Montreal: Small Group Tour with River Cruise and Notre Dame

Explore Montreal in a Compact 6-Hour Small Group Tour

This Montreal small group tour offers an ideal way to see the city’s key attractions in just half a day. Priced at $158 per person, it is perfect for visitors with limited time who want a rundown of Montreal’s most iconic sights. The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a manageable yet immersive experience.

Led by a friendly local guide, the tour combines a narrated driving route, multiple scenic stops, and a relaxing boat cruise along the St. Lawrence River. Its small group size — limited to 6 guests — ensures a personal touch, with opportunities for photos and questions. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Montreal and all attraction fees, making it a straightforward way to explore without long lines or logistical worries.

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Key Points

• 6-hour guided tour covering Montreal’s top sights
• Small group size of up to 6 travelers for personalized attention
• Includes scenic Mont Royal lookout, Notre Dame Basilica, St Joseph’s Oratory, and a river cruise
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Montreal included
• Fully narrated with live English commentary and all admission fees
• Weather-dependent boat cruise replaced by La Grande Roue visit in off-season

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Downtown Montreal

The tour begins with pickup from downtown Montreal hotels, ensuring a hassle-free start. Travelers are transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, which allows for a relaxed journey through the city’s neighborhoods and highlights. Since the tour is tailored for small groups of six, the experience feels intimate and interactive.

The guide greets guests at their hotel and leads them through the city’s streets, passing recognizable landmarks such as the Golden Square Mile — known for its Victorian architecture — and the Notre Dame des Neiges cemetery, which is the largest in Canada. This setup makes the tour both convenient and flexible, with the guide handling all logistics.

Ascend Mont Royal for Panoramic Views of Montreal

One of the tour’s highlights is the drive up Mont Royal, starting from its base and heading to the lookout at the top of the mountain. Along the way, the guide provides commentary about the neighborhood known as Golden Square Mile and other points of interest. Reaching the Mont Royal Lookout, visitors are treated to stunning panoramic views of the city, the Saint Lawrence River, and the surrounding Appalachian Mountains.

This stop offers an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the city’s layout from above. The scenic drive offers a comfortable way to see Mont Royal’s natural beauty without extensive walking, ideal for travelers of all mobility levels.

Discover Montreal’s Historic Old Town and Notre Dame Basilica

After descending Mont Royal, the tour proceeds into Old Montreal, where the cobblestone streets and historic buildings set a charming scene. Visitors get to admire some of the city’s oldest architecture, including the notable Notre Dame Basilica. Known for its gothic-revival style, the Basilica features impressive stained glass windows and intricate decor.

The guide shares stories about Montreal’s history while visitors take photos of the striking facades and atmospheric streets. This stop provides a snapshot of Montreal’s heritage and culture, with plenty of opportunities for capturing memorable shots.

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Visit and Explore St Joseph’s Oratory

Next, the tour takes you to St Joseph’s Oratory, one of Montreal’s most significant religious sites. The basilica is renowned for its neoclassical architecture and panoramic city views from the grounds. Inside, visitors find a peaceful atmosphere and may admire the magnificent interior and statues.

The guide offers insights into the basilica’s history and significance, making this stop both educational and inspiring. It’s an essential visit for those interested in Montreal’s spiritual landmarks and impressive architecture.

Scenic River Cruise Along the Saint Lawrence River

The tour culminates in a relaxing boat cruise on the St. Lawrence River. Providing great views of Montreal’s skyline, the cruise is narrated, offering historical and cultural commentary along the way. This seasonal activity is available during the warmer months, with the cruise replaced by a visit to La Grande Roue during the off-season.

The cruise offers a different perspective of Montreal from the water, allowing travelers to see the city’s port area and riverfront while enjoying the cool breeze. It’s a favorite part of the tour for its scenic beauty and the chance to unwind after exploring the city’s streets.

Explore the Port of Montreal Tower and Its Breathtaking Views

After the cruise, the Port of Montreal Tower provides an impressive glass tower standing 65 meters high. Situated right on the water, it offers spectacular views of downtown Montreal and the St. Lawrence River. Visitors can step into the tower for a panoramic perspective of the cityscape and surrounding landscape.

The tower’s architecture and vantage point make it a compelling stop, especially for photography enthusiasts. The guide ensures visitors have ample time to soak in the scenery and snap photos of the impressive skyline.

The Guide’s Approach and Personal Touch

Throughout the tour, the guide’s expertise shines, with live narration that enriches each stop. Reviews praise guides like Bill and Mustafa for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging commentary. They provide in-depth historical and cultural background, making the experience more meaningful.

The small group format ensures that everyone feels included, with plenty of opportunities for questions and photos. As some reviews note, guides are attentive to guests with mobility concerns and create a relaxed, inclusive environment.

Practical Tips and Considerations for the Tour

Since the boat cruise is weather dependent, travelers should plan their visit during the summer months for the cruise to operate. In the off-season, the cruise is replaced by a visit to La Grande Roue, a large observation wheel offering similar city views.

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable, especially for the outdoor stops like Mont Royal and Old Montreal. The tour’s pacing is designed to balance sightseeing with relaxation, making it suitable for most travelers.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This 6-hour guided experience is ideal for visitors who want a rundown of Montreal without dedicating a full day. Its small group setting adds intimacy, perfect for those who prefer personalized attention. The combination of driving, walking, and a river cruise offers variety and a well-rounded perspective.

People interested in architecture, history, and scenic views will find this tour particularly satisfying. The price point includes all admission fees and hotel pickup, providing good value for a packed sightseeing experience.

Final Thoughts on Montreal: Small Group Tour with River Cruise and Notre Dame

This tour delivers an excellent snapshot of Montreal’s highlights in just a few hours, with personalized guiding and a mix of land and water activities. Its small group size ensures a comfortable, friendly atmosphere, while the scenic stops and historic sites give a well-rounded taste of the city’s character.

The river cruise and Mont Royal lookout stand out as memorable features, complemented by cultural stops like Notre Dame Basilica and St Joseph’s Oratory. For those seeking an efficient, informative, and enjoyable introduction to Montreal, this tour offers a strong value and a chance to see the city from multiple perspectives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $158?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by air-conditioned van, guide with live English commentary, admission to Notre Dame Basilica (when available), and the river cruise during the summer season.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 6 hours, making it a convenient half-day activity packed with sightseeing.

What stops are part of the tour?
Stops include Mont Royal lookout, Old Montreal, Notre Dame Basilica, St Joseph’s Oratory, and the Port of Montreal Tower, with the river cruise either included or replaced by La Grande Roue in colder months.

Is the boat cruise weather dependent?
Yes, the boat cruise operates seasonally in the warmer months. In the off-season, it is replaced with a visit to La Grande Roue.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It appeals to those wanting an efficient overview of Montreal’s major sights, architecture enthusiasts, and history lovers who appreciate small-group interactions.

Are there any physical requirements?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The guide is attentive to guests with mobility concerns, and outdoor stops are brief and manageable.

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

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made in advance with pay later options, allowing flexibility while securing your spot.

What makes this tour stand out from others in Montreal?
Its small group setting, broad range of highlights, and combination of land and water experiences provide a well-rounded, comfortable way to explore Montreal efficiently.

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