Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip from Montreal

Old Quebec and the Château Frontenac

Old Quebec, the historic core of Quebec City, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It is the only walled city north of Mexico, with stone ramparts, gates and narrow streets that look like a small French town. The Château Frontenac, a hotel that opened in 1893 above the St Lawrence River, is the landmark that everyone photographs. A guided walk through Quebec City usually starts here, because the building and the terrace in front of it are the heart of the Upper Town.

Your guide gives you the background: how the city was founded in 1608, the story of the French and British periods and the buildings you pass on the way. Then you have time to walk the Dufferin Terrace, look across the river and explore at your own pace. Wear comfortable shoes, since the streets are steep and cobbled.

Petit Champlain and Place Royale in the Lower Town

Below the cliff, the Lower Town is the oldest part of Quebec City. Place Royale is the square where the settlement began, with stone houses from the 17th and 18th centuries and a church at its centre, and Petit Champlain is a narrow pedestrian street of small shops and cafés. You can reach it by the funicular or by the steep stairs, and the walk between the two levels is part of the fun.

This is a good place to look for souvenirs, to have a coffee or to take photos of the murals and old buildings. Ask your guide for tips on where to go, and keep time in mind, since the coach leaves at the meeting time. Meals and drinks are not included, so bring a little money for lunch.

The Plains of Abraham and the city walls

The Plains of Abraham is a large park on the cliff above the river, and the site of the 1759 battle that decided the fate of New France. Today it is a place for walking, picnics and views of the St Lawrence. The Citadelle, a star-shaped fortress, and the stone city walls show why Quebec City was called the Gibraltar of America.

Your guide points out the key sights on the drive and on foot, from the Parliament Building to the walls and gates. Depending on the time, you may see some of these from the coach or on a short walk. Entry tickets to attractions such as the Citadelle are not included in the tour.

Montmorency Falls

Montmorency Falls drop 83 metres over a cliff just outside the city, about 30 metres higher than Niagara Falls. The water plunges towards the St Lawrence River, and in winter it freezes into a huge cone of ice. A Montmorency Falls day trip from Montreal is often paired with Quebec City, as the falls are only a short drive from the old town.

The tour includes a photo stop at the falls, so you can see them from a viewpoint and take pictures. A cable car and a suspension bridge are available at the park and are not included in the tour. Wear a jacket in cooler months, since the spray and the wind near the water can feel cold.