Christmas Walking Tour in Old Montreal

Exploring Old Montreal During the Holidays: The Christmas Walking Tour

If you’re considering adding a splash of holiday magic to your Montreal visit, this Christmas Walking Tour in Old Montreal might just be what you’re looking for. Though we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a cozy, culturally rich experience that combines history, festive cheer, and local charm—all in about an hour and a half.

What we love about this tour is its focus on Montreal’s seasonal traditions and the chance to see the city decked out in holiday lights — a treat for the eyes, especially at night. Plus, the stops at iconic spots like the Bonsecours Market and the Santa Claus exhibit promise some memorable photo ops and a taste of local craftsmanship.

On the flip side, this tour is primarily outside, so if you’re expecting a deep dive into indoor holiday decor or architecture, you might find it a bit light. Also, it tends to fill up about 6 weeks in advance, so planning ahead is key if you want to join during the busy season.

If you’re after an engaging, atmospheric stroll that offers insights into Montreal’s holiday customs while enjoying beautiful street scenes, this tour could be a good pick. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, light walking, and festive sights—but not necessarily for those seeking a more in-depth or indoor-focused experience.

Key Points

• Duration & Price: About 1 hour 30 minutes, roughly $24.50 per person, making it an affordable way to enjoy holiday Montreal.
• Focus on Festivities: The tour emphasizes Christmas decorations, lights, and local holiday traditions.
• Two Major Stops: Santa Claus exhibit at the World Trade Center and browsing the historic Bonsecours Market.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews praise guides for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• Outdoor Experience: Most of the tour takes place outside, so dress warmly, especially in winter.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 16 people) ensure a friendly, personalized experience.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Itself

Starting at the Montreal World Trade Center, you’ll be greeted by your guide and led to the Santa Claus exhibit. This isn’t just a casual display; the figurines are beautifully decorated, and many find this stop delightful for all ages. Several reviews highlight how much visitors enjoy the exhibit—one even called it “sure to delight people of all ages.” With free admission, it’s a neat peek into the holiday spirit without extra costs.

From there, the tour winds through Victoria Square, a central hub where the city’s festive lights and decorations are on full display. Your guide will fill you in on Montreal’s longstanding holiday traditions, many rooted in French and European customs that have shaped the city’s celebrations for centuries. It’s a chance to learn how this city keeps its holiday spirit alive, from historical perspectives to local habits.

Next, the focus shifts to Bonsecours Market—a true Montreal landmark. This two-story, domed building has served as the city’s main public market for over a century. Today, it’s a lively spot where you can browse local artwork, jewelry, clothing, and crafts. During the holiday season, the market often features festive displays, making it a perfect place to pick up unique gifts. Reviewers have loved wandering among the stalls, describing it as a “great place to stock up on Christmas presents” and praising the market’s authentic, local vibe.

Throughout the tour, the guide narrates stories about Montreal’s history, architecture, and holiday customs, bringing each stop to life. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was “very knowledgeable,” sharing interesting tidbits, which added meaning to the stroll. Another highlighted how the lights and decorations “marvelled” them, turning a simple walk into a festive experience.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

You’ll meet your guide at 360 Rue Saint-Jacques, a central location in Old Montreal, easily accessible by public transportation. The tour ends at Bonsecours Market on 350 Rue Saint-Paul E, conveniently located for further exploration or a warm drink afterward.

Dress warmly because most of the experience is outdoors, and Montreal’s winter weather can be quite cold. Several reviews note that the experience is mostly outside, so layering is advisable—think hats, gloves, and a good coat.

The group size is capped at 16, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible for questions or extra stories. The tour features a mobile ticket, adding ease to your planning.

You should expect to spend about an hour and a half walking through historic streets, with stops for photos, browsing, and learning. The tour’s flexibility means it can be easily combined with other activities, like visiting additional markets or enjoying a meal nearby.

The Value of This Experience

At roughly $24.50 per person, this tour offers a lot of value for a short, well-guided walk through some of Montreal’s most picturesque and festive spots. The fact that it’s booked an average of 42 days in advance shows how popular it is—its timing and limited spots help preserve its cozy atmosphere.

Many reviewers mention the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, which turns what might seem like a simple walk into a storytelling session. If you’re into local culture, holiday traditions, or just want to see Old Montreal lit up at night, this tour makes a strong case for itself.

Some feedback suggests that the tour could be more focused on Christmas decorations and traditions, as a few felt it had a heavier emphasis on architecture and history. But for most, the festive lights, the Santa exhibit, and market browsing make up a charming holiday experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor city walks, storytelling, and a festive atmosphere. If you’re visiting Montreal during the holiday season and want an accessible, relaxed way to soak up the city’s seasonal spirit, this tour fits the bill. It’s also ideal if you’re interested in a mix of history, local crafts, and holiday customs, especially if you’re traveling with a group or prefer small, friendly tours.

While not a deep dive into indoor holiday decor or architecture, the combination of lights, markets, and storytelling creates a warm, inviting experience. It’s a great way to get into the holiday mood without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the description doesn’t specify family-friendly features, the tour’s outdoor nature and festive atmosphere make it suitable for most ages. Just ensure kids are dressed warmly and comfortable walking outside.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which is perfect for a relaxed stroll without taking up your whole day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 360 Rue Saint-Jacques and finishes at Bonsecours Market on 350 Rue Saint-Paul E, both in Old Montreal, making it easy to access from other city attractions.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—think layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof shoes—since most of the tour is outside and Montreal winters can be cold.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 42 days in advance, so plan early to secure your spot during peak holiday times.

Are there any extra costs?
No, the Santa Claus exhibit and market browsing are included in the tour, and the ticket price is straightforward.

What kind of guide will I have?
Guides are described as knowledgeable and engaging, sharing stories about Montreal’s traditions, architecture, and Christmas customs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Montreal during the holidays and want a taste of local tradition set against the stunning backdrop of Old Montreal’s twinkling lights, this Christmas Walking Tour offers a warm, authentic experience. It’s a fair-priced, engaging way to see the city’s historic streets, learn about holiday customs, and enjoy some festive decorations.

While it’s not an in-depth indoor or architectural tour, the combination of outdoor sights, market stalls, and storytelling makes for a delightful holiday outing. Just remember to bundle up—you’ll be outside for most of it—and book early, especially if visiting during the busiest season.

For anyone who enjoys history, local crafts, and a lively Christmas atmosphere, this tour is likely to leave you in good holiday spirits and with plenty of lovely memories of Old Montreal in winter.

Happy exploring, and enjoy the magic of Montreal’s holiday season!