From a built heritage of great value, the architects who renovated Old Montreal in order to turn it into an upscale residential district, competed in resourcefulness to make use of rooftops to install swimming pools, private and public terraces, spas and even landscaped gardens , often with spectacular views of the surrounding historical buildings, the Old Harbour and St. Lawrence River as well as of the skyscrapers of downtown Montreal.

In addition to its mission as Montreal’ s maritime dock and terminal where many cruise ships and commercial vessels stop over, the Old Port welcomes many smaller local short cruise services, such as the Bateau-Mouche . Perhaps the busiest tourist attraction in Montreal, there is a large public park, the Montreal Science Centre, Pavillon Jacques-cartier, the IMAX cinema and many popular shows such as Cirque du Soleil and Cirque Eloize.

Everywhere in Old Montreal, in almost all the streets you will find buildings of great historical or architectural importance, that make it an ideal place for enjoyable walks. The Musée de la Pointe-à-Callière at Place Royale, the Ernest Cormier Building, Union Station, the Old Municipal Court of Montreal, the Youville Pumping Station, the Montreal Historical Centre, the old Palais de Justice, the Bonsecours Market, CityHall, and the Château de Ramezay are only some of these dozens of significant public buildings.

Old Montreal wins first prize with regards to offering the largest number of specialized hotels, restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. Whether you feel frivolous, fun-loving, gourmet or highbrow, Old Montreal will satisfy your mood. You're looking for the landmark gourmet meal or a poutine-type snack, the trendiest boutique hotel or a youth hostel, the autentiic work of art or the absolute kitschiest object, you will find it here.