Viator Rating : 5 (714 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.7/10 (Solid Experience)
Montreal
Montreal's Hidden Gems: Walking Tour Beyond the Basilica
165
Overview
Beyond the Basilica Non-Touristy Walking Tour by Spade & Palacio takes explorers on a journey through Montreal's captivating history and vibrant culture, venturing far beyond typical tourist hotspots. This isn't just a walk; it's an immersion into the city's soul, perfect for those seeking authentic experiences and hidden gems.
What to Expect: The tour starts with the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, then meanders through the charming streets of Old Montreal, and then avoids tourist crowds. The tour explores a section of Montreal's expansive Underground City (RESO), which leads to Chinatown for a tasty snack and stories about the area. Afterwards, the tour goes to the old Red Light District, now a lively entertainment spot, before exploring Saint-Laurent Boulevard's impressive street art.
This engaging tour includes a local guide, snacks, beverages, and a food tasting. Gratuities and hotel pickup/drop-off (if not selected) are not included. Stops include Basilica Square, Notre-Dame Basilica, Old Montreal, the Underground City, Chinatown, Saint-Laurent Boulevard, a unique Thrift Store, and Mile End. With Spade & Palacio, expect an unforgettable adventure filled with local flavor and unique sights. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (5 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (7 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
Skip the Tourist Traps: Discover Montreal's hidden gems and local hotspots.
Explore the Underground City: Venture into Montreal's famous underground network.
Taste Local Flavors: Enjoy snacks and a food tasting in Chinatown.
See Amazing Street Art: Admire vibrant murals on Saint-Laurent Boulevard.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing parts of Montreal they wouldn't find on their own.
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The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable.
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Many reviewers appreciated the variety of places visited.
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People enjoyed the food and drink provided during the tour.
Some found the tour to be a little long.
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A couple of reviewers felt that the pace was fast at times.
The Journey
Basilica Square
Begin your adventure in Basilica Square, a vibrant hub surrounded by a fascinating mix of architectural styles. Marvel at the juxtaposition of historical buildings and modern designs as you learn about the square's significance and the stories etched into its stones, a perfect prelude to the grandeur of the Basilica.
Notre-Dame Basilica
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal's most ornate church. Admire its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, intricate stained glass windows depicting Montreal's history, and the awe-inspiring interior. Take your time to soak in the spiritual and artistic atmosphere of this iconic landmark.
Old Montreal
Wander through the elegant streets of Old Montreal, a living testament to the city's rich history. Discover the former Wall Street of Canada, once the epicenter of Canadian finance, and learn about the cultural events that shape the area. Trace the footsteps of Montreal's founders as you delve into the city's origins.
Underground City (RESO)
Descend into Montreal's Underground City, a vast network connecting key landmarks from the World Trade Center to Chinatown. Explore this unique urban labyrinth, the world's largest interior network, offering a fascinating perspective on Montreal's ingenuity and adaptability. Discover hidden shops, restaurants, and art installations along the way.
Chinatown
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Montreal's Chinatown. Indulge in a delicious snack at a local bakery before strolling along the pedestrian mall. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of this bustling cultural enclave, a testament to Montreal's diverse communities.
Saint-Laurent Boulevard
Uncover the eclectic charm of Saint-Laurent Boulevard, a historic thoroughfare known for its vibrant street art, quirky thrift stores, and diverse cultural influences. Explore the remnants of the old Red Light District, now an entertainment hub, and learn about the boulevard's role as a gateway for generations of immigrants.
Thrift Store on Saint-Laurent Boulevard
Dive into a treasure trove of vintage finds at this massive three-story thrift store on Saint-Laurent Boulevard. Enjoy free time to explore its wild interior and discover unique clothing, accessories, and curiosities. A must-see destination for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Mile End
Venture into Mile End, a borough renowned for its high concentration of artists and creative energy. Admire the vibrant murals and street art that adorn the neighborhood's walls. Discover cool shops and hidden gems, and relax at a local coffee shop with a locally roasted brew. Receive personalized recommendations for further exploration, ensuring an authentic Mile End experience.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a local guide to show the way, plus tasty snacks, drinks, and a food tasting. What's not included is tips for the guide and pickup or drop-off at hotels (unless that option is picked). The meeting spot will be given once booked.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes! You'll be doing a lot of walking. Also, bring a small backpack to carry any water bottles or souvenirs you might buy along the way.
Review Summary
People finds this tour highly engaging and informative, praising the skip-the-line access to Notre-Dame Basilica and the unique exploration of non-touristy neighborhoods like the underground city, Chinatown, and the Plateau. Many highlight the knowledgeable guide, the mix of history and local culture, and the included snacks as standout positives. Some travelers note that the walking pace can be brisk and the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues due to stairs and uneven surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
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