Travel: Montreal

11am Marvel at the views from the Tour de Montreal, right (4545 Avenue Pierre de Coubertin). This is the world's tallest inclined structure, and offers an observation deck for an unbeatable view of the city.

2pm Discuss your afternoon plans over lunch in the garden patio of Caf Santropol (3990 Rue St-Urbain).

4pm Reacquaint yourself with the solar system at the Montreal Planetarium, whose dome is 20 metres high. Shows run for 50 minutes throughout the day.

5pm Put your feet up at the Place d'Armes Hotel (55 Rue St-Jacques Ouest, 001 514 842 1887). This boutique hotel in Old Montreal offers pure luxury with double rooms starting from 66 per night.

9pm Notice the trademark sign projected on the pavement when heading for dinner at Mozza (1208 Rue St-Catherine East, 001 514 524 0295). The food and service are excellent, so book in advance.

11pm Head to Club 737 (1 Place Ville Marie) for a cocktail and take in the spectacular view from the 43rd floor.

Sunday, 10am Shake off that fuzzy head with a refreshing walk through the Morgan Arboretum, a glorious forest reserve with trees from around the world.

1pm Sample some delicious mussels at Restaurant La Moulerie (1249 Avenue Bernard). There are two dozen varieties.

3pm Hit the shops in Avenue du Mont-Royal – a great range of second-hand, five and dime stores and modern boutiques.

5pm Stop off for a coffee at Brulerie St-Denis and sip your brew on the terrace.

8pm Visit the buzzy Chez L'picier (311 Rue Saint-Paul Est). If you have a sweet tooth, try the chocolate club sandwich.

The facts

Return flights from Edinburgh to Montreal start at 379 with British Airways (www.ba.com, 0844 493 0787).

This article first appeared in The Scotsman, Saturday February 13, 2010