened in 1910 and quickly became a hotspot for local ingredients. Farmers, fishmongers, and butchers all set up shop here for over 50 years – that is, until it was closed in the 1960s by the municipality.

But the locals weren’t willing to let Marché Maisonneuve go that easily. Thanks to their persistence, this Montreal market reopened again in 1980. Slowly but surely, vendors – old and new alike – claimed a spot in the new-and-improved Marché Maisonneuve. Today, this market is once again one of the best places in town for local ingredients, including fresh vegetables, organic meats, and artisan cheeses.

Opened in 1845, Marché de Lachine – or Lachine Market – has welcomed millions of visitors over its nearly two centuries in business. Despite its age, Marché de Lachine also happens to be the smallest market in the city, but it’s still undoubtedly worth a visit. It’s quality over quantity, after all!

Marché de Lachine is known specifically for its high-quality cheeses and delectable pastries. Pair those treats with a few other market finds and you’ve got yourself a tasty picnic lunch.

Marché Bonsecours is an artisanal market of sorts. It’s where you’ll want to head for chic gifts and sophisticated souvenirs. Quebecois designer clothing, indigenous arts, and local maple syrup treats are just the beginning.

While the wares at Marché Bonsecours are wonderful, they’re not the main highlight of this Montreal market. That claim goes to the jaw-dropping building and its incredible architecture. Surprisingly, this elaborate domed building was originally designed as a market building. Then, like a self-fulfilling prophecy, it became the home of Montreal City Hall for a 25-year span. But throughout its nearly 200-year history, Marché Bonsecours has always had a place in this ornate building.

Marché aux Puces Saint-Eustache has absolutely everything you could ever dream of. This massive indoor-outdoor flea market is home to over 100 year-round vendors – along with a few seasonal ones – making it a fantastic place to simply wander and get lost amongst the shops.

As you stroll, you’ll come across all sorts of goodies. Splurge on high-quality jewellery, get yourself a freshly baked treat to snack on, peruse some video game memorabilia, or even buy yourself a new guitar during your visit!

While many of Montreal’s best markets run year-round, that’s not the case for Marché des Possibles. This unique outdoor event is only open in the summer when you can enjoy the festival fun with the warm Quebecois sunshine.

From the end of June to the end of September, Marché des Possibles is the place to go for all things creative. Film screenings, craft fairs, live music, and art workshops are just a few of the incredible activities you can enjoy at this Montreal market.

If you’re into antiques, Marché Aux Puces Saint-Michel is a must-visit during your time in Montreal. This indoor flea market is home to all sorts of old-timey wares that would make fantastic additions to any home. From sparkling chandeliers and gilded mirrors to retro vinyls and pop art pieces, Marché Aux Puces Saint-Michel has something for everyone.

Haggling is welcome! If you see a piece that you love, feel free to negotiate with the vendors to get yourself the best deal.

As one of the lesser-known markets in Montreal, Marché Jean-Brillant truly is a hidden gem. This market is overflowing with a wide array of fresh produce – from local berries to imported tropical fruits. And let’s not forget to mention the juicy apples from the owners’ own orchards.

As if the fresh fruits and veggies weren’t enough, Marché Jean-Brillant is also home to dozens of bright, blooming flowers. With thriving potted plants and beautifully arranged bouquets to peruse, you’re practically guaranteed to go home with some sweet-smelling blossoms.

Time Out Market Montréal is quite a bit different from the rest of the markets in the city. While most of the other spots have farmers’ market or flea market vibes, Time Out Market Montréal is more of an upscale food hall.

There are dozens of fantastic eateries here, but a few have found a way to stand out from the crowd. Savour some authentic Haitian food from Paul Toussaint, bite into a slice of piping hot Neapolitan-style pizza from Moleskine, or slurp on flavourful Japanese ramen from Marusan.