Montreal: Street Art Walking Tour with Local Artists

Summary

Wander Montreal’s mural-lined alleys with artists’ stories, bold colors and a city that feels alive in every brushstroke

You’ll walk Montreal’s Plateau-Mont-Royal with a local guide who knows every mural and alleyway. Spot massive works alongside tiny hidden gems, hear stories behind the art, and get personal tips for where to eat or grab a drink after. By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve seen a side of Montreal most people miss — maybe even feel a little more at home here.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely turned off Saint-Laurent when our guide, Alex, stopped us in front of this wall — honestly, I’d walked past it before and never noticed the tiny wheat-paste fox tucked under the drainpipe. He laughed when I squinted at it (“It’s easy to miss,” he said), then started telling us about how these little pieces sometimes outlast the big showy murals. The air smelled faintly like coffee from somewhere nearby, mixed with that damp concrete scent you only get after morning rain. There was a delivery guy singing softly in French as he cycled by. For a second, I felt like we were part of the neighborhood instead of just passing through.

The Plateau is covered in color — some of these murals are ten stories tall, wild shapes spilling over brick and old stone. We zigzagged through back lanes where Alex pointed out artists’ tags I’d never have recognized on my own (I tried to pronounce one and he grinned, “Close enough!”). He told us about waves of immigration shaping both the art and the city — it made me see Montreal differently, like each wall was another layer of its story. At one point we ducked into an alley that smelled like spray paint and fresh bagels (not kidding), and there was this silence except for someone’s radio playing old Leonard Cohen songs from an open window.

I didn’t expect to feel so connected to street art — or to laugh so much at Alex’s stories about rival artists sneaking out at night. The tour ended with him handing us a list scribbled with his favorite bars and restaurants (I still have it folded up in my wallet). You could stay wandering for hours after if you wanted; honestly, I kind of did. Something about those colors sticks with you longer than you think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Montreal street art and murals

• Walk back streets and alleys
• Learn about massive artwork
• Walk boulevard with immigrant murals

Top questions

Is this Montreal street art tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on this walking tour are wheelchair accessible.

How long is the Montreal mural arts walking tour?

The tour covers several streets and alleys in the Plateau; expect moderate walking but no exact duration is specified.

Are infants or small children allowed on this street art tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome.

Does the tour include recommendations for food or bars?

Yes, your guide will give you a personal list of recommended restaurants and bars in Montreal.

Will we learn about both local and international artists?

Yes, the tour covers works by both local Montreal artists and international creators.

Is there public transportation near the starting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby for easy access.

What’s included

Your day includes an inside look into Montreal’s street art scene led by a local guide who shares stories behind each mural. You’ll also get a personal list of recommended restaurants and bars to explore after your walk — plus plenty of time to wander on your own if you want more.