Hotel Chrome Montréal Centre-Ville

The hotel makes a nice first impression, especially on sunny days when tons of light cascades into the modern lobby from two banks of windows. The lobby consists of a two-story, atrium-style space that features large pieces of Impressionist-style art and a cluster of oval chandeliers in bright orange and white. The same orange is repeated in the leather armchairs that sit next to light brown leather sofas. Bright-white walls make the colors pop a little more. People stay at this busy hotel for all sorts of reasons -- its downtown location, budget-friendly rates, and proximity to the university and hospital. Lester’s Deli and Lester’s Bar, modern and colorful with hardwood floors and orange accents, attract locals and guests alike. 

Centrally located, the Chrome is a three-minute walk to the University of Quebec and adjacent to Quartier des Spectacles entertainment district that’s full of restaurants along Rue St. Catherine. It’s a five-to-seven minute walk to two subway stations, making it simple to get anywhere in the city. Chinatown is a six-minute walk away, and Old Montreal is a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Gay Village is 11 minutes away by public transportation, or a 20-minute walk, and Place des Arts is an eight-minute walk. City Center is an eight-minute drive or 14-minute walk from the hotel. Trudeau Airport is a 27-minute drive or about 45 minutes away on public transportation. 

Despite bright white bedding and cream-colored walls, Standard Rooms are a touch dark with brown drapes and multi-toned brown carpeting. Color pops come from orange bed throws and matching wood furniture with an amber finish. The Deluxe Queen Room we saw had an oversize armchair, coffee table, and sleeper sofa. Standard Queen and Double-Double Rooms are smaller, but still have generously sized desks and large closets. Standard amenities include Keurig coffeemakers, flat screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are of average size, with white tile walls, shower/tub combos, pedestal sinks, and gray-tile floors. Wood shelving provides ample space for toiletries. The suite we saw had a roomy walk-in shower with clear glass doors, more space, and nicer tile than other rooms. Some past guests have criticized maintenance and upkeep, and complaints have ranged from stained sheets and carpeting to torn wallpaper and musty smells. Ambient noise from other rooms and the busy street below can be heard at times through the thin walls. 

This former Days Inn's amenities are a step up from typical budget properties. It includes Lester’s Deli and Bar that serves breakfast (not included in room rates), lunch, and dinner, along with drinks. The modern and colorful bar has several slot machines as well. Outdoor seating is available, weather permitting. The hotel has limited parking in an underground garage, and other parking options are nearby. Meeting space for up to 100 people is available, and the lobby has a computer and printer for guests' use. Valet dry cleaning and laundry services are available, and Wi-Fi is free. The hotel also has an ATM and vending machines.