Summary
- Walking Tour in Old Montreal’s West Side
- 5-Course Dinner Cruise
- Full-Day Tour to Quebec City & Montmorency Falls
- Private Tour with a Local Guide
- 20 or 30-Minute Helicopter Tour
- Traditional Ghost Walk of Old Montreal
- Old Montreal’s East Side Walking Tour
- Small Group Sightseeing Tour
- Burlesque Walking Tour
- 3-Hour Scooter Sightseeing Tour
- St. Lawrence River Cruise for either 60 or 90 minutes
- Guided Snowmobile Tour
- Montreal Wine Country Tour
- The Original Montreal Beer Tour
- Underground Montreal Tour
Montreal is renowned for its European charm and distinct character. With a population exceeding 4 million, it stands as the most populous city in the Canadian province of Quebec and the second largest in Canada.
Commonly referred to as The City of Mary, it derives its name from the famous tri-peaked hill situated near the city’s center.
For visitors eager to immerse themselves in striking natural beauty, fascinating history, and the diverse attractions typical of a cosmopolitan city, spending a few days in Montreal proves to be an exceptional choice.
Here, we present 15 of the premier tours available in and around Montreal.
1. Walking Tour in Old Montreal’s West Side
Old Montreal’s West Side is best explored on foot. With a wealth of French heritage and architectural beauty, it provides an excellent starting point for your urban exploration.
This 1½-hour tour encompasses some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods, where you may find it surprising to discover that Montreal is one of North America’s oldest continuously inhabited urban areas.
The experience includes a local guide and admission to Notre Dame Basilica, one of the city’s most noteworthy landmarks.
Additionally, you will have leisure time to explore upscale boutiques and stroll along Saint-Jacques Street, once regarded as the Wall Street of Canada.
2. 5-Course Dinner Cruise
Notably, Montreal’s culinary scene is exceptional, presenting an array of fine dining experiences.
This evening dinner cruise on the picturesque St. Lawrence River departs from the Old Port at 7:00 PM. You will share the evening with numerous international visitors while savoring breathtaking views and delightful cuisine.
The ship features a striking glass-enclosed dining area, complemented by a bar and soothing ambiance, providing an unforgettable evening experience.
3. Full-Day Tour to Quebec City & Montmorency Falls
The history of French Canadian culture extends nearly 400 years, with visible influences present in the local cuisine, language, and architecture.
This 12-hour tour showcases Montmorency Falls, which are notably more impressive than Niagara Falls, and allows participants to experience the timeless charm of Quebec City, beautifully situated alongside the St. Lawrence River.
During the tour, there will be time to wander the city’s narrow streets, enjoy a meal or coffee, and visit prominent historical sites, including Place Royale.
This excursion provides excellent value and an enjoyable way to spend your day.
4. Private Tour with a Local Guide
Visiting a new city where you are unfamiliar with the language can often feel overwhelming. This guided tour, led by a local English-speaking expert, alleviates that concern.
You will gain a unique insight into Montreal’s history, culture, cuisine, and drinks, all while exploring one of North America’s most European cities.
This customizable tour allows you to determine the duration and specific sites you wish to see, ensuring your experience aligns with your preferences and those of your companions.
Though the guide’s fee is included, please note that food and beverages are not covered in the price.
5. 20 or 30-Minute Helicopter Tour
Ascend to nearly 2,000 feet and witness remarkable sights, including the Olympic Stadium, downtown, Victoria Bridge, and the Old Port.
Options for this tour include 20 and 30-minute packages. Opting for the longer duration allows for better views of the St. Lawrence River, Jacques Cartier Bridge, and a nearby national park.
Due to limited seating and high demand, advanced booking is highly recommended.
6. Traditional Ghost Walk of Old Montreal
Walking ghost tours are a favored activity for those interested in the intriguing, and sometimes eerie, aspects of their destinations.
Your tour guide, an expert storyteller with local historical knowledge, will enhance the experience, creating an intimate encounter likely to be one of the highlights of your journey.
During the tour, you will visit three well-known locations reputed to be haunted by restless spirits from Montreal’s past. Regardless of actual sightings, the evening will be filled with suspenseful moments.
7. Old Montreal’s East Side Walking Tour
Located in Old Montreal, the East Side is vibrant with shops, galleries, and a variety of dining and drinking establishments, both traditional and modern.
This tour includes stops at the world-renowned Notre Dame Basilica, St. Paul Street, and Champ de Mars.
Your guide will impart their expertise regarding the area’s rich history and captivating architecture, some of the finest found in the city.
The tour typically concludes at Bonsecours Market, an architectural gem with a silver dome that functioned as the city’s primary market from the mid-19th century onwards.
8. Small Group Sightseeing Tour
Given Montreal’s rich culture, history, and unique heritage, the city is best experienced as part of an intimate small group.
This tour accommodates only 14 participants or fewer, and throughout its 6-hour itinerary, you will visit key sites, including the Old Port, Notre Dame Basilica, and the elegant Place Jacques-Cartier.
Transportation to and from your Montreal hotel is provided, as you explore downtown known for its unique underground network of shops, dining options, and offices, a particularly appealing aspect during the winter months.
9. Burlesque Walking Tour
In addition to its cultured and refined atmosphere, Montreal has an equally vibrant side known for glitz and flamboyance.
This 1½-hour walking tour takes you through the city’s entertainment district, including parts of the former Red Light District, historically filled with brothels, bars, cabarets, and dance halls.
Following the captivating tales from the past, you will understand why Montreal is often labeled as Sin City and North America’s Paris.
10. 3-Hour Scooter Sightseeing Tour
Exploring a new city via scooter provides a safe, cost-effective way to cover significant ground with minimal exertion.
This 3-hour tour meanders through various neighborhoods, each with its unique history and charm.
You will have the opportunity to visit the renowned Jean-Talon Market and delve into its maze of vendors. For art enthusiasts, nearby galleries await your exploration, even if merely for window-shopping.
This tour offers excellent value, allowing you to experience much in a short timeframe.
11. St. Lawrence River Cruise for either 60 or 90 minutes
The St. Lawrence River is central to Montreal, historically serving as a major transportation route and a provider of sustenance for many residents.
This tour offers a unique perspective of the city, showcasing landmarks such as the Old Port and Olympic Stadium.
A professional guide will narrate the city’s rich history while you cruise along the scenic river, leading to insights about sites you may wish to explore independently afterward.
12. Guided Snowmobile Tour
The Maurice region of Quebec is known for its winter wonderland, filled with exciting outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery.
This snowmobile tour is available for morning or afternoon sessions, and begins with a safety briefing on maneuvering your snowmobile before embarking across the stunning terrain in search of astonishing views.
Along the way, you will have opportunities to pause for photos and enjoy a warm refreshment.
All necessary safety gear and training are provided, though it’s advisable to dress warmly due to potential cold conditions.
13. Montreal Wine Country Tour
In addition to its rich history and stunning landscapes, Montreal and the surrounding regions boast an impressive wine-producing area.
The tour offers both half-day and full-day options, and includes a professional guide who will take you along scenic routes to discover vineyards known for their acclaimed wines.
Participants will have the chance to taste various selections, including delightful hard ciders that are both flavorful and captivating.
14. The Original Montreal Beer Tour
As Montreal’s original beer tour, this excursion presents guests with the opportunity to explore several breweries, bars, and pubs, sampling nearly 20 unique beer varieties.
Lunch is included, specifically paired to enhance the tasting experience alongside the featured beers.
Participants will also learn about beer and food pairing techniques. As round-trip transportation is part of the package, you can fully enjoy your beverages without concern.
15. Underground Montreal Tour
Many visitors are unaware that Montreal features an underground city, a labyrinth filled with shops, markets, businesses, and cafes that warrants exploration.
This tour, led by a local guide, utilizes the public transit system to transport guests to key sites included in the itinerary.
It serves as an excellent introduction to the city’s history and culture while leading you to many neighborhoods and landmarks you may wish to explore further post-tour.
Gratuities, as well as food and beverages, are not included in the tour.
