Montreal: Discover Reso – The Underground City

Imagine a sprawling labyrinth of tunnels, shops, art, and history all beneath the cold streets of Montreal. That’s exactly what this tour of Reso, the city’s renowned underground network, offers. It’s a two-hour journey that promises to make you see Montreal from an entirely different perspective — one that’s warm, fascinating, and surprisingly vibrant.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to explore Montreal’s largest underground city in the world with a knowledgeable guide who’s passionate about local secrets. Second, the variety of sights packed into just two hours, from art-filled tunnels to stylish boutiques and historical landmarks. Sure, it’s a lot of ground to cover, but that’s part of the fun.

One possible drawback? Since the tour involves walking through a network of tunnels, it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage. But if you’re prepared for a bit of walking and stairs, you’ll find this tour an engaging and practical way to beat the weather and see a different side of Montreal.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, shopping enthusiasts, or anyone curious about how Montreal’s underground spaces serve as more than just passageways — they’re a vibrant part of city life. If you love discovering local stories while staying cozy out of the elements, this experience is a smart choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Largest underground network in Montreal, spanning 33 km of tunnels and shops.
• Engaging guides with deep local knowledge make the experience personal and lively.
• Includes visits to key landmarks like Complexe Desjardins, Central Station, and the Berlin Wall piece.
• Offers a mix of art, history, shopping, and food stops, all within a comfortable indoor setting.
• Cost-effective at $29 per person, providing great value for those wanting an authentic, insider look.
• Limited group size (up to 10 people) ensures a personalized experience and plenty of interaction.

The tour begins inside the Complexe Desjardins, a central hub in downtown Montreal. Here, you meet your guide and settle into the underground adventure. The first impression? An intricate maze of tunnels filled with art, shops, and stories. It’s a place where the city’s warmth and culture hide behind ordinary office buildings and shopping centers.

As we venture deeper, the guide points out some of the hidden gems—like a historic bank turned cozy café, which might surprise visitors expecting only commercial spaces. Then, it’s on to the World Trade Centre of Montreal, where a piece of the Berlin Wall offers a tangible link to history—an unexpected relic tucked away in the city’s commercial district.

One highlight is the visit to Montreal’s 1000 de la Gauchetière indoor ice rink, which is open year-round. Though most travelers won’t be skating, it’s easy to imagine Montrealers enjoying this cool retreat even during the hottest months. The Central Station, a hub of transit and activity, provides a practical glimpse of how locals navigate the city, and your guide may give a quick Metro 101 tutorial—super helpful if you want to explore further on your own.

The tour also takes you outside briefly, showing the Ring, a historical window framing over 200 years of downtown life, offering a visual snippet of the city’s layered past. Inside, you’ll get a taste of Montreal’s flair at Les Cours Mont-Royal — an elegant shopping destination with striking architecture.

No underground tour of Montreal would be complete without a dash of the quirky and colorful. Our guide expertly leads us to Barbie Expo, a selfie-lover’s paradise filled with life-sized Barbie dolls. It’s a light-hearted stop that’s perfect for photos and laughs.

Throughout the tour, there are opportunities to snap plenty of photos—from the art in the tunnels to the bustling shopping routes. Expect to recharge with an espresso or fresh juice in one of the underground cafes, giving you a taste of the local café culture—something our reviews highly praise, with visitors noting how friendly and knowledgeable guides make the experience memorable.

The shopping route map and instructions help you continue exploring afterward, whether that means visiting Eaton’s Center (including the Time Out Market) or Les Cours Mont-Royal. These stops aren’t just for shopping—they’re part of the underground city’s vibrant life, blending commerce and culture seamlessly.

At just $29 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a well-paced, informative experience designed to showcase the best of Montreal’s underground spaces without feeling rushed. The small group size (limited to 10) ensures plenty of personal attention, which many reviewers rave about—“a personable and fun experience,” says one participant.

In terms of logistics, meeting inside the Complexe Desjardins makes it easy to find, and the guide’s emphasis on punctuality keeps everything running smoothly. Participants should wear comfortable shoes for walking and be prepared for varying temperatures—they’ll experience the cool indoors and might want layers for the outdoor segments.

Note: Since the tour does not include meals, but offers opportunities for café stops, it’s perfect to combine with a meal afterward at a nearby restaurant or food hall. Also, it’s not suitable for children under five, wheelchair users, or those with low fitness levels, mainly because of the walking involved.

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides and local insight are what set this tour apart. Many mention how guides like Misha bring Montreal’s underground to life with stories and tips, making the experience feel both fun and educational. Travelers love the stunning views of the city’s architecture and the way the underground spaces blend art, history, and modern life.

The value for money shines through. For a modest fee, you get a comprehensive tour of key landmarks, insider tips, and plenty of photo opportunities—all in a cozy, climate-controlled environment. It’s especially favored during cold, rainy, or hot days, when staying indoors becomes a blessing.

The lunch and snack stops—at stylish restaurants and cafes—are often praised for their quality and friendliness, adding to the overall experience. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about feeling connected to the city’s pulse without braving the elements.

This experience is perfect if you want to maximize your time in Montreal without getting soaked or overheated. It’s well-suited for first-timers eager to understand how Montrealers live and work underground, or shoppers looking for recommendations in the city’s mall corridors.

History buffs will appreciate relics like the Berlin Wall segment and the stories behind the tunnels. Photo enthusiasts will love the art, architecture, and quirky stops like Barbie Expo. It’s a great fit for curious travelers wanting a mix of culture, history, and practical tips.

If you’re traveling with a small group, seeking personalized attention, or simply want a comfortable way to explore downtown Montreal, this tour offers excellent value. But if you prefer outdoor adventures or need wheelchair accessibility, you might want to consider other options.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children aged five and above. The tour involves walking and stairs, making it less suitable for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about two hours, covering a good portion of Montreal’s underground network and key sites.

Where do we meet for the tour?
Inside the Complexe Desjardins, at the main atrium near the water fountain. It’s no longer at Pâtisserie Harmonie, so check your email for updates.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
This tour involves walking and stairs, so it might not be suitable for wheelchair users. For specific needs, contacting the provider beforehand is recommended.

What’s included in the tour?
A guided exploration of Montreal’s underground city, visits to notable sites like Complexe Desjardins, the Berlin Wall piece, Central Station, and Barbie Expo, plus stops for snacks and shopping instructions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes, a camera for photos, and layers for temperature changes are advised. Food and drinks are available at stops, but you can bring your own if preferred.

The Discover Reso – The Underground City tour offers a well-rounded, friendly, and affordable introduction to one of Montreal’s most unique features. It’s a fantastic way to stay warm or dry while soaking up the city’s vibrant underground scene. Whether you’re a history lover, a shopaholic, or just someone curious about how Montreal’s underground spaces function, this tour delivers plenty of value.

The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge elevate the experience, making it more than just a walk through tunnels — it’s a lively inside look at Montreal’s hidden layers. With its mix of art, history, shopping, and practical tips, it’s a smart choice for a short trip or a rainy day activity.

If you want a fun, insightful, and authentic taste of Montreal’s underground life, this tour is hard to beat. It’s a small-group experience that balances structured sightseeing with personal storytelling, making it memorable without feeling rushed.

For travelers seeking a comfortable, engaging way to explore Montreal’s downtown and underground spaces—especially when the weather isn’t cooperating—this tour provides a down-to-earth, enjoyable, and informative experience.