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Place Jacques-Cartier: The Heart of Old Montréal

Experience the charm of Old Montréal in Place Jacques-Cartier, a historic square filled with art, culture, and lively entertainment.

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Place Jacques-Cartier, a bustling public square in Old Montréal, has been a central gathering place for locals and tourists for over 150 years. This historic square, named after the French explorer Jacques Cartier, is known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, artists, restaurants, and shops.

A brief summary to Place Jacques-Cartier

  • Pl. Jacques-Cartier, Montreal, Ville-Marie, Quebec, CA
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Local tips

  • Visit during the summer months to experience the square's lively atmosphere with street performers and outdoor cafes.
  • Take a stroll through the square during the Christmas season to enjoy the festive decorations and lighted trees.
  • Explore the shops and restaurants in and around the square to discover local crafts and cuisine.
  • Be aware that the square is on a slope, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
  • Check out the Marché de Quartier in Place Jacques-Cartier for local products, including maple treats.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Place Jacques-Cartier is located in the heart of Old Montréal and is easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From Notre-Dame Basilica, walk east along Rue Notre-Dame. Turn right onto Place Jacques-Cartier. From the Old Port, walk north on Place Jacques-Cartier. The square slopes gently uphill towards Montreal City Hall.

  • Public Transport

    The closest metro station to Place Jacques-Cartier is Champ-de-Mars on the Orange Line. From the station, take the Saint Antoine Street South Exit. Walk south on Gosford Street to Notre-Dame Street E and turn right. You will see Place Jacques-Cartier on your left past Montreal City Hall. A single fare is $3.75. Alternatively, several bus lines stop near Place Jacques-Cartier, including lines 129, 30, 55, and 747. A single bus fare is also $3.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Montréal. A short taxi ride from downtown to Place Jacques-Cartier will cost approximately $15 - $22, plus a $1.05 fee. Note that fares vary based on distance, time of day, and traffic conditions.

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Discover more about Place Jacques-Cartier

Place Jacques-Cartier, located in the heart of Old Montréal, is a vibrant public square with a rich history. The area has been a gathering place long before the square was officially established in the mid-19th century. It is believed that an Amerindian trail once passed through the area. In 1723, the Château Vaudreuil was built on this site for Philippe de Rigaud, Marquis de Vaudreuil, with formal gardens occupying the space. After the chateau burned down in 1803, the space was transformed into a public square known as New Market Place. In 1847, the square was officially named Place Jacques-Cartier in honor of the French explorer who claimed Canada for France in 1535. Today, Place Jacques-Cartier is a pedestrian-friendly zone that slopes gently downhill from Montréal City Hall to the Old Port. During the summer, the square comes alive with street performers, artists, musicians, and outdoor cafés. Visitors can enjoy a meal on a restaurant terrace, shop for handmade goods, or have their portrait drawn by a local artist. In the winter, the square is decorated with lighted trees, creating a romantic atmosphere. At the top end of the Place stands Nelson's Column, a monument erected in 1809 to honor Admiral Horatio Nelson. The monument is a point of contention for some French Québécois, but it remains a prominent landmark in the square. Place Jacques-Cartier is surrounded by historic buildings, including Maison Cartier, one of the last small inns in Canada. The square is also home to a variety of restaurants, offering diverse cuisines.

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