Montreal stands out among Canadian cities for its unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy. The city’s rich neighborhoods, vibrant cultural scene, and innovative underground networks make it perfect for exploring through guided tours. Whether you’re interested in historic architecture, local food, or hidden tunnels, Montreal offers something for every traveler. We particularly like the Montreal Underground City + Downtown Tour for its insider stories and easy navigation through the city’s subterranean passages. With so many options, you can customize your experience to match your interests and pace.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of tours: full-day excursions to Quebec City, bike rides through neighborhoods, ghost walks, and explorations of Montreal’s underground networks. For example, the From Montreal: Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip offers a comprehensive day outside the city, while the 3-Hour Montreal City Bike Tour lets you see highlights at a relaxed pace. For those curious about the city’s mysterious side, the Old Montreal Ghost Walk combines history with a fun spooky twist. Finally, the Montreal Underground City + Downtown Tour is perfect for escaping bad weather or for a quick, insightful walk.
1. From Montreal: Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip
At number 1, this full-day guided bus trip offers a seamless way to visit Quebec City, one of North America’s most charming historic towns, plus the spectacular Montmorency Falls, which are 1.5 times taller than Niagara. The tour includes comfortable transportation, so you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads. Your guide shares stories about Old Quebec’s narrow cobblestone streets, steep hills, and iconic architecture, making it much more engaging than wandering solo. The highlight for many is the Montmorency Falls, where you can admire the view or cross the suspension bridge. With a 4.5/5 rating from over 2,500 reviews and a modest $97 price, it offers great value for a comprehensive day. Perfect if you want a taste of Quebec’s history and natural beauty without the hassle of driving. Bottom line: A reliable, relaxed way to experience Quebec’s highlights in one day.
2. 3 Hour Montreal City Bike Tour with Wine or Beer (AM & PM)
Number 2 on our list is a fun, active way to explore Montreal on a 3-hour guided bike tour. Costing around $67.36, it includes helmet, bottled water, and a choice between the City Tour or the Vista Architecture Tour, each showcasing different parts of the city. The ride covers 14 to 20 kilometers and offers a relaxed pace suitable for most fitness levels. Some guests love that they get to see top sites like Mount Royal Park, Old Port, and Latin Quarter, while others appreciate the post-tour bike rental that lets them keep exploring. Reviewers praise guide Pasquale’s knowledge and friendliness, making it an engaging experience for families and solo travelers alike. If you prefer an active day with a social twist, this tour hits the mark. Bottom line: A lively, well-reviewed way to see Montreal’s neighborhoods and architecture.
3. Old Montreal: Traditional Ghost Walk of the Haunted City
For a taste of the spooky, the Ghost Walk of Old Montreal ranks third. This 1.5-hour tour costs just $24 and invites you to explore Old Montreal’s haunted streets, where legends of spirits and unexplained phenomena abound. It’s a playful way to combine history and mystery, making it great for families or friends looking for a different perspective on the city’s past. The guide shares eerie stories linked to actual sights, adding a layer of fun to your visit. With a 4.6/5 rating from nearly 700 reviews, it’s clearly popular. The tour is perfect if you want a lighthearted, spooky evening and to hear tales that aren’t in the guidebooks. Bottom line: A fun, family-friendly way to see Montreal through a different lens.
4. From Montreal: Quebec City & Montmorency Falls Full Day Trip
Next up is a full-day tour that includes a visit to Quebec City, Montmorency Falls, and other highlights. For about $71, this 13-hour experience is a great way to learn about Quebec’s historic neighborhoods and natural wonders. The tour hits Old Quebec, the Château Frontenac, and the Ice Hotel if visiting between December and March, offering a flexible itinerary. Tourists love the professional local guide and the chance to stroll freely in Old Quebec after the guided portion. The inclusion of Montmorency Falls, at 275 feet high, makes this trip special. With a solid 4.6/5 rating from 670 reviews, it’s praised for being well-organized and comprehensive. Bottom line: A great option for travelers with a full day and a curiosity for Quebec’s scenic and historic sites.
5. Full-Day Quebec City Tour plus Sightseeing Cruise
Number 5 combines city sightseeing with a cruise on the St. Lawrence River. This 13-hour tour costs around $125 and is ideal for those who want both land and water views. It features visits to Old Quebec, including landmarks like Place Royale and the Château Frontenac, plus a cruise passing by the Château Frontenac and Île d’Orléans. The boat cruise offers breathtaking perspectives of the city’s famous landmarks. The tour is especially appealing for those wanting a balanced experience—walking through historic streets then relaxing on the water. Reviewers call it a “great way” to see Quebec City in one day. The cruise runs from May to October, making it best for summer visitors. Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a complete Quebec City experience with scenic water views.
6. The MTL Detours Montreal Underground City + Downtown Tour
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 203 reviews, this 2-hour tour focuses on Montreal’s famous RESO underground network. The tour is a smart choice for those who want to escape bad weather or see the city’s hidden underground shops, art, and transit hubs. The guide points out artistic hotspots and architectural features, making it both informative and visually interesting. It’s suitable for all ages, especially if you enjoy urban exploration without the fatigue of walking long distances. Many reviews mention how this tour helps travelers navigate the city more confidently afterward. For just $34.86, it’s a practical and engaging way to uncover Montreal’s subterranean secret. Bottom line: A must-do for anyone curious about Montreal’s underground world.
7. Montreal: Guided Bike Tour of City, Old Port & Plateau
A 3-hour guided bike tour, rated 4.8/5, is perfect for travelers wanting a quick but comprehensive look at Montreal. Costing $65, it covers city highlights, the Old Port, and the Plateau neighborhood. The bicycle ride includes a sample food tasting and insights into Montreal’s history and architecture. Many reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and friendly approach, and the option to upgrade to an electric bike appeals to those worried about hills or heat. This tour is especially suited for active travelers who want a flexible, efficient way to see a lot in a short time. Bottom line: A lively, informative experience for those who like cycling and local stories.
8. Montreal: RESO Underground City and Downtown Walking Tour
At $30 for two hours, this tour offers a deep dive into Montreal’s underground and urban core. Led by a licensed guide, it explores the best parts of RESO and downtown landmarks, with a small group size ensuring a personal experience. The guide shares local stories, art, and tips, making it a great introduction for first-time visitors. The tour also includes recommendations for local food and culture, helping you navigate Montreal more confidently afterward. Many reviewers appreciate the guide’s local knowledge and the personalized approach. It’s an accessible option for travelers wanting insider tips and a short, impactful tour. Bottom line: An excellent choice for a quick, insider look at Montreal’s vibrant downtown and underground.
9. Montreal: Discover Reso – The Underground City
For just $29, this 2-hour tour introduces you to Montreal’s largest underground network. The guide focuses on architecture, art, and stories, sharing inside knowledge about the tunnels, boutiques, and transit hubs. It’s perfect for bad weather days or those wanting a fast overview of RESO’s scope. Reviewers highlight how this tour helps them navigate the underground maze confidently afterward. It’s a practical, engaging way to experience the city’s climate-controlled indoor spaces.
How to Choose the Right Montreal City Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For example, if you want a full-day immersion, the Full-Day Quebec City Tour provides an excellent balance of history, scenery, and ease. If you’re short on time but want to see Montreal’s neighborhoods, the 3-hour bike tour is perfect. For weather concerns or urban curiosity, the Underground City Tours and Discover Reso offer quick, insider insights. Booking early, especially for popular tours or summer months, ensures you secure your preferred times and avoid last-minute disappointments.
Final Thoughts
Montreal’s diverse range of city tours makes it easy to tailor your visit. For history lovers and scenic explorers, the Quebec trips stand out. Active travelers will appreciate the bike tours, while those interested in urban secrets will find the underground explorations fascinating. If you’re traveling with family or a group, private tours like the Montreal Downtown and Underground City walk can personalize your experience.
No matter your style, these tours give you a practical way to maximize your time, see key sights, and learn local stories. To make the most of your trip, consider booking your tours in advance, especially for popular dates. With so many great options, Montreal is ready to surprise you—just pick what suits your interests and enjoy your adventure.
Happy exploring!