Ville-Marie is the oldest and most central of Montreal's boroughs. It is composed of several distinct neighbourhoods:
Centre-Ville (Downtown): the main commercial and business area, with many hotels and restaurants. Some housing also exists (typically at the high end of the spectrum), but most of the neighbourhood is commercial in character.
Vieux Montreal (Old Montreal) - the mainly historic part of Montreal, roughly corresponding to the city's 19th century footprint. Many old, beautiful buildings.
The Cité Multimédia - a former industrial suburb quickly filling with new condos and conversions. Located just west of Vieux Montreal.
The Quartier International - mostly office / commercial and hotel buildings, although a cluster of new condos allows this neighbourhood to claim a mixed-use character. Located north-west of Vieux Montreal (Old Montreal).
The Quartier des Spectacles - a neighbourhood under (re)development. The Quartier des Spectacles is already home to many entertainment venues and more will be added in the coming years.
Shaughnessy Village - a lively area west of rue Guy and east of rue Atwater. This area is both predominantly high-rise and residential - a rare mix in Montreal. Many of the residents are students and recent immigrants. Several condo buildings have been constructed since the early 2000's.
The Quartier Latin - a small area next to the UQAM (Université du Québec à Montréal) campus. A lively atmosphere, with many bars and restaurants, but also with more than its share of social problems.
The Village - an area east of the Quartier Latin. Home to many establishments targeting the city's gay community.
The General Hospital Area - a downtown-adjacent area at the foot of the mountain.
Chinatown - sometimes called "Chinablock" because of its miniscule size. Home to many Asian restaurants. Some housing has been built.
