If you are choosing among first-time Montreal activities, these three options offer very different ways to spend a few hours. One is a hands-on sport session, one is a guided walk focused on colonial history, and one is a private walking tour that combines downtown and Old Montréal.
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This comparison is designed for travelers researching things to do in Montreal for first time visitors. For related planning, see our TourPickGuide experience comparisons and Canada tours and experiences.
Montreal tour options at a glance
Use this comparison to match the itinerary, traveler feedback, duration, and key features to your preferred travel day.
| Tour | Best for | Rating | Reviews | Duration | Key point | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Hands-on winter sport | Travelers who want a participatory group experience and do not mind learning a sport on the ice. | ★ 5.0/5 | 35 reviews | Approx. 2 hr | Includes a coach who teaches basic curling techniques. | View on Viator |
 Historic walking lens | Travelers who want a shorter guided introduction to Old Montreal through a colonial history theme. | ★ 5.0/5 | 30 reviews | Approx. 1 hr 30 min | Shorter duration than the private city walk. | View on Viator |
 Private city walk | Travelers who want a private guide and a longer walking overview of both downtown and Old Montréal. | ★ 5.0/5 | 17 reviews | Approx. 3 hr | Private professional guide services are included. | View on Viator |
Montreal tour reviews and key differences
Each option includes its own photo gallery, overview, key features, traveler profile, and direct Viator link.
Compare this if you want a first-time Montreal activity that is more sport than tour.
Curling Experience in Montreal
Best for: Travelers who want a participatory group experience and do not mind learning a sport on the ice.
This option is centered on learning and playing curling rather than sightseeing. After arrival at the curling club, you join a shared group, receive safety guidance, and spend part of the session learning the basics from a coach before playing under supervision. The format is structured but active, so it suits travelers who want something memorable and interactive. Equipment for play is included, while clean sneakers are required. Drinks and snacks are not included. Because the experience is shared, it is a better fit for visitors who are comfortable learning with others instead of booking a private or walking-focused tour.
Curling Experience in Montreal
- Includes a coach who teaches basic curling techniques.
- All necessary curling equipment for play is provided.
- The group setup is social and active.
Compare this if you want a history-oriented walk with a shorter time commitment.
Indigenous-Led Tour: Colonial Secrets of Old Montreal
Best for: Travelers who want a shorter guided introduction to Old Montreal through a colonial history theme.
This is a guided walking tour for travelers who want a focused look at Old Montreal rather than a broad city overview. The experience emphasizes colonial history and the stories connected to the area’s past, with a live guide included throughout. It is the shortest of the three options, so it can work well when you want a concentrated introduction without a longer time commitment. The route notes point to historic places in the neighborhood, but the appeal here is the interpretive lens rather than a long list of activities. It may suit first-time visitors who want a thoughtful history walk that stays centered on one area.
Indigenous-Led Tour: Colonial Secrets of Old Montreal
- Shorter duration than the private city walk.
- Live guide is included.
- Offered in English and French options.
Compare this if you want a private, fuller walking introduction to the city.
Private Guided Old Montréal and Downtown Walking Tour
Best for: Travelers who want a private guide and a longer walking overview of both downtown and Old Montréal.
This private walking tour is the most expansive of the three and is designed for travelers who want a guided overview of multiple parts of Montreal in one outing. It starts in downtown and continues into the historic core, giving you a mix of city atmosphere and older streetscapes along the way. Because the tour is private, it is a good fit for visitors who prefer a more personal pace and direct attention from the guide. The inclusion list covers professional guide services and GST, while gratuities are excluded. If you want a broader introduction to the city rather than a single-theme experience, this format is the most comprehensive of the three.
Private Guided Old Montréal and Downtown Walking Tour
- Private professional guide services are included.
- Covers both downtown and Old Montréal.
- Longest walking option in this comparison.
Choosing an itinerary style in Montreal
For a first visit, think about whether you want an active session, a themed neighborhood walk, or a private overview that links more than one area. These three experiences work well as different kinds of half-day plans rather than direct substitutes.
Club-based session
The experience takes place at a curling club and follows an instruction-then-play format.
Old Montreal walking tour
The tour stays focused on Old Montreal and its historic context.
Downtown and Old Montréal route
The route begins downtown and continues into Old Montréal for a combined city overview.
Before you book in Montreal
Check the live product page before booking. Departure details, activity order, inclusions, and available options can change.
Montreal booking checklist
- Check the listed language option before booking, since not every experience offers the same choices.
- Review what is included and excluded so you know whether gear, guide service, or extras are covered.
- If you prefer a quieter experience, note that the curling session is shared, while the walking tour at the end is private.
Montreal tour questions answered
Which option is best if I want a non-sightseeing activity?
The curling experience is the most activity-based option because it focuses on learning and playing a sport rather than touring city streets.
Which tour is the shortest?
The Indigenous-Led Tour: Colonial Secrets of Old Montreal is the shortest of the three and stays focused on one neighborhood theme.
Which option gives the most personal attention from a guide?
The private guided walking tour is the best match if you want a private guide and a more individualized pace.