4 fun days in Montreal and Quebec City!
- wanderer
- Jun 27, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 30, 2024
Montreal and Quebec City stand out as two of the most lively and historically significant cities in the province of Quebec, Canada. Both cities provide a distinct mix of culture, history, and contemporary attractions.
When my travel companion relocated to Canada, it inspired us to discover a new country in addition to the United States. Our explorations took us to many exciting places there, one such trip was to Montreal and Quebec City.
Below is a 4-day itinerary (which, once again, is not nearly sufficient) to discover the main attractions of these two varied destinations.
Day 1:
To maximize the limited time available during this trip, I arrived in Montreal in the morning. The flight from San Francisco to Montreal takes 5 hours and 25 minutes, with a 3-hour time difference.
I would not recommend this approach. It is preferable to arrive at a destination in the afternoon to allow for check-in and rest after a lengthy flight. Alternatively, arriving at the destination, particularly with a time difference, in the evening can help in adjusting to the new time zone.
If you wish to follow my lead, consider arranging an early check-in with your hotel. If this isn't possible, you can still leave your bags at the hotel and freshen up. Many hotels provide complimentary luggage storage services.
For this trip we chose the L'Appartement Hôtel, for its close proximity to the downtown and all the places we wanted to visit.
Begin your day with a visit to the renowned Jean Talon Market to indulge in fantastic coffee, breakfast, treats, and souvenirs!
Jean Talon Market is one of the largest and most famous public markets in Montreal, located in the Little Italy district. Established in 1933, it is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists.
It is not just a place to shop for groceries; it is an experience that captures the essence of Montreal's culinary diversity and vibrant community spirit. Whether you’re a foodie, a home cook, or just looking to enjoy a lively market atmosphere, Jean Talon Market is a must-visit destination in Montreal.
Spend the afternoon(or what is remaining of it) resting and getting ready to explore Montreal downtown. Take a stroll along the Mile End neighborhood in Montreal, known for its artistic community and trendy cafes.
End your day today by visiting Mount Royal, a vast park that provides sweeping views of the city, outdoor recreation options, and the iconic Mount Royal Cross.
Day 2:
Begin your day by visiting the Notre-Dame Basilica situated in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal), an area rich in history with its cobblestone streets, the Old Port, and a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
You can either stand in line for the tickets to the Basilica or reserve them online on their website:
The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal (Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal) is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture.
Named Perseverance and Temperance, the basilica's striking facade boasts twin towers that bear a resemblance to Notre-Dame de Paris. Elaborate carvings and statues adorn the exterior.
Inside the basilica, you will find exquisite stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork, and stunning vaulted ceilings painted in deep blue with golden stars. The ornate carvings and religious statues further enhance the grandeur of the interior.
If time permits do checkout the "AURA" light and sound show is a popular attraction that illuminates the basilica’s interior with a stunning display of lights synchronized to music. The show highlights the architectural beauty and artistic details of the basilica.
Following a leisurely exploration of the old district, you can choose to have lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the area, or you can opt to visit a personal favorite, LOV Vegan restaurant, situated at 464 McGill Street.
Following a well-deserved power nap, make your way to the stunning Montreal Botanical Gardens. Ensure to book your visit to the gardens ahead of time. During certain seasons, they host nighttime light shows that are definitely worth experiencing.
Day 3:
Today we are going to Quebec City. Quebec City is the capital of the province of Quebec and one of the oldest cities in North America. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, historic sites, and charming European feel.
You have the option to either drive or take the train, which is a convenient and quick mode of transportation.
You can see the schedule and book the tickets here:
We opted to catch the early morning train to maximize our time there. We chose to stay at Hotel Sainte-Anne, situated in the downtown area near various shops and cafes.
To get the most out of exploring the city, it's best to do so on foot. Start by enjoying a delightful brunch at one of the lovely restaurants before making your way to the renowned Petit Champlain District. This area is famous for its narrow streets, boutique shops, cozy cafes, and the iconic Breakneck Steps.
The Quartier Petit Champlain in Quebec City stands out as one of the oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods in North America. Nestled at the foot of Cap Diamant by the St. Lawrence River, this historic quarter is celebrated for its charming cobblestone pathways, charming stores, and lively ambiance.
While there, make sure to explore the stunning murals, such as the Fresque des Québécois, which depict the history of Quebec City and its inhabitants. These murals add to the artistic charm of the district.
Wrap up today's day with a sumptuous meal at Bistro L'Orygine and a stroll along the beautiful St. Lawrence river.
Day 4:
Today we head to the world famous, Château Frontenac, an iconic hotel and one of the most photographed buildings in the world, offering stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
Continuing on foot through the Plains of Abraham, a significant battlefield transformed into a lovely urban park ideal for picnics and outdoor activities, will lead you to the Citadelle of Quebec. This historic fortress, still in use as a military installation, provides guided tours and hosts ceremonial events.
Should you find yourself with some free time, make sure to visit local museums like the Musée de la Civilisation and the Morrin Centre to delve deeper into Quebec's fascinating history and culture.
Our thrilling 4-day adventure concludes as we board the evening train to head back to Montreal for some relaxation before catching the early morning flight home. If you have some extra time, there are plenty more historically significant attractions waiting to be explored in these locations.
