City tour; afternoon in Montreal

Discover Montreal in just three hours with this engaging guided tour offered by Ntours. Priced at $100.07 per person, this experience is perfect for those wanting a quick yet rundown of the city’s most iconic sites. The tour emphasizes personalized attention with small groups limited to 8-16 participants, and includes drop-off at downtown hotels for added convenience. With a high 5.0/5 rating from 73 reviews, the tour consistently earns 97% recommendation thanks to its knowledgeable guides and well-paced itinerary.

While brief, this tour covers a broad range of Montreal’s highlights, from historic Old Montreal and the Notre-Dame Basilica to the scenic views from Mount Royal Park. It is especially suited for first-time visitors or anyone short on time but eager to see the city’s most photogenic spots. Keep in mind that the tour involves getting on and off the vehicle frequently, making it less suitable for those with limited mobility.

Key Points

• Price: $100.07 per person with group discounts available
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Highlights: Old Montreal, Notre-Dame Basilica, Westmount mansions, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, Mount Royal Park
• Group Size: Small group of 8 to 16 people
• Drop-off: Complimentary hotel drop-off in downtown Montreal
• Guide: Bilingual, knowledgeable, and praised for friendliness and expertise
• Booking: Mobile tickets with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Montreal

The tour begins at Place d’Armes in Montreal’s Old Town, a central location near public transportation. It ends back at the same spot, providing easy access for subsequent explorations or transportation options. The tour operates in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle designed for small groups, ensuring a relaxed environment for sightseeing.

Exploring Old Montreal’s Historic Charm

The first stop takes place in Vieux-Montreal, where the Notre-Dame Basilica is the highlight. Visitors stop briefly to take photos of this renowned church, famous for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Nearby, the Place d’Armes, La Place Royal, and the Old Port area offer scenic views and photo opportunities.

Since the stop for Notre-Dame Basilica is only for a picture, visitors wanting to explore inside should plan additional visits elsewhere in the city. The free 10-minute stop provides a quick glimpse of Old Montreal’s charming streets and historic sites.

Downtown Montreal and Cultural Insights

Next, the tour moves into Centre-Ville, Montreal’s bustling downtown core. This area serves as the hub for business, shopping, and cultural activities. The drive-through offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant urban life, without an extended stop, allowing plenty of time to appreciate the city’s skyline and lively streets.

The guide shares insights into Montreal’s development, architecture, and cultural diversity, making this segment both visually stimulating and informative.

Westmount’s Elegant Residential Streets

The tour then takes a drive through Westmount, known for its impressive mansions and upscale residential areas. While there is no stop here, observing this neighborhood provides a sense of Montreal’s affluence and architectural variety. It’s a good opportunity to appreciate the contrast between historic neighborhoods and modern city life.

Saint Joseph’s Oratory: A Majestic Basilica

One of the tour’s key highlights is a 30-minute visit to Saint Joseph’s Oratory, the largest basilica in Canada. Founded in 1904 by Saint Brother André, this religious site features the second-largest dome in the Christian world and offers panoramic views of Montreal from its location on Mount Royal.

Admission to Saint Joseph’s Oratory is included, and visitors can enjoy exploring the basilica’s impressive interior, historical artifacts, and the peaceful atmosphere. The guide provides context about its religious significance and architecture.

Mount Royal Park for Stunning City Views

The final major stop is at Mount Royal Park, where the tour includes a drive through the park and a short walk. From this elevated vantage point, visitors get a breathtaking view of downtown Montreal and the Saint Lawrence River. This spot is perfect for photos and soaking in the cityscape, especially at sunset or clear days.

The 30-minute visit offers a balance of outdoor scenery and urban vistas, rounding out the tour with a natural and scenic experience.

Practical Details and Tour Inclusions

The tour includes a bilingual, accredited guide who shares engaging commentary throughout the drive and stops. A small vehicle ensures comfort and intimacy, while group discounts make it more accessible.

Along With the main stops, drop-off at various downtown hotels adds convenience, especially for those staying in the city. The mobile ticketing simplifies booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility.

Limitations and Considerations

This tour does not include entry into attractions beyond Saint Joseph’s Oratory, nor does it provide private transportation or pick-up options outside the scheduled afternoon. It involves multiple on-and-off segments, making it less suitable for individuals with limited mobility. Guests must carry their belongings during these brief stops, as luggage is not permitted on the vehicle.

Weather conditions can affect the experience, and some attractions might be temporarily closed, though the tour provider offers options for rescheduling or full refunds if necessary.

Why Choose This Montreal City Tour?

This afternoon city tour is an efficient way to get a broad overview of Montreal’s key sites without feeling rushed. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a personalized experience, perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The combination of historic sites, scenic viewpoints, and upscale neighborhoods captures the essence of Montreal in just three hours.

While it’s primarily an overview, the inclusion of Saint Joseph’s Oratory and Mount Royal’s vistas ensures a meaningful connection with the city’s spiritual and natural beauty. The friendly guides, praised for their expertise, help bring Montreal’s story to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

What is the price per person?
It costs $100.07, with options for group discounts.

Are food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not part of the tour. The focus is on sightseeing and commentary.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
It is not suitable for limited mobility due to the frequent getting on and off the vehicle. Children are welcome, but disruptive behavior may lead to removal without refund.

Does the tour include inside visits to attractions?
The stop at Notre-Dame Basilica is only for photos, not for inside visits. Entry to Saint Joseph’s Oratory is included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What is the group size limit?
Groups are limited to 8 to 16 participants.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Place d’Armes in Old Montreal.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, drop-off at downtown hotels is included.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and shoes for walking are recommended; bring your camera for photos at scenic spots.

Is this tour recommended for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. The tour is designed as a good introduction to Montreal’s main highlights and offers plenty of informative commentary.

What makes this tour stand out?
The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and well-chosen stops like Mount Royal and Saint Joseph’s Oratory make it a memorable and efficient way to explore Montreal in a short time.