Montreal: The Original Murals and Street Art Walking Tour

Explore Montreal's vibrant street art scene on this small-group mural tour, discovering stunning murals and local stories with passionate guides.

If you’re into colorful cityscapes, creative expression, and discovering neighborhoods through art, then the Montreal mural and street art tour offers a lively peek into one of Canada’s most dynamic urban art scenes. While I haven’t personally taken this walk, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect—and it sounds pretty fantastic.

What I love about this experience is how it combines a leisurely walk with deep insights into the local art culture, all guided by passionate, knowledgeable guides. Plus, the fact that it’s a small-group tour—capped at just 10 people—means you get more personalized attention and better chances to ask questions. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it’s a two-hour walk, so if you’re not keen on walking or have mobility concerns, you’ll want to plan accordingly. This tour seems suited for anyone who appreciates art, enjoys exploring neighborhoods on foot, or just wants a more authentic way to see Montreal off the beaten path.

Key Points

  • Small, intimate groups ensure personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
  • Expert guides who are passionate and knowledgeable about Montreal’s street art scene.
  • A wide variety of murals, from tiny wheat pastes to massive, towering works.
  • Focus on local and international artists, offering a global perspective.
  • Great value for money at $32 for a two-hour walking tour.
  • Post-tour recommendations help you continue exploring on your own.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Montreal’s Street Art Scene: What to Expect

The Montreal mural and street art tour is designed to give you an insider’s view of the city’s vibrant outdoor gallery along Saint-Laurent Boulevard, often called the Main. This street is a hub of creativity, hosting works created during the country’s largest street art festival, the MURAL festival. The tour is a fun, laid-back way to learn about the stories, techniques, and talented artists behind the murals.

The itinerary at a glance

You’ll begin outside 3526 Saint Laurent, next to a red fire hydrant and an Irish pub, where your guide will meet you. From there, the walk zigzags through streets and alleys, allowing you to see murals at different scales and styles. Expect to see works by local artists and those from around the world, with some murals towering up to 10 stories high, and others more subtle wheat pastes. The guide will point out smaller installations and explain what makes each one special.

Walking along the Main

The tour takes you along the Main, the dividing line between Montreal’s east and west neighborhoods. This area is a concentrated outdoor art space, making it perfect for a stroll that feels more like discovering a hidden outdoor art museum than a typical city walk. The pace is comfortable, giving you plenty of time to stop, take photos, and listen to stories behind the murals.

What you’ll see and learn

According to reviews, guides share insights about techniques used by artists—like wheat pasting—and the meaning behind the murals. One reviewer loved that their guide “loved his job / art and transported his passion,” which makes the tour lively and engaging. Another appreciated the background provided for each mural, making it easier to connect with the art emotionally.

You’ll also learn about Montreal’s reputation as the city with the largest concentration of street artists in the country, and discover why it’s such a magnet for creatives. The murals are a mix of styles—sometimes politically charged, often vibrant, and occasionally humorous or poignant.

More Great Tours Nearby

The tour in numbers

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Price: $32 per person
  • Group size: Limited to 10 for a more intimate experience
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller friendly, and most surfaces are suitable for those with mobility needs
  • Language: Guided in English
  • Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexible planning

The value for your money

At just $32, this tour packs in quite a bit. You’re not just getting a casual walk; you’re receiving expert commentary, a curated list of murals, and personal recommendations for restaurants and bars to explore afterward. Many reviewers point out that they felt it was “great value for money,” with plenty of time to admire the art and ask questions.

What the reviews reveal

Most participants rave about their guides, describing them as knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate. One reviewer said their guide “transported his passion,” which really shows how much guides care about sharing Montreal’s street art culture. The majority agree that the tour is well-paced, with plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos.

Even when rain threatened to dampen the experience, reviews mention that guides went out of their way to keep everyone comfortable—like sharing umbrellas—highlighting their dedication and kindness.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re art lovers, curious travelers, or those interested in urban culture. It’s suitable for people with mobility needs, thanks to wheelchair and stroller accessibility. If you’re traveling with children who enjoy murals or street art, they might enjoy the visual feast, though the tour’s focus on art techniques and stories might be more engaging for older kids or teens.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, engaging, and insightful way to see Montreal’s street art, this walk offers a genuine glimpse into an evolving outdoor gallery.

Final thoughts

The Montreal: The Original Murals and Street Art Walking Tour offers a chance to see the city through a colorful lens, guided by locals who are passionate about their vibrant neighborhood. The small group setting means you’ll get a personalized experience that’s both informative and fun. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of art education, all without breaking the bank.

While it’s focused on street art and murals, the tour’s stories and insider tips help you appreciate Montreal’s creative pulse. The combination of talented guides, stunning visuals, and local insights makes this experience stand out, especially if you’ve got an interest in urban art scenes.

All in all, this tour delivers a thoughtful, visually engaging, and authentic taste of Montreal’s street art culture that you’ll remember long after the murals fade from view.

Ready to Book?

Montreal: The Original Murals and Street Art Walking Tour



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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, with surfaces suitable for those with mobility needs.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, providing enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, which ensures a more personalized experience.

What is the price?
The tour costs $32 per person, offering good value considering the guided insights and curated murals.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Where does the tour start?
Meet outside 3526 Saint Laurent, next to a red fire hydrant and an Irish pub, about ten minutes walk up from Saint-Laurent Métro Station.

Can I join if it rains?
Yes, rain isn’t a problem—guides have been known to share umbrellas and keep the tour going, making it a flexible outdoor experience.

Are there food or drink stops on the tour?
The tour itself doesn’t include breaks, but guides will offer recommendations for restaurants and bars afterward so you can continue exploring.

Is this tour good for families?
While the focus is on art and stories, it’s suitable for older children and teens who enjoy murals. The pace and setting are casual and family-friendly.

If you’re after a meaningful yet accessible way to explore Montreal’s street art, this tour hits all the right notes—passionate guides, striking murals, and a deep dive into urban creativity. Whether you’re a first-timer or a street art enthusiast, it’s a smart, engaging outing that adds a splash of color to your Montreal trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: