Montreal: Beyond the Basilica Non-Touristy Walking Tour

Thinking about visiting Montreal and want to see the city like a true local? This Montreal: Beyond the Basilica Non-Touristy Walking Tour offers just that—an opportunity to step off the beaten path and discover some of the city’s lesser-known, but equally fascinating, sights. It’s perfect if you’re tired of the usual tourist spots and crave a more authentic, intimate experience of Montreal’s neighborhoods and hidden corners.

What we really love about this tour? First, it’s guided by passionate locals who know Montreal like the back of their hand, bringing the city’s stories to life. Second, it combines historical highlights with modern street art, giving you a well-rounded feel of Montreal’s evolving culture. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves a fair bit of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. But if you’re up for a lively exploration that balances history, art, and local flavor, this tour could be just the right fit.

It’s worth noting that this isn’t a tour for anyone with mobility issues or those looking for a more relaxed, sit-down experience. It’s fast-paced and packed with in-and-out stops—ideal for those who want to maximize their time and see a broad slice of the city in just a few hours. Overall, if you’re after an energetic, engaging introduction to Montreal’s true neighborhoods, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

Authentic Local Experience: Guided by knowledgeable locals, you get insights you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.
Diverse Highlights: From historic Notre-Dame Basilica to vibrant street art, the tour offers a broad view of Montreal’s culture.
Small Group Setting: Limited to 10 people, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
Inclusion of Food and Drink: Tastings and local recommendations add flavor to the experience.
Year-Round Comfort: The tour makes good use of Montreal’s interior and underground city, making it suitable regardless of weather.
Excellent Value: For around $57, you get a detailed, engaging experience with a lot packed into 2.5 hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

Meeting next to the Maisonneuve Monument in Place d’Armes Square, right in front of Notre-Dame Basilica, sets the tone for what’s to come. The tour kicks off with skip-the-line entry into this ornate church, which is undoubtedly a highlight in itself. The basilica’s stunning interior makes for a memorable start, especially since you’re avoiding the usual lines, saving time and frustration.

This initial stop is a must-see, and you’ll appreciate the opportunity to explore inside without the crowds. Many reviews praise the guide for sharing interesting facts and stories about the basilica’s design and history, making the visit more meaningful than just admiring pretty stained glass.

Wandering Old Montreal

From there, the focus shifts to Vieux-Montréal’s elegant streets. Here, your guide will point out architectural gems, historic details, and share stories about the city’s founding. We loved the way the tour balances well-known sites with lesser-visited corners, giving a genuine sense of the neighborhood’s character.

Of course, Old Montreal is beautiful year-round, with cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings that are perfect for walking and photos. But the real perk here is leaving the tourist crowds behind. This part of the tour allows you to breathe and absorb the atmosphere, which is especially appreciated during peak travel times.

Moving into Montreal’s Interior and Underground City

One of the tour’s clever touches is incorporating a walk through Montreal’s underground city. This vast network of tunnels and shopping complexes is a lifesaver in bad weather or cold seasons, and it’s interesting to see how Montrealers navigate their city underground during winter.

The underground segment also leads to Chinatown, where you get a quick snack and some local flavor. Many reviews mention how these stops add a fun, spontaneous element to the tour—plus, you get a taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene without leaving the route.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Red Light District and Festival Hub

Next, the tour ventures into Montreal’s historic Red Light District, now transformed into a lively entertainment and festival hub. Our guide pointed out where the city hosts its biggest events, giving a taste of Montreal’s vibrant cultural scene. This area, once notorious, now exudes energy and creativity, making it a fascinating contrast to the historic sites.

The Street Art and Murals

Saint-Laurent Boulevard is a highlight—home to some of Montreal’s most impressive murals, thanks to the city’s annual MURAL Festival. Walking along this street, you’ll see half a dozen large-scale works of art, each with its own story. Many travelers find this part especially inspiring, appreciating how contemporary art is integrated into the city’s fabric.

Local Coffee and Recommendations

With a Third Wave coffee in hand, you’ll stroll through the trendy Lower Main area, soaking in its artsy vibe. The guide provides a curated list of personal recommendations—restaurants, galleries, bars—that you can explore further after the tour. This personalized touch is often praised as a real bonus, helping visitors feel more connected and prepared.

Tour Logistics and Practicalities

Spade & Palacio, the tour provider, keeps the group intimate (no more than 10 people), which enhances the experience—your guide can answer questions and tailor the conversation to your interests. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, which flies by thanks to the diverse stops and engaging commentary.

Entry to the basilica is included, though it’s worth noting that occasionally it might be closed for events. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is key. It’s stroller accessible but not wheelchair friendly, and the physical activity level is moderate—be ready for some walking and standing.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

Many reviewers highlight the expert guides as a major plus. Their deep local knowledge, combined with friendly, approachable personalities, makes the tour feel like exploring with a knowledgeable friend. Several reviews mention guides like Melanie, Gabby, and Chris, who seem to truly love sharing Montreal’s secrets.

Another big plus is the balance of history, art, and local life. You’ll see landmarks like Notre-Dame Basilica but also explore neighborhoods full of street art, modern murals, and lively street scenes. The inclusion of food and beverage tastings, along with personalized recommendations, adds extra value—these aren’t just sightseeing stops, but opportunities to connect with Montreal’s local flavor.

At $57 per person, considering the small group size and the comprehensive nature of this experience, it offers more than just a surface-level tour. It’s about getting a sense of Montreal’s soul, its contradictions, and its creative spirit—all in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you enjoy walking and aren’t bothered by a bit of physical activity, you’ll appreciate how much this tour packs into just over two hours. It’s ideal for those who want to see the city beyond the cliché, especially if you’re curious about street art, local neighborhoods, and hidden gems. It’s also great for travelers who want insider tips and personalized recommendations to continue exploring on their own.

This tour does not cater to wheelchair users or very young children, given the walking involved and the nature of the stops. But for anyone with a moderate fitness level and a desire to experience Montreal’s authentic side, this is a compelling choice.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions because it makes good use of Montreal’s interior and underground city, so dress accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which is a good length for a comprehensive yet manageable exploration.

Is food and drink included?
Yes, the tour includes one food and one beverage tasting when possible, and you’ll also get a local guide’s list of personal recommendations.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The tour is stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible. Be prepared for some walking and standing.

What is the group size?
Limited to a maximum of 10 participants to ensure a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for your trip planning.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a real, down-to-earth look at Montreal, avoiding the crowded tourist spots and enjoying local life, this tour has much to offer. The carefully curated stops, knowledgeable guides, and small group size make it stand out as a thoughtful way to get to know the city beyond the usual highlights.

Whether you’re visiting Montreal for the first time or returning to explore deeper, this experience is a smart pick. It combines history, art, food, and vibrant neighborhoods in a way that makes the city feel accessible and inviting. Just be ready to walk a bit, come with an open mind, and enjoy discovering Montreal like a local.

Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: