Montreal isn’t just a city of timeless charm and lively neighborhoods; it’s also a place where full-day tours unlock the city’s best sights and experiences. Whether you’re after a quick overview or an in-depth exploration, Montreal’s diverse tour options deliver everything from cultural landmarks to culinary treats. For example, our favorite is the Full-Day small-group Montreal tour with Pickup and a Local Taste, which combines scenic views, local markets, and neighborhood strolls—ideal for getting a genuine sense of the city while enjoying some famous Montreal bagels. Plus, small groups mean more personalized attention, making this tour a standout.
If you’re craving an escape from the city, the area around Montreal offers fantastic day trips, like the Full Day Trip to Quebec City and Montmorency Falls. It combines natural beauty with historical charm, perfect for those wanting a mix of culture and scenery. For a more relaxed experience, consider the Full-Day Quebec City Tour plus Sightseeing Cruise, which adds a river cruise for a different perspective on Quebec’s UNESCO-listed old town.
Below you’ll find a curated list of the best full-day tours in Montreal, covering city highlights, nearby excursions, and unique experiences.
1. Full-Day small-group Montreal tour with Pickup and a Local Taste
At number 1, this full-day small-group Montreal tour stands out because it balances sightseeing, local flavor, and comfort in a compact format. You start with scenic drives around Downtown Montreal before visiting vibrant neighborhoods like Mile End and Little Italy. The highlight is a visit to Jean-Talon Market, one of North America’s largest farmers markets, where you can sample local produce and Montreal’s famous bagels—an absolute must for food lovers. The tour also includes a stop at Mount Royal Park for sweeping city views, along with a quick walk through Old Montreal to admire Notre-Dame Basilica and historic streets like Place d’Armes.
What makes this tour special? It combines short walking segments with driving, making it accessible and flexible. Reviewers love the guide’s knowledge and the small-group intimacy, noting they get more personal attention and better opportunities to ask questions. For about $169, you receive an immersive day of sightseeing, cultural insights, and delicious food tastings—perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive Montreal experience without rushing.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a friendly, in-depth overview with local eats, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day in Montreal.
2. From Montreal: Quebec City & Montmorency Falls Full Day Trip
Next on our list, the Full Day Trip to Quebec City and Montmorency Falls is perfect for those eager to explore beyond Montreal. This 13-hour tour includes visiting Montmorency Falls, taller than Niagara, and roaming the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour shines because it combines natural wonder with historic sights, featuring a stop at the Montmorency Falls Park with a chance to see the impressive cascade from various viewpoints.
During the day, you’ll also walk through Old Quebec, exploring landmarks like Chateau Frontenac and Place Royale. The tour includes free time for photos and lunch, plus optional visits to attractions like the Ice Hotel or Museum of Civilization depending on the season. The experienced guide makes history come alive, often sharing little-known stories.
At about $71, this tour offers a full, enriching day at a reasonable price, ideal for travelers with a day to spare and a love for scenic beauty and history.
Bottom Line: For a well-rounded day trip with natural and historic highlights, this tour delivers real value and a glimpse into Quebec’s charm.
3. Full-Day Quebec City Tour plus Sightseeing Cruise
Number 3 is the Full-Day Quebec City Tour plus Sightseeing Cruise, which combines walking, sightseeing, and a boat ride. Starting with a visit to the stunning Montmorency Falls, the tour then takes you into Old Quebec for a detailed exploration of historic landmarks like Chateau Frontenac and Petit Champlain district.
What makes this tour stand out? The inclusion of a cruise on the St. Lawrence River offers a refreshing perspective, allowing you to see the city’s skyline and fortifications from the water. The guide provides engaging commentary on Quebec’s history and culture during the day, making the experience both educational and scenic. The tour is well-suited to those who prefer a mix of walking, driving, and cruising.
At $125.33, it offers a lot of value—combining city highlights with a relaxing cruise in one day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in seeing Quebec from land and water, with a good dose of history and scenic views.
4. Montreal: Full-Day Small Group City Tour
This Full-Day Small Group City Tour is perfect for those who want an intimate, detailed introduction to Montreal’s diverse neighborhoods. It covers Old Montreal, local markets, parks, and historic churches. The guide’s commentary brings the city’s architecture and culture to life, and the small group size ensures you can ask questions easily.
A major highlight is the chance to taste local specialties, including Montreal bagels and maple syrup—an easy way to enjoy the city’s culinary traditions. The 7-hour tour is well-paced, with a mix of driving and walking, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Reviewers rate it highly for the personalized experience and deep insights.
For $164, this tour offers a solid, relaxed exploration of Montreal’s main attractions, suitable for travelers who prefer in-depth local knowledge.
Bottom Line: For those who enjoy a personalized tour experience with food and culture, this is a top pick.
5. Full Day Family Bike Rental
Number 5 is the Full Day Family Bike Rental, ideal for active families or solo explorers who prefer self-guided discovery. Montreal’s bike-friendly paths make it easy to explore neighborhoods like Old Montreal, Chinatown, and The Village at your own pace.
The rental includes bikes, helmets, locks, maps, and water bottles—everything you need for a day of cycling fun. Reviews highlight the convenience and the opportunity to see the city from its bike lanes, especially along the waterfront and canals. It’s cost-effective at just over $33 per person, and the freedom to set your own route makes this a flexible choice.
Perfect for families or those who want to shape their day without a fixed schedule. Just remember, you’ll need to plan your route in advance.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want independence and a scenic, flexible way to see Montreal.
6. From Montreal: Full-Day Tour of Quebec City with Cruise
Another strong contender, the Full-Day Tour of Quebec City with Cruise offers a seamless experience combining land and water. It includes a scenic cruise along the St. Lawrence River and visits to Montmorency Falls and Old Quebec. The cruise provides a different vantage point, showcasing Quebec’s historic walls and skyline from the water.
This tour is excellent for those wanting to relax and absorb breathtaking views without too much walking. The guide’s insights help deepen your understanding of Quebec’s proud history. The price point ($122) reflects the value of a full day’s sightseeing with added cruise comfort.
Bottom Line: It’s ideal if you want a relaxed, comprehensive day with scenic cruising and cultural exploration.
7. Montreal: All-Day Bicycle Rental
For independent explorers, the Montreal All-Day Bicycle Rental provides the flexibility to craft your own adventure. With eight hours of bike access, you can cover neighborhoods like Downtown, Chinatown, and The Village at your own pace. The rental includes everything you need for a day of cycling fun.
This option is perfect for confident cyclists who want to dive deep into Montreal’s vibe without the constraints of a guided tour. Reviews note that exploring on two wheels gives a much richer sense of the city’s character than just riding around in a bus.
Bottom Line: Great for self-directed explorers comfortable on a bike and eager to see Montreal on their own terms.
8. From Montreal: Private Quebec Full Day Tour
For travelers seeking a tailored experience, the Private Quebec Full Day Tour offers a personalized day in Quebec City. You’ll be driven by private SUV, allowing for a flexible itinerary and personalized attention from your guide. Highlights include Old Quebec, Plains of Abraham, and scenic city views.
The private setting allows you to customize your stops and pace, making it ideal for travelers who prefer comfort and exclusivity. Reviewing the tour, one traveler noted how the seamless transfer and private guide made the experience unforgettable.
Priced at $323 per person, it reflects a premium but offers a uniquely private, intimate experience that appeals to those celebrating a special occasion or wanting a bespoke adventure.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking exclusivity and personalized service in Quebec’s historic city.
$323 per person
9. Full-Day Montreal City Tour from Ottawa and optional cruise
This Full-Day Montreal City Tour from Ottawa is perfect if you’re basing yourself in Ottawa but want a comprehensive day exploring Montreal. It includes visits to Mount Royal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and Old Montreal, plus a scenic St. Lawrence River cruise.
The guide offers bilingual commentary, enriching your understanding of Quebec’s culture and history. The tour’s structure makes it suitable for those with limited time but high curiosity about Montreal.
At just $71, it’s an excellent value, especially for those interested in a guided, all-in-one day trip from Ottawa.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers looking for a guided, full-day exploration without staying overnight.
$71 per person
10. Sugar Shack Full Day Tour from Montreal
Number 10, the Sugar Shack Full Day Tour, offers a taste of Quebec’s culinary tradition. You’ll visit a traditional cabane à sucre, learn about maple syrup production, and enjoy a hearty Quebecois meal, including maple taffy and pancakes.
The 4-hour tour is perfect if you’re looking for a unique food-focused experience. Reviewers mention the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to see Maple syrup making firsthand. It’s a good value at $140.29 per person.
While it doesn’t cover much city sightseeing, it provides a delicious insight into Quebec’s gastronomic heritage—great for foodies or those interested in local traditions.
Bottom Line: A fun, flavorful detour into Quebec’s sweet side—perfect for food lovers and cultural explorers.
11. Private Full Day Tour from Montreal to Quebec and Montmorency Falls
Finally, the Private Full Day Tour offers a fully customizable experience in a private vehicle. You’ll visit Montreal, then head to Quebec City and Montmorency Falls, with the flexibility to tailor stops and pacing.
This tour is best for those who want privacy, comfort, and the ability to personalize their itinerary. The guide’s insights will make your day more meaningful, and the private transfer removes the stress of group travel.
Pricing at over $2,495 per person, it’s a premium option suited for travelers valuing exclusivity or celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: For a bespoke, private experience exploring Quebec, this tour is hard to beat.
$2,495.08 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour in Montreal
Choosing the right tour depends on your budget, interests, and travel style. For an immersive city experience with local eats, Tour #1 is hard to beat. If natural scenery and historic architecture call your name, consider the Quebec trip with Montmorency Falls. For self-guided exploration, the bike rentals or all-day bicycle give you freedom and flexibility.
Those wishing to indulge in Quebec’s culinary traditions should check out the Sugar Shack Tour, while travelers desiring a private, tailor-made experience should consider the Private Quebec Tour.
Remember, booking early ensures availability, especially for popular small-group or private tours. Think about your fitness level, preferred pace, and whether you want guided insight or independence.
In summary, Montreal offers an impressive range of full-day tours tailored to different interests and travel styles. From comprehensive city explorations and scenic escapes to food adventures and private bespoke trips, there’s something for every type of traveler. We recommend selecting a tour that matches your curiosity and comfort level, and booking early helps secure your spot in these popular experiences. Whichever you choose, you’re in for a memorable day discovering this vibrant city and its surroundings.