Montreal: Guided Bar Crawl with Free Shots and Club Entry

If you’re planning a night out in Montreal and want to experience the city’s lively bar scene without the hassle of waiting in lines or worrying about where to go next, a guided pub crawl might be just what you need. This tour, offered by Pub Crawl MTL, promises a fun four-hour journey through some of Montreal’s popular bars and a nightclub, complete with free shots and VIP access. But does it really hit the spot for a night out? Let’s break down what you can expect and whether it’s worth your time and money.

We like that this experience offers a chance to meet new people from around the world and get a taste of local nightlife with some extra perks like free shots and skip-the-line club entry. It’s especially appealing for those who want a social, inclusive vibe rather than wandering alone. However, some reviews point out that the quality of the venues and the drinks might not match the price, which is something to consider. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a lively group atmosphere and don’t mind a scripted schedule—if you prefer discovering underground spots on your own, this might not be your thing.

Key Points

• Social atmosphere: Meet travelers and locals alike in a friendly group setting.
• Includes free shots and VIP entry: Good value if you’re looking to skip lines and enjoy some drinks included.
• Variety of venues: Visit 2-3 bars and end at a nightclub, mainly on the same street.
• Price point: At $41, it’s a moderately priced way to explore Montreal nightlife but may not include premium drinks.
• Guide’s role: Guides help initiate the group, but some reviews mention they leave early or aren’t very involved.
• Age restrictions: Not suitable for children or pregnant women; strictly 18+.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Offers

The experience kicks off with a meet-up at a cozy bar, where your guide will introduce the group and get things started with a welcome shot. This is a nice, relaxed way to break the ice and start the evening. You’ll then purchase your own drinks (beyond the shots included) and mingle, feeling the buzz of anticipation for the night ahead.

From there, the tour moves to two or three bars, each with its own vibe. The focus is on creating a convivial atmosphere — you’re encouraged to down shots with your group, which can be a fun way to loosen up and bond quickly. The venues are described as attracting both locals and travelers, so you’ll get a glimpse of how Montrealers spend their evenings, at least within the scope of this guided experience.

The Bars and Atmosphere

Most of the visits are on the same street, which makes navigation easy and reduces the feeling of rushing between locations. The first bar tends to be casual and welcoming, with a lively crowd. The second may be slightly more energetic, while the third lounge offers a more laid-back vibe before heading to the final stop.

However, some reviews mention that the atmosphere in some venues can be underwhelming. One traveler said, “All three places were on the same street, so you didn’t really need a guide,” implying that the guided element isn’t always necessary for experienced pub crawlers. Still, the VIP wristband earned at the last stop is a definite plus, helping you avoid long lines at the nightclub.

The Nightclub Experience

The final destination is a Montreal nightclub where you’ll enjoy VIP entry. This means no waiting in long lines or paying extra at the door—something that can save you time and frustration during a busy night. Once inside, the group can hit the dance floor and keep the party going. The guide’s role might diminish here, as some reviews note that they leave early, but the VIP access at least ensures you’re not stuck outside battling the cold or queueing.

Pricing and Value

At $41 per person, the tour seems reasonably priced considering it includes guided visits, free shots, and VIP club entry. For many, this offers good value compared to independently hopping between bars and paying cover charges individually. Yet, some travelers feel that the included drinks are not of high quality — one review describes the shots as “very cheap and tasting disgusting,” and mentions buying their own drinks afterward.

It’s also worth noting that the experience lasts about 4 hours, which is a solid chunk of time to enjoy Montreal’s nightlife without it feeling overly drawn out. If you’re on a budget or prefer to pay as you go, this might seem less attractive, especially if you plan to drink more or explore on your own.

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What’s Not Included

Beyond the free shots and club entry, additional drinks are not included. So if you’re thirsty or want to try specific cocktails, be prepared to pay out of pocket. This can add up, especially if you’re a big drinker. It’s a good idea to set a budget for drinks beyond what the tour provides.

The Guide: Friend or Foe?

Reviews suggest that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, but some mention that they don’t stay involved throughout the night. One traveler pointed out that their guide “only there for a little and then dipped out,” which might be disappointing if you’re expecting more interaction or local insights. On the plus side, guides do help organize entry and keep the group moving, which is helpful if you’re unfamiliar with Montreal.

Practical Tips

• Meet-up point: Ask the bartenders or staff inside the first bar for the guide’s location.
• ID: Don’t forget your passport or ID card; it’s required for club entry.
• Dress code: Avoid sandals, hats, sleeveless shirts, and sportswear to comply with the dress code.
• Age restrictions: Not suitable for children or pregnant women; strictly 18+.
• Language: Tours are offered in English and French, so communicate in whichever you’re comfortable with.
• Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This guided pub crawl is ideal for travelers looking for a social experience with guided convenience. If you enjoy meeting new people, trying a few shots, and ending the night at a club with VIP access, you’ll probably enjoy it. It’s also suited for those who don’t mind a somewhat scripted schedule and are happy with a few venues on the same street.

However, if you’re particular about the quality of venues or want a more authentic, underground night out, you might find this tour somewhat limited. It’s not designed for those who want to experience Montreal’s nightlife independently or explore lesser-known spots.

Final Thoughts

This Montreal guided bar crawl offers a fun and social way to discover some of the city’s nightlife, especially if you’re new to the scene or traveling with friends. The inclusion of free shots and VIP club entry offers a good value, though the quality of drinks and venues may vary, and some may find the experience somewhat commercialized. Guides are friendly and helpful, but their level of involvement can differ.

For travelers seeking a lively, group-oriented evening with the convenience of skip-the-line access to a Montreal nightclub, this tour hits the right notes. But if you’re after a more authentic, low-key night out or have high expectations for the venues, you might want to consider exploring on your own or looking for other experiences.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Montreal?
Yes, it’s a good way to get a quick overview of the nightlife on a guided night out, especially if you’re new to the city and want a social experience.

How many bars do we visit?
Typically, you’ll visit 2 or 3 bars and then end at a nightclub. The exact number can vary, but it’s usually on this schedule.

Are drinks included in the price?
The tour includes free shots at each venue and VIP entry to the club. Beyond that, you should budget for your own drinks if you want more.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Since shots are part of the experience, this tour isn’t suitable for those who don’t consume alcohol.

What should I wear?
Avoid sandals, flip-flops, hats, sleeveless shirts, and sportswear, as these are not allowed at the venues. Dress smart casual to ensure smooth entry.

How early should I arrive for the meet-up?
It’s best to arrive a few minutes early and ask staff for the guide inside the first bar to find the group.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility for last-minute adjustments.

If you’re ready for a lively night out with plenty of new people and some VIP perks, this Montreal pub crawl could be a fun choice—just keep your expectations aligned with the reviews, and you’ll likely have a good time.

You can check availability for your dates here: