The best places in Montréal to watch the sunset

Parc Jean-Drapeau

Want your sunset photos to feature the icon Montréal downtown skyline? The vantage point from Parc Jean-Drapeau is unparalleled. As the location for the massively successful Expo 67, the park — which consists of two small islands — is a four-season paradise accessible within 10 minutes from downtown. For best vantage point, make your way to the Trois Disques statue and ogle the sun-drenched city from across the sparkling St. Lawrence River. 

Hiatus restaurant and bar

When PVM opened in 1962, it was the tallest skyscraper in the Commonwealth, and third-tallest building on earth outside the United States. The cruciform-shaped skyscraper has a restaurant at the top called Hiatus restaurant and bar. If you’d like to savour a sunset and a supper, this is a prime perspective.

La Grande Roue de Montréal   

Located in the Old Port, the Ferriss wheel offers sweeping, 360-degree views that span 28 kilometres on a clear day. In fact, at 60 metres, La Grande Roue de Montréal is the tallest observation wheel in Canada. You don’t have to buy your tickets in advance — but online ticketing service is offered for convenience and to help optimize the perfect sunset moment.

Hotel rooftops

Many Montréal hotels offer handsome rooftop spaces, ideal for sunsets. Swim during sunset at Hôtel Bonaventure, which features one of the city’s coolest rooftop pools. Sip a cocktail on the roof of Hôtel Place d'Armes and enjoy sun-drenched views of Old Montréal. At Renaissance Montréal Downtown, the AIR Rooftop Terrace offers a selection of dessert options, which always pair perfectly with sunset. (While we’re on the subject, check out these Montréal hotel offers.)

Bateau mouche

Looking for a seafaring sunset? With gentle waves, the wind in your hair, and breathtaking views of both the city and the water, a Montréal river cruise offers a unique (and moving) vantage point to see the sun sinking over the city skyline. Romantic vibes: 10/10. 

Grand Quai de Montréal

Fresh and modern, the Port of Montréal’s Grand Quay (Grand Quai du Port de Montréal) offers updated marine infrastructures alongside spectacular contemporary spaces. The roof of the Promenade d’Iberville boasts over 24,000 flowering and aromatic plants — and a sprawling wooden terrasse from which to breathe it all in. Make like the sun and sink into one of the many Adirondack chairs, and then watch the daylight fade across the downtown skyline. 

To up the ante, head to the top of the newly opened Port of Montréal Tower. The 65-metre structure offers a breathtaking panorama of the city and — most definitely — the sunset. You can even get a glimpse of the sunset thanks to Skaping, a camera that lets you observe the view from the tower in real time.

Parc Mount Royal

The most famous vantage point on Mount Royal is the Belvedere Kondiaronk. It’s a truly beautiful location, but with one downfall: it faces toward the east. To truly get the best vantage point for a sunset, you’ll want to face west. We recommend walking, biking, or wheelchairing along the Olmsted Trail to what is marked “Sunset lookout” on Google Maps. From there, enjoy a beautiful sunset amid lush mountain foliage.

L’Oratoire St. Joseph

Watching the sun set from the oratory — which is the highest building in Montréal — can be a spiritual experience. And it’s also heavenly on your bank account: access is free. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset, to truly soak up the city views. Here’s how to get there.