Finding parking in Montreal’s Old Port (Vieux-Port) can feel like a costly game of luck—especially during summer events, weekends, or festival seasons. Whether you’re planning a day by the waterfront, a dinner date in Old Montreal, or simply passing through for work, parking doesn’t need to break your budget. This comprehensive guide shares real local strategies, up-to-date rate insights, and practical tips to park cheaply without sacrificing convenience, plus recommendations for where to eat, drink, work, or relax nearby.

Quick Take: How to Save on Old Port Parking

• Avoid the main Old Port lots if staying longer than 4–6 hours—they are the most expensive.
• Target city-run meters or municipal lots a few blocks away (near Champ-de-Mars or Square-Victoria).
• Use Montreal’s new parking app Mobicité to manage your parking digitally.
• Arrive early in the morning or after 6:30 p.m. for the best rates and availability.
• Be ready to walk 8–12 minutes—this is where most real savings happen.

How Parking Works in the Old Port

1) Official Old Port Surface Lots (2025 Rates)

The Old Port operates several official surface parking lots with fixed rates. As of September 30, 2025, here are the confirmed prices:

• 0–6 hours: $35
• 6–12 hours: $45
• 24 hours: $70
• Event rate (up to 6 hours): $45
• Additional 12-hour increments: $35 each

These lots are closest to major attractions like the Montreal Science Centre, Clock Tower, and the Grand Quay cruise terminal. However, their convenience comes at a premium, and spaces can fill up quickly during festivals or cruise ship days.

2) Grand Quay Parking (High Season Rates 2025)

The Grand Quay (Quai de l’Horloge cruise terminal area) operates its own parking facility. Contrary to earlier impressions, high-season rates (May 1–September 30, 2025) are as follows:

• 0–6 hours: $35
• 6–12 hours: $45
• 12–24 hours: $55
• Event 6-hour rate: $30
• Lost ticket: $50

Grand Quay offers a covered, secure parking experience and is slightly more expensive than the surface lots for full-day parking. If you are visiting for less than 6 hours or attending a special event, the $30 event rate may actually be cheaper.

3) Cheaper Parking Garages Nearby

If you’re willing to walk 5–10 minutes from the waterfront, you can find parking for $15–$25 at locations such as:

• Champ-de-Mars Garage – Near the Metro station, often $15–$20.
• Saint-Paul Area Indoor Garages – Around $20–$25 for 12 hours.
• King-Edward Pier vicinity – Some reported deals ($25/2h) and occasional promotions, but always check posted signage for accuracy.

These inland garages are a good choice for full-day stays and during busy weekends when Old Port lots reach capacity.

Best Times and Tools to Park Cheaper

• Early arrival = better rates: Before 10:30 a.m. or after evening rush hour is your sweet spot.
• Use Mobicité app: Montreal is transitioning from the old P$ app to Mobicité—download it for contactless payments and to extend your time remotely.
• Weekend evenings often cheaper: Especially east of Place Jacques-Cartier.
• Check both sides of the street: Meter rules sometimes change within the same block.

Sample Parking Itineraries

Half-Day Visit (4–6 hours)

• Park: Near Champ-de-Mars underground parking.
• Activities: Explore Pointe-à-Callière Museum, grab brunch at Olive et Gourmando, stroll the cobblestone streets.

Family Day (6–10 hours)

• Park: Grand Quay parking for stroller-friendly access.
• Activities: Science Centre visit, picnic on the Clock Tower Quay, Ferris wheel at sunset.

Date Night (3–5 hours)

• Park: Square-Victoria meters (evening rates are better).
• Activities: Dinner at a local bistro, cocktails at a hidden speakeasy, riverside walk.

Where to Eat, Drink, Work or Unwind Near Old Port Parking

Restaurants & Cafés

• Olive et Gourmando: A must-visit café for breakfast, pastries, and fresh lunch options.
• Modavie: A lively French bistro with nightly jazz performances.
• Dandy: Stylish brunch spot with a bright, modern vibe.

Bars & Lounges

• The Coldroom: A secret cocktail bar with creative mixology.
• Taverne Gaspar: Classic gastropub with a waterfront terrace.

Coworking & Remote Work Spots

• Crew Collective & Café: A beautifully restored former bank now serving as a coworking hub with great coffee and fast Wi-Fi.

Parks & Attractions

• Clock Tower Beach: Perfect for summer lounging.
• Montreal Science Centre: Interactive exhibits for families.
• Grand Quay Green Roof: Scenic river views and open-air walking paths.

Local Tips to Maximize Your Parking Dollar

1. Be flexible with distance. Every block you move away from the river can save you up to 40% on rates.
2. Set a parking alert. Mobicité allows you to top up from your phone—no need to run back to the meter.
3. Watch for event days. Fireworks, festivals, and cruise departures spike demand—consider parking near a metro station and taking the Orange Line in.
4. Choose indoor garages in winter. Snow removal often limits on-street parking availability near the Old Port.
5. Avoid leaving valuables in view. Enforcement is strict, and break-ins are opportunistic.

Are There Truly Cheap Spots Right on the Waterfront?

Not really—true “cheap” parking is almost always a few blocks away from the main quays. The prime lots are priced for convenience, not savings. For those willing to walk, plenty of affordable options exist within a 6–12 minute radius.

Final Word: How to Park Smart in Old Port

Parking in Old Montreal doesn’t have to be a headache or a financial trap. By planning your arrival time, choosing city-run meters or nearby garages, and using digital tools like Mobicité, you can easily cut your costs in half while staying close to the action. Whether you’re here for a quick café run, a day of museum-hopping, or a late-night dinner date, a little strategy goes a long way.

References (Inspirational Sources)

(This guide is written with original insights and local experience. We used the following resources for background context and verification only—not for direct copying.)

• Old Port Montreal Official Site
• City of Montreal Parking Information
• Mobicité App Details
• Tourisme Montréal – Old Montreal Guide
• Local Parking Garages Listings

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Parking in Old Port