Third Wave Coffee Tour in Montreal with Expert Guide

If you’re a coffee lover visiting Montreal, chances are you’re already dreaming of that perfect cup. A Third Wave Coffee Tour promises not only to indulge your caffeine obsession but also to give you a deeper understanding of what makes Montreal’s coffee scene unique. While I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ve looked into what it offers, and it sounds like a pretty well-rounded experience—especially if you enjoy tasting new brews and learning about coffee’s journey from bean to cup.

What really catches my eye about this tour are the hands-on experiences—like roasting your own blend—and the chance to visit five different coffee spots across Montreal’s vibrant neighborhoods. Plus, it includes plenty of tastings, snacks, and even an espresso martini, making it more of a culinary adventure than just a sightseeing walk. At the same time, it’s a full 4.5 hours of guided exploration, so it’s best suited for those who like to spend time savoring rather than rushing from place to place.

One thing to consider is that this tour involves quite a bit of coffee consumption—so if you’re not used to drinking multiple cups or are sensitive to caffeine, it might be worth pacing yourself. Also, since it’s primarily focused on coffee, it’s not ideal for those under 18 or pregnant women. But overall, it’s a fantastic option for those who want to dive into Montreal’s coffee culture with a knowledgeable guide at your side.

This tour would suit curious travelers who appreciate good food, enjoy learning new skills, or are simply passionate about coffee. It’s also ideal if you want to explore Montreal’s neighborhoods in a relaxed but engaging way. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee fan or just curious about the brewing process, this experience offers enough variety to keep you interested.

Key Points

• In-depth coffee tastings across five local spots, including pastries and snacks
• Hands-on brewing: roast your own coffee blend and learn different brewing techniques
• Expert guide provides storytelling and background on coffee history and Montreal’s neighborhoods
• Includes an espresso martini, adding a fun cocktail twist to the day
• Small group size (maximum 12 travelers), ensuring a more personal experience
• Accessible and near public transportation, making logistics easier

Exploring Montreal’s Coffee Scene: What to Expect

When you sign up for this Third Wave Coffee Tour, you’re signing up for a balanced mix of tasting, learning, and neighborhood exploring. The tour kicks off in Plateau Mont-Royal, a lively area known for its bohemian vibe. Here, the first stop is a Turkish coffee shop, where you’ll learn about the origins of coffee and get to try a traditional cup along with a simit, the Turkish version of a bagel. It’s a great way to start the day—an introduction not just to the beverage but to the cultural roots behind it.

From there, the tour moves to a coffee shop specializing in cold brew on tap, paired with croissants. The relaxed setting makes it easy to chat with your guide and fellow travelers, sharing impressions of the different brews. This stop alone is a highlight for many, especially if you’re into exploring new coffee styles or prefer a chilled glass of cold brew on a Montreal summer day.

The second neighborhood, Mile End, is known for its artsy, laid-back atmosphere. Here, you’ll visit a coffee and wine lounge, where the focus is expanded to include espresso martinis, along with vegan pastries and crudités. This stop combines coffee and cocktails, giving a fun twist to the experience—and a chance to try some of Montreal’s more inventive drinks.

Next, the tour shifts gears to Ahuntsic-Cartierville, where you’ll visit a more industrial-style coffee roaster. This part is especially appealing if you’re interested in understanding the roasting process and seeing where the magic happens behind the scenes. You’ll learn how beans are roasted and what impacts flavor profiles, making this stop particularly valuable for those who want a deeper dive into the craft of roasting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $127.56 per person might seem a bit steep at first glance, but it includes a lot—snacks, coffee and tea tastings, an alcoholic espresso martini, and a certified guide sharing stories and history. Plus, you get a bag for any purchases, which is handy if you want to bring home a bag of your favorite beans.

It’s worth noting that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation to the starting point. The tour is near public transit, which makes getting there pretty straightforward. Gratuities aren’t included—something to remember if you want to tip your guide for a job well done.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s start point is at 252 Rue Rachel E**. From here, you’ll head out with your guide to the various neighborhoods, experiencing a mix of commercial, residential, and industrial scenery—all with a coffee-focused lens.

First stop: Turkish coffee shop, learning about coffee’s origins and tasting traditional Turkish coffee. This is a nice cultural touch that sets the tone for appreciating coffee beyond just the flavor.

Next: Cold brew taproom, where you’ll sample different types of cold brew and enjoy flaky croissants. If you’re a fan of chilled coffee drinks, this will be a highlight, especially as Montreal summers can be quite warm.

Second neighborhood: Mile End, famous for its artsy vibe, where you’ll visit a cozy coffee and wine bar. The espresso martini tasting is a fun addition, and you’ll get to enjoy crudités and vegan pastries as well. This stop offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxing and chatting.

Final stop: In Ahuntsic-Cartierville, a more industrial setting where you’ll see a more traditional coffee roaster in action. Here, you’ll learn about roasting techniques and taste some freshly roasted beans, a true treat for those curious about the craft.

The tour wraps up in Little Italy, giving you a sense of the neighborhood’s vibrant life and perhaps a chance to explore further on your own.

The Experience: What Travelers Say and What to Expect

While reviews are limited, those who’ve taken the tour appreciate the delicious food and coffee tastings. One reviewer mentioned the tour as an excellent way to sample Montreal’s diverse coffee offerings without the hassle of finding the best spots on your own.

The hands-on roasting class is a big hit, especially for those interested in learning how to identify different coffee profiles through cupping. It’s an educational experience wrapped in a fun, social package.

Some have noted that the small group size helps keep things intimate and allows for more personalized interaction with the guide. The guide’s storytelling about the neighborhoods and coffee history adds a layer of context that elevates the tasting experience.

Practical Considerations

This tour lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, so be prepared for a fair bit of walking and standing. The group size is capped at 12, which keeps the experience cozy and allows everyone to ask questions and participate actively.

Since the tour involves multiple tastings and an espresso martini, it’s best suited for adults comfortable with caffeine and alcohol. If you’re pregnant or under 18, it’s probably not the right fit.

The price reflects the quality and variety of experiences, but for true coffee enthusiasts, it offers a good value—especially considering the educational components and tastings included.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to explore Montreal’s coffee culture beyond the usual cafes, this guided tour is a solid choice. It combines tastings, education, and neighborhood exploration into a manageable 4.5-hour package. You’ll walk away with new knowledge about coffee, a few new brewing skills, and plenty of delicious samples to savor.

It’s especially perfect for travelers who love food, enjoy learning new skills, or just want a relaxed way to see different parts of the city. While it’s not suited for those avoiding caffeine or alcohol, for the right crowd, it’s a fun, enriching experience that offers a taste of Montreal’s vibrant coffee scene.

If you’re looking for a tour that balances interactive learning with tasty treats and local insights, this could be just what you need to spice up your visit.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy tastings and learn about coffee.

What neighborhoods does the tour visit?
It starts in Plateau Mont-Royal, then moves to Mile End, and ends in Ahuntsic-Cartierville before finishing in Little Italy.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, the tour features snacks, pastries, crudités, coffee and tea tastings, and an espresso martini.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, due to the alcohol and caffeine involved, it’s recommended for adults only.

What about accessibility?
The tour is near public transportation, but specific accessibility details aren’t provided. It’s best to check with the provider if needed.

Can I cancel for a refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the price?
It costs around $127.56 per person, which covers tastings, the roasting class, guide, and other extras.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, the guide is certified and provides engaging stories about coffee history and the neighborhoods.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 252 Rue Rachel E and ends in Little Italy, at 57 Rue Saint-Zotique O.

All in all, if you’re into coffee, love trying new flavors, and enjoy a relaxed yet insightful experience, this Montreal coffee tour offers a flavorful way to spend part of your trip.