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Montreal’s bitter cold doesn’t have to put out your romantic flame. In fact, the city is brimming with unique things to do and romantic spots that can help you and your partner turn up the heat this winter.
From enchanting outdoor adventures to cozy indoor dates, here are eight ways couples can embrace Montreal’s winter magic and keep those sparks flying all season long.
Get creative at Céramic Café-Studio
Price: $9 to $15 per person
Address: 4338, rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: You and your partner can channel your inner artists at Le Céramic Café Studio — a charming Plateau spot where patrons sip lattes, enjoy snacks and paint their own pottery.
The process is simple: pick out a ceramic piece, choose your colours and let your creativity flow. Once your masterpiece is complete, the staff fires it up and you can pick it up later. It’s low-pressure, hands-on fun with a cozy vibe — perfect for couples who want to unwind and get a little artsy.
Skate under the stars at Esplanade Tranquille
Price: Free (if you bring your own skates)
Address: 442, rue Clark, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Glide hand-in-hand under twinkling city lights at Esplanade Tranquille’s outdoor skating rink in the Quartier des Spectacles. This enchanting rink is especially stunning at night, with glowing projections and a festive atmosphere.
The best part? It’s completely free of charge.
Don’t own skates? Not a problem. Rentals are available on-site.
Grab a sneaky cocktail at a speakeasy
Why You Need To Go: When it comes to finding a quality cocktail spot, Montreal lives up to its reputation as a nightlife hub.
From The Cloakroom Bar to Milky Way to Atwater Cocktail Club, the city is brimming with stylish, upscale bars — many of which are hidden behind secret doors or require a password to enter.
While you and your partner could stumble upon a bar just by tossing a snowball downtown, there’s something uniquely thrilling about the charm of exploring a speakeasy.
Get pampered — with a view — at Bota Bota
Price: $60 to $90 per person
Address: 535, rue de la Commune O, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: You can trade freezing temps for steamy waters and saunas at Bota Bota, a floating spa in the Old Port.
Relax in heated outdoor pools while taking in breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River. The tranquil vibe and stunning scenery make this one of the most romantic spots in the city — and the perfect excuse to unwind together.
Dine in a heated dome
Price: $137 per person
Address: 421, rue Saint-Vincent & Quai Jacques-Cartier, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: For an upscale winter date, book a heated rooftop dome at Hôtel William Gray in Old Montreal. These cozy, see-through spheres offer panoramic views of Place Jacques-Cartier, the Grande Roue and the St. Lawrence River. It’s an unforgettable way to take date night to another level (literally).
If you’re looking to get out on the water, frosted dining domes are also available aboard a ship at Le Bateau Mouche in the Old Port.
Ride the country’s biggest Ferris wheel
Price: $27.50 per person
Address: 362, rue de la Commune E, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Carnival attractions are often enjoyed in the summer, but the Old Port’s Grande Roue de Montréal breaks the mould by staying open year-round.
Soaring 60 meters high, Canada’s largest observation wheel offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Montreal, making it a magical winter destination. With its cozy, climate-controlled gondolas, it’s the perfect place to snuggle up with your date while taking in the city’s snow-covered charm. For an added touch of romance, the VIP cabin, complete with a glass floor, promises an unforgettable experience.
A bistro and skating rink are also located nearby.
Take in a magical light show inside one of Montreal’s oldest churches
Price: $35 per person
Address: 110, rue Notre-Dame O, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: If you’re looking for a date that feels truly magical, AURA at the Notre Dame Basilica is a must-see.
This immersive light show transforms the stunning, historic church into a glowing masterpiece of colour and sound. First debuting in 2017, the epic 25-minute spectacle is composed of three acts — “The Birth of Light,” “The Obstacles” and “The Open Sky.”
Whether you go on a first date or 101st, it’s the kind of experience that leaves you speechless, making for an unforgettable evening.
While there are AURA showings almost every day, we suggest booking a spot in advance.
Turn up the heat at Ateliers & Saveurs
Price: $30 to $115 per person
Address: 705, rue Sainte-Catherine O, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: For a date that’s fun, delicious and a little different, head to Ateliers & Saveurs at Time Out Market. You and your partner can roll up your sleeves for a cooking class or sip your way through a wine-tasting session.
Whether you’re learning to make pasta from scratch or discovering your new favourite wine, it’s the perfect way to bond, laugh, and enjoy some seriously good food and drinks.
The culinary academy also has locations in the Plateau and Old Port.
These prices are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time. Taxes and fees may not be included.
