Rooftops in Canada: summer seen from above
A country on a continental scale
A constitutional monarchy and federation of around 41 million people, Canada is the second-largest country in the world, after Russia. It stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific and up to the Arctic Ocean, and shares a land border of nearly 8,900 kilometres with the United States. Its capital is Ottawa, and the country is made up of ten provinces and three territories.
Canada has two official languages, English and French. French is the majority language in Quebec, whose largest city is Montreal. The country's three largest metropolitan areas are Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver.
Why head up to the rooftops
In a country with long, harsh winters, the warm season is eagerly awaited and lived outdoors. Rooftop terraces are one of its finest expressions: atop hotels, skyscrapers or low-rise buildings, they offer a drink in the sun, views over rivers, mountains or towers, and evenings that stretch late into the night.
Montreal, the first stop
A city between river and mountain
On its island in the middle of the St. Lawrence, Montreal combines a historic centre with cobbled streets, glass towers and lively neighbourhoods around Boulevard Saint-Laurent. You will find hotel terraces facing the Old Port, a bar on the 44th floor of a skyscraper, DJ-driven rooftops in the Quartier des Spectacles and more laid-back neighbourhood terraces.
Mostly seasonal terraces
Most Canadian rooftops follow the seasons: they open in spring or early summer and close in autumn. A few places remain open in winter thanks to an indoor room or heated domes set up on the terrace.
Practical tips
Season, prices and reservations
Check opening dates before you go, especially in May and October. Prices are displayed in Canadian dollars before tax: taxes are added to the bill and tipping is customary. The most popular terraces fill up quickly on summer evenings; book when you can and bring an extra layer for the cool evenings.
