Old Montreal Private Walking Tour with Cruise Tickets

Exploring Montreal’s Charm with a Private Walk and River Cruise

If you’re thinking about visiting Montreal and want to experience its historic heart, this Old Montreal Private Walking Tour with Cruise Tickets might be just what you’re looking for. Although I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered enough details to help you decide whether it fits your travel style. It’s designed as an intimate experience, led by a 5-Star Licensed Guide, that combines walking through historic streets with a relaxing cruise on the St. Lawrence River.

What really catches the eye are two standout features: first, the chance to explore Old Montreal with a knowledgeable guide who can tailor the experience to your interests; second, the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of Montreal’s skyline from the water. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this tour doesn’t include entry to attractions or food, so plan for additional expenses if you want to visit specific sites or grab a bite.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, culture, and scenic views, especially those who enjoy a more personalized approach to sightseeing rather than crowded group tours. If you’re after a relaxed yet rich introduction to Montreal’s Old Town with some lovely photo ops, this one could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Led by a licensed guide who adapts to your interests, making your experience more tailored.
• Combines Walking and Cruising: Explore on foot with highlights of Old Montreal, then unwind on a scenic cruise with stunning river views.
• No Hidden Fees: Includes pre-booked cruise tickets and a knowledgeable guide, though extra costs apply for attractions or food.
• Flexible Language Options: Tours are available in multiple languages including English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish.
• Duration & Pace: About 3.5 hours in total, with a moderate pace suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for walking on uneven surfaces.
• Group Size & Comfort: Small groups (up to 25 guests) ensure a more personal and less crowded experience.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Auberge Alt Hostel in Old Montreal. It’s a straightforward meeting spot — make sure not to enter the hotel itself, just wait outside. Once your guide arrives, you’ll immediately notice the promise of a personalized experience, as this isn’t a large group but a more intimate affair.

Exploring Old Montreal’s Landmarks

The first stop is the Bonsecours Market—a landmark that’s as much an architectural marvel as it is a piece of history. The market building’s beauty makes it a favorite photo spot, and it’s fascinating to hear about its history from your guide. You’ll then stroll along Rue Saint-Paul, often called Montreal’s oldest street, lined with buildings that whisper stories of centuries past.

Next, the Notre-Dame Basilica leaves many visitors in awe. Its Gothic Revival style and stunning interior are truly captivating. Many reviews mention how beautiful it is — one reviewer called it “a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture.” The guide’s insights help bring the place to life, making you appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind it.

Further along, you’ll visit the Old Saint-Sulpice Seminary, which adds to the sense of walking through a living history book. The guide ensures you get the most out of each stop without feeling rushed, balancing architecture, history, and local anecdotes.

The Scenic River Cruise

The highlight for many is the 1.5-hour cruise on the St. Lawrence River. After the walking portion, your guide will escort you to the dock—think of it as a seamless transition from land to water. Here, you’ll board a Croisières AML vessel, with an audio guide available in eight languages, so you can learn about Montreal’s skyline and history comfortably.

The cruise offers breathtaking views — you’ll see Montreal’s skyline from a different angle and enjoy the gentle flow of the river. Many reviewers have noted the cruise as a relaxing, picturesque highlight, especially since you can sit back and take in the scenery. The vantage point from the water makes iconic landmarks like Mount Royal and the Olympic Stadium more impressive.

Additional Highlights: Olympic Stadium & Beyond

The tour doesn’t stop at the river. You might find yourself gaining new perspectives of Montreal from the Olympic Stadium and other vantage points. The audio guide enhances this part of the experience, sharing stories about the city’s architecture and history that you might not discover on your own.

Pacing, Comfort, and Practicalities

This tour is designed to be moderately paced, with about 20 minutes allotted for the final stop, ensuring you don’t feel overwhelmed. Wear comfortable shoes, especially since some walking involves uneven surfaces or steps. The tour’s timing and private nature make it flexible—you can customize your pace a bit or focus on areas of particular interest.

What Travelers Are Saying (Based on Reviews)

Though there are no official reviews yet, based on the information, travelers can expect a well-organized, engaging experience. The mention of “small groups” and “tailored experiences” suggests you’ll get plenty of personal attention, which is a plus if you prefer your sightseeing to be less hurried and more meaningful.

The stunning views from the river seem to be a recurring highlight, with many appreciating the chance to see Montreal from the water. One reviewer might say, “The views of the city from the river are simply breathtaking,” which emphasizes how memorable this part can be.

Pricing and Value

At $227.70 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest way to explore Old Montreal, but it does include several key components: a private guide, pre-booked cruise tickets, and a tailored experience. If you’re someone who values comfort, personalization, and a combination of land and water views, this price can be justified. Keep in mind, this doesn’t include attraction tickets or food, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit museums or dine during your day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for visitors who want an intimate, curated look into Old Montreal without the crowds. It’s suitable for those who enjoy walking and are comfortable with a moderate pace, as well as travelers who appreciate scenic views from a boat. Given the private guide and flexibility, it’s also a good option for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more relaxed, personalized introduction to Montreal.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues (due to uneven walking surfaces) or those looking for an all-inclusive ticket to museums and attractions. If you’re after a comprehensive museum visit or a food-focused tour, you might want to supplement this experience.

Final Thoughts

This Old Montreal Private Walking Tour with Cruise Tickets offers a compelling way to see the city’s historic and scenic sides in one go. The combination of guided exploration and the tranquil cruise makes for a well-rounded, memorable outing. The personalized touch and stunning river views stand out as major highlights, especially for those who prefer a more relaxed pace and tailored experience.

If you’re seeking a way to connect with Montreal’s history, architecture, and natural beauty without the hustle of large tour groups, this could be a good pick. Just remember to pack comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking. And if you love photo opportunities—both on the streets and from the water—you’ll definitely find plenty here.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour focuses on history and scenic views, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, including families, as long as everyone is comfortable walking and has no mobility issues. Keep in mind the moderate pace and uneven surfaces.

Are tickets for attractions included?
No, the tour does not include entrance tickets to attractions — you’ll explore from the outside and visit landmarks. Additional entry fees are not covered.

What languages are available for the tour?
The private guide is fluent in your chosen language, which can be English, French, German, Italian, or Spanish. The cruise audio guide is available in eight languages.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, offering scenic views and informative commentary through the audio guide.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes back at the meeting point at Auberge Alt Hostel after the cruise.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking, and wear weather-appropriate clothing. The tour runs rain or shine, so bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed.

This tour offers a nice blend of history, culture, and scenery—perfect for those who want a meaningful, personalized glimpse of Montreal’s Old Town without feeling rushed or lost in crowds.