French Capital of the Americas: Audio Tour of Old Montréal
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Welcome to Montréal, the French Capital of the Americas in the middle of the grandiose St.Lawrence River. It’s a unique and multicultural city that’s proud of its French and English heritage, and also open to the world. On this self-guided audio tour with Context Travel expert and tour guide, Bruno-Serge Boucher, you’ll find out how the city got its start. You’ll also see where the French dropped anchor, where the Catholic Church established its churches, and where English entrepreneurs founded their banks and businesses. The tour starts on the corner of Place d’Youville and Place Royale, at the very place where Montréal was founded in 1647. After being struck by the splendour of the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, you’ll continue to Place Jacques-Cartier, a square regularly filled with markets and festivities. You’ll end the tour at the Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours Chapel – the very same chapel that’s featured in the song “Suzanne”, by Leonard Cohen, who was a Montreal-native.
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1 hour 15 min – 1 hour 45 min
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- App for Android and iOS
- Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
- Food and drink
- Transportation
- Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Walk through this historic square where Montréal was founded in 1647, marking the birthplace of the city. Experience the convergence of old and new as modern buildings stand alongside centuries-old architecture.
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Stop 2
Marvel at this iconic brutalist housing complex across the Saint Lawrence River, featuring stacked concrete cubes that create a striking geometric pattern. Explore a revolutionary architectural vision that transformed urban living when it was built for Expo 67.
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Stop 3
Pass by this imposing financial building where major Canadian banks established their head offices. Discover the heart of Canada's answer to Wall Street on historic St. James Street.
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Stop 4
Admire this prestigious multi-purpose venue that once served as home to the Canadian Bank of Commerce. Experience a beautifully preserved example of Montréal's transformation from commercial hub to cultural destination.
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Stop 5
Stroll through this central square surrounded by some of the city's most significant buildings. Enjoy the energy of this historic gathering place where Montréal's French and English heritage meet.
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Stop 6
View one of the oldest seminaries of its kind in North America, dating back to the city's earliest days. Marvel at the simple yet dignified stone architecture that has survived centuries of urban change.
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Stop 7
Step inside this breathtaking Gothic Revival masterpiece with its stunning blue vaulted ceiling and intricate woodwork. Experience the splendour of one of North America's most dramatic religious spaces.
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Stop 8
Walk through this lively square regularly filled with markets, street performers, and festivities. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this beloved public space that has been the heart of Old Montréal for generations.
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Stop 9
Pass by this grand Second Empire-style building that has served as the seat of municipal government since 1878. Admire the ornate French architecture that reflects the city's European roots.
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Stop 10
Explore this stunning neoclassical building that served as the city's main public market for 100 years. Grab a tasty treat from this beautifully restored landmark now filled with local food vendors and artisans.
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Stop 11
Visit this historic chapel immortalised in Leonard Cohen's song "Suzanne," featuring the tomb of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys. Experience a spiritual landmark that has welcomed sailors and pilgrims since the 17th century.
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Stop 12
Stroll along the waterfront where 19th-century warehouses once bustled with industrial activity. Enjoy sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River from this transformed space that connects Montréal's past to its present.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
This tour starts at Place royale/Pointe-à-Callière Archeology Museum. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day(s) before
- 0% refund if cancelled 0–1 day(s) before
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $19.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
