Old Port - Beautiful de la Commune street in Montreal's Old Port
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Old Port

4.8
·309 reviews·Dubrovnik, Croatia

A bustling historic harbour filled with boat tours, scenic views, and vibrant waterfront activities. Perfect for exploration and relaxation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Old Port - Beautiful de la Commune street in Montreal's Old Port

Old Port

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling historic harbour filled with boat tours, scenic views, and vibrant waterfront activities. Perfect for exploration and relaxation.

4.8
(309 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful places in the world and a must see if you go to Croatia."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Ferris Wheel Romance

Take a ride on La Grande Roue for amazing city views on a date!

🎶 Relax at Jardin Nelson

Enjoy live jazz and terraces for a chill vibe.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

La Grande Roue

La Grande Roue

Ferris Wheel

Soar above the Old Port for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and sea. Perfect for romantic moments or stunning photos.

Jardin Nelson

Jardin Nelson

Garden & Terrace

Enjoy live jazz music and a relaxed atmosphere on one of the many terraces. A great spot for a low-key outing.

Harbour Boat Tours

Harbour Boat Tours

Various Tour Operators

Explore the local islands and coastline on a 50-minute tour. Tickets are easily available on the spot.

Lighthouse Walk

Lighthouse Walk

South Side of Harbour

Stroll out to the lighthouse and along the walls for serene sea views away from the main hustle.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

The Old Port gets incredibly busy, especially during peak tourist season. Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Booking tours in advance can also save time.

First Date Fun

Planning a first date? The Old Port offers a variety of activities. From scenic Ferris wheel rides with city views to relaxed jazz music in Jardin Nelson, there are options for every vibe. Consider a boat tour or a stroll along the sea for a memorable experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Evening Jazz Sets
Why
Live music and vibrant ambiance
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Bustling with activity
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

visiting portland soon, how is the old port area?

🎯 Ferris Wheel Romance

Take a ride on La Grande Roue for amazing city views on a date! Reddit

🎶 Relax at Jardin Nelson

Enjoy live jazz and terraces for a chill vibe. Reddit

reddit.com

I have 24 hours in Portland. What are the must-do’s?

reddit.com

Good drinking spots in old port

🎟️ Easy Boat Tickets

Book sightseeing tours on the water easily on the spot. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Escape the Crowds

Walk to the lighthouse for sea views away from the bustle. Reddit

reddit.com

Parking recommendations for old port

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Ferris Wheel Romance

Take a ride on La Grande Roue for amazing city views on a date! Reddit

🎶 Relax at Jardin Nelson

Enjoy live jazz and terraces for a chill vibe. Reddit

🎟️ Easy Boat Tickets

Book sightseeing tours on the water easily on the spot. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Escape the Crowds

Walk to the lighthouse for sea views away from the bustle. Reddit

🌊 Enjoy the Sea Breeze

Find quiet spots along the walls to relax by the sea. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(309 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Old Port to be a vibrant and beautiful place with plenty of activities, from boat tours to scenic views. While it can get very busy, many appreciate the options for dining and relaxation, especially finding quieter spots away from the main crowds. The harbour's lively atmosphere is a major draw for most.

"Super busy but fun, we did a basic 50 minute tour which was perfect. Lots of options. If you have the time and the weather walk out to the lighthouse and along the walls there are some awesome spots to hangout and enjoy the sea away from the crowds."

Robert Quinn

"A very busy harbour with tourist boats doing tours of local islands, many residents have their own boats.
Plenty of local restaurants, shops and bars nearby."

Peter Mabon

"You can enjoy there many excursions, tours, and rides in boats.
You can get your ticket on the spot."

Wadad Lahad

What People Like

Beautiful harbour views
Variety of boat tours
Lively atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be very crowded
Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Port is easily accessible by public transport, including metro and bus lines. Many visitors also find it convenient to walk or bike if staying nearby. Parking is available but can be expensive and fill up quickly during peak times.

Yes, the Old Port is very walkable and best explored on foot. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are clustered together, making it easy to discover on a stroll.

Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging and costly. It's often recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid traffic and parking hassles.

Yes, there are dedicated bike paths and lanes around the Old Port, making it a popular destination for cyclists. You can rent bikes nearby.

Walking is the most popular and recommended way to explore the Old Port. For longer distances or a unique experience, consider the tourist boats or even a horse-drawn carriage ride.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general access to the Old Port area is free. However, you will need to purchase tickets for specific attractions, boat tours, or rides like La Grande Roue. Reddit

Tickets for boat tours can typically be purchased directly from the tour operators at their kiosks located along the waterfront. It's often easy to find and buy them on the spot. Reddit

Absolutely! Simply walking around, enjoying the atmosphere, watching the boats, and relaxing in areas like Jardin Nelson (when not attending a ticketed event) are all free activities. Reddit

Operating hours vary by attraction and season. It's best to check the specific websites of La Grande Roue, boat tour companies, or museums for the most up-to-date information.

For popular attractions or during peak season, purchasing tickets in advance online can save you time and guarantee entry. However, many tours allow on-the-spot purchases. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Highlights include a ride on La Grande Roue for stunning views, enjoying live jazz at Jardin Nelson, taking a scenic boat tour, and walking out to the lighthouse for a peaceful escape. Reddit+1

Yes, it's a great spot! Consider a ride on La Grande Roue or a relaxed time at Jardin Nelson with live jazz. A boat tour is also a fun option. Reddit

Yes, there are many terraces, benches along the waterfront, and green spaces like Jardin Nelson where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the views. Reddit

The most popular tours are boat excursions around the local islands and coastline. Some attractions might also offer guided historical walks or experiences.

The Old Port can get very busy, especially during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. Visiting on weekday mornings or evenings can offer a less crowded experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Old Port boasts a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering everything from casual bites to fine dining. You'll find diverse cuisines to suit any palate.

Yes, alongside upscale restaurants, you can find more casual eateries, snack bars, and cafes offering more affordable options for a quick bite.

Many restaurants feature local specialties and seafood. Exploring the various eateries will give you a taste of regional flavors.

Definitely! Many restaurants and terraces offer beautiful views of the harbour and the sea, making for a picturesque dining experience.

While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can purchase food from vendors and find spots along the waterfront or in nearby parks to enjoy a casual picnic.

📸 📸 Photography

For stunning photos, head to La Grande Roue for panoramic cityscapes, the waterfront for harbour views, and the lighthouse area for scenic sea shots. The charming streets also offer great photo opportunities.

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting. Evenings are also magical with the city lights reflecting on the water.

Yes, boat tours offer unique perspectives of the Old Port and coastline, making them excellent for photography. Just be mindful of keeping your camera secure.

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals. Some indoor attractions might have specific rules.

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide harbour scenes and details. A wide-angle lens is perfect for expansive views, and a telephoto can be useful for distant boats or wildlife.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Port offers a lively and engaging environment for families. Kids will love the excitement of the harbour, watching the boats, and the thrill of a ride on La Grande Roue. Many boat tours are also family-friendly, providing an educational and fun way to see the area. Reddit

Look for restaurants with kid-friendly menus and consider packing snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up. The open spaces along the waterfront are great for little ones to move around, but always keep a close eye on them near the water. The general atmosphere is vibrant and entertaining for all ages.

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

For a romantic experience, the Old Port is ideal. A ride on La Grande Roue at sunset offers breathtaking views perfect for couples. Reddit Enjoy live jazz music and a relaxed ambiance at Jardin Nelson, or opt for a quiet stroll along the sea walls away from the crowds. Reddit+1 Many restaurants offer intimate dining settings with harbour views, making it easy to plan a memorable evening.

🚶 Budget Travelers

While some attractions can be pricey, the Old Port offers plenty of budget-friendly options. Access to the port itself is free, and simply walking around, enjoying the views, and soaking in the atmosphere costs nothing. Reddit Look for casual eateries and snack bars for more affordable food choices. Consider skipping paid attractions and focusing on the free activities like exploring the waterfront and finding scenic spots to relax. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Old Port by Water

The Old Port is synonymous with its vibrant harbour, and experiencing it from the water is a must. Numerous boat tours operate daily, offering excursions that range from short 50-minute loops around the local islands to longer sightseeing trips. These tours provide a unique perspective of the city's skyline and coastline, often highlighting historical landmarks and marine activity. Tickets are generally easy to purchase on the spot from various vendors lining the waterfront, though booking in advance is advisable during peak seasons to secure your preferred time slot. Reddit

Beyond organized tours, many residents own private boats, adding to the lively atmosphere of the harbour. You might also find opportunities for other water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, depending on the season and availability. The sea air and the gentle rocking of the waves offer a refreshing contrast to the bustling streets, making a water excursion a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

Romantic Escapes and First Dates

The Old Port is a popular choice for romantic outings and first dates, offering a blend of scenic beauty and engaging activities. A ride on La Grande Roue, the iconic Ferris wheel, is highly recommended for its stunning panoramic views of the city and the water, providing a memorable shared experience. Reddit

For a more relaxed and intimate setting, Jardin Nelson is a fantastic option. It often features live jazz music and boasts numerous terraces where couples can enjoy a drink or a meal in a charming atmosphere. Reddit Alternatively, a leisurely stroll along the harbour walls or a quiet walk out to the lighthouse offers a chance for conversation and enjoying the sea breeze away from the main crowds. Reddit The variety of dining options, from cozy cafes to restaurants with harbour views, further enhances the romantic appeal of the Old Port.

Navigating Crowds and Finding Serenity

The Old Port's popularity means it can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist times and on weekends. Visitors often note the bustling nature of the harbour, filled with tourist boats and local residents. Reddit To make the most of your visit and avoid the throngs, strategic timing is key. Consider visiting early in the morning when the area is quieter, or later in the evening as the day-trippers depart. Reddit

For those seeking a moment of peace away from the main activity, venturing out towards the lighthouse and walking along the harbour walls provides some of the best spots to simply hang out and enjoy the sea. Reddit These areas offer a more tranquil experience, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings without the constant hustle and bustle. Planning your visit around these quieter times or seeking out these less-trafficked spots can significantly enhance your overall enjoyment.

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