Private Tour of Montreal with River Cruise + Notre Dame

Imagine having a local friend show you around Montreal, hitting all the key sights while sharing stories and hidden gems along the way. That’s pretty much what this private tour offers—an intimate, curated experience designed to give you a genuine feel for the city’s charm. With a mix of scenic drives, cultural landmarks, and a peaceful boat cruise, it’s a well-rounded way to see Montreal without the stress of navigating on your own.

What we really like about this experience is its personalized touch and the luxury transport that makes the day feel special and relaxed. Plus, the skip-the-line access at major sites means no frustrating waits, so you get maximum time to enjoy each stop. On the flip side, the price point might seem high if you’re on a tight budget, but considering the private guide, private transportation, and all included attractions, many find it worth the splurge.

This tour is particularly suited for folks who value comfort, personalized attention, and want a rundown of Montreal in just a half-day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a hassle-free way to see the city’s highlights, this experience tends to deliver on those fronts. However, it might be less ideal for travelers seeking a more active or independent exploration style.

Key Points

• Highly personalized experience with a private guide and vehicle.
• All major attractions and scenic viewpoints included, with skip-the-line entry.
• Relaxing boat cruise along the Saint Lawrence River offers stunning city views from the water.
• Comfortable luxury transport in an air-conditioned Mercedes Metris van.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off make the day seamless.
• Strong reviews for knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s stories to life.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

For anyone who prefers a curated, intimate experience over large group tours, this private option really shines. The guides are praised for their depth of knowledge and ability to make the day both informative and enjoyable. If you’re a traveler who appreciates comfort—especially in a city like Montreal—this tour’s luxury vehicle makes a difference, particularly in the hot summer months or chilly winter days.

The inclusion of the river cruise is a nice touch, providing a tranquil break and a different perspective of the city’s skyline. The stops at St. Joseph’s Oratory and Mont Royal are more than just photo ops—they’re opportunities to take in expansive views and appreciate Montreal’s natural beauty.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Spot

Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal

This church is a Montreal landmark with an incredible view that’s worth the visit. The tour includes 30 minutes here, which is enough time to appreciate its architecture and soak in the panoramic vistas of the city below. Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery from the lookout, making it a favorite stop for travelers wanting a sense of elevation and calm.

Mont-Royal

The heart of the city’s green space, Mont Royal offers a narrated drive from the base to the summit, taking in points of interest along the way. Expect about 45 minutes at this stop, where your guide will point out notable sights like the Golden Square Mile. The drive itself is relaxing, giving you an overview of Montreal’s diverse neighborhoods and history.

Old Montreal

Descending from Mont Royal, the tour takes you through Old Montreal, a historic area full of cobblestone streets, charming architecture, and lively squares. The drive offers passing glimpses of places like McGill University, downtown Montreal, and Chinatown. You won’t get much walking time here—about an hour—since the focus is on the narrated drive, but it’s enough to set a vivid scene of this vibrant neighborhood.

Saint Lawrence River Cruise

The final highlight is a relaxing 90-minute boat cruise along the Saint Lawrence River. This part of the tour is especially praised for offering breathtaking views of Montreal’s skyline from the water, something many reviews mention as a real treat. It’s a peaceful way to conclude your sightseeing, with some reviewers noting the scenic vistas as the best part of the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Private, VIP tour experience with a dedicated guide.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Montreal—super convenient if you’re staying in the city center.
• Luxury transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes Metris van.
• All attraction admission fees, including skip-the-line access.
• A 90-minute boat cruise with narration.
• Passes at key spots like St. Joseph’s Oratory Lookout and Mont-Royal Lookout.
• Narrated driving tour passing notable sites like Notre Dame des neiges Cemetery and the Golden Square Mile.

Not included:

• Gratuities are optional but likely appreciated if you enjoyed your guide’s company.

What to Keep in Mind

While the experience offers great value for a personalized, all-in-one tour, it does come at a cost—around $1,200 for up to six people. For couples or small groups looking for a hassle-free day, it’s a solid investment. But if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget, other options might be more suitable.

Plus, the tour’s timing begins at 10:00 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. Since it’s a private activity, you can also discuss customization—if you’d prefer to skip certain stops or substitute activities, just ask your guide.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews are glowing about their guides. For example, Mufasa is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights that enhance the experience. Travelers especially appreciated how the guides kept the conversation flowing, making the tour both informative and engaging.

One traveler noted, “The Notre Dame church was the experience of a lifetime,” emphasizing how the tour’s flexibility allowed them to enjoy the highlights at their own pace. Others mention the beautiful city views from Mont Royal and the boat cruise as unforgettable.

A few reviews mention logistical hiccups—like the cruise terminal being difficult to access or a guide shortage causing a last-minute cancellation—but overall, most felt the experience was worth the price.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a comfortable, customizable, and highly informative way to see Montreal’s main sights in just half a day, this private tour hits the right notes. It’s especially well-suited for small groups or couples who value personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

The combination of scenic viewpoints, a cultural walk through Old Montreal, and the tranquil river cruise gives a well-rounded impression of the city. The guides’ deep knowledge and friendly demeanor turn this into more than just sightseeing—it becomes a memorable introduction to Montreal’s personality.

While it might be pricier than some group tours, many travelers find the convenience, comfort, and tailored experience justify the expense. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to make the most of a limited time in Montreal, this experience offers a nice blend of luxury and authenticity.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately five hours, starting at 10:00 am with hotel pickup included.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to six people, making it intimate and personalized.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a luxury air-conditioned Mercedes Metris van, ensuring a smooth ride.

Are attraction tickets included?
Absolutely, all fees are covered, and you skip line at major sites, saving you time.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s private, you can discuss any special requests or substitutions with your guide.

What’s the highlight of the tour?
Many say the boat cruise offers stunning views of Montreal from the Saint Lawrence River.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed for children, most stops are suitable for families, especially since it’s a relaxed, narrated drive.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book this about 47 days ahead, which helps secure your preferred date.

What if my plans change?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, according to their policy.

Are tips expected?
Tips are optional but appreciated if you enjoyed your guide’s service.

Whether you’re visiting Montreal for the first time or looking to see the city with a local’s insight, this private tour offers a thoughtful, comfortable way to experience Montreal’s highlights—and maybe even fall a little more in love with this vibrant city.