Bike / E-bike Tour : Downtown, Old Montreal, Waterfront by Fitz

Exploring Montreal on Two Wheels: A Detailed Look at the Downtown & Old Montreal Bike Tour

If you’re visiting Montreal, a city famed for its vibrant neighborhoods, historic architecture, and bike-friendly streets, then this bike/e-bike tour offers an engaging way to see the highlights in just a few hours. While we haven’t taken the tour ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded experience perfect for first-timers and those wanting a taste of the city’s diverse charm.

What we love about this tour? First, the comprehensive route that covers key sites like Mount Royal, McGill University, Old Montreal, and the Old Port—allowing you to see the city’s core without the fatigue of walking. Second, the knowledgeable guides make the journey informative and personal, adding stories and fun facts that bring Montreal’s history alive. One possible consideration? For those less comfortable with biking or hills, the optional e-bikes are a real boon.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a practical, active introduction to Montreal. Whether you’re short on time, want to avoid the hassle of public transport, or simply love the idea of exploring city streets on two wheels, this experience checks many boxes.

Key Points

• City Highlights in a Short Time: Covers downtown, Old Montreal, and waterfront, perfect for a quick overview.
• Guided Experience: Led by friendly, knowledgeable locals who share tips, history, and insider stories.
• All Equipment Included: Comfortable bikes, helmets, and the option for electric bikes make riding accessible.
• Ideal for First-Time Visitors: Great orientation to major neighborhoods and scenic spots.
• Weather-Ready: Operates in all weather, with rain gear provided if needed.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and safety.

Why Choose This Montreal Bike Tour?

Montreal’s network of bike paths makes cycling one of the best ways to explore the city efficiently. This tour capitalizes on that, weaving through both scenic parks and historic streets. We loved the way the route balances iconic landmarks with neighborhood flavor—giving you a layered understanding of what makes Montreal unique.

Starting near Parc Jeanne-Mance, you’ll meet your guide, get fitted with your bike, and set off through leafy streets toward Mont Royal Park. The view from the foot of the mountain is a highlight, offering a panoramic glance at the city skyline framed by nature. Here, the guide will share stories about Montreal’s green spaces and their significance.

Next, the route takes you onto the McGill University campus, a beautifully maintained area full of historic buildings and lively student life. This stop is perfect for those interested in the city’s educational and cultural fabric. The guide’s commentary here often includes fun anecdotes, making the university come alive beyond just its architecture.

Exploring Old Montreal and the Waterfront

Crossing into Old Montreal, you’ll feel transported to Europe. Cobbled streets and centuries-old structures evoke a sense of stepping back in time. Many reviews cite this as the most atmospheric part of the tour. As you pedal along narrow streets, the guide shares tales of Montreal’s colonial past and the significance of landmarks like the Notre-Dame Basilica (note that the ticket isn’t included, but you can choose to visit afterward).

The ride along the Old Port of Montreal offers stunning views of the river and skyline. It’s a lively area with plenty of activity, making it a perfect spot for photos and people-watching. The guide points out local attractions and a few hidden gems along the waterfront.

The Route and Stops: What to Expect

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize sightseeing while keeping the ride manageable. The tour typically includes:

• A start and end point at Fitz Montreal Bike & Walking Tours, centrally located.
• A brief stop at Mount Royal Park with incredible city views (about 5 minutes). Many reviews mention how the scenery here makes the ride worthwhile.
• An exploration of McGill University (about 10 minutes), where you can soak in campus atmosphere.
• Passing by Place des Arts, the hub of Montreal’s festival scene, for a quick look at its grandeur.
• An outside stop at Notre-Dame Basilica with storytelling about its significance (though entry isn’t included).
• A leisurely ride through Old Montreal, passing historic streets and squares, with plenty of time for photos and questions.
• The Old Port, riding along the riverfront and soaking in the lively ambiance.

The tour concludes back at the starting point with a light refreshment—a nice touch that adds a personal feel and a chance to reflect on what you’ve seen.

The Equipment and Comfort

All necessary gear is provided, including bikes and helmets. The bikes are described as comfortable, and the availability of e-bikes is a real advantage for those concerned about hills or tired legs. Reviews suggest that the e-bike upgrade is well worth it, especially if you want a less strenuous experience.

Clothing-wise, casual and weather-appropriate attire is recommended. Since the tour runs in all conditions, rain gear is supplied if needed, adding to the convenience.

Group Size and Booking

With a maximum of 10 people, the tour maintains a friendly, intimate atmosphere, allowing guides to give personal attention and share insights without feeling rushed. Booking is straightforward, and the tour operates in both English and French upon request, accommodating Montreal’s bilingual vibe.

The Value of This Experience

At a price of $88.25 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It includes guided commentary, a quality bicycle, helmet, and taxes—all essentials that could add up if you rented equipment independently. The reviews repeatedly highlight how knowledgeable guides make all the difference, blending historical facts, local tips, and humor to keep the ride engaging.

Many travelers note that this experience is a perfect orientation for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick, active overview of Montreal’s diverse neighborhoods. For the price, it’s a practical way to cover a lot of ground without the fatigue of walking or the hassle of navigating public transit.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

What makes this tour stand out? The reviews confirm that guides like Fred, JF, and Eduardo combine friendliness with local expertise. They make the city’s stories accessible, often sharing personal insights or recommending local spots to explore later. This personal touch adds authenticity that you won’t get from a generic city overview.

On top of that, the route itself showcases Montreal’s bike-friendly reputation, with plenty of protected bike paths and gentle streets. That creates a safe, comfortable environment for riders of all experience levels, making it suitable for families, casual cyclists, or active travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This bike tour is best suited for travelers who:

• Want an active, scenic introduction to Montreal.
• Appreciate guided storytelling about history, culture, and neighborhoods.
• Prefer public transportation or walking isn’t ideal for their schedule.
• Value good equipment and safety, especially with the option for electric bikes.
• Are comfortable riding on flat terrain, but benefit from pedal assist on hills.
• Are traveling with a small group for a more personalized experience.

It’s particularly well-regarded for first-time visitors, families with older children, or anyone seeking a low-impact way to get their bearings in the city.

The Sum Up

This Montreal bike and e-bike tour offers a compelling mix of scenic views, historical tidbits, and practical exploration. The guided approach ensures you’ll learn about the city’s stories from locals who know it best, all while enjoying the fresh air and sights from the saddle of a comfortable bike. The small group size and included equipment make it an accessible, stress-free way to see the heart of Montreal.

Whether you’re a history buff, a casual cyclist, or someone eager to cover ground quickly, this tour delivers good value and memorable moments. It’s a perfect option for first-time visitors wanting an authentic, active taste of Montreal’s neighborhoods and waterfront.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is designed for participants aged 14 and older, making it suitable for older children and adults. The small group size and easy terrain also help make it a safe experience for most.

What kind of bikes are used?
All necessary bikes are included, and they are described as comfortable. You can upgrade to an electric bike if you prefer an easier ride, especially on hills or longer distances.

Does the tour operate in all weather?
Yes, it operates rain or shine. In case of rain, stylish rain capes are provided, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable.

Are helmets included?
Helmets are provided and optional, depending on your preference.

What should I wear?
Casual, weather-appropriate clothing is best. Avoid flip-flops; closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Parking is extremely difficult near the shop, so public transportation or walking is advised.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less than 24 hours, and a full refund is not available.

In sum, this bike tour combines scenic beauty, expert guidance, and excellent value, making it one of the best ways to get acquainted with Montreal. Whether you’re here for a quick overview or an active adventure, it’s a ride worth considering.