6 great places to get a rad tattoo in Montréal
Many adventurous folks fancy getting a tattoo when travelling so they can bring back an indelible memory of their trip. But when you’re unfamiliar with a new place, it can be hard to know where the most reputable (and safest!) tattoo artists or studios are. To help you find your way around, here’s a guide to six of the best tattoo studios in Montréal, along with practical tips to consider when getting a tattoo while on vacation.
Imago Tattoo Studio
Specialising in neo-Japanese, realist, minimalist and micropigmentation styles, the Imago team boasts an international reputation for a high-level work ethic. The studio was founded in 1997 with the aim of providing a healthy, comfortable and creative place for clients and tattoo artists to explore all the possibilities of the ancient art of tattooing.
Instagram : @imagotattoo
Number of tattoo artists: 8.
What languages can you be tattooed in? French and English.
Can you go without an appointment? Yes, walk-ins are always welcome, subject to availability.
To make an appointment: Call, email or book it in person if you happen to be passing by the studio. The team will put you in touch with the appropriate tattooist.
Rates: $140 per hour, with a minimum of $125 for small projects. To be discussed with the artist.
Tip for getting tattoos while travelling: Take some time when choosing your tattooist, considering the type of work and the result you desire. Don't compromise on the quality of the work because of time or other constraints. Give yourself the means to get the tattoo you’ve always dreamed of so that you can be proud of it for the rest of your life.
4097 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
Tatouage Royal
Founded in 2007, Tatouage Royal is an inclusive studio with a strong focus on customer service. The team specializes in a variety of styles, including traditional American, Japanese, realistic and more. Located in an old converted rowhouse, those who have visited will tell you that Tatouage Royal offers a warm, one-of-a-kind atmosphere with maximalist décor that will make you feel right at home.
Instagram : @tatouageroyal
Number of tattoo artists: Their team varies from 8 to 10.
What languages can you be tattooed in? French and English.
Can you go without an appointment? Yes, no problem.
To make an appointment: Call, email or private message on Instagram. It’s often possible to get an appointment the same week.
Rates: For smaller projects, a flat rate will be quoted. For large tattoos requiring several hours or several sessions, a rate of $150/hour applies.
Tip for getting tattoos while travelling: When you visit an experienced artist, it shouldn't be necessary to return to see him/her during your stay for touch-ups. However, be sure to follow the instructions given and take good care of your tattoo.
4424 St-Denis Street
Oly Anger Tattoo
Located in the epicentre of Old Montréal, Oly Anger is a versatile studio founded in 2009 that relies on the experience of a diverse array of artists to offer you a variety of different styles. The team places a high priority on top-quality customer service, offering advice that ensures your tattoo lasts a long time and providing a comfortable experience from start to finish. You’re welcome to drop in and say hello when you visit the Old Town!
Instagram : @olyangertattoo
Number of tattoo artists: More than 20.
What languages can you be tattooed in? French and English.
Can you go without an appointment? Yes, many people show up every day without an appointment.
To make an appointment: Via their website, social networks or directly with the artist of your choice. It’s often possible to get an appointment quickly.
Rates: It depends on the project.
Tip for getting tattoos while travelling: Opt for a smaller design that can be done in a single session, as time may be limited by the length of your visit. It’s advisable to plan your tattoo towards the end of your trip, as post-tattoo care requires special attention and limits activities such as sunbathing and swimming. You should also avoid getting a tattoo on heavily tanned or sunburnt skin.
9 de la Commune Street West
Velours
Velours is a creative studio founded in 2019 that operates at the intersection of tattooing, design and music. Each tattooist is a multidisciplinary artist and most have a background in design, making it the number one destination for typographic, graphic and contemporary tattoos. The cutting-edge space includes a music studio and is designed to be flexible to accommodate events. And you’re always welcome to pop by for a coffee (one of the neighbouring shops makes excellent cookies)!
Instagram: @velours.studio
Number of tattoo artists: 6.
What languages can you be tattooed in? French, English, Spanish and several other languages.
Can you go without an appointment? Yes, but it’s advisable to call ahead.
To make an appointment: Go to the studio’s website.
Rates: The minimum rate is $120 per project. Hourly rates vary between $150 and $250 per hour, depending on the artist.
Tip for getting tattoos while travelling: It’s important to avoid anything that could interfere with the healing process, such as crowded spaces, spas, sweating or training. You should avoid arriving hungry, tired or under the influence of any substances. It's also advisable to take good care of your body in the days leading up to your tattoo (healthy diet, hydration and skin moisturizing). Your body undergoes an invasive procedure during tattooing, so it needs to be as healthy and strong as possible in order to heal properly.
5141 Notre-Dame Street West
Tattoo Lounge
Established in 2007, Tattoo Lounge is among the best places to get a tattoo in Montréal. Perfectly located a few minutes walk from Saint-Laurent métro, the studio offers an inclusive, high-quality, clean and safe service. Their highly experienced team of tattoo artists and piercers will be with you every step of the way to ensure that your tattoo or piercing meets your expectations. Tattoo Lounge’s specialities include old school, new school, traditional American, blackwork, Japanese and neo-traditional designs.
Instagram : @tattooloungemtl
Number of tattoo artists: A team of 7 to 10, as well as 2 piercers.
What languages cany you be tattooed in? French and English.
Can you go without an appointment? Indeed, you can. Two artists are generally available for walk-ins. However, it’s recommended that you call ahead on the day of your visit.
To make an appointment: Call, email or private message on Instagram.
Rates: Price varies depending on size, detail and complexity of design. Tattoo rates are charged by the piece or by the hour. The minimum charge is $120.
Tip for getting tattoos while travelling: When possible, it’s advisable to select and research the tattooist you want to work with before travelling, and then ideally make an appointment with the chosen artist. It is also important to follow post-tattoo care and follow the instructions for optimal healing.
3672 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
Bodkin
Dominique Bodkin is a highly acclaimed individual artist who specialises in blackwork and linework, among other things. Founded in 1963, Bodkin Tattoo continues a family tradition, passing on the art of tattooing from father to daughter. As a passionate artist, Dominique Bodkin puts her expertise at the service of your creation, offering you an experience that goes beyond the aesthetic. Your story, your ideas and your emotions become essential elements of the artistic process.
Instagram : @bodkintattoo
Number of tattoo artists: Just one, Dominique Bodkin.
What languages can you be tattooed in? French and English.
Can you go without an appointment? Yes, but it’s recommended that you contact the artist by email at the beginning of the day to check availability.
To make an appointment: To get a custom tattoo, it’s best to make an appointment in advance by email.
Rates: The hourly rate is $140/hour, with a minimum price of $120 for small walk-in projects.
Tip for getting tattoos while travelling: Choosing a session at the start of your trip gives you room to follow up with any questions if necessary. Opt for a professional studio and listen to the artists’ advice to ensure that your experience is a pleasant one and fully meets your artistic expectations. And can’t say it enough: pay close attention to post-tattoo care instructions. The only regret you might have is the regret you’d feel after not getting a tattoo in Montréal when you had the chance!
Steven Ross
Steven Ross has been penning since the age of 17. A communicator specializing in tourism and entertainment, he’s travelled the world as a senior publicist for Cirque du Soleil and worked for several festivals and video game studios. Passionate about travel, languages and history, it is to the rhythm of house music that his heart beats the strongest.