Full-Day Montreal City Tour from Ottawa and optional cruise

Exploring Montreal in a Day: A Comprehensive Review of the Full-Day Ottawa to Montreal Tour

Traveling from Ottawa to Montreal for a day offers a fantastic escape into a city that feels more like a European capital than a Canadian metropolis. This full-day Montreal city tour by Concord Tours & Travel promises a blend of guided sightseeing, culture, and relaxing river views—all packed into just one day. It’s perfect for those with limited time but eager to experience Montreal’s unique vibe.

What immediately appeals to us are the professional guidance, the chance to see iconic landmarks like Mount Royal and Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and the scenic AML cruise on the St. Lawrence River. Plus, there’s free time built into the day for a leisurely meal or boutique shopping. A potential consideration is the long travel time from Ottawa, so this trip works best for energetic travelers who love to pack in sights without the need for overnight stays.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, culture enthusiasts, or anyone curious about experiencing Montreal’s blend of old-world charm and modern urban life. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or a small group, this day trip offers a practical and enjoyable way to get a taste of Quebec’s largest city without the hassle of planning.

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary with guided tours and free time for personal exploration
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from Ottawa
• Knowledgeable bilingual guides provide cultural insights and local tips
• Includes a scenic cruise on the St. Lawrence River for stunning waterfront views
• Affordable price point of $71 per person for a full day of sightseeing
• Not suited for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Montreal Full-Day Tour

The Journey Begins: Convenient Transportation from Ottawa

Starting from a meeting point in front of McDonald’s, the tour kicks off with a smooth, air-conditioned ride to Montreal. If you opt in for hotel pickup—available from Ottawa hotels within 5 km of 670 Bronson Ave—you’ll appreciate the added convenience. The journey itself is about 2 hours, giving you time to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or enjoy the scenic views of the countryside.

The driver and guide, who are fluent in both English and French, set a friendly, informative tone right from the start. Based on the review, guides like “Lina” are praised for their knowledge and approachable manner—making the long drive feel more like a friendly chat than a boring bus ride.

Exploring Mount Royal and Saint Joseph’s Oratory

Your first stops are Mount Royal and Saint Joseph’s Oratory—two of Montreal’s most beloved landmarks. We loved the guided visit to Mount Royal, offering panoramic views of the city from the lookout. The guide shares tidbits about the park’s history and its significance to Montrealers, making the experience more engaging.

Following this, the group visits Saint Joseph’s Oratory, a stunning religious site perched on Mount Royal. Inside, the atmosphere is peaceful, and the guides often highlight the church’s impressive architecture and spiritual importance. Reviewers mention guides like “Alex” who expertly blend historical context with personal stories, enriching the visit.

Strolling Through Old Montreal

Next, you’re guided through Old Montreal, a neighborhood that oozes European charm. Expect cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively cafes. While the tour isn’t a full walking tour of every alley, the guide points out key sights such as the Notre-Dame Basilica (note: entry fees are extra), and shares stories behind the architecture and history of this district.

Free time here is valuable: you can grab a pastry, browse boutique shops, or just soak in the atmosphere. Several reviews commend the balance of guided exploration and free exploration, which allows you to tailor your experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Scenic Cruise on the St. Lawrence River

One of the tour’s highlights is the scenic AML cruise—about an hour long—offering stunning views of Montreal’s skyline and waterfront. Travelers, including those “who loved the views,” find this cruise relaxing and picturesque, especially as the city’s skyline reflects off the water.

The cruise is an optional add-on, with fees not included in the base price of $71. If you love water views and want a different perspective of Montreal’s geography and architecture, this cruise is well worth considering.

Leisure Time for Local Flavors and Shopping

After the cruise, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own. Many travelers choose to enjoy a local meal or pop into boutique shops. The tour’s flexibility here is appreciated; you can relax in a café, pick up souvenirs, or simply enjoy strolling through Montreal’s streets.

Practical Details and Value

At only $71 per person, this tour packs a lot of value. The cost covers round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and the cruise, which are significant perks considering how much ground and sights you see. Meal costs, entry fees to certain attractions like Notre-Dame Basilica, and the cruise are extra, so plan accordingly.

Reviewers highlight that the guides’ knowledge and friendliness make the experience stand out. One mentioned how “the guides brought the city to life with their stories,” which really enhanced the sightseeing.

Considerations and Limitations

The main limitation is the long day of travel—approximately 4-5 hours on the road, in addition to sightseeing time. This could be tiring if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are not used to long bus journeys.

Also, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues should consider this. The schedule is packed, so those looking for a leisurely, unhurried experience might find it a bit rushed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors eager to get a rundown of Montreal’s highlights. It’s perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, or anyone wanting a cost-effective way to see a lot in one day. If you’re comfortable with a fairly full schedule and enjoy guided insights, this trip will suit you well.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility challenges or those seeking a more relaxed, unstructured day. Also, if you’re a waterfront enthusiast, the cruise adds a scenic flourish that makes the trip more memorable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Montreal day trip from Ottawa offers an excellent value with a balanced mix of guided tours, free time, and scenic views. The bilingual guides help deepen your understanding of the city’s unique blend of European flair and North American energy.

The scenic cruise along the St. Lawrence River** elevates the experience, offering a tranquil break and beautiful vistas. The comfort of air-conditioned transportation and the opportunity to explore key landmarks make it a practical choice for those wanting a quick but satisfying taste of Montreal.

While it’s a long day, the carefully curated itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and picturesque settings make it worthwhile. It’s especially appealing to those who appreciate cultural insights, scenic views, and a bit of free time to explore at their own pace.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, hotel pickup is available from Ottawa hotels within 5 km of 670 Bronson Ave. You’ll need to be ready in your hotel lobby 15 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.

How much does the cruise cost? The cruise is an optional activity with additional fees not included in the tour price. It’s a scenic 1-hour AML cruise offering wonderful views of Montreal’s waterfront.

What landmarks will we see? You’ll visit Mount Royal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and Old Montreal. The tour also highlights other iconic sights, with guides sharing stories behind each.

Is this tour suitable for children or families? While perfect for adults, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users or travelers with mobility issues. The schedule can be busy and lengthy for very young children.

How long is the drive from Ottawa to Montreal? The round-trip transportation takes approximately 2 hours each way, so expect a total travel time of about 4 hours plus sightseeing.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

In summary, this full-day Montreal tour from Ottawa provides a well-rounded, value-packed experience emphasizing key sights, scenic beauty, and cultural insights. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a taste of Montreal’s charm in a single day, especially if guided tours and scenic views are your thing.

You can check if your dates are available here: