The Original Montreal Mural Arts Tour by Spade & Palacio

Montreal’s Street Art Unveiled
Imagine wandering through a city where every alley and boulevard is an open-air gallery. The Original Montreal Mural Arts Tour by Spade & Palacio offers just that—a lively 2-hour walk through some of the most colorful and meaningful murals in Montreal. Led by guides who are clearly passionate about the city’s vibrant street art, this tour covers the Saint-Laurent Boulevard, a historic artery that’s become the city’s premier mural corridor.

For a modest price of $29.66 per person, you’ll visit a mix of neighbourhoods, from the Plateau Mont-Royal to the street that divides Montreal into east and west. The tour highlights both local and international artists, showcasing works ranging from tiny sticker-like wheat pastes to murals towering ten stories high.

What we love most? First, the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, who bring each mural to life with stories about the artists and the social or political messages woven into the art. Second, the variety of murals, from historic pieces to contemporary works and hidden gems that you’d never spot on your own.

A possible consideration? The tour involves roughly 45 minutes in Plateau Mont-Royal and an hour along Saint-Laurent Boulevard, which means a fair amount of walking—something to keep in mind if mobility is a concern.

This tour is ideal for art lovers, culture seekers, and anyone curious about Montreal’s diverse communities. It’s particularly popular with locals, school groups, and corporate teams looking for a meaningful way to explore the city’s creative side.

Key Points

• Focused on Montreal’s vibrant mural scene along Saint-Laurent Boulevard and nearby neighborhoods.
• Guides are passionate and well-informed, sharing insights into the artists and meanings behind the murals.
• A walking experience that allows for close-up views of street art, with plenty of time for questions and photos.
• Limited group size (up to 10 people) ensures a more personalized, engaging experience.
• Includes a recommendations list for further exploration of Montreal’s food, bars, and hidden art spots.
• Affordable price point offers great value considering the depth of insight and scenery.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour kicks off at 3526 Boul. Saint-Laurent, a buzzy area filled with cafes, local shops, and colorful murals. From the moment you meet your guide—likely someone as enthusiastic as Lori’s guide Chris—you’re immediately drawn into Montreal’s street art universe. These guides aren’t just walking encyclopedias; they’re performers, storytellers, and passionate advocates for urban art.

Neighborhood Walks and Murals in Plateau Mont-Royal

The first part takes you into Plateau Mont-Royal, a neighborhood famous for its bohemian vibe and colorful street art. As you stroll through back streets and alleys, your guide points out murals that you might otherwise overlook. Here, you’ll see smaller installations, wheat pastes, and some classic works.

One reviewer gushed, “Our guide, Chris, clearly loves Montreal and its street art. I learned so much.” This highlights how guides can turn a simple walk into an educational journey. Expect to learn about the techniques used, such as stenciling or wheat pastes, and the stories behind the murals—whether they’re tribute pieces, social commentary, or just pure artistic expression.

The Leonard Cohen Mural

Next, you’ll visit the imposing Leonard Cohen mural, a giant tribute to Montreal’s beloved singer-songwriter. The guide will share stories about Cohen’s influence on the city and the artist behind this massive work. With just about 10 minutes here, it’s enough to appreciate the scale and significance of this tribute. Reviewers often comment on how such murals “bring the city’s history and culture to life.”

Saint Laurent Boulevard: The Heart of Montreal’s Murals

The core of the tour is a one-hour walk along Saint-Laurent, a street that has seen waves of immigration and cultural change. This is where Montreal’s street art truly flourishes, with murals reflecting diverse communities and political messages. You might spot works that represent the city’s multicultural identity or pieces that comment on societal issues.

Guides like Mel and Marie excel at framing these murals in their social context, making each piece more than just visual art but a reflection of Montreal’s soul. Reviewers often mention their guides’ enthusiasm and detailed explanations, which add depth to the visual feast.

Hidden Gems and Personal Recommendations

After the structured tour, your guide will hand you a list of personal recommendations—from the best local restaurants and bars to hidden art spots worth discovering on your own. This turns a guided experience into an invitation to continue exploring at your leisure.

Tour Logistics and Practicalities

The tour operates on a mobile ticket, with a moderate amount of walking involved. Most participants find the pace comfortable, but it’s worth noting that you’ll be on your feet for about two hours. The small group (max 10) means you’ll get plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized insights. The meeting point in the lively Boul. Saint-Laurent area is accessible by public transportation, making it easy to join or leave.

Real-World Insights from Reviews

Many reviewers praised guides like Jeff, Pax, and Rod for their knowledge and personable approach. “Rod was excellent,” one said, “his enthusiasm made the tour memorable.” Others loved how the tour uncovered hidden jewels and “fascinating stories” that made them see Montreal’s murals differently.

Some mention that the tour moves quickly, “not enough time to cover every mural,” but that’s part of the reality—Montreal’s street art is vast. The goal isn’t to see everything but to experience the highlights and understand what makes Montreal’s mural scene unique.

The Value of the Tour

Considering the price of less than $30, this tour offers excellent value. For that, you’re getting a guided walk through an outdoor art gallery, filled with stories and insights you’d likely miss exploring on your own. It’s a mix of cultural education and visual pleasure, perfect for those wanting a richer understanding of Montreal’s diverse communities and creative spirit.

If you’re a fan of street art or just curious about urban culture, this tour will deepen your appreciation and make your wanderings more meaningful. Plus, the recommendations provided afterward help extend your exploration beyond the tour, turning a two-hour experience into a stepping stone for further adventures.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour suits art enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious travelers eager to see Montreal through a fresh lens. It’s especially good for those interested in social and political messages embedded in street art, or for anyone who enjoys stories behind visual culture. The small-group setting fosters a relaxed environment for questions and conversation, making it ideal for travelers who prefer more intimate experiences.

It’s also a fantastic choice for families with kids or school groups, as the stories and visuals appeal across ages. If you like to combine sightseeing with learning, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Original Montreal Mural Arts Tour by Spade & Palacio offers an engaging, affordable way to experience Montreal’s street art scene up close. The passionate guides, diverse murals, and local insights turn what could be just a walk into a meaningful cultural adventure. It’s a perfect fit for art lovers, culturally curious travelers, and anyone eager to see Montreal from a different, more colorful perspective.

While the walking is steady and the focus is on murals, that’s part of what makes this tour a practical, immersive exploration. The small-group size ensures personalized attention, and the provided recommendations give you the tools to keep exploring on your own afterward.

If you want to understand a city through its murals, enjoy vibrant neighborhoods, and learn stories behind the art, this tour will leave you inspired—and maybe even a little more observant on your next city walk.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering key murals and neighborhoods along Saint-Laurent Boulevard and nearby areas.

What is the price?
The tour costs about $29.66 per person, offering good value for an in-depth cultural walk.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, most travelers find the moderate walking comfortable. Remember, you’ll be on your feet for around two hours, so consider your mobility needs.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 3526 Boul. Saint-Laurent and finishes at the Park of Portugal (Rue Marie-Anne).

Are tickets flexible?
Yes, you can cancel your booking for free up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making it easy to join.

What do I need to bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The tour is outdoors, so dress according to the weather.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviews highlight guides like Mel, Marie, Pax, and Rod for their enthusiasm and detailed stories.

Can I explore more murals after the tour?
Yes, the guide provides a list of recommendations so you can continue discovering Montreal’s street art independently.

Whether you’re a dedicated street art admirer or a casual traveler seeking a different way to see Montreal, this mural tour offers an authentic, engaging, and affordable slice of the city’s creative pulse.