Old Montreal Private Walking Tour with Cruise Tickets

Exploring Old Montreal with a Private Walking Tour and Cruise: A Detailed Review

Taking a walk through Montreal’s Old Town isn’t just about ticking off landmarks—it’s about experiencing the city’s vibrant energy, historical charm, and stunning vistas in a way that feels personal and relaxed. This Old Montreal Private Walking Tour with Cruise Tickets offers just that: a chance to explore the city’s most iconic sites accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, followed by a scenic cruise on the St. Lawrence River.

What we really like about this experience is the personalized attention you get from a 5-star licensed guide, the balance of cultural highlights and panoramic views, and the convenience of combining a walking tour with a river cruise all in one package. A potential consideration is the price point of $227.70 per person, which might seem steep for budget travelers, but for those seeking an in-depth, tailored experience, it can be quite worthwhile.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who enjoy culture combined with breathtaking scenery. If you’re after a well-organized, authentic taste of Montreal’s historical core with the added bonus of a cruise, this experience ticks all those boxes.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: The private nature of this tour allows for tailored pacing and focus on your interests.
• Comprehensive Sightseeing: From historic markets to Gothic basilicas, you cover Montreal’s key landmarks.
• Scenic River Cruise: Enjoy 1.5 hours of relaxing views of Montreal’s skyline and the St. Lawrence River.
• Expert Guides: A 5-star licensed guide provides insightful commentary and local knowledge.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Starts at Auberge Alt Hostel, close to public transportation.
• All-Inclusive Ticketing: Pre-booked cruise and skip the hassle of ticket lines.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Auberge Alt Hostel

The tour kicks off right in front of the Auberge Alt Hostel on Rue Saint-Paul, a historic street that serves as a perfect gateway into Montreal’s Old Town. The meeting spot is straightforward, and because the hostel staff aren’t in the loop about the tour, it’s best to look for your guide directly outside. The initial 10-minute meet-and-greet is a good opportunity to get a quick overview and ask any last-minute questions.

First Stop: Bonsecours Market

Your adventure begins at Bonsecours Market, a site that’s as much about architecture as it is about history. As one of Montreal’s architectural marvels, the market is often called a “historic gem” because of its stunning ironwork and colorful facade. Here, your guide will introduce the story behind this 19th-century marketplace, which once buzzed with commerce. You’ll get a feel for the city’s trading past and its evolution into a cultural hub.

Many reviews highlight that walking along Rue Saint-Paul afterwards is like strolling through an open-air museum. It’s the city’s oldest street, lined with boutiques, galleries, and cafés, each with its own story. “The historic buildings along Rue Saint-Paul felt like walking through a living history book,” one traveler noted.

Notre-Dame Basilica and Old Sulpice Seminary

From there, the tour takes you to the Notre-Dame Basilica, a Gothic Revival masterpiece renowned for its dramatic interiors and intricate stained glass. Visitors often comment on the breathtaking beauty of this church, with some describing it as a “must-see” for anyone visiting Montreal. The guide will share stories about its construction and importance, which brings the space alive beyond just its visual wow factor.

Next, you’ll visit the Old Saint-Sulpice Seminary, one of Montreal’s oldest religious institutions, adding depth to your understanding of the city’s spiritual roots. The guide’s insights help connect the dots between these historic sites and Montreal’s development.

Exploring Local Landmarks

The walk continues through Place d’Armes, a lively square surrounded by historic buildings, and provides a glimpse into Montreal’s vibrant urban life. The guide adjusts the pace based on your interests—whether you want more history, architecture, or just a relaxed stroll.

The River Cruise

After about an hour of walking, the guide escorts you to the pier for the 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise. The boat, operated by Croisières AML, offers an excellent way to see the city from a different perspective. The audio guide is available in eight languages, making it accessible for international visitors. Expect to enjoy sweeping views of Montreal’s skyline, waterfront, and Mount Royal, all while relaxing onboard.

Travelers rave about the stunning vistas of Montreal’s skyline from the river—one reviewer called it “a peaceful, panoramic experience that adds a whole new layer of appreciation for the city.” The cruise is a perfect complement to the busy walking tour, offering a chance to sit back and take in the scenery.

Additional Highlights: Olympic Stadium and Mount Royal

Back on land, the tour includes a brief look at the Olympic Stadium, a symbol of Montreal’s modern history. The guide points out the stadium and shares stories about its Olympic legacy, giving you a broader perspective on the city’s architectural and cultural diversity.

Personalized and Flexible Approach

Throughout the entire experience, the guide ensures the tour remains intimate and adaptable, which means you can focus more on the sites that interest you most. One review mentioned that “the guide was very attentive and answered all my questions,” emphasizing the value of the private format.

Practical Details and Value

Price and What’s Included

At $227.70 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines a personal guide, pre-booked cruise tickets, and insightful commentary. While the price may seem high compared to typical group tours, you’re paying for a more personalized, flexible experience that covers both land and water in one package.

What’s Not Included

Keep in mind that food, drinks, and attraction tickets are not included**, so plan to budget extra if you want to grab a bite or visit additional sites. The focus here is on the guided experience and cruise, so it’s best suited for those wanting a rundown without the hassle of planning each element separately.

Accessibility and Duration

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, a good length for seeing the key sights without feeling rushed. It’s a moderately paced walk, with some uneven surfaces and steps, so comfortable shoes are a must. The tour starts in the morning and you should check your email the day before for important details, especially for making your cruise boarding smooth.

Group Size and Customization

Limited to 25 guests, the private nature means fewer crowds and more opportunity for interaction. For larger groups, additional guides can be arranged, making it flexible for family outings or small groups of friends.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors who want a comprehensive introduction to Montreal’s Old Town. It’s suited for travelers seeking a relaxed pace, personalized attention, and stunning views. If you appreciate a mix of walking and cruising, combined with insightful storytelling, this tour offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

This Old Montreal Private Walking Tour with Cruise Tickets offers a fantastic way to see the city’s core, blending history, architecture, and scenery in a carefully curated package. The private guide ensures your experience feels tailored, while the cruise provides a memorable perspective on Montreal’s waterfront.

The combination of intimate guiding, scenic views, and flexible pacing makes this experience particularly appealing to those who want a deeper understanding of Montreal beyond its tourist surface. The cost reflects the quality and personalized nature, making it a worthwhile splurge for travelers serious about exploring Montreal authentically.

If you’re after a comprehensive, engaging, and scenic tour that balances culture with relaxation, this experience is a superb choice.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours 30 minutes, including the walking part and the cruise.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the Auberge Alt Hostel on 347 Rue Saint-Paul E.

Is the cruise included in the price?
Yes, the 1.5-hour cruise ticket is pre-booked and included, along with an audio guide in eight languages.

What sites will I see on the tour?
You’ll visit Bonsecours Market, Notre-Dame Basilica, Place d’Armes, Old Saint-Sulpice Seminary, and more. The cruise offers views of Montreal’s skyline and waterfront.

Can I customize this experience?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide will tailor the pace and focus to your interests.

Are food and entrance tickets included?
No, they’re not included. You’ll need to pay separately for food or additional attraction entries.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but comfortable shoes are recommended, and the pace is moderate.

What language options are available?
Guides and audio tours are available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin, Japanese, and Korean.

This private tour of Montreal’s Old Town offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty, all delivered with expert guidance and personal attention—a memorable way to get to know one of Canada’s most charismatic cities.