See Montréal from above

Mount Royal Park

The Mountain has a slew of spots to get a bird’s eye view of the city. There’s the lookout at the Kondiaronk Belvedere, where you can see an astounding view of downtown down to the St. Lawrence River as you sip a homemade lemonade from the café. There’s the Lookout on the northeast side, which will give you a look at the Plateau and eastward all the way past the Olympic Stadium. There are various lookouts you can reach when you walk to the very top, to the cross. The choices are endless, and the surrounds lushly green. 

Renaissance Hotel

Many hotels in Montréal have amazing views, both from the top-level rooms and from rooftop bars. The AIR Terrace on the rooftop at the Renaissance Montréal Downtown is extra special for the ambiance, the drinks, the stainless steel plunge pool and the view of downtown and the river and its beautiful bridges. While it’s only open during summer months, there are lots of other rooftops spots nearby that are open year-round. 

The Clock Tower

Building began in 1919 on this heritage tower right on the bank of the St. Lawrence River, originally to conceal the unsightly sheds that once lined the busy, bustling quays when Montréal’s commercial life centred around the Old Port. Today the Clock Tower marks the entrance to the port and stands as a memorial to sailors lost at sea. To those willing to climb the 45-metre-high tower, with 192 steps to the top, it’s a great spot for a stunning view of the waterways and city below. 

Jacques-Cartier Bridge

At over 100 metres high, the highest part of the Jacques-Cartier Bridge — which has pedestrian and bike access — is definitely a high place, and there’s no better spot to view the lights on fireworks nights. Plus, you’ll be standing among a real-life work of art: the bridge itself is illuminated every night in a kinetic work created by Moment Factory that reflects the city’s energy flow. 

La Grande Roue de Montréal

Take in the panoramic view in the cozy comfort of a weather-proof, four-season gondola aboard the largest, tallest Ferris wheel in Canada. Located right in Old Port, La Grande roue de Montréal’s 42 gondolas are equipped with ultra-clear tempered glass panes so you can see up to 28 kilometres away on a clear day. In the evening, colourful lights steal the show, creating a romantic and festive atmosphere. 

Le Monstre at La Ronde

With its highest spots hitting 40 metres, it’s no wonder this oldie-but-goodie ride at La Ronde — Montréal’s Six Flags amusement park — gives thrills and chills. If you have time to actually look over the screaming and flailing arms at certain spots on Le Monstre, you’ll see the beautiful St. Lawrence River and islands spread out before you. All you’ve got to do is dare open your eyes! 

Hélicraft, a bird's eye view

For a REAL high perspective, take a tour with Hélicraft — a unique way to see Montréal’s main attractions from above. Among the different panoramic tours available, ranging from 20 to 30 minutes, you can see views of the Olympic Stadium, downtown skyscrapers, Mount Royal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, the Old Port, the Jacques-Cartier Bridge and more. Or how about taking command? Fly the helicopter yourself during Hélicraft’s supervised pilot experience. With an experienced instructor by your side, you’ll soar 4,200 metres high above Montréal’s gorgeous skyline. 

Hyatt Centric Ville-Marie Montréal

The vista at this east-end Old Port hotel is unique, giving new views from the rooftop restaurant and guests-only pool that are really spectacular. You’ll gaze at the green lushness of Parc-Jean-Drapeau, with the Biosphere and the Calder sculpture in full view, not to mention the Grande Roue and, on the other side, downtown. 

Hôtel Honeyrose Montréal

It may not be as high as some of the other hotel terrasses, but it’s a one-of-a-kind perspective on the whole Quartier des Spectacles! In festival season this handsome hotel terrasse vantage point is truly droolworthy, with full view on all the outdoor concerts and street performances. And it’s perfect for fireworks nights, too, when the eastern perspective reaches all the way toward La Ronde. 

Hotel William Gray

This gorgeous Old Montréal hotel has a terrasse that’s full every night and weekend for its delicious food, and its view has a part to play in the appeal too. Get an eyeful of the shiny dome of Marché Bonsecours and the pretty 18^th century architecture of surrounding Old Montréal. 

Hôtel Nelligan

Among the most popular terrasses in town, the rooftop bar and restaurant at Hôtel Nelligan is a major draw for after-work crowds and revelers of all kinds for the quality of the cocktails and food. The view is twofold, one side giving onto picturesque Old Montréal and downtown behind, the other looking out onto the St-Lawrence, the Grande Roue, the Grand Quay and Port of Montréal Tower and Jacques-Cartier Bridge. Cheers to this magical spot. 

Four Seasons Hôtel Montréal

Located right downtown in the thick of the Golden Square Mile, you wouldn’t think the Four Seasons would have too much to offer in terms of vistas — but you won’t find a better view of the surroundings, particularly of the Leonard Cohen mural by Gene Pendon and El Mac. Take a seat on the heated terrasse of the tawny restaurant Marcus and gaze out onto the ebullient culture below. 

Grand Quay and Port of Montréal Tower

This impressive structure is grand indeed, not only on its lower levels large enough for incredible grandiose events, but also on its top levels which have an unobstructed view of both the city on one side and the wide expanse of the St. Lawrence River on the other. Walk up the last two storeys just to be able to savour every step on the shiny golden staircase. 

MTL Zipline

Engage with the landscape — like, physically — by ziplining your way over Bonsecours Island in the Old Port thanks to the skilled thrills provided by MTL Zipline. You’ll be mere feet away from the St. Lawrence River, right in the heart of things —though your heartrate may not allow you to enjoy the view.