Montreal: Small Group Tour with River Cruise and Notre Dame

Planning a quick trip to Montreal and looking to make the most of your limited time? This 6-hour small group tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s most iconic sights, combined with a relaxing cruise on the St. Lawrence River. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves.

What we really like about this experience is how it blends driving, sightseeing, and leisure — giving you the complete Montreal story in a manageable package. Plus, the guides tend to be knowledgeable and personable, turning a regular tour into something memorable. That said, a key thing to consider is that the boat cruise is seasonal, so if you’re visiting outside summer months, it’s replaced with a visit to La Grande Roue.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors or those with tight schedules who still want a meaningful overview of Montreal’s culture, history, and stunning views. It’s especially suited for small groups, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention.

Key Points

• Comprehensive route covering top sights and viewpoints
• Small group size (max 6 guests) for personalized experience
• Includes a boat cruise or alternative depending on the season
• Expert guides with live narration and detailed insights
• All attraction admission fees covered
• Hotel pickup and drop-off within downtown Montreal
• Balanced mix of driving and walking for varied experience
• Great for time-starved travelers wanting a broad overview

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

If you’ve ever wanted to get a solid feel for Montreal without spending days on end, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s a good way to see the city’s most beloved attractions while also enjoying some relaxing moments on the water. We’ll walk through what makes each part of the day special, what you can expect, and some tips based on reviews.

Starting Off: Convenient Pickup and Intimate Group Setting

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in downtown Montreal, which is a real plus if you’re staying centrally. The van is air-conditioned, modern, and comfortable, setting a relaxed tone from the start. With only about six guests per group, you won’t be lost in a crowd — this makes asking questions easier and interactions more personal.

From the moment you step into the van, your guide begins sharing insights about Montreal, setting a friendly, informative tone. This personalized approach, praised by reviews, makes the entire experience feel more like a day out with friends rather than a generic tour.

Exploring Mont Royal and the City Views

One of the standouts is the drive up Mont Royal, where your guide takes you to the best panoramic viewpoint. The drive itself is scenic, passing through neighborhoods like the Golden Square Mile—known for its Victorian architecture—and McGill University, giving you a quick taste of Montreal’s diverse districts.

Once at the top, the Mont Royal Lookout provides a sweeping view of the city, the Saint Lawrence River, and the surrounding mountains. If the weather is clear, you’ll understand why this spot is a favorite for both locals and visitors. We loved how the guide gave in-depth background info, making the scenery richer.

Visiting Notre Dame Basilica and Old Montreal

Next, the tour takes you into Old Montreal, with its cobblestone streets and historic charm. The highlight here is the Notre Dame Basilica, a gothic-revival masterpiece. The interior is impressive, with stained glass and ornate woodwork. Since admission is included (subject to availability), you can skip the long lines that often form for this popular site.

The guide will point out other historic buildings and share fascinating stories, making the walk through Old Montreal feel lively and educational. Many reviews mention how the guide’s knowledge transforms a simple sightseeing walk into a mini history lesson.

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Visiting St Joseph’s Oratory and the Port of Montreal Tower

Another big highlight is St Joseph’s Oratory, perched on Mount Royal’s slopes. It’s a beautiful basilica and a spiritual symbol for Montrealers. The guide provides context about its significance and architecture, making your visit more meaningful.

The tour also includes a visit to the Port of Montreal Tower, a modern glass structure that offers stunning city and river views from its 65-meter height. During the season, this can be a real wow moment, and the reviews support this, with people appreciating the breathtaking vistas.

The River Cruise: Relaxing and Informative

The cruise along the Saint Lawrence River is often rated as the best part of the tour. It’s a chance to relax, enjoy the scenery, and hear live commentary about Montreal’s history and geography. Travelers love the opportunity to see the city from the water, which offers a different perspective from land-based views.

However, it’s worth noting that the cruise is seasonal — only available in summer. During off-season months, the cruise is replaced with a visit to La Grande Roue, which still offers impressive views but might not be quite the same experience.

The cruise’s positive reviews repeatedly mention how it adds an extra dimension to the tour, making it feel complete. Many reviewers describe it as a highlight, especially for photo opportunities and soaking in the city’s skyline.

Visiting the Port of Montreal Tower and Wrap-up

Post-cruise, your guide will take you to the Port of Montreal Tower for one last breathtaking view. Standing 65 meters tall, the tower’s glass design offers a modern contrast to the city’s historic charm. It’s a fitting finale, giving you a panoramic perspective of downtown Montreal and the river.

The tour concludes with the guide dropping you back at your hotel, which is convenient after a full day of sightseeing.

How Good Is the Value?

At $158 per person, this tour offers a lot. You get admission to key sites, a boat cruise or an alternative view, hotel pickup and drop-off, and personalized attention in a small group. Reviewers consistently mention how much they feel they gained for the price — from historical insights to stunning vistas.

When you consider the cost of individual tickets for attractions or the hassle of organizing these sights separately, this package is quite reasonable for what it provides.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the seasonality of the cruise—if you’re visiting in winter or shoulder seasons, you’ll miss out on the boat ride. However, the replacement activity (La Grande Roue) still offers good views.

Some travelers also note that the tour covers a lot in a limited time, which can feel rushed—especially at busy sites like Notre Dame Basilica. Wearing comfortable shoes and being prepared for a fair amount of walking will help.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick, yet comprehensive, overview of Montreal. It’s also great for those who prefer a small-group setting and want a guided experience with insider commentary. Families with older children or groups of friends will find it flexible and engaging.

If you’re after more in-depth exploration or a leisurely pace, you might want to consider longer tours or self-guided options. But for an efficient, enjoyable introduction to Montreal’s highlights, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, pickup is included for hotels located in downtown Montreal, making it easy to start your day hassle-free.
What is the tour duration? The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including driving, sightseeing, and the cruise.
What should I bring? Wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially since outdoor stops are part of the experience.
Does the boat cruise operate year-round? No, the cruise is seasonal and only runs during the summer months. In the off-season, it’s replaced with a visit to La Grande Roue.
What is the group size? The tour is limited to around 6 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Are attraction admissions included? Yes, including Notre Dame Basilica (availability permitting) and the Port of Montreal Tower.
Is this tour suitable for children? While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children and teens who enjoy sightseeing will find it engaging.
How scenic is the Mont Royal viewpoint? Expect stunning, panoramic views of Montreal and the surrounding mountains, making it a photo-worthy stop.
Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in your travel plans.

In all, this Montreal tour offers a balanced, engaging way to see the city’s highlights in a manageable timeframe. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just eager to tick off major sights, you’ll likely find it a worthwhile addition to your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: