summer road trip from montreal

The Ultimate Quebec Road Trip Itinerary for 2024: An Itinerary You NEED to Steal

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: November 8, 2023

Categories North America

Ready to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Quebec and all that it has to offer as you plan an ultra-rad Quebec road trip itinerary this summer and beyond?

Heck yeah, you are since Quebec is easily one of the most gorgeous provinces in Canada and is home to some of the most beautiful places to visit in the entire country.

However, with so much to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to planning some of the most scenic drives in Quebec .

Well, luckily for you, I’ve been hopping across the border and traveling throughout Quebec for well over 30 years now.

Yup, my family has a house on Lake Champlain – near the border in New York – and I’ve been loving Quebec since the ripe old age of six.

Therefore, I have the inside scoop on what to do, where to go, and what to see when planning the best ever Quebec road trip .

So, stop seeing Quebec like a tourist and start experiencing all that this next-level magical province has to offer as you enjoy some of the best-hidden gems in the region with this comprehensive guide to planning a road trip through Quebec .

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

14 Day Quebec Road Trip Itinerary Summary

• Day 1 – 2 – Montreal
• Day 3 – Eastern Townships
• Day 4 – 5 – Quebec City
• Day 6 – La Malbaie
• Day 7 – 8 – Tadoussac
• Day 9 – Rimouski
• Day 10 – Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
• Day 11 – 12 – Gaspé
• Day 13 – Percé
• Day 14 – Carleton-sur-mer

Alternative 21 Day Itinerary for Quebec

• Day 1 – 3 – Montreal
• Day 4 – 5 – Eastern Townships
• Day 6 – 8 – Quebec City
• Day 9 – 10 La Malbaie
• Day 11 – 13 – Tadoussac
• Day 14 – Rimouski
• Day 15 – 16 – Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
• Day 17 – 18 – Gaspé
• Day 19 – 20 – Percé
• Day 21 – Carleton-sur-mer

Best Quebec Road Trip itinerary

1. montreal.

The largest city in Quebec is also one of the hippest in Canada!

After all, Montreal is known throughout the country for its rich history, awesome festivals, and stellar takeaway food like poutine and bagels.

You’ll also find unique neighborhoods full of cafes and shops, as well as a thriving street art scene that everyone will enjoy.

As a result, this enchanting city makes for an ideal first stop on your epic Quebec road trip .

Trust me, you’ll find a long list of things to do in Montreal that keep you there for a week. But, if you’re looking for a taste of the city, I recommend adding at least two days in Montreal to your road trip itinerary.

Top Things to do in Montreal

• Notre Dame Basilica – Reminiscent of the grand Notre Dame in Paris, Montreal’s Notre Dame is a must-visit. The church is nearly 200 years old and is home to stunning stained-glass windows from Limoges. Be sure to look up so you can take in the vaulted ceiling with its 24 karat gold stars against a rich dark blue background. Plus, there’s a light and sound show called Aura too.
• Museum of Fine Arts – Montreal is filled with museums, but the best and largest is the Museum of Fine Arts. The museum is spread out over five pavilions and features a concert hall, a theater, and even hosts a variety of events. You’ll also find over 45,000 pieces of art within, that includes everything from paintings to sculptures.
• Street Art – If you’re looking for free things to do in Montreal then wander the streets in search of street art. You’ll find a heavy presence throughout the city, especially in Old Montreal, Chinatown, and in Griffintown. However, the best neighborhood to find stunning murals Plateau Mont-Royal. Here you’ll find the most iconic pieces that Montreal is known for. There’s even a guided tour that you can take that is known as the Official Mural Tour!
• Mont-Royal Park – Ascend over 500 wooden stairs that will take you to gorgeous lookouts, a stunning waterfall, and to some of the best views of Montreal. In fact, Mont-Royal Park is filled with a ton of amazing things to do and places to visit. After all, there are hiking trails, museums, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and more. You can also pop into Mount Royal Cottage, a historic building complete with a gift shop and nifty little café.

What to Eat in Montreal

• St-Viateur Bagel – One of the best places to grab wood-oven baked bagels in Montreal!
• La Banquise – This all-night diner serves Québécois grub, like one of the best poutines in the city.
• Île Flottante – For stylish French dishes with a n incredible presentation. Reserve a table and try their seasonal tasting menu.

Where to Stay in Montreal

• Hygie Hotel (budget) – This small pod hotel offers both dorm and private rooms. With a garden, terrace, and ideal location in the old port, Hygie Hotel is a great option for budget travelers.
• Best Western Plus Montreal Downtown (mid-range) – Located downtown and close to the top sights, this mid-range hotel has everything you need. It has contemporary rooms, a restaurant, and parking.
• Boxotel (luxury) – With studios, lofts, and apartments, this 4-star luxury hotel boasts a gym, hammam, rooftop terrace, and city views. Plus, it’s ideally located downtown.

Di stance and Travel Time from Montreal to Magog: 1.5 hours and 75 miles east of Montreal

2. Eastern Townships

Quebec’s Eastern Townships are known for their wineries, natural landscapes, and culinary scene.

This region is also situated within the southeastern portion of the province, between the St. Lawrence Lowlands and the US border.

Therefore, it features a collection of small towns and cities, like Magog, that make for a picturesque stop on your Quebec road trip itinerary.

Things to do in the Eastern Townships

• Le Cep d’Argent Vineyard – When in Quebec’s wine region a visit to one of the area’s top wineries is a must. And one of the best winegrowers in Magog is Le Cep d’Argent Vineyard. The winery offers incredible views of the fields and the Magog River. So, stop by for a tasting, a tour of the winery, and to enjoy some local wine at one of the first wineries in Quebec!
• Mont-Orford National Park – For outdoor enthusiasts this is one of Magog’s top attractions. After all, Mont-Orford National Park has a ton of fun things to do like hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and more! So, if you’re planning a road trip in Quebec in the fall then this park is a great stop to take in the fall colors.
• Spa Nordic Station – Add a few hours at the spa if you’re looking for some pampering during your Quebec road trip! See, The Spa Nordic Station offers guests a range of treatments and packages. You can enjoy Swedish massages, saunas, cold waterfalls, and even three-course meals!

What to Eat in Magog

• Alessa Trattoria – This modern Italian restaurant has the best pizza in town!
• Pinocchio – Perfect for French cuisine, specifically salmon tartar and a perfect crème brulee.
• Cantine Chez Paul Enr – Stop here for the best poutine in the area!

Where to Stay in Magog

• Auberge jeunesse Magog-Orford (budget) – Located downtown, this budget accommodation offers guests both private and dorm rooms. There’s also a café within this charming century-old building where you can enjoy complimentary breakfast.
• Hotel Verso – This new beach hotel is also downtown. Hotel Verso has a cool mid-century modern vibe, awesome views of Lake Memphremagog, and a Mediterranean bistro.

Distance and Travel Time from Magog to Quebec City: 2.5 hours and 157 miles

3. Quebec City

The top stop on any Quebec road trip is, of course, the capital, Quebec City!

Home to one of North America’s oldest settlements, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Europe! Yup, there really are so many reasons why this city, with its walled old town, a castle-like hotel, and a thriving food scene should be on everyone’s Canada road trip bucket list!

Things to do in Quebec City

• Explore Old Quebec – Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dig deep into the history of Quebec with a wander through the old town or with a walking tour . Walk the cobblestone streets, stroll the old stone walls, and check out the top sights like Place Royale, and the oldest stone church in North America. Then take the funicular up to the Dufferin Terrace and stroll the boardwalk.
• Observatoire de la Capitale – For some of the best views of Quebec City head to the tallest skyscraper in the city. From the 31st floor you’ll enjoy sweeping 360-degree views of the city, the St. Lawrence River, and even the Laurentian Mountains.
• Take a Food Tour – The city has begun to make its mark on the culinary scene in the province. A great way to experience Quebec City is on a food tour. There are a variety of food tours available that bring you to all the best places to eat and taste the best foods the city has to offer.
• Musée des Beaux-Arts – With a bunch of great museums, one of the best is the Beaux-Arts Museum. Set over four pavilions, within the Plains of Abraham, this art museum has over 38,000 pieces in its collection. You’ll find works from both Quebec and international artists too. Also, don’t forget to check out the rooftop garden and on-site art garden too.

What to Eat in Quebec City

• La Buche – Enjoy traditional Quebecois cuisine like tourtiere and crepes.
• Le Chic Shack – This casual restaurant is known for their gourmet burgers, but you’ll want to try their poutines and homemade sodas.
• La Planque – This lively spot brings Canadian fare to the next level! Try one of their seafood dishes.

Where to Stay in Quebec City

• Auberge Internationale de Québec (budget) – For budget accommodation, this hostel in old Quebec City is perfect! It has both dorm and private rooms as well as a terrace and café.
• Le Monastere des Augustines (mid-range) – If you’re looking for unique places to stay, try this converted 17th century monastery. Located just minutes from the old town, this hotel has cozy rooms, a restaurant, and yoga classes.
• Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac (luxury) – This dreamy castle-like hote l is a National Historic Site of Canada. It has luxurious rooms with views of the St. Lawrence River, a spa, restaurant, wine bar, and indoor pool.

Distance and Travel Time from Quebec City to La Malbaie: 1.75 hours and 88 miles

Pro Tip: Ensure your accommodation offers parking if you’re staying in the old town.

Plus, stop at Montmorency Falls on your way to La Malbaie. This waterfall is higher than Niagara Falls and is one of the top attractions in Quebec!

4. La Malbaie

Best known for the Charlevoix Meteorite Crater, La Malbaie is a great addition to any road trip in Quebec!

In fact, the road from Quebec City to La Malbaie is considered one of the most scenic drives in Canada!

So, any nature lovers embarking on this quebec road trip itinerary will love all of the parks and outdoor adventures to be found in the area.

However, there’s something for everyone here, from museums to a quaint downtown.

Things to do in La Malbaie

• Hautes‑Gorges-de-la-Rivière‑Malbaie National Park – This incredible regional park is part of the UNESCO Charlevoix biosphere reserve. The Malbaie River runs through a towering gorge and is home to 10 hiking trails and multiple waterfalls. The most popular hike is Acropole des Draveurs Trail. Plus, you can also take a guided boat tour through the gorge.
• Garden of the Four Winds – This privately owned garden is the largest of its kind in Canada. Covering 20 acres, there are around 25 different gardens including rock, sculpture, and Japanese. This whimsical attraction also has waterfalls, an enchanted tower, and sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River.
• Au P’tit Bonheur Art Gallery – Set in a lovely home, this large art gallery showcases the works of over 30 painters and sculptors from Quebec and across Canada. Throughout the exhibit space you’ll even find the owner’s collection of antique glass.

What to Eat in La Malbaie

• Chez Truchon – Auberge & Bistro – This lovely inn and French bistro is set within a century home. Top dishes are the foie gras and filet mignon.
• Maison du Bootlegger – If you’re looking for dinner and a show then head to this museum and restaurant. Enjoy a guided tour of the 1860s Speakeasy with hidden passageways and doors. And then for dinner you’ll want to order the steak!

Where to Stay in La Malbaie

• Auberge de Jeunesse La Malbaie (budget) – This hostel is minutes from downtown and offers a range of rooms. Some of the rooms even have water views!
• Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu ( luxury) – This luxurious 1929 chateau hote l has awesome views of the St. Lawrence River, and three restaurants.

Distance and Travel Time from La Malbaie to Tadoussac: 1 hour and 46 miles

Pro Tip: On your way to Tadoussac, add stops at Fromagerie Saint-Fidele to try local cheeses and to check out the observation deck in Saint-Siméon. Also take the ferry from Baie Sainte-Catherine to Tadoussac since it’s free and runs year-round.

5. Tadoussac

The charming village of Tadoussac is a popular destination for whale watching and outdoor adventures.

It’s also located at the edge of the Saguenay Fjord and the St. Lawrence River and is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful bays in the world!

You’ll also find rich history here since this village was founded in 1600 and is now one of the oldest settlements in North America – making it an essential part of any Quebec road trip itinerary.

Things to do in Tadoussac

• Go Whale Watching – One of the bucket list things to do in Quebec is go whale watching ! And Tadoussac is one of the best places in the Côte-Nord region to see a wide variety of whales. The best time to take a tour is from May to October. During this time, you can see humpback whales, blue whales, and more! However, you can also see beluga whales here throughout the year.
• Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre – In this museum you’ll learn all about the whales that visit the area through videos, exhibits, and even whale song! There’s also an impressive 43-foot-long sperm whale skeleton within their collection!
• Saguenay Fjords National Park – This scenic park is a must for outdoor adventurers! Park activities include sea kayaking, cycling, and hiking. There are also a dozen different hiking trails within the park, one of which, Le Fjord trail, even goes right into Tadoussac. The top two trails for epic views though are Notre Dame du Saguenay Statue Trail and Giant’s Viewpoint via River Path.

What to Eat in Tadoussac

• Mathilde Express – If you’re looking for great take out this spot is attached to the Chez Mathilde Bistro. A go-to dish is their fish and chips.
• Café Bohème – This charming café serves French-inspired food that includes a variety of vegan dishes. A favorite is their savory crepe.
• Le William – This fine dining restaurant is located in Hotel Tadoussac and offers regional cuisine and waterside views. One of the most popular menu items is the halibut.

Where to Stay in Tadoussac

• Hôtel Tadoussac – This iconic hotel dates to 1864 and is conveniently located close to everything. It has a spa, outdoor pool, restaurant, and rooms with awesome views of the water.
• Canopee Lit – Just outside of town you’ll find one of the coolest places to stay in Quebec. This unique resort lets you sleep among the trees in their treetop cabins and spheres.

Distance and Travel Time from Tadoussac to Rimouski: 2 hours and 40 minutes and 96 miles

Pro Tip: Continue driving along Quebec Route 132 to Forestville. From there you’ll take the Rimouski – Forestville Ferry. It runs a few times a day and takes an hour to cross.

6. Rimouski

Back on the southern banks of the St. Lawrence River, you’ll find yourself driving along one of the most scenic roads in Quebec, Route 132.

The Highway takes you along the coast and wraps around the Gaspe Peninsula. In particular, Rimouski is located in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region and is a city known for its epic parks, vibrant downtown, and seaside boardwalk.

Things to do in Rimouski

• Hell’s Gate Canyon – This awesome adventure park is home to the highest suspension bridge in Quebec! Towering over 200 feet, the bridge crosses the canyon here for epic views of the surroundings area! Canyon des Portes de L’enfer, as it’s called in French, is also home to a network of hiking trails, waterfalls, and a life-sized maze.
• Bic National Park – One of the best parks in the region, especially for wildlife viewing, is Bic National Park. Encompassing 8,200-acres, the park stretches along the shores of the St. Lawrence and offers visitors plenty of opportunities for sea kayaking and hiking. Plus, it’s a popular spot to see seals and seabirds. Don’t forget to check out the Raoul-Roy Lookout too!
• Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic Site – Learn about many of the events that took place in the area at this historic site. The site is home to the Onondaga, which is the first publicly accessible submarine in Canada, as well as the Empress of Ireland Museum. The museum also tells the story of the steamship and its wreck off the coast. It’s also where you’ll find the Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse, which is the second tallest in Canada. Be sure to take the tour that brings you up to the top for an amazing view!

What to Eat in Rimouski

• Le Crêpe Chignon – If you’re looking for light fare in a casual space then head to this café and order their beloved crepes.
• La Réserve Bistro – This fine dining French bistro has a seasonal menu of regional fare. One of the best dishes is their braised beef.

Where to Stay in Rimouski

• Motel Lyse (budget) – Located just outside of downtown Rimouski, this budget mote l has free parking and comfortable rooms.
• Hotel Le Saint Germain (mid-range) – This mid-range hotel is located downtown, has modern rooms, free breakfast and parking. Many rooms have awesome water views and kitchenettes too.

Distance and Travel Time from Rimouski to Sainte-Anne-des-Monts: 2 hours and 113 miles

7. Sainte-Anne-des-Monts

Continuing along Quebec Route 132, you’ll arrive at another small city, Sainte-Anne-des-Monts. The city sits along the St. Lawrence River but is backed by the Chic-Choc Mountains.

It’s also known as the gateway to the Gaspésie National Park, making it a favorite destination in the Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine region for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers.

However, you’ll find a scenic boardwalk, museum, and a microbrewery here too as you continue with your Canada road trip itinerary.

Things to do in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts

• Exploramer – Located at the dock, this museum is a fun spot for kids and adults alike! So, step inside to learn all about the aquatic species that call the St. Lawrence River home. In total, there are over 20 tanks with fish and other marine creatures inside them, plus touch pools and even tasting activities. Plus, if you’re looking to get out on the water, they run several sea excursions that allow you to explore the ecosystem of the St. Lawrence.
• Gaspésie National Park – A top destination year-round, Gaspésie National Park is home to the McGerrigle and Chic-Chocs mountains. So, in the summer, activities include hiking, canoeing, fishing, and camping. In the winter, you can enjoy snowshoeing and skiing. Additionally, Mont Jacques-Cartier sits within the park and is the second highest peak in Quebec. The park is also home to the last remaining herd of caribou found south of the St. Lawrence.
• Monique and Gisèle Benoit Center – The center is a great place to learn about the plant and animal life that calls the area home. Thanks to these well-known naturalists, the center is filled with displays that showcase their paintings. There’s also a spot to view documentaries as well as a gift shop. Be advised that it is open seasonally from June to October and admission is free.

What to Eat in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts

• Marie 4 poches – If you’re looking for something light or quick takeaway for your Quebec road trip, this adorable little bakery is the perfect stop. They have an assortment of baked goods, and sandwiches for you to enjoy.
• La Broue dans l’Toupet – Located within the Hotel & Cie, this restaurant is known for amazing seafood, like their crispy calamari.
• Auberge Chateau Lamontagne – This hotel has a lovely French gastropub that sits high atop a hill overlooking the water. You can’t go wrong with one of their seafood menu items that can be paired with a glass of wine.

Where to Stay in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts

• Gîte La P’tite Falaise (budget) – Located right downtown, this budget-friendly bed and breakfast is within walking distance of many top sights and restaurants. It also has cozy rooms, free parking, and bicycles to rent.
• Auberge Chateau Lamontagne – Perched on a hill, with sweeping views of the St. Lawrence, this heritage hotel dates to 1873. Along with a restaurant, it has both rooms and chalets.

Distance and Travel Time from Sainte-Anne-des-Monts to Gaspé: 2.5 hours and 125 miles

Pro Tip: Make a Quebec road trip itinerary stop at Pointe-à-la-Renommée Lighthouse on your way to Gaspé.

At this historic site you’ll find sweeping coastal views. It’s also just two hours from Sainte-Anne-des-Monts but the road leading up to it can be rough.

8. Gaspé

A necessary addition to any Quebec road trip itinerary is Gaspé! This incredible city sits at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula and was even noted by National Geographic Traveler as one of the top places to visit in Canada!

And well before Jacques Cartier came ashore in Gaspé Bay, the indigenous Mi’kmaq people called the area gespeg, which means ‘land’s end.’

Therefore, Gaspé is known for its incredible landscapes and for being the ‘Birthplace of Canada’.

Things to do in Gaspé

• Forillon National Park – One of the best parks in Quebec can be found in Gaspé. In fact, Forillon National Park stretches out into the Gulf of the St. Lawrence and is filled with both historic sites and outdoor activities. A couple of the heritage sites include the Fort Peninsula and the Cap Gaspé Lighthouse. Along with scenic lookouts and many bird/whale watching sites, there are nearly a dozen hiking trails tucked away inside.
• Gaspesie Museum – This museum shares with visitors the history and culture of the Gaspé Peninsula. As a result, you’ll find an array of exhibits that showcase the area’s people, places, and stories. And one of the newest attractions is an immersive exhibit that brings nearly 400 million years of history to life! From the museum you can also walk along the boardwalk to get to the next sight!
• Birthplace of Canada – Set along the boardwalk that hugs the shore is one of the most popular monuments in Gaspé. Here, in 1534, Jacques Cartier put up a cross that would go on to earn Gaspé its nickname of “Birthplace of Canada.” Now, a replica stands in its place. The historic site is also home to a variety of activities, like costumed historical figures sharing stories and other free events to add to your Quebec road trip itinerary.

What to Eat in Gaspé

• Casse-croute Jo-Ann – A fun seasonal roadside food stand that is said to have the best poutine in the area. However, their lobster roll is a safe bet too!
• Brise Bise – This colorful restaurant serves up comfort food and live music. Be sure to try their shrimp poutine.
• Cafe Des Artistes – Go for the coffee, views, and cool aesthetic! Stay for the delicious breakfast options and the smoked salmon bagel!

Where to Stay in Gaspé

• Motel Le Noroît – Located on the water at the edge of Forillon National Park, this budget motel is a great find for cheap accommodation in an awesome location.
• Hôtel Plante – Set within Gaspé, this mid-range hotel has renovated rooms and an indoor pool. Because of its hillside location you’ll get views of Gaspé Bay.
• Chalets du Bout du Monde – These adorable cottages are rustic-chic with incredible water views. Each cottage also has a kitchen, deck, and barbeque.

D istance and Travel Time from Gaspé to Percé: 45 minutes and 39 miles

9. Percé

This charming fishing village is known for two big natural features! The first is Perce Rock, a limestone rock formation towering high above the sea just offshore.

And the second is Bonaventure Island, which is a hotspot for birders. Beyond all that, Perce is filled with quaint shops, cafes, and colorful buildings just waiting to be explored as part of any Quebec road trip itinerary.

Things to do in Percé

• Bonaventure Island – A bucket list item for any road trip in Quebec is a tour of this incredible island! Hop aboard a morning boat tour that takes you around Percé Rock and then stops at the island. This island is also famous for being home to the largest colony of gannets in North America. Along with these must-see birds, the island has four scenic hiking trails, century old homes, and other wildlife off its shores like whales and seals.
• Percé UNESCO Global Geopark – For a host of fun activities and during which you can learn about the region’s geological significance visit Percé Geopark. Here, you’ll find interactive exhibits, a zipline, and an epic viewing platform. It’s a short, thirty-minute, hike to the glass platform that stretches out over the cliff. Standing over 650 feet above sea level, you can see the famous Percé Rock and other key sights too.
• Percé Boardwalk – Relax and soak in the beautiful sea views you get with a stroll along the Percé boardwalk. Winding its way along the shore, the boardwalk offers views of the Percé Rock and give you beach access to lounge chairs where you can sit and unwind. Plus, there’s an observation tower off the boardwalk for sweet panoramic views.

What to Eat in Percé

• Nath & Compagnie – If you’re looking for unique places to eat in Percé, then you’ll love this quaint library café. Surrounded by books, you can enjoy a range of light fare, desserts, and pastries.
• Pub Pit Caribou – This rustis pub has all the charm and spunk that you’d expect in a fishing village! Go for their impressive beer selection and smoked salmon and stay for the live entertainment.
• Buvette Thérèse – This is the best restaurant in town for fish and chips. Or, you can opt for one of their poutine varieties instead if you need to refuel after your Quebec road trip itinerary.

Where to Stay in Percé

• Riotel Percé (budget) – With views of the water, this beachfront hotel is close to many of the sights and has contemporary rooms and a restaurant.
• Auberge Au Fil des Saisons – This is another budget option nestled inside a Victorian bed and breakfast . It’s also within walking distance to all the attractions and serves a delicious breakfast.

Distance and Travel Time from Percé to Carleton-sur-mer: 2.5 hours and 124 miles

10. Carleton-sur-Mer

The last stop on your Quebec road trip itinerary is a charming town on the southern shores of the Gaspé Peninsula.

Wedged between mountains and the sea, Carleton-sur-Mer provides visitors with everything from outdoor activities to relaxing time spent wandering boardwalks and learning about the area’s intriguing history and culture.

Things to do in Carleton-sur-Mer

• Mont-Saint-Joseph – The number one thing to do in Carleton-sur-Mer is to visit the lookout at Mont-Saint-Joseph! This regional park offers a ton of outdoor adventures including rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. You can even sleep on the mountain in a geodome! In fact, the lookout sits over 1800 feet above sea level. Here, you’ll find a long boardwalk and large terrace overlooking Chaleur Bay. Plus, on a clear day you can see all the way out to the Acadian coast of New Brunswick.
• Carleton-sur-Mer Lighthouse – At the end of a narrow peninsula sits a replica of the original 1900s lighthouse which stood there. The area, which is called Pointe Tracadigache, is the perfect spot to watch the sunset after a beautiful Quebec road trip itinerary.

What to Eat in Carleton-sur-Mer

• Boulangerie Pâtisserie La Mie Véritable – For a light meal or sweet desserts try this adorable café. A popular menu item is their ham and brie panini.
• Le Naufrageur – Microbrasserie – If you’re looking for a lively dinner with a few drinks, try this microbrewery. Plus, everyone raves about their pizza!

Where to Stay in Carleton-sur-Mer

• Motel Leblanc (budget) – This budget motel offers simple rooms right across from the water and is 5 minutes outside of town.
• Manoir Belle Plage (mid-range) – On the eastern edge of town you’ll find this l ovely beach hote l that has a restaurant. Rooms come with either mountain or ocean views too.

Map of the Best Ever Quebec Road Trip Itinerary

Additional Canada Resources You’ll Love

• Best Provinces to Live in Canada
• Best Places to Live in Canada
• Pros and Cons of Living in Canada
• Best Brunch in Montreal

There you have it! That just about wraps up this epic Quebec road trip itinerary!

Tell me, did your picks for the best scenic drives in quebec make the post if not then let me know in the comments below., and if you found this post useful, don’t forget to join our email list before pinning this post now so that you can read it again later..

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Epic Summer Road Trips from Montreal

Steeped in history and infused with French culture, it's now wonder why Montreal  is one of the most popular destinations in Canada. A quick drive in Montreal this summer can be a thrilling experience, but there are also plenty of sightseeing attractions and fun things to discover within a couple of hours of the city to visit. To help you organize and plan your travel itinerary, we at VroomVroomVroom have rounded up great Montreal summer road trips below.

Saint-Donat

In terms of nature and outdoor activities, this charming little town has numerous things to offer. You can relax and swim in the lake, go fishing, rent a boat, or go on a hike with picturesque views. Best of all, the accommodation options are vast.

Directions: Follow Route Transcanadienne/Autoroute 15 N to QC-329 N in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts. Take exit 89 from Route Transcanadienne/Autoroute 15 N. Continue on QC-329 N to your destination in Saint-Donat.

Highlights:

• Parc Des Pionniers: Situated in the heart of the village of Saint-Donat, this park can be found on the shore of Lake Archambault which is very popular with locals and favored by tourists. Open to all with no cost - the area is a great place for relaxation.
• Saint-Donat snowshoeing trails: Did you know that the Saint-Donat region is also famous for its 175 kilometers of cross-country skiing and hiking trails? The perfect starting point for those who prefer groomed trails is the Pioneer Park.

The capital of Canada borders the city of Gatineau in Quebec. Ottawa fits well as another perfect summer getaway because it's pretty close to the city, and there's just enough to do and visit so that you won't get bored on your stay here.

Directions: Follow Route Transcanadienne O/Autoroute 40 Oand Trans-Canada Hwy/ON-417 W to Nicholas Stin Ottawa. Take exit 118 from Trans-Canada Hwy/ON-417 W.

• Experience the Rideau Canal: A visit to the historic Rideau Canal is a must! During summer, many people walk, stroll, bike, or ride on the walkways that line the famous canal.
• Visit the Beautiful Parliament Hill: Open to the public for guided tours that look through the interior of the historical complex as well as the lush gardens and monuments covering the grounds, the daily performances of Changing of the Guard happen at Parliament Hill throughout the summer is another must.
• Celebrate Summer festivals: Ottawa isn't just about museums, art and culture, it is also home to some incredible summer festivals. So make sure to sprinkle some magic on your summer with some engaging summer celebrations and events.

Only a 30-minute drive from Ottawa, Wakefield is one of many villages of the Municipality La Pêche, with the village centre on the western shore of the Gatineau River. Top summer recreational activities in and around the village include boating, hiking, horseback riding, golfing, biking, cycling, canoeing and kayaking. The community of Wakefield also has a thriving arts scene that attracts enthusiast looking for a diverse experience.

Travel Time: 2hrs 30mins

Directions: Follow Route Transcanadienne O/Autoroute 40 O, Trans-Canada Hwy/ON-417 W and Autoroute 5 Nto Valley Dr in La Pêche. Take exit 28 from Autoroute 5 N.

• Go bunjee jumping: Did you know that people from all across Canada and the USA travel to Wakefield just to experience the excitement of the Great Canadian Bungee jump? Founded in 1992, the Great Canadian Bungee company continues to offer thrill seekers one of the tallest jumps in North America.
• Stop at the Wakefield Covered Bridge: Of course, no trip in Wakefield is complete without a picture at the century-old iconic red covered bridge. Take note that you can also go underneath the bridge on the Gatineau River for some scenic photo-ops.
• Enjoy Mont Cascades Waterpark: Situated across the river from Wakfield, the amazing Mont Cascades Waterpark provides fun for the whole family. Take a break and discover why the water rides at Mont Cascades Resort are deemed as the best in the world.

Situated just north of Gatineau in Quebec and about 10 km north of Ottawa, they say no trip to Chelsea is ever complete without tasting some generous scoops of ice cream at La Cigale, so make sure to put this in your itinerary.

Travel Time: 2hrs 30 minutes

Directions: Take Route Transcanadienne O/Autoroute 40 Oand Trans-Canada Hwy/ON-417 W to Chemin Old Chelsea in Chelsea. Take exit 12 from Autoroute 5 N.

• Spend a day exploring Lac Meech: Chelsea's proximity to one of the most beautiful lakes in Gatineau and the Camp Fortune grounds makes it the perfect place to enjoy a day at one of their beaches in the summer.
• Carbide Wilson Ruins: Just around Lac Meech, find some time to explore the fantastic and well-preserved Carbide Willson Ruins (a.k.a the Gatineau Park ruins, or The Mill).
• Camp Fortune Trail: There are multiple activities for all seasons in Camp Fortune such as zip lining and mountain biking during the summer months.

Mont-Tremblant

Mont-Tremblant is not only a popular winter destination, it's equally as fun and exciting during the summer! There are numerous activities you can do in Mont-Tremblant perfect for the whole family, such as cruising, nature hiking, horseback riding, karting, cycling and biking.

Travel Time: 1hr 30mins

Directions: Take Autoroute 15 N to Route Transcanadienne/QC-117 N in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts.

• Experience the Village: If you enjoy wonderful views, you won't want to miss Mont-Tremblant, which has a breathtaking pedestrian village with vast vistas. Make sure to stroll around the European-style cobblestone streets. And that's not all. The village is even more alive during the International Blues Festival, with more than 100 free shows.
• Enjoy the great outdoors: With 11 hiking trails, beginners and experienced hikers will enjoy climbing the highest peak in the Laurentians. If you dig flying over rolling mountains and lush valleys, don't miss an aerial adventure with Ziptrek Ecotours.
• Biking: The village of Mont-Tremblant also provides wonderful scenery and rides guaranteed to delight or test riders of all levels.

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15 Amazing Weekend Trips from Montreal

From classy staycations in Ottawa and Quebec City, to country retreats, these are the best weekend getaways from Montreal.

Montreal is a lovely city. It combines the healthy robustness of the outdoorsy Canadian spirit with the je nais se quoi of the French heritage that has given Eastern Canada a distinctly European flavour.

You could easily spend weeks exploring Montreal itself. It’s a favourite city of mine, especially in the winter . But it’s also a great base for heading off to explore some of the wonderful towns, villages, and countryside surrounding the city. And let’s face it, sometimes it’s nice to escape the hustle and hubbub of the urban environment for the quiet of the country or, at least, the sights and sounds of a new city!

On weekend trips from Montreal, you can experience some quintessentially Canadian scenery, spot wildlife in beautiful forests, paddle or swim in enchanting lakes and stroll through the countryside. You can also experience the best of the region’s fresh produce, sip wine on chateaux terraces, and reinvigorate yourself with a day at a spa.

So let’s load up the car, grab a coffee and head off to discover some of the best weekend trips from Montreal.

Planning your trip to Montreal? Here are a few quick highlights:

The weather in the Montreal region

The Montreal region of Eastern Canada has a continental climate with four very distinct seasons. Summers are long and warm, with temperatures hovering in the high twenties and sometimes heating up into the low thirties. Cold fronts can occasionally bring dry, crisp weather in early and late summer while spring and autumn bring sudden temperature changes. They can really take you by surprise!

Late summer heat waves known as “Indian Summers” can keep the temperatures relatively high, but by November you can expect snow and freezing temperatures. January is usually considered to be the cloudiest month. I’d recommend being prepared for lots of changeable weather while you’re exploring Montreal and the surrounding areas.

If you’re planning to spend some time in Montreal, don’t miss my detailed guides to the best luxury and boutique hotels in Montreal , 21 amazing things to do in Montreal in winter and the best foods to eat in Montreal .

15 Amazing Weekend Trips From Montreal

Prince edward county.

Not to be confused with Prince Edward Island , Prince Edward County is famous for its wine and produce. It’s a foodie’s paradise. Located four hours southwest of Montreal, this beautiful little peninsula/island on the northern edge of Lake Ontario is loaded with charming little towns, secluded beaches and, best of all, lots of wineries.

You can follow a self-guided wine route around the county, with stops at some of the best vineyards and restaurants.

Mont Tremblant

Set amid the Laurentian Mountains, northwest of Montreal, Mont-Tremblant is a year-round ski resort. The village nestles on the shores of Lake Tremblant and is actually four awesome locations rolled into one. There’s a super cool ski resort, a mountain with fantastic hiking, a pedestrianised downtown, and a national park.

North of the town centre, the expansive Mont-Tremblant National Park has plenty of forested hiking trails, plus lakes for canoeing, swimming, and fishing. 

Eastern Townships

Situated an hour’s drive southeast of Montreal along the US/Canada border, the Eastern Townships area is close to the US states of Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Down here you’ll find a whole bunch of small towns connected by country roads and rural lanes. 

This area is really popular with cyclists, so if you love being on two wheels, you’ll enjoy this weekend break! You can set off on your bikes from any one of the little towns. Ulverton, Valcourt, Saint-François-Xavier-de-Brompton or Roxby Pond are all lovely. Just pack a picnic and a sense of adventure!

There are festivals galore, vineyards all over the place, golf courses, and plenty of tiny country churches to explore. Check out the Eastern Townships website for more information about this varied and beautiful locality. Alternatively, you could book this day trip from Montreal to explore the region.

This little town, tucked away beside the Coaticook River is a hidden gem that’s technically part of the Eastern Townships. However, because it is so lovely I think it deserves an entry of its own! Coaticook is a great weekend getaway from Montreal for foodies because it is huge for dairy production. So as you’d expect, dairy products such as chocolate, milk and cheese are in plentiful supply here.

You can indulge in local delicacies such as traditional poutine (a Canadian favourite and absolutely yummy!) and maple syrup harvested from the nearby forests. The streets of Coaticook are quiet and charming and the locals are an easy-going bunch who’ll make you feel at home!

For a bit of adventure, wander out to the Parc de la Gorge where there’s a suspended bridge over the Coaticook Gorge. After dark, the Forest Limina trail is a nice way to spend an evening. This illuminated pathway is changed annually and takes you on a glittering nocturnal journey through the forest. 

By the way, the name Coaticook derives from the indigenous Abenaki word “koatikeku” which means “where the river is bordered by white pines.” It really is the perfect description!

Quebec City

Have you ever dreamed of strolling arm-in-arm through a French city with your partner? Well, Quebec City might just be the perfect place to go. Founded in 1608 by the French explorer Samuel de Champlain, the fortified centre of Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city’s skyline is dominated by the spectacular Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , which overlooks the St Lawrence River as it winds through the city. The cobbled streets might remind you of trips to Paris, especially as you sit at a local cafe with a delicious pastry and a cafe au lait. If you want a little tip, I’d recommend stopping for a coffee at La Maison Smith at the Place Royale , the historic square beside the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires.

I love Canada’s capital city! Situated at the confluence of three rivers, Ottawa is a cosmopolitan mixture of cultures and history set against a backdrop of spectacular natural landscapes. The city that you can discover today melds its historical roots (the area was first settled by Europeans in 1826) with some of Canada’s most high-tech urban designs.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed  Rideau Canal is the centrepiece of downtown Ottawa and is a summer playground of hiking trails, farmer’s markets, historic buildings, and outside eateries. In winter, the canal transforms into an icy playground that includes the world’s longest naturally-frozen skating rink.

Canada’s rich urban and rural history is celebrated in seven of the country’s national museums. The story of everyday Canadian life can be experienced in the city’s Byward, Chinatown, and Little Italy districts. There are hundreds of kilometres of walkable urban trails. It’s nice and easy to use Ottawa as a base for your biking and hiking adventures. And when you’re done with adventure, Ottawa is crammed with great dining and entertainment options!

If you fancy staying a night or two in the city, check out my pick of the best hotels in Ottawa .

Oka National Park

There are plenty of short trips from Montreal and a visit to Oka National Park is one of my favourites. It’s a great pick whether you’re looking for a day excursion from the city or an overnight adventure in the wilderness. Covering just under 24 square kilometres, the park includes beaches and marshlands along the shores of Lac des Deux Montagnes .

The village of Oka is a great base for exploring the park. In the summer the village’s long beachfront attracts crowds of Montreal locals at weekends. In winter, when the lake freezes, you can drive across an ice bridge (ie across the frozen lake) to the town of Hudson. What a thrill!

Gatineau Park

This superb national park is the largest wild space in the Montreal region. Gatineau Park is the second most-visited park in Canada and has a diverse ecosystem that encompasses lakes, caverns and old-growth forests. 

One of the best walks in the park is the trail to Pink Lake , a tiny shimmering lake nestled in a frame of evergreen and deciduous trees. The lake is especially beautiful in autumn when the trees take on hues of russet and gold. There’s a walking trail along the lake edge leading to secluded picnic spots. It’s very romantic!

Dominated by the spectacular Château Montebello, this village is a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Montreal. This is a great place for you and your partner to come for a nature-fuelled recharge in serene forests. Spend the day wandering along trails that lead to pretty lakes, stopping for a little picnic, and emerging in meadows of dancing wildflowers and waving grasses. The nearby Parc Omega is home to Bison, elk, black bears and beaver.

For a true Canadian experience, book a log cabin at the  Fairmont le Château Montebello . The resort is often voted as one of Canada’s top resort hotels, so you can guarantee that you’ll have a memorable stay! 

La Mauricie National Park

If you love lakes, this is the place for you. La Maurice National Park features 150 lakes ranging from tiny pools to long stretches of mirror-calm water, framed by towering conifers. This is an exceptional habitat for birdlife, home to over 200 species of birds, 50 species of mammals and plenty more! Keep an eye (and ear) out for loons and green frogs!

You can bring a tent if you like camping, hire an oTENTik if there are more than two of you (a combination tent and cottage – stayed in one in Edmonton which was fab!), or book a hotel in the nearby town of Grand-Mère.   

Burlington, Vermont

How do you fancy a cross-border road trip between two countries? One of the coolest weekend trips from Montreal is to hop over the border into the US state of Vermont for a night or two.

The charming town of Burlington is the capital of Vermont and even though it has a population of around 44,000, you’d never know. Many of its downtown streets, such as Church Street Marketplace , are pedestrianised. It’s a lovely place to explore quirky boutiques, listen to street entertainers and, of course, sample some fine New English cuisine.

Burlington is surrounded by quintessential New English landscapes, where graceful church spires peek from behind screens of foliage (spectacular with the famous fall colours) and the glittering Lake Champaign will take your breath away. After dark, I’d recommend checking out one of the local bars to sample some of of Vermont’s best craft beer.

If you’re planning a trip here, don’t miss my guide to the best things to do in Vermont .

Thousand Islands and Kingston

Three hour’s drive southwest of Montreal, Kingston sits on the delta of the Cataraqui and St. Lawrence rivers, where they empty into Lake Ontario. This is a place for lovers of the water and, indeed, Kingston is known as the “Freshwater Capital of the World.” You can fill your days sailing, kayaking, hiking the river trails through the forests, or taking ferry rides out to some of the Thousand Islands.

Kingston itself is a quaint little city (it’s actually Canada’s oldest city)  with a lively music scene and lots of interesting festivals scattered across the year  

Lake George, NY

For another cross-border long weekend trip from Montreal, Lake George is ideal! Nestled amid the Adirondack Mountains of New York state, Lake George (as its name suggests) is another waterworld of rivers and lakes set amid endless forests. 

The Warren County Bikeway will take you along easy trails through secluded forest glades from Lake George to Glens Falls and beyond. In winter, break out your skis or snowboards and thrash down some of the killer forest runs at North Creek

But outdoor adventures at Lake George are just the beginning. This part of New England is famous for its earthy cuisine and craft brewing. Enjoy a glass or two of the amber nectar while you sample a platter of delectable local meats, cheeses and fruit. It’s a great experience!

And when you’re full up, how about finishing the day watching the patterns of light and shade shift across the waters of Lake George. It’s pretty mesmerising!

Saint-Sauveur Valley

If you’ve ever dreamed of hiking through snow-clad forests, bathing in hot pools, or long candle-lit winter dinners with your love, Saint-Sauveur is the perfect place.  Tucked away in the forest-clad Laurentian Mountains, this cute little town is a popular winter destination for skiers, snowboarders and hikers. 

Saint-Sauveur is close enough to Montreal that you could pop over there for an impromptu romantic weekend of pampering and relaxation. If you’re looking for a romantic place to stay, I’d recommend taking a look at Manoir Saint-Sauveur . It’s the ultimate spot for a luxurious weekend!

Saint-Sauveur is also a lovely place to visit in summer. With music festivals, awesome shopping, amazing hikes through the surrounding forests, and some of the tastiest fresh produce you’ll find anywhere in Canada, it’s an all-year-round destination for weekend trips from Montreal.

Mont Saint-Hilaire

This charming little national park and its surrounding municipalities are a UNESCO World Heritage Biosphere Reserve. Located just over an hour from downtown Montreal, it’s easily accessible for a day out or a weekend away.

The villages along the nearby Richelieu River (Otterburn Park, Beloeil, Mont-Saint-Hilaire and McMasterville) have plenty of accommodation options and cool places to eat, drink and explore.

The area was awarded World Heritage status in 1978 and the reserve is home to many of eastern Canada’s rare and endangered species. You’ll find over 800 species of butterflies and trees that are over 400 years old! It’s a nature lover’s paradise.

Montreal is the perfect launchpad for taking off on weekend getaways, short adventures and romantic overnighters. From the historic sites of Canada’s capital and the tranquillity of the Eastern Townships, to the architectural marvels of Quebec City, and the beautiful landscapes surrounding Mont-Tremblant, there are so many amazing options for weekend getaways from Montreal. 

And whatever you are looking for: a family adventure, a romantic getaway, a solo expedition into the big outdoors, or just a breather from city life, the proximity of these destinations ensures that you can make the most of your time and head back to Montreal feeling fresh and re-energised.

So what are you waiting for? Grab a few overnight essentials, fuel up your sense of adventure, and set off for a weekend trip from Montreal!

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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Wow, what a wonderful post. You have made me fall in love with Montreal with your post. You have shown me some of the best things to do and see in Montreal. Your photos are stunning, they capture the vibe and beauty of Montreal and nearby places.

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10 Bucket List Day Trips From Montréal For The Perfect Short Road Trip

These phenomenal spots make for some of the best day trips from Montreal; they're all within 3.5 hours of the city and promise something for everyone.

• Mont-Tremblant is a stunning day trip option from Montreal, just 90 minutes away, with beautiful fall foliage and a rustic country environment.
• Quebec City is worth the 3.5-hour drive from Montreal, especially in the summer and fall, with its legendary nightlife and rich history.
• Plattsburgh, New York, less than two hours away, offers small-city charm, a vibrant college town atmosphere, and a lovely beach on Lake Champlain.

Montreal is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Canada, with a plethora of different things to do and see. From a delightful culinary culture to world-class entertainment, this bilingual hub is a refreshing alternative to nearby Ontario and is totally charming no matter what season someone visits.

Although one can find plenty of incredible things to do in Montreal and lots of places to stay , sometimes it's fun to get out of the city. There are cool things to see and do on both sides of the border, and people can get to all of them within the span of a few hours. Wake up early, hop in the car, and explore the wonderful world around Montreal to one's heart's content.

These amazing places near Montreal to visit on a day trip have something for everyone. Ranging from 90 minutes to 3.5 hours, these are among the best day trips to take from Montreal for some fun outside what is perhaps one of Canada's most popular cities.

Related: A Day By Day Itinerary: How To Spend 10 Perfect Days Exploring Canada’s West Coast

10 Mont-Tremblant

Idyllic Mont-Tremblant is one of Ontario's most beautiful fall and winter destinations, thanks to a sprawling national park, ample skiing opportunities, and a lovely little village to explore. It's a good getaway if one wants a rustic country environment but doesn't want to travel too far.

Plus, at just 90 minutes away from the big city, it's easy to spend the afternoon wandering through the countryside and returning to Montreal for dinner. Also, this spot's autumn foliage colors are stunning; Mont-Tremblant is easily one of the best day trips from Montreal in the fall.

• Distance From Montreal: 90 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: Fall and Winter

9 Quebec City

While Quebec City is a bit of a drive from Montreal, it's completely worth it; it's one of the bucket list day trips from Montreal that every tourist should take, especially during the balmy summer months and the crisper fall season.

Quebec City's nightlife is legendary , but one can also find plenty of cool activities to engage in during the day. There are tons of amazing architecture, history, and world-class museums where one can get a great understanding of early European culture in the province.

• Distance From Montreal: 3.5 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Summer and Early Fall

8 Plattsburgh

Over the border in the United States, Plattsburgh, New York, is a funky college town with a lovely little beach on Lake Champlain, making it a great destination less than two hours away from Montreal. Those looking for small-city New York charm, a younger vibe, and some beachy basking will love this destination.

Plus, since Plattsburgh doesn't have the name recognition of some of New York's larger cities, it's a much more authentic and cost-effective experience.

• Best Time to Visit: Summer

7 Boldt Castle

Boldt Castle is the jewel of New York's Thousand Islands and one of the prettiest spots one can visit on the Saint Lawrence River. Although it's incredible at any time of year, there's something unique and magical about Boldt Castle during leaf peepin' season.

In addition, one can check out the castle and then do some incredible hikes in and around the Thousand Islands.

• Distance From Montreal: 3 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Fall

Related Link: 10 Castles In The U.S. That Are Straight Out Of A Fairy Tale

Although Kingston is a bit further away from Montreal than some other spots on the list, it's well worth the drive. Kingston is steeped in history and has a stunning waterfront that's great to visit during the milder spring and fall seasons.

Moreover, history buffs will find tons of historic tours and authentic pubs to quench their thirst and enjoy Kingston's ambiance.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall

5 Burlington

Beautiful Burlington, Vermont, is a fantastic spot for top-notch leaf peeping, small-town charm, and some of the best scenery south of the Canadian border.

Although there's plenty to do in Burlington , including checking out architecture and lacing up those hiking books, there are lots of places to indulge. Ben & Jerry's calls Burlington home, so if one has a sweet tooth, it's an excellent place to pick up a pint.

• Distance From Montreal: 2 hours

Related Link: Feeling Fall: 10 Most Idyllic Spots In Vermont To Visit When The Leaves Change

Ottawa is the capital of Canada and a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to learn a little more about what this incredible country has to offer.

Plus, one can get there in just two hours from Montreal (and Ottawa is totally a foodie destination with lots of grub to sample ). The city is at its absolute best when it's green and blooming, so check it out during the spring. That said, summer and fall are also nice to visit to see the contrast in nature's colors.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and Early Summer

Albany is the vibrant capital of New York State, and it's a great place to visit during the fall and winter. There are tons of gorgeous foliage in and around Albany, plus excellent trekking and climbing.

The city has top-notch entertainment venues, including The Egg and The Palace Theatre, great dining options, and friendly people that will make this fun day trip from Montreal memorable.

2 Saratoga Springs

There's much to love about Saratoga Springs , including the famous Saratoga Race Course and its proximity to some of New York State's best nature.

Check out the Saratoga Spa State Park or the glorious hot springs that give the town its name, or visit some of the state's best museums. It's a cosmopolitan experience that makes a superb day trip from Montreal.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and Summer

Related Link: These Are 10 Of The Most Notable UNESCO Sites In Canada

1 Adirondack Park

Adirondack Park is arguably the best nature spot in New York State, and one can get to it in less than three hours from Montreal. Those looking for fabulous nature and completely unplug will want to spend the afternoon exploring the Adirondacks.

Spring, summer, and fall are exceptional times to visit, hike, and climb. One can expect to see a glorious display of incredible foliage during the fall.

• Distance From Montreal: 2.5 hours

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24 best day trips from Montreal for your next adventure

Ideas for quick escapes from Montreal, whether you're hitting the road or taking a hike.

We all agree that Montreal is home to some of the best restaurants , bars and things to do , but it's also outrageously close to day trip hot spots in Ontario, New York , Vermont, New Hampshire and (of course!) Québec—hot air balloon rides included. There's no shortage of quick getaway ideas, whether you want to camp by a lake, take in peak foliage , go hiking  or spend the day at Quebec’s secret spot to see the most most breathtaking fall colours (or this secret beach with turquoise water that's worth the trip).

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Montreal

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The best day trips from Montreal

1.  Îles de Boucherville, QC

30 minutes from Montreal

Situated in the St. Lawrence River east of Montreal, the Boucherville Islands are the closest of all our favourite day trips, plus the closest provincial park to the city centre. The archipelago park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking and canoeing, picnic facilities, cycling and cross-country ski trails, a golf course and paddle boats, all available for rental at a price. If you don’t have a car, no worries: It’s the only day trip on this list that is easily accessible by bike, provided the ferry services from Montreal and the South Shore permit. You could even plan a bicycle camping trip on the sites situated in the park; just be ready to carry your gear and pay the small entrance fee.

2.  Lanaudière, QC

45 minutes from Montreal

Lanaudière is less known than the Laurentians or the Eastern Townships tourist regions near Montreal, Lanaudière is less well-known than the Laurentians or the Eastern Townships but has many charming off-the-beaten-path attractions for city slickers craving nature or a small town fix. Located to the east of the city, the suburb of Terrebonne boasts a heritage village core that dates back to the seignorial days of the mid-17th century. Neighbouring Joliette plays host to the Festival de Lanaudière, the largest classical music festival  in Canada. Further afield, you can go fishing on a lake, stay overnight at Auberge du Lac Taureau, sample beers  at the Brasserie artisanale Albion or cheese at the Fromagerie du Champ à la Meule, or take a gastronomic tour of these and other gourmet food producers with local guides.

3.  Montérégie, QC

This Montreal-adjacent region is in the Southwest corner of Québec, incorporating the South Shore and Vaudreuil suburbs as well as the Southern Richelieu River valley. One of the richest agricultural regions in the country, Montérégie is a foodie’s delight with plenty of farmers markets, craft breweries, maple syrup producers and more. Check out one of the province’s most popular ciders at the Cidrerie Michel Jodoin, go for a cruise on Lake Champlain, have a gourmet brunch at a sugar shack or tour Saint-Hyacinth’s public market. St-Jean-sur-Richelieu also hosts the largest hot air balloon festival in Canada.

4.  Oka, QC

This village is best known to tourists for its large beach and Québec’s most famous artisanal cheese. The Oka provincial park, on the northern shore of the Lake of the Two Mountains, is by far the most popular place for Montrealers to soak up the sun on its kilometres of sandy beaches —and an infamous clothing optional section for the adventurous. The provincial park also includes seven chapels with stations of the cross built by the Sulpician order, as well as the usual camping, picnicking and boating facilities. In the wintertime, drive across the Oka-Hudson ice bridge for an interesting shortcut across the Ottawa River, or head to the Oka cheese factory to taste the famous cheese originally made by Trappist monks.

5.  Plattsburgh, NY

1.5 hours from Montreal

Most Montrealers take advantage of Plattsburgh for its comparative cheap transborder shopping centres and international airport, but the small city on the west side of Lake Champlain has much more to it than that. The downtown area has a lively selection of bars and nightclubs thanks to a large student population at the local SUNY campus, including the oldest bar in the state, the Monopole, opened in 1898. It’s also the best place to get a slice of genuine New York-style pizza without leaving Montreal’s orbit. There is also a very large beach on the lake that’s generally far less crowded than beaches closer to Montreal.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The City of Plattsburgh (@discover_plattsburgh)

6.  The Eastern Townships, QC

1-2 hours from Montreal

Along with the Laurentians, the Eastern Townships are one of the two most popular cottaging regions for Montrealers. You will notice by the names of towns like North Hatley, Sutton and Waterloo that this region was settled by the English, not the French, unlike most of Québec. The many beautiful Victorian farmhouses and villages’ churches in the area form a quaint backdrop for gourmet tourism (hello, Hovey Manor) that goes way beyond berry picking (but don’t knock berry picking if the opportunity arises). There are no less than 18 microbreweries in the area—we recommend the Dunham, Farnham and West Shefford breweries—as well as orchards, wineries, maple syrup producers, cheesemakers and local specialties like Lac-Brome duck and Stanstead rabbit. The Townships are also home to ski resorts at Mount Orford, Mount Sutton and Bromont.

7.  The Laurentians, QC

1-2.5 hours from Montreal

Encompassing a large portion of the Laurentian Mountains, this region north of Laval is one of the premier cottage and outdoors destinations of Québec. While many will head straight to the Mont-Tremblant ski resort, getting off Highway 15 and taking the scenic route can be a more rewarding approach. Heritage French Canadian villages like Saint-Agathe-des-Monts boast surprisingly beautiful churches, limestone homes and quaint main streets. Detours off the beaten path will take you to affordable cottage rentals which are often surrounded by hills and mountains and constructed on some of the best lakes for swimming in the area.

8.  Trois-Rivières, QC

This small city halfway from Montreal to Quebec City was the second settlement of the New France colony after the provincial capital. The old town here boasts remarkably intact examples of 17th and 18th century colonial French architects, including churches, convents and private homes and the Cathédrale de l'Assomption which has some of the finest stained glass in Canada. Other attractions  include the Musée Pop, dedicated to popular culture in Québec and one of the oldest prisons in Canada, which opened in 1822, closed in 1986 and can be toured today, while the Musée des Ursulines looks at the religious history of the area and is located in a two hundred year-old convent. Fans of Rallycross and NASCAR racing might want to save their visit for events hosted by the Circuit de Trois-Rivières when the smell of burnt diesel fills the city’s air.

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9.  Mont-Tremblant, QC

Situated at the foot of one of the tallest peaks of the Laurentian mountains, the village of Mont-Tremblant is most famous for its ski resort. The resort features over 100 ski and snowboarding runs, as well as dogsledding, skating, snowshoeing and other winter activities. All of this is based around a faux European pedestrian town packed with hotels, short-term condo rentals, restaurants, nightlife , bars  and spas. The summer is quieter here, but all the better—fans of stuff like golfing, off-roading and riding horses will find the resort less busy on the off season. For a more serene experience, head to the provincial park where you’ll find camping, canoeing, cycling trails, hiking trails and other wilderness activities. Racing fans should keep an eye out for events at the Circuit Mont-Tremblant, former site of the F1 Canadian Grand Prix.

10.  Long Sault Parkway, ON

Located just west of Cornwall, Ontario, the Parkway started as a side effect of flooding during the creation of the St. Lawrence Seaway over 50 years ago. Today, it is a series of 11 islands connected by road, containing several campsites, fishing facilities and boat rentals. It also has two beaches  which are considerably less busy in the summer months than the more well-known ones in the Montreal area, such as Oka. Keep an eye out on the drive for chip trucks, front-yard antique sales and other roadside treasures to make your day trip memorable, all of which can sometimes yield more than Montreal’s best flea markets .

11.  Montebello, QC

This village is located on the North Shore of the Ottawa River, halfway between Montreal and the nation’s capital. Its strategic location made it the perfect site for the grand railway hotel and resort, the Château Montebello. Even if you don’t plan on staying, the hotel alone is worth the trip: it’s the largest log structure in the world and its grounds contain cross-country skiing, dogsledding, golf, boating and snowmobiling facilities. History and geopolitical buffs take note, the luxurious hotel has regularly hosted American presidents and other foreign dignitaries at major conferences, including the 1981 G7 meeting. On the flip side, the humongous music festival  Montebello Rock also takes place once a year, where the town is totally overthrown by metalheads and folks’ front yards are rented out as camping grounds. That said, if you want to rock out in Montebello, make sure to plan months and months in advance to secure yourself a place to sleep, food to eat, water to drink and so forth.

12.  Victoriaville and Drummondville, QC

These two small cities in the Centre-du-Québec region can easily be visited in the same trip. Drummondville has points of interest like the Village Québécois d'Antan, a recreated historic town with actors in full costume, the Museum of Popular Photography, and Le Roy Jucep, a restaurant which claims to have invented poutine. Victoriaville boasts the Laurier Museum, birthplace of the Canadian Prime Minister considered the father of modern Canada and Mont Arthabaska, a popular park for hiking , mountain biking and birdwatching as well as panoramic views of the region. The park also features a neon-lit cross that rivals the famous one on Mount Royal in Montreal.

13.  Val-David, QC

A popular part of Laurentian cottage country, Val-David makes for a beautiful day trip thanks to its quaint shops, cultural attraction, cute cafés (not to mention a yummy traditional Quebec style casse-croûte) and nice waterfront views of the Rivière du Nord. Encircled by mountains and forest, the village is a picturesque destination for outdoorsy types looking for a break from nearby rock climbing, hiking, cycling along the P’tit Train du Nord trail or, in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. It is also the bastion of famous artists and craftsmen, brought together annually for 1,000 pots, among other events—an annual outdoor pottery sale by local artisans.

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14.  Stanstead, QC and Derby Line, VT

2 hours from Montreal

You may not have noticed these curious little border towns on the road to Boston: The towns of Stanstead and Derby Line were bisected by the border between Canada and the USA by wonky 18th century surveying. To highlight this, the Haskell Free Library and Opera House was purposely built half in each country in 1904 (a black line across the library floor marks the exact border). The 20,000-book library and 400-seat opera house serve both communities and can be visited from either country without reporting to a customs station.

15.  Burlington, VT

Burlington is the most populous city of Vermont, built on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. Most famous as the birthplace of international ice cream chain Ben & Jerry’s, the small city is also known for its elegant heritage architecture, easy living and lively arts scene. The Church Street Marketplace pedestrian mall and historic district, located in the heart of the city, has a wide range of boutique shopping , art galleries, restaurant terrasses   (read: patios), bars with live music and an upscale indoor mall.

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16.  Adirondack Park, NY

2.5 hours from Montreal

New York State’s Adirondack Park is the largest publicly protected area in the continental USA, and much of it is within a stone’s throw of Montreal. The vast nature preserve contains the Adirondack Mountains, dozens of lakes and a handful of picturesque small cities. If you’re into camping, check out one of the many State campgrounds, generally within range of lake swimming or hiking , or rough it pioneer-style in designated backwoods camping areas. If you’re looking for a more sedentary experience, the towns of Saranac Lake and Lake Placid (site of the 1980 Winter Olympics) have a unique log-cabin-meets-Main-Street feel that combines rustic appeal with boutique shopping  and lakeside resorts and lodges.

17.  Ottawa, ON and Gatineau, QC

The national capital region has the unique feature of sitting on the border of Québec and Ontario. The Parliament buildings and many national museums including the National Gallery, War Museum, Nature Museum and Science and Technology Museum make it an obvious choice for any Canadian or foreign tourist. There’s also Ottawa’s scenic centrally located Byward Market with a farmer’s market and adjacent bars and restaurants, and for those looking to get out of the immediate downtown core, look to its Chinatown and Little Italy neighbourhoods. In the winter, don’t miss skating across town on Rideau Canal, the world’s largest rink. Gatineau houses the National History Museum, as well as the immense Gatineau Park. For those looking for nightlife  hubs between these two cities, the general rule of thumb is to go to Elgin Street in Ottawa and Rue Laval in Gatineau for areas densely packed with bars.

18.  Boldt Castle, Alexandria Bay, NY

3 hours from Montreal

Once upon a time, George Boldt, eccentric millionaire general manager of New York City’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel, decided to build himself a summer home castle in the middle of the Saint Lawrence River’s Thousand Islands region. The project, undertaken in 1900, was abruptly abandoned in 1904 after the death of Boldt’s wife and was left to the whims of the winter and occasional squatters and vandals until the late 70s when it became a public tourist attraction. The somewhat surreal result is the semi-restored ruins of a six-storey, faux French Renaissance chateau with adjoining power house and yacht house. Situated on Heart Island, the Castle is accessible via ferry from Ontario or New York. Though it’s in the middle of the river, it has its own border crossing station, so bring your passport.

19.  Québec City, QC

The provincial capital is one of the most popular tourist sites in the country. The founding place of New France, the walled city is built on a breathtaking escarpment overlooking the Saint Lawrence River. Its architecture is a combination of early French colonial buildings interspersed with British colonial and Victorian styles, creating a cobblestone streetscape that recalls Europe more than anywhere north of Mexico. Attractions include the provincial Fine Arts and Civilization museums , a considerable selection of good French restaurants  and tours done by horse-drawn calèches . If you want to get out of the Old Québec tourist district, make sure to check out the working-class-chic streets of Lower Town neighbourhood Saint-Roch.

20.  Kingston, Ontario

3.5 hours from Montreal

From its spot on the eastern end of Lake Ontario near the mouth of the St. Lawrence River, Kingston has had a special place in Canadian history—even serving as capital briefly in the 1840s before the title passed to Ottawa. It’s a great place for history buffs, full of building tours and historical reenactments, but this student town is also nice for its pubs, market square and waterfront strolls. Start at the waterside Confederation Park, across from the impressively domed Kingston City Hall, and walk westward on the 8 km waterfront trail past the Kingston Penitentiary into Portsmouth Village (actually a neighbourhood of Kingston now). Have a pint of stout at Portsmouth Tavern, which dates back to 1893, before retracing your steps. Other spots worth checking out are the wonderfully curated Agnes Etherington Art Centre (always something great on view there) and The Isabel, a beautiful performance space for classical music (among other things).

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21.  Saratoga Spring, New York

Famous as the home to the Saratoga Race Course, the fancy-hat, pinkies-up place to be since 1863, this lovely town at the foothills of the Adirondacks is dripping with charm. It’s on the site of a bona fide mineral spring, where the naturally sparkling water is not only drunk liberally, but also used in spa services for its purported health benefits. Stay at the grandiose Gideon Putnam hotel (named for one of the city founders) and you’ll be mere steps away from America’s first ever (and still going strong) spa retreat, Roosevelt Baths. They’re located right in the Saratoga State Park, a great place to hike pre- or post-treatment. For some city slicking, stroll along Broadway to check out unique boutiques and taste a piece of history at Sperry’s (opened in 1932) or Hattie’s, maker of next-level, Bobby Flay-approved fried chicken and mac’n’cheese.

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22.  White Mountains, NH

4 hours from Montreal

New Hampshire's White Mountains have the highest peaks in the northeast, including the famous presidential range with household names like Mount Washington and Mount Jefferson. While at the very limit of what could be considered a day trip, the area is easily accessible for an overnight or weekend trip from Montreal and makes a great stop on a road trip to Boston, so that means it gets honorary mention here. Camping, mountain climbing and hiking are what this area's known for, but you can also grab a malted Frappe (a traditional New England milkshake) on the road or head to Weir's Beach, a vintage 1950s-style lake resort town surrounded by mountains with a beach, boardwalk penny arcade and drive-in cinema.

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23.  Mont-Sainte-Anne, Quebec

This ski resort just outside Quebec City is worth the long drive from Montreal for its impressive vertical drop of 625 metre (2,000 feet). In winter it’s obviously a ski haven, for both experts and newbies (you can rent equipment and sign up for ski school), but it’s also great for fat-biking and snowshoeing. Its outdoor sports status also stands in summer for mountain biking, canyoning, hangliding, golfing at Le Grand Vallon course or hiking. With a total length of 22.8 km, the Mestachibo Trail is a stunning hike filled with viewpoints on the Jean-Larose Waterfalls. Time your visit for fall to take in the leafy sea of brilliant reds and golden yellows—and if you’re feeling lazy, do it from aboard a cable car. Go the extra mile with a spa day at either Nordique Spa or Spa des Neiges.

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24.  North Adams and Williamstown, Massachusetts

4.5 hours from Montreal

These twin towns have been a cultural weekend destination for New Yorkers since the opening of The Clark in 1955, but Montrealers have caught the bug too more recently. The Williamstown art institution started as a place to house the private collection of the well heeled Robert and Francine Clark, but has evolved into a cutting-edge research centre and exhibition space packed with Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and Old Master works. Stop there first, then head to the MASS MoCA in nearby North Adams, where the giant industrial wasteland left over from the defunct steel industry was repurposed into a stellar contemporary art complex. With the third in this trifecta of Berkshires museums, the Williams College Museum of Art, expect a weekend packed with edification, good eats and unique small boutiques.

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6 best day trips from Montréal

Sep 19, 2023 • 5 min read

From the Laurentian mountains to the spires of Québec City, here are the best day trips from Montréal © Maridav / Shutterstock

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Montréal’s picturesque city parks and “the mountain” Mont-Royal are stunning natural idylls within a bustling city but you can’t beat a day trip to really appreciate the great outdoors.

A rental car is the best way to see the countryside where lush forested hills sliced with waterways and spoonfuls of Québec culture await. And remember, no Québec road trip is complete without poutine (French fries, squeaky cheese curds and flavorful gravy) from a casse-croûte (fry shack).

Here are six of our favorite day trips from Montréal to get you started.

1. Go hiking at a provincial park

Travel time: 30 minutes

Just 30km (18.6 miles) from Montréal near the suburb of Longueuil, lies the opportunity to go hiking amidst 27km (16.7 miles) of trails at Parc National du Mont-St-Bruno . The lovely park has five lakes and plenty of wildlife including 200 species of birds and endangered Western chorus frogs who sing a mating song. The park also has canoes and stand-up paddleboards for rent, and cross-country skiing trails in winter.

How to get to Parc National du Mont-St-Bruno from Montréal:  Drive over the Samuel de Champlain Bridge and take Ave de l’Acier. Alternatively, take a bus from Terminus Radisson Sud and change at Terminus Sainte-Julie.

2. Road trip to the Eastern Townships

Travel time: 1 hour

Québec might not be known for its wine (yet), but Les Cantons de l’Est (Eastern Townships) region is doing its best to change that. The fertile landscape, dotted with cute cottages similar to what you’ll find in New England, is home to a number of wineries pushing the boundaries of what we can expect from Canadian wine. One particularly notable spot is Clos Saragnat , whose owner invented ice cider – similar to ice wine – and offers tastings. Other great wineries to do tastings at include Vignoble du Ruisseau and Vignoble de l’Orpailleur .

The Eastern Townships is also home to great microbreweries like Brasserie Dunham and gourmet food producers such as Le Musée du Chocolat in Bromont. Further east, meet monks at the Trappist monastery Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac and taste their delicious cheeses, chocolates and sparkling ciders.

How to get to the Eastern Townships from Montréal: Drive southeast over the Samuel de Champlain Bridge and on Hwy 10 to the Townships. Some villages worth visiting include Sutton, Dunham, Bromont, Granby and Frelighsburg.

3. Taste maple syrup at a sugar shack

In springtime as the snow begins to thaw, so does the sap in maple trees. The sap is collected and cooked down into Québec’s liquid gold – maple syrup. Québécois celebrate syrup season (late February through April) by feasting on traditional food bathed in the sweet stuff at a cabane à sucre (sugar shack). Classic feasts include fluffy crepes, glazed ham, tourtière (meat pie) with homemade ketchup, oreilles de crisse (literally meaning Christ’s ears but referring to fried pork rinds), country loaves, all with plenty of maple syrup to drizzle on top of everything.

It’s also fun to roll the syrup in snow and lick it like a popsicle. You can find sugar shacks on the outskirts of Montréal and across southern Québec, but a dependable option close to the city is Sucrerie de la Montagne in Rigaud, and it’s open year-round.

How to get to Sucrerie de la Montagne from Montréal: Drive west on Hwy 40 and turn off the exit to Riguad. The sugar shack is on Ch St-George.

4. Go kayaking, cycling and rock climbing in Val-David

Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Surrounded by lush Laurentian hills, Val-David is an artsy, shop-filled town that’s also a gateway for adventure sports.

For a family-friendly experience, À l’Abordage rents out kayaks to meander down the river before setting you up with a cruiser bike to tackle the rails-to-trails Le P’tit Train du Nord bike path back to Val-David. There are other places to rent kayaks and bikes as well if you plan to stay out longer or do something more adventurous.

On the edge of town, Parc Régional de Val-David - Val-Morin is a go-to for rock climbers, with hundreds of traditional and bouldering routes.

How to get to Val-David from Montréal: Take Hwy 15 north or make it an adventure and cycle Le P’tit Train du Nord.

5. Ski the slopes at Mont-Tremblant

Travel time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Since 1939, Mont-Tremblant has been Québec’s premier ski resort, with gorgeous runs starting from above the clouds down past evergreen trees weighed down with snow. The town below is made to look like a little European village (though it’s kitschy), with plenty of shops, restaurants and resorts. Warm up after a day on the slopes at Spa Scandinave .

In summer, Mont-Tremblant transforms into a playground for hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and golfing. Visit nearby Parc National du Mont-Tremblant for an escape to the wilderness – it’s a lot of fun to explore by canoe.

How to get to Mont-Tremblant from Montréal: Drive north on Hwy 15 until you get to the resort town. There are a few buses from the town of Saint-Jérôme, as well as shuttles around town.

6. Feed majestic mammals and Parc Oméga

Travel time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Canada’s vast wilderness is graced with the presence of caribou, moose, elk, bears and many more majestic species, but the chances of running into them in the wild are slim. That’s where Parc Oméga comes in. The reserve protects hundreds of species of Canadian mammals while holding a careful equilibrium that protects the animals, the natural habitat and the humans who visit.

Drive your car slowly through the entrance and you’ll soon be greeted by dozens of gigantic elk. Buy a big bag of carrots to bring with you and stick one out the window – don’t worry, the beautiful beats are gentle. The tour continues past caribou, ibex, wolves, cinnamon bears and more, and there’s a farm where you can get out and walk around with deer.

How to get to Parc Oméga from Montréal: It’s located north of Montebello roughly halfway between Montréal and Ottawa on the Québec side. You’ll need your own vehicle to do the tour.

Editor's note: This article was sponsored by Québec after Montréal was selected for Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2024. Sponsors do not influence a destination's inclusion in Best In Travel, which is determined solely by Lonely Planet's editorial team.

This article was first published July 2019 and updated September 2023

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Ultimate laurentian mountains 1 day road trip itinerary: montreal to mont tremblant.

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Nestled in the Southern Laurentian Mountains of Quebec, Canada, lies Mont-Tremblant—a stunning town filled with natural beauty, thrilling outdoor activities, and a rich history. Just a short 90 minute drive away from Montreal, Mont-Tremblant is the perfect day trip from Montreal all year round, whether it be for summer hiking, admiring the fall foliage or winter skiing & snowboarding. The drive from Montreal to Mont Tremblant takes you through many small towns in the Laurentian Mountains, all offering unique breathtaking landscapes and a chance to explore Quebecois cuisine & culture. I recently went on Get Your Guide’s ‘ Laurentian Mountain Day Trip ’ tour (more on that below), which conveniently took us to each town in the itinerary via air conditioner coach and was an easy & fun way to travel through the mountains, returning us back to downtown Montreal at the end of the day! This post will uncover the ultimate one-day road trip from Montreal to Mont Tremblant which stops at many hidden gems of the Laurentians Mountain along the way. It is the ultimate guide for locals & tourists alike, especially those short on time to maximize your day in the mountains!

Why Visit the Laurentian Mountains

Stop #1 montreal to saint saver.

•  Stop #2 Saint-Sauveur to Lac Saint Joseph

Stop #3 Lac Saint Joseph to Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts

Stop #4 sainte-agathe-des-monts to mont-tremblant.

• Getting to Mont Tremblant with Ease 

Trip Planning

• In Conclusion

The Laurentian Mountains hold a special place in North America’s outdoor legacy, welcoming adventurers and nature enthusiasts year-round. The Laurentian range is over 22,000 square kilometers and is a diverse landscape characterized by rounded mountaintops, rolling hills and over 9,000 freshwater lakes, reminiscent of Swiss-like towns. In fact, North America’s first ski lift was built in 1931 in Mont-Tremblant. The crown Jewel of the Laurentians, Mont Tremblant is 1,510 square kilometers, making it the second largest national park in Quebec & also the first park created in the province. Tremblant has over 400 pristine lakes, streams, six epic rivers, endless mountains and rich wildlife, including Eastern Wolves, Black Bears, Canadian Beavers, Moose, River Otters & more, it’s no wonder more than 3.5 million tourists flock to Tremblant each year! Here is my ultimate guide to a road trip from Montreal to Mont Tremblant, to help you jam pack as much as possible into 1 epic day in the Laurentians.

Saint-Sauveur is a short 50 minute drive away from Montreal (via Trans-Canada Hwy/Autoroute 15 N), making it the perfect first stop on your Laurentian road trip. It is an idyllic town with a population of just 11,000 & is hard to believe you are just 45 minutes away from the hustle & bustle of montreal! I recommend staying in Saint-Sauveur for 30-45 minutes to fuel up on coffee & breakfast, walk around the gorgeous town and admire St Savior Church.

For breakfast you can’t miss Boulangerie Pag é which offers a huge assortment of fresh baguettes & bread, mouth-watering cakes, pastries & croissants, gourmet chocolates & coffee and hot quiches, sandwiches, soups, lasagne & more. You can even buy vacuum-sealed tarts & quiches to take home. I got their Ham & Cheese French Baguette warmed up with dijon mustard & mayonnaise which was absolutely delicious and kept me full all the way to Mont-Tremblant. 

I also recommend buying food & drink in Saint Sauveur from the local merchants & boulangeries to take for a picnic at Tremblant. Fromagerie Saint-Sauveur has a huge array of local cheeses, raclettes & fondues, Lou’s Smoked Meat is a deli specializing in smoked meat sandwiches and Gio’s Le Marché offers prêt-à-manger (ready to eat) pizzas & pasta as well as wine and other italian market goods to take on a picnic and sample the local cuisine. 

Stop #2 Saint-Sauveur to Lac Saint Joseph

A short 25 minute drive along route 329 from Saint-Sauveur is Lac Saint Joseph in the Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard Municipality. Lac Saint-Joseph covers an area of approximately 1.4938 km²   and is a picturesque spot to take some photos with the stunning lake backdrop, stretch your legs & have a short 15 minute break. Gratton Beach is a local municipal beach open during summer which provides fantastic views of the lush surrounding forests and the Laurentian Mountains, especially during September/ October to view the Fall Foliage.

Continue your journey along Route 329 until you reach the charming town of Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, nestled around the magnificent Lac des Sables. This stunning lake serves as the focal point of the town, drawing both residents and tourists throughout the year, and it’s an absolute must-visit on your itinerary. I highly recommend allocating at least 30 minutes of your time here to soak in the serene beauty of the lake and to explore the quaint town before you continue your adventure. As you arrive you’ll notice a tranquil wharf ‘Quai Municipal’ & marina which overlooks the lake and is a fantastic spot to sit and admire the views of the Baie J Albert Cloutier. You can also stroll along the Gaston-Miron boardwalk, renowned for its breathtaking views during the day and its enchanting lit scenery at night, making it an ideal starting point for the town’s heritage circuit . 

If you wish to have a quick bite in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts there are many delicious options to choose from:

• Chez Girard is located in a century-old house turned hotel & restaurant, with a beautiful terrace overlooking the lake, specializing in seafood.
• Boulangerie Pain d’Épi Sainte-Agathe which offers a selection of Boulangerie, pâtisseries, croissants, sandwichs & coffees
• Crêperie L’Agathoise offers authentic, artisanal Bretonne crepes and galettes, cooked on a traditional “billig” griddle.
• Station Lunch serves up homemade sandwiches, soups & pastas using local products. You can also hire E-bikes here!
• Stonehaven Le Manoir – part of the Relais & Châteaux luxury Stonehaven hotel, a gourmet restaurant with a beautiful veranda & terrace. They even offer a Sunday tea service .

Finally onto the main event – Mont Tremblant! It takes 25 minutes to get from Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts to Mont-Tremblant and the drive is incredibly picturesque. I recommend staying here at least 3 hours before you return back home. Upon arriving in town, you’ll notice a Cabriolet (an open air gondola) taking pedestrians & skiers from the bottom of the village to the top (the base of the mountain). This unique experience is free and is a great way to maneuver throughout Mont-Tremblant & admire the village.

Here are my picks for the best activities to do at Mont- Tremblant during your Day Trip:

• Hiking the Laurentians: During summer there are 11 trails open ranging from 1km to 11km to accommodate all hiking levels. Admire the local waterfalls, lakes & views of Tremblant and keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. I recommend ‘ La Villageoise Loop ’ (The Village Loop) which is an easy, 6.6km loop trail that features 127 meters of elevation gain. It is an easy stroll that takes approx 1.30 hours that provides fantastic views of the forests, lakes & Laurentian Mountains. 
• Snow Sports: Tremblant becomes a Winter Wonderland during the colder months and has over 102 runs & 14 ski lifts in the resort to cater to all levels of skiers & snow borders. The last lifts close between 3:30-4:30, so you can sneak in a half day skiing if you wish, or customize your itinerary to stay for a full day! If skiing or boarding isn’t your cup of tea, you can also try snow tubing, dog sledding, ice climbing or snowshoeing to take part in the winter adventures !

• Take a trip on the Panoramic Gondola: Open May to October, the Panoramic Gondola takes you to the summit of Mont Tremblant. During the 10 minute ascent you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lac Tremblant, the Laurentians and the surrounding valleys. Once arrived, there are hiking trails, nature shows, a licensed restaurant & a 360 observation tower to explore. During winter, the gondola transports skiers & snowboarders from the summit of the mountain.
• Go on the Skyline Luge: Originating from New Zealand, the Skyline Luge in Tremblant (the first Luge attraction in North America) is part go-kart, part toboggan and features a 1.4km trail through the Laurentian forest, overlooking Tremblant Resort. You start by taking a chairlift to the top of the Luge track before navigating down 24 corners on the 3 wheeled carts.
• Explore the Pedestrian Village : the European-style pedestrian village at the base of the mountain features cobblestone streets, colorful buildings & a backdrop of the surrounding mountains & lake, exuding alpine charm. The postcard-perfect village has a diverse array of shops & boutiques to indulge in some retail therapy as well as numerous cafes, bars & restaurants. The village is adorned with iconic red Adorondak seats & outdoor fireplaces which is the perfect spot to unwind & watch the world go by.

• Visit the Scandinave Spa: indulge in a rejuvenating digital detox at the Scandinave Spa Mont Tremblant location. Set in the Diable River this tranquil oasis offers both indoor & outdoor installations & relaxation areas. You’ll alternate between hot finnish saunas, eucalyptus steam rooms & whirlpools followed by icy plunges in pools & waterfalls to experience the invigorating benefits of hydrotherapy. Finish each relaxation cycle by lounging on hammocks & recliners in the lush forest setting, all while wrapped up in a plush robe. They even offer massage services & an on-site bistro. For a full review of the Scandinave Spa Montreal, feel free to check out my review here.
• Eat & Drink your Way through the Village : Tremblant has no shortage of restaurants & bars to indulge in & experience authentic Quebecois cuisine during your day trip. I highly recommend Restaurant La Savoie which offers authentic Savoyard cuisine from raclettes to fondue & Le Shack , a resto-bar which is perfect for après-ski & happy hour on their sunny outdoor terraces

Getting to Mont Tremblant with Ease

While many travelers opt for driving, I’d like to share an excellent alternative that ensures you make the most of your time in the mountains: Get Your Guide’s ‘ Laurentian Mountains Day Trip ‘.  Please note this tour is offered during the summer/ fall months. 

I had the pleasure of experiencing this tour personally in late September, 2023, with my parents visiting from Australia. Booking the tour online  was a breeze, and on the day of our trip, we were picked at 7:30 am from my parents’ hotel in downtown Montreal. Our meeting point was the Tourist Information Centre, located between Peel Street and Metcalfe Street. Checking in and obtaining our tickets was quick and hassle-free, and by 8 am, we were comfortably settled into the air-conditioned, spacious coach ready for our adventure. 

The coach took us seamlessly from Montreal to Saint Sauveur for our first stop, where we had 45 minutes to explore the gorgeous town and get breakfast. We then moved onto a photo stop at the picturesque Lac Saint Joseph & then onto the St-Agathe-des-Monts, allowing us to visit three beautiful Laurentian towns before noon! Finally, we arrived at Mont-Tremblant at 1pm, where we had 3 hours free time to explore the town at our own pace and partake in one of the many activities on offer. The commentary was in both English & French & our fantastic Tour Guide kept us entertained during the bus trip with interesting facts & anecdotes about each town. At the end of the day, with everyone tired from the day’s activities, we returned to Montreal by coach, being dropped off at our hotels by 6:30pm. 

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this tour eliminates the hassle of driving yourself and offers ample time to explore each town along the way, including a generous three hours in Mont Tremblant. I highly recommend Get Your Guide to anyone looking for an affordable & convenient way to visit the majestic Laurentian Mountains! It is the Ultimate one-day road trip from Montreal to Mont Tremblant.

Before you hit the road from Montreal to Mont Tremblant, it’s important to pack smartly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip, especially as the weather can change quickly in the mountains! Here are some packing tips to keep in mind:

• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: The weather in the Laurentians varies depending on the season, so check the forecast and pack accordingly. During winter, make sure to bring layers, a warm jacket, and gloves for activities like skiing. In warmer seasons, opt for breathable clothing suitable for hiking & outdoor activities. 
• Comfortable Footwear: Whether you plan to hike scenic trails or stroll through Mont Tremblant’s village, comfortable shoes are a must. 
• Sun Protection: Don’t forget essentials like SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat, especially if you’re visiting in the summer when the sun can be unexpectedly intense.
• Snacks and Water: While you’ll find plenty of dining options along the way, it’s a good idea to carry some snacks and a refillable water bottle to quickly refuel during your day.
• Portable Charger: You will no doubt be using your phone to capture photos of the picturesque towns & for GPS, so make sure you bring a portable phone charger.
• Camera and Binoculars: Capture the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters with a camera or smartphone & enhance wildlife watching with binoculars 
• Maps and Navigation: Even with GPS, it’s a smart idea to bring a physical map or navigation app handy, as cell service can be spotty in some remote areas.
• Cash and Cards: Ensure you have some Canadian dollars and credit/debit cards for purchases, as not all places may accept international cards. If you opt for a tour, make sure to bring small amounts of cash to tip your guide. 
• First-Aid Kit: A basic first-aid kit with essentials like bandages, pain medication, insert repellant and any personal medications is a smart addition to your backpack, especially if you plan on hiking or skiing. 

What are you Waiting for?

The road trip from Montreal to Mont Tremblant is filled with natural wonders, picturesque towns, adrenaline-fuelled activities and a taste of Quebecois culture. From the charming streets of Saint-Sauveur to the serene beauty of Lac Saint Joseph, and the vibrant Swiss ambiance of Mont-Tremblant itself, this one-day itinerary is perfect for escaping to the heart of the Laurentian Mountains. Whether you’re traveling by car, or going on a convenient tour , this Ultimate one-day road trip from Montreal to Mont Tremblant ensures a day filled with Quebecois adventure for both locals and tourists alike. What are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip today!

Check out more Get Your Guide Mont-Tremblant Tours below!

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Road Trip from Montreal to Quebec City

If you're up for a short but stunning trip, crossing between Quebec's two largest cities and passing wildlife parks and stunning nature reserves, then a road trip from Montreal to Quebec City is the perfect journey for you.

The 330km trip from Montreal to Quebec City takes 4 hours to drive. The routes passes Saint Gregoire, Sorel-Tracy, Shawinigan City and Saint-Narcisse, as well as St Lawrence River, Batiscan River Park, Parc De La Peninsule and Batiscan River Park.

While not a huge journey in terms of distance, this trip is full of great scenery and places to visit. Please keep reading until the end to discover our favorite route, places to stay along the way, plus the best times of year to travel.

How far is Quebec City from Montreal and how long will the road trip take?

While you could easily manage this trip in a day, our recommended route takes you along a couple of extra detours on the way, making the actual distance 326km and just over 4 hours of non-stop driving to complete.

Despite the distance being short enough to complete in a day, this epic road trip has plenty of attractions to see on the way that a better move would be to spread it over two to three days, allowing for at least one overnight stop.

Best road trip route from Montreal to Quebec City

The most direct route from Montreal to Quebec City falls in a straight line, as you follow A-20 through a couple of towns. While being a straight forward journey, there aren't as many interesting places to visit en route.

The alternative and slightly longer route only adds an extra 71km to your journey but takes you through the most enjoyable and interesting locations between Montreal and Quebec City.

If you choose to follow the route from the west side of St Lawrence River, you will be able to stop and see a few nature reserves. The east side of the river offers attractions such as beautiful small cities.

Our recommended route covers a bit of both and the added detours allow you to see stunning nature reserves, pretty towns and fascinating cities along the way.

Road trip route from Montreal to Quebec City

Begin by taking Quebec Autoroute 10 across the St Lawrence River to Brossard, where you will take Quebec Autoroute 30 north-east, passing right by Mont-Saint-Bruno National Park.

Continue on A-30 to its completion is Sorel-Tracy, where you'll switch to Quebec Route 132, the longest highway in the province.

Follow this for 65km to Saint Gregoire, passing Nicolet Bird Sanctuary, where you will then change to Quebec Autoroute 55 going north.

Take this road back across the St Lawrence River and just as the road ends and Route 155 begins, exit onto Quebec Autoroute 40 going east and arrive at Trois-Rivieres, a great city for museums and galleries.

Next exit onto Route 359 just north of Champlain to Saint-Narcisse Take this until the exit for Route 352, which takes you to Saint Narcisse. From here, Route 361 will take you back to Quebec Autoroute 40.

Continue on Quebec Autoroute 40 past The Devil's Hole Cave and through delightful towns, following St Lawrence River all the way to Quebec City.

Best places to stop between Montreal and Quebec City

While you could complete the road trip from Montreal to Quebec City in a single day, a much better option would be to include one or two overnight stops en route.

There are some lovely places to stay on this short but scenic journey. Here are some of the best ones you'll pass:

Stay on the banks of three rivers - Trois-Rivieres

At 159km and halfway through your road trip, an ideal overnight stop is the beautiful city of Trois-Rivieres. The second oldest settlement in Quebec, Trois-Rivieres was founded in 1634 and is considered to be the cultural and economic hub of the Mauricie region.

Trois-Rivieres, French for "Three Rivers", is located alongside the Saint Maurice and St Lawrence River. Due to its age, city is full of history, with many of its buildings over 100 years old and features an 18th century monastery, basilica and foundry.

Beyond its history it also has numerous attractions to draw in visitors, including its wonderful collection of islands, rivers, parks and, throughout the summer months, its fabulous selection of festivals.

After a day of sightseeing, an excellent place to stay would be at Kinipi Spa Nordique & Hebergement . This incredible spa hotel will leave you wanting to book a second trip, with 'thermal experience' relaxing treatments surrounded by soft lighting and waterfalls.

Once you've had your treatments head to the superb hotel restaurant Kinipi à la bouche on-site, serving up options including high tea and dinner - and make sure to catch cocktail hour. You are also close to many local sites including Parc Masse and Parc du Cardinal-Roy, and popular Parc Pie-XII.

It's the ideal setting to recharge before the final stretch of the road trip.

The heart of the city - Quebec City

After driving the final stretch to Quebec City, it is worth staying an extra night if you can to to explore different areas of the city and more of the surrounding attractions.

As a popular tourist destination, Quebec City has a wide range of things to see and do. Sitting on the St Lawrence River in Canada's mostly French-speaking Quebec province, this city dates back to 1608 and has a fortified colonial core.

Discover Vieux-Québec and Place Royale, with stone buildings and narrow streets and the imposing Citadelle of Québec. You can also explore the Petit Champlain district's cobblestone streets which are lined with bistros and boutiques.

Quebec City unsparingly offers a wide range of hotels to choose from. But for a really luxurious stop at the heart of the city, a stay at Le Capitole Hotel is difficult to beat .

This 4-star hotel is in the walled city of Old Quebec and is within a 6 minute walk of the Fontaine de Tourny. Attached to a restaurant and theater, Le Capitole Hotel features beautifully modern designed rooms and a stunning bar and lounge area.

The luxurious rooms have wonderful views of the old city, and being so close to the all the amenities, you are only ever a short walk to the shopping and dining establishments. You will truly feel within the heart of the city at Le Capitole Hotel.

Things to see on a road trip from Montreal to Quebec City

Despite the fact that the road trip from Montreal to Quebec City is a short journey, there is still plenty of incredible places to see along the way.

If you are pressed for time, here are our top suggestions of places to visit:

• Mont-Saint-Bruno National Park - This large park has a great number of trails for hiking as well as five lakes and a chance to spot local wildlife.
• St Lawrence River - At a length of 500km, the St Lawrence River connects Lake Ontario to the Atlantic Ocean and separates Canada from America, along the New York-Quebec Border.
• Sorel-Tracy - One of the youngest cities in Canada, founded as recently as 2001, this place is best known for its links to the metal industry, particularly steel, and for being the launching point of the ferry to the Saint Ignace De Loyola islands.
• Parc récréoforestier Saint-Mathieu – This park is located south of La Mauricie National Park of Canada, in the heart of the Laurentian Forest. There are 48 lakes as well as waterfalls and cascades to discover plus mountain range, lakes and valleys to admire.
• Shawinigan City – Located on the St Maurice River, this small city offers stunning views, wildlife, as well as museums, and beautiful architecture. Make sure you see the beautiful Shawinigan Waterfalls - it's definitely worth a visit.
• The Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-du-Cap - With its immense, modern basilica, old sanctuary and magnificent gardens, offers religious, spiritual, cultural and even tourist activities, this beautiful sanctuary is a host to plenty of cultural and art events too.
• Nicolet Bird Sanctuary - Located on the shores of Lake Saint Pierre, the Nicolet Bird Sanctuary is one of 28 migratory bird sanctuaries located within Quebec. Stop here to spot Canada Goose, ducks, sparrows and tern.
• The Devil's Hole Cave - Explore one of Quebec's best cave systems. The second longest cave in Quebec, take a guided tour and learn about its formation of the cave as well as the origins of its name.
• Trois-Rivieres - The second oldest city in the province of Quebec, first settled by French Colonists in 1634. Located where the St Lawrence and Saint Maurice rivers meet, it is considered to be the cultural and economic hub of the Mauricie region.
• Batiscan River Park - Located on the banks of the stunning Batiscan River, this park features towering forests, alive with wildlife from a wide range of species. It is a popular destination for campers, hikers and wildlife enthusiasts, as well as fans of a variety of water sports.
• Parc De La Peninsule - Parc De La Peninsule features camping spots and beaches for those who want to kick back and relax, while offering a selection of pools and the highest water slides in the region, for those looking for a more exhilarating experience.
• Village Vacances Valcartier – located on the East of Quebec City, this leisure complex has a wide range of waterslides, spa centre, and sports activities. If you wish to relax and extend your trip to two days, we recommend visiting this resort.
• Reserve Naturelle Du Marais-Leon-Provancher - A beautiful nature reserve, located just west of Quebec City, that features rivers, marshes and campsites, full of wildlife, including deer, fish and a wide variety of different species of birds.
• Parc de la Plage-Jacques-Cartier – This park, located on the outskirts of Quebec City, has plenty of outdoor activities and is ideal for those looking to hike or just enjoy a picnic. The park also hosts various events throughout the year.

Best time to go on a road trip from Montreal to Quebec City

With the road trip from Montreal to Quebec City taking you to a more northern part of an already notoriously cold country, selecting the right time to make your journey is important, to ensure you can make the most of it.

The temperature in this part of Canada in winter can reach as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit during December and January, unless you are looking to enjoy some winter sports, the cold will make it difficult to get the most of all of the outdoor attractions.

The best time to visit Quebec City is between June and September, when you will be able to enjoy the warm weather and temperatures a comfortable average of around 55 degrees.

That being said, if you'd rather avoid the tourist season, a visit in April or May would be better. The weather is still a pleasant 30-41 degrees and you can enjoy the stunning spring foliage.

Similarly fall is an equally wonderful time to visit, where you will be swapping spring flowers for autumn leaves. It's a great time for those who love nature to make the most of the fantastic parks and nature reserves along the way.

If you'd rather time your visit with an event or two, the summertime is full of festivals such as KWE!, an indigenous people festival and Festival d'été de Quebec, an 11-day music festival.

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19 Best Day Trips From Montreal (Our 2024 Selection)

The best day trips from Montreal ordered from closest to furthest away.

If you have access to a car and if your Montreal trip is long enough, you have to venture away from the Montreal island! Day trips from Montreal will allow you to see the less urban and more “Québécois” side of the province.

Many of the best places to visit from Montreal are within two hours of the city, making it convenient to explore them on a day trip and come back to Montreal for the night. Around Montreal, you'll find a lot of outdoor activities and family outings opportunities.

In this article, we've picked the best hidden gems outside the city limits (and ordered them by drive time). Use this as your guide to find the best day trips from Montreal.

Day Trips Less than 1 Hour From Montreal

Ile des soeurs strom spa nordique.

• Drive time: 20 minutes

Ile des Soeurs Strom Spa Nordique is my favourite spa near Montreal, and it’s the best day trip from Montreal for a respite from the city.

I love that there is a number of relaxation stations to choose from (I always end up napping somewhere) and I like how large the space is. You can relax in outdoor whirlpools, Finnish saunas, thermal baths, on a lounge chair under the sun, lay on a bean bag in a relaxation room. The lake views make me feel like I’m in the country rather than in the largest city in Quebec.

You may want to indulge in a massage or exfoliating body treatment. Then, dine on a traditional Nordic dish at the onsite restaurant to top off your visit to Strom.

Just beyond the Montreal city limits, and easy to get to in a taxi, Strom spa allows you to recharge your mind and body with their holistic approach to rejuvenation.

Parc Jean Drapeau

While Parc Jean Drapeau is technically in Montreal and already features as one of the best Montreal attractions , you could easily plan to spend a full day at this urban park so we’re including it on this list as well.  Here, you can truly find something for everyone, from Jean Dore Beach to Casino de Montreal , Floralies Gardens , and more.

Parc Jean Drapeau boasts lovely hiking trails and rock climbing spots. At La Ronde , your family will enjoy over 40 thrilling rides. Or, cycle around Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve , where the Formula 1 Grand Prix is held.

Depending on when you’re in Montreal, you may be in time for the Osheaga art festival in Espace 67 , or Piknic Electronic in the summertime. Check the schedule for details about what to expect while you’re visiting.

Quartier Dix30

• Drive time: 25 minutes

Head to Quartier Dix30 for a day trip from Montreal full of top-notch shopping and trendy eateries. Since this is an outdoor mall, the atmosphere is bright, modern, and fun to roam around.

Shopaholics will be delighted to find over 300 shops at this chic center. From department stores to boutiques, luxury brands to athletic wear, toy stores, and more, you can find it all at Quartier Dix30.

You could spend a full day shopping and dining at the sprawling Quartier Dix30. Depending on the time of year, you may be able to visit while they’re having a special event like yoga or crafts for kids.

Iles-de-Boucherville National Park

• Drive time: 30 minutes

One of the most convenient places to visit from Montreal for activities in nature is Iles de Boucherville . Visit this National Park made up of islands and discover everything from water sports to biking, wildlife watching, hiking, and more.

Here at Iles de Boucherville, rent equipment for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, pedal boating, and more. With over 21 kilometres of multipurpose trails and 15 kilometres of rustic trails, there is a hike for everyone.

Stay active in the cold months with activities like snowshoeing, winter hiking, and even sledding for the kiddos.

Erabliere Meunier

Take a bite into the best of Montreal’s maple delicacies at Erabliere Meunier . This family-run farm specializes in homemade maple-themed treats, hearty dinners, and entertainment for the whole family.

Take a tour of the farm on a sleigh or tractor ride, or simply stroll around the property. You’ll meet over 60 animals in the stables, and enjoy local maple products being made in the sugar shack. Try to arrive early for the fresh maple donuts!

Plan your 1-day road trip from Montreal to Erabliere Meunier accordingly. It’s only open during the Maple Season from February to April, closed on Mondays, and reservations for dinner are required.

Searching for places to visit near Montreal for a day of indoor fun? The Cosmodome is a short drive away from the city center.

The Cosmodome is a favourite among youngsters as they become astronauts during their visit and take part in an interactive virtual mission! You can peruse the exhibits to learn more about space exploration, how astronauts made it to the moon, explore the Solar System to scale and inspect a real moon rock.

In addition, families can try training simulators similar to those of NASA or discover the new activity Cosmo Mission abord the spaceship Astralis. The Cosmodome also offer a 3-day space camp, a parent-child camp and day camp.  

Parachute Montreal

• Drive time: 45 minutes

Parachute Montreal is the ultimate place to go near Montreal for a next-level adrenaline rush. From first-timers to seasoned jumpers, Parachute Montreal will customize the perfect experience for you.

Choose to jump from 9,000 or 13,500 feet, then gear up for the adventure of a lifetime. After the safety briefing, board the plane and get ready to freefall in tandem with your instructor.

Note that Parachute Montreal has two locations, one near the North Shore in Saint-Esprit, and one near the South Shore in Farnham.

The Monteregie region is one of the best day trips from Montreal for foodies and nature lovers. Check out local eateries, cultural gems, and seasonal outdoor fun.  

Get a taste of the local produce and goodies at orchards, farms, and sugar shacks. Just keep in mind, many of the sugar shacks are only open in the springtime and orchards tend to be open in the autumn. 

In winter, go skiing at Ski Saint-Bruno or Mont Rigaud . In the summer, visit outdoor adventure courses and lovely biking paths. Hit the water on a cruise at Adventures Lac Champlain or Croisieres d’Iberville . Or, enjoy a day of kayaking around the area’s lakes.

Beach Club Pointe Calumet

Beach Club Pointe Calumet is one of the best day trips from Montreal for those looking for a party scene. Only open during events in the summer, be sure to peek at the schedule and secure tickets before your visit.

Here at the Beach Club, you can expect dance floors, trendy cocktail bars, multiple pools and tropical beach areas, and a massive outdoor stage.

While Beach Club Pointe Calumet tends to attract younger crowds, any electronic-style music fans will appreciate the massive venue and impressive lineup of performers.

Day Trips 1 to 2 Hours Drive From Montreal

Park safari.

• Drive time: 1 hour

Hunting for the best places to visit around Montreal with kids? Park Safari is bound to be a roarin’ good time for your family. Between nine themed animal habitats and water parks on site, this is a one-of-a-kind day trip for animal lovers.

One of the main attractions at Park Safari is the Safari Adventure. Here, you’ll observe elephants, water buffalo, antelope, wildebeest, and more exotic creatures. Throughout the park, you’ll meet animals from around the world and learn about local species as well.

Be wary of the dates of operation, as the park isn’t open during certain weeks and months. The best time of year to visit is June through August.

Saint-Sauveur

Saint-Sauveur is a wonderful place to visit from Montreal. At this town nestled in the Laurentians, you will discover exciting ways to stay active outside all year long.  

If you plan to visit Saint-Sauveur in the winter months, bundle up and prepare for a skiing wonderland at The Ski Hill . Mont Avilia and Summit St. Sauveur offer trails for skiing newbies or those ready for the double-diamond slope. You can also find a section dedicated to snow tubing!

When the snow melts, visitors can go zip-lining, mountain biking, or hiking through the lush forests. When the weather gets really hot, you’ll love the Saint Sauveur Water Park .

Bromont  is a great choice for a 1-day road trip from Montreal. This city features a range of attractions to suit anyone looking to get active outside. You’ll find plenty to do in Bromont all year long.  

In  Old Bromont , peruse the restaurants, shops, and historical buildings. In the summer, head to  Mont Soleil  for an agility and adventure course and zipline. Or, choose one of the area's best hiking trails or lakes to swim in. Bromont also has multiple golf courses. 

Winter in Bromont is great for fat biking, winter hiking, snowboarding, cross-country and alpine skiing, and most other winter sports.  Parc des Sommets  and  Ski Bromont  are some top destinations around the city for these activities.

Visit Lavender Fields

• Drive time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Head to Passion Lavande if you want to check out country side places around Montreal and support a family-owned business. This lavender and sunflower farm features flower-lined trails, blooming flower fields, and artisanal shopping from June to September.

At Passion Lavande, you can walk through the fields and shop for locally made natural products. The Passion Lavande shop on site features a Quebec-made selection of natural cosmetics, hair products, aromatherapy, and food. Everything is inspired by lavender and sunflowers!

Passion Lavende is a good place to stop between Montreal and Quebec City, and between Montreal and Trois-Rivieres.

Mount Sutton

Mount Sutton is one of Quebec’s top places to go near Montreal during any season. Whether you’re searching for summertime thrills or ideal winter sports conditions, you’ll find it here.

Mount Sutton offers an extensive Disc Golf course and intense mountain biking trails. You’ll also find the famous Zipline Coaster , looping through the forest at exhilarating speeds, or the Chairlift Ride for those who want to take it slow. These run seasonally in the summer.

At Au Diable Vert , you will find a 1000 meters canopy cycling circuit, which is the only of its kind in Canada.

In the wintertime, visit the Tomahawk Snowpark to try out snowboarding tricks. Sutton is also known for some of the best glade skiing in Canada!

Face wildlife like never before at Omega Parc . This safari experience from your car is one of the most unique day trips from Montreal. It just may become core Quebec memory for your whole family.

Cruise down the car trail to observe an array of Canadian creatures. It’s more than likely the friendly deer will even approach your vehicle, looking to be fed carrots!

At Omega Parc, you’ll learn more about the 11 First Nations of Quebec along the First Nations Trail. You can also let your children meet animals at the petting zoo. Although Omega Parc is open year-round, the events may change seasonally.

Parc Omega Transport & Tour

There’s no need to rent a car with this private tour of Parc Omega and Montebello Lodge . Let your guide take the wheel so you can enjoy both the park and Montebello Lodge, North America’s largest log cabin.

Granby Zoo exudes family fun with three parks to discover. Open year-round, the Animal Park is home to over 1800 animals. Then in summer, you can enjoy Amazoo Water Park and the 10 thrilling rides at the Amusement Park (also open in autumn).

But if you want to see the zoo from a different angle, take a bus journey through it with this Full Day Granby Zoo Tour . Minimal effort and maximum impact!

Day Trip from Montreal to Mont Tremblant National Park

Mont Tremblant National Park is one of the top places to visit outside Montreal for an active day outdoors. It’s also featured on our list of the top 10 national parks in Quebec . From picturesque hikes to winter sports galore, Mont Tremblant has plenty of trails perfect for every season.

Visitors can go golfing at an array of courses. Or, head to Via Ferrata for an adrenaline rush, scaling the mountainside from June to October. 

In winter, tackle slopes with trails suited to every level of skier and snowboarder. You can also snowshoe through the park to enjoy the scenic snowscapes.

Before heading back, stop by the quaint pedestrian village at Tremblant Resort. Here, dine at over 30 restaurants and browse local products in the boutiques.

Mont Tremblant Transport From Montreal

To see Mont Tremblant without dealing with car rentals and bus transfers, check out this Private Day Tour . The best part is that it can be adapted to suit your taste. The guide also provides commentary during the drive and helpful food and activity recommendations so you get the most out of your day.

Trois-Rivières

• Drive time: 2 hours

Trois-Rivières is one of the top places to visit outside Montreal for historical village atmospheres. Founded in 1634, this city is a hub of Quebecois culture.

You can spend the day exploring historic neighbourhoods around Rue des Ursulines . Then, learn about the Ursuline Sisters’ impact on the area at Musée Des Ursulines . Get familiar with local art at the Québec Museum of Folk Culture , or tour the Old Prison .

If you’re in Trois-Rivières in August, you’re just in time for the Grand Prix race! You can also enjoy some peak birdwatching at the Lac-Saint-Pierre Biosphere Reserve .

Ontario Getaways from Montreal

• Drive time: 2 hours and 15 minutes

The city of Ottawa is a great choice for a 1-day road trip from Montreal, offering a glimpse into Ontario. In Ottawa, you’ll find endless opportunities to learn about Canadian history and culture.

Here, you can plan a day of museum hopping and historical monument sightseeing. You’ll have access to places like Parliament Hill , the Canadian War Museum , the Canada Aviation and Space Museum , and the Canadian Museum of Nature .

If you’re looking for an urban park with gorgeous views, stroll along the Ottawa Locks . Art fans will want to stop by the National Gallery of Canada . The city of Ottawa will give you a whole new perspective on Canada.

Enjoy Your Day Trip!

No matter the season, there are endless day trips from Montreal for every type of visitor. You’ll surely be able to find exactly what you’re looking for a short distance from the city. Whether you’re craving Quebecois delicacies from local farms, the perfect skiing conditions, family-friendly fun, or outdoor activities in the summer, you can find it all with a day trip from Montreal.

About the Author

Anne was born and raised in Quebec City. She is our resident expert for the city of Quebec and other popular regional destinations such as Charlevoix and Gaspésie. Having travelled to every corner of the province with her children, she is also our expert for family related topics on Quebec Wonders.

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20 amazing day trips from Montreal, less than 2 hours away from the city

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Montreal is such a special city! There’s always something going on – from new restaurants to events, festivals and a booming nightlife that allows you to dance into the early hours of the morning. But sometimes it can get hectic and you just want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Luckily, there are plenty of day trips to take within 2 hours of Montreal. These lovely short road trips will make you think you’re in a completely new place, without having to go super far. And with the current price of gas, this list couldn’t come at a better time.

If you’d rather go on a longer trip, you can check out the best weekend trips from Montreal in our full article here . And if you’re looking for epic road trips all around the provice of Quebec, we have an article about the 15 most iconic drives .

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For more information, please see our disclaimer here . We take all the efforts necessary to ensure the information included in this post is accurate, correct and current, sometimes, things just change! Travel information like opening hours, business operations and prices may change. If you find anything in this post that is incorrect or outdated, please let me know in the comments so I can update it for other readers. Cheers!

We love helping you plan amazing trips. If you need any of these services, consider booking them through our affiliate links. Without costing you anything extra, you will be helping support us so we can continue to write these blogs for you.

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Table of Contents

The 20 best short trips from Montreal

Before we get started on our list of amazing day trips from Montreal, here’s how we’ve broken it all down for you.

As always, we broke down the list by how far each of the places is to make it easier for you to plan your trip. We’ve also grouped them by region, so if you want to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway from Montreal, you still can.

These short trips from Montreal are great if you’re looking to visit one place, or make it an epic road trip and group them together for a longer vacation getaway.

6 best day getaways from Montreal that are around the island

Here are the best super short trips from Montreal. So short that you barely have to leave the city! These places are easily accessible from the island. They’re either on the North or South shore of the island. So if you’re looking to go for a full day trip or just an afternoon or a morning exploration, they’re the perfect places to visit near Montreal!

1. Head to Montreal’s closest national park, les Îles de Boucherville, the perfect short trip from Montreal

One of our favorite places to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city is escaping to the Îles de Boucherville national park . This beautiful park has a ton of activities to offer, in the summer like the winter. It’s located a mere 20km from Montreal. This national park has 5 little islands in the heart of the Saint-Lawrence River – the perfect playground for nature lovers.

Beyond its 21 kilometers of multi-purpose trails, you can also go hike, kayak, canoe, rabaska, bike, or play beach volleyball in the summer. Or you can go snowshoe, hike, cross-country ski, or kicksled in the winter. Year-round, you can spot quite a few birds (over 200 different species, actually) and even white-tailed deer.

If you’re looking for the best national parks near Montreal, including more information about the Îles de Boucherville park, make sure you check out our article here . If you plan on taking a longer road trip, you can check out our article about the best national parks in Quebec too.

Beyond the national park, Boucherville is also home to Parc de la Frayère , where you can catch an epic sunset, watch the water birds or explore the fauna in the marshes.

You can also head to the New Deal Brewing Co , a local microbrewery where you can enjoy some local beers. Beyond supporting a local company, you also get to help them with their mission to minimize their ecological footprint all while supporting their tangible social involvement in their community. That’s pretty awesome!

Whether you only visit the park or decide to venture out into the town, there are plenty of things to do in Boucherville. This should keep you busy most of the day. This place is the perfect day getaway near Montreal!

2. Discover Mont-Saint-Hilaire, a picturesque Monreal day trip

Mont-Saint-Hilaire is a gorgeous area near Montreal. It’s one of those places that feels so far, but it’s only a short drive from Montreal.

One of the best things to do in Mont-Saint-Hilaire is to hike the trails of the Gault Nature Reserve . This park is owned by McGill University. The reserve protects more than 1,000 hectares of natural forest, hosts 25 km of trails, and offers four viewpoints of Lake Hertel.

The trails at the Gault Nature Reserve are not very hard, but they tend to get quite crowded on weekends. Apart from hiking, the Reserve has a ton of conservation efforts you can learn more about. You can go bird watching in warmer months, or go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. There’s also a little beach by Lake Hertel where you can plop down, have a picnic and enjoy the view.

If you’re looking for the hikes near Montreal, including more information about the Gault Nature Reserve, make sure you check out our article here .

You can also visit the Vignoble Les Murmures , where you can enjoy some local wine. Or, head to Brasseurs du Moulin for beer tasting and discoveries. Another option is to head to one of the many apple orchards around. In the fall, you can go apple-picking. You can also visit them year-round and try their apple ciders or one of their many apple products.

Another great option, especially on a rainy day, is to visit the Musée des beaux-arts de Mont-Saint-Hilaire , their amazing museum. There are always great expositions going on. Or if you just want to relax, check out the Strom Spa in town.

Mont-Saint-Hilaire is a quiet place where you can enjoy some of the best outdoor activities, only a short drive from Montreal. Perfect for a day trip or an afternoon getaway!

3. Head to St-Jean-sur-Richelieu for a quick day trip near Montreal

Located about 40 minutes south of Montreal, you have the historic town of St-Jean-sur-Richelieu. For Montrealers, this is the hot air balloon mecca, and it’s a great place to explore if you want things to do around Montreal.

This is where you’ll find the Chambly Fort , a historic monument and boardwalk along the water. You can walk or bike along the path and enjoy views of the locks and boats passing by. There are also a few restaurants and terrasses where you can enjoy a bite to eat while gazing out. In the winter, you can skate along the path in nature at the Roland-Beauregard park perfect during the day or at night.

But what makes St-Jean-sur-Richelieu so special is the hot air balloon festival that takes place here every summer. In mid-August, the International Hot Air Balloon festival takes place here. For one week, the largest number of balloons in the country take flight in this town. The festival brings to town music, food tastings, carnival rides and games and a ton of other activities. It’s truly a great experience!

4. Check out the different spots in the South of Montreal, perfect for a Montreal day trip from the city

The South shore of Montreal has a ton of different places to check out. This makes it one of the places to escape from Montreal.

Sure, you have the Îles de Boucherville national park, but you also have the Saint-Bruno national park. You can also hike in Mont-Saint-Hilaire. There are plenty of parks and hiking trails all around the Montérégie region, on the south shore of Montreal.

Another great place to visit is the Chambly Fort, where you can walk along the path on the water. It has exceptional views. The Strom Spa in Mont-Saint-Hilaire is the perfect place to disconnect from the hectic pace of Montreal and enjoy a relaxing moment.

The region of Montérégie, on the south shore of Montreal, has a ton of things to offer, no matter what you’re looking to do. From indigenous art and culture to foodie finds, museums and beaches, there is so much to discover on the south shore, just a short drive from Montreal.

5. Explore Oka, a beach, hiking trails and culture so close to Montreal

Oka is another fan favorite of Montrealers. It’s easy to see why! There’s so much to do in such a small place, and especially, a short drive from Montreal.

The national park in Oka is less than a one-hour drive from Montreal. Here you can find one of the province’s best beaches, especially when it comes to being so close to the city. It does tend to get crowded, mainly on weekends when the weather is nice. But it’s still a great outing and a short drive from Montreal.

Another great thing about this park is that you can visit a complex of historic buildings that are unique in America and the wetlands. Plus, it’s the perfect place to get a view of the Lac des Deux Montagnes and the Adirondacks. In the summer, other than the beach, you can go hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. In the winter, you can explore the trails on a fat bike or kicksled. You can also go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Oka is also home to many historic places like the Oka Abbey and the Calvaire d’Oka , where you can also hike. Or you can check out the pristine Lac des Deux Montagnes (Lake of Two Mountains). At the Abbey , you can also go and taste the famous Oka cheese. This is one of Derek’s favorite cheeses. It was first produced here by trappist monks and has been a staple of Quebec cheeses for over a hundred years.

Whether you’re looking to chill on a beach, go hike or explore the rich history of the area, Oka makes for a great day trip from Montreal.

6. Discover the North shore of Montreal, one of the best road trips from Montreal

Beyond exploring Oka, the North shore, from Laval to Saint-Jerome, has so much to offer those looking for a quick getaway from Montreal.

Ok, if you say ‘Laval’ to Montrealers, they will automatically think of the Carrefour Laval Mall, one of the largest malls close to Montreal. Or they’ll think about the insane amount of traffic there is to get there. But there are so many places to explore in such a short distance from Montreal.

The Parc de la Riviere-des-Milles-Îles is a beautiful park in Sainte-Rose. it’s home to protected wildlife, super calm waters and stunning views over the water. If you’re looking to kayak or canoe, you can rent them here. The Berge aux Quatre vents is another great place. These sandy banks on the river are like having a beach, but not so far from Montreal!

You can also check out the Chateau Taillefer Lafon , a castle in the middle of Laval! Here you can taste the local wines, walk around the grounds and shop their boutique where many local products are sold. The Chateau is dedicated to taking care of the environment, and local producers and businesses in the area.

And if you really want, you can check out the typical Laval things like shopping at Carrefour Laval , watching a movie at the Colesseum , learning about the universe at the Cosmodome , or learning to fly at SkyVenture .

Even though Montrealers often have a rivalry with Laval, there is still plenty of things to do here, such a short drive from Montreal.

3 amazing Montreal day trips in the Laurentians

About 45-minutes to 1.5 hours North of Montreal, you will get to the Laurentians. This area of Quebec is probably one of the most popular places to escape the city, in the summer and in the winter. There’s just so much to do here all year-round.

In fact, the Laurentians are one of the most popular touristic regions in Quebec. With plenty of mountains to hike up or ski down, a bunch of lakes to chill on and rivers to explore, plenty of waterfalls to see, plus a growing foodie scene, there’s something for everyone here!

7. Drive up to Saint-Sauveur for a perfect short day trip from Montreal

Located about 45 minutes driving north of Montreal, Saint-Sauveur is a quaint little town to explore, in the summer and in the winter.

For those who love to hit the slopes, the town of Saint-Sauveur offers many different hills to ride. All these hills are located a quick drive from each other, like Mont-Saint-Sauveur , Mont-Avila , and Mont Habitant . You can also go tubing on the hills, which is super fun to do.

If you don’t want to ski or snowboard, there’s a beautiful park where you can ice skate in the winter. The Parc John-H. Molson Outdoor Skating Rink is an ice trail that goes through the forest. It’s a beautiful place to skate when the cold weather hits. It’s even open at night, with lights along the trail, so you can make a romantic evening out of it!

In the summer, the hills are taken over by waterslides and luges. The waterpark is the best one of its kind in Quebec. If you’ve never tried it, it’s well worth making the trip. It can be tons of fun! However, if you can, try to go during the week as weekends tend to get very busy and crowded, which means long lines in the scorching heat!

Another great option in Saint-Sauveur, as much in the summer as the winter, is to walk around the main part of town, on the main road. There, you will find tons of little local shops and boutiques, as well as a few great restaurants. Crèperie à la Gourmandise Bretonne is one of our childhood favorites!

Saint-Sauveur is a great place to discover on a short trip from Montreal. There’s plenty to do here, especially if you combine it with a half-day activity (which can easily turn into a full day!)

8. Go to Mont-Tremblant, the resort town that’s a great escape from Montreal

Just past Saint-Sauveur, about 1.5 hours from Montreal, you’ll find the most famous (for now) resort town in Quebec. Mont-Tremblant is where you’ll likely run into some celebrities like Catherine Zeta-Jones, Michael Douglas or Laurence Stroll who all own property in Mont-Tremblant.

The Mont-Tremblant resort is where most people choose to go when visiting this area on a day trip from Montreal. This town was created at the foot of the ski resort and is a family-friendly and party-friendly place to hang out for a day or even a weekend ! Here, you’ll find a ton of shops, boutiques, hotels and restaurants. There’s something for every taste, and budget… but it is more expensive than staying in town.

In the summer, or in the winter, you can do a ton of activities here. In the winter, the slopes are the place to be. These hills are the tallest you’ll find within a 2-hour driving radius from Montreal. Other notable hills like Mont-Laurier and le Massif de Charlevoix are much further.

In the summer, you can try rock climbing, riding the luge down the hill, and taking the gondola up the mountain. There’s also the option to zip-line or to check out the night projection show: Tonga Lumina . You can also play golf, go hike at the national park or chill out at the many spas in Tremblant. You can also go white water rafting on the Rivière Rouge if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush. There is no shortage of things to do here!

Mont-Tremblant is also a great place to check out the fall foliage. In mid to late September, the leaves change color and the mountains come alive with bursts of red, orange and yellow! It’s really a beautiful site to see! There’s the Mont-Tremblant national park where you can hike up different hills to get an amazing viewpoint of the foliage.

Depending on what you plan on doing here, you can either spend a day in Mont-Tremblant, or you can easily spend a week. There’s really plenty to do here.

Looking for a place to stay in or around Tremblant? Check out this article where we share the best accomodations near Mont-Tremblant (and all around Quebec). We also have another guide about the best hikes in the Laurentians .

9. Tour the Laurentians on a day getaway from Montreal, one of the best short road trips from Montreal

Of course, if you plan on going on more of a road trip on your day escape from Montreal, you can always tour the Laurentians! There are plenty of cute towns along the way from Saint-Sauveur to Mont-Tremblant (and further).

You can start your short road trip from Montreal in Saint-Sauveur, walk around the town and visit a few stores, you can also go on a tour of the Lac des Sables.

Then, on your way to Mont-Tremblant, or further, you can stop by the cute towns of Saint-Adolphe-D’Howard, Sainte-Adèle, Morin Heights, Sainte-Agathe-Des-Monts, Val David and more.

Another popular way to tour the Laurentians is to ride Le P’tit Train du Nord trail. This is a 234-km cycle path built over an old railway line. It goes from Bois-des-Filion to Mont- Laurier. It’s the longest park of its kind in Canada! You can also rollerblade or walk on the trail.

Sure, you can drive down the highway, but we recommend you take the scenic route instead. This way, you can explore more of the towns and really enjoy the beauty of the regions. Winding roads, hills and lakes, plenty of lush forests await you on your path.

Again, you can stay and visit the Laurentians on a short day road trip from Montreal, or you can stay here all weekend or even longer. There’s plenty to do!

If you want to check out the best hikes in the Laurentians, we have you covered! Discover our full article on all the best hiking trails in the Laurentians of Quebec, and find out exactly what you need to have the best time yet!

4 short road trips from Montreal in the Eastern Townships

Another one of the great Quebec tourist regions to explore is the Eastern Townships . This area has so much to offer in such a short drive from Montreal.

From cute towns to ski hills, bike paths, spas, golf courses, amazing hikes and national parks , wine and microbrewery routes, there’s really something for everyone here.

We have an article that covers all the best things to do in the Eastern Townships. You can find it all here .

10. Visit Orford on a day getaway from Montreal

Orford is the main town you can visit in the Eastern Townships. It’s a great place to base yourself if you’re looking to set up camp and explore for more than a day. If not, the town has tons of things to do.

Orford is home to one of our favorite national parks. At the Mont-Orford National Park, you can find amazing hiking trails that range from the easy to the more challenging. You also have access to bike paths, a beach, lakes and more. In the summer months, you can rent kayaks, canoes, pedalos, SUPs and more. You can also just chill on the beach if you prefer.

The main street in Orford has a ton of great shops and restaurants to hop into. You can also explore the nearby wineries, the lavender field or breweries. At night, the main street comes alive with live music pouring out from the many pubs.

In the winter, you can hit the slopes at Mont-Orford, or snowshoe at the national park. You can also choose to skate on the path they create just on the water. The frozen trail is beautiful to glide on at sunset.

Orford is an amazing place to visit on a day trip from Montreal. There’s just so many different things to do here, in such a beautiful setting.

11. Discover the hidden gem of Coaticook and all its things to do outside Montreal

Not many people think of heading to Coaticook when they go on road trips from Montreal . But this little town has so much to offer.

First, one of our favorite hikes ever is located there. Mont Pinacle is a short 1-hour round-trip hike that has one of the best views for sunset. On weekdays, the trail and the summit are practically empty. The hike is only open from May to November.

There’s also the Coaticook gorge that you can hike. This trail is a great easy one that goes along the gorge, into a cave, up an observation tower and across the longest suspended pedestrian bridge. It’s also home to Foresta Lumina , an illuminated projection experience in the heart of the forest.

Coaticook is also where they make amazing ice cream. So on hot summer days, you can visit the ice creamery, get a tour of the factory and enjoy some delicious ice cream.

You can also hang out on the shores of the many lakes around Coaticook. Lac Lyster is a great little beach where you can chill out and enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake. If you want to stay overnight, there are many camping options around, or you can head back to Orford and stay at Chalets Hygge , our favorite cabins in the Eastern Townships .

12. Discover the scenic town of Sutton, a short day getaway from Montreal

Sutton is another one of those amazing places to discover on a short getaway from the city. Nestled in the mountains, this cute town has so much outdoor fun to offer, as well as some hidden gems too!

Located very close to the US border, Sutton is in a very hilly region of Quebec. It’s no surprise that it’s home to some great ski mountains, like Mount Sutton. Perfect for those who want to rip down the slopes. There are also a few microbreweries around where you can grab a drink for your après-ski, or on a hot summer day.

During the short Quebec summers, you can visit the vineyards in Sutton. Or stop and say hello to the alpacas. Walking around the main town is also really beautiful. Or even just driving around on the Route des Cantons. It makes for fun, scenic and lazy day trips from Montreal.

There’s also the Diable Vert that’s a great place to check out while in Sutton. You can pretty much spend a whole day here. There are hairy Highland cows to admire, the flying bike to ride (VéloVolant), many hiking trails to explore, as well as a lazy river to drift down. Or, if you want more active water sports, you can rent their kayaks or SUPs.

And if you want to spend more than a day here, they have some pretty cool accommodations to book , like treehouses, pods, rustic cabins and more!

Sutton is another one of those beautiful day trips to take from Montreal.

13. Tour the Eastern Townships for your day escape from Montreal

We’ve mentioned already how the Eastern Townships are one of our favorite regions in Quebec. Nestled in the mountains, windy roads, lush forests, plenty of lakes and a burgeoning wine scene! What more could you ask for?!

You can start your journey in Orford and go for a short hike or hang out at the beach at the Mont-Orford national park. When you’re done, head to North Hately, a beautiful town on the water. You can walk around the boardwalk and grab lunch there.

From there, you can drive along the Chemins des Cantons, where you’ll encounter many vineyards and microbreweries as well as so many quaint towns to discover. The Townships Trail takes you around 31 towns in total. Interesting stops include Magog, Frelighsburg, Stanstead, Sutton and Sherbrooke.

If you finish your route in Sherbrooke, make sure you stop at Strom Spa Nordique . It’s the perfect place to unwind and disconnect after a long day of exploring all the fun things to do outside Montreal.

The Townships Trail (or Chemin des Cantons) is probably the best way to discover the very best of the Eastern Townships. On summer days, spend as much time as possible – there are plenty of beaches where you can cool down. In the winter, the vineyards and microbreweries will keep you warm. And on fall days, treat yourself to an old fashion road trip. The colors in this magical landscape will blow your mind!

2 amazing Lanaudière day trips from Montreal

Lanaudière is one of those areas that has not yet been discovered by many Quebecers. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Montreal, and there’s so much to discover in this region.

The main attractions here are waterfalls. They’re really plenty to discover in this area. Plus, with all the mountains around, your drive here will be beautiful!

14. Discover some waterfalls in Lanaudière, near the Seven falls regional park

From Montreal, head toward the Seven Falls Regional Park. Here, you can choose to hike some of the many trails. Some are easy while others are harder. There are quite a few hikes that will give you an amazing view of the Matawinie region.

The main reason to head here is the many waterfalls in the park. An easy hike is the Voile de la mariée (Bride’s veil) which is a short 2km hike that takes you to a beautiful waterfall. More challenging hikes are Mont Barrière (at an altitude of 610 meters) or the rocky ridges of Mont Brassard (at 650 meters).

Once you’re done in this park, you can head to the Chutes à Bull park . They are just 30 minutes apart. Here, you have a ton of short hikes. It’s the perfect park for families to explore.

At the end of the hike, you have the impressive Chutes à Bull that you can admire from many viewpoints. You can also head up the hill there where you will find another viewpoint and platform. This is the perfect place to catch a sunset.

Along the routes in Lanaudière, you’ll find many restaurants and microbreweries to try. But in certain towns, choice is limited. We recommend coming prepared with snacks and maybe lunch, if you have certain dietary restrictions.

If you plan on staying the night, we recommend booking one of these cool pods at Les Boisés de la Rivière Noire .

15. Head to Rawdon and the Dorwin Falls, amazing places to go near Montreal

Another great place to discover in Lanaudière is the area in Rawdon. It’s a cute town with a few fun things to do, either as a full day or as a driving road trip through the area.

Rawdon is a lovely town about an hour or so away from Montreal. It’s full of amazing things to do. Especially for those who want to spend time outside.

First, Rawdon is home to the Dorwin waterfalls. These falls are an impressive 60 feet in height and you can see and feel them crashing down on one of the two lookouts. They are located in a park that bears the same name where you also have 2.5 km of paths to stroll around.

There are also many outdoor activities to do like hiking the many trails of the area, mountain biking or just cycling the paths around, playing golf with friends, or challenging yourself at ‘arbraska’. This is when you go on a path in the treetops, hanging from wires, stepping on planks and nets to get to the end.

And if that’s not enough, you can also check out one of our favorite outdoor spa experiences at La Source Rawdon . It’s a lovely spa with many hot and cold baths that you can dip in and out of.

Rawdon is really a great place to discover and it’s so close to the city. At only an hour away, it’s one of the easiest day trips to take from Montreal.

4 lovely day trips from Montreal in the Outaouais region

Outaouais is another great tourist area in Quebec that hasn’t been explored so much. Which is a great reason why you should head there. Fewer crowds mean more fun. Always!

Although Outaouais is a very large region, we focused on the parts that are accessible within less than a two-hour drive. This means you’ll have more time to explore where you choose to go.

If you want a full guide to all the best things to do in Outaouais, we’ve got you covered. Check out our article here for your Outaouais summer travel guide.

16. Exploring the peaceful Chutes de Plaisance

The Plaisance waterfalls are located about 1h30 from Montreal. This site is great to explore as part of a larger road trip or on a full-day trip from the city.

At a height of 63 meters, the Chutes de Plaisance are a great site to discover. These falls are very easy to access and explore. There’s a large parking lot at the entrance which makes access easy. The first belvedere is a short walk from there.

You also have access to many picnic tables all around the grounds, some at the top of the falls, where you can relax and enjoy the view. If you pack a lunch, you can treat yourself to some delicious food with an epic view.

The hike from the top to the bottom of the falls is about 1 km long. The trail is very well maintained. And at the end of the trail, there is a little beach where kayaks come to dock for a bit, or where you can take a dip. This is another great place to set up shop and hang out for a while.

Although this might seem like too short of a day trip, it’s nice to take some time and chill. The Chutes de Plaisance park is best enjoyed slowly. If not, you can combine it with a trip to the next destination.

Looking for more waterfalls to explore? Check out our full article about the best waterfalls in Quebec .

17. Explore the cute town of Montebello on a day getaway from Montreal

Another cute town to visit in Outaouais is Montebello. This town is home to the renowned Chateau Montebello , which is excuse enough to stay overnight. It’s also where you can experience the Rockfest – a 3-day rock music festival that takes over the main park in town. But on regular days, it’s a quaint town to explore.

One of the best things to do in Montebello is to check out the world’s largest log cabin – The Fairmount Chateau Montebello . This Canadian Landmark is worth exploring in its own right. This is where many international political events took place, like a G7 summit and a NATO meeting as well. It’s also where you can walk on the grounds, play golf, or enjoy one of the 40 activities available on site. However, since the pandemic, access to the Chateau Montebello has been limited to guests only.

Around town, another great place to visit is the Manoir Papineau . You can walk around the beautiful grounds and hiking trails around – it’s actually connected to the Chateau Montebello . Or, you can visit the Manoir itself. Either way, it’s a lovely place to go for a stroll and take in the history of the area.

Other great stops include the Brasseurs de Montebello and the Chocomotive Economusem . The brewery is wonderful on sunny days. You can sit on their terrasse (patio) and enjoy a brew. Best of all, they have quite a few meal options as well, including quite a few vegan dishes!

As for the Chocomotive Economuseum, you can see how chocolate treats are made. This little boutique and chocolatier is a great stop if you’re looking to treat yourself. In the back, you see the master chocolatier make their delicacies. Sometimes, you can test out the treats they make, if not, you can also buy them to take home. Unfortunately, there weren’t any vegan options when we visited.

Walking around the main road is also a fun thing to do, just to take the vibe of the town in. These are all the fun things to do in Montebello on a short trip from Montreal.

18. Explore the Val-des-Monts area, a short drive from Montreal

The Val-des-Monts area is about 40 minutes from Ottawa and around 2h30 from Montreal. It’s such a great region to check out on a day trip from Montreal, especially on a hot summer day.

First, you can start the day off at Eco-Odyssée Nature Park . This is a water maze, walking maze and conservation effort all rolled into one. You can pedalo, kayak or SUP on their water maze where you can discover a few beaver dams. In the winter, you can even go skating on the maze. On Fridays and Saturdays in the summer, after sundown, you can enjoy a projection show here as well.

Around the Eco-Odyssée park, you will also find an Arbraska adventure (trails in treetops) and hiking trails in Nakkertok park . Great for spending time outdoors. You can also explore around the old town of Wakefield, with a mandatory stop at the Wakefield Mill .

A perfect way to spend the afternoon is by going to Nordik Spa in Chelsea. This is North America’s largest outdoor spa. And it’s also home to Kalla, which is one of only two salt water pools in the world. This place is perfect to relax, unwind and chill out. There are also a few lakes in the area that you can visit if you’re looking to hang out by the water.

All in all, this area is so great if you want to reconnect with nature. The scenery is breathtaking with all the mountains and lakes, and there’s so much to explore. If you feel like a day trip is not enough, make sure you book a stay at Hom Mini Chalets . They’re the perfect cabins for couples.

19. Tour the Quebec tourist region of Outaouais on a getaway from Montreal

As we mentioned, Outaouais is a great region to explore, but it’s also very vast. But the parts that are within a two-hour drive from Montreal will give you a sneak peek into what makes Outaouais so special.

Start off by heading to Montebello, and explore the town and some of its main sites. You can then go to the Plaisance waterfalls , only 15 minutes away. This is a perfect way to spend the morning.

After, head for lunch at the Wakefield Mill. Weather permitting, you can sit outside and enjoy the view there. Walk around town – it will make you feel like you stepped back in time.

Then, you can either head to Ottawa for an afternoon of exploring the nation’s capital, or head to the Val-des-Monts area where you can go on an outdoor canoe adventure, or relax at the spa. The possibilities are endless when you explore everything Outaouais has to offer.

Want to discover all the best things to do in Outaouais? Check our full article out here .

A last fun day trip from Montreal in Ontario

Our last day getaway from the city will take you to Ontario. Specifically to Ottawa. If you’re exploring the Outaouais region, it’s a great place to stop, as you’ll probably be driving through here.

In the summer like in the winter, there are some great things to do in Canada’s capital city.

20. Discover Ottawa on a quick day trip near Montreal

Located just under two hours away from Montreal, Ottawa is a great place to visit on a day trip or a longer weekend getaway .

A classic trip includes a stop at Parliament Hill. The Neo-Gothic building is an iconic part of Ottawa’s landscape and is the home of the Canadian legislature. The Canadian Museum of History and the National Gallery of Canada are definitely worth visiting, especially on really cold or rainy days. Both places will give you a view into Canada’s history, diversity, art and culture.

There are also plenty of great little boutiques and restaurants to check out all over the city. Walking or cycling around are great ways to take it all in. You can also walk through Major’s Hill Park. It’s an urban green space located among some of the most notable buildings in Ottawa, including Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, the U.S. Embassy, and the Byward Market. In the spring, it’s the perfect place to check out the Dutch tulips.

And of course, a stop at the Rideau Canal is a must. The canal connects the city of Ottawa to Lake Ontario. On summer days, it’s the perfect place to go biking or sail through it by boat. And what’s really cool is that on winter days, you can go ice skating on it.

Ottawa is a great little day trip from Montreal, any time of year, on weekends or weekdays!

Top 20 best road trips from Montreal

There you have it! 20 amazing places you can get away to on short day trips from Montreal. Of course, there are plenty of other towns to visit, but these are the ones that have the best to offer and explore in a short timeframe.

As a recap, here they are again:

• Ile de Boucherville
• Mont-Saint-Hilaire
• Saint-Jean-sur Richelieu
• South of Montreal
• Oka National Park
• North of Montreal
• Saint-Sauveur
• Mont-Tremblant
• Tour of the Laurentians
• Tour of the Eastern Townships
• Parc régionnal des septs chutes & Chutes à Bull
• Rawdon & Chutes Dorwin
• Chutes de Plaisance
• Val des Monts area
• Tour of Outaouais

Let us know in the comments which of these you’re most excited to visit. Are there other towns or regions that we should add to our list? What are some of your favorite places to explore on day trips from Montreal?

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The 5 Best Day Trips From Montreal

By Todd Plummer and Isa Tousignant

Presented by Destination Canada

Whether you go south towards the Eastern Townships or north towards the Laurentians, there's good, green fun to be had within an hour or two's drive of Montreal. From lakes and ski slopes , to fields of farm-fresh produce dotted with wineries , cheeseries , and maple syrup shacks—it's all there. And if it's an urban experience you're after, drive three hours westward to hit Québec City, or two hours in the opposite direction for Ottawa . Both are capitals for a reason, and wonderful spots from which to soak up unique and distinct aspects of Canada. Read on for our favorite Montreal day trips, and how to make the most of them.

Read our complete Montreal travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

EASTERN TOWNSHIPS

Full of flat farmland and soft rolling hills that recall landscapes from New England or even the U.K., the Eastern Townships spread southeastward from Montreal and engulf picturesque towns like North Hatley, Eastman, Knowlton, Frelighsburg, and Sutton. Each is a worthy destination for a road trip, or as touch points for tasting restaurants and wineries along the way.

Stay: Manoir Hovey Arrow

A luxurious Relais & Châteaux property in a lush, beautiful area of Québec on the shore of Lake Massawippi, Manoir Hovey is a great place to see nature without experiencing any loss of comfort. Montrealers come here for a little hit of country, and the fine dining at Le Hatley restaurant draws crowds for its inventive gastronomy. The rooms are cozy to the max, with feather duvets, French doors, and views of the lake.

Drink: Vignoble de l'Orpailleur Arrow

L'Orpailleur brings 40 years of experience making wines in one of the country’s most marginal climates, and its shop (and tasting room) is a must-stop for any oenophile traveling through the Eastern Townships. Its signature white is the L'Orpailleur Blanc, a blend of vidal and seyval grapes, which expresses the classic Quebec white-wine character to a tee. It’s light dry, fresh, and very delicate, with notes of green apple, white flowers, and citrus. Another favorite you'll have to try is the La Part des Anges—literally, "the angels' share"—a sweet fortified wine with hints of walnut, prune, roasted grains, butter, and caramel. (It was twice a winner in the Grands vins du Québec contest.)

Eat: Les Sucreries de l’Érable

Located in a space that was formerly a general store on the main street of Frelighsburg, Les Sucreries de L'Érable still has the floor-to-ceiling wood shelving and beautiful aged counters of its previous incarnation. Instead of cough drops and tinctures and flour by the pound, though, what you can buy here now is jars of jam, bottles of maple syrup, and an aromatic array of baked goods, from pies to brownies to crunchy-edged dishes of eggy bread pudding. 

Anna Borges

Jessica Puckett

Karthika Gupta

Do: Mount Pinacle Arrow

Also known as Harold F. Baldwin Park, Mount Pinacle is the perfect place for a great view with only moderate effort. There's a well-maintained, two-kilometer hiking path where you might spot deer and can bird watch for local peregrine falcons. The view from the top is just the sort of expansive, hilly vista to reward you for the journey. Find a comfortable spot on the lava-rock hilltop and look down upon Lake Lyster and the fields beyond—there's a reason this region is known as the province's bread basket.

Eat: Bistro Kapzak Arrow

Bistro Kapzak is all about Polish comfort food. Chef and owner Jason Kacprzak mixes Québécois ingredients with a traditional approach to Polish home cooking, with his menu ranging from classic dishes like toothsome potato pierogies, smoked sturgeon served with zingy citrus chutney, butter-poached cod, and smoked kielbasa—to more typically French-Canadian dishes prepared with his inimitable twist. A plateful of crusted veal, for example, is served with herbaceous green spätzle; a braised duck breast is infused with local honey and beer.

The Canadian capital, Ottawa is a beautiful, culturally rich city thanks to landmarks like the National Gallery of Canada, Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal and ByWard Market—all only a two-hour drive from Montreal. If you stay overnight, plan for entertainment in advance by buying tickets for a show or play at the National Arts Centre.

Stay: The Metcalfe Hotel Arrow

Though Ottawa boasts some famous grande dames, this modern boutique hotel downtown reopens this summer after a fabulous renovation. The peerless location, large rooms, and fresh in-room amenities such as jetted tubs remain the same (albeit a little facelift), but the addition of a new restaurant will surely cause some buzz around town for guests and locals alike. The open-plan lobby, at the ground floor of a five-story-high atrium that houses the rooms, has a striking industrial-chic vibe. It's not the most romantic property in town, but it's the most seamlessly on point. You'll sleep well, work easily, and be right in the middle of things.

Eat: The Whalesbone Arrow

When The Whalesbone opened its original (tiny) location on Bank Street in 2001, it gained fame as a premium seafood restaurant in a fish-starved town. The sourcing here goes above and beyond quality—the seafood served is all sustainable and in great part local, reserving oyster selections, for example, to Canadian oyster farms. You can't come here without ordering a dozen raw bivalves on the half shell, but the rest of the menu will beckon with its luscious surf 'n turf, too. There's a pasta, for example, that adds chorizo and salty grana padano cheese to a mountain of clams.

Do: National Gallery of Canada Arrow

This impressive landmark designed by Canadian architect Moshe Safdie as a contemporary reflection of the classic architecture of Parliament Hill, which it faces across the Rideau Canal, is the country's national gallery and looks the part. It's grand, light and houses an impressive collection—think French Impressionists, Dutch masters, and works from the Italian Renaissance, plus a great selection of modern and contemporary Canadian art—and plays hosts to blockbuster traveling exhibitions, too.

Do: ByWard Market Arrow

Dating back to 1865 but completely up to date as a much-used public space, this festive market retains its neighborhood feel while providing an exciting bustling atmosphere. From one-of-a-kind jewelry and clothing design shops to locavore food stalls, ByWard will give you an instant sense of place. On weekends, this happy place teems with locals doing their weekly shop alongside hundreds of visitors; but for less of a crowded experience, go on a weekday before or after lunch at one of the dozens of restaurants located in and around the market.

Drink: Soif Bar à Vin Arrow

Sommelier Véronique Rivest is world-famous, let alone Canada famous, and this small space is where she's settled after taking the wine world by storm. The 120-plus bottles on Soif's ever-transforming wine list have the element of surprise in common; although they're not all big, bold showstoppers, they're all noteworthy and truly memorable, either because they challenge the palate, because they come from little-known wine regions, or because they're simply the very best possible complement to chef Jamie Stunt's menu of seasonal small plates.

QUÉBEC CITY

For a real taste of Canada’s European past, a day trip to Québec City, three hours away from Montreal, is de rigueur—it’s like Old Montreal times a thousand. The ancient architecture mixes seamlessly with contemporary life, and thanks to its position on a hill by a cliff looking onto the St. Lawrence River, the views from various parts of town are just spectacular.

Stay: Auberge Saint-Antoine Arrow

Located in Québec City's Old Port on Îlot Hunt, an area facing the St. Lawrence River, Auberge Saint-Antoine is a Relais & Châteaux property filled with artifacts that date nearly as far back as the city's foundation. Its contemporary services, décor, furnishings, and tech amenities anchor the Auberge Saint-Antoine firmly in the present, making it a top-level stay. Rooms overlook the River on one side and the courtyard on the other, so pick lodgings with a view if possible. Each of the 95 rooms is unique, featuring its own antiques and local designer touches. (And we wish every hotel had one of the Auberge's ingenious "Do Not Disturb" buttons next to their beds.)

Do: Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec (MNBAQ) Arrow

The Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec (MNBAQ) houses historic and contemporary Québec art, but includes international touring exhibitions by the likes of Berthe Morisot, Alberto Giacometti, and the photographer Philippe Halsman. The new contemporary art pavilion was designed by an architectural power duo—OMA of New York and Provencher Roy of Montreal—and the collection ranges from the 18th century to the modern day. If you're short on time, head straight for the contemporary pavilion.

Do: Maison de la Littérature Arrow

Embrace a unique element of Québec culture with a visit to the Maison de la Littérature, a gorgeous building—half historic church, half new modernist-style addition. The brilliant white interior with mile-high ceilings makes a naturally edifying setting for hearing lectures, seeing exhibitions, or browsing French books. The space is entirely dedicated Québec literature, with a fully stocked library and fantastic work tables for writing, reading, and taking a load off.

Do: Plaines d'Abraham Arrow

This giant expanse of green grass, the site of a 1759 battle, is where anyone who calls contemporary Quebec City home can relax and have fun. The view of the St. Lawrence River and the city of Lévis is really something to behold. Kids will love rolling down the hill behind the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec, while adults have miles and miles of parkland (242 acres, if you count the surrounding Battlefields Park) and paths to stroll.

Eat & Drink: Buvette Scott Arrow

Enjoy natural wines by the glass and interesting Quebec beers at this casual, youthful bar in Quartier Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Beer lovers will love exploring the selection of the local small-batch brews on tap and by the bottle, from solid stouts like Le Puck to sour creations like the Blue Bell by La Souche. There is also a lovely selection of privately imported biodynamic and natural wines, all reasonably priced. If you're unsure where to begin, ask the staff for advice. The food goes beyond pub grub; in fact, it's some of the best in town. Chef and owner Jean-Philippe Lessard turns out dishes based on local, season ingredients, all meant to be shared with friends.

Eat: Légende Arrow

At Légende, chef Frédéric Laplante's progressive approach to farm-to-table fine dining in Old Québec means everything in his kitchen is from Quebec—everything. That means no lemons, avocados, tropical fruits, or black tea—not even black pepper. You'll taste pure boreal flavors here, which may include seasonal hits like a seafood platter entirely drawn from the St. Lawrence River, Cornish hen paired with herbed gnocchi and oyster mushrooms, elk carpaccio with tofu crumble and golden sea-buckthorn berries, and seared scallops with smoked duck, fennel, and Nordic shrimp. Get the $95 tasting menu for the full experience.

MONT TREMBLANT

Eastern Canada’s best winter sports resort has a reputation for its ski slopes and adorable European-style village—but any Montrealer will tell you that, at just under 90 minutes from the city, Tremblant is an enjoyable diversion at any time of year. In the warmer months, it’s a great place for hiking, road and mountain biking, water sports on Lac Tremblant—and in the fall it’s a stunning place for leaf peeping. There are just enough restaurants and bars for refueling while you’re here, as well as a charming hotel or two, in case you decide to make an overnight of it.

Stay: Hotel Quintessence

With a perfect location on the shores of Lac Tremblant, yet conveniently situated walking distance from town, the Quintessence offers a boutique experience that’s unique—and not just for a mountain resort town. The Restaurant La Quintessence offers a fine dining experience that blends French influences with Québecois ingredients: If you’re looking to splurge on a dinner while you’re in town, this is where to do it. Each of the 30 suites offer wood-burning fireplaces, luxurious king-size beds, and superb views over the lake, as well as private balconies from which to take in all that mountain air.

Do: Hike Mont Tremblant

During the warmer months, accessing the resort town’s trail network is simple and free of charge. Clearly marked trails ranging in length and difficult zig-zag the mountain and surrounding woods. Keep an eye out for waterfalls, birds, and the occasional deer.

Do: Scandinave Spa

Steam baths, Finnish saunas, plunge pools, waterfalls, zero-gravity chambers—there’s something about a Scandinavian-inspired spa experience that just feels right in a Canadian landscape. A sprawling indoor-outdoor spa, Scandinave Mont Tremblant is a worthy excursion after a long day of hiking—or if you’re just in need of a few hours away from your phone to inhale some eucalyptus steam in peace.

Eat: sEb l’artisan culinaire

These days, there’s a fresh crop of chefs in the Laurentians out to prove that mountain cuisine is anything but boring. At sEb , chef Sébastien Houle, cooking in a place like Tremblant is a “culinary odyssey.” His menu is a mix of locally-sourced ingredients prepared with international flavor, like coquille St-Jacques scallops with leeks and chicory, or pork cheeks with rosemary and maple syrup. If you’re feeling adventurous, order the four course tasting menu for $70.

Eat: BeaverTails

Yes, it’s a chain (stay with us here) for fried-dough goodies—but a Canadian one. It’s definitely not diet-friendly, and may even be a little hokey—but there's something about biting into a giant, warm piece of beaver-shaped fried dough slathered with sweet—or savory!—topping that feels like a quintessential Tremblant experience. (Our recommendation: Go for the classic, which comes sprinkled with cinnamon sugar.) 

What is it with bucolic, peaceful towns named Hudson? This adorable village under an hour from downtown Montreal is just the right size to conquer in a day trip. With cute places to eat, interesting local places to pick up a souvenir, and plenty of outdoor space to get some fresh air, Hudson (Quebec) is quickly becoming a new favorite for city slickers in search of a reset.

Stay & Eat: Auberge Willow Inn

It often takes a single inn or restaurant to get a once-sleepy town on the radar of city folk, who will then visit and droves, and for Hudson, the Auberge Willow Inn is that place. Chef Danny Smiles leads the way with flavorful, farm-fresh dishes that bring the best of Québec ingredients together (try the whole marinated sea bream for two, or the grilled turnips with seaweed). Upstairs from the restaurant, ten unpretentious rooms make a serious case for turning your day trip into an overnight sojourn, with comfortable touches like USB charging ports and certified-organic bath products.

Do: Jack Layton Park

Leave the mountains to the more adventurous day trippers; the trails you’ll find in Hudson are decidedly low-key, yet peaceful and rewarding. The town’s website has a listing of what’s on offer in town. While there are a few options to choose form, it’s hard to pick a better one than strolling along the river in Jack Layton Park , or the aptly named Sandy Beach.

Take the cheap car ferry across the Ottawa River to Oka, a similarly charming village—the key difference being the presence of a Trappist monastery famous for its creatively named OKA cheese. If you’re a cheese lover, it’s definitely worth sampling. If dairy isn’t quite your thing, Oka is also home to the Labonté de la Pomme apple orchard and cidery, which offers pick-your-own apples in the fall, as well as a fabulous cabane à sucre prix-fixe brunch experience.

Eat: Furley

Wine, charcuterie, and bread—what else does one need? The artisanal craft butchery, bakery and wine bar Furley is the best place in town to stock up on some picnic goodies, and to catch up on your local gossip.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Montreal — Luxury Hotels, Beautiful Parks, and Canada's Best Restaurant Included

Here's where to eat, stay, and explore in Montreal, according to a local.

Best Hotels

• Best Things to Do

Best Places to Eat

Best nightlife, best shopping, best neighborhoods to visit, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

R.M. Nunes/Getty Images

Despite its sometimes divisive language politics, extreme seasons, and chronic traffic headaches, Montrealers, or les Montréalais , are justifiably proud of their distinctive, if idiosyncratic, city — and for good reason. Travel + Leisure readers named Montreal one of their favorite cities in Canada in 2023 .

The sophisticated, French-speaking (yet very bilingual), culturally diverse city lays claim to world-class restaurants, lovely parks, superb art galleries and museums, a dynamic music scene, inspiring 18th- and 19th-century architecture, and vibrant nightlife.

It can also be a lot of fun in the winter , when locals like to get out and celebrate the cold and snow, even extending the revelry at outdoor festivals and concerts at night.

Thom Seivewright, a Montreal expert and former hotel concierge, launched his small-group tour company, Tours Montreal , in the Canadian city in 2016. “Our art scene is on par with cities two or three times our size,” he says. “There’s obviously a big emphasis placed on arts and culture in Montreal.”

There’s a big emphasis on food , too. Montrealers love their bagels, cheeses, poutine, and maple syrup, and they’re loyal to their chef-owned restaurants. “It’s a little gem of a city that has world-class dining — and world-class junk food,” says Seivewright. 

Long known for its exuberant after-dark scene, Montreal has it all, from cocktail bars to Irish pubs, jazz bars to pulsating dance clubs. The city is even planning to create a 24-hour nightlife district .

Here's everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Montreal.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• The fashionable, Parisian-style brasserie and rooftop terrace at Hôtel Le Place d’Armes, a boutique luxury property overlooking Place d’Armes and the Notre-Dame Basilica, attracts locals and tourists alike.
• Designed by American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who was also responsible for New York City’s Central Park, Parc du Mont-Royal is an oasis of greenery in the city center.
• Mon Lapin, a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Little Italy serving natural wines and an ever-changing menu of small plates, was voted Canada’s best restaurant in 2023 . 
• Bar Furco’s lovely terrace becomes lively in the summer during Montreal’s ritual cinq à sept (happy hour).
• Saint Laurent Boulevard, a.k.a. the Main, is a good place to get a glimpse of Montreal’s 19th- and 20th-century immigrant history. It's also the historical dividing line between French and English in the city.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts

Hotel Nelligan

Hotel Nelligan , located in the heart of Old Montreal, was T+L readers' favorite city hotel in Canada in 2023 . Spanning four 19th-century graystones, the 105-room boutique property lies near the Notre-Dame Basilica and Old Port waterfront. Its seasonal rooftop terrace is a summer favorite for its picturesque views and lively happy hour.

Hôtel Place d’Armes

Another T+L reader favorite, Hôtel Place d’Armes is housed in four 19th-century neoclassical buildings opposite the Notre-Dame Basilica. The property is highly rated for its tasteful rooms featuring hardwood floors and brick walls, swanky French brasserie , and popular rooftop terrace. 

Hôtel Uville

One of the city’s newer hotels, opened in 2020, Hôtel Uville got its name thanks to its location in Old Montreal’s Place d’Youville. Uville is part design hotel, part museum — a love letter to the Montreal of the 1960s and '70s. This was transformative period, a time when francophone Quebecers were turning away from the Catholic church and leading the charge in North America vis-à-vis cuisine, style, and design — the culmination of which were Expo 67 and the 1976 Olympics.

“This hotel is very cool,” says Seivewright. “They did a great job. The details, like the tiled bathrooms and custom-made wallpapers, are amazing. They’ve got archival photos and artifacts from the '60s and '70s in each of the rooms, and documentary films from the National Film Board that you can watch on your room’s TV.”

The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal

Montreal’s grande-dame hotel, the Ritz-Carlton , opened in 1912 in the city's Golden Square Mile. In addition to housing chef Daniel Boulud's Maison Boulud , the refined property offers afternoon tea in the ornate Palm Court and seasonal garden terrace, Spa St. James, and an indoor saltwater pool.

Four Seasons Hotel Montreal

Located in Golden Square Mile since 2019, the posh  Four Seasons Hotel Montreal is connected via a third-floor walkway to the luxury department store Holt Renfrew Ogilvy . The hotel boasts Marcus Restaurant + Terrace, in partnership with legendary Manhattan chef Marcus Samuelsson; a Guerlain Spa; and a skylit swimming pool with an upstream current generator.

Best Things to Do 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Parc du Mont-Royal

What Central Park is to New Yorkers and Hyde Park to Londoners, Parc du Mont-Royal, or Mount Royal Park, is to Montrealers. At 764 feet high, Mount Royal may not be much of a mountain, but the park is, as Seivewritght says, “the heart and soul of the city.” He adds, “The fact that Montreal is a four-season city and Mount Royal is a four-season park makes it even better because you’ve got skiing, skating, and tobogganing in the wintertime. And in the summer, you can go biking and walking.” You can also go for a picnic and rent a rowboat or Mölkky or spikeball equipment at Beaver Lake. 

Old Montreal

With its graystone buildings and narrow streets, Old Montreal can sometimes feel like a slice of Europe in North America. Certainly no visit to Montreal is complete without a stop here. Not only will you find the city’s most important historic landmarks, including the Notre-Dame Basilica , the 18th-century Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel , the Second Empire-style City Hall, and the neoclassic Marché Bonsecours , but it’s also home to pretty boutique hotels, haute-couture shops, and chef-owned restaurants.

Pointe-à-Callière

A national archaeological site, Pointe-à-Callière , now an impressive archaeology and history museum, sits above the ruins of the birthplace of Montreal. “The Pointe-à-Callière museum is amazing,” says Seivewright. “They’ll take you underground to see the ruins of the original fortifications of Montreal, the original city the French built here in the 1600s.” Visitors can also see Indigenous artifacts uncovered during a dig and part of North America’s first collector sewer, built between 1832 and 1838.

Arsenal Contemporary Art Gallery

Opened in Montreal in an 80,000-square-foot building in 2011, Arsenal Contemporary Art has since expanded to include locations in Toronto and New York City. “Outside of the museums, I would send my clients to certain galleries around town. These days, one of my favorites is Arsenal. It has an amazing [selection] in its permanent collection, but it also puts on temporary exhibits that are just mind-blowing,” says Seivewright.

Montreal is a city of festivals, with everything from jazz (the city hosts the world’s largest jazz festival) to Pride to circus arts celebrated here. There’s even a dedicated festival and outdoor performance space downtown called the Quartier des Spectacles . While there are festivals year-round , May to September is the city’s busiest period.

eyedias/Getty Images

La Banquise

One of Quebec's most beloved foods is poutine, traditionally a mess (translation of "poutine") of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. But poutine continues to get more upscale. A veritable institution since 1968, La Banquise doesn’t claim to be high-end, but the casual eatery serves 35 kinds of poutine and it’s open 24 hours. “La Banquise is a classic. I’m [vegetarian], and in my opinion, the veggie gravies are even more delicious,” says Seivewright. “A lot of people knock La Banquise because it’s popular, but I stand by it.”

Montreal Plaza

The design at Montreal Plaza is elegant and stylish, yet also notable for its eccentric touches like a dollhouse hanging upside down from the ceiling and Elmo sitting on the bar. Even certain dishes, like crudo or oysters, are served atop a toy triceratops or among plastic Smurfs. Chef and owner Charles-Antoine Crête and his team enjoy serving great food in a playful, joyous way. “This is my favorite place,” says Seivewright. “It’s not the just the way the food is prepared or what it is, but the whimsical, creative way it’s presented.”

Sushi Momo , from Mexican-Canadian chef Christian Ventura, is Montreal’s best vegan sushi restaurant. The sleek, dimly lit, botanically adorned space in the Plateau area is inviting, while the artfully plated confections are a feast for the eyes and the fusion of flavors a song for the taste buds.

Nora Gray , a lively, casual restaurant in Griffintown, is known for its southern Italian cuisine, updated cucina povera , and privately imported natural and organic wines. The dark wood, banquettes, long bar, and warm candlelight lend the restaurant an intimate, romantic, and club-like feel. 

Dominique Lafond

Voted Canada’s best restaurant in 2023 , Mon Lapin is a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Little Italy. It serves natural wines and an ever-changing menu of French- and Italian-inspired small plates. Each dish highlights fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients plus unexpected flavor combinations.

Henryk Sadura/Getty Images

Cloakroom Bar

The 25-seat Cloakroom Bar , with a cloak-and-dagger atmosphere, was named Canada’s second-best bar in 2023 . “It’s one of my favorite bars anywhere in the world,” says Seivewright. “It’s hidden behind a menswear shop, which makes it even cooler. It’s very exclusive feeling. You tell them, 'I like gin, I like citrus,' and they’ll create something for you. If you’re three people and you all like the same thing, they’ll create three different drinks.”

Situated in the Plateau Mont-Royal, Diese Onze is an intimate jazz bar that also serves tapas and mains. “I’m a big jazz fan, and I love Diese Onze,” says Seivewright. “It’s a good mix of local and out-of-town musicians.”

Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill

A Montreal institution since 1995, Upstairs is, funnily enough, located in a basement. It attracts big-name international jazz acts who make this a routine stop on their tour itineraries.

Pub Le Sainte-Élisabeth 

Established in 1997, this European-style pub between the Quartier des Spectacles and student-heavy Quartier Latin is quite cozy inside, but it’s the enclosed, leafy terrace at the back that draws people here come summer. The service many not win any awards, but Le Sainte-Élisabeth is about the ambience. 

The minimalist redesign of the Canadian Fur Company building (hence Furco ), located on a downtown back street, is a big draw for wine lovers and the happy hour crowd. It features an adventurous food and wine menu, in addition to more traditional charcuterie and cheese plates.

Maison Marie Saint Pierre

Marie Saint Pierre 's Montreal-made, ready-to-wear pieces marry timeless feminine styles with contemporary flair and function.

Entering this handsome Crescent Street atelier-cum-boutique near the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is like stepping into an old-school European tailor shop. Started by their father, Arthur Der Shahinian, sons Tavit and John carry on the tradition of crafting impeccably fitted and designed bespoke men’s suits and shirts, with damask silk lining and hand-sewn button holes, never compromising on quality or friendly, professional service.

Simons is originally from Quebec City, but it’s popular in cities across Canada. The small, mid-range department store downtown carries popular fashion brands as well as its own collections, in addition to homewares. “I’m a big fan of Simons,” says Seivewright. “I buy half my clothes there. The price point is good, the quality is good, and I like that it’s a local brand.”

Holt Renfrew Ogilvy

Montreal’s answer to Saks Fifth Avenue, Holt Renfrew Ogilvy is a one-stop shop for all things luxury, including clothing, shoes, and accessories. Clients can also enjoy a personal shopping experience in one of the five fifth-floor suites or the glamorous art-deco Café Holt, with its remarkable solar-like orb set above the central bar.

Saint Laurent Boulevard

“Saint Laurent [Boulevard], between Saint Joseph Boulevard and up to Van Horne Avenue, has the best boutique design shopping nowadays,” says Seivewright. “You could go all the way up to Little Italy and it’s still amazing. I was walking there the other day and every single window I walked by made me want to go in. There are furniture shops, clothing shops, and jewelry shops — some of it is new, some of it is vintage, and it’s all local.”

Saint-Henri

Saint-Henri, once a francophone working-class neighborhood, is now gentrified, replete with popular, chef-owned wine bars and restaurants, antiques shops, cafes, and boutiques. Still, it retains pockets of its former self. “I love it because it has parts that haven’t changed in a hundred years and others that make it the most modern neighborhood in Montreal,” says Seivewright. “It’s got a cool, little rough-around-the-edges vibe. It’s one of those neighborhoods where you’ll have a multimillion-dollar home next to a really rundown place, and you see that contrast. Then, you listen to the people and hear French and English. You've got old people, young people — it’s a neighborhood where everything mixes.”

Plateau Mont-Royal/Mile End

Once relegated to working-class European immigrants, the Plateau/Mile End area is the epicenter of Montreal’s creativity and bohemian joie de vivre. Leafy streets lined with triplexes fronted by balconies and steep, often-winding, wrought-iron staircases invite visitors to explore this neighborhood bursting with convivial cafes, top-drawer restaurants , funky vintage shops, and trendy boutiques.

For a glimpse into how the upper crust of Montreal lived until the 1970s and '80s, head to the neighborhood of Outremont. Its two main shopping and dining strips are Bernard Ouest and Laurier Ouest avenues — part of the former turns into a pedestrian-only area come summer, with restaurant terraces sitting directly on the street.

Montreal is a four-season city. Late April to mid-May tends to be best for blooming trees, while October to early November is usually prime for leaf peeping. The holiday season is lovely, but a white Christmas is increasingly rare. For a stronger chance of experiencing the romance of winter snow, January and February are ideal. Summers in Montreal are hot and humid, and heat waves can now begin as early as May. Visit in May, June, or late August through September and October to avoid the worst of the summer temperatures and crowds.

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Montreal can be reached via regular flights with Air Canada, Delta, American, and United. Flying from New York’s LaGuardia to Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, better known as Dorval (YUL), takes about 90 minutes gate to gate. Driving may be cheaper, but it takes about seven hours, and unless you’re planning to pay for hotel parking, parking in Montreal can be a hassle. For travelers living in New York or Vermont, a more scenic and leisurely option (10 hours) is Amtrak’s Adirondack train from Moynihan Train Hall to Montreal’s Gare Centrale (Central Station).

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In summer, the best way to get around is on foot or by Bixi, the city-wide bicycle rental system. In 2023, Bixi decided to end the storage of their bicycles during the winter, so they are now available year-round. However, there are not as many stations as in summer. The metro (subway) is fairly reliable and frequent during rush hour — and often the quickest way to get from point A to point B. Buses tend to be less reliable, but they go everywhere the metro does not. An Opus card can be purchased with several fares added, if you’re planning on using the metro and/or buses often. Taxis and Ubers are readily available, too, and taxis can be hailed on the street.

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14 Adorable Small Towns You Need To Visit This Spring In And Around Quebec

• As spring approaches, a road trip from Montreal is all that so many of us locals can think of.
• MTL Blog figured it's the perfect time to start planning those escapes, so we made a list of cute towns that are worth checking out once the flowers start blooming again.
• See the list below!
• Visit MTLBlog for more headlines.

Montreal is an incredible city, but that doesn't mean that we don't have the right to crave a little escape every now and again — especially as the seasons begin to change. Winter is finally coming to an end, which means that the smell of spring will slowly begin to take over our province, urging us to get in the car and embark on a road trip from Montreal . In and around Quebec, there are so many adorable small towns for us to discover and the months of spring are a great time to do just that. 

Many of us have spent the past few months hibernating in our apartments binge-watching Netflix and brainless reality shows and it is time to go outside and explore everything this world has to offer. 

Although going on an exotic vacation is great, we are fortunate to live in a city that is surrounded by unique and beautiful destinations that are all within driving distance of our little island. So, that means you don't need to travel too far to experience the beauty of something new. 

North Hatley

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Distance from Montreal: 1 hour & 30 minutes

North Hatley may only be 90 minutes away from Montreal but it feels like a different world completely. This picturesque town is home to charming hotels, yummy restaurants and a slew of beautiful sites for you to take in.

Come spring, you're going to want to drive over to North Hatley and see the greatness for yourself.

Morin-Heights

Distance from Montreal: 1 hour & 35 minutes

Morin-Heights has always been a go-to spot for me when I'm looking for a serene escape from the city. This adorable town is the host to a ton of spas, great eateries and everything you'll ever need for a mini escape outside of Montreal.

For those looking to refresh their battery, I highly recommend Morin-Heights in the spring.

Distance from Montreal: 4 hours & 15 minutes

This charming town, located in Rivière du Loup, is known for its epic hike trails, stunning waterfront views, and picturesque bike trails.

If you're looking for an adventure that comes with some killer views, this road trip destination is a great place for you to check out.

Saint Michel de Bellechasse

Distance from Montreal: 2 hours & 45 minutes

Located next to the St-Lawrence River, this picture-perfect town is guaranteed to leave you speechless. From the array of historic buildings to the famous wooden statue of Saint-Michel, this town is not lacking in things to see or do, making it an ideal place to check out this spring.

Port Au Persil

Distance from Montreal: 4 hours & 45 minutes

The first time I went to Port Au Persil, I was in awe with the stunning sites that surrounded me. There are a ton of adorable chalets to rent, as well as a bunch of homemade cider to drink, making this a great spot for your spring escape.

Sainte-Rose-du-Nord

Distance from Montreal: 5 hours & 20 minutes

Sainte-Rose-du-Nord is a quaint town made up of three coves- The Theophile Cove, the High Cove, and the Women's Descent Cove. Each of these breathtaking coves is home to some of the most phenomenal views in the province.

Not only does this town provide you with incredible views but there are a ton of activities like hiking and kayaking for you to participate in come spring.

Scarborough Bluffs

Distance from Montreal: 5 hours & 15 minutes

Scarborough Bluffs truly has everything you need to bring you out of the winter and into spring, from clear waters to epic views, I can almost promise that you'll feel like you have entered a world far away from Montreal.

This destination may be a little further than the others, but once you arrive you'll have forgotten all about the drive!

Notre-Dame-du-Portage

Distance from Montreal: 4 hours & 20 minutes

Known for its magnetic sunsets and epic views of nature, this town is a must for anyone seeking an escape come spring.

From the walking path along the river to the sights of whales swimming by, everything about this town is truly majestic and worth the commute!

Distance from Montreal: 2 hours & 20 minutes

Although Stowe is best known for its ski hills, the town rejuvenates new life throughout the months of spring.

From the magnificent homes to the town which oozes characters, Stowe is a must-see for anyone looking for a weekend escape this spring.

Just be sure to not forget your passport — as this town is on the other side of the border.

Distance from Montreal: 2 hours & 40 minutes

Known as for being an ultra-friendly town, Almonte is a must-visit for anyone looking for a joyous escape this spring.

Although this town is just two hours and forty minutes away, visitors feel like they have entered a universe that is completely different from the hustle and bustle of Montreal.

And, as a bonus, chocolate lovers will be able to satisfy their cravings at Hummingbird Chocolate , which is known to make decadent and mouth-watering cocoa treats.

Burlington 

Distance from Montreal: 1 hour & 25 minutes

Burlington Vermont is known for its small-town charm and abundance of nature. While visiting this picture-perfect town, visitors are immersed in the New England charm and undeniably positive energy.

Come spring, you'll be very happy you took a drive to the other side of the border, all the way to the charming town of Burlington.

Distance from Montreal: 1 hour & 20 minutes

Magog gives off the illusion of entering not only a different time zone but a different era completely.

Throughout the months of spring, visitors can check out vineyards, go on boat tours and indulge in one of the many incredible restaurants in the area.

Baie Saint Paul

Distance from Montreal: 3 hours

This town is most famously known as the birthplace of Cirque du Soleil however, it also happens to be one of the most adorable towns within driving distance of Montreal.

From the rich history to the array of art galleries, restaurants and boutiques there is more than enough to keep you fully stimulated throughout your stay.

Lake Placid

Located in the middle of New York’s Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is best known as the site of the 1980 Winter Olympics, which is a selling point to any sports fan out there.

The town is filled with monuments, museums and a ton of Olympic memorabilia to check out. However, that is not the only thing that I love about this town.

Lake Placid has an old-world vibe that you can't help but fall in love with. The charming town is home to some great restaurants and even more breathtaking sites to check out, all of which are worth the 2 hour and 20-minute drive.

Let's all hope Mother Nature brings spring weather around as soon as possible!

NOW WATCH A Look Inside The Montreal West Island's Colourful New Taco Joint (Video)

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