Montreal: Small Group Tour with River Cruise and Notre Dame

This 6-hour adventure in Montreal offers a wonderful taste of one of Canada’s most vibrant cities. For just $158 per person, you’ll explore highlights like Mont Royal, Notre Dame Basilica, St Joseph’s Oratory, and enjoy a scenic cruise along the St. Lawrence River. Led by friendly guides in a small group of no more than six, this tour combines driving, sightseeing, and a boat ride—perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see the essentials.

Two things we really like about this experience are the personalized attention you get from small-group touring and the combination of land and water views, which provide a more complete picture of Montreal’s charm. The guide’s local knowledge and commentary make the history and culture come alive, making the experience both fun and educational.

A possible consideration is that the boat cruise is weather-dependent and only available in summer months. Off-season, the cruise is replaced with a visit to La Grande Roue, which still offers great city views but might not provide the same relaxing river experience.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing in a comfortable, intimate setting. If you’re short on time but want to hit the city’s most iconic spots with expert commentary, this tour could be an excellent choice—especially for those who appreciate a relaxed pace with the chance to take photos at multiple viewpoints.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Small group size (max 6) means more attention from guides and a more relaxed pace.
Comprehensive Sightseeing: Covering major sights like Mont Royal, Notre Dame Basilica, and St Joseph’s Oratory in just 6 hours.
Scenic Views: Panoramic vistas from Mont Royal and the Port of Montreal Tower highlight the city’s landscape.
Cultural Highlights: Rich architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks tell Montreal’s story.
Seasonal Variation: The river cruise is seasonal, replaced in winter by La Grande Roue.
Expert Guides: Guides like Bill and Mustafa receive praise for their knowledge, making the tour engaging and informative.

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A Deep Dive into the Montreal Small Group Tour

The Itinerary: A Balance of Landmarks and Leisure

This tour strikes a nice balance between driving and walking, allowing you to see Montreal’s highlights without feeling rushed. The journey begins with a pickup from your downtown hotel, in a comfortable air-conditioned van, so you start the day in style. The guide then narrates as you drive from your hotel toward Mont Royal, the city’s iconic hilltop park.

Mont Royal is a must-see. We loved the way the guide pointed out key neighborhoods like the Golden Square Mile, known for its Victorian architecture, and the Neiges Cemetery, Canada’s largest. Once at the top, the Mont Royal Lookout provides a sweeping view of Montreal’s skyline, the Saint Lawrence River, and the surrounding mountains—a perfect photo opportunity.

The drive back down takes you past McGill University, downtown Montreal, and Chinatown, giving you a taste of the city’s diverse neighborhoods. The guide’s commentary adds context, explaining how these areas shaped the city we see today.

Next, your exploration takes you into Old Montreal, where cobblestone streets and historic buildings evoke a European feel. The Notre Dame Basilica is a highlight, with its stunning Gothic Revival architecture. Many reviews mention how beautiful and photogenic this church is, making it an essential stop.

The Cultural Touchpoints and Photo Opportunities

We particularly enjoyed the stops at Notre Dame Basilica and St Joseph’s Oratory. The basilica, with its intricate stained glass and ornate interior, is both awe-inspiring and a reminder of Montreal’s religious heritage. St Joseph’s Oratory, perched on Mount Royal, is a spiritual and scenic highlight, offering panoramic views and impressive architecture.

The tour’s small size means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. As one reviewer put it, “Bill was an amazing guide. We saw so much of the city in 4-5 hours,” which highlights how efficient and enjoyable the experience can be.

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The River Cruise: A Relaxing Finale

The boat cruise along the St. Lawrence River is often praised as the best part of the tour. During the summer months, it offers a laid-back way to see the city from a different perspective, with commentary that brings Montreal’s history and neighborhoods to life. Travelers have noted the great views of Montreal’s skyline and the river, making it a fitting end to the tour.

In the off-season, the cruise is replaced with La Grande Roue, a giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic city views from a different vantage point—still enjoyable, but the river cruise offers a more immersive experience of the city’s waterside charm.

Comfort, Convenience, and Value

Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Montreal, admission to Notre Dame Basilica (when available), and the cruise or La Grande Roue. Transportation in an air-conditioned van keeps the ride comfortable, especially on hot days.

The small group format enhances the experience—you’re not lost in a crowd, and the guides can answer questions and tailor the commentary. Many reviews mention how guides like Bill and Mustafa make the experience personal and informative.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One said, “Mustafa did a great job of maximizing everyone’s experience,” while another appreciated Bill’s personal touch, noting he was “very knowledgeable and made the tour very interesting.”

The value for money is clear, considering all included attractions, the personalized attention, and the convenience of hotel pickup. Several reviews mention how this tour provided a great overview that helped them plan their remaining days in Montreal.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Montreal small group tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to the city’s major sites in a manageable timeframe. If you enjoy guided experiences with informative commentary and want to see both urban and scenic highlights, this tour packs a lot into just six hours. Its small group size makes it perfect for travelers who prefer a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere.

Travelers who appreciate stunning viewpoints, like Mont Royal and the Port Tower, will find this tour rewarding. If your goal is to get a well-rounded overview without the hassle of planning multiple activities, this experience offers excellent value. However, keep in mind the seasonality of the river cruise—off-season, it’s replaced with La Grande Roue, which still provides beautiful city views.

This tour balances informative storytelling, breathtaking vistas, and easy logistics—a smart choice for those who want a stress-free, yet immersive** introduction to Montreal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for most age groups, especially since it’s a small, relaxed group.

How long is the boat cruise?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it’s part of the 6-hour overall experience. In summer, it’s a relaxing way to end the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and weather-appropriate clothing depending on the season.

Is the boat cruise weather-dependent?
Yes, the cruise operates in the summer months; if the weather isn’t suitable, it’s replaced with La Grande Roue.

Are hotel pickups available outside downtown Montreal?
No, pickups are only in the downtown area. Some hotels may be difficult to access, so check with the operator if you’re unsure.

What makes this tour different from a hop-on-hop-off bus?
This is a fully guided, small-group experience with personalized commentary, making it more intimate and informative than a bus tour.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservations can be flexible with the “reserve now & pay later” option.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify wheelchair accessibility, so it’s best to inquire directly with the provider if needed.

This tour offers a well-rounded, friendly introduction to Montreal, blending scenic vistas, historic sites, and cultural insights. Whether you’re visiting for a quick getaway or want to get your bearings early in your trip, it provides a worthwhile and enjoyable way to experience Montreal’s highlights in just half a day.

You can check availability for your dates here: