Private Tour of Montreal with River Cruise + Notre Dame

A private tour of Montreal with a river cruise and Notre Dame visit offers an intimate and flexible way to explore this vibrant Canadian city. For around $1,200, up to six people can enjoy a personalized 5-hour journey led by an expert guide. The experience combines stunning viewpoints, cultural landmarks, and a leisurely boat cruise along the Saint Lawrence River, all in a comfortable luxury vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

What we love most about this tour is the opportunity to skip the crowds and gain detailed insights from your guide, making the city’s history and highlights come alive. The Mont Royal lookout provides breathtaking vistas of Montreal’s skyline, while the Notre Dame Basilica offers awe-inspiring architecture. Plus, the river cruise caps off the day with serene views of the city from the water.

One potential consideration is the tour’s duration—at around 5 hours, it’s a compact but full experience. Travelers with limited mobility or those who prefer a more relaxed pace might want to consider how the timing fits into their plans. Also, since this is a private tour, it’s best suited for those who want a tailored experience rather than a large-group sightseeing bus.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive, personalized introduction to Montreal’s most photogenic and culturally significant sights. If you enjoy guided conversations, personalized itineraries, and a mix of outdoor and indoor attractions, you’ll find this tour delivers excellent value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Customizable private experience led by a knowledgeable guide
• Highlights include Mont Royal, Notre Dame Basilica, Old Montreal, and a Saint Lawrence river cruise
• Skip the lines and crowds, enjoying front-row views and exclusive access
• Luxury transportation in air-conditioned Mercedes Metris van
• Ideal for small groups up to 6 seeking a personalized day
• Flexible itinerary with options to adapt based on interests or weather

An In-Depth Look at the Montreal Private Tour

Why Choose a Private Tour in Montreal?

Traveling in a private vehicle ensures you won’t be stuck in a large crowd or rushed through sights. Your guide, possibly someone like Mufasa or Khaled (according to glowing reviews), brings a wealth of local knowledge in a friendly, conversational manner. It’s the kind of experience that transforms sightseeing from a checklist into a genuine understanding of Montreal’s character.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal

The tour kicks off at Saint Joseph’s Oratory, a monumental Catholic church perched atop Mount Royal. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city below, making this a photographer’s paradise. It’s free to enter, but the real treat is soaking in the view and the peaceful ambiance inside the basilica. Reviewers have described this as a “beautiful experience,” with one noting that their guide helped them appreciate the site’s significance and architecture.

Stop 2: Mont-Royal Lookout

Next, your guide will navigate you up Mont Royal—yes, the hill that gives the city its name. This drive, narrated with insights about Montreal’s layout and history, offers a chance to appreciate the city’s skyline from a high vantage point. The entire drive takes about 45 minutes, with some stops for photos and commentary. Visitors often praise the views, with one reviewer remarking it’s “a must-see for first-timers” who want to appreciate Montreal’s “big, beautiful cityscape” without the hassle of climbing.

Stop 3: Old Montreal

Descending from Mont Royal, you’ll pass by McGill University, the Golden Square Mile, and Chinatown, setting the stage for your visit to Old Montreal. This historic district, with cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings, is a highlight for many travelers. Your guide will provide a narrated drive, pointing out interesting architecture and stories behind the city’s oldest neighborhoods.

Once in Old Montreal, you’ll have about an hour to explore on your own or with the guide. Many reviews mention the charm of this area, especially the Notre Dame Basilica, which is often called the “experience of a lifetime” for its stunning interior and grandeur. The quiet side streets, boutique shops, and cafes offer a charming atmosphere that’s perfect for wandering.

Stop 4: Saint Lawrence River Cruise

The day wraps up with a relaxing boat cruise along the Saint Lawrence River, providing a different perspective of Montreal’s skyline. The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, during which you can enjoy the gentle waters and panoramic views. Reviewers frequently mention how peaceful and scenic the river experience is, with some noting it’s an ideal way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The cruise is narrated, giving insights into Montreal’s relationship with the river and its history.

Transportation & Comfort

The entire tour is conducted in an air-conditioned Mercedes Metris van, a luxurious and comfortable way to travel between sights. The private setting means you can customize or skip certain stops if you prefer, a flexibility that many travelers find enhances their experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Montreal make it convenient and hassle-free.

What Reviews Reveal

Among the 15 reviews, the common praises include “deep knowledge” and “friendly guides”, with reviewers consistently noting that guides like Khaled or Mustafa made the experience more engaging. Many highlight the stunning views on Mont Royal and the Notre Dame Basilica as unforgettable moments.

One reviewer appreciated the ability to customize their experience, including swapping the boat cruise for a Ferris wheel ride, which shows the flexibility of this private tour. Others mentioned the value for money, especially given the all-inclusive admission fees and skip-the-line benefits, which save time and add convenience.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the tour’s duration and pacing—a five-hour window means a fairly packed schedule. If you’re someone who prefers a leisurely stroll or longer pauses at each site, you might find it a bit hurried. Also, weather conditions could influence the boat cruise or outdoor stops, so it’s wise to consider how your plans might adapt.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re visiting Montreal for the first time and want a thorough yet personalized introduction, this tour is perfect. It’s especially well-suited for small groups or families who appreciate expert guides and the comfort of private transportation. It also works well for travelers who want a mix of outdoor sights, cultural landmarks, and relaxing water views—without the hassle of navigating the city on your own.

Final Thoughts

This private Montreal tour combines the city’s most iconic sites with the flexibility and intimacy that many travelers crave. The expert narration, luxury transport, and all-inclusive ticketing offer a seamless way to discover Montreal’s highlights without stress. You’ll enjoy the quiet majesty of Mont Royal, marvel at Notre Dame’s architecture, explore historic Old Montreal, and end with a calming river cruise—each element enriching your understanding of this lively city.

It’s ideal for those who want a curated experience with a guide who genuinely shares Montreal’s story. If you’re after a memorable, personalized day that balances sightseeing with relaxation, you’ll find this tour offers excellent value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Montreal, making it very convenient for travelers staying in the city center.

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views and listen to the narration.

What sights are included in the tour?
You’ll visit Saint Joseph’s Oratory, Mont Royal, Old Montreal, and enjoy the river cruise along the Saint Lawrence.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it’s a private tour accommodating up to 6 people, and the flexible nature makes it good for families who want a personalized experience.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Most bookings are made about 47 days ahead, but it’s best to reserve early to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

What’s the cost per group?
The price is around $1,201.84 for a group of up to six, which, when split, can offer good value considering the private guide, transportation, and all entry fees included.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, reviews indicate some guides are flexible and willing to adapt the itinerary, such as swapping activities or adjusting timing based on your interests.

This private Montreal tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore the city’s highlights in comfort and style. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for a deeper look, it delivers an authentic and memorable experience.