Full-Day Montreal City Tour from Ottawa and optional city cruise

Introduction: Is a Day Trip to Montreal Worth It?

If you’re looking for a way to see Montreal without spending days in the city, this full-day guided tour from Ottawa might just be your answer. Designed for those with limited time but a curiosity to explore, it packs in some of Montreal’s most notable sights into roughly 10 to 11 hours.

What we love about this tour is how it combines different perspectives — a scenic lookout atop Mount Royal, the grandeur of Saint Joseph’s Oratory, the historic charm of Old Montreal, and a relaxing cruise on the St. Lawrence River. Plus, the group size feels manageable, and the price seems reasonable considering the full itinerary.

One possible drawback? The day can get quite packed, especially with the cruise included, which leaves little time for spontaneous wandering or deep exploration at each stop. But overall, this tour suits travelers wanting a rundown rather than a deep dive into any one spot. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule eager to tick off Montreal’s highlights.

Key Points

• Efficiently packed with key sights, making it ideal for time-conscious travelers
• Knowledgeable guides who provide detailed, understandable explanations about Montreal’s culture and history
• Scenic and diverse experiences, from viewpoints to historic neighborhoods and river cruises
• Value for money considering transportation, guided commentary, and cruise included in one price
• Limited exploration time at each stop, best suited for overview visits rather than deep exploration
• Comfortable transportation on an air-conditioned bus with hotel pickup options within Ottawa

A Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Mount Royal Lookout

The tour kicks off early at 7:30 am, with pickup available within Ottawa. We start at Mount Royal, the hill that gave Montreal its name. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of downtown Montreal and the surrounding parkland. It’s a peaceful way to begin, soaking in the city’s layout while the guide shares some background on Montreal’s origins. This overlook is a perfect introduction that sets the tone for the day.

Traveling to the next stop, you’ll appreciate the convenience of the air-conditioned bus that ensures comfort on your approximately 2-hour drive to Montreal. The small group size and professional guide make the journey more engaging, providing insights about the region and what’s ahead.

Saint Joseph’s Oratory: Canada’s Largest Church

Next, the tour visits Saint Joseph’s Oratory, an awe-inspiring National Historic Site. This basilica is not just a place of worship but also a remarkable piece of architecture. Its massive dome is one of the largest in the world, and the site’s significance to Montrealers and Canadians alike makes it worth the visit.

While the admission isn’t included, your guide will explain the importance of the site, and you’ll have about 30 minutes to explore. Some travelers, like one reviewer, appreciated the detailed explanations from their guide, describing her as very knowledgeable and easy to understand. It’s a quieter, contemplative stop that offers both spiritual and architectural marvels.

The Olympic Stadium and Tower: Montreal’s 1976 Legacy

From the Oratory, the tour takes a short drive to the Olympic Stadium, built for the 1976 Summer Olympics. Nicknamed “The Big O,” this site is a fascinating remnant of Montreal’s modern history. The Montreal Tower, standing next to the stadium, is the tallest inclined tower in the world, and offers panoramic views of the city below.

Although the tour description doesn’t specify entry fees for the stadium, the exterior views alone are impressive. This stop provides context on Montreal’s Olympic past, which is often a conversation starter. Some reviews mention the tour feels quite packed, and when the cruise is included, there’s a feeling of being rushed, especially for those wanting to spend more time exploring.

Old Montreal: A Step Back in Time

The heart of the tour is the guided walk through Old Montreal, lasting about four hours. This neighborhood is a treasure trove of cobbled streets, historic buildings, and vibrant cafes. Founded in 1642, it’s where French settlers first established what would become a bustling metropolis.

Your guide will point out highlights and stories, but be aware that the included time doesn’t allow for deep wandering; instead, it’s a curated overview. The Notre-Dame Basilica is the highlight here, renowned for its stunning interior with gold leaf motifs and vibrant stained glass. While admission isn’t included, many find it worth the small extra fee to step inside and admire its beauty.

One traveler remarked on the guide’s detailed explanations, mentioning her as very knowledgeable, which enriched the experience. For many, Old Montreal is the most memorable part, with its blend of history, architecture, and lively atmosphere.

The St. Lawrence River Cruise: A Different Perspective

The cruise, included in the warmer months, is a real highlight. Departing from the Old Port, it takes you across the river towards the Boucherville Islands. This 1.5-hour trip offers a fresh perspective on Montreal’s skyline, shoreline, and natural surroundings.

Travelers report that the cruise is relaxing, and it offers some lovely photo opportunities. It’s a nice break from walking and a chance to see the city from a different angle. However, some reviews mention that with the cruise and other stops combined, the day can feel quite busy, leaving little room for some spontaneous exploration or leisure time.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up back at the original meeting point in Ottawa, typically around 6:30 pm to 7 pm, depending on traffic and timing. The trip’s logistics are smooth, with hotel pickups within a 5 km radius included, easing the overall experience.

What Travelers Say

Overall, reviews lean toward positive, especially praising the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized itinerary. One reviewer appreciated the driver, Frank, for his punctuality, and the guide, Yin, for her detailed explanations, making the day more engaging.

Some travelers mentioned that the busy schedule, particularly with the cruise included, left little time for exploring each site deeply. Still, many noted that the tour offered excellent value, covering a lot of ground in a single day, which is perfect for first-timers or those on a tight schedule.

Transportation, Pricing, and Value

The air-conditioned bus is a big plus, especially for the long drive between Ottawa and Montreal. The group size is limited to 50, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. The price of $73.49 per person includes the cruise, entry fees for the cruise itself, taxes, and a professional guide.

While the cost might seem modest for a full day of sightseeing, it’s important to remember that some attractions like the Notre-Dame Basilica are not included, which could add to the overall expense. Still, considering guided commentary, transportation, and a river cruise, the overall value is quite high.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors to Montreal who want a quick, rundown of the city’s highlights. It’s also ideal for those who prefer guided experiences over independent exploration, and for travelers wanting to see both historic and modern sides of Montreal in one day.

If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and want to avoid the hassle of planning multiple activities, this tour offers a convenient and informative solution. It’s less suited for travelers seeking in-depth exploration at each site or those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers eager to get a broad sense of Montreal’s sights without dedicating several days, this full-day tour offers a balanced mix of history, architecture, scenic views, and cruising, all guided by knowledgeable locals. It’s a reliable way to see the city’s top attractions with ease, especially if you’re short on time or want a structured day.

The group size and professional guides add a layer of comfort and insight, making the experience more engaging. The inclusion of a river cruise enhances the visit, providing a perspective you wouldn’t get from land alone. The price, considering all these elements, offers good value, though be prepared for a busy day with limited free time at each stop.

This tour is best for curious newcomers who want a well-rounded taste of Montreal in one convenient package. If you’re after a deeper dive or a more relaxed pace, you might want to explore other options, but for a practical overview, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, complimentary pickup and return are offered from Ottawa hotels within 5 km of the meeting point.

What is the starting time?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, so be prepared for an early start.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect to be out for about 10 to 11 hours, ending back in Ottawa around early evening.

Are the attractions’ entrance fees included?
Only the cruise fee is included; other sites like Saint Joseph’s Oratory and Notre-Dame Basilica are not, so you might need to pay extra if you wish to go inside.

Is the cruise available year-round?
The cruise is scheduled during the warmer months, and if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How large are the groups?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers, which allows for a more personal experience.

Can I customize this tour or extend my stay?
Since it’s a guided day trip, customization isn’t part of the package, but you’re free to explore further on your own after the tour ends.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, and don’t forget your camera for those scenic views and historic sites.

This full-day Montreal tour from Ottawa offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience the city’s highlights without the hassle of planning. Whether it’s your first visit or a quick revisit, it offers a balanced, guided journey into Montreal’s vibrant streets and waterways.