by Maria Barillaro
From the impressive downtown skyscrapers, to the cobblestone roads of the Old Port, the scenic Lachine Canal, and the famed Olympic Stadium, Montreal is a city best viewed from the top. Here are the best places to go for a bird’s eye view of this city’s unique skyline from one end of the island to the other. [Image credit: iStock.com/Hadimor]
Every summer for two weeks in August, the International Balloon Festival gives you the opportunity to hop on a hot air balloon ride for the experience of a lifetime in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, just outside of Montreal. Reaching up to 7,500 feet above the city, you’ll see every corner of it from up in the air. Balloon rides will have you floating through the air for about an hour, allowing passengers to get a truly unique view of the ground from above.
Known for delicious Portuguese culinary specialties, this restaurant also offers a panoramic view of the city – the dining room rotates 360 degrees in one hour, giving you a view of Montreal from all angles. The only rotating restaurant in the city, it’s absolutely worth a visit. Great food and a stunning backdrop – what more could you ask for on a night out on the town?
The Olympic Stadium – visible from nearly anywhere on and around the island – is known around the globe for its unique design. With its 45-degree angle, the 165-metre Montreal Tower leaves you feeling like you’re truly up in the air. A glass-walled funicular brings you to the top for a spectacular view of the city from the eyes of the Montreal Tower. While the view can be breathtaking anytime of day, observing the city from up high around sunset is a phenomenal experience.
Want to see the city from up above? A helicopter tour of downtown Montreal should be on your bucket list if you love to take to the skies. The Ville Marie Circuit tours the downtown core to give passengers an exclusive view of the bustling city below. Fly through the air with Helicraft tours to experience the island like you never have before.
Whether you’re stopping in for a drink or having a meal at Terrasse Place D’Armes, you’ll love the terrace – and the view from it – at this trendy restaurant. The view of the Old Port of Montreal is gorgeous when you’re at ground level, but it’s all the more magnificent from up above. And you can enjoy a fabulous night out while taking a look at this stunning city we call home.
A spacious bar, great music, a casual chic environment – these are just a few of the reasons this St. Laurent club is a hot spot among the city’s club-goers. Plus, the understated rooftop terrace makes it the ideal spot to enjoy a drink with a view of the city’s unique Plateau area architecture. The skyscrapers lining the backdrop in the distance only add to the allure of the patio – showing off all Montreal is known for. And it’s just a few blocks from the famed Schwartz’s Deli – a must-visit for anyone new to the city.
Without a doubt, the 200-hectare park atop this hill is the best spot for a panoramic view of the city from way up high. Here you’ll see the skyscrapers of the downtown core surrounded by the beautiful greenery lining the hilltop. Onlookers can get a beautiful view of the majestic St. Lawrence River, and even spot the well-known St. Joseph’s Oratory – an architectural and historical staple in this city. (Local tip: Head to Mont Royal street’s St. Viateur Bagel Shop before heading up the hill. Nothing hits the spot after a hike like the city’s best bagel.)
Montreal is a beautiful city with unique architecture and a great setting along the St. Lawrence River. Barring a fear of heights, this list will have you experiencing Montreal from a new and exciting perspective – up above!
