Historic Old Port transformed into vibrant waterfront destination with activities year-round. Summer brings zip lines, beach, and festivals. Winter features skating and light festivals. Scenic river views, cafes, and street performers.
Vieux-Port de Montréal (Old Port of Montreal) occupies a 2.5-kilometre waterfront strip along the St. Lawrence River at the base of Old Montreal, transformed from active commercial port to public leisure space through redevelopment that began in the 1990s. The Promenade du Vieux-Port along the river edge provides a flat, paved waterfront walkway lined with outdoor terrasses, market stalls, and views across to the St. Lawrence and the Île Sainte-Hélène. In summer, the Clock Tower Quay (Quai de l'Horloge) hosts climbing access to the interior of the 1922 maritime clock tower, and the Alexandra Quay operates a rooftop urban zipline and observation activities. The Cirque du Soleil was founded in nearby Baie-Saint-Paul, and the Vieux-Port has been a frequent base for the company's big-top productions. The Montreal Science Centre (Centre des sciences de Montréal) anchors the western end of the port with permanent and temporary science exhibitions across multiple floors, including an IMAX dome cinema. In winter, the outdoor rink at the Vieux-Port, one of the largest outdoor skating areas in Montreal, operates on the Alexandra Pier with skate rentals available on site. The Bonsecours Market heritage building at the port's eastern edge provides covered market space under its silver dome year-round. Access is on foot from the Old Montreal neighbourhood via numerous laneways and the Champ-de-Mars metro station.
Good to know
- Hours
- 24/7, attractions vary
- Best for
- families, couples, all ages
Location
333 Rue de la Commune Ouest, Montreal, QC H2Y 2E2
45.5086, -73.5541 View on map
Highlights
- Promenade du Vieux-Port — 2.5 km St. Lawrence waterfront promenade with terrasses and city views
- Clock Tower interior climb — access to the 1922 maritime tower with river panoramas from the top
- Montreal Science Centre and IMAX dome — permanent science exhibits and large-format cinema
- Winter outdoor skating rink on Alexandra Pier with rental equipment on site
- Bonsecours Market heritage building — silver-domed covered market at the port's eastern end
Tips for visiting
- Free outdoor activities in summer
- Montreal Science Centre worth visiting
- Stunning views from Clock Tower
When to visit
June through August offers the most outdoor programming, terrasse activity, and summer festivals. Winter (January–February) is popular for outdoor skating. The port is pleasant in autumn with river colours and reduced crowds.
Accessibility
The main promenade is paved and fully accessible for wheelchairs year-round. The winter skating rink area is accessible for spectators. The Clock Tower climb involves stairs and is not accessible. The Montreal Science Centre is fully accessible with elevator access between floors.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an admission fee to enter the Old Port?
The promenade, waterfront, and outdoor areas are free. The Montreal Science Centre, Clock Tower climb, and adventure activities are separately ticketed. The outdoor skating rink is free to use; skate rental is available for a fee.
What is the best way to get to Vieux-Port de Montréal?
The Champ-de-Mars metro station (Orange line) is a 5-minute walk. The port is also easily reached on foot from Old Montreal's main hotels and attraction cluster. A BIXI bike rental station operates near the port entrance.
How long does a visit to the Old Port take?
A stroll of the full promenade takes 45–60 minutes. Adding the Science Centre, Clock Tower, or any seasonal activity extends the visit to half a day or more.