Montreal and Quebec City are two of the most interesting cities in Canada. This Montreal and Quebec City 4-day itinerary will guide you to getting the most out of both cities.
This is because they are both rich in experiences; legendary nightlife, tantalizing cuisines, sightseeing spots, a rich history, and legendary landmarks.
You might miss some amazing places if you don`t have a reference.
There are many activities to enjoy for the family, couples, or even if you are a solo traveler. Therefore, prepare for the time of your life in Montreal and Quebec City!
Montreal and Quebec City 4-Day Itinerary
A trip itinerary is essential, especially for first-time visitors. It will help you plan your trip better and guide you on how to have the best experience during your stay.
That is why we created this Montreal and Quebec City 4-day itinerary to guide you to the best spots.
This itinerary will take you to the most exciting and adventurous locations in Montreal and Quebec City, from hiking trails to art museums.
For the sake of convenience – You could rent a car to move around with. However, it is optional. Walking around Montreal is so easy, and it enables you to catch different sights better than you would in a car.
If you get tired, you can always board a metro or a public bus at very affordable rates. The same applies in Quebec City.
This itinerary is perfect for people traveling with their families, couples, and solo travelers.
Below, you will find tips on how you will have the most fun out of your four-day getaway in Montreal and Quebec City. Therefore, read on to glimpse all the good times you will have on your trip.
Day 1 in Montreal
You will do a lot of exploring and outdoor activities on this day.
Montreal has a lot to offer in terms of attraction sites and provides experiences befitting kids, adults, and even couples.
At the end of the day, you can unwind in a park or savor the town’s delicacies.
Family Option
Montreal is a perfect destination for a family getaway. The best way to begin your vacation is to have a fun-filled day full of adventures.
Some of the places you should add to your first day’s to-do list include the following.
10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Visit the Montreal Science Center
Located at the Old Port of Montreal, the Montreal Science Center is a perfect avenue for visitors of all ages to understand how Science and Technology affect our daily lives.
The center is an interactive setting that offers a hands-on experience to enable both adults and kids to explore how science and technology shape our lives.
There are rooms designed for kids and toddlers. The rooms have soft surfaces and are equipped for children to take part in pretend activities like fishing and grocery shopping.
Since Montreal is a bilingual town, signs at the center are in both English and French.
Usually – Two hours is enough time to explore the center, but you can hang around for longer if your schedule is not too tight.
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Explore the Pointe-a-Calliere Museum of Archaeology and History
The Point-a-Calliere is quite simply the birthplace of Montreal.
Here, you will learn about the history of the town with information worth several centuries. You will have the opportunity to explore the town through both temporary and permanent exhibitions.
The tour starts uniquely with a projected high-speed view of the town’s history. There are also fun activities in the museum that the whole family can take part in.
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Have Fun at The La Ronde Amusement Park
One of the largest amusement parks in Canada, La Ronde is a hub for games and entertainment.
It is the perfect way to end the day after absorbing so much knowledge about Montreal.
The park, which is located at Parc Jean-Drapeau near Downtown Montreal, boasts over 40 rides. If you are a white-knuckle fan, you will undoubtedly enjoy the ‘manitou.’
While the thrill rides will give you the chills, you can be sure to be giggling the whole way!
Singles/ Couples without Children Option
If you are looking to have a good time and create some memories either by yourself or with your significant other, then today is the day!
9:00 am – 11:00 am: Visit Old Montreal
Taking a walk along the streets of the historic neighborhood of Old Montreal is a great way to start the day.
Dating back to the 1600s, Old Montreal acts as a bridge between the past and the present. You can be sure to experience the best of both periods.
The oldest street in Montreal – Saint-Paul Street – is found here. It runs parallel to the old port waterfront.
There are also cafes, lively plazas, and about 15 boutiques to shop from as you stroll around. You can be sure to catch sights of the city hall and the Bonsecours market.
11:00 am – 1:00 pm: Tour the Notre-Dame Basilica
Notre Dame Basilica receives up to 11 million visitors annually, undoubtedly for its exquisite beauty and unique architecture.
The cathedral’s interior is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, sure to mesmerize you.
Its color-stained windows give it a rustic touch, which is complemented by the intricate wood carvings therein.
The self-guided tour will give you the time to absorb everything. If you still have some time, you can stay for AURA, a sound and light show experience.
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Take a Stroll at the Old Port of Montreal
The Old Port of Montreal, or the Vieux-port as it is also referred to, will provide you with a balance between ancient and modern leisure.
It stretches for over 1.2 miles with more than 50 activities to take part in.
You can stroll, cycle along the biking trails, rent a paddleboat, do some rollerblading, and catch a bite in one of the cafes and restaurants available.
If it is sunny enough, you can take a leisurely walk along the St. Lawrence River.
3:00 pm to 5:00 pm: Relax at the Clock Tower Beach
What better way to end the day than to kick back at a city beach watching the sunset with your partner? Clock Tower Beach is just the perfect place.
It is located at the base of the Clock Tower, which is a walking distance from Downtown Montreal. It comes with bright blue lounge chairs and soft sand to sink your bare feet in.
While swimming is not allowed, there are mist stations to cool you down if it is too hot.
The beach provides a perfect view of the St. Lawrence River, Old Montreal, and the Jacques-Cartier Bridge. You can relax here up to 7 pm or 9 pm, depending on the day of the week.
Day 2 in Montreal
The second day of exploring Montreal promises a plethora of activities, adventures, splendid views, and nature appreciation.
Family option
This day is bound to be memorable for the whole family. Pack up some lunch, dress warmly, and buckle up for an adventure!
9:00 am – 1:00 pm: Visit the Montreal Botanical Garden
Nature and fresh air are a perfect combination to start the day, and the Montreal Botanical Garden is rich in those.
The garden is extensive, with 75 acres of thematic outdoor gardens and up to 10 greenhouses.
Part of the Montreal Space for Life, the garden houses 22,000 plant species.
You will be allowed access to the greenhouses and learn about the different plants. The garden is a very educational avenue for both adults and children.
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm: Tour Biodome de Montreal
The Montreal biodome will enable you and your young ones to walk through replicas of ecosystems in America.
The dome boasts all five of America’s ecosystems under one roof.
You will experience the tropical rainforest, see the Gulf of St. Lawrence, watch the lynx in the Laurentian Maple Forest, and marvel at the penguins in the sub-polar regions.
The Biodome is a must-see destination that will offer you an experience like no other.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Have fun at Place Des Arts Junior Theatre
Located at Catherine Street in West Montreal, the Place Des Arts Junior Theater is the perfect place to spend the evening with the family.
The place offers a balanced combination of fun and discovery for the whole family.
You will enjoy a plethora of children’s shows which include plays. There are also lobby areas where you can relax as you down a cold soft drink.
Singles/ Couples without Children Option
Montreal is the perfect destination for solo travelers and couples. On day two, ensure you take advantage of the adventures and attraction sites in the town.
9:00 am – 1:00 pm: Hike Mont-Royal
Start the day energetically by hiking the gorgeous Mont-Royal. The 5.2 miles loop is perfect for solo nature trails and is bound to put you in a reflective mood.
The hike is pretty easy and will take you about two and a half hours to finish. Mont-Royal also allows for activities such as mountain biking, birding, and cross-country skiing.
From the peak, you will enjoy a scenic view of Montreal. The mountain is stunning during fall when the leaves are changing color.
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts/ MMFA
The MMFA is the biggest and oldest museum in Canada.
Founded in 1860 – The museum houses more than 45000 paintings, photographs, sculptures, and graphic arts. It is hellbent on showcasing both Canadian and international art from an intercultural perspective.
You will be guided through four interconnecting pavilions that have over 80 exhibition galleries to choose from.
The museum also has a movie theatre and auditorium if you are interested in art documentaries.
5:00 Pm – 6:00 Pm: Hang Out at The Ice Bar
Finish the day with either a solo date or a romantic date at the ice bar. It is a magnificent hanging joint to kick back and have lazy conversations.
The bar has a winter-themed cocktail menu. If you are a vodka person, the bar has got your back too. The ambiance is beautiful, with incredible lighting, candles, and fur.
Day 3 in Quebec City
Quebec City is only a three-hour drive from Montreal. It is rich in French-Canadian culture.
Here, you will enjoy different cuisines, nature, and fun-filled moments with your family, partner, or just yourself.
Family option
The day will be filled with outdoor activities that will be fun, educative, and relaxing for the family. So, buckle up and expect great adventures!
9:00 am to 12:00 pm: Visit the Aquarium Du Quebec
If you want to start the day doing something unique with the family, then the Aquarium du Quebec is the perfect place to start.
The aquarium houses more than 1000 animals from about 300 species.
There are mammals, amphibians, exotic fish, and reptiles in the establishment.
You can also be sure to spot polar bears, seals, and walruses in the outdoor park.
A 350,000-litre tank holds different animals from the Pacific Ocean.
During Summer – The whole family can take part in water games. After walking around the aquarium, you can relax and enjoy exhibit shows, which are done in both English and French.
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Have fun at RecreOFUN
RecreOFUN is a play center with an indoor playground to provide family entertainment at its best.
There are many activities that the family can take part in, including the BalleOFUN, the giant multi-level maze, and bungee trampolines.
The center is a clean, fun, and secure environment for small kids to explore and develop motor skills.
There is a snack bar for when you get hungry and gift cards to take home.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Go to the Erico- creative Chocolate shop and Chocolate Museum
Chocolates are universally loved.
Spend the evening at the Erico- chocolate shop and museum, and learn everything there is to know about chocolate, starting from its history.
There are two videos, one in English, and another in French, which show the chocolate-making process from the cocoa seed stage to the complete chocolate bars.
You can watch the live action through the transparent windows as the chocolatiers make chocolates.
The tour is self-guided, and you will have access to more than 200 artifacts about chocolate history.
Different chocolates are also laid out for you to sample. Additionally, you can enjoy chocolate pastries such as cookies, brownies, and cupcakes.
Couples/ Singles Without Kids Option
Quebec City has many activities for couples, solo travelers, and friend groups.
You are looking at a day full of adventure, learning new things, and beautiful spots for photos.
9:00 am – 12:00 pm: Go Ziplining at Parc De La Chute – Montmorency
Start the day on a high note with an adrenaline-filled activity. Ziplining at Parc De La Chute will give you the ultimate experience.
Enjoy a leisurely ride in a cable car and take in a spectacular view of the 272-foot-high waterfall into the St. Lawrence River.
Also, pass by the manoir and learn about the history of the place. Choose the panoramic circuit to enjoy the ride fully.
Purchase the entrance and cable car ticket in advance to avoid delays on the day of your adventure.
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm: View Art
The Musee National des beaux-arts du Quebec is an art museum located in Battlefield Park. The complex is made up of four buildings with varied art to view.
The magnificent collection of Quebec Art will enable you to experience architecture and nature in a refreshing way. The museum holds art history from the seventeenth Century to date.
3:00 pm- 5:00 pm: Shop at the Quartier Petit Champlain
What is a vacation without shopping?
It is incomplete. Spend the afternoon shopping away at the hottest shopping spot in Quebec City, the Quartier Petit Champlain.
Located in downtown Quebec City, this center is the oldest commercial street in North America.
It boasts more than 47 shops with jewelry, art galleries, fashion and accessories, souvenirs, and gifts. There are also restaurants where you can have amazing food during shopping breaks.
The street provides excellent selfie opportunities and photos for the Gram.
5:00 pm: Lay back at the Quebec City Ferry
Quebec City ferry is one of the city’s best-kept secrets.
It is very easy to miss if you don’t know about it. Located at the heart of Old Quebec City, the ferry is one of the best ways to view the Old Town.
It is the perfect way to end the adventurous day you have just had.
During Winter – The ferry acts as a literal icebreaker, paving the way for other ships. The sound of ice breaking under the ferry is musical to the ears.
The ride is twelve minutes long and one-way. You can take a lazy stroll back to the town via the red stairs.
Day 4: Quebec City
On your last day, make the most out of it by engaging in fantastic activities. Activate your adventurous spirit and saddle up for an amazing day!
Family Option
Have a memorable final day in Quebec City by participating in the amazing adventures the city offers. Remember to capture every beautiful moment to keep the memories alive.
10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Have fun at the Mega Parc Ephemere
The Mega Parc Ephemere is the ultimate indoor entertainment for the whole family.
The arena has 18 rides which include bumper cars, an ice rink, a roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, and arcades.
You would be delighted to learn that they charge less for adults who are accompanying kids for the rides.
Buying tickets online in advance is advisable to skip the long lines in the mall. In case you get hungry, there is a food court where you can grab a bite as you have fun.
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Visit the Village Vacances Valcartier Park
This park is the perfect place to spend the last day of your family vacation.
It usually holds events such as concerts, sports, and even on-site entertainment.
The outdoor waterpark dazzles visitors of all ages. It has 35 slides, two theme rivers, 100 water games, and a big wave pool.
3:00 pm to 5:00 pm: Go to Plains of Abraham
Plains of Abraham is a park that is central to Quebec City.
Alternatively, you can walk around and enjoy nature as the park has lots of green space.
You can even set up a picnic and bond with the family. It is recommendable to book ahead of time so that you secure your family a spot.
Couples/ Singles without Kids Option
Take advantage of the fantastic sceneries and cuisines that the city has to offer on your last day of vacation.
There is something for solo travelers and couples alike!
9:00 am – 12:00 pm: Visit the Jacques- Cartier National Park
While the park is quite steep, the drop-dead gorgeous views at the top are totally worth it. Furthermore, you can take any of the many trails as per your liking.
This park is the perfect place for a romantic walk and to make memories with your significant other. It also forms the perfect background for artistic photos.
There is a visitor center where you can make inquiries and receive different services. While there, you can also rent kayaks and have even more fun.
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Have lunch at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
This urban resort is quite the attraction site.
It has breathtaking contemporary décor with a touch of historical cachet. What is more, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Having a meal here will be one of the most luxurious experiences you will experience in the city.
The elegance is out of this world. In addition, you will catch spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River & architecture of the Old fortified city as you eat.
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Visit the Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral
A vacation in Quebec City is not complete without visiting the most extensively expanded structure in the history of Canada.
The Notre Dame de Quebec Basilica is the first church in the city to be built with stone.
It exudes grandeur and provides an ambiance like no other place.
When it is not crowded, you can sit and enjoy the tranquility. There are also paintings, etchings, archives, and sacred vessels to explore.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Old Quebec City Food & Drinks Tour
At the end of the day, you will probably be starving from all the activities.
There is no better way to end your vacation than taking a food and drinks tour and trying out different foods at Old Quebec City.
The 1.1 miles walk involves five food stops and eight different foods to sample. Drinks are also available.
The cuisines range from traditional to modern, as per your choice.
The food spots include:
- Chez Paillard
- Chez Boulay Comptoir Boreal
- BEClub Bistro
- Maison Livernois
- and La Buche
Drinks available in the location are wine, local gin, and craft mocktails.
You will also be able to take in sites such as the Chateau Frontenac and the legendary city hall as you walk and eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
To ensure you are well prepared, we have included some information that might further assist you during your trip.
Where to Stay when visiting Montreal and Quebec City?
There are many accommodation options in both Montreal and Quebec City. You can opt to book an Airbnb or stay in a hotel.
There are hotels befitting everyone’s budget.
The following is a list of luxurious hotels and the more affordable ones in both locations.
In Montreal
For Luxury accommodations, some of the top-rated hotels include:
- Hotel William grey
- Ritz-Carlton, Montreal
- Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton
- Hotel Nelligan
For more budget-friendly options, there are many options, such as:
- Intercontinental Montreal
- Boutique Notre-Dame
- Hilton Garden Inn Montreal Centre-Ville
In Quebec City
Luxury Accommodations
Budget-Friendly Options
How To Get Around Montreal and Quebec City?
If you want to move around conveniently, you can rent a car at the Trudeau International Airport (YUL) in Montreal.
You can also opt to walk from one place to another, as Montreal is a pretty walkable city.
If your feet grow weary, take the Montreal Metro or public bus. In Quebec City, use the metro and bus systems to get around if you don’t have a car.
What’s The Best Month to Visit Montreal and Quebec City?
The best months to visit Montreal is April during spring and October during the fall season. Summer is usually too crowded, and the temperatures too hot. The best time to go to Quebec City depends on the kind of experience you are looking for.
Nevertheless, you should consider visiting between June and August if you want to party with the crowds during summer festivals and experience the winter wonderland.
Final Thoughts
Montreal and Quebec City are perfect vacation destinations as they offer a fusion of outdoor beauty, art, educational and entertainment centers, chefs, and rich culture.
Both cities provide a unique combination of old and new, as well as various historical landmarks. This Montreal and Quebec City 4-day itinerary will guide you to experience the best of both places.
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