Clock Tower (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Clock Tower?
What makes it 79% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can climb 192 steps for skyline photos, lounge on free beach chairs, and exit quickly; the site is safe, cheap, and transit-close, making it strongly suitable.
Positives:
- Quiet riverside spot: The urban beach offers calm areas perfect for solo reflection with river views.
- Historical significance: Built as a WW I sailors’ memorial, the tower adds depth to your visit.
Challenges:
- Limited shade: Parasols fill up by midday; bring a hat or light cover for sun protection.
- Seasonal closures: Tower climb and beach facilities close outside summer or for maintenance; verify hours.
What is Clock Tower?
- Marks the entrance to Montreal’s Old Port with a freestanding maritime clock tower erected between 1919 and 1922
- Commemorates Canadian sailors lost at sea during World War I through its memorial clock and bell tower design
- Exhibits a white-clad classical silhouette overlooking the St. Lawrence River within the historic harbor precinct
What is so special about Clock Tower for solo trip?
- Free urban beach with lounge chairs and mist stations
- Historic WW I sailors’ memorial clock tower
- Seasonal tower climb for panoramic city and river views
- Ideal solo spot for reading, photography, and relaxation
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to explore the urban beach, photograph the tower, and climb if available.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Clock Tower
Relax on the urban beach:
Grab a lounge chair and parasol on the sand to rest or read.
Tip: Visit between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. for free chair and parasol access.
Cool off at mist stations:
Walk under water sprays along the beach to lower your temperature.
Tip: Head to the east end for denser mist when the sun is highest.
Photograph the Clock Tower:
Capture the 1921 clock faces and St. Lawrence River backdrop.
Tip: Use the boardwalk at golden hour for warm, vivid light.
Climb the tower:
Ascend the 192-step staircase for panoramic city and river views.
Tip: Confirm climb availability before you go; summer maintenance can close it.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Clock Tower
- Arrive early: Get a lounge chair and parasol before they fill up around noon.
- Use public transit: Take the metro to Champ-de-Mars station and walk 10 minutes to avoid parking hassles.
- Visit at golden hour: Go just before sunset to capture the tower and river in warm light.
Reviews of Clock Tower
Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari
Here is tge famous iconic clock tower of Montreal, right by the coast in the old district. It is a popular place for locals to do running and cycling. It can be a very good experience to go around the tower and admire the beauty of the structure which has been in Montreal for a very long time.
Google User
The Montreal Clock Tower is a beautiful and historic landmark that everyone should see at least once. Built between 1919 and 1922, it was dedicated to sailors who died at sea and also functioned as a lighthouse for the port. The architecture is stunning and when it is open you can climb about 192 steps to reach the top. It is worth noting that you cannot always go inside since according to Google ...
Mary
The only entrance we saw required paying minimum of $35 for parking to access the tower, beach, and yachts. However, there’s also a walking path where you can still enjoy a view of the tower without parking inside.
Aakas Aleem
Must visit as it highlights the shoreline of Old Montreal! Adds to the historical values and perfectly fits in with the skyline! Would recommend a walk in the night time!
THE EXPLORER
We stopped in Montreal on our way to Quebec for a short vacation. We parked in the old city section and went to the Basilica and a few other sites. Then we got in the car and drove very to see the Clock Tower. It is beautiful and really stands out.
When is the best time to visit Clock Tower (Montreal, Canada)?
From late May to early September, beach amenities run daily 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Mist stations and lounge chairs are active in summer. Tower climbs open seasonally—check current hours.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Beach access and mist stations | CAD 0 |
| Tower climb (free when open) | CAD 0 |
| Coffee or snack at beach café | CAD 5 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Clock Tower
Address: 1 Rue Quai de l'Horloge, Montréal, QC H2L 0E2, Canada
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About Clock Tower
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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