Bike/E-bike Tour Downtown, Old Montreal, Waterfront by Fitz

Exploring Montreal on Two Wheels: The Fitz Downtown, Old Montreal, Waterfront Bike Tour

Taking a guided bike tour through Montreal offers a fresh, active way to see one of North America’s most European-feeling cities. From historic Old Montreal to scenic waterfronts, this 3-hour experience by Fitz combines culture, history, and local flavor on a stylish city bike.

What we love about this tour is its relaxed pace—perfect for soaking up the sights without feeling rushed. The variety of stops, from Notre Dame Basilica to the Lachine Canal, ensures you’ll get a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s past and present. The knowledgeable guides bring stories alive with insider anecdotes, making each stop memorable. That said, the ride covers about 10 miles (15 km), mostly on flat bike paths, so it’s suitable for most riders, but those who prefer very strenuous cycling might find it a bit easy.

This tour suits travelers who want a flexible, engaging introduction to Montreal, especially those who enjoy active explorations and authentic local insights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local wanting a new perspective, this bike adventure offers an enjoyable way to see the city from a different angle.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Experience: Bikes, helmets, guide, and basket are included, making it easy to just enjoy the ride.
• Authentic Insights: Guides share stories about Montreal’s culture, history, and architecture that you won’t find in guidebooks.
• Flexible & Accessible: Mostly flat routes on bike paths, suitable for riders aged 13 and up.
• Small Groups: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Taste of Local Life: Riders visit parks, laneways, and quiet streets, giving a more genuine feel of the city beyond tourist spots.
• Ideal for First Days: Perfect way to orient yourself in Montreal while picking up tips for later adventures.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Upon arrival at their cozy cafe meeting point, you’re fitted with a stylish city bike and helmet. The casual introduction sets a friendly tone, quickly easing any pre-ride jitters. With groups capped at 10, you feel comfortably guided without feeling like just another face in the crowd.

The route begins with a glide through downtown Montreal, where you’ll pass through lively neighborhoods and iconic sights. About every 15 minutes, your guide pauses, sharing stories that paint a vivid picture of Montreal’s development—from its founding days, involving First Nations roots and French and British influences, to its current status as Canada’s cultural hub.

A highlight is the Old Port, where you’ll see historic warehouses and docks that once made Montreal a major trading hub. Reviewers like Isolde from Ireland appreciated the level of safety and the guiding enthusiasm, mentioning “JF was an amazing guide. Very passionate about his beautiful city. Felt very safe!”

Next, the tour takes you past the Place des Festivals, a bustling cultural space, and then on to Habitat 67, the famous housing complex that exemplifies Montreal’s innovative architecture. The stops here are well-timed, giving enough time to absorb the surroundings and listen to engaging stories from your guide.

One of the most talked-about stops is Notre Dame Basilica, which you might recognize from movies and postcards. The guide provides context about its architectural grandeur and its significance in Montreal’s spiritual life. Many reviews, like Elizabeth from Australia, mention how the ride was “easy” and the information “heaps about Montreal and the town’s different areas.”

The route continues along the Lachine Canal, where riders enjoy scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. Here, you’ll learn about the canal’s influence on Montreal’s economy, with guides sharing insider stories that add depth to the experience.

Finally, the tour explores beyond the typical tourist trail into lesser-known neighborhoods like the Gay Village, where you’ll see vibrant life and colorful street art, making the experience feel even more authentic.

Throughout the ride, the guides’ storytelling is lively and informative, with reviewers noting how they share tales that “you can’t find in a guidebook.” The stops for short breaks are perfectly spaced, allowing you to rest and take photos without feeling rushed.

The Value of the Experience

Pricing at $86 per person for a 3-hour tour is quite reasonable when you consider what’s included—bikes, helmets, a friendly guide, and a basket for your belongings. The small group size enhances the feeling of a personalized adventure, and the bike-friendly routes make this accessible even for casual cyclists.

For those worried about fitness levels, most of the ride is on flat, designated bike paths, and the total distance is manageable. Reviewers like Debbie from Australia appreciated the “fun afternoon” with guides like Martin, who “was very entertaining” while sharing insightful knowledge. Many mention how the tour is a fantastic way to get oriented in Montreal while enjoying the outdoors and uncovering hidden gems.

The pace allows for plenty of storytelling and photo stops, but it also offers a good amount of physical activity, making it a balanced experience for active travelers. Plus, the tips and stories shared by guides, like restaurant suggestions near the meeting point, add immediate value for planning the rest of your stay.

Practical Details and what You Should Know

The meeting takes place inside the Fitz Montreal cafe, providing a relaxed start to the tour. Arriving prepared with water and comfortable clothes helps you stay refreshed throughout. Sandals or flip-flops aren’t allowed on the bikes, so closed shoes are best.

Most tours are available in the morning and afternoon, giving you flexibility. The experience is suitable for anyone over 13, making it family-friendly as long as all participants are comfortable riding bikes.

In case of changing plans, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind. You can also reserve your spot now and pay later, which is handy for flexible travel schedules.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Who Will Love This Tour?

This bike adventure is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Montreal, especially if you prefer active tourism over bus or walking tours. It suits travelers eager to learn from passionate guides, who love sharing insider stories and personal anecdotes.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy cycling, this small-group experience ensures everyone feels comfortable and engaged. For those who want a mix of sightseeing, local culture, and light exercise, this tour ticks all the boxes.

And if you’re someone who appreciates a relaxed pace with plenty of breaks, while still covering major sights and hidden corners, you’d find this a rewarding way to spend part of your day.

FAQ

Is the bike tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, most of the ride is on flat, bike-friendly paths, and the overall distance is manageable for most riders aged 13 and older.

What is included in the tour price?
You get a bike, helmet, guide, and a basket for your belongings. The tour lasts around 3 hours with frequent stops.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, you can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes, participants must be over 13 years old. The ride suits most casual riders in good health.

Where does the tour start?
Meet inside the Fitz Montreal cafe, where you’ll be fitted with your bike and helmet before starting.

How much cycling is involved?
The ride covers approximately 10 miles (15 km), with plenty of breaks, making it suitable for those who enjoy moderate activity.

Are the routes safe and accessible?
Most of the route is on dedicated bicycle paths, and guides prioritize safety, sharing interesting stories along the way.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable on bikes and over 13 years old.

Final Thoughts

This guided bike tour by Fitz offers a well-rounded glance at Montreal’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and local life—all at a leisurely pace. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtfully curated stops create an experience that feels personal yet informative.

Whether you’re eager to get your bearings in the city or simply want to explore its neighborhoods in a relaxed, enjoyable way, this tour delivers. You’ll see iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Basilica and Old Port, learn fascinating stories, and perhaps even discover some hidden gems along the way.

For active travelers who love storytelling and authentic experiences, this ride is a solid choice. It’s especially valuable for those who want to combine sightseeing with light exercise, making it a memorable and practical introduction to Montreal’s diverse neighborhoods.

In summary, if you value engaging guides, scenic routes, and insightful commentary, this bike tour will likely be a highlight of your Montreal trip—offering both fun and a deeper understanding of the city’s soul.

You can check if your dates are available here: