Trip to Montreal & Quebec City (Tips & Must Do’s)

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For Best Trip to Montreal and Quebec City, here are 10 Must-Dos over five glorious days. I planned to celebrate my birthday in September and to revisit Montreal from memories over two decades.

Given the beautiful memories that I created, it was like visiting someplace new. The folks in French Canada seemed surprised that California folks would come so far to see them. It is well worth the 6-hour flight.

This list of 10 must-dos will help you design the best trip ever to Montreal and Quebec City, two very stunning and historic cities. This article is full of magnificent photos to give you a sense of the beauty and culture.

Discover Montreal

1. Find the right hotel

Find a hotel that is central to the cosmopolitan happenings is the best choice. You can choose from Best Western to the Ritz Carlton. This area is called the Golden Square Mile. Click here to start your search for accommodations and airfare that fit your taste and budget.

2. Book a City Tour of Montreal

Find a guide who can explain all of the history and statues all over Montreal and Old Town. We had Frederick as our tour guide, and he was terrific and so well informed. Book your Walking tour with Viator. Underground is a city with shopping and food with access to the subway. In the Financial District there was a piece of the Berlin Wall brought to Canada after the wall was torn down.

3. Immerse Yourself in the History

Through your guide’s commentary, you will come to understand the history, culture, and architecture of the city. When you take a guided tour, Highlights include Architecture and churches that bring the history of the country alive.

4. Stroll Through the Botanical Gardens

Montreal Botanical Gardens are a testament to nature’s beauty, conservation, and co-existence with the environment. Take a few hours to stroll through this oasis and relax along the many paths.

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5. Take the Old Montreal Walking Tour

Be sure to take the Old Montreal walking tour on cobblestone streets and stop for lunch after visiting the storied church at the end of the road.

The Chapel, Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours is also known as the Sailors’ Church. It is the oldest church in Montreal, built in 1665 by a woman, Marguerite Bourgeoys.

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6. Go on a Gastronomic Dining Experience

Eating out is an awakening of the palate. Tasting the French pastries in the morning or the freshly made waffles and French toast are worth waking up. Speaking of waking up for breakfast, I have to share this trendy breakfast spot and a Montreal experience by itself—L’Avenue.

The restaurant has a festive vibe with generous portions and great staff. Even the bathrooms cause conversation with the wall art. Here’s a warning to the wise, be prepared for a long wait, so get your coffee to sip while you wait.

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I also have to share this incredible restaurant for dinner, Ile Flottante. The restaurant has vegan and vegetarian options with wine pairings for each course and the food elegantly presented. This gastronomic experience will have you feeling delighted at the end of the evening. Ile Flottante is a quaint little spot, so reservations are required.

Discover Quebec City

7. Tour Quebec

To make this the best trip ever, discover the heart of Canada with a day tour to Quebec City. French Canada was born in Québec City’s Old City in 1541.

There are buildings older than America. Quebec City’s Old City is a UNESCO Heritage site with all of its history and restored buildings. The people are warm, welcoming, and kind.

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8. Check Out Montmorency Falls

Go to Montmorency Falls, where the Montmorency River drops 272 feet towards St. Lawrence River. The falls can be a stop on the way to Quebec City. Most of these tours book up quickly, so be sure to book in advance at this link with Viator.

9. Walk Around

Walk around Quebec City on the Lower City and take the Funicular (Tram) to the upper level, or you can take the steps. In the upper City, you will find museums, lunch, and shopping, all within walking distance. I was pleased to see a sculpture in the square by Salvador Dali that overlooked the city. There are lots of sidewalk restaurants to people watch and enjoy the local beer and food.

10. Appreciate Art

In Place Royale, an incredible mural is painted in life-size proportions; it is the famous Fresque des Québécois on Côte de la Montagne. A must-see.

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Traveling always has the good and the bad with it. What kept the trip on track was this little carry-on luggage that could go with me everywhere. Check it out. It slips over a larger roller carry-on for easy handling. It was my secret weapon! Be sure to use the tips for packing and moving through the airport faster articles.

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