Irish Famine in Montreal Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Irish Famine in Montreal Walking Tour revisits one of the darkest chapters in the city’s history, also known as Black ’47. Starting in June, 1847, Montreal was overwhelmed by wave after wave of Irish refugees fleeing brutal oppression at home, including a massive famine triggered by a potato blight and colonial British landowners, many of whom forced tenants off their lands.
The walking tour provides in-depth history about the Irish Famine's impact on Montreal in 1847. Guests will visit key sites associated with this tragedy, including the Old Port and Lachine Canal, the Grey Nuns Motherhouse, the two locations of Montreal’s fever sheds and mass burial grounds, and the infamous Black Rock monument.
The Irish Famine in Montreal Walking Tour is sure to please those researching family roots, history buffs, and tourists and locals interested in this dark episode in the city’s history.
Available options
Irish Famine in Montreal Walking Tour
What's included
Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Visit the Old Port of Montreal and how it relates to the Irish Famine refugees.
2
Stop 2
One of Montreal's mass graves is located near the Lachine Canal. Your guide will show you it's exact location.
3
Stop 3
The last stop on the tour is the Black Rock monument. This is the gravesite of over 6,000 Irish Famine Refugees.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
We will meet you outside of Pointe-a-Calliere museum. The address is 350 Place Royale.
Important notes
Please check in with your guide before the tour begins.
About Montreal
Montreal is a vibrant, bilingual city that beautifully blends European charm with North American energy. Known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning architecture, it's a city where cobblestone streets meet modern skyscrapers, and world-class cuisine meets bustling festivals.
Top Attractions
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
The historic heart of Montreal, featuring cobblestone streets, 17th and 18th-century architecture, and charming cafes.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Mount Royal Park
A large urban park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, offering stunning views of the city and numerous recreational activities.
Nature
Half day
Free
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
One of Canada's most prominent museums, featuring an impressive collection of art from various periods and cultures.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free to $22 CAD (varies by exhibit)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Montreal-style Bagels
Smaller, sweeter, and denser than New York bagels, often topped with sesame seeds.
Breakfast/Snack
Vegetarian
Poutine
A dish consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Smoked Meat Sandwich
A sandwich made with smoked brisket, often served on rye bread with mustard.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking in Mount Royal Park
Skiing in Mont-Tremblant
Picnicking in Parc La Fontaine
Spa day at Bota Bota
Visiting the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Exploring Old Montreal
Swimming at Oka Beach
Skiing
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the busiest tourist season with warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities. Expect lively streets and numerous events.
20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5:00), Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (UTC-4:00) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Montreal is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
Getting there
By air
- Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
By train
Gare Centrale
By bus
Gare d'autocars de Montréal
Getting around
Public transport
Clean, efficient, and easy to use. The metro system is a convenient way to get around Montreal.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Plateau Mont-Royal
Downtown (Centre-Ville)
Mile End
Day trips
Quebec City
250 km (155 miles) • Full day
A charming city with a rich history, featuring cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a fortress overlooking the St. Lawrence River.
Mont-Tremblant
130 km (81 miles) • Full day to overnight
A popular resort town known for its ski slopes, hiking trails, and charming village.
Oka
50 km (31 miles) • Half day
A small town known for its beautiful beach on the shores of Lake of Two Mountains and its historic Oka Abbey.
Festivals
Montreal International Jazz Festival • Late June to early July
Just for Laughs • July
Montreal World Film Festival • Late August to early September
Pro tips
- Visit Mount Royal Park for a panoramic view of the city, especially at sunset.
- Explore the Underground City, a network of tunnels connecting shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Try local specialties like poutine, smoked meat, and Montreal-style bagels.
- Attend a Montreal Canadiens hockey game for a true local experience.
- Use the STM app for easy navigation of the metro and bus system.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
