15 Best Montreal Walking Tours to Explore the City

Are you looking for the best walking tours in Montreal? You’ll find them here.

Montreal is one of the most vibrant cities in Canada, with its rich culture, diverse communities and stunning architecture. One of my favourite places, I’ve visited this city many times.

A walking tour will provide you with a good overview of Montreal’s history, attractions and culture all while walking around some of its most famous neighbourhoods. But how do you choose the right tour for you?

To make sure you don’t miss out on any essential sites or experiences, I’m sharing the best Montreal walking tours in Old Montreal, downtown, and across the city.

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1. Old Montreal Private Walking Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (119+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | BOOK NOW

See the best of Old Montreal on an Old Montreal Private Walking Tour.

This 2-hour walking tour of Old Montreal will take you through some of the most iconic sights such as Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, Place d’Armes, and Old Port.

Have a more personalized experience with your own guide as you learn about this historic neighbourhood dating back to 1642. With its leisurely pace, get an overview and orientation of all that makes Old Montreal unique.

Perfect for groups of up to 15, bring your friends and family and get exploring. Private tours cost more, but with its group cost, you can spread the cost out more and have a custom tour.

“HIGHLY recommend this tour! Our tour guide was excellent, very knowledgeable, and kept up with our barrage of questions (we’re all history nerds). She also had a great sense of humor so we had lots of laughs along the way.” – Chad W (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Old Montreal Private Walking Tour

2. Under the Surface of Montreal’s Chinatown: Guided Food Walking Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (20+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4.5 hours | BOOK NOW

Combine Chinese cuisine and a Montreal walking tour together on the Under the Surface of Montreal’s Chinatown: Guided Food Walking Tour.

This 4.5-hour walking tour offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to explore and taste some of the city’s most delicious culinary delights while learning more about their history and culture.

Sample Chinese pastries at a bakery. Nibble on Hong-Hong-style dim sum. Drink tea made with leaves from China. And more.

With only 2 people allowed per tour, this ultra-small group food tour is sure to be memorable.

“We toured Chinatown and got a history of it and surrounding areas- we had fantastic food and tried things that I never would have known about. Our guide was charming and informative – the pace was perfect, and we had frequent breaks so it was not too taxing.” – Shawna M (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Under the Surface of Montreal’s Chinatown: Guided Food Walking Tour

3. Montreal Walking Tasting Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (320+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | BOOK NOW

Explore Little Italy and Mile End with your stomach leading the way on this Montreal Walking Tasting Tour.

This small-group walking tour offers guests a unique opportunity to taste some of Montreal’s must-eat food while exploring its history and culture. Stop at bars, restaurants, bakeries, and delicatessens along the way.

From traditional poutine dishes to sweet treats, there is something for everyone on this delicious walking tour! And if that’s not enough, your guide will provide you will more insight into more places to eat during your trip to Montreal.

So get your hunger ready for 3.5 hours of eating and walking around Montreal.

“A different part of Montreal, great to experience more than the usual “tourist stops”. The food was interesting, with good stories to go along. It is exceedingly unlikely that we would have found the places we were taken to on our own, even with all the online guides. And a treat to go with Simon, who loves the local food and was able to share his love with us. Expensive, yes, but worth it.” – Lance (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Montreal Walking Tasting Tour

4. Beyond the Basilica: a Walking Tour in Montreal

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (268+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | BOOK NOW

Beyond the Basilica: a Walking Tour in Montreal is a great way to see more of the city in less time. Perfect for those looking to walk and taste their way through Montreal.

This 2.5-hour small-group walking tour takes visitors through some of the most beautiful neighbourhoods, starting in Old Montreal and ending in Plateau Mont-Royal.

Step inside the famous Notre Dame Basilica, check out street art, enjoy food tastings and receive recommendations for the rest of your time in Canada’s second-largest city.

With beverages, snacks, and food tasting included, grab your comfiest walking shoes and get ready for a comprehensive tour of Montreal.

“The tour around the areas surrounding the basilica was great! Our guide certainly knew the area and enjoyed sharing the culture of these different neighborhoods with us.” – Marianne M (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Beyond the Basilica a Walking Tour in Montreal

5. Explore Old Montreal – A Small-Group Walking Tour for the Curious

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (297+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | BOOK NOW

See the highlights of Montreal on an Old Montreal Tour – A Small-Group Walking Tour for the Curious.

This 2-hour walking tour provides a comprehensive overview of the highlights of this beautiful city while giving visitors more attention from their passionate guide.

Gain insights into local history, architecture, culture, food and art, as well as recommendations on places to eat, drink, and explore later on.

Rain or shine, get ready to discover all that Old Montreal has to offer.

“The length of this tour and size of the group was perfect, and it was a perfect introduction for first-time visitors to Montreal. We visited in December, and the tour had both outdoor and indoor components so we never got too cold. Our tour guide Elise was so friendly and funny, and also very knowledgeable. She took time to answer everyone’s questions and never made the group feel rushed. We were also given a list of local recommendations at the end of the tour which was great!” – Elizabeth S (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Explore Old Montreal – A Small-Group Walking Tour for the Curious 

6. Montreal: Private Tour with a Local Guide

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 (21+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2-6 hours | BOOK NOW

You call the shots on the customizable Montreal: Private Tour with a Local Guide.

See some of the most iconic landmarks in Montreal, such as Musee des Beaux-Arts de Montreal, Notre Dame Basilica, and more.

The tour can last anywhere from 2-6 hours depending on how much time you have available and what sights you want to see. Old Montreal, Downtown, Little Italy, Mile End, and more are all options. It’s limited only to your group so that you get a personalized experience.

“This was the first tour of this type I’ve ever taken part in and we really enjoyed the personalized and customized nature of it. It’s really one of the first tours we’ve taken in over two decades of traveling in which we felt we were in control of the program and itinerary. This made the experience a lot more fulfilling.” – Ryan S (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Montreal: Private Tour with a Local Guide

7. Discover the RESO: Montreal’s Underground City – A Walking Tour for the Curious

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (20+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | BOOK NOW 

Explore the maze of tunnels and passageways beneath Montreal’s streets on the Discover the RESO: Montreal’s Underground City – A Walking Tour for the Curious.

Living through Montreal’s chilly winters, locals have found creative ways of getting around the cold, including the RESO which is 32km long.

This 2-hour walking tour takes visitors on an exploration of the city’s underground pedestrian network.

It’s a unique tour, ideal for those who want to learn more about Montreal’s fascinating history and get a glimpse into its secret passageways.

“Martin was a great tour guide with a thorough knowledge of the history and orientation of the underground system and the general Montreal geography. I would recommend new visitors to the city to try this tour which will help your orientation of the city and discover places you would otherwise be unaware of and miss altogether.” – Ricky T (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Discover the RESO: Montreal’s Underground City – A Walking Tour for the Curious

8. Old Montreal Walking Tour Off the Beaten Path

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (142+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | BOOK NOW

Wonder through the best preserved Old Town in Canada, outside of Quebec City, on the Old Montreal Walking Tour Off the Beaten Path.

This 2.5-hour small-group walking tour of Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal) is ideal for first-time visitors, as well as those who have visited Montreal before. It’s one of the best activities in summer when the weather is warm and sunny.

Stops are catered to the interests of the group. Choose to explore cobblestone streets, 18th-century architecture, and quaint cafes while learning interesting historical facts about this beautiful part of Canada.

Available year-round, make sure you dress for the weather.

“Our guide was very friendly and made the tour very enjoyable. Provided more than enough information about old Montreal to make us want to come back in the summer to further explore the area.” – Clint P (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Old Montreal Walking Tour Off the Beaten Path

9. The Original Montreal Mural Arts Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (194+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | BOOK NOW

Explore the vibrant street art scene of Montreal on The Original Montreal Mural Arts Tour.

This 2-hour walking tour takes visitors along St.-Laurent Boulevard, which has become an open-air gallery with over 100 works of art. Discover cultural and political murals created by local and international artists, as well as graffiti and installations from one of the largest mural festivals in Canada.

With the tour size limited, you will get an up-close look at the amazing artwork that lines this iconic avenue.

Every time I visit Montreal, I head to St. Laurent Boulevard to see what new art pieces have emerged. I love touring this artsy area.

“This is the OG mural arts tour. Lots of great info about the local street art scene. Highly recommend. Would love to explore more next time I’m in Montreal, but this is a great introduction.” – Dianne Y (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK The Original Montreal Mural Arts Tour

10. Old Montreal Walking Tour 

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (110+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | BOOK NOW

See the best sights and attractions of the city on the Old Montreal Walking Tour.

This 2-hour small-group walking tour of Montreal will take you through the most famous landmarks and less-visited gems. All while providing an insight into the history and culture of this beautiful metropolis.

Highlights include Notre Dame, Place Jacques Cartier, The Chateau Ramezay Museum, and more. Plus, get recommendations from your guide on where else to visit during your stay in Montreal.

“I had only just arrived in Montreal and this was a great way to get my bearings and learn some history. It was a two hour tour and we walked the whole time. It was excellent value for money. Our guide Clara, was very friendly and answered all the questions asked of her.” – Kate R (see more reviews) 

➜ BOOK Old Montreal Walking Tour

11. History Walking Tour of Old Montreal

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 (1344+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | BOOK NOW

Step into the past on the History Walking Tour of Old Montreal.

This guided walking tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history, heritage, architecture and culture dating back to New France.

See famous sites such as Notre-Dame Basilica, Place Jacques-Cartier, Bonsecours Market and more while learning about their historical significance.

Choose between three options: East Old Montreal, West Old Montreal, or both. This small group tour is great even if it’s not your first time in Montreal.

“Joanne did a wonderful job of setting the historical background for our walking tour of the English West side of Old Montréal. She was – organized, engaging, and funny. I was impressed with how she managed the different members of our tour group. As a professional tour guide myself, I am able to commend Joanne as a top city guide. Well done!” – Manuel M (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK History Walking Tour of Old Montreal

12. Haunted Griffintown Ghost Walking Tour in Montréal

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (34+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | BOOK NOW

See the spooky side of Montreal on the Haunted Griffintown Ghost Walking Tour in Montreal.

This 1.5-hour nighttime walking tour is perfect for history lovers and those who love a good ghost story.

From haunted buildings to mysterious ruins, this walking tour will give you an in-depth look at the Griffintown neighbourhood. Join your guide as they lead you through this fascinating area while providing commentary on the Industrial Revolution, the Famine of 1847, and other historical events.

“I went on the Griffintown tour right before Hallowe’en. Our host was informative and entertaining, and the stories told on the tour were so fascinating that I continued reading about them when I went home later. This tour went from 8:30 pm to 10:00 pm and went through sections of town that were not very busy or commercial, so the atmosphere was perfect for retellings of ghost sightings. I would certainly recommend this tour, especially to history buffs!” – Stef, TripAdvisor (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Haunted Griffintown Ghost Walking Tour in Montréal

13. Old Montreal Ghost Walking Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 (303+ reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | BOOK NOW

Hear some of the best ghost stories in Old Town on the Old Montreal Ghost Walking Tour.

This 1.5-hour walking tour takes visitors along the oldest and most haunted streets of Old Montreal, revealing spooky stories about its past.

From tales of criminals and witchcraft to grim events that haunt the city, this walking tour is sure to provide a unique experience.

“Our ghost tour was great! Our ghostly guide was amazing. She was well rehearsed, well informed and hilarious. We had so much fun. Would definitely recommend this tour.” – Bonnie B (see more reviews)

➜ BOOK Old Montreal Ghost Walking Tour 

14. Montreal: Small Group Downtown Walking Tour

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | BOOK NOW

Discover the unique charm of Downtown Montreal on the Montreal: Small Group Downtown Walking Tour.

This 2-hour walking tour will take you through historical sites, monuments, parks, churches and more in the heart of this amazing city.

Your passionate local guide will keep you entertained with history, secrets, hidden gems and fun facts as you see some of the best sights in Downtown Montreal.

➜ BOOK Montreal: Small Group Downtown Walking Tour

15. Montreal: Little Italy and Jean-Talon Market Walking Tour 

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | BOOK NOW

Get off the beaten path on the Montreal: Little Italy and Jean-Talon Market Walking Tour.

This 2-hour small-group walking tour offers an opportunity to explore one of Montreal’s best neighbourhoods. Walk along the charming streets of Little Italy, learn about its local history and culture, and visit some of its famous institutions.

Stroll through one of North America’s biggest open-air markets –Jean Talon Farmers Market. Where you can sample fresh products from local vendors, including baked goods, cheeses, meats, and local Quebec products.

If you like visiting markets as I do, you will like this one. I loved eating my way through Jean-Talon Market.

➜ BOOK Montreal: Little Italy and Jean-Talon Market Walking Tour

FAQs about Montreal Walking Tours

Final Thoughts: Best Walking Tours in Montreal

Montreal walking tours are a great way to explore the city’s rich history, heritage, architecture and culture. Whether you’re looking for an Old Montreal walking tour, a ghost walk, or a walking food tour, Montreal has something for everyone.

The best walking tour in Montreal is the one with the smallest group size and most customizable – Old Montreal Private Walking Tour.

For those who love ghost stories and history alike – take a Haunted Griffintown Ghost Walking Tour in Montreal.

Foodies can indulge in French Canadian cuisine on the Montreal Walking Tasting Tour.

No matter which walking tour you pick, it will be sure to provide unforgettable memories that will last long after your trip to Montreal.

And if you are going to Quebec City also, don’t forget to take a walking tour of Old Quebec.

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