Exploring Montreal in a Day: A Friendly Review of the Full-Day City Tour from Ottawa
If you’re looking to see Montreal’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning your own itinerary, this full-day guided tour from Ottawa might be just what you need. It offers a convenient way to tick off some of the city’s best attractions in one go, with a mix of scenic views, cultural landmarks, and a relaxed cruise on the St. Lawrence River.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with some free time, along with the comfort of roundtrip transportation and a knowledgeable guide to keep you informed. Plus, the inclusion of a boat cruise adds a lovely perspective of Montreal from the water—something many travelers find memorable.
However, it’s worth noting that the tour packs quite a bit into one day, which might leave some with less time to explore each site in depth. If you’re someone who prefers leisurely visits or wants to linger longer at certain spots, this might feel a bit rushed.
This tour tends to suit travelers with limited time who want a broad overview of Montreal’s highlights. It’s also good for those who enjoy guided experiences that include transportation and a mix of landmarks, especially if you’re visiting Ottawa and want to maximize your trip.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary covers major Montreal sights in just one day.
- Expert guides add valuable insights, making the experience more engaging.
- Transportation included, so no worries about navigating on your own.
- Scenic cruise on the St. Lawrence River offers a fresh view of the city.
- Time management can be tight, especially if you want to explore some sites more deeply.
- Good value for the price, considering transportation, a cruise, and guided commentary.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
This tour is designed for those who want a taste of Montreal’s most famous sites without spending too much time or energy planning. Starting early from Ottawa, the bus ride itself is about 10-11 hours including travel and stops, so it’s a full day but quite manageable with comfortable transportation.
While in Ottawa, here are other experiences we've covered
Mount Royal Lookout
The adventure kicks off at Mount Royal, the high point that gives Montreal its name. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the city sprawled out below—perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scene. It’s a great way to orient yourself before diving into the city’s history.
What we loved: The view from this spot is genuinely impressive, and it’s a peaceful way to start your day. It’s also a free stop, which is always a bonus.
Saint Joseph’s Oratory
Next, you’ll visit Saint Joseph’s Oratory, Canada’s largest church and a national historic site. Its massive dome and beautiful architecture make it a must-see, and it’s a peaceful place to appreciate some quiet moments amid your busy day.
Consideration: Entrance isn’t included, so if you want to go inside, be prepared for an additional fee. Still, the exterior alone is striking, and the site’s significance is worth noting.
Olympic Stadium and Montreal Tower
Then, the tour takes you to the Olympic Stadium, built for the 1976 Summer Olympics, affectionately called “The Big O.” You’ll see the stadium from the outside, and if you choose, you can admire the standout Montreal Tower, the tallest inclined tower in the world.
Highlight: This spot is fascinating both for its history and its architecture. Some reviews note that visiting the inside can be a bit rushed, but observing from outside still offers a solid photo opportunity.
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
The heart of the tour is a guided walking tour of Old Montreal, a neighborhood full of cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively cafes. Here, you’ll see the Notre-Dame Basilica, famed for its stunning interior and gold accents inspired by Paris’ Saint-Chapelle.
Tip: Entrance isn’t included here, so if you want to go inside the basilica, plan for an extra cost. Many visitors agree that the architecture and ambiance are worth it, even if just viewing from the outside.
The Cruise on the St. Lawrence River
One of the tour’s highlights is a boat cruise on the St. Lawrence River. It lasts about 1.5 hours and offers a different perspective of Montreal’s skyline and surrounding islands. If the weather is warm, this is an especially relaxing and scenic part of the day.
From reviews: Travelers find the cruise adds a special touch—”a breath-taking way to see the city from water,” as one reviewer put it.
Note: The cruise is included in the price, making it a good value, though it’s worth noting that during busy months, this is typically in the warmer seasons.
Transportation and Group Dynamics
The roundtrip transportation is provided via an air-conditioned bus, making the long day more comfortable. Pickup is offered from centrally located hotels within five kilometers of Ottawa, making it convenient for most travelers. The group size is capped at about 50 people, which balances socializing with manageable movement.
Experience Quality
According to reviews, guides like Jason and Yin are well-versed and friendly, able to share interesting facts and answer questions along the way. The driver, Frank, is praised for punctuality and safe driving, which is a relief considering the long drive.
Review insights: Travelers appreciated the detailed explanations and the friendliness of both the guides and the driver. One reviewer mentioned that the guide’s knowledge made the experience very interesting, and the group was described as friendly and respectful.
Price and Value
At just over $73 per person, this tour offers a lot—transportation, guided commentary, entry to the cruise, and several key sights. It’s a practical way to visit Montreal if you’re pressed for time, especially considering how much it includes.
Consideration: Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy meals during the day. Entry fees for attractions like the basilica are extra if you choose to go inside. While the tour covers a lot, some visitors mention it can be quite packed, leaving little time for deep exploration.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for anyone wanting a broad overview of Montreal without the fuss of organizing multiple tickets or transportation. It suits travelers with a busy schedule or those who prefer guided experiences that include transportation, commentary, and a scenic cruise. If you’re interested in learning about Montreal’s landmarks from knowledgeable guides and enjoy a mix of sightseeing and water views, this tour fits well.
Final Thoughts
All in all, this Montreal city tour from Ottawa offers a solid way to see the highlights in one day. The guided approach and included cruise add value, especially for first-timers or those with limited time. While the schedule can feel tight, most travelers find it a rewarding way to get a taste of what Montreal has to offer.
It’s not the best choice if you prefer unhurried visits or want to explore each site at your own pace. But if you’re looking for convenience, comfort, and a good dose of culture and scenery, this tour delivers.
This tour is perfect for curious explorers eager to tick off major sights quickly, or those wanting an easy, guided introduction to Montreal’s charm without the hassle of driving or planning.
Full-Day Montreal City Tour from Ottawa and optional city cruise
“Frank was an excellent driver. Jason good guide knowledgeable about Montreal. Very easy to get around and see lots of attractions”
FAQ
Is pickup offered from Ottawa hotels?
Yes, the tour includes complimentary courtesy pickup and return from hotels within 5 km of the meeting point in Ottawa.
How long does the entire tour last?
The whole day is roughly 10 to 11 hours, including travel, sightseeing stops, and the cruise.
What’s included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned bus, a guided tour, the cruise on the St. Lawrence, entry fees for the cruise, and taxes.
Are entrance fees for sites included?
No, entrance fees for attractions like Saint Joseph’s Oratory and Notre-Dame Basilica are not included.
Can I go inside the basilica?
You can choose to enter, but it’s an additional expense. The tour mainly views the basilica from outside.
Is the cruise operational year-round?
The cruise is included in the tour during the warmer months, typically spring to fall. It may be unavailable in winter.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll get a different date or a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the stops and pace are generally manageable for most travelers. Keep in mind the long travel hours.
How many people typically go on this tour?
The group size can be up to 50 travelers, balancing social interaction with comfort.
What makes this tour a good value?
Considering transportation, a guided tour, and a scenic cruise, the cost offers good value for a comprehensive Montreal overview.
If you’re after a lively, informative day of sightseeing with minimal planning and maximum scenery, this tour from Ottawa could be a great fit. Just keep in mind that it’s a full schedule—so if you prefer a leisurely pace, you might want to consider exploring at your own pace instead. But for a quick, guided adventure, this one packs in a lot, making it a solid choice for your Montreal visit.