Jacques-Cartier Square (Place Jacques-Cartier) Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience Jacques-Cartier Square. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• The Original Old Montréal Walking Tour by Guidatour

• Old Montreal Private Walking Tour

• Old Montreal Walking Tour | Medium Group (Max 14) By FITZ MTL

• Montreal City Highlights 3-Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based

• Private 1-Hour Tour Old Montreal in Vintage Convertible Cadillac

As a public square in Old Montreal, Jacques-Cartier Square is always free to visit. However, you can learn more about its history and surrounding landmarks on a guided tour. Walking tours that visit the area start at just US$5 (plus gratuities), while private tours begin at US$111.

Jacques-Cartier Square is always accessible, but if you’re going as part of a sightseeing tour, visit during typical daytime hours. The square runs between Montreal City Hall and the St. Lawrence River, and is home to notable landmarks such as Nelson’s Column. Go after dark to dine at surrounding restaurants.

Jacques-Cartier Square is a must-do year-round. In summer it hosts artists and flower vendors, while many surrounding restaurants open their terraces for al fresco dining. You can also visit in the lead-up to Christmas, when the square is decorated with trees and twinkling lights.

On a tour of Jacques Cartier Square, you’ll see highlights such as Nelson’s Column (the oldest monument in the city) and Montreal City Hall. The square is in the heart of Old Montreal, and other historical highlights are nearby, such as Bonsecours Market and the Place de la Dauversière garden.

Yes, visiting Jacques-Cartier Square is worth it. The gateway to Old Montreal, it is home to the city’s oldest monument (Nelson’s Column) and near many of the neighborhood’s other historical highlights, making it a sightseeing mainstay. Its cafes and restaurants are also worth visiting for their vibes—especially in summer.