Beyond the Basilica Non-Touristy Montreal Walking Tour

Exploring Montreal’s hidden gems beyond the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, this non-touristy walking tour offers a unique cultural experience. Led by knowledgeable guides, participants dive into the vibrant street art and historic charm of Vieux-Montréal, savoring local snacks and discovering cozy cafes off the beaten path. With a small group size, this personalized adventure provides an immersive glimpse into the city’s diverse heritage, away from the typical tourist crowds. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local seeking a fresh perspective, this tour promises to unveil the city’s captivating stories that lie just steps from the basilica’s grandeur.

Key Points

• This walking tour offers a unique exploration of Montreal’s historic Vieux-Montréal district, beyond the typical tourist attractions.

• Participants can skip the line to directly access the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica and learn about the city’s blend of French, British, and Canadian influences.

• The tour includes a visit to Chinatown for a local snack and a stop at the transformed Red Light District, now an entertainment hub.

• Guests can enjoy a coffee from a third-wave shop and discover hidden gems, such as local street art and works from the MURAL Festival.

• The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who provides insights into Montreal’s history and culture, offering a personalized and immersive experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

This walking tour, titled "Beyond the Basilica Non-Touristy Montreal Walking Tour," offers a unique and immersive experience of the city.

Priced at $51.18 per person, the 2.5-hour tour is limited to 10 participants and conducted in English. Guests can skip the lines at the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, explore the historic Vieux-Montréal, and discover local street art and history.

The tour also includes a visit to Chinatown for a quick snack and a stop at the old Red Light District, now an entertainment hub. Participants will enjoy a coffee from a local third-wave shop and receive personalized recommendations for their stay in Montreal.

Experience Highlights

First, the tour allows guests to skip the line at the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, providing direct access to explore this architectural marvel.

Participants will then venture through the charming streets of Vieux-Montréal, discovering local street art and history.

The tour then visits Chinatown for a quick snack and explores the old Red Light District, now transformed into an entertainment hub.

Guests will also admire impressive works from Montréal’s MURAL Festival and enjoy a coffee from a local third-wave shop.

Tour Features

The tour includes entry to the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, although access may be limited if the church is closed for events.

Participants can also enjoy a food and beverage tasting, when possible, as part of the experience. A local guide is included, providing insight into the neighborhood’s history and culture.

Gratuities, however, aren’t included in the tour price. The tour is accessible for strollers, though it’s not suitable for children under 5 or wheelchair users.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a moderate amount of walking. Dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking.

Participant Requirements

Suitable for participants 5 years of age and older, this walking tour isn’t recommended for children under 5 or wheelchair users.

However, the tour is stroller accessible, making it accessible for families with young children.

For a comfortable experience, a moderate amount of walking is required, and a moderate physical fitness level is recommended.

Dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking to ensure the tour can accommodate any special needs.

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Additional Information

This tour operates in all weather conditions, so participants should dress appropriately for the prevailing weather.

Arriving 10 minutes early is recommended, as latecomers may miss the tour. The meeting point is located near public transportation for convenience.

For those with infants, infant seats are available. The tour is suitable for strollers, making it accessible for families.

Customer Reviews

Based on the provided information, the customer reviews for the "Beyond the Basilica Non-Touristy Montreal Walking Tour" seem quite positive.

The tour has an overall rating of 5/5 based on 1 review, which highlights the guide’s engaging and humorous approach.

Some key positive takeaways from the review include:

1. The guide’s ability to provide an entertaining and informative tour experience.
2. The tour’s focus on exploring lesser-known aspects of Montreal beyond the typical tourist attractions.
3. The opportunity to skip the line at the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica.
4. The inclusion of local food and beverage tastings, adding to the authentic culture.

Exploring Vieux-Montréal

The walking tour takes participants on an enchanting exploration of Vieux-Montréal, the historic heart of the city.

Visitors meander through the district’s elegant streets, admiring the stunning architecture that blends French, British, and Canadian influences.

Along the way, the guide shares tales of Montréal’s vibrant past, from the original Amerindian settlements to the city’s lively Red Light District.

Participants discover hidden gems, including local street art and impressive works from the renowned MURAL Festival.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the authentic atmosphere of this charming neighborhood, away from the typical tourist crowds.

Discovering Local Gems

Beyond exploring the historic streets of Vieux-Montréal, the walking tour takes visitors on a captivating journey to discover the city’s local gems.

The tour includes stops at:

1. Vibrant Chinatown, where participants can enjoy a quick local snack.
2. The old Red Light District, now transformed into an entertainment hub.
3. Impressive works of art from the annual MURAL Festival.
4. A cozy third-wave coffee shop for a rejuvenating caffeine break.

Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide provides a personalized list of recommendations to help participants make the most of their Montreal adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants are encouraged to take photos during the tour. The guide will provide information and context to enhance the experience, allowing visitors to capture the highlights of the tour.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour is moderately accessible, with stroller access provided. However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the moderate amount of walking required. Guests with disabilities should advise their dietary needs when booking.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. Prices are fixed at $51.18 per person, with no reduced rates available. The tour is open to all participants aged 5 and above, with no special pricing tiers.

Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are not permitted to bring their own food or drinks on the tour. The tour includes one food and one beverage tasting, and participants should advise of any dietary requirements when booking.

Are There Any Options to Extend the Tour or Add on Additional Activities?

There are no options to extend the tour or add on additional activities. The tour lasts 2.5 hours and cannot be extended. Any extra activities would need to be arranged separately after the tour concludes.

Recap

This personalized tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Montreal’s hidden gems, immersing participants in the city’s rich history and vibrant street art. With a focus on Vieux-Montréal and a visit to the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, the tour provides a cultural experience away from the typical tourist crowds, complemented by local snacks and a cozy coffee shop experience. The small group size ensures a tailored and engaging exploration of Montreal’s lesser-known treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here: