Saint-Paul Street

Rue Saint-Paul, the oldest in Montreal

The Montreal audio-guided tour takes you along Rue Saint-Paul, the oldest and most history-rich street in the city. As early as 1645, shortly after the founding of Ville-Marie, its layout already existed, in the heart of what is today Old Montreal.

A tribute to Maisonneuve

The street bears the name of Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve who, with Jeanne Mance, is one of the founders of Montreal. Looking at a map of the city, you notice that the streets of Old Montreal are the only ones not laid out at right angles, a legacy of their age. Rue Saint-Paul has kept its historic character over the centuries.

What there is to see

Lined with old buildings, galleries, shops and restaurants, Rue Saint-Paul is one of the prettiest in Montreal. You come across in particular the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours chapel. Partly pedestrian, it invites you to stroll on its cobblestones, in an atmosphere reminiscent of old European towns.

Practical information

Rue Saint-Paul crosses Old Montreal, in the Ville-Marie borough. It can be walked freely at all hours; part of it is pedestrian. Cobbled, it calls for good shoes; shops and restaurants keep their own hours.

How long has Rue Saint-Paul existed?

Its layout existed as early as 1645, shortly after the founding of Ville-Marie. It is the oldest street in Montreal.

Where does the name Rue Saint-Paul come from?

It honours Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve, one of the founders of Montreal with Jeanne Mance.