Visiting Montreal for the day, or welcoming friends and family discovering the city for the first time? Here’s a ready-to-go itinerary to help you make the most of the city—without missing any must-see highlights.
The secret? Combine a land and water experience. The hop-on hop-off bus lets you explore Montreal’s neighborhoods at your own pace, while the guided cruise on the St. Lawrence River reveals the city from a perspective few visitors ever get to see. Together, they offer a complete and immersive way to discover Montreal in just one day.
Morning: Old Montreal and Notre-Dame Basilica
The historic heart of the city, Old Montreal charms visitors with its cobblestone streets and its blend of European flair and distinctly Montreal character. Among its top highlights, Notre-Dame Basilica stands out with its richly detailed interior—often considered one of the most spectacular in North America.
Psst! If you’re looking for a different kind of experience, opt for an evening visit with the AURA experience. This immersive journey blending light, music, and architecture transforms the basilica into a true sensory spectacle (starting at 6 p.m., reservation required).
To enhance your itinerary, several stops are also worth a visit: Bonsecours Market, ideal for its cafés with terraces and its Québec-made boutiques; the Quartier des spectacles for its vibrant cultural scene; and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, a must for art lovers.
Notre-Dame Basilica
Photo credit: Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal
11:30 a.m.: Guided cruise on the St. Lawrence River
Around 11 a.m., head to the Grand Quay at the Old Port to board with Croisieres AML and unwind. During this 1.5-hour cruise, you’ll sail along the St. Lawrence River with a knowledgeable guide who will share the history and secrets of Montreal from the water.
What you’ll see from the deck:
Downtown Montreal from the river—a unique perspective
The Jacques-Cartier Bridge from below
Sainte-Helene and Notre-Dame islands
The Olympic Stadium and the Biosphere
Around 1 p.m.: A delicious break
You’re already in one of the best areas to grab lunch! Depending on your mood, choose from:
A waterfront meal on rue de la Commune
A picnic along the quay (with nearby gourmet shops and bakeries)
A local microbrewery to sample Quebec flavors
Old Montreal and Old Port (Place Jacques-Cartier)
Photo credit: Stéphan Poulin, Tourisme Montreal
Afternoon: Discover Montreal by Hop-On Hop-Off bus
Hop aboard the sightseeing bus at the nearest stop (several are conveniently located in Old Montreal, including Notre-Dame Basilica and Pointe-a-Calliere Museum) among about ten strategic stops across downtown.
The hop-on hop-off concept means total freedom: get off whenever you want, explore at your own pace, then hop back on to continue your journey. During the summer season, buses run approximately every 15 minutes, so you can make the most of every moment.
Must-see stops
Mount Royal and Kondiaronk Belvedere
Take in breathtaking panoramic views of Montreal from one of the city’s most iconic viewpoints. A perfect photo stop and a great place to pause before continuing your adventure.
Saint Joseph’s Oratory
Perched on the western slope of Mount Royal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory is the largest shrine in the world dedicated to Saint Joseph and one of the most visited pilgrimage sites globally. Its impressive dome dominates the skyline, and the view over the city is truly remarkable.
Kondiaronk Belvedere
Photo credit: Eva Blue
4 p.m.: Keep exploring… or enjoy an aperitif
Let yourself be guided by your mood. You can hop back on the bus to explore other neighborhoods, head back to your hotel to freshen up, or go in search of a lively terrace to end the day on a high note.
👉 Good to know: the last departure of the circuit is at 4 p.m. from the starting point, with a final stop at each location afterward.
Fortunately, your ticket is valid for 2 days from first use, giving you a great opportunity to continue exploring the next day and make the most of your stay in Montreal!
Hotel William Gray
Photo credit: Alison Slattery
Why this combo is the best way to see Montreal in one day
The bus immerses you in Montreal’s vibrant neighborhoods and street life, while the cruise offers a broader perspective, showcasing the beauty of the St. Lawrence River that runs through the city.
Together, these two experiences reveal Montreal from every angle, giving you the feeling of having truly discovered the city in just one day.
