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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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Day Trip From Montreal to Quebec City

Day Trip Itinerary: Exploring Quebec City from Montreal

Embark on a captivating day trip from Montreal to the enchanting Quebec City, a destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Begin your journey in the heart of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking architecture and cobblestone streets. Wander through this historic district, exploring charming shops, cafes, and iconic landmarks that transport you back in time.

Next, visit the Citadelle of Quebec, a striking military fortress that offers guided tours and panoramic views of the city. Dive into Canada's military history while admiring the impressive architecture of this active military site. Nearby, the Plains of Abraham awaits with its sprawling green spaces and historical significance as the site of a crucial battle. Enjoy a leisurely walk, explore the museum, and immerse yourself in the area's rich past.

For a dose of natural wonder, head to Montmorency Falls, which rises higher than even Niagara Falls. Experience the falls' majestic beauty from various vantage points, including a suspended bridge offering breathtaking views. Finally, conclude your day in the Quartier Petit Champlain, a quaint neighborhood brimming with narrow streets, boutique shops, and delicious local cuisine. Here, you'll find the perfect blend of charm and culture to end your unforgettable day trip to Quebec City.


Recommended Activities

  • Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and fascinating history. Visitors can explore the fortified city's charming shops, cafes, and monuments.
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    Montmorency Falls

    Montmorency Falls is a spectacular natural attraction higher than Niagara Falls. It offers stunning views, hiking trails, and a suspended bridge over the falls for a breathtaking experience.
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    Quartier Petit Champlain

    Quartier Petit Champlain is a picturesque neighborhood filled with narrow streets, boutique shops, and local eateries. It's a perfect place to experience the charm and culture of Quebec City.
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    Citadelle of Quebec

    The Citadelle of Quebec is a historic military fortress that offers guided tours, stunning views of the city, and a glimpse into Canada's military history. It's an active military installation with rich historical significance.
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    Plains of Abraham

    The Plains of Abraham is a vast urban park known for its historical importance as the site of a pivotal battle in the Seven Years' War. It offers beautiful landscapes, walking paths, and a museum for a cultural and historical experience.
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Restaurants

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    Le Monastère des Augustines

    Le Monastère des Augustines

    Located in a historic monastery, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on wellness and local, organic ingredients.
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    Bistro Le SAM - Quebec City, QC

    Bistro Le SAM - Quebec City, QC

    Situated in the iconic Château Frontenac, this restaurant combines gourmet dining with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
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  • Le Hobbit

    A cozy bistro known for its eclectic decor and inventive French-inspired menu, offering a unique and charming ambiance.
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    Restaurant La Planque

    4.8
    $$$$

    Restaurant La Planque

    Nestled in the Limoilou district, this hidden gem features a menu that blends bold flavors with local ingredients in a warm, intimate setting.
    4.8
    $$$$
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    L'Atelier Tartares & Cocktails

    4.3
    $$$$

    L'Atelier Tartares & Cocktails

    Renowned for its creative tartares and extensive cocktail list, this modern eatery offers a trendy atmosphere with an emphasis on culinary innovation.
    4.3
    $$$$
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Hotels

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    Hôtel de Glace

    4.6

    Hôtel de Glace

    An extraordinary ice hotel that offers a truly unique experience with rooms and suites carved from ice and snow, open during the winter months.
    4.6
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    Auberge Saint-Antoine

    4.2

    Auberge Saint-Antoine

    A boutique hotel in Old Quebec that combines modern luxury with a rich historical ambiance, showcasing artifacts from the site's archaeological digs.
    4.2
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    Le Monastère des Augustines

    Le Monastère des Augustines

    Housed in a former monastery, this hotel and wellness retreat offers a peaceful stay with a focus on holistic health and heritage.
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    Hôtel 71

    4.6

    Hôtel 71

    A sleek and stylish hotel located in a historic building in the Old Port area, known for its artistic decor and exceptional service.
    4.6
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    Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

    4.6

    Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

    An iconic luxury hotel offering breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and a chance to experience staying in one of the most photographed hotels in the world.
    4.6
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Pink Martini featuring China Forbes

    Pink Martini featuring China Forbes

    The event will take place at Agora Port de Québec in Quebec.
    Map IconAgora Port de Québec in Quebec (0.54 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Sep 2025
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    Pink Martini - platine officiels

    Pink Martini - platine officiels

    The event will take place at Agora Port de Québec in Quebec.
    Map IconAgora Port de Québec in Quebec (0.54 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Sep 2025
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  • Event Icon

    The Australian Pink Floyd Show - platine officiels

    The Australian Pink Floyd Show - platine officiels

    The event will take place at Agora Port de Québec in Quebec.
    Map IconAgora Port de Québec in Quebec (0.54 mi)
    Calendar Icon29 Sep 2025
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    The Australian Pink Floy Show: Wish You Were Here 50th Anniversary

    The Australian Pink Floy Show: Wish You Were Here 50th Anniversary

    The event will take place at Agora Port de Québec in Quebec.
    Map IconAgora Port de Québec in Quebec (0.54 mi)
    Calendar Icon29 Sep 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    I booked a trip through TripAdvisor, highly recommend it! It was through Concord Tours. They pick you up at your hotel as long as its within a certain radius from downtown. Yo...

    Day trip from Montreal to Quebec City

    I booked a trip through TripAdvisor, highly recommend it! It was through Concord Tours. They pick you up at your hotel as long as its within a certain radius from downtown. Yo...

    /r/montreal
  • Reddit Icon

    Personally wouldnt recommend. You would likely end up spending your time in old Quebec which dont get me wrong is nice but to spend 5 hours driving youre better off spending m...

    3 nights in Montreal, day trip to Quebec City worth it

    Personally wouldnt recommend. You would likely end up spending your time in old Quebec which dont get me wrong is nice but to spend 5 hours driving youre better off spending m...

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    Quebec city is a daytrip only if you wake up at 5am, leave by 6 and arrive there around 9am., then leave by 8-9pm and arrive by midnight. I`ve done it. But, it is tiring espec...

    Day trips from Montreal?

    Quebec city is a daytrip only if you wake up at 5am, leave by 6 and arrive there around 9am., then leave by 8-9pm and arrive by midnight. I`ve done it. But, it is tiring espec...

    /r/montreal
  • Reddit Icon

    Native Montrealer here! Definitely need to be in Montreal on a Sunday for the Tam Tams on the mountain. It's a really amazing atmosphere every week in the summer. The city has...

    Weeklong trip to Montreal, should I include a day trip to Quebec City ...

    Native Montrealer here! Definitely need to be in Montreal on a Sunday for the Tam Tams on the mountain. It's a really amazing atmosphere every week in the summer. The city has...

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    It's a hell of a hike up to the old town if you walk, but we thought the train experience was very pleasant. We saw some hills and small towns that we wouldn't have seen other...

    Montreal to Quebec City - Train or Car? Things to See?

    It's a hell of a hike up to the old town if you walk, but we thought the train experience was very pleasant. We saw some hills and small towns that we wouldn't have seen other...

    /r/travel

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    This upbeat classic is perfect for a road trip, capturing the spirit of adventure and exploration.
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    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    This song embodies the joy and freedom of traveling, making it a road trip anthem.
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    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Its catchy and joyous energy will keep your spirits high as you explore new places.
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    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    A laid-back tune reminding travelers to enjoy the journey and take life one step at a time.
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  • Music Icon

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    A comforting and uplifting song that makes you appreciate the journey and where you come from.
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  • Music Icon

    Dirty South - City Of Dreams - Radio Edit

    Dirty South - City Of Dreams - Radio Edit

    This song captures the excitement and magic of visiting new and vibrant cities like Quebec City.
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  • Music Icon

    Djo - Chateau (Feel Alright)

    Djo - Chateau (Feel Alright)

    A perfect indie track with a dreamy feel, fitting for exploring historical and picturesque areas.
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  • Music Icon

    Camille - Le Festin

    Camille - Le Festin

    This French song embodies the charm and culture of Quebec, adding to the local experience.
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  • Music Icon

    The Temper Trap - Sweet Disposition

    The Temper Trap - Sweet Disposition

    This track's optimistic and euphoric vibe is ideal for capturing the memorable moments of your journey.
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  • Music Icon

    Coldplay - Viva La Vida

    Coldplay - Viva La Vida

    An anthemic song that inspires a feeling of grandeur and adventure while exploring new lands.
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