Posh since 1866

Noteworthy for: This high-end department store still exudes old-world luxury with its chandeliers, spiral stairs and tree-lined aisles.

Word to the wise: Come here between 12noon and 1pm to experience an Ogilvy tradition: a bagpiper who roams through the store playing Scottish airs.

La Maison Ogilvy, or Ogilvy’s, dates back to 1866 and is the last of Montreal’s pioneering department stores to retain its original name. Ogilvy's is known for providing luxury shopping with British class, tradition and discretion, which has made it a mainstay with society dames.

This sense of heritage continues today with the ever-present Scottish pipers and its intricate Victorian-style Christmas displays. A must-see on the fifth floor is the 1920s oak-paneled music hall complete with a grand pipe organ, where classical performances were once performed live and broadcast through the radio.