Montreal, the largest city in the Quebec province of Canada, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in Montreal. And what better way to explore the city than with a group tour? Group tours are not only a great way to discover the hidden gems of a city, but they also offer the opportunity to meet new people and make lasting memories. In this post, we’ll share the 5 best group tours in Montreal that are sure to make your trip an unforgettable one. So, let’s dive in!
The 5 Best Group Tours in Montreal
- Small-Group Montreal Designers Shopping Tour with a Style Coach
- Montreal: Small Group Night Sightseeing Tour
- Montreal: Small Group Downtown Walking Tour
- Montreal: Small Group Evening City Tour
- Old Montréal Small-Group Christmas Tour
The 5 Best Group Tours in Montreal
1. Small-Group Montreal Designers Shopping Tour with a Style Coach
Explore Montreal’s fashion scene on this half-day small-group shopping tour with a style coach as your guide. Discover new and fresh designers off the beaten path, and try on garments by wearable art makers. Customize your tour by filling out a personal fashion questionnaire before the tour, and let your style guide set up shopping experiences with local designers that suit your interests. Enjoy exclusive discounts and sales provided for your group, and take home a goody bag. With expert mini style consultation and tips from your style coach, this tour is perfect for fashion enthusiasts and anyone who loves to shop. Hotel pickup is available upon request.
2. Montreal: Small Group Night Sightseeing Tour
Don’t spend an evening stuck in your hotel! Take part in an intimate small group night sightseeing tour with an experienced guide in Montreal. Discover the city’s attractions and sights after the sun has set and the lights are aglow. Drive to the top of Mont Royale and admire Saint Joseph’s Oratory lit up by colorful lights. Enjoy the most memorable nighttime views of the city from the highest point. Explore Old Port along the waterfront of Old Montreal and admire the Montreal Observation Wheel at night. This is the perfect tour for those who want to see the city’s beauty in a different light. Book your Montreal small group night sightseeing tour today!
3. Montreal: Small Group Downtown Walking Tour
This Downtown Montreal walking tour is the perfect way to discover the city’s urban heart and soul. Led by a fun and engaging local guide, this small group tour, limited to only 10 participants, will take you through the Museum District, Golden Square Mile, and beautiful McGill University campus. You’ll also see the Bell Centre, home to the Montreal Canadiens, and enjoy vibrant Sainte Catherine Street, bursting with fashion, food, and festivals. Throughout the tour, you’ll learn about a variety of topics, including architecture, culture, and art. From parks and public squares to cathedrals and churches, monuments and murals, this tour covers all the highlights of Downtown Montreal. Don’t miss your chance to get insider tips and an exclusive look at one of Canada’s most dynamic cities.
4. Montreal: Small Group Evening City Tour
Join this small group tour and experience Montreal’s beauty during the night. Your bilingual local guide will show you the most vibrant neighborhoods bustling with nightlife, and capture the twinkling lights of illuminated city buildings and bridges. During the tour, admire stunning nighttime views from Mount-Royal and capture unforgettable memories with a photo opportunity at the magnificently illuminated St Joseph Oratory.
The tour will start with a pickup service from your hotel in Downtown Montreal. You will then ride in a comfortable, climate-controlled van through the city’s downtown area to enjoy the night atmosphere, then head out to the upscale neighborhoods of Westmount for a glance at their unique houses and grand mansions.
At the end of the tour, you will see the bustling nightlife of Montreal’s neighborhoods before returning to your hotel. This tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover Montreal’s beautiful nightscape, and its unforgettable views are sure to provide you with an incredible experience.
5. Old Montréal Small-Group Christmas Tour
Take a 90-minute walking tour through historic Old Montréal during the magical Christmas period with a professional guide. Learn about the local holiday traditions that are part of French Canadian culture and discover the secrets of Christmases past as you walk from Victoria Square to Bonsecours Market. Explore the festive decorations of Old Montréal’s shops, museums, and hotel lobbies, and admire the Santa Claus exhibit at Montréal’s World Trade Center. Pass by the Place d’Armes, Notre-Dame Basilica, and Jacques-Cartier Place, all decorated for the holiday season. The tour includes a gratuity for the guide.
Frequently Asked Questions about Montreal – Everything you need to know
Montreal is an amazing Canadian city, famous for its cultural richness, diversity, and history. Here are the most frequently asked questions about Montreal that we’ll answer in this blog post.
1. What is the best time to visit Montreal?
Montreal has four distinct seasons, each with its unique appeal. The best time to visit Montreal depends on what you’re interested in. Summer is the most popular time to visit Montreal when the city is buzzing with festivals and events such as the International Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs, and Osheaga Music and Arts Festival. The fall season in Montreal is also spectacular as the leaves turn vibrant colours of red, orange, and yellow. Winter is when Montreal becomes a winter wonderland, with loads of winter activities, such as skating, skiing, and snowshoeing. If you’re a fan of winter sports, then winter is the best time to visit. The spring season in Montreal is mild, but the city can still be chilly.
2. What are the top tourist attractions in Montreal?
Montreal is rich in history, culture, and entertainment, with tons of tourist attractions. Here are the must-visit tourist attractions in Montreal:
Mount Royal Park
Mount Royal Park is probably the most famous park in Montreal, offering spectacular views of the city, a lake, playgrounds, and many trails for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Old Montreal
Old Montreal is the historic district of Montreal, with cobbled streets, historical buildings, and many museums, restaurants, and shops.
Notre-Dame Basilica
A beautiful and historic church, the Notre-Dame Basilica is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture that features a light show in the evenings.
Montreal Botanical Garden
The Montreal Botanical Garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world, featuring over 22,000 plant species, ten greenhouses, and many thematic gardens.
Biosphère Environment Museum
The Biosphère Environment Museum is a science museum that focuses on environmental issues and is situated on Sainte-Hélène Island, just outside of Montreal.
3. What are the best places to eat in Montreal?
Montreal has an outstanding culinary scene, with many award-winning restaurants, street food, and local specialties that you must try. Here are some of the best places to eat in Montreal:
Poutineville
Poutineville is a popular eatery in downtown Montreal that serves various types of poutine, a Canadian dish consisting of fries, cheese curds, and gravy, with many topping options.
Schwartz’s Deli
Schwartz’s Deli is a popular Montreal landmark that has been serving the best smoked meat sandwiches for over 80 years.
Joe Beef
Joe Beef is one of the most popular restaurants in Montreal, serving innovative and delicious cuisine inspired by classic French and Italian dishes.
Bagel St-Viateur
Montreal-style bagels are famous across Canada and the world, and St-Viateur is one of the most popular and oldest bagel bakeries in Montreal.
4. What is the public transportation system like in Montreal?
Montreal has a reliable and efficient public transportation system, including buses, the metro, and trains, run by Société de transport de Montréal (STM). The STM has an extensive network of over 200 bus lines and four metro lines, covering all areas of the city, including the suburbs. Additionally, there are many taxi and ride-sharing services such as Uber, as well as bike-sharing programs.
5. What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Montreal?
Montreal has many neighbourhoods, each with its unique charm and atmosphere. Here are the best neighbourhoods to stay in Montreal:
Downtown Montreal
Downtown Montreal is the perfect location if you want to be near the city’s main attractions and have easy access to public transportation and shopping.
The Plateau
The Plateau is a trendy and hip neighbourhood, with many cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, and is perfect for young and creative visitors.
Old Montreal
Old Montreal is the historic neighbourhood, with cobbled streets, historical buildings, and many museums, restaurants, and shops.
Le Village (Gay Village)
Le Village is the LGBTQ+ neighbourhood, known for its colourful decorations and open-minded atmosphere, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants.
6. What are some free things to do in Montreal?
Montreal has many free things to do, perfect for budget-conscious travellers. Here are the best free things to do in Montreal:
Mount Royal Park
Mount Royal Park is a massive park with many paths, playgrounds, and lake, is free for all to explore.
Old Montreal
The historic Old Montreal neighbourhood has many streets, museums, and buildings which can be walked for free.
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts offers free entry to its permanent collection for all visitors.
Atwater Market
The Atwater Market is a great place to explore and buy fresh produce, cheeses, and other local specialties.
7. Is Montreal a safe city?
Montreal is a safe city with a low crime rate compared to other Canadian cities. However, like any other major city, it is best to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Moreover, there are specific neighbourhoods in Montreal where tourists should be vigilant, such as the areas around Concordia University and some parts of Montreal North.
8. What is the currency used in Montreal?
Montreal is part of Canada, and hence the official currency used in Montreal is the Canadian dollar. ATMs are widely available in Montreal, and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
9. What languages are spoken in Montreal?
Montreal is a bilingual city, with both French and English as official languages. Most Montrealers speak French as their first language, but many also speak English fluently.
10. What is the weather like in Montreal?
Montreal has four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The fall season in Montreal is mild but can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C. Winters in Montreal are cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to -20°C. Finally, spring is mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C.
Final Thoughts
Montreal is a city with so much to offer. From its rich culture and history to its excellent culinary scene and exciting events, Montreal is a must-visit city for any traveller. We hope this blog post has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Montreal, making your visit to Montreal smoother and more enjoyable.
The 5 Best Group Tours in Montreal – Frequently Asked Questions
Montreal, the lively city known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and unique culture, is an excellent tourist destination. Exploring a city individually is fun, but group tours offer a more engaging experience, allowing you to learn the beautiful city’s intricacies and history. There are several tours available in Montreal, but we have listed the top 5 based on popularity, customer reviews, and expert recommendations.
If you’re considering visiting Montreal, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions regarding group tours to guide you.
1. What is a group tour in Montreal?
A group tour is an organized trip around the town that includes a guide, comfortable transportation, and pre-planned activities. The tours’ itineraries may differ depending on the season, theme, or occasion. Group tours can be a great way to explore Montreal, especially if you’re visiting the city for the first time, as they provide a comprehensive and informative experience.
2. What are the benefits of group tour packages?
In addition to the friendly guide, reliable transportation, and well-planned itinerary, group tours provide several benefits. They are often more cost-effective than individual trips, making them perfect for travelers on a budget. Group tours are also a great way to socialize and meet other travelers, making them ideal for solo travelers who would like to make new friends. Moreover, you’ll benefit from expert knowledge and local insights from experienced guides who know the city well and can answer all your questions.
3. Which are the top 5 group tours in Montreal?
There are several group tours available, but the following are the best in Montreal:
- 1. Old Montreal Walking Tour
- 2. Montreal City Guided Sightseeing Tour
- 3. Montreal Food Tour
- 4. The Illuminated Montreal Night Tour
- 5. Byward Market and Ottawa River Tour
Old Montreal Walking Tour
This tour will take you through Montreal’s historic streets via a guided walking tour. Some of the features you’ll see include Old Montreal’s charming cobblestone streets, picturesque views of the Old Port, and the Notre-Dame Basilica. Moreover, as you stroll through Old Montreal, your guide will provide you with historical information and other local insights exclusive to Montreal’s culture that you wouldn’t want to miss.
Montreal City Guided Sightseeing Tour
The Montreal City Guided Sightseeing Tour is the perfect tour for folks who want to explore the city from the comfort of a bus. The bus will take you through Montreal’s most popular neighborhoods and landmarks, including Old Montreal, the Plateau, and the Olympic Stadium. You will also receive expert commentary from your tour guide, who will escort you on this memorable trip.
Montreal Food Tour
If you love food, then this tour is for you. The Montreal Food Tour takes you through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, from the famous Chinatown to the trendy Mile End. You’ll visit several local eateries that make Montreal’s food scene famous and learn more about Montreal’s culinary history.
The Illuminated Montreal Night Tour
This evening tour introduces you to the city’s iconic landmarks, illuminated after dark. You’ll take a bus and drive through the city in a lively atmosphere. Some of the highlights include the Montreal Olympic Stadium, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and the Old Port. The tour will make several stops along the way so you can take some great photos and discover more about the city’s charm after dusk.
Byward Market and Ottawa River Tour
While this tour doesn’t take you through Montreal alone, it is a great day trip option for travelers who want to see more than the city’s landmarks. The tour takes you to Ottawa, Canada’s capital, where you will explore the city’s highlights such as the Byward Market and the Ottawa River. Moreover, you will be able to visit the Canadian Museum of Civilization and Parliament Hill.
4. How much do group tours cost in Montreal?
Group tour fees in Montreal differ depending on the tour package, amenities provided, and the company organizing it. Old Montreal Walking Tours, the Montreal City Guided Sightseeing Tour, and Montreal Food Tours cost between 50-70 CAD, while The Illuminated Montreal Night Tour and Byward Market and Ottawa River Tours cost upwards of 90-120 CAD.
5. Are group tours safe in Montreal?
Montreal is a safe place to visit, and group tours are generally secure as the organizers strive to ensure participants’ safety. Moreover, the guides are familiar with the neighborhoods and know how to react in case of any emergency situations.
6. Can I book group tours online?
Yes, most group tours allow you to book online, either through the tour company’s website or a third-party booking site. You can select the tour and the date that works best for you, and in most cases, you’ll receive an e-ticket as proof of purchase.
Conclusion
Montreal is a breathtaking city with much to explore. Group tours make it easier to discover the city’s history, culture, and charm. As evident from our top 5 list, you can choose from a vast array of tours, including food tours, bus tours, walking tours, and day tours. Book your preferred group tour online and embark on a memorable journey through Montreal’s beautiful neighborhoods and landmarks.
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