
Clock Tower
Iconic Montreal Clock Tower, a historic maritime memorial offering stunning Old Port views. Climb to the top for panoramic vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Interior access & fewer crowds

Clock Tower
Best Time
Interior access & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Montreal Clock Tower, a historic maritime memorial offering stunning Old Port views. Climb to the top for panoramic vistas.
"A beautiful and historic landmark that everyone should see at least once."

Check Interior Access Hours
The tower's interior is often seasonal. Verify opening times before your visit to climb to the top. :ticket:
Walkable from Old Montreal
Easily accessible by foot from Old Montreal; enjoy the scenic stroll along the waterfront. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Climb to the Top
Interior of the Clock Tower
Ascend approximately 192 steps for panoramic views of the Old Port and St. Lawrence River.

Historic Maritime Memorial
Base of the Clock Tower
Admire the stunning architecture dedicated to sailors lost at sea, a poignant piece of Montreal's history.

Old Port Waterfront Views
Surrounding area
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the St. Lawrence River, La Ronde, and the Biodome from the tower's vicinity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Interior Access
Parking and Access Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Are people still allowed to climb the Old Port Clock Tower?
Check Interior Access Hours
The tower's interior is often seasonal. Verify opening times before your visit to climb to the top.
:ticket:Walkable from Old Montreal
Easily accessible by foot from Old Montreal; enjoy the scenic stroll along the waterfront.
:athletic_shoe:Which of these things should I combine to do in one day?
Clock tower beach
Consider Parking Fees
Parking near the tower can be costly. Explore alternative parking in Old Montreal and walk.
:car:Appreciate from Outside
Even when closed, the tower's exterior is striking and offers great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Interior Access Hours
The tower's interior is often seasonal. Verify opening times before your visit to climb to the top.
:ticket:Walkable from Old Montreal
Easily accessible by foot from Old Montreal; enjoy the scenic stroll along the waterfront.
:athletic_shoe:Consider Parking Fees
Parking near the tower can be costly. Explore alternative parking in Old Montreal and walk.
:car:Appreciate from Outside
Even when closed, the tower's exterior is striking and offers great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Montreal Clock Tower is a beloved historic landmark offering stunning waterfront views and a connection to the city's maritime past. Visitors appreciate its striking architecture and the rewarding climb to the top when accessible. However, seasonal interior access and potential parking costs are points to consider.
"Here is tge famous iconic clock tower of Montreal, right by the coast in the old district. It is a popular place for locals to do running and cycling. It can be a very good experience to go around the tower and admire the beauty of the structure which has been in Montreal for a very long time."
Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari
"The Montreal Clock Tower is a beautiful and historic landmark that everyone should see at least once. Built between 1919 and 1922, it was dedicated to sailors who died at sea and also functioned as a lighthouse for the port. The architecture is stunning and when it is open you can climb about 192 steps to reach the top. It is worth noting that you cannot always go inside since according to Google the interior is generally only open in the summer and during specific hours. Even when closed, the tower is striking to see up close and the surrounding views of the Old Port, the St. Lawrence River, La Ronde, and even the Biodome across the bridge are incredible. It is also very accessible. You do not need a car or a tour to get there, you can simply walk, and even though the road feels long it is actually a very quick trip.
When I visited with my dad at around 9:45 in the morning, there were two other people nearby and unfortunately I came across something that really shocked me. Behind the tower there was human faeces. It did not smell but I was so disgusted I nearly threw up. I do not know who did it or what the situation was, but this is not acceptable in such a public and meaningful place. There were also signs of vandalism around the area, which was disappointing to see. There are many public washrooms available in Montreal, so there is no reason for this kind of behaviour. Staff were not yet on site since the tower does not open until 11 AM, so I could not report it at the time, but I hope it was cleaned up and addressed quickly after.
Even with that unpleasant surprise, the Clock Tower itself remains a very special landmark. The history, the design, and the views make it unforgettable. It is a true gem in the Old Port and I would still recommend visiting to appreciate its beauty and significance. 🕰️🗼"
Google User
"Fun spot to sit on the artificial beach or just gaze at the water rushing bye. Plus I have a geocache placed here!"
Tim Eccles
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Clock Tower is located at the entrance of the Old Port of Montreal. It's easily accessible by walking from Old Montreal. If driving, be aware that parking directly at the tower may incur fees, so consider parking in the Old City and enjoying a scenic walk along the waterfront.
While there isn't a direct metro station to the tower itself, you can take the metro to stations near Old Montreal (like Place-d'Armes) and then enjoy a pleasant walk to the tower.
Yes, the area around the Clock Tower is popular for cycling. There are bike paths along the waterfront, making it a great option for exploring the Old Port.
From downtown, you can take a bus that heads towards the Old Port, or take the metro to a nearby station and walk. The walk itself offers lovely views of the city and river.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be expensive, especially if you want access to the beach and yachts. Many visitors opt to park in Old Montreal and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can admire the Clock Tower from the outside for free. However, to climb to the top, you typically need to purchase a ticket, and interior access is usually limited to the summer months.
The exterior is always accessible. For interior access and the climb, hours are generally limited to summer and specific times. It's best to check local listings closer to your visit.
Pricing for climbing the tower can vary. While the exterior is free, there's usually a fee for the interior climb. Specific costs should be confirmed with local authorities or visitor centers.
You can see and walk around the Clock Tower year-round. However, the ability to go inside and climb to the top is typically restricted to the warmer months, usually summer.
Access to the artificial beach and yacht areas near the Clock Tower may require a parking fee, which can be substantial. You can still enjoy views of the tower from the walking path without paying for parking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the historic architecture, learn about its maritime history, and, if open, climb the 192 steps to the top for panoramic views of the Old Port and St. Lawrence River. The surrounding area also offers waterfront activities and a beach.
From the top, you get incredible views of the Old Port, the St. Lawrence River, La Ronde amusement park, and even the Biodome across the bridge. It's a fantastic vantage point.
Yes, families can enjoy the exterior views and the surrounding waterfront. Climbing the tower might be challenging for very young children due to the stairs.
Built between 1919-1922, the tower was erected to commemorate sailors lost at sea and also served as a lighthouse for the port. It's a significant historical landmark in Montreal.
Public washrooms are generally available in the Old Port area, though their proximity and availability can vary.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities exist from the waterfront, capturing the tower against the river and sky. The surrounding Old Port area also offers charming backdrops.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for dramatic shots. Midday can be harsh, but the tower's imposing structure still makes for a striking image.
If the interior is open, photography is usually permitted, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions. The stairwell itself can make for interesting shots.
Try capturing it from the artificial beach area for a different perspective, or from a distance across the river for a wider cityscape shot.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the full tower and its surroundings. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions or long exposures of the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Beacon of History: The Montreal Clock Tower's Past
Visitors today can appreciate the tower's historical context by understanding its dedication. The approximately 192 steps inside lead to a viewing platform that offers a unique perspective on the Old Port and the St. Lawrence River. While the interior access is seasonal, the exterior itself is a powerful reminder of the lives and livelihoods connected to the sea. The surrounding area, once a hub of commercial activity, now offers a more recreational space, but the tower remains a constant, silent guardian of the harbor's stories.
Experiencing the Clock Tower: Views and Accessibility
Even when the interior is closed, the tower remains an impressive sight. The surrounding area is perfect for leisurely walks, cycling, or simply sitting by the water. The artificial beach nearby offers a unique spot to relax and enjoy the waterfront ambiance. While direct parking can be costly, the tower is easily reachable on foot from Old Montreal, making it an accessible attraction for most visitors. The walk itself is part of the experience, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of the historic port.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit