Old Port of Montreal Tours and Activities

Photo provided by © Old Port of Montréal Corporation Inc., A.P.E.S.
Old Port of Montreal
Old Port of Montreal
Old Port of Montreal
Old Port of Montreal


Historic architecture, modern attractions and an exciting calendar of festivals make it impossible to get bored at this lively and scenic riverfront space.

The Old Port of Montréal is an excellent place to start your journey around the city’s historic area.Locals and tourists alike flock to the port in their millions every year, drawn by its mix of fascinating history and contemporary culture.

Look for signs of the port’s impressive age. It dates back to the 17th century and many beautiful historic buildings are still dotted around the area. It is due to the port’s prominent role in facilitating trade, initially largely in fur, that Montréal grew into the thriving city it is today.

The Montréal Clock Tower is one of the most conspicuous older buildings along the riverfront. The construction of the bright white tower finished in 1922. Use its unmistakable form to orient yourself as you explore the port. Climb its 192 steps to be rewarded with glorious views of the city. Afterward, relax with a cold drink on the little urban beach just in front of the tower.

Another sight you can’t miss is the Montréal Science Centre. Stroll past it after night falls to admire the pretty reflections its bright lights cast on the water. Come during the day to discover the wide range of interactive exhibits that make this museum such a hit with all ages.

Make the most out of the ever-changing menu of outdoor activities offered in and around the port. In the warmer months, soar above the city on a zip line or take to the water in a pedal boat, a speedboat or a yacht. Or ensure you take home a great catch by heading out on a guided fishing tour.

Visit the Natrel ice rink at the right time of year and you’ll find yourself in a winter wonderland. When the conditions are right, the artificial ice rink here is supplemented by a natural one. Skate this wide-open space against the gorgeous backdrop of the Montréal skyline.

Get the subway to Champ-de-Mars, Place d'Armes or Square-Victoria and you can be at the Old Port of Montréal in just minutes. Exploring this picturesque area is a highlight of any trip to Montréal.

Plan a trip to see Old Port of Montreal

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Best Lodging Options Near Old Port of Montreal

Hotel Bonaventure Montreal

Hotel Bonaventure Montreal

4 out of 5
900 rue De La Gauchetiere West, Montreal, QC
Hotel Bonaventure Montreal
Hotel Chrome Montreal

Hotel Chrome Montreal

3 out of 5
215 Boulevard René-Lévesque Est, Montreal, QC
Hotel Chrome Montreal
Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth

4.5 out of 5
900 Boulevard Rene Levesque West, Montreal, QC
Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth
Hotel Place d'Armes

Hotel Place d'Armes

4.5 out of 5
55, Saint-Jacques West, Montreal, QC
Hotel Place d'Armes
Hampton Inn by Hilton Montreal Downtown

Hampton Inn by Hilton Montreal Downtown

3 out of 5
985-A ST LAURENT BLVD, Montreal, QC
Hampton Inn by Hilton Montreal Downtown
Hotel Faubourg Montreal

Hotel Faubourg Montreal

3 out of 5
155 Rene Levesque Boulevard East, Montreal, QC
Hotel Faubourg Montreal
Le St Martin Hotel Particulier Montreal

Le St Martin Hotel Particulier Montreal

4 out of 5
980 Boul. De Maisonneuve West, Montreal, QC
Le St Martin Hotel Particulier Montreal
DoubleTree by Hilton Montreal

DoubleTree by Hilton Montreal

4 out of 5
1255 Jeanne-Mance, P.O. Box 130, Montreal, QC
DoubleTree by Hilton Montreal
Hotel Zero 1

Hotel Zero 1

3.5 out of 5
01 Rene-Levesque Blvd. Est, Montreal, QC
Hotel Zero 1
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Old Port of Montreal

Discover the charm of Old Port of Montreal, where you can enjoy art, theatre, and live music. Take a leisurely romantic walk along the waterfront and relax at the sandy beach, perfect for soaking up the sun. With a vibrant atmosphere, Old Port offers a delightful blend of activities that cater to all tastes, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a memorable experience in this historic area.

Shopping

In Old Port of Montreal, visit Bonsecours Market, a vibrant public market 483m away, offering local crafts and food. Complexe Desjardins, 1.1km away, features entertainment and shopping. If you're up for a drive, check out Place Ville-Marie, 1.4km away, with more shopping options.

Recreation

Experience the thrill of live sports at the Bell Centre, only a mile from Old Port. For relaxation, indulge in soothing treatments at Bota Bota, Spa on a Boat, just 483m away. Unwind in luxury at the Mount Royal Club, also a mile from the vibrant waterfront.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, located 1.6km from Old Port of Montreal, where you can soak in the sports atmosphere. For breathtaking scenery, hike the 12.9km Sentier du Bocage, or hit the slopes at Mont Saint-Bruno Ski Resort, 11.6kms away.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Old Port of Montreal is vibrant and diverse. Experience thrilling views on La Grande Roue de Montréal, enjoy captivating performances at St. Denis Theatre, or indulge in a romantic film at Imperial Cinema. Each venue offers a unique atmosphere perfect for a memorable night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Old Port of Montreal

Old Port of Montreal offers a rich cultural experience with its historic buildings, stunning cathedrals, and vibrant piazzas. Visitors can explore iconic attractions in Old Montreal, such as the charming cobblestone streets and the lively waterfront, perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether wandering through historical sites or enjoying local events, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this captivating area.

  • Notre Dame Basilica: Experience the stunning architecture and vibrant history of this iconic cathedral. Its breathtaking stained glass windows and intricate woodwork create a serene atmosphere, making it a cultural highlight in Montreal.
  • Montreal Convention Centre: A hub of family entertainment, this venue hosts various events and exhibitions. Its modern design and spacious layout provide an engaging environment for visitors, perfect for those looking to explore arts and culture.
  • Jean-Drapeau Park: Enjoy the great outdoors in this expansive park, featuring beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and recreational facilities. Ideal for families, it offers a peaceful retreat amidst nature, just a short distance from the city centre.

Best time to go to Old Port of Montreal

The best time to visit Old Port of Montreal can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Old Port of Montreal falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Old Port of Montreal falls in January, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January15.8°F (-9.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
February18.0°F (-7.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
March28.4°F (-2.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
September61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November36.3°F (2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
December25.0°F (-3.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Old Port of Montreal

To save money during your visit to the Old Port of Montreal, consider travelling between January and March for lower accommodation rates. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to book, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and find eco-friendly options by applying filters. You can also save by bundling your flights, hotel, and activities into a package deal. Additionally, explore free activities in the area and take advantage of public transport to navigate the city affordably.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Old Port of Montreal are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Old Port of Montreal is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Old Port of Montreal is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search feature makes it easy for you to define your budget, preferred location, and other preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you’ll discover a range of sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in the Old Port of Montreal with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia