This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Planning a trip to Montreal? You hit the jackpot!
We’ve explored this vibrant, culture-packed city on foot, bike, scooter, boat—even helicopter—and we’re here to help you make the most of your time. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Montreal always has a new angle, flavor, or hidden street to surprise you. From historic cobblestone neighborhoods and graffiti-lined back alleys to world-class bagels and adrenaline-pumping river rides, this city is anything but boring.
After multiple trips (and way too many bagels to count), we’ve rounded up the absolute best things to do in Montreal, including the can’t-miss tours and experiences that made our visits unforgettable. Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Montreal was this Old Montreal walking tour. We saw all of the area’s highlights and learned about Montreal’s unique history, architecture, and culture from our local guide!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Montreal
- 1. Taste your way around Montreal
- 2. Learn about Old Montreal on a walking tour
- 3. Take a day trip to Quebec City
- 4. See Montreal’s best sights on a bicycle tour
- 5. Take a scenic private helicopter flight over the city
- 6. Visit the Basilica, underground Montreal, Chinatown, and more with a local guide
- 7. Go jet boating on the Lachine Rapids
- 8. Cruise around Montreal on a scooter
- 9. Discover Montreal’s murals and street art
- 10. Get your adrenaline pumping on a whitewater rafting excursion
- Where to Stay in Montreal, Quebec
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Montreal
1. Taste your way around Montreal
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 11 am to 4 pm
- Highlights: Sample local and European-inspired dishes on a walking food tour through Montreal’s Mile End district or Jean Talon Market (depending on option selected)
- Inclusions: Local guide, all tastings, small group or private tour (depending on option selected)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Montreal’s food scene is legendary, but finding the good stuff on your own can be hit or miss. That’s why booking this walking food tour was a total game-changer. With a local guide leading the way, eating turned into exploring with stories, context, and stops we’d never have discovered ourselves.
We chose the Mile End route, but there’s also a fantastic option that explores the Jean Talon Market and Little Italy—perfect if you’re into fresh produce, local cheeses, and old-school delis.
On our tour, our guide, Dominique, made it feel like we were exploring the city with a friend who just happens to know all the best local spots. From flaky Alsatian tarts to hand-rolled Montreal-style bagels still warm from the oven, every bite had a story and a reason it made the cut.
The tour easily moves through Mile End’s colorful streets and stops for Italian coffee, gnocchi, poutine, sweet brioche, and a decadent hand-piped cannoli. There’s even a “secret dish” saved for the end (no spoilers—but it was delicious). We left absolutely stuffed and full of local food knowledge we wouldn’t have picked up on our own.
Next time, we’ve got our eyes on the Jean Talon Market version. That one dives into one of Montreal’s oldest public markets, with toasty breads, hand-carved meats, creamy local cheeses, and ripe seasonal produce. It also includes a stroll through Little Italy!
Whichever one you choose, don’t wing your way through Montreal’s food scene—this small-group tour does it better. Just come hungry!
Taste your way through Montreal and reserve this food tour here!
2. Learn about Old Montreal on a walking tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 10 am to 4:30 pm
- Highlights: Learn about Old Montreal’s history, architecture, culture, food, and art on a walking tour, get insider tips on where to eat, drink, and explore
- Inclusions: Guide, small-group tour, local recommendations, bonus tasty treat, unique parting gift
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Old Montreal is full of charm, but without context, it can seem like a maze of old stone buildings and winding cobblestone streets. This small-group tour turned it into a living, breathing story full of surprising history, hidden details, and local personality.
Our guide, Martin, was everything you want in a local expert. He was sharp, hilarious, and clearly proud of the city. From Montreal’s oldest street to the grandeur of City Hall and the gothic spires of Notre-Dame Basilica, he filled every stop with stories we’d never have known just reading plaques.
One of our favorite stops was Place Jacques-Cartier, a lively square where street performers and terrace cafés buzzed with energy. Martin painted a vivid picture of how it’s evolved over the centuries, from a bustling market to one of the city’s most iconic gathering spots.
This isn’t one of those bloated group tours where you’re straining to hear. It’s capped at 10 people, which meant we could ask questions, linger a little longer, and actually take it all in. The mix of history, architecture, and pop culture made it feel surprisingly dynamic, and we even walked away with a little treat and some great local recommendations.
Of all the tours we did in Montreal, this one stuck with us the most. Check out the five-star reviews here to see why travelers keep calling this their favorite, too!
Book this small-group tour here and kick off your Montreal visit the right way!
3. Take a day trip to Quebec City
- Duration: 13 hours
- Time: 7 am
- Highlights: Explore Old Quebec, cruise on the St. Lawrence River(seasonal), see Montmorency Falls
- Inclusions: Multi-lingual tour guide, round-trip transportation from Montreal to Quebec City, pickup and dropoff from select Montreal hotels, entry fees
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 670+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Spending a few days in Montreal, but still want to see Quebec City? We were in the same boat—literally. This full-day Quebec City tour let us soak up another iconic Canadian destination without planning overnight logistics or figuring out public transport. Everything was handled, from hotel pickup to itinerary highlights.
The day kicked off at Montmorency Falls, which somehow manages to be taller than Niagara but way less crowded. Then it was on to Old Quebec, where our guide Shawn kept the day relaxed but informative, sharing the city’s rich French history without overwhelming us with dates.
We had plenty of free time to wander the cobbled lanes of Petit Champlain, admire the Château Frontenac, and browse quirky little shops that looked like storybook illustrations. I may or may not have bought maple syrup from 3 different places!
The tour also includes a special bonus experience at the end. In warmer months, it’s a cruise along the St. Lawrence River with sweeping views of the city and Château Frontenac. In winter, it’s a visit to explore the surreal Ice Hotel, and the shoulder seasons bring you to the Museum of Civilization for a fascinating look at Quebec’s cultural roots. So no matter when you go, you’re in for a treat!
If you’re short on time but big on adventure, you’ll be amazed at how much you can experience in just one day on this trip!
This tour often sells out—secure your spot here before it’s too late!
4. See Montreal’s best sights on a bicycle tour
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: See the best of Montreal on a guided bike tour, ride on a 21-speed hybrid bike or upgrade to an e-bike, keep your bike rental for the rest of the day
- Inclusions: Licensed guide, helmet, bottled water, multi-speed comfort city bike or e-bike (depending on option selected), food tasting, drink, local taxes
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Montreal is Canada’s second-largest city, so if you want to cover a lot of ground in just a few hours, this half-day city bike tour is the best way to do it!
We rode with Mike, who was super knowledgeable, relaxed, and always kept an eye on the group. Whether someone needed to adjust their seat or snap a quick photo, he made space for it without slowing things down. The bikes were comfortable 21-speed hybrids, and there’s an e-bike option too if you want a little extra boost along the way.
We chose the 9-mile (14-kilometer) City Tour, which included a stop at the iconic St-Viateur Bagel and a fun loop through the Latin Quarter, Mont-Royal Park, and the Old Port. You can also opt for the Vista Architecture Tour if you’re more into bridges, river views, and unique buildings, plus a snack from Premiere Moisson bakery.
The best part was keeping the bikes for the rest of the day! After the official ride ended, Mike handed us maps, locks, and route tips so we could explore more on our own. Having that extra freedom really made the day feel flexible and low-pressure.
It’s the kind of tour that doubles as both a guided experience and a DIY adventure—no wonder it ended up being one of our favorite ways to explore the city!
Book this popular bike tour here—before it sells out!
5. Take a scenic private helicopter flight over the city
- Duration: 20–30 mintues
- Time: Multiple times available from 9 am to 6 pm
- Highlights: Private helicopter flight, admire aerial views of iconic landmarks like Jean Drapeau Park and the St. Lawrence River
- Inclusions: Driver/guide, headsets, live commentary, all taxes & fees
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 130+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
After days of exploring Montreal on foot and by bike, we thought we’d seen it all—until we took to the sky. This private helicopter ride was hands-down the most unforgettable 30 minutes of our entire trip. The second we lifted off, it felt like we were seeing the city for the first time!
Having the helicopter to ourselves made a big difference. No crowding or headset-sharing, just us, our pilot, and an unbeatable front-row seat to the skyline.
We chose the Montreal route, which looped around Olympic Stadium, the Jacques Cartier Bridge, the Old Port, and even the Boucherville Islands. Watching the city stretch out in every direction, with Mount Royal rising in the distance, was the kind of moment you just want to bottle up and replay later.
There’s also a shorter Saint-Laurent Circuit if you’re looking for a 20-minute flight—think Jean Drapeau Park, the Formula 1 racetrack, and the iconic Biosphere. But honestly? We were glad we went all in.
For jaw-dropping views and a perspective few travelers get, this private helicopter tour was absolutely worth it. It gave us a whole new appreciation for the city, like zooming out on a map and suddenly seeing how everything connects.
Reserve this helicopter ride here and see Montreal like never before!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Visit the Basilica, underground Montreal, Chinatown, and more with a local guide
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 10:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 2 pm
- Highlights: Walking tour from Old Montreal to the Plateau Mont-Royal, go inside the Notre-Dame Basilica, see the underground city, visit Chinatown, check out street art
- Inclusions: Local guide, beverages, food tasting, snacks
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 570+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’d walked around Old Montreal before, but mostly just the pretty parts in the tourist zone. This small-group walking tour helped connect the dots between neighborhoods and history in a way we just couldn’t have done on our own. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, but even if you’ve been before, you’ll see the city with totally new eyes.
Our guide, Melanie, was phenomenal! She was easygoing, knowledgeable, and always kept the group together. At one point, she even led us into Montreal’s underground city, where we passed a massive reflecting pool inside the World Trade Center and a tucked-away piece of the Berlin Wall that most people walk right by.
The tour kicked off at Notre-Dame Basilica, where we had time to step inside and take in its ornate interior before heading deeper into the city. From there, we strolled through Old Montreal’s historic streets, grabbed a quick bite in Chinatown, and wandered past the old Red Light District into Saint-Laurent Boulevard—each stop layered with stories and surprises.
We admired bold murals splashed across alley walls, browsed a chaotic three-floor thrift store, and wrapped up with a pause for locally roasted coffee in the Plateau. It was the kind of tour that really blended street art, social history, and local flavor in a way that felt thoughtful, not touristy.
It was like exploring the city with a local friend who made every corner feel alive with stories. Just bring comfy shoes, an open mind, and your curiosity!
Secure your spot here and experience a different side of Montreal!
7. Go jet boating on the Lachine Rapids
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 10 am to 6 pm
- Highlights: Go jet boating on the St. Lawrence River, see the Montreal Casino, Victoria Bridge, and the Clock Tower
- Inclusions: Life jacket, changing rooms, safe lockers, ponchos
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 60+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’d done our fair share of sightseeing in Montreal, so by the time we signed up for this jet boat tour, we were more than ready to switch things up. This wasn’t just a boat ride—it was a full-body, laugh-until-you-can’t-breathe blast through the roaring Lachine Rapids. And yes, we got completely soaked!
Our guide, Todd (a self-declared legend and, honestly, he lived up to it), had us grinning before we even left the dock. The ride starts out calm enough, cruising past the Clock Tower, Biosphere, and Habitat 67, but once we hit the rapids, it was total chaos in the best way. You’ll be drenched, laughing, and gripping the rail before you even realize what hit you.
The front of the boat is where the real action is (prepare to swallow half the river), while the back offers a tamer version that’s family-friendly and for anyone who wants to stay semi-dry. Either way, you’ll be laughing the whole time, and the shared reactions from the group made it even better
They provide ponchos, life jackets, and lockers, but our number one tip is to bring a full change of clothes, because no one escapes dry.
This was easily one of the most fun and unexpected highlights of our trip. Total adrenaline, zero stress, and a shared group energy that made it unforgettable!
Book your seat here—this jet boat sells out fast once the weather warms up!
8. Cruise around Montreal on a scooter
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Cruise through Montreal’s back streets and past top attractions on an electric scooter
- Inclusions: Driver/guide, use of helmet
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
By the time we hopped on electric scooters for this sightseeing tour, we’d already seen a lot of Montreal, but definitely not like this. It was the perfect mix of adventure and sightseeing, with enough local flavor to keep things surprising at every turn.
We rode with our guide, David, who was hands-down one of the best guides we’ve had anywhere. Easygoing, funny, and totally in his element, he brought the neighborhoods to life without ever making it feel scripted.
The route took us from downtown to Westmount, through the colorful buzz of Atwater Market (where we sampled a few treats), then into the revived industrial vibe of Saint-Henri and along the scenic Lachine Canal before wrapping up in Old Montreal.
The afternoon version focuses more on the west side of the city and gives a great snapshot of how Montreal has evolved from working-class roots to its cooler, creative side with things like the Biosphere Museum. The morning tour hits the east, with highlights like Jean-Talon Market, hidden alleyways, and a deeper dive into the city’s multicultural pockets. Either way, you’ll see a totally different side of Montreal than you would on foot or by car.
And yes, riding an e-scooter is as fun as it sounds. No experience needed, just show up, helmet up, and cruise. But don’t just take our word for it—read hundreds of five-star reviews here to see why travelers rave about this tour!
Secure this scooter tour here and discover Montreal from a whole new angle!
9. Discover Montreal’s murals and street art
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10 am, 2 pm, and 4:30 pm
- Highlights: Discover cultural and political murals on Montreal’s Saint-Laurent Boulevard, walk along the Main that divides Montreal’s east and west
- Inclusions: Local guide, recommendations, inside look into the Montreal art scene
- Rating: 5 stars (check 470+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Montreal’s streets are full of energy, but this small-group mural tour made us slow down and look up. We thought we’d seen a lot just walking around on our own, but having a guide transformed the whole experience. What looked like random street art at first turned into a colorful timeline of stories, artists, and subcultures layered across the city’s walls.
Our guide, Gabi, was easy to talk to, deeply knowledgeable, and totally dialed into Montreal’s art scene. She didn’t just point things out; she brought context to everything from large-scale commissioned pieces to tucked-away wheat pastes and stencils you’d never notice otherwise.
We walked Saint-Laurent Boulevard and its surrounding alleys, the heart of the city’s mural culture, spotting politically charged works, community tributes, and abstract pieces from local and international artists.
One of the highlights was the massive Leonard Cohen mural, but we also loved discovering how many styles and voices make up this living, ever-changing gallery.
The group was capped at ten, which made it feel personal and casual, more like wandering with an artsy local friend than following a tour script. We left not only with a new appreciation for Montreal’s murals but also with plenty of insider tips for food and drinks nearby.
This tour is a must for street art lovers and anyone craving a deeper, more colorful look at Montreal’s creative side!
Check out all the glowing five-star reviews and reserve this tour here!
10. Get your adrenaline pumping on a whitewater rafting excursion
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9:30 am, 12:30 pm, or 3 pm (depending on the day)
- Highlights: Challenge the Lachine Rapids on a whitewater rafting adventure down the Saint Lawrence River
- Inclusions: Professional guide, all necessary equipment, taxes, service fees, and fuel surcharges
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 190+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’d already seen the St. Lawrence River from above and by boat, but whitewater rafting it was totally next level. This guided rafting trip through the Lachine Rapids turned a regular summer day into a full-body adventure with just the right mix of adrenaline, teamwork, and straight-up fun.
We went for the adventure rafting option (hello, Class III waves!), but if you’re after a gentler ride, there’s also a calmer family rafting option that sticks to Class I–II rapids—still splashy and fun, just a little more chill.
And our guide, Gabriel, was phenomenal. He knew exactly how to read the water, coached us through every paddle stroke, and kept the energy high without ever making it feel stressful. The guy clearly knows the river inside and out and made sure we had a blast while staying safe.
The rapids themselves were a rush, crashing through standing waves, getting fully soaked, and feeling that shared whooping-laughing-yelling chaos that only a good rapid can bring. It wasn’t all wild, though. There were calm sections too, where we could catch our breath and take in the views of Montreal from the river’s edge.
They provided everything we needed, including life jackets, helmets, and paddles, and the whole experience was seamless from start to finish. It’s an unbeatable way to cool off and crank up the adrenaline, ideal for anyone who likes their sightseeing with a splash of adventure!
Book this rafting adventure here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Related Read: Need help planning your trip? This easy 3-day Montreal itinerary covers top sights, great food, and local favorites—perfect for first-timers or return visits.
Where to Stay in Montreal, Quebec
Montreal is packed with fantastic places to stay, whether you’re after upscale luxury, a comfortable mid-range suite, or a fun, budget-friendly hostel. From stylish boutique hotels with rooftop pools to cozy spots with kitchenettes and communal vibes, there’s something for every travel style and budget.
To make planning easier, we’ve put together our top picks for where to stay in Montreal so you can focus on enjoying the city!
Luxury – $$$
Set in the heart of downtown Montreal, the Honeyrose Hotel blends vintage-inspired glamour with modern comfort and top-tier service. With an Art Deco aesthetic, stylish restaurants, and rooms featuring walk-in showers, plush robes, and sweeping city views, this boutique stay feels indulgent and welcoming. Guests rave about the rooftop pool, spa, and standout location just steps from Place des Arts and Saint Catherine Street’s shopping scene.
Room rates typically range from $400–$700 CAD, depending on room type and season. Explore your options and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
L’Appartement Hôtel is a reliable and well-loved mid-range pick right in the heart of Montreal. Located just two blocks from McGill University and a short walk from the Place des Arts, it’s a practical base for exploring downtown. The spacious suites come with kitchenettes, dining areas, and private balconies—ideal for longer stays. Guests also enjoy a rooftop indoor pool, fitness center, self-serve laundry, and daily breakfast.
Rates typically start around $220 CAD per night. Check your travel dates and reserve your suite on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For budget-conscious travelers visiting Montreal, Auberge Saintlo Montréal Hostel is a top pick. Set just steps from Lucien-L’Allier Metro Station, this lively, modern hostel offers a mix of clean dorm beds and private rooms—all with en-suite bathrooms. Guests enjoy free breakfast, coworking spaces, a shared kitchen, and a welcoming on-site bar with fun daily activities. The friendly vibe and unbeatable downtown location make it a favorite among solo adventurers and backpackers alike.
Dorm beds typically start around $51 CAD, and private rooms are also available starting around $150 CAD. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
For more options, see all of Montreal’s hotels listed here!
Related Read: For a full breakdown of Montreal’s best areas and hotels, have a look at our where to stay guide here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Montreal is a vibrant mix of old-world charm and modern thrills—whether you’re wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, getting soaked on an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride, or tasting your way through the city’s diverse food scene. There’s truly something here for every kind of traveler.
We hope this guide helps you map out your perfect Montreal itinerary. These activities were some of the most unforgettable parts of our visit, and we’re confident you’ll love them just as much. If you’re looking for more Canadian travel inspiration, be sure to browse through all our Canada blogs here, or check out the ones below!
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Montreal: 3-Day Itinerary
The 3 BEST Niagara Falls Tours from Montreal