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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Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile
Hotel Birks Montreal
Hotel Place d'Armes

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Popular places to visit


Top Old Port of Montreal Hotel & Accommodation Deals

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
Hotel Place d'Armes

Hotel Place d'Armes

4.5 out of 5
55, Saint-Jacques West, Montreal, QC
Hotel Place d'Armes
Travelodge Hotel by Wyndham Montreal Centre

Travelodge Hotel by Wyndham Montreal Centre

3 out of 5
50 René-Lévesque St. West, Montreal, QC
Travelodge Hotel by Wyndham Montreal Centre
Hotel Faubourg Montreal

Hotel Faubourg Montreal

3 out of 5
155 Rene Levesque Boulevard East, Montreal, QC
Hotel Faubourg Montreal
Hotel Monville

Hotel Monville

4 out of 5
Montreal
Hotel Monville
Best Western Plus Montreal Downtown-Hotel Europa

Best Western Plus Montreal Downtown-Hotel Europa

3.5 out of 5
1240 Drummond Street, Montreal, QC
Best Western Plus Montreal Downtown-Hotel Europa
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 Le Cantlie Suites

Hotel Le Cantlie Suites

3.5 out of 5
1110, Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, QC
Hotel Le Cantlie Suites
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

Old Port of Montreal is a vibrant hub filled with activities, from art galleries and captivating theatre performances to lively live music events. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while exploring this historic area, offering a delightful mix of entertainment and relaxation, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere.

Shopping

In Old Port of Montreal, visit Bonsecours Market for local crafts and souvenirs, just 483m away. Complexe Desjardins, 1.1km away, offers a mix of shopping and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, Place Ville-Marie, 1.4km away, features a vibrant shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Bell Centre, where you can catch a thrilling sports event. For a unique outing, visit Olympic Stadium and explore its impressive architecture, followed by a stroll through Olympic Park, perfect for a leisurely walk and enjoying the outdoors.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, located 1.6km from Old Port. For skiing enthusiasts, Mont Saint-Bruno Ski Resort, 11.6kms away, offers fantastic slopes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery while hiking the Sentier du Bocage, situated 12.9km from the Old Port.

Nightlife

In Old Port of Montreal, Metropolis offers a vibrant theatre experience, while La Grande Roue de Montréal provides thrilling views from its ferris wheel. For a relaxed movie night, head to Imperial Cinema, where you can enjoy films in a romantic atmosphere. Each venue adds to the lively nightlife vibe.

*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 is a vibrant hub offering a mix of culture, history, and family-friendly experiences. Explore stunning cathedrals, historic buildings, and charming piazzas while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss nearby attractions such as Vieux Port and the iconic Port de Montréal, perfect for a day out filled with excitement and discovery.

  • Notre Dame Basilica: A stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, Notre Dame Basilica is a must-see for its breathtaking interior adorned with intricate woodwork and vibrant stained glass. Experience the spiritual atmosphere and the rich cultural history that permeates this iconic cathedral, located 483m from Old Port.
  • Montreal Convention Centre: This vibrant arena offers a variety of events and exhibitions, making it a hub of entertainment for families and tourists alike. With a distance of 805m from Old Port, it’s a great spot to catch a show or engage in local festivities.
  • Jean-Drapeau Park: Nestled on an island, this expansive park features beautiful walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the skyline. Just 1.6km from Old Port, it’s the perfect destination for families looking to enjoy outdoor activities and nature.

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 the lowest accommodation prices. Booking on a Tuesday can also help you find cheaper stays, while Saturday tends to be the priciest. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and look for package deals that combine accommodation, flights, and activities. Don’t miss out on free activities and take advantage of the city's efficient public transport system to explore the area without breaking the bank.

  • 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 tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Old Port of Montreal hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.