After delving into the rich array of things to do in Montreal, from savoring its renowned culinary scene to exploring its historic neighborhoods, you might find yourself curious about what lies beyond the city’s vibrant streets. Day trips from Montreal offer a seamless continuation of your exploration, leading you to quaint towns, lush vineyards, and scenic landscapes that are just a short drive away.
Venturing outside Montreal, the diverse attractions across Quebec beckon, from the cobblestone streets of Quebec City to the breathtaking beauty of the Laurentian Mountains. These excursions enrich your Canadian journey, offering a glimpse into the province’s cultural depth and natural splendor.
Deciding where to stay in Montreal can significantly enhance your visit, providing a comfortable base that melds the city’s lively atmosphere with the tranquility needed after a day of exploration. A well-chosen location not only puts you at the heart of Montreal’s bustling life but also positions you perfectly for embarking on memorable day trips around Quebec.
Discover Best Day Trips from Montreal, Canada
1. Quebec City, Quebec
Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and the iconic Château Frontenac. It’s a perfect place to experience a slice of Europe in North America.
Distance: Approximately 260 km
Travel Time: The drive from Montreal to Quebec City takes about 3 hours.
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Château Frontenac, Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Château Frontenac: $10 (tour)
- Montmorency Falls: $6
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Terrasse Dufferin, Quartier Petit Champlain, Plains of Abraham
Travel Tip: Walk through the charming streets of Old Quebec to fully appreciate the city’s European charm and history.
2. Mont-Tremblant, Quebec
Mont-Tremblant is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, depending on the season. Its colorful pedestrian village is filled with shops and restaurants.
Distance: Approximately 130 km
Travel Time: It takes about 1.5 hours to drive from Montreal to Mont-Tremblant.
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort, Mont-Tremblant National Park, Pedestrian Village
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- National Park: $8.75
- Ski Resort: $50-$100 (depending on season)
Budget: Approximately $60-$150 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lac Tremblant, Scenic Gondola Ride, La Diable River
Travel Tip: For a unique experience, try the panoramic gondola ride for stunning views of the Laurentian Mountains.
3. Ottawa, Ontario
Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is home to impressive landmarks like Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Rideau Canal. It offers a mix of cultural sights and natural beauty.
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Travel Time: The journey from Montreal to Ottawa is about 2 hours by car.
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Parliament Hill, National Gallery of Canada, Rideau Canal
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Parliament Hill: Free
- National Gallery: $16
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Major’s Hill Park, ByWard Market, Gatineau Park
Travel Tip: Visit during the Tulip Festival in May or skate on the Rideau Canal in winter for a truly memorable experience.
4. Eastern Townships, Quebec
The Eastern Townships, known for their picturesque landscapes and charming small towns, offer great opportunities for wine tasting, cycling, and exploring rural Quebec’s heritage.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Travel Time: Driving to the heart of the Eastern Townships takes about 1.5 hours from Montreal.
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Magog, Lake Memphremagog, Orford National Park
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Orford National Park: $8.75
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Brome Lake, Dunham Wineries, Sutton Mountains
Travel Tip: The Townships are known for their wineries, so consider a guided wine tour to sample some of the local flavors.
5. Laurentian Mountains, Quebec
The Laurentian Mountains are a natural escape offering beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and charming small towns. In the winter, it’s a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: The Laurentians are about a 1 to 1.5-hour drive from Montreal.
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Mont-Tremblant, Mont-Tremblant National Park, Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Mont-Tremblant National Park: $8.75
Budget: Approximately $40-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lac Tremblant, P’tit Train du Nord, La Rivière du Diable
Travel Tip: Visit the Mont-Tremblant National Park within the Laurentians for hiking or canoeing in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter.
6. Burlington, Vermont
Burlington, Vermont, USA, offers a lovely blend of outdoor activities and urban amenities, known for its scenic Lake Champlain waterfront and vibrant Church Street Marketplace.
Distance: Approximately 150 km
Travel Time: Burlington is approximately a 2-hour drive from Montreal, crossing the Canada-USA border.
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Church Street Marketplace, Lake Champlain, Shelburne Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Shelburne Museum: $25
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Waterfront Park, Ethan Allen Park, South End Arts District
Travel Tip: Check border crossing requirements in advance, and don’t miss the opportunity to try some of Vermont’s famous craft beers.
7. Thousand Islands, Ontario
The Thousand Islands region, straddling the Canada-US border along the Saint Lawrence River, is known for its breathtaking scenery, historic castles, and outdoor activities like boating and fishing.
Distance: Approximately 250 km
Travel Time: It takes about 2.5 hours to reach the Thousand Islands from Montreal.
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Boat tours, Boldt Castle, Thousand Islands National Park
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Entrance Fees:
- Boat Tour: $30
- Boldt Castle: $10
Budget: Approximately $60-$120 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Heart Island, St. Lawrence River, Singer Castle
Travel Tip: Take a boat tour to explore some of the islands and visit Boldt Castle on Heart Island.
8. Magog, Quebec
Magog, located by the scenic Lake Memphremagog, is a charming small town with a variety of outdoor activities, including cycling, hiking, and water sports.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Travel Time: The drive from Montreal to Magog is about 1.5 hours.
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lake Memphremagog, Marais de la Rivière aux Cerises, Orford Express
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Orford Express: $60
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Cherry River Marsh, Mount Orford, Magog River
Travel Tip: Visit during the fall for the spectacular foliage, and consider a scenic cruise on Lake Memphremagog.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Montreal, Canada
What are the best day trips from Montreal?
Top day trips from Montreal include exploring the charming city of Quebec City, visiting the beautiful Mont-Tremblant, taking a cruise in the Thousand Islands, and experiencing the cultural and natural beauty of the Eastern Townships.
Is Quebec City a good day trip from Montreal?
Absolutely! Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and charming Old Town. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Montreal, making it an ideal day trip destination.
Can I visit Niagara Falls from Montreal in one day?
While it’s possible, visiting Niagara Falls from Montreal in one day is quite ambitious due to the long drive (about 6-7 hours one way). It’s recommended to plan at least an overnight stay to fully enjoy the experience.
Are there any wine tours near Montreal?
Yes, the Eastern Townships and Monteregie regions offer fantastic wine tours. These areas are known for their picturesque landscapes and boutique wineries, providing a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts.
What activities can I do in Mont-Tremblant?
Mont-Tremblant is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and zip-lining. The village also has shops, restaurants, and spas for a more relaxed experience.
Is there a botanical garden near Montreal that I can visit?
The Montreal Botanical Garden is actually within the city and is one of the world’s greatest botanical gardens. However, for a day trip, consider visiting the Reford Gardens (Jardins de Métis) in the Gaspé Peninsula for a unique botanical experience.
Can I explore Canadian wildlife on a day trip from Montreal?
Yes, Parc Omega, located about an hour’s drive from Montreal, offers a unique opportunity to see Canadian wildlife in their natural habitat. You can drive through the park and observe deer, elk, bison, wolves, and bears.
Are there any historical sites near Montreal worth visiting?
Definitely! The Fortifications of Quebec City, the historic village of Old Montreal, and the Lachine Canal are all significant historical sites worth exploring. Each offers a glimpse into the rich history of Quebec and Canada.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/montreal-l195?activity_type=dayTrip
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