Saint Laurent River at Old Montreal

Bonsecours Market at Old Montreal

During our route, we'll pass by the charming Place Jacques-Cartier, one of Old Montreal's most picturesque and vibrant squares. This sloping plaza, built in the 19th century over the ruins of the former Château de Vaudreuil, serves as the beating heart of the old city, filled with street artists, outdoor cafés, and welcoming restaurants. During summer, its cobblestone streets come alive with flower markets, musical performances, and a unique European atmosphere. At the top of the square stands Nelson's Column, one of Montreal's first public monuments, offering a panoramic view that connects the colonial past to the city's vibrant present.

During our tour, we will pass in front of the Bank of Montreal, founded in 1817 as Canada's first and oldest bank, established at this historic location on Place d'Armes since 1847. This majestic neoclassical building, with its impressive Corinthian columns and limestone façade, represents over 175 years of Canadian financial history. The building houses not only banking operations but also a fascinating museum that tells the storey of currency and banking system evolution in the country. Its privileged location in the heart of Old Montreal makes it a symbol of the city's prosperity and commercial tradition.

This historic site in Old Montreal features three significant landmarks: the magnificent Notre-Dame Basilica with its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, the prestigious Bank of Montreal headquarters building, and the beautiful Place d'Armes square. At the centre of this charming cobblestone plaza stands the monument commemorating Montreal's founders, Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve and Jeanne Mance, who established the city in 1642.

Stop and historic explanation.

During our route, we'll pass in front of the prestigious McGill University, one of Canada's most renowned academic institutions and globally recognised. Founded in 1821, this historic university houses over 40,000 students from around the world and is known for its excellence in research and teaching. Its iconic limestone buildings and neoclassical architecture beautifully contrast with the modernity of city centre Montreal. The university has produced 12 Nobel Prize winners and continues to be a symbol of academic prestige in the heart of the city.

During our route, we'll pass by the renowned Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal), Canada's oldest art museum, founded in 1860. This impressive museum complex houses one of the country's most important art collections, featuring works ranging from Canadian and international art to contemporary pieces and world-class temporary exhibitions. Located on the elegant Sherbrooke Street, the museum stands out for its architecture that harmoniously combines historic buildings with modern glass and steel structures. Its galleries have hosted exhibitions by masters such as Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet, establishing Montreal as an important international cultural centre."

We'll make a special stop at the iconic Chalet du Mont-Royal, located in the heart of Parc Mont-Royal, a true symbol of Montreal. This privileged observation point offers one of Canada's most spectacular panoramic views, where we can contemplate the entire majestic expanse of city centre Montreal, the mighty Saint Lawrence River winding through the landscape, and a breathtaking view of the entire metropolitan region. The Chalet, built in 1932 and recently renovated, serves as the perfect lookout point to capture unforgettable photographs and appreciate the harmony between the mountain's preserved nature and the urban modernity that extends to the horizon. This special moment allows visitors to truly understand Montreal's unique geography and its strategic position in the heart of Quebec.

We will visit the majestic Saint Joseph's Oratory of Montreal, one of the most important and impressive basilicas in North America and one of the world's most visited Catholic shrines. Built between 1924 and 1967 on the slopes of Mount Royal, this religious monument is dedicated to Saint Joseph, patron saint of Canada, and was founded by Brother André, who was canonised in 2010. The basilica impresses not only with its grandiose architecture, featuring a dome that rises 129 metres high - the second largest in the world after Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican - but also for its rich history of miracles and healing. Visitors can explore the original crypt, the museum dedicated to Brother André, the beautiful gardens, and contemplate the panoramic views of Montreal. This sacred site attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists annually, offering a unique spiritual experience and breathtaking architecture."