Montreal Shore Excursion: Pre- or Post-Cruise Guided Sightseeing Tour of Montreal

Explore the vibrant city of Montreal with a comprehensive sightseeing tour that showcases its historic heart. From the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal to the majestic St. Joseph’s Oratory, this guided excursion provides a captivating journey through the city’s diverse cultural and historic landmarks. Discover the rich sporting heritage at the Olympic Park, admire the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, and learn about the serene landscapes of Mount Royal Park. With deluxe coach transportation and the option to enjoy this experience before or after your cruise, this shore excursion is the perfect way to uncover the essence of this remarkable Canadian city.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Montreal.

Key Points

• Explore the historic heart of Old Montreal, with its cobblestone streets and 17th-century architecture, including the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica.
• Discover the Olympic Park, a testament to Montreal’s sporting heritage, featuring the towering Olympic Stadium and the Biodome’s diverse ecosystems.
• Enjoy the serene landscapes of Mount Royal Park, with its forested trails, the imposing Mount Royal Cross, and the Chalet du Mont-Royal.
• Visit the majestic St. Joseph’s Oratory, the world’s largest shrine dedicated to Saint Joseph, and admire its grand architecture and ornate interior.
• Experience a comprehensive guided sightseeing tour of Montreal’s top attractions, ideal for pre- or post-cruise visitors.

Exploring Old Montreal

The guided tour of Old Montreal takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s historic heart, where cobblestone streets and 17th-century architecture create a charming and well-preserved ambiance.

Travelers will explore the iconic Old Port, situated along the St. Lawrence River, and admire the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture.

The tour also showcases the lively Place d’Armes, where historic landmarks like the Bank of Montreal and the Aldred Building stand as testaments to the city’s rich commercial history.

As the guide provides insightful commentary, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation for Montreal’s enduring legacy and the unique blend of French and North American influences that shape its character.

Visiting Notre-Dame Basilica

As the guided tour continues through Old Montreal, visitors can’t miss the opportunity to admire the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This 19th-century Gothic Revival-style cathedral is renowned for its intricate interior, featuring ornate wood carvings, stained-glass windows, and vibrant colors.

Visitors are captivated by the basilica’s striking blue and gold décor, which creates a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

The guided tour allows guests to learn about the cathedral’s rich history, including its role in the city’s religious and cultural heritage.

Exploring the basilica’s stunning architecture and learning about its significance is a highlight of the Montreal shore excursion for many travelers.

Discovering Olympic Park

Next, the guided tour typically explores the captivating Olympic Park, a testament to Montreal’s rich sporting heritage.

Constructed for the 1976 Summer Olympics, this expansive complex features several iconic landmarks, including the towering Olympic Stadium and the sleek Biodome.

Visitors can marvel at the stadium’s unique inclined tower, which once held the world’s largest retractable roof.

The Biodome, a former velodrome, now houses diverse ecosystems showcasing the flora and fauna of the Americas.

As the tour continues, travelers can wander through the serene landscapes and stop to admire the striking architecture that defines this historic sporting venue.

The Olympic Park provides a fascinating glimpse into Montreal’s athletic legacy.

Strolling Mount Royal Park

Typically, the tour then takes visitors on a leisurely stroll through the serene landscapes of Mount Royal Park, a tranquil urban oasis that offers sweeping vistas of the city skyline.

This natural gem, designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, features:

• Lush forested trails perfect for hiking and exploring
• The imposing Mount Royal Cross, a prominent landmark overlooking the city
• The Chalet du Mont-Royal, a historic building housing an observation deck with panoramic views

As travelers meander through the park’s winding pathways, they can’t help but feel a sense of peace and solitude, despite being just minutes from the bustling heart of Montreal.

Experiencing St. Joseph’s Oratory

The tour then takes visitors to the majestic St. Joseph’s Oratory, a renowned Roman Catholic basilica and one of Montreal’s most iconic landmarks.

Perched atop Mount Royal, this massive domed church is the world’s largest shrine dedicated to Saint Joseph. Visitors can admire the grand architecture, featuring a distinctive copper dome that dominates the Montreal skyline.

Inside, the ornate interior boasts beautiful murals, stained glass, and an impressive pipe organ. Guests are invited to explore the shrine’s museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the life of Saint Joseph and the history of the basilica.

The tranquil grounds also offer stunning views of the city below, providing a peaceful respite from the bustling streets.

Deluxe Coach Transportation

The deluxe coach used for the Montreal sightseeing tour features live narration from a knowledgeable guide, providing passengers with in-depth commentary on the city’s landmarks and history as they travel between attractions. This ensures that visitors get the most out of their tour, learning about the significance and stories behind the various sites they visit.

The coach is also equipped with comfortable seating and climate control, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable journey throughout the 3-hour excursion.

The tour includes:

• Hotel or port pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for both pre- and post-cruise travelers
• Worry-free shore excursion guarantee, giving passengers peace of mind
• A maximum of 56 travelers per tour, providing an intimate and personalized experience.

Pre- or Post-Cruise Availability

This Montreal sightseeing tour is available as either a pre-cruise or post-cruise option, allowing travelers the flexibility to explore the city at their convenience. Guests can choose to take the tour before embarking on their cruise or after disembarking, providing a seamless way to discover the city’s top attractions regardless of their travel itinerary.

Pre-Cruise	Post-Cruise
Tour starts at hotel/port	Tour ends at hotel/port
Maximize time in Montreal	Debrief after cruise
Ideal for early arrivals	Convenient for late departures
Energize before sailing	Relax after voyage
Comprehensive city overview	Reinforced cruise memories

Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee

Alongside the comprehensive sightseeing itinerary, this Montreal shore excursion offers a worry-free guarantee, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for guests.

This guarantee includes:

• Timely hotel or port pickup and drop-off, eliminating the hassle of navigating the city independently.
• Knowledgeable and experienced guides who provide live commentary, ensuring visitors gain a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and key attractions.
• A commitment to rescheduling or refunding the tour in the event of unexpected cruise schedule changes or cancellations, providing peace of mind for travelers.

This worry-free guarantee, combined with the extensive tour highlights, makes this Montreal shore excursion an attractive and convenient option for cruise passengers seeking a comprehensive sightseeing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

According to the tour details, the maximum group size for the sightseeing tour is 56 travelers. The large group size allows for a more comprehensive and enjoyable experience with a knowledgeable guide providing live narration throughout the tour.

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

The tour does not allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks. Passengers are expected to purchase any refreshments from the coach or at the tour stops. Food and beverages are not included in the tour price.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour provider offers discounted rates for children and seniors. Children under a certain age may qualify for free admission, while seniors can receive a reduced price. Customers should inquire about specific pricing and eligibility requirements when booking the tour.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Customers can’t customize the tour itinerary for this excursion. The tour features a set itinerary that visits key attractions in Montreal. However, travelers can request modifications by contacting the local supplier prior to the tour.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy typically allows for a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour. Closer to the tour date, a partial refund or tour credit may be offered. Policies vary by tour operator.

Recap

This guided sightseeing tour of Montreal showcases the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landmarks.

From the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal to the majestic St. Joseph’s Oratory, the tour provides a comprehensive and captivating journey through the diverse attractions that make this city so unique.

Whether you’re a cruise passenger or a local, this tour offers a worry-free and immersive experience to discover the heart and soul of Montreal.