Free self-guided walk · Montreal

Old Montreal and the Old Port

A free self-guided walk through Old Montreal, from Place d'Armes and the Notre-Dame Basilica to Place Jacques-Cartier, Bonsecours Market and the Old Port.

Distance
2.5 km
Walking time
33 min
Allow
About 2 hours with stops
Stops
6

Open the route in Google MapsMontreal city guide

About this walk

This walk covers the heart of the old French city by the St Lawrence River.

Carry on along the Old Port promenade if you want more.

  • Terrain: Flat, with cobbles in Old Montreal.
  • Best time: Morning, or a summer evening when the old town is lit.

Route map

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Route and stop positions © OpenStreetMap contributors. North is up.

The stops

  1. Place d'Armes

    Start in the square facing the basilica.

  2. Notre-Dame Basilica

    The Gothic Revival church with its blue and gold interior.

  3. Rue Saint-Paul

    The oldest street in Montreal.

  4. Place Jacques-Cartier

    The sloping square of cafés and street performers.

  5. Bonsecours Market

    The domed former market hall.

  6. Old Port

    Finish on the riverside promenade.

Tips

  • The basilica charges an entry fee.
  • Rue Saint-Paul's cobbles are uneven.
  • In winter, dress for serious cold.

Prefer a guide?

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Sources and review date

This walk was last reviewed on 2026-10-28. Distance and walking time come from OpenStreetMap's walking router and don't include time at stops. Opening hours and access change; please check before you go.