Montreal Guide

Montreal Historical Tours

Explore French Canadian heritage, Basilica, and 380 years of Montreal history!

54+ tours
From $40
2-4 hours
Montreal Historical Tours

Discover Montreal's fascinating 380-year history from French colony to modern metropolis! Historical tours explore founding in 1642 by French settlers, British conquest aftermath, Notre-Dame Basilica, Mount Royal Park (designed by Olmsted who designed Central Park!), Olympic Stadium from 1976 Olympics, historical museums, and cultural heritage. Visit sites commemorating French explorers, learn about French-English tensions, see how Montreal preserved French language and culture, and understand Quebec independence movement. Tours include McGill University area, Victorian architecture, St. Joseph's Oratory (massive basilica), and neighborhoods showing evolution. It's complex, fascinating history of bicultural city!

Featured Historical Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for historical tours in Montreal

Old Montreal Historical Downtown Self Guided Walking Tour
From $9.75
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

We’ll wander past grand basilicas, cozy bakeries, hidden courtyards, plazas, markets, statues and so much more. You’ll see where French settlers laid their roots, where revolutions stirred, and where art, food, and architecture all collided to create something uniquely Montreal. So bring your curiosity, a camera, and maybe an appetite, this is a city best explored with all your senses. Your tour begins at the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History, Pointe-à-Callière — the exact spot where the city was born. The tour is location aware and plays as you walk. Go at your own pace, anytime. The tour never expires.

4.0(1)
50 min
View Details
Day trip on Quebec Historic Road, Chemin du Roy (Montreal to Trois-Rivières)
From $880.89
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Discover the treasures of the oldest road in Quebec, Chemin du Roy (King's road) is the olde road that was built between Quebec and Montreal Cities during the new France era. Admire the Architectural and industrial heritage of the small towns along the road. See one of the most beautiful small towns downtown in the province of Quebec. Visit the 2nd oldest city in Canada and see both its old parts and popular downtown. Visit Canada’s National Shrine to Our Blessed Mother.

5.0(3)
9h
View Details
Private Walking Tour of Old Montreal: Historic & Cultural Sites
From $482.69
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Embark on a captivating, private walking tour of Old Montreal, where every step tells a story. As you traverse the cobblestone streets, you’ll uncover the rich tapestry of history that defines this city. From the architectural splendor of Place d’Armes to the bustling marketplace at Place Jacques-Cartier, immerse yourself in a blend of cultural heritage and modern vibrancy. Feel like a true explorer, discovering secret courtyards and enjoying panoramic views at the Old Port. This tour isn’t just a journey through Montreal’s past; it’s your gateway to becoming a part of its lively present. Join us to not only see Montreal but to experience it authentically—where you aren’t just a visitor, but the heart of the adventure. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

2h
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Why Choose Historical Tours in Montreal?

Unique History

Only major French-speaking city in North America!

Mount Royal

Iconic park giving Montreal its name with city views!

Bicultural Story

Fascinating French-English dynamic shaping Montreal.

Historic Architecture

French colonial, Victorian, and modern buildings!

Types of Historical Tours in Montreal

Montreal History Walking Tour

Explore founding, French heritage, and key historical sites.

3 hoursMultiple erasExpert guideWalkingComprehensive

Mount Royal Park Tour

Visit park summit for panoramic views and Olmsted design.

2-3 hoursPark tourSummit viewsNature + historyScenic

Olympic Stadium Tour

Behind-scenes at iconic 1976 Olympic venue.

90 minutesStadium tourTower accessSports historyUnique

Heritage Buildings Tour

Architectural tour of historic Victorian and colonial buildings.

3 hoursArchitectureMultiple erasPhoto stopsEducational

What to Expect on Your Montreal Historical Tours

Duration

Walking tours: 2-3 hours. Mount Royal: 2-3 hours. Full historical: 4-5 hours.

Mount Royal

Mountain in city center with summit views and Frederick Law Olmsted design.

French Heritage

Understand how Montreal maintained French language and culture.

St. Joseph's Oratory

Massive basilica on Mount Royal slope - impressive architecture!

Founding Story

Learn about 1642 founding and evolution into modern city.

Olympic Legacy

Visit 1976 Olympic sites including distinctive stadium tower.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Mount Royal summit accessible by car, bus, or 20-minute hike - views are worth it!

2

Olympic Stadium tower ($24) offers 360° views from tallest inclined tower.

3

St. Joseph's Oratory ($5 donation) - climb 283 steps or take funicular.

4

Free historical walking tours (tip-based) available in Old Montreal.

5

McGill University campus beautiful - walk through freely.

6

Many museums closed Mondays - plan historical tours Tuesday-Sunday.

7

Summer Tam-Tams at Mount Royal (Sundays) - drum circle and market!

8

Learn a few French words - effort appreciated by locals!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is Mount Royal?

A: Mount Royal (Mont Royal) is mountain in city center giving Montreal its name! Frederick Law Olmsted-designed park with summit lookout offering panoramic views. Accessible by hike, bus, or car. FREE! Essential Montreal sight - locals love it.

Q:Can you visit Olympic Stadium?

A: Yes! Montreal Olympic Stadium ($15 tour) shows 1976 Olympic venue with distinctive inclined tower. Tower observation deck ($24) has views. Architecture unique (love it or hate it!). Sports fans and architecture buffs enjoy it. Quick 90-minute tour.

Q:Is Montreal historically significant?

A: Very! Founded 1642 as French colony, conquered by British 1760, became largest French-speaking city in North America. It played key role in fur trade, railroad, and Canadian development. Unique French-English bicultural history. Tours bring it alive!

Q:What is St. Joseph's Oratory?

A: St. Joseph's Oratory is massive basilica on Mount Royal slope - Canada's largest church! Built 1924-1967. Dome is third-largest in world. $5 donation. 283 steps (some pilgrims climb on knees!). Impressive architecture and city views. Worth visiting!

Q:How much do historical tours cost?

A: Walking tours: $40-70 (2-3 hours). Free walking tours (tip-based). Mount Royal: FREE (park). Olympic Stadium: $15-24. Museum combos: $30-50. Private: $150-300 for group. Montreal history accessible and affordable!

Q:Can you hike Mount Royal?

A: Yes! Multiple trails to summit - most popular is 20-30 minute hike from parking/bus stop. It's moderate climb but paved. Summit has lookout (Belvédère Kondiaronk) with incredible city views. FREE! Locals jog/walk it daily. Highly recommended!

Q:When is the best time for historical tours?

A: Spring/summer (April-Sept) best for walking and Mount Royal. Fall gorgeous with foliage. Winter cold but Underground City tours work well. Historical sites accessible year-round. Summer busiest but most pleasant for outdoor exploration.

Q:Are historical tours in English?

A: Yes! Most tours offered in English and French. Montreal is officially bilingual. Tour companies cater to both languages. Book English tours in advance. Guides speak both languages. No language barrier for tourists!

Don't Miss the Perfect Montreal Experience

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Why Visit Montreal?

Historic Old Montreal with European charm

World-famous festivals and cultural events

Authentic French Canadian cuisine

Beautiful architecture and historic sites

Vibrant arts scene and entertainment

Perfect blend of French and Canadian culture

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Montreal enjoys four distinct seasons. Summers are warm (70-85°F/21-29°C), winters are cold (10-30°F/-12-1°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.

Best Months

May to June and September to October offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with warm weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

November to April offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and snow.

Plan Your Montreal Trip

Transportation Tips

Excellent public transportation with Metro, buses, and commuter trains. Walking is perfect for exploring Old Montreal, and ride-sharing services are widely available.

Car Rental Deals in Montreal

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Where to Stay

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Best Hotel Deals in Montreal

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Discover the best tours and activities in Montreal with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.