side trips from montreal

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

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

An email you’ll actually love

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.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tourisme Trois-Rivières (@tourismetr)

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.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Municipalité de Val-David (@village_valdavid)

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.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Church Street Marketplace (@churchstreetmarketplace)

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).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Kingston (@visitkingstonca)

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.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Saratoga Springs (@saratoga_ny)

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.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by White Mountains New Hampshire (@whitemountains)

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.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mont-Sainte-Anne (@montsainteanne)

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.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BTW Berkshires (@btw_berkshires)

More adventures near Montreal

12 really fun things to do in Ottawa

From a basement arcade to the world’s largest escape room and a fun rooftop, here are the best things to do in Ottawa.

The 10 best things to do in Quebec City

Among some of the things to do in Quebec City, check out massive outdoor festivals and a hotel made of ice.

The 26 best things to do in Toronto

Spooky walks, festivals galore, brewery tours and Niagara Falls dominate our list of best things to do in Toronto.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

North America Chevron

Canada Chevron

Québec Chevron

Montreal Chevron

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. 

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

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.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

7 Awesome Day Trips from Montreal (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 9, 2024

Everything you need to know about the must-do day trips from Montreal, written by a Montreal local!

Montreal, the City of Saints, is a mecca of all things, food, drink, arts and culture.

Yes, Montreal should definitely be on everyone’s Canadian bucket list. But there are also plenty of amazing things to see and do just outside of the city itself.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect ski getaway at Mont Tremblant or a day spent getting to know the national capital of Ottawa, your options for day trips are endless.

Or maybe you want to escape the cities for the great outdoors in any number of national parks surrounding Montreal. Go cross country skiing, mountain biking, waterfall chasing, or wilderness exploring.

There are lots of amazing day trips from Montreal, and this article will dive into some of the best ones.

Whether you’re looking for summer activities or winter activities, there is always something fun to do in this corner of Canada.

READ MORE: Use our guide to plan your trip to Canada!

Table of Contents

What To Do In Mont Tremblant

What to do in the eastern townships, what to do in quebec city, what to do in montebello, what to do in the laurentians, what to do in ottawa, what to do in montmorency, best day trips from montreal.

Grab the bus, hop on the train or fuel up the car because you’re never more than a few hours away from somewhere incredible to explore!

To help make planning easier this is a list of the 7 best Montreal day trips to get you excited for the next adventure.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

1) Mont Tremblant

About 90 minutes northwest of Montreal tucked into the Laurentian Mountains is the most charming little slice of paradise.

Mont Tremblant is the national park in which the town is situated and is known for its ski resort and stunning trails.

While the ski resort is well known by most Canadians and international travellers, what some may not know is that this is a great place to visit outside of ski season too.

This is one of the best day trips from Montreal for anyone looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and pampering.

Mont Tremblant is a huge natural reserve complete with opportunities for downhill skiing, cross country skiing, mountain biking, skating and even dog sledding in the winter months.

There are also nordic spa treatments, fantastic dining options and stunning hiking trails. Mont Tremblant is a great one-day getaway option.

READ MORE: Check out my other guide on NOMADasaurus filled with all the best things to do in Montreal !

First things first, skiing, or snowboarding! With over 100 groomed trails at Mont Tremblant, there’s a run, or two for everyone no matter your experience level.

If you’re a first-timer the skill offers a ski school and lessons to get you comfortable and confident on the slopes as well as a rental shop for all your outfit needs.

For those with a bit of experience, you can take right to the slopes on trails like TouFou or La Passe.

For those more advanced riders check out Windigo or Lowell Thomas. For adrenaline junkies, there are also 3 different snowparks to take advantage of too.

For all tickets, rental and trail information click here.

If skiing/snowboarding isn’t your cup of tea you won’t miss out. Mont Tremblant has a great selection of snowshoe trails or cross country skiing trails to be explored.

Ranging from 1km to 5km in length and one for every experience level this is a great opportunity to slow down and see all the beautiful parts of the park during the winter.

After a day on the trails or slopes you’ll likely have worked up an appetite, and you’re in luck because the village at Tremblant has some of the best dining options outside of Montreal.

The Village at Mont Tremblant is where you’ll find all the bars, cafes and restaurants you need to fuel up and take part in a great post-ski session.

Stop at Choux Gras Brasserie for a special occasion meal, Café D’Epoque for that fun nightclub experience or SoCal Kitchen for a relaxed meal and great drinks.

Want to do a bit of shopping? The village has tons of unique boutiques and stores so you’ll be able to find everything you’re looking for and more.

If your one day trip from Montreal brings you to Mont Tremblant outside of ski season then you’ll be looking for hiking, biking and all things outdoorsy to take advantage of.

The National Park has dozens of trails to be explored for every fitness level including Manicou, Mont Onontio and Grand Nord just to name a few.

After tackling the trails you’ll be happy to know that relaxation is close by too.

Mont Tremblant is home to the Scandinave Spa which is a traditional Scandinavian spa/bath experience. In a beautiful and secluded setting, you can unwind and relax in multiple pools on the site and take advantage of the spa treatments too.

2) The Eastern Townships

If you want to disappear on a day trip out of Montreal and avoid the crowds, especially in the summer, look no further.

Located just a few hours away from downtown Montreal, The Eastern Townships consist of several different towns in the Southeast of Quebec.

A seriously postcard-worthy destination that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to one of those idyllic movies small towns where everyone knows everyone and each house has a white picket fence, almost.

From kayaking to shopping, exploring National Parks, and even a ski resort for the winter visits. Day trips to the Eastern Townships have something for everyone.

One of the best things to do in Montreal is taking a trip out to Bromont in the Eastern Townships. No matter the time of year one of the highlights of Bromont is the Balnea Spa.

Tucked into the side of a mountain surrounded by lush forest and spectacular views, this spa has it all. Relaxation rooms, the usual facials and massages.

But then they also have a Mediterranean inspired beach club and even offer different outdoor activities.

Winter lovers will be excited at the mention of skiing and Bromont, along with the rest of the Eastern Townships offer great ski hills.

Ski Bromont not only offers traditional winter outdoor activities like skiing/snowboarding, cross country skiing, sledding and snowshoeing, but they also offer amazing mountain biking trails, hiking and a very cool waterpark .

For more information click here . 

National Parks are a huge draw to this Eastern Townships region as well, especially from September – to November when the leaves turn a gorgeous gold, red and orange.

In the area, you have your choice of four parks including Mont Orford, Yamasaka National Park, Frontenac National Park and Reserve Naturelle des Montagnes-Vertes .

The two most popular choices for visitors are Frontenac National Park and Mont Orford which are also relatively easy to access during day trips from Montreal.

Sitting on the shores of Lake St. Francois is the perfect spot to check out some wildlife.

Home to 30 different species of mammals including moose and deer and over 200 species of birds you’ll definitely want to bring your binoculars up here.

To get the best views from up above the park, head out to Le Massif trail which you can access from the canoe dock number 12. At over 400 meters above sea level, the climb will be steep but the views over the southern end of the region will be more than worth it.

READ MORE: Looking for the best way to spend 3 days in Montreal? Don’t miss my recommended Montreal itinerary !

3) Quebec City

Old Montreal is one of the top Montreal attractions for any visitor. So what if you found out there was something just as beautiful and historic as Old Montreal on a bigger scale?

Then Quebec City might be the best day trip from Montreal for you! Dating back to the 1600s, Quebec City is the home to some of the province’s most incredible moments in history and is about as picturesque as they come.

The cobbled streets of Quebec City will have you thinking you’ve stepped foot in Europe. The Citadelle will remind you of the things you heard about in history class and the beautiful architecture will have you snapping a mile a minute.

Whether you’re looking for a day trip from Montreal full of beautiful scenes, good food or history Quebec City has it all.

If you want to get your bearings right away a great option for a Montreal day tour to Quebec City is to book a walking tour .

With a knowledgeable local guide at your side, you’ll be able to learn all about this historic part of the country. The historic city of Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so a guide will help you learn all the unique facts about this special area.

This is also a great way to find out what some local favourites are for the rest of your day. Even without an organized walking tour, Quebec City is best explored on foot.

The Quartier Petit Champlain is one of the most beautiful areas in the city and one of North America’s oldest commercial streets. Lined with lovely boutiques, art galleries and restaurants this is the hub of the city and you’ll find anything you need here.

For all your fresh local produce and treats head to Marché du Vieux Port (Old Port Market) . Open daily with numerous different stalls offering fresh produce, local cheeses, as well as wine and beers from the region.

History buffs will be in heaven visiting Quebec City as it is one of the oldest cities within Canada and home to so much history. Place Royale is one of the most historic landmarks in the city and one of the most photogenic.

This dates back to the 17th century and is considered by many as the birthplace of French Quebec.

The Notre Dame de Quebec Cathedral is nearby and was originally constructed in 1647. However, it has suffered several fires in its lifetime and the current cathedral is slightly different from the original.

One majorly cool site to see in Quebec City is The Fortifications. Surrounding the city and covering just under 5km, not only is the fortress a UNESCO World Heritage site but also offers some of the most amazing views of the city as well.

READ MORE: Want to spend more time in Québec City? Check out this post to find out more great things to do when you’re there!

The Museum of Civilization is the number 1 visited museum in Canada and is full of history. Explore the history not only of the Quebecois and Canadians from the inception of Québec City but also the native aboriginal people who called this area home.

La Citadelle is an active military installation and the secondary official residence of both the Canadian monarch and the Governor-General of Canada.

Located at the top of Cap Diamant this star-shaped fortress was constructed in the 1800s as the talk of an American invasion was near, but it never happened.

It was constructed in the 1800s as the talk of an American invasion was near, but it never happened. It’s a great piece of architecture and seen from above is the best way to view its shape.

Neighbouring the Citadelle are the Plains of Abraham and Battlefields Park which cover over 100 hectares and are the perfect place to see the city.

If you’re after another place to stroll and take in the views head to Terrace Dufferin that goes from the Citadelle to the iconic Chateau Frontenac hotel. The wooden boardwalk leads up to the hotel that looks like something out of a fairytale.

4) Montebello

In the west of Quebec and just over 90 minutes from Montreal, you’ll find the charming village of Montebello. Located close to the border of Ontario, this is a favourite summertime destination for Montrealers and Ontario residents too.

While this destination is often overlooked for Quebec City or Ottawa it’s the perfect day trip out of Montreal if you’re looking to enjoy some peace and quiet.

Visit the largest log cabin in North America or get up close and personal with some incredible wildlife.

Get out into nature and onto the hiking trails or book in for a day of pampering and local food and wine, anything you choose will be awesome.

For those looking for the best day trips from Montreal, there is an epic one that will give you the best of the best that Montebello has to offer.

A day tour to Parc Omega and Montebello Lodge after a scenic ride from Montreal is definitely a must-do.

At Parc Omega visitors will be able to experience the incredible Quebec wildlife up close and personal.

Wolves, blonde bears, deer, foxes and coyotes are just a few of the animals who call this location home and with knowledgeable guides, you’ll be able to see them all.

And if that’s not enough for you then why not book in for a night and wake up with the wolves!

Their cabin and chalet options are a great opportunity to see the wildlife in their natural habitat from cozy lodgings. For more details visit their website .  

Montebello Lodge aka The Chateau Montebello is a Fairmont owned hotel and one of the most beautiful in the country.

Even if you’re only on a day trip from Montreal that’s no reason not to stop in and have a drink at the bar, visit one of the property’s 6 restaurants, hit a few rounds on the golf course or enjoy the spa facilities.

The hotel also offers kayak and canoe rentals to take advantage of as well.

If you love good food and drink, Montello has some great options for you as well.

For the craft beer lovers in the group check out Brasseurs de Montebello. In a cozy atmosphere with a great patio space enjoy some of the region’s awesome craft beers and let the staff help you decide what to try next.

After a flight of beer, chances are you’ll need sustenance, and Fromagerie Montebello can help you out. This cheese shop is legendary in the area and for good reason too.

Taste your way through the shop and be sure to get some to take back home with you.

For a quintessential Quebec foodie favourite, visit Delice Champetre for poutine. This local delicacy of fries, cheese curds and gravy is a must-try for any visit to the province. 

5) The Laurentians

When it comes to Montreal sightseeing, the closest thing you’ll get to mountain ranges is Mount Royal, which is more of a hill than anything.

While that’s a pretty viewpoint if you’re craving some real mountains the best Montreal day trip for you would be The Laurentians.

North of the St. Lawrence River and what seems like out in the middle of nowhere are a stunning range of mountains that will have you saying “What west coast?”

Not only is this national park area a gorgeous palace to explore, but also there are also several must-see towns in the region worth a visit.

This is easily one of the top day trips from Montreal for nature lovers.

One of the highlights for anyone visiting The Laurentians in the Autumnal months (September – November) is to see the gorgeous colours in the region.

Escape the city on a pre-organized day trip from Montreal including transport.

A major highlight is to cruise around Lac-Des-Sables, where visitors will not only get a beautiful view from the lake but also get a fabulous opportunity to see the gold and red leaves for the surrounding forests.

Enjoy a scenic drive through Southern Quebec’s stunning mountainside and admire the woodlands you’ll pass all without having to do anything but snap photos as you cruise along.

Picture perfect villages seem to be a requirement in the Laurentians. Two that should definitely not be missed out on are St-Sauveur and St-Agathe.

In St-Sauveur you’ll find a ton of thrilling activities as well as a charming village atmosphere. The number one draw being Mont St-Sauveur where in winter you can take part in all sorts of winter activities including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ziplining .

However, in the summer months, the mountain turns into an aqua park . Enjoy the lazy river, dozens of wicked water slides and even rollercoasters in the park too.

In St-Agathe you’ll have an opportunity to get lost in the pretty little town and get out onto the trails nearby too.

Tyropark is a mountain adventure park equipped with the highest and longest zipline in Quebec.

There are options for a spa break + zip line day out or a hiking + zip line experience. Whatever you choose you’ll be sure to enjoy the views from the top.

For more information on activities click her e.

For those hoping for a bit of rest and relaxation the options for spas in The Laurentians, you’ve come to the right place.

Check out Bagni Spa in St-Adele for a Nordic spa experience. The spa sits directly on the river and there are areas completely secluded on the banks of the river with chairs on the rocks that give you a completely different experience than a regular treatment room.

There is an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant on-site and all the treatments you could want.

At St-Sauveur you’ll find the legendary Manoir St-Sauveur which is not just a hotel. The spa facilities here are a huge draw for Montrealers with an exquisite atmosphere, thermal pools and the most soothing treatment spaces.

Canada’s capital city is one of the best day trips from Montreal. Ottawa sits on the river in Ontario and is a city that everyone should have on their Canadian bucket list.

Easily accessible by road trip in a car, train or even bus so there is no worry for anyone visiting who may not have their own transport. The city is easy enough to get around on foot and really just an all-over visitor-friendly place to visit.

From Parliament Hill to The National Gallery of Canada and the Ottawa River, there is lots to see and do. The infamous Rideau Canal is perfect for skating in the winter months and the most scenic part of the city in the summer months.

Take a trip to Byward Market and enjoy some of the best food the city has to offer. No matter what you want to do you’ll be able to find it all and more in Ottawa.

In the center of Ottawa is Parliament Hill with the Parliament building perched right on top.

Overlooking the Ottawa River, Parliament Hill is made up of 3 buildings and an impressive garden, all of which can be toured by visitors. This Gothic Revival style of the building is stunning, and at night you can see it lit up which is very impressive.  

For more information on tours and times. please visit this website .

Ottawa is one of the oldest cities in Canada and therefore there are plenty of museums to check out on your day trip out of Montreal.

The Canadian Museum of History, The Canadian Museum of Nature, The National Gallery of Canada and The Canadian War Museum are just a few of the best ones to check out.

For something a bit more specialized, but one of the most fun to visit the Canadian Museum of Science and Technology is great! There is a “crazy kitchen” in which visitors will get a sense of gravity and be able to feel like they’re walking upside down.

Immersive displays and interactive exhibits are what this museum is known for and there’s something to find for everyone.

Byward Market is one of the oldest in Canada and is open year-round. Sample local produce, sample Ontario’s fine wines and get a feel for the food culture in this open-air market.

Definitely don’t forget to try a Beaver Tail! No, this is not an actual beaver tail! Think deep-fried dough in the shape of a beaver’s tail covered in cinnamon sugar, the perfect treat especially on a cold Winter’s day.

A winter visit to Ottawa is classic for anyone wanting to experience Winterlude.

For 2 weeks every February, this winter festival is full of amazing light shows, installations and of course skating on the Rideau Canal .

The canal on the Ottawa River is also a great place for a walk or a bike ride with over 200 km of riverside to explore.

Sitting just above the Rideau Canal is Major’s Hill Park , from which you’ll have fantastic views of the canal and even of the Parliament buildings.

Stroll through the park admiring the gardens or enjoy the Canada Day celebrations every July 1st here.

From the park, you’ll be able to walk along the path to the infamous Fairmont Chateau Laurier hotel which is an iconic piece of Ottawa’s city architecture.

Looking more like a castle than a hotel, there is a bar and restaurant visitors can use if you aren’t a guest, and it’s worth just taking a little nosey around the place.

7) Montmorency Falls

Last on the list of the best day trips from Montreal is the spectacular Montmorency Falls.

Located near to Quebec City you can pop in for the must-see views on your way to/from Quebec City.

But if you fancy spending the day here there are more than enough things to do.

With over 100,000 visitors every year this is a destination you won’t want to miss out on. Come for the views but stay for the awesome zip line or themed guided tours into Quebec’s history.

Even during the winter, you’ll be able to see the frozen falls and ride the cable car. No matter the season and no matter what you hope to find, this is a day trip from Montreal that should be on everyone’s list.

First things first, visit the waterfall! Nearly 300 ft high, it makes them higher than the iconic Niagara Falls and has 2 separate drops all connected to the Montmorency River .

Several staircases surround the falls which allow visitors to get up close and personal from lots of different angles of the falls.

An amazing suspension bridge connects either side of the falls so you’ll be able to stroll over the top if you aren’t afraid of heights. From the middle of the bridge, you’ll have unobstructed views over either side of the falls making this the best viewpoint in the area.

If you want a bit of a different view, you can purchase tickets for the cable car where you’ll be taken up and out from the falls looking back at the rush of water behind you.

You can also visit Montmorency Falls and the cable car as a day trip from Quebec City .

For thrill-seekers, you can zipline alongside the falls or take to rock climbing the surrounding cliff faces.

And if you want to get the most out of your visit stop at the information center and book one of several guided tours while at the falls.

While winter can sometimes deter visitors, if you bundle upright and pick a sunny day then you’ll have the chance to see something incredible. During the winter months, the cable car still runs and you’ll have a chance to see the falls frozen over which is amazing.

Snowshoe trails surround the falls and the area of the park and there are several trails worth visiting if the conditions are right.

The Cliffside Boardwalk goes the whole way around the suspension bridge where you’ll have awesome views, and the Cottage Trail allows snowshoers to go across the bridge to the Resurgences Trail .

Ice climbing is available here as well but it is recommended only for those with experience.

Stop in at Manoir Montmorency for a hot drink and to warm your feet by the fire while still getting great views from the dining area.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Laura Oxley

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The PERFECT Banff Itinerary You Can’t Miss (2024 Guide)

25 AWESOME Things to Do in Banff, Canada

The Ultimate Guide to Yoho National Park in Canada

Related Posts

Rocky mountaineer review – everything you need to know, 17 amazing things to do in quebec city, canada, the 20 best things to do in calgary (2024 guide), the 30 best things to do in canada – ultimate bucket list, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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

Supported by

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

Supported by Québec

As a travel entertainment and inspirational media outlet, we sometimes incorporate brand sponsors into our efforts. This activity is clearly labeled across our platforms.

Funding for this story is provided by Québec. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.

With sponsored content, both Lonely Planet and our brand partners have specific responsibilities:

Brand partner

Only provides financial support and their logo. Doesn't make revisions or approve the story.

Lonely Planet

We fully control the creative and editorial approach, just like any other featured story.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Apr 13, 2024 • 8 min read

Crossing Canada’s vastness might seem like a daunting challenge – and it can be. Our guide to getting around the country will help.

Apr 12, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 11, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 11, 2024 • 10 min read

Feb 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 24, 2024 • 6 min read

Dec 15, 2023 • 7 min read

Oct 2, 2023 • 7 min read

Sep 19, 2023 • 7 min read

Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 15 Best Day Trips from Montreal

15 Best Day Trips from Montreal

With an electrifying cultural dynamic and countless things to do, Montreal is favoured as one of the most irresistible destinations in Canada by both visitors and locals alike.

The tangible French influence means there’s endless places to eat mouthwatering food, fascinating art attractions throughout the city and much more.

However, Montreal also happens to be in the heartland of the Quebec countryside and as a result, there is a whole world of small townships, lakes, rivers and mountain ranges just outside the city limits and these destinations are well worth taking a day to go and visit.

Most being only a couple of hours drive away, here are the top day trip attractions that can be reached from Montreal.

1. Îles-de-Boucherville National Park

Only a few miles from Montreal, it couldn’t be easier to reach the Parc National des Iles-de-Boucherville and it offers the perfect escape from the busy city.

Come prepared to be active, as the series of chain islands is a veritable playground for all kinds of sports and activities from hiking, jogging and snowshoeing, to canoeing and cross-country skiing to name but a few.

The huge expanse of protected natural reserve was also the home to many First Nations people – if you want to brush up on your history, you can take an educational tour that gives a rare insight into this, as well as wildlife and conservation.

2. Domaine Labranche

Located in the beautifully picturesque region just south of the St. Lawrence River, Domaine Labranche is a family-run sugar shack which historically collected and processed locally produced maple sap.

Visitors can come and explore the gorgeous grounds, which include a farm, vineyard and hiking trails that are right around the corner.

As you can expect, there is a thriving culinary offering here and you can indulge in just about everything from fresh farm produce, wines and ingeniously prepared maple dishes.

3. Calvaire D’Oka

The trailhead to this wonderful hike can be found just metres from the idyllic Oka Provincial Park which is a huge natural reserve complete with beautiful forests, lakes and a significant number of historic buildings including oratories and chapels.

The Calvaire D’Oka hiking trail is accessible enough for any skill level and you’ll be rewarded with striking views of Lac des Deux Montagnes and the famous Adirondacks.

If you want to cool off after the hike, then make your way down to the lake where you can enjoy every kind of water sport imaginable, from stand-up paddle boarding to pedal boats and kayaking.

4. Granby Zoo

The ideal day trip for both families and travellers, Granby Zoo is in fact the biggest zoo in Quebec, not only because it houses so many animals of so many different species, but because of the physical size of its conservation area, meaning all the animals have ample space.

With wildlife that is both domestic and exotic, the 1000 strong community of animals attracts crowds of people each year who want to escape city life and marvel at the wonders of the Animal Kingdom.

Particularly popular amongst families is the zoo’s water park that is across the street, where you can cool off, grab a bite to eat and catch some sun in the summer.

5. Sucrerie de la Montagne

Unlike many of its counterparts across Quebec, this authentic sugar shack is open throughout the whole year, whereas others only tend to open during winter – meaning you can get a taste of pioneer Canada no matter when you visit.

The Quebec Heritage site is surrounded by a vast maple forest in the beautiful Mont Rigaud and visitors will have the chance to gain a fascinating insight into what life was like for the people who lived and worked here while producing maple products.

Between a restaurant and general store, there’s more than enough to keep you entertained for the day, though if you want to stay in the picturesque forest for longer, there is accommodation available.

6. Mont-Tremblant

Between it’s famous ski resort and pristine national park, its little wonder that locals from Montreal and visitors alike make the 2-hour trip to the slopes of the beautiful Mont-Tremblant to spend the day enjoying everything the mountain has to offer.

The charmingly quaint village was actually designed to look like a Swiss alpine town and it matches its mountain settings perfectly.

You’ll have no trouble finding something exhilarating to do even if you’re not a skier, from paddle boarding to mountain biking or swimming.

In the winter, it’s a skier and snowboarder haven, so if you’re into snowsports it’s a worthwhile time to visit.

Recommended tour : Private Day Tour to Mont Tremblant

Incredibly easy to reach thanks to the many bus routes and a rail line that connects Montreal with Ottawa, the city offers a different perspective of Canadian life, one that is incredibly rich in history owing to its parliamentary significance.

Home of the governmental heartland, Ottawa’s Parliament Hill is an architectural marvel and well worth a visit.

The city also has a blooming outdoor events culture, with festivals, concerts and markets occurring regularly throughout the year.

Book online : Private Day Tour to Ottawa

8. Quebec City

Also easily reachable from Montreal and without a doubt one of the most popular day trips, is the beautiful Quebec City.

Famously one of the oldest settlements built by European colonists in the whole of North America, the history here is apparent in the traditional architecture, whilst the museums hold enough knowledge to keep you fascinated for days.

The Vieux-Quebec District still exhibits the walls that surrounded the original fortress and offers one of the prettiest skylines in the city.

Not to be missed are the impressive museums and legislature buildings, including the National Assembly of Quebec and the National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec.

Top rated tour : Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip

9. Petit Train du Nord Trail

Once a thriving railroad trail, this gorgeous route through the Laurentian Mountains has now been converted into an incredibly popular bike path and cross-country ski trail that winds its way through glades and alpine lakes and forests.

The 200km trail can be undertaken as one long trip or you can cover sections of it and stop off at a number of charming little towns on the way that grew from the old train stations.

At a mere 30 minutes from Montreal it’s the perfect place to do some do-it-yourself exploring while getting back to nature.

10. Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park

A relatively small slice of alpine paradise tucked away behind West Island’s housing developments and therefore having the feel of hidden gem.

Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park features the largest beach nearby to Montreal and visitors have endless choices when it comes to what activities to do there.

From windsurfing to beach volleyball to kayaking, it’s impossible to get bored here and the scenery is pretty enough to simply sit back and take it all in.

Remember to take some food with you as there are no restaurants in the area, though if you visit on the weekend there are sometimes food trucks selling fresh, local recipes.

11. The Laurentians

The Laurentian Mountains are one of Montreal’s best kept secrets when it comes to day trips as they are only about an hour away from town and don’t necessarily require an overnight stay.

Here you’ll find rolling mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes and a network of adorable alpine villages and townships that are all too reminiscent of the Swiss Alps.

Explore on your own or embark on a tour that’ll take you on a meandering route through the forests and mountains, even to Lac Des Sables where you can take a cruise and soak in the incredible views from the water.

12. Canada Railway Museum

A mere 20 minutes away from downtown Montreal, this intriguing insight into the pioneering railroad industry is the perfect place to start a day out – it’s so close that you can spend an hour or two here and move on to a different day trip.

The Canada Railway Museum showcases an assortment of technological breakthroughs that shaped the Canada of today and most of its exhibits are in pristine condition.

A great day out for families, it can be found in St Constant, just across from the St Lawrence River.

13. Au Diable Vert Canopy Cycle

One of the only attractions of its kind in the area, Au Diable Vert is home to not only stunning views from atop its perch on an alpine pasture, but is also home to a unique type of cycling.

Canopy cycling takes visitors above the tree line on hanging, open air cable cars that are powered by your pedal-pushing-power.

With no traffic in sight or earshot, prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking panoramas of the Green Mountains and the Missisquoi River Valley as you pedal your way across the sky.

14. Whale Watching at Rivière-du-Loup

A full-day commitment for wildlife lovers – this day trip clocks in at around 10 hours in total including travel to the idyllic Rivière-du-Loup.

If you have the time however, its an incredibly worthwhile experience that you’re not likely to ever forget.

After being picked up from a central Montreal location, you’ll be whisked away on a 3 hour guided cruise that’ll take you to within almost touching distance of the huge, majestic beasts, allowing for some truly heart-stopping photography moments.

15. Eastern Townships

A popular escape for city dwellers to get back to nature whilst not having to rough it, the Eastern Townships are about two hours away from Montreal and offer a vast range of lakeside destinations that are particularly beautiful in the summer, where you can visit for the day or rent one of the many cottages peppering the region.

Throughout the year you can also enjoy festivals, wine-tasting fairs and all manner of outdoor activities whilst enjoying the Township’s lake district-esque charm.

15 Best Day Trips from Montreal:

• Îles-de-Boucherville National Park
• Domaine Labranche
• Calvaire D’Oka
• Sucrerie de la Montagne
• Mont-Tremblant
• Quebec City
• Petit Train du Nord Trail
• Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park
• The Laurentians
• Canada Railway Museum
• Au Diable Vert Canopy Cycle
• Whale Watching at Rivière-du-Loup
• Eastern Townships

Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Things to See
• Best Restaurants
• Best Nightlife
• Planning a Trip
• Organized Tours
• Walking Tours
• Active Pursuits
• Spectator Sports
• Suggested Itineraries

Side Trips in Montreal

Skiing at Mont-Tremblant

145km (90 miles) N of Montréal

Don’t expect spiked peaks or high, ragged ridges. The Laurentian Shield’s rolling hills and rounded mountains average between 300m and 520m (984 ft.–1,706 ft.) in height, with the highest being Mont-Tremblant, at 875m (2,871 ft.). These are not the Alps or the Rockies, but they’re welcoming and embracing to most levels of skier. T here are 12 ski centers within a 64km (40-mile) radius, but Mont-Tremblant itself is the most popular, with a vibrant pedestrian village at its base that is a kind of Aspen-meets-Disneyland. Skiers can usually expect reliable snow from early December to late March. The busiest times are February and March.

Essentials Getting There

BY CAR -- The fast and scenic Autoroute des Laurentides, also known as Autoroute 15, goes straight from Montréal to the Laurentians. About 15km (9 miles) before Mont-Tremblant, 15 ends and merges with the older Route 117, which also runs parallel with Autoroute 15. (If you have the time to meander, you can exit 15 at St-Jérôme and pick up the smaller Route 117, which passes through many appealing small towns.) Montréalers fill the highways when they “go up north” on weekends, particularly during the top skiing months, so try to avoid driving on Friday afternoons.

There are four exits to the Mont-Tremblant ski area from Route 117. The first is exit 113, which takes visitors through Centre-Ville Mont-Tremblant (formerly the village of St-Jovite), a pleasant small town with a main street, rue de St-Jovite, lined with cafes and shops. From the center of town, Route 327 heads to the mountain.

The fourth exit, exit 119, bypasses Centre-Ville and goes directly to the mountain. Watch for signs with the resort’s logo, which turns the “A” in “Tremblant” into a graphic of a ski mountain.

BY BUS -- Galland buses (www.galland-bus.com; tel 877/806-8666 or 450/687-8666 ) depart from Gare d’autocars de Montréal , 1717 rue Berri, and stop in the larger Laurentian towns, including Mont-Tremblant. The ride to Mont-Tremblant takes just under 3 hours.

Visitor Information

Tourist offices are plentiful throughout the Laurentians—just look for the blue “ ?” signs. A major information center is at exit 51 off Autoroute 15. It shares a building with a McDonald’s. Called Tourisme Laurentides (www.laurentides.com; tel 800/561-6673 or 450/224-7007), it has racks of brochures and a helpful staff. It’s open daily. Closer to the ski mountain, there’s an office at 5080 Montée Ryan (tel 877/425-2434 or 819/425-2434), open daily 9am to 5pm. You can also check www.tourismemonttremblant.com , an official tourism site, and www.tremblant.ca , the Mont-Tremblant ski resort’s website .

Getting Around

You can certainly settle in for a day of skiing, eating, and shopping at the Mont-Tremblant ski center and resort village and get around by foot. If you want to visit Scandinave Spa (below), you’ll need a car.

If you drive through the area, keep this in mind: The abundant use of the name “Tremblant” can be very confusing. There is Mont-Tremblant, the mountain. There’s the resort village that is sometimes called the pedestrian village, sometimes called Tremblant, and sometimes called Mont-Tremblant Station. There’s the old village of Mont-Tremblant about 5km (3 miles) northwest of the resort, which long ago was the region’s center. There’s Centre-Ville Mont-Tremblant, the cute commercial district about 12km (7 1/2 miles) south of the mountain that used to be known as St-Jovite. Feeding the confusion is the fact that, in 2005, the villages of St-Jovite and Mont-Tremblant and the pedestrian village combined to become a single entity named Ville de Mont-Tremblant—but many maps and residents still refer to the areas by their old names. You’ll also see signs for a lake, Lac Tremblant, next to the pedestrian village, and the large national park, Parc National du Mont-Tremblant. Clear as mud, right?

There are parking lots right at the pedestrian village, and, if those are full, you’ll find others close by (and well marked) that are served by shuttles to the village.

Hitting the Slopes (& the Spa)

The Mont-Tremblant ski resort (www.tremblant.ca) draws the biggest downhill crowds in the Laurentians and for 15 years running was ranked as the top ski resort in eastern North America by “ Ski Magazine.” Founded in 1939, it’s one of the oldest in North America. It pioneered creating trails on both sides of a mountain and was the second mountain in the world to install a chairlift. The vertical drop is 645m (2,116 ft.). When the snow is deep, skiers here like to follow the sun around the mountain, making the run down slopes with an eastern exposure in the morning and down the western-facing ones in the afternoon. There are higher mountains with longer runs and steeper pitches, but something about Mont-Tremblant compels people to return time and again. The resort has snowmaking capability to cover almost three-quarters of its skiable terrain (265 hectares/654 acres). Of its 95 downhill runs and trails, half are expert terrain, about a third are intermediate, and the rest beginner. The longest trail, Nansen, is 6km (3 3/4 miles).

For after-skiing (or instead of skiing), there’s an appealing European-style Nordic spa nearby, built adjacent to a river and featuring both outdoor and indoor spaces. You can easily spend at least 3 hours at Scandinave Spa, 4280 Montée Ryan, Mont-Tremblant (www.scandinave.com; tel 888/537-2263 ), open year-round. It’s a rustic-chic complex of small buildings among evergreen trees on the Diable River shore. Few activities are more magical than being in a warm outdoor pool as snow falls, the sun sets, and the temperature plummets. For C$48, visitors (18 and older only) have run of the facility. Options include outdoor hot tubs designed to look like natural pools (one is set under a man-made waterfall); an indoor Norwegian steam bath thick with eucalyptus; indoor relaxation areas with supercomfortable, low-slung chairs; and the river itself, which the heartiest of folk dip into even on frigid days. (A heat lamp keeps a small square of river open, even through the iciest part of winter.) The idea is to move from hot to cold to hot, which supposedly purges toxins and invigorates your skin. Bathing suits are required, and men and women share all spaces except the changing rooms. Massages are available for extra fees.

If you visit in warm weather, a downhill dry-land alpine Skyline Luge (www.skylineluge.com; tel 819/681-3000 )is set up right on the ski mountain at the pedestrian village. The engineless sleds are gravity-propelled, reaching speeds of up to 48kmph (30mph), if you so choose (it’s easy to go down as a slowpoke, too). Rides are priced by number of descents, starting at C$12 for one ride (C$3 for kids 6 and under). The village has other games and attractions, such as bungee trampoline, outdoor climbing walls, and forest zip lines.

Where to Eat & Shop

The pedestrian-only resort village on Mont-Tremblant’s slope (www.tremblant.ca/lodging-and-village/village/index.aspx) is the social hub of the region. The village has the prefabricated look of a theme park, but at least planners used the Québécois architectural style of pitched or mansard roofs in bright colors, not ersatz Tyrolean or Bavarian Alpine flourishes. For a sweeping view of the entire complex, take the free gondola from the bottom of the village to the top; it zips over the walkways, candy-colored hotels, and outdoor swimming pools.

Otherwise, you can stroll the village easily. Small lanes lead up past 35 shops that sell clothing, sporting goods, sweets, and gifts. There are also 36 restaurants and bars.

Bistro Au Grain de Café (www.augraindecafe.com; tel 819/681-4567 ), tucked into a corner of the upper village just off the main plaza called Place St-Bernard, is a reliable choice for coffee and sandwiches (open daily 7:30am–11pm during ski season).

Like at most ski mountains, beer, burgers, and roast chicken are abundant. Slope-side drink palaces Le Shack (www.leshack.com; tel 819/681-4700 ) and La Forge (www.laforgetremblant.com; tel 819/681-4900 ) are full of TVs and music and feature perfectly agreeable family-friendly cuisine. For something a little different, the New Orleans’ inspired Fat Mardi’s (www.fatmardis.com; tel 819/681-2439 ) just across the square is another fine choice. The smaller microbrewery Microbrasserie La Diable ( www.microladiable.com; tel 819/681-4546 ),housed in a free-standing chalet at 117 chemin Kandahar, is more laid back and offers seven home brews and a menu that includes veggie and salmon burgers along with the expected burgers, salads, chili, and good sausage with homemade sauerkraut. Be warned that it’s a bit of a walk down chemin Kandahar from the base of the ski mountain, especially in those clunky boots, but the location makes it easier to get a table.

After 20 years on-mountain, one of our favorite spots for sweet and savory crêpes, Crêperie Catherine (www.creperiecatherine.ca; tel 819/681-4888 ), moved to 977 rue Labelle, Centre-Ville Mont-Tremblant, in November 2014. If you go, be sure to try the house specialty, sucre a la crème (a concoction of brown sugar and butter). You can order from any part of the menu any time of day.

Biking the Route Verte (Green Route)

Start at Val-David, 80km (50 miles) N of Montréal

Québec is bike crazy, and it’s got the goods to justify it. In 2007, the province inaugurated the Route Verte (Green Route), a now-5,000km (3,107-mile) bike network that stretches from one end of the province to the other, linking all regions and cities. It’s modeled on the Rails-to-Trails program in the U.S. and cycling routes in Denmark, Great Britain, and along the Danube and Rhine rivers, and was initiated by the nonprofit biking organization Vélo Québec with support from the Québec Ministry of Transportation. Route Verte won the prestigious Prix Ulysse, one of the grand prizes given annually by the Québec tourist office, right out of the gate. The National Geographic Society went on to declare it one of the 10 best bicycle routes in the world.

Route Verte has a lot of sections, including paths all through the city of Montréal. But if you want to enjoy some countryside, head north out of the city to bike the popular P’tit Train du Nord bike trail. It goes through the Laurentians to Mont-Tremblant and beyond. It’s built on a former railway track and passes through the scenic villages of Ste-Adèle, Val-David, and Ste-Agathe-des-Monts. Cyclists can easily hop on and off for a day trip. Food and bike repairs are offered at renovated railway stations along the path.

This day trip is based out of Val-David, one of the prettiest villages in the region. The town conjures up images of cabin hideaways set among hills rearing above ponds and lakes, and of creeks tumbling through fragrant forests. There is a prominent entrance to the bike path here.

Getting There

BY CAR -- Follow the directions above for “Mont-Tremblant for Skiing.” At exit 76 of Autoroute 15 (and also along Rte. 117) is the village of Val-David (pop. 4,450), the region’s faintly bohemian enclave.

The Route Verte website (www.routeverte.com) provides maps of all the paths by region (look for the “Laurentides” map). Advance planners might want to get the English-language guidebook “Cycling in Québec: Official Guide to Bicycling on Québec’s Route Verte,” which is published by Route Verte and can be ordered from the site.

Details specifically about the P’tit Train du Nordtrail are at the Tourisme Laurentides website, at www.laurentides.com/en/linear-park-le-ptit-train-du-nord-232-km. The tourism office also publishes a P’tit Train du Nord Official Service Guide. You can find it online at www.myvirtualpaper.com/doc/tourisme-laurentides/official-service-guide---linear-park/2014030701/#0.

Val-David’s tourist office is on the main street in the Petite Gare, or old train station, at 2525 rue de l’Église (www.valdavid.com; tel 888/322-7030, ext. 4235, or 819/324-5678, ext. 4235). The building is adjacent to the bike path. It’s open daily from 9am to 5pm from mid-May to mid-October and then again from mid-December to mid-March, with variable opening hours the rest of the year (call first).

There is a parking lot next to the tourist office on rue de l’Église, adjacent to the bike path. There is a second parking lot on the opposite side of the bike path.

Hopping onto the Bike Path

First, some additional details about the P’tit Train du Nord bike trail: It is 232km (145 miles) long and passes through forests and some lovely villages (Val-David among them), and offers breathtaking mountain vistas. Since it was built on a former railway line, it is relatively flat. Former train stations have been repurposed into cafes, bistros, and covered refuges. Most have people who can help with bike repairs. Since the trail is shared by walkers and skaters, bikers are limited to a speed of 22 km/h (14m/h)—fast for casual bikers, medium speed for road warriors. The trail is free to ride on.

So, which direction to head? You can’t go wrong either way. Again, take a look through Tourisme Laurentides’ 32-page Official Service Guide specifically about the trail, online at. You’ll see that Val-David is at km 42. Ste-Adèle (pop. 12,137), which has a popular lake, Lac Rond, is just 9km (5.6 miles) south. (In Ste-Adèle, the main drag, rue Valiquette, is lined with cafes, galleries, and bakeries.) Heading the other direction on the trail, Mont-Tremblant’s splashy pedestrian village is at km 91, 49km (30 miles) north. The guide lists services along each km of the trail, from bars to bike repairs to banks to supermarkets. The folks at the tourist office in Val-David and at the region’s central tourist office at exit 51 off Autoroute 15 can offer suggested itineraries depending on whether you want a leisurely or more challenging ride and on how much time you have.

If you didn’t bring your own bike, bike rentals (or skis, snow shoes, and ice skates in the winter) are available in Val-David at the tourist office and at Roc & Ride Sports de Montagne (2444 rue de l’Église; www.rocnride.com; tel 819/322-7978 ).

For a relaxing picnic, get fixings in Val-David at the Metro Supermarket across from the tourist office on the main street or at the artisanal bakery, Boulangerie La Vagabonde, tucked into a house on a wooded side street at 1262 chemin de la Rivière (www.boulangerielavagabonde.com; tel 819/322-3953 ), for soups, salads, sandwiches, and pastries. If you’re in town on a Saturday morning from late June to late September, look for the organic farmer’s market on rue de l’Académie (opposite the church).

There’s a lovely picnic spot right in the village: From the tourist office, turn left onto the bike path and walk 5 minutes to the North River and the teeny Parc des Amoureux. Look for the sign that says site pittoresque .

For a more substantial meal, Au Petit Poucet, on Route 117 just south of Val-David (1030 Rte. 117; www.aupetitpoucet.com; tel 888/334-2246 or 819/322-2246), evokes a Québec of hunting cabins and hearty sugar-shack cuisine. A floor-to-ceiling fireplace anchors the interior, and the menu features tourtière (meat pie), pea soup, baked beans, and sugar pie. There’s a shop here for food to go.

Val-David is small, but it has many artist studios. You’re in luck if you’re visiting in mid-summer: the village hosts a huge ceramic art festival (www.1001pots.com; tel 819/322-6868 ) daily from mid-July to mid-August (July 11–Aug 10 in 2014). Sculptors and ceramicists, along wit h painters, jewelers, and pewter smiths display their work, and there are concerts and art demonstrations.

Touring Vineyards in Cantons-de-l’Est

Start at Dunham, 95km (59 miles) SE of Montréal, toward Sherbrooke

The rolling countryside of Cantons-de-l’Est to the southeast of Montréal has long served as the province ’s breadbasket, and that includes grape and apple orchards (for wine and cider, natch). Still referred to by many English-speakers as the Eastern Townships, the region is largely pastoral, marked by billowing hills and small villages. Except for a few disheartening signs for fast-food stops, the region is largely advertisement-free.

Canada is known more for its beers and ales than its wines, but that hasn’t stopped agriculturists from planting vines and transforming fruit into drinkable clarets, chardonnays, and Sauternes. The most successful efforts have blossomed along southern Ontario’s Niagara Frontier and in British Columbia’s relatively warmer precincts, but in the Cantons-de-l’Est, which enjoys the mildest microclimates in the province, apples grow, as do grapes. Most vintners and fruit growers are concentrated around Dunham, about 103km (64 miles) southeast of Montréal, with several vineyards along Route 202. The region also produces a special variety of wine known as ice cider (cidre de glace). It’s an aperitif made from apples that have frosted over and is produced by vineyards such as Domaine Pinnacle, which is included on this tour.

Autumn presents particular attractions. In addition to the glorious fall foliage (usually best from early September to early October), the orchards around here sag under the weight of apples of every variety, and cider mills hum day and night. Visitors are invited to help with the harvest and can pay a low price to pick their own baskets of fruit. Cider mills open their doors for tours and tastings.

BY CAR -- Leave Montréal by Pont Champlain, the bridge which funnels into arrow-straight Autoroute 10. Go east toward Sherbrooke. Within 20 minutes, you’ll be passing fields, clusters of cows, and in summer, meadows strewn with wildflowers. The exit numbers represent the distance in kilometers that the exit is from Montréal. To get to Dunham, take exit 48 and pick up QC-233 south. Take that 9.5km (6 miles) to Rte. 104 E. Take that 25km (15.5 miles) to Rte. 202 West and signs for Dunham.

Tourisme Cantons-de-l’Est (www.easterntownships.org; tel 800/355-5755 ) provides a slew of information. Driving from Montréal, the first regional tourist information office (www.granby-bromont.com; tel 866/472-6292 or 450/375-8774 ) is at exit 68 off Autoroute 10. It’s open daily and has free Wi-Fi.

Touring the Vineyards

A drive through this area and a stop for one vineyard tour makes for a pleasant afternoon, but if you’re really gung-ho, you can follow the established Route des Vins, which passes 21 wineries. A map and travel information is at www.laroutedesvins.ca .

You can start anywhere, but a popular option is Vignoble de l'Orpailleur, at 1086 Rte. 202 in Dunham (www.orpailleur.ca; tel 450/295-2763 ). It has guided tours every day from late June through October for C$9. Its white wines, such as the straw-colored L'Orpailleur, are regulars on Montréal restaurant menus.

Ice cider and ice wine are two regional products that may be new to visitors: They’re made from apples and grapes, respectively, left on the trees and vines past the first frost, and served ice-cold with cheese or dessert. One top producer is Domaine Pinnacle, at 150 Richford Rd. in Frelighsburg (www.icecider.com; tel 450/298-1226 ), about 13km (8 miles) south of Dunham. Its cidre de glace is a regular gold medalist in international competitions (it avoids the risk of being cloyingly sweet, which is hard to do for ice cider). The farm’s tasting room and boutique are open daily May through December and Thurs-Sun January through April.

Many of the vineyards, including the two listed above, have either restaurants or gourmet food boutiques on site. For a wider variety of food and shopping, we like the village of Knowlton. It’s at the southern tip of Lac Brome, on Rte 104 East (about 40km, or 25 miles, from Frelighsburg, above). At no. 39 on historic Victoria Street, Barne’s General Store (tel 450/243-6840 ), has been in business since 1890 and is a spot for organic food, tube socks, colored poster board, penny candy, and a spicy red dip made with pomegranate and walnuts called muhammara. Mmm! Also here is the Boutique Gourmet de Canards du Lac Brome, producer of Lac Brome’s famous (in this area, anyway) Peking duck meat. Though no live ducks are in view, there are more duck products here than the average non-Québécois can fathom. Located at 40 chemin du Centre (www.canardsdulacbrome.com; tel 450/242-3825 ext. 221 ), the store is open daily.

If you’re touring in the spring, you’ll be in the region at the time when every sugar-maple tree is being tapped and “sugared off.” The result? Maple festivals and farms hosting sugaring parties, with guests wolfing down prodigious country repasts capped by traditional maple-syrup desserts. Montréal newspapers and the regional tourist offices keep up-to-date lists of what’s happening and where during the sugaring; many of the festivals and “sugar shacks” are right in this area.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

• All Regions
• Australia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Atlantic
• Central & South America
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• Washington, D.C.
• San Francisco
• New York City
• Los Angeles
• Arts & Culture
• Beach & Water Sports
• Local Experiences
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor & Adventure
• National Parks
• Winter Sports
• Travelers with Disabilities
• Family & Kids
• All Slideshows
• Hotel Deals
• Car Rentals
• Flight Alerts
• Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
• Cruise News
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Car, Bus, Rail News
• Money & Fees
• Health, Insurance, Security
• Packing & Luggage
• -Arthur Frommer Online
• -Passportable
• Road Trip Guides
• Alaska Made Easy
• Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
• Best of the Caribbean
• Best of Mexico
• Cruise Inspiration
• Best Places to Go 2024

Top Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Shopping in Montreal

Skiing in Montreal

Best Montreal Beaches

Guide to Mount Royal Park

Top Museums to Visit

Live Music in Montreal

Montreal's Iconic Food

Best Bars in Montreal

Top Breweries to Visit

Best Restaurants

The Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Montréal-Trudeau International Airport Guide

Where to Stay in Montreal

Public Transit Guide

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Montreal

The 12 Best Day Trips from Montreal

Find places to visit just outside of Montreal, Quebec

It’s no secret that Montreal is a dynamic destination, offering everything from world-renowned restaurants and exciting nightlife to a hefty dose of history and amazing architecture. But it’s also well worth exploring beyond the city, and in the case of Montreal, there are a whole host of worthwhile options perfect for a day trip. Whether you’re interested in spending time in the great outdoors or simply exploring small towns packed with charm, there’s plenty to discovery. Read on for some of the best day trips from Montreal.

Quebec City: Charm and History

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

With a picturesque Old Town that also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage site and charming surprises down every winding cobblestone street, Quebec City is always a good idea for a day trip from Montreal. Myriad museums, incredible architecture, a scenic locale on the St. Lawrence River and a calendar full of festivals and fun events year-round ensure any day trippers will have plenty to keep them busy. Not only that, Quebec City is the only North American fortified city north of Mexico whose walls still exist.

Getting there : The easiest option for getting from Montreal to Quebec City is by taking the train. VIA Rail provides daily service between the two cities with a travel time of around three hours. If you prefer to drive, you can do so along Highway 20 with a travel time of three hours, depending on traffic.

Travel tip: Take a stroll along the charming pedestrian street of Petit‑Champlain, one of the oldest commercial streets in North America. Local shops, quaint cafes and great restaurants abound. In the winter, the street is illuminated with twinkle lights, further adding to its charm.

Ottawa: The Nation’s Capital

Getty Images/Mark Hogan Photography Ottawa, Canada

Canada’s capital city is worth a visit any time of year and offers something for every age and interest level. Home to seven of nine national museums, there are plenty of opportunities to soak up some culture here. Visitors will also want to spend some time along the Rideau Canal, Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk or cycle along the banks in the warmer months and in the winter, the canal transforms into the longest skating rink in the world. In addition, the city is home to a burgeoning craft beer scene, great restaurants and numerous water-based activities on the Ottawa River.

Getting there : Your best option is to utilize VIA Rail’s frequent train service between Montreal and Ottawa, with a travel time of around two hours.

Travel tip : Don’t miss a stroll around ByWard Market, packed with independent shops, a local farmers’ market in the summertime, specialty food shops, pubs, galleries and restaurants.

The Laurentians: Outdoor Adventure

Getty Images/Onfokus

The Laurentians are located just north of Montreal and offer some of the best options for day trippers looking to spend some time in the great outdoors. During the summer months, you have your pick of watersports (with over 9000 lakes and rivers to choose from this is no surprise). There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling, as well as snowshoeing and cross-country and downhill skiing in the winter.

Getting there : Getting from Montreal to the Laurentians is easily done via a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.

Travel tip : Take advantage of the many Nordic spas in the area, which provide the perfect place to unwind in nature. These havens of relaxation offer some combination of saunas, steam rooms, hot and cold pools and areas for simply soaking up the beautiful surroundings.

Mont Treblant: Four-Season Ski Resort

Getty Images/Pgiam

Well-known as a popular four-season ski resort and national park, Mont Tremblant makes for an easy day trip from Montreal. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, ice climbing, snow tubing and much more. Once the weather warms up there are a wide range of summer activities including hiking, mountain biking, swimming, canoeing and stand up paddling. There’s also a casino here as well as a wide selection of cozy restaurants serving regional cuisine.

Getting there : L’Express du Nord offers transportation from Montreal to Tremblant in the morning with return in the evening every Friday, Saturday and Sunday (around two hours). If you prefer to drive, the trip should take around 90 minutes.

Travel tip : Keep your eyes peeled for public art. The Public Art Circuit features a dozen works of art in Mont-Tremblant’s parks and municipal buildings in the downtown area as well as in Le Village and the resort area.

Long Sault Parkway, Ontario: Summer Fun

Located just west of Cornwall, Ontario, the Long Sault Parkway is a series of 11 islands connected by road. There are two beaches here making it a great option for a summer day trip. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors can canoe and kayak as well as head underwater for some fresh-water shipwreck diving. There are also many opportunities for hiking, fishing and wildlife viewing in the area.

Getting there : You can drive from Montreal to Long Sault Parkway in about 90 minutes.

Travel tip : Keep an eye out on the drive for authentic chip trucks, antique sales and other surprises along the way.

Eastern Townships: Local Food Galore

Getty Images/Danita Delimont

Quebec’s Eastern Townships offer everything from orchards and wineries to maple syrup producers, cheesemakers and  microbreweries. So if you’re a foodie, this might be a day trip from Montreal you’ll want to think about. If you’re not hopping from winery to winery or picking your own berries at an orchard, there are museums to visit, great shopping, excellent dining options and an array of outdoor activities to try (from hiking to cross-country skiing). The Eastern Townships are also a popular destination for cyclists.

Getting there : Getting from Montreal to the Eastern Townships is best done by car, with a driving time of one to two hours.

Travel tip : You can download a map for self-guided tours along the area’s cheesemaker’s circuit as well as the microbrewery circuit.

Le P'tit Train du Nord: Scenic Cycling

Getty Images/Jana Kriz

Cyclers of all stripes (from casual riders to more hardcore bikers) will want to put Le P'tit Train du Nord on their day tripping list. This scenic route through the Laurentian Mountains was once an old railway line that has now been converted into a popular bike path and cross-country ski trail. The 232-kilometere path is the longest park of its kind in Canada and is also used by walkers and runners (just remember to stay on the left side of the trail). Picnic areas can be found at numerous points along the trail making it ideal for a day trip with a DIY lunch al fresco.

Getting there : There is regular train service linking Montréal’s Gare Lucien L’Allier with the P’tit Train du Nord terminus in St-Jérôme. From there, a shuttle service drops cyclists at various trailheads along the route.

Travel tip : Make time to stop off at various small towns and villages along the route to grab a meal at a cozy pub or restaurant (many with outdoor terraces).

Îles-de-Boucherville National Park: Nature at its Best

You don’t have to stray far from Montreal for a day spend in nature. Îles-de-Boucherville National Park consists of a chain of scenic islands in the middle of the St. Lawrence. Active travellers have the option for everything from hiking and biking (there are over 30 kilometres of trails) to canoeing, fishing, stand-up paddling and more. Winter activities include snowshoeing, winter hiking and cross-country skiing.

Getting there : Driving to the park takes around 35 minutes from Montreal making it an easy and time-efficient day trip.

Travel tip : If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent canoes, kayaks, bikes, snowshoes, kayaks and more to use during your visit.

Granby Zoo: Fun with Furry Friends

Getty Images/HY. JIANG

The largest zoo and conservation area in Quebec, Granby Zoo is an ideal day trip from Montreal for families (or anyone interested in wildlife). The sprawling zoo is home to more than 1,800 animals representing 230 species from around the world. Animals are divided into four “loops” (the Africa, South America, Asia and Oceania loops) to make it easier to navigate what you want to focus your time on. There is also an animatronic dinosaur “zoo” featuring 21 full-scale animatronic dinosaurs.

Getting there : Granby Zoo is 50 miles (80 km) east of Montréal and is best reached by car via Highway 10.

Travel tip : In the summer months, visitors can cool off at the zoo’s water park filled with slides, water features, a heated wave pool and an adventure river.

Montebello: A Little Bit of Everything

Getty Images/Boris Kasimov

Located around the midpoint between Montreal and Ottawa on the north shore of the Ottawa River, Montebello offers a little bit of everything. Stop by a cozy pub for a local meal or take the kids to Park Omega where they can see a variety of Canadian animals in their natural habitat. The park is also home to walking trails, picnic areas and a restaurant. Visitors to Montebello can also enjoy golfing, water sports, boating, hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing

Getting there : Driving is your best bet for travel between Montreal and Montebello, which should take around 90 minutes.

Travel tip : Day trippers with a sweet tooth will want to stop in ChocoMotive to pick up some artisanal chocolates and see chocolate being made.

Oka: Small Town Charm

Getty Images/mirceax

The small town of Oka is a great jumping off point for a day spent exploring Oka National Park where there are many activities to choose from no matter when you visit. In the winter, choose from snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and winter hiking. While during the summer, there’s a large beach for swimming (lifeguards are on-site), picnic areas, pedal boats, and kayak and canoe rentals. In town, check out the many artist workshops and if you like cheese, head to the Oka cheese factory to taste some of their wares.

Getting there : Driving distance between Montreal and Oka is around 40 minutes and your best option for getting between the two destinations.

Travel tip : During the summer season on Sundays, make sure to stop by the Oka public market for an abundance of local, seasonal produce.

Sucrerie de la Montagne: Authentic Sugar Shack

Getty Images/Warchi

A Quebec Heritage site, the Sucrerie de la Montagne is an authentic sugar shack that (unlike most) is open year-round. Located in the midst of a 120-acre forest of century-old maple trees, a visit here feels a bit like stepping back in time thanks to the traditional buildings and the fact maple syrup here is produced the old fashioned way. If you’re visiting during February, March and April you can enjoy some maple taffy on snow, while year-round visitors can visit the sugar shack and bakery and enjoy rides in a horse-drawn carriage.

Getting there : Driving from Montreal to Sucrerie de la Montagne takes around 40 minutes and parking is free.

Travel tip : Stop by the general store on the way out to stock up on maple products from syrup to taffy to butter. The also sell some local handicrafts.

How to Travel From Montreal to Quebec City by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

A Comprehensive Gay Guide to Ottawa, Ontario

The Ultimate Quebec Road Trip From Montreal to Gaspé

The 9 Best Day Trips From Ottawa

The Top 20 Destinations in Canada

Where to Experience a Sugar Shack Meal in and Around Montreal

How to Travel From Toronto to Montreal by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The Best Things To Do in Tadoussac, Quebec

The Best Staycation in Every State

15 Los Angeles-Area Road Trips and Getaways

The 12 Best Day Trips From Detroit

The 8 Best Day Trips From Quebec City

5 Popular Montreal Ski Spots

The Top 12 Best Day Trips From Calgary

Montreal February Events and Attractions

10 Incredible Day Trips from Montreal, Canada

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Are you looking for the best day trips from Montreal? From skiing in Mont Tremblant to seeing the architecture of Ottawa, these are my top picks!

There’s a reason why Montreal is one of the most popular cities in Canada . With an amazing art scene, more restaurants than you’ll ever be able to eat at (trust me on that one) and this irresistible blend of French-Canadian culture, it’s very easy to base yourself in the city and see all it has to offer.

However, if you get off the beaten track then there are some fantastic day trips from Montreal. Being in the heart of Quebec, places like Quebec City, Ottawa and Mont Tremblant are all a short journey away.

Also, Montreal is very near to a number of amazing vineyards in the area. I bet you didn’t consider Canadian wine but I promise you it’s delicious, especially the ice wine which is famous in Quebec. Once I’ve popped a bottle of the sweet stuff it’s hard stopping! Just me???

As much as I love Montreal, I love getting out the city and into the countryside. From hiking around beautiful lakes to some of the best ski slopes in all of Canada, you’re not short of things to do near Montreal. And I promise you they’re worth the effort.

All of these Montreal day trips that I’ve featured are within a couple of hours of the city, so they’re easy to do in a day. No matter which one you choose to do you’re in for an amazing adventure!

If you’re looking at spending a few days in the city first then check out my guides to 3 days in Montreal and the best Montreal winter activities . These are packed full of all the best things to do in the city!

Are you planning an amazing holiday to Montreal? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!

Best hotels and apartments in Montreal:

• Le Mount Stephen (best rated 5* hotel)
• Hotel St.Thomas (best rated 4* hotel)
• Manoir Sherbrooke (best rated 3* hotel)

Best activities and tours in Montreal :

• Explore Old Montreal Walking Tour (top rated tour!)
• Guided Bike Tour of City, Old Port & Plateau
• St. Lawrence Sightseeing River Cruise

Best Day Trips from Montreal, Canada

Mont tremblant.

Mont Tremblant is one of those places that’s perfect to visit both in summer and winter.

During summer it has some of the best hiking around. If you make the hike to the top of Mont Tremblant you’ll be greeted with those vast landscapes that you can only get in Canada. Also, if you’re a mountain biker then there are some awesome downhill tracks in the area too.

However, I think I prefer it in winter when you can go skiing and snowboarding. The quaint village at Mont Tremblant was actually designed to look like a Swiss alpine town; imagine dreamy chalets and cute mountain huts and you’ll have the right idea.

The skiing and snowboarding is incredible here though. At 875m, Mont Tremblant is one of the highest mountains in the Laurentians National Park and offers a huge variety of runs for all types of skier.

Mont Tremblant is only a two-hour drive away from Montreal. It also has an airport just 20-minutes from the slopes, so if you’re short on time you can fly here too.

This fantastic full-day tour takes in the best of Mont Tremblant and even includes exploring the Laurentian Mountains too.

The Laurentians

I bet you’ve never heard of the Laurentian Mountains before, have you? Don’t worry, because if you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Montreal then you’ll definitely want to add this to the list.

For me, the Laurentian Mountains are what Canada’s all about. Crystal-clear lakes, rolling hills and mountains wherever you look, and cute alpine villages dotted all over the place. Forget the Swiss Alps, you can get the same thing in Canada too.

One of the best things to do in the Laurentians is to go on a self-guided driving tour around the area. There’s nothing quite like getting lost in the secluded tranquillity here. Also, you can park your car almost anywhere and go hiking – it doesn’t matter where as it’s all good.

The Laurentians is only an hour’s drive from Montreal so very easy to do in a day.

Quebec City

I will say this now – Quebec City is a bit of a trek to get to, but it is worth it! One of the things I loved about Quebec City is the architecture. Wherever you look there are these old ornate buildings that really highlight the history of the area. Quebec City is one of the oldest settlements built by European colonists in all of North America and you can see that all over the city.

The best way of seeing Quebec City is going on a walking tour or on a food tour of the city. Then you’ll learn all about the culture, history and see all the top sights in just a few hours.

I’d also recommend visiting the National Assembly of Qu é bec and the National Museum of Fine Arts of Qu é bec. I would say the latter is one of the best art museums in Canada.

All in all it is about a three hour drive away, so perhaps think about adding in an overnight stay so you can have longer in the city.

This Quebec City tour from Montreal takes you to all the best places in the city. On this tour you’ll also visit the beautiful Montmorency Falls all without the worry of having to dive yourself!

You can also see some of the best things to do in Old Quebec City here. It really is such a beautiful part of Canada!

Mont Sutton, Eastern Townships

This is another one for all you adrenaline junkies and winter sport lovers! If you’re looking for a really quiet ski resort where you’ll find more locals than tourists, then head to Mont Sutton in the Eastern Townships. This is a little over an hour away from Montreal.

There are 9 different lifts with 60 runs/trails to choose from; that’s before you factor in the off-piste skiing too. This makes Mont Sutton perfect for some family friendly fun.

Mont Sutton is almost famous for its glade skiing. This is essentially alpine skiing through the trees on a defined woods trail. If you’ve never seen it before its amazing – so quiet and peaceful as you make your way through the trees.

Omega Park & Montebello Lodge

For those of you looking to get out on Montreal for the day then this could be the tour for you.

Omega Park is a nature and historical park right in the heart of Canada. It’s a bit like a giant drive through safari but on the next level. If you want to discover Canada’s wildlife then you’ll see animals such as bison, bears, elk, moose and even wolves, all in their natural environment.

The journey through the park will be between 2 to 4 hours with plenty of opportunities to stops and take photos. Or, if you’re driving yourself then there are loads of hiking trails and picnic areas in park too.

From there you travel to the nearby Montebello Lodge, the largest log building in North America. Yep, you get to tick that off the list! Built in 1930, the lodge is nestled in the heart of the scenic Montebello village and surrounded by nature. This is in such a beautiful location.

Omega Park is an hour and a half from the city making this one of the most popular day trips from Montreal. One of the best ways of learning about Omega Park is on a private tour with a local . They’ll be able to give you all the history of the area and they’re the best as spotting all the wildlife too!

Iles-de-Boucherville National Park

This place is on the doorstep on Montreal but it feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Iles-de-Boucherville are actually a chain of islands that have some of the most beautiful waterways once they open up.

Much like with most places in Canada, Iles-de-Boucherville National Park is an amazing place for those who love being outdoors. In winter you can go snow-shoeing or cross-country skiing here, and in summer the place comes to life with hiking and canoeing on the lakes and rivers.

This huge expanse of protected natural reserve was once home to the First Nations people that lived here. There is an amazing educational tour this gives an insight into the reserve, as well as offering information on the conservation and wildlife you can find here.

Welcome to the capital of Canada! If you’re looking for world-class museums and amazing architecture then you’ll find it here.

There are so many sights and attractions in Ottawa that you can easily spend a full day here and not get bored. One of the most popular places to visit is Parliament Hill. Like the name suggests, this is the home of Canadian Parliament. You can actually go on a free tour of the Parliament buildings so I’d definitely recommend that. It’s also worth visiting this spot for the Gothic architecture – I think it’s some of the best in Canada.

Winter is also an amazing time to visit Ottawa as there’s the Winterlude Festival. This is where you’ll see some of the craziest ice sculptures from anywhere around the world. Think big… and then add some!

Ottawa is one of the most accessible day trips from Montreal with a number of bus routes and a rail line, so getting here is very quick and easy. Alternatively, you can go on this tour of Ottawa from Montreal which takes you to all the best spots without having to drive yourself.

Ottawa is always voted as one of the top 5 cities to visit in Canada . It’s very different to Montreal, so it’s great ticking off both of these places on one trip!

Sucrerie de la Montagne

I would say Sucrerie de la Montagne is one of those “must dos” while in Montreal – it’s just so unique!

If you’ve translated the French you’ll know Sucrerie de la Montagne means Sugar of the Mountain. This is where you’ll find an authentic sugar shack where they produce maple syrup.

Nestled in a 120-acre maple forest around Mont Rigaud, Sucrerie de la Montagne is like stepping back in time to see what life was like to those early Canadian pioneers.

Maple syrup is harvested from the maple trees, and here you can do it for yourself. There’s also a restaurant where you can try traditional dishes cooked with maple syrup for a very unique lunch or dinner.

Unlike many other sugar shacks, Sucrerie de la Montagne is open throughout the year meaning you get to taste the good stuff no matter when you visit.

Go on a wine tour

As I’ve already mentioned, there are some lovely vineyards just outside of Montreal. That means if you’re looking to try some delicious and unique wine then this is the place to do it. Wine is actually one of the fastest growing industries in Canada so its probably not what you’d expect.

One of the best ways of seeing a few different vineyards is going on a wine tour. Then you get to sample a huge variety of wines from the region including the infamous ice wine. This is where the grapes are left on the vines to freeze during winter so they produce a really sweet dessert wine. Traditionally served in small bottles, I could drink litres of the stuff.

There are a few half-day and full-day tours to choose from (usually where lunch is provided too) so this is an excellent option for those foodies among you!

Hike Calvaire D’Oka

If you love hiking then let me introduce you to Calvaire D’Oka. This is a sensational hike in Oka Provincial Park, a huge natural reserve complete with beautiful forests and lakes dotted around the place.

During summer the lakes are teeming with water sports such as kayaking and standup paddleboarding. Or you can rent a bike and take on some of the trails in the area. The hiking here on an Autumn falls day is incredible though and the colours on the trees are so beautiful.

During winter, you can go snow-shoeing through the forests or cross-country skiing. It doesn’t matter when you come here though as it is absolutely beautiful.

I really hope you found this post useful and hopefully it’ll inspire you to go on a few day trips from Montreal. That’s the idea anyway! If you’re looking for something a little closer to the city then I’d really recommend Mount Royal too. Technically it’s in Montreal but it’s an amazing place to visit for the day. You can check out my Mount Royal winter guide here !

Oh, and just a word of warning! Before booking your flights to Montreal, make sure you apply for an official Canadian Government ETA. It costs just $7.50 and you can apply via this link . Any other website that costs more is wrong – there are a lot of fake sites out there so make sure you book from the right one!

This post was in association with Explore Canada as part of the #ForGlowingHearts campaign. As always, all views and opinions are my own.

Are you planning a trip to Montreal? What are you thinking of doing while you’re there? Let me know if the comments below!

Like this blog post? Then make sure you pin it for the future!

About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

View all posts

1 thought on “10 Incredible Day Trips from Montreal, Canada”

Great Post!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

The 14 best weekend trips from Montreal to escape the city

Sharing is caring!

Montreal is a great city to visit and live in. But sometimes, you just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Here are the 14 best weekend trips from Montreal. These are the best cities and towns to visit within a short driving distance of Montreal. Some are perfect for nature weekend getaways, others are romantic escapes for couples, but all are amazing for a few days away from Montreal.

If you’re looking for a short road trip from Montreal to escape into nature, or if you want a change of scenery and want to explore a different city altogether, you came upon the right article.

We asked some of our fellow bloggers to share their favorite weekend escapes from Montreal. Below, you’ll find some of the best places to explore that are only a few hours from the city. Discover what makes these destinations so special, what to do there, and when to visit.

Weekends are pretty awesome times to visit these places, but they sometimes tend to get crowded. If you’re looking to really get away and want to mingle with locals, then make sure you head out to these spots during the week. And if you love the place, stay longer and really get to know the area.

If a weekend trip is too long, you can always check out our article for the 20 best day trips from Montreal . They’re all less than 2 hours away from the city. You can also read our full article about the most iconic road trips in Quebec to inspire you a little more.

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.

We thank you again for your continued support. 

🏠 Find the perfect place to stay with  Booking.com

✈️ Get the cheapest flights with Skyscanner

🚣 Book your favorite activities with Viator

💻 Make sure you have everything you need for your epic trip by checking our store on Amazon

The 14 best weekend trips near Montreal, in Quebec

First, let’s start off with the best destinations in the province of Quebec. We’ve ordered the spots from closest to furthest, so you can plan the perfect escape from Montreal.

1. Montebello, the perfect short trip from Montreal

Montebello is a perfect destination to visit if you are looking for a weekend trip from Montreal. Located on the North Shore of the Ottawa River, Montebello village is a 1-and-a-half hour car drive from Montreal. It’s also located in one of our favorite hidden gem regions of Quebec, the Outaouais – a region where there is always a ton to do !

One of the most famous parts of the town is the world-famous  Château Montebello resort , the largest log structure ever built. It has often been used as a conference center for important Canadian government meetings, NATO conferences, and G7 Summit.

The compound has facilities for cross-country skiing, dog sledding, golf, boating, and snowmobiling. The town also hosts the huge music festival Montebello RockFest which takes place once a year where music lovers come from far-off places to witness it.

Montebello has some great stays and food options but reservations have to be made well in advance. You can enjoy the lush forest, rural landscape, and accompanying mountains. You can also take to hike around the Plaisance Falls which offers some great scenic views of the 63 m fall.

Explore the Géo-Rallye, an electric bike scavenger hunt, a fun activity that would give you a tour of the landscape. Visit some national historic sites like Manoir-Papineau. Enjoy some fresh cheese at Fromagerie Montebello and some craft beer at Brasseurs de Montebello.

You can typically plan a visit for the weekend, however, if you plan to explore the city in detail, a 3-4 day timeframe would help. It’s a perfect romantic getaway from Montreal over the weekend, especially with a stay at the iconic Château Montebello .

2. Orford, a quick weekend escape near Montreal for nature-lovers

Contributed by yours truly at We Did It Our Way

Orford is a great city to visit in the Eastern Townships , about 1h40 from Montreal. It’s a great short trip from Montreal for nature lovers. It’s located at the foot of the beautiful mountains that are part of the Mont Orford national park .

The Mont-Orford National Park is the perfect place to go for a hike , get a view of the Eastern Townships, or try some of the water activities in the summer. You can also go snowshoeing or skiing in the winter months. But if you ask us, the fall is the best time to go because of all the colorful leaves.

Orford is also a great place to get away from Montreal if you’re a foodie. To get a real taste of the local offering, you can drive the wine route and stop along the way for a tasting or two. We recommend having a designated driver so you can really enjoy the route.

There are also many ciders made in the area, so make sure you try them out too! If beer is more of your thing, you can drive the microbrewery route instead. It’s a great way to support local businesses.

There are a ton of towns nearby as well, so if you’re looking to set up base in Orford and explore around, we highly recommend you stay at Chalets Hygge . They offer a ton of different Scandinavian-style chalets that vary in size. They’re the perfect place to call home while you check out what else there is to do in and around Orford.

3. Magog, a nature lover’s weekend trip from Montreal

Contributed by Ruma from The Holiday Story

Magog is the perfect destination for a short road trip from Montreal for nature lovers. The town is only 77 miles (125 km) away from Montreal. It’s located at the confluence of Lake Memphremagog, Rivière aux Cerises, and Magog River, Canada. 

The town gives off a picturesque view with its vineyards and lakes. The place is heavily influenced by its French residents which comprise more than 90% of the total population. Today, it thrives mainly as a tourist destination. There are several things to do in Magog if you go over for a 2-day getaway from Montreal. Here are some of the best things to do:

• Lake Memphremagog : The entire town is named after this lake. It is a long and narrow glacial lake shared by both Canadian and US provinces. Previously it was used only as a canoe route. Now the boat tours here are the most popular activity to be done in Magog. You can also go for a swim in the summer months.
• Musée International d’Art Naif : This is the only existing museum in Canada dedicated to exhibiting naïve art. Artworks of both local and overseas artists are displayed here. The museum offers a free tour for visitors. 
• Marais de la Riviere aux Cerises : It’s a 3-km long walking trail through the forests and marshlands of Magog. It comprises wooden footbridges along with forest trails. The diverse scenic beauty surpasses any other trail. Fall is the best time to visit. Free parking is available at both ends.

The town is laden with resorts and is a popular tourist destination. The local restaurants and cafes provide authentic French delicacies. All in all, it is a good place for a weekend overnight stay.

4. Val David, a short road trip from Montreal

Contributed by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Val-David is a charming French-Canadian village in the Laurentian Mountains, 80 km north of Montreal. This picture-perfect town is tiny but is full of scenery, arts, and adventure. It’s perfect for a winter escape from Montreal.

During the colder seasons, Val-David is a popular destination for winter activities. Cross-country skiers will find a network of groomed trails for all abilities in the natural areas surrounding the town. Le P’tit Trail du Nord is a linear park that runs right through downtown for fabulous cross-country skiing. The reclaimed rail right-of-way travels 200 km from Saint-Jérôme and Mont-Laurier. You can also snowshoe into ice caves at the Val-David Regional Park.

Other winter activities include ice skating and hockey at the downtown ice rink with a cozy warming center. Alpine ski enthusiasts will find many classic ski resorts within a short drive. An outdoor equipment store has rental equipment for many outdoor adventures in all seasons.

In warmer weather, the artistic shops and quaint cafes will charm visitors. Cyclists will enjoy biking on Le P’tit Trail du Nord along the free-flowing Rivèrie du Nord . A kayak trip on the river is also possible. Bouldering and rock climbing is popular on the cliffs of the Val-David Regional Park Dufresne sector. Additionally, hiking trails take you through beautiful boreal forests.

Finish your day’s activities with a visit to the local microbrewery. Order from the menu of creative regional cuisine and enjoy a flight of the best craft brews. Spend a couple of nights at a local bed and breakfast to enjoy all the activities and small village charm of Val-David.

Summer or winter, this is a perfect escape from Montreal. It’s a short road trip from the city and it allows you to fully jump into nature.

5. Mont-Tremblant, another great weekend road trip near Montreal

Contributed by Devin of Deventuretime

Mont-Tremblant is an amazing place to visit all year round as there are plenty of restaurants, events, and things to do in the area. It’s located just over an hour and a half from Montreal, making it a great weekend or day trip from the city . The area is home to a ski resort, casino, spas, great restaurants, and plenty of activities for the whole family.

A  winter getaway to Mont-Tremblant  is a popular way to experience the area. During this time, the ski resort is open and attracts visitors from all around, and offers plenty of exciting things to do in winter. Aside from skiing and snowboarding, visitors can go tubing, skating, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and indulge in delicious hot chocolate.

During the summer, the mountains at the resort turn into a great place to go hiking. Visitors can take the gondola to the top of the mountain and adventure around the trails at the top. There are a number of summer activities offered, including a luge, climbing tower, mini-golf, and more.

The village at the resort is fun to visit all year round and is home to many shops, candy stores, and much more. There is even a stall for the famous BeaverTails dessert, which is a fried pastry topped with a variety of sweets. Nearby, there is a popular Scandinavian Spa for those looking to relax on their trip to Mont-Tremblant and a casino that is great to visit in the evening after dinner.

There are plenty of delicious French Restaurants around Mont-Tremblant to check out as well. C’est la Vie boasts a great fine-dining experience, serving up unique meats and great wines. The food alone is reason enough to visit Mont-Tremblant on a weekend road trip from Montreal !

Mont-Tremblant offers a ton of accommodations . You can choose to stay in the resort village or rent a place that is close by. If you’re looking to rent a lovely cabin a few minutes away from Mont-Tremblant, we highly recommend staying at Ölch Cabin . This Scandinavian-style cabin is nestled in nature and offers all the comforts (and more) you can ever ask for.

6. Gatineau Park, a great nature lover’s escape from Montreal and Ottawa

Contributed by Nina of Nina Out and About 

Gatineau Park is an essential short trip from Montreal for nature lovers. Located by the border between Quebec and Ontario, Gatineau Park is a national park full of hiking trails, camping spots, and fun outdoor activities. Add it to a stop on your  Quebec road trip itinerary  to make the most of the area.

Gatineau Park is an amazing destination to visit in the summer or the winter. Summer features long hiking trails that lead to waterfalls , overlooks across the lakes, and historical ruins. You can find the remnants of a Prime Minister’s home on the McKenzie King trail.

In winter, Gatineau Park becomes a haven for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Most of the trails close to hikers so you can fly down them at high speeds on your skis. You can bring these with you from Montreal or rent a pair in the nearby town.

When you need some relaxation after all of that hiking, check out the Nordik Spa for amazing treatments. Soak in their outdoor hot pools, letting any tension melt away from your muscles. Or upgrade and get a massage and facial.

You’ll be so relaxed you’ll happily melt into your sleeping bag at a camp in the park. Most people opt to camp in tents in the designated areas throughout Gatineau Park. Some people prefer to book accommodations at local lodges and B&Bs for a more luxurious experience.

Staying for at least 2 days is how to get the best experience of the national park.

When you visit Gatineau Park, be sure to stop at some of the nearby towns before you leave. They have adorable cafes with sausage rolls and homemade pies that will warm your belly on your journey back to Montreal.

7. Mont-Mégantic National Park, the perfect weekend getaway from Montreal

Contributed by Audrey of That Backpacker

If you’re looking for a nature escape with a side of star-gazing, I would recommend  visiting Mont-Mégantic National Park .

Located a 2.5-hour drive from Montreal, Mont-Mégantic is situated in the heart of the first International Dark Sky Reserve. That means it’s an astronomy lover’s paradise. Because there is hardly any light pollution in the area, it’s the perfect weekend destination near Montreal to turn your gaze upwards and marvel at the stars. Plus, there’s also plenty of hiking to be enjoyed by day!

For accommodations, I would recommend staying in the park where they have these spacey, futuristic-looking cabins named after each of the planets in our solar system. You’ll be surrounded by nature, and have access to hiking trails right at your doorstep.

If camping is not your thing, we have two other accommodations nearby that are close enough to the Mont-Mégantic National Park – Chalet Hygge & Laö Cabines

Another place not to miss on your visit is the ASTROLab , which offers daytime guided tours with exhibits focusing on earth and space. You can also watch a film called  Cosmic Rhythms , which really puts into perspective just how vast our universe is. Make sure you check out entrance conditions before going.

For a nice dinner, Aux Toits Rouges is highly recommended, which specializes in regional cuisine. They have dishes featuring royal quail and duck from Lac Brome, and their maple syrup pie is a must-try!

Mont-Mégantic is a fun nature escape year-round, however, if you’re an astronomy enthusiast, you may want to plan your visit in the summertime. The Popular Astronomy Festival takes place in July and is the biggest gathering of novice, amateur, and professional astronomers in Québec. This is also one of the few times of the year when the public is granted access to the Mont-Mégantic Observatory to scan the skies using a 1.6-meter telescope. Another important event is the Perseid Meteor Shower, which is visible every year from mid-July to mid-August. The ASTROLab puts on a special program and invites people to spend the night under the stars.

Not only is Mont-Mégantic national park a great place to hike and explore, the town is also the perfect nature escape from Montreal.

8. Québec City, a big city weekend escape close to Montreal

Contributed by Stephanie from The World As I See It

For a fabulous weekend getaway from Montreal head to Quebec City. Located approximately three hours outside of Montreal, Quebec City is a must-visit! Home to UNESCO World Heritage status, a wealth of museums and an old-world charm that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a village in Europe, old Quebec City has something for everyone.

With so many great things to do in Quebec City the ideas to fill your days are endless. If you love exploring the history of places you visit then you’ll love the wealth of historical sites, museums, and walking tours. Be sure to wander the Old City Gates, visit Place Royal and the Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site.

Whether you’re looking for incredible architecture or epic views there are a ton of great  photography spots in Quebec City  too. Like the views atop Pierre-Dugua-De Mons Terrace or the iconic Chateau Frontenac . A few other things to add to your itinerary should include a ride on the Funicular, stroll Rue de Petit Champlain, explore the thriving art scene and visit Battlefields Park.

A weekend trip to Quebec City is ideal any time of year depending on your preference. For fun festival vibes visit in the winter for the Winter Carnival. If you’re looking for more comfortable temperatures and the ideal time to explore the city’s parks consider a trip in the summer. Any time is a great time to visit Quebec City. And with an endless list of things to do, places to go and fantastic restaurants you’ll want to plan at least two to three days to truly appreciate this incredible city.

If you want to explore a different city than Montreal, and want to get immersed in Old-France vibes, this is the weekend road tri p you need!

9. Ile d’Orléans, a quick trip from Quebec City, and a weekend road trip from Montreal

While you’re visiting Quebec City, and even as a quick escape near Montreal, Ile d’Orléans is a great place to explore. This little island, about 3 hours from Montreal, is a local produce lover’s heaven! In fact, some of the best local strawberries all around the province of Quebec come from Ile d’Orléans. It’s well worth the detour to get your fill. You even have the choice of picking these scrumptious berries yourself.

While you’re on Ile d’Orléans, make sure to stop and check out the Observation Tower which gives you great views of the island and the shores across the St Lawrence River. On clear days, you can see pretty far.

For foodies, check out Tigidou jams , a great local producer of jams, sorbets, and other delicious treats made from local produce. There are also quite a few wineries that are on the island. We loved our stop at Isle de Bacchus vineyard! We had a tasting menu of wines where we tried 6-7 of their best sellers. Another must is Cassis Monna et Filles. It’s an economuseum where you can discover the island’s famous blackcurrant liqueur, try their ice cream or other blackcurrant delicacies.

On your way to or from Ile d’Orléans, don’t miss the  Montmorency Waterfalls . You can spot them from a mile away! They’re one of the largest waterfalls in Quebec . You can zipline over them, check out the many vantage points, take the cable car, or just admire them from the suspension bridge that goes above them. They really are impressive when you’re close by!

There are a few places to stay on the Ile d’Orléans, but if you’re looking for an escape from Montreal, or from Quebec city, check out Nöge Hébergement . Here, you can disconnect from the stressful world around you, and reconnect with nature.

10. Saguenay Lac-St-Jean, a perfect region to discover near Montreal

The Saguenay Lac-St-Jean area is the perfect weekend destination near Montreal, and the summer is an amazing time to visit the region. The weather warms up, the days get longer, the local produce offering is incredible and there are a ton of beautiful places to visit and things to do outdoors.

The Saint-Jean region is known for its beautiful bike paths. The most popular one is the Blueberry Route, a 256-kilometer pathway that goes all the way from the estuary to up and around the lake. Its name is no coincidence either. There are a ton of blueberries to pick along the route so if you’re looking for a delicious snack, don’t be shy to stop and pick some. This region is famed for its delicious berries.

In the region, you can visit The Fjord du Saguenay national park is amazing for hiking or canoeing. There’s also the Ouiatchouan hiking trail which is a multi-day hike that crosses the amazing waterfall that bears the same name as the trail. You can also visit the Val Jalbert ghost town or one of the many museums in the area. Plus, there are a ton of small cute towns that are worth the detour.

Finally, if you’re looking to relax, you’re in luck. The Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean region has some of the best beaches that are near Montreal. The best ones are located around the lake.

If you’re looking to escape Montreal for the weekend, make sure you stop and enjoy everything the Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean region has to offer.

Looking for more fun things to do around the province of Quebec? Here are some of our articles to help you plan the best trips: – The best things to do in the Eastern Townships – Unique cabins to book around Quebec – The best things to do in Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean – The best hikes around Montreal – National Parks around Montreal you should check out – The best national parks in Quebec – The best waterfalls in Quebec – Top 10 attractions in Quebec’s Côte Nord – A trip to the Magdalen Islands – The best day trips from Montreal – The best things to do in Outaouais

Weekend getaways from Montreal in Ontario

11. kingston, a cute town to explore on a weekend road trip from montreal.

Contributed by Alicia from travelswiththecrew.com

Kingston is a city in Eastern Ontario, Canada, and it’s a great place to visit as a weekend trip from Montreal or from Toronto . It’s a perfect destination for people who enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing and hiking. It is also a great destination for people who love good food and a quaint downtown.

The best things to do in Kingston are to visit the Fort Henry National Historic Site. This famous fort was built in 1812 and served as a strategic defense against the United States. Next, check out the Rideau Canal, which is one of the largest man-made waterways in North America. It stretches from Ottawa to Lake Ontario and passes through Kingston on its way. You can visit the Rideau canal locks, or even rent a boat to take the scenic voyage.

In the evening, go for a hike at Frontenac Provincial Park. These trails offer scenic views of Lake Ontario, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way! You can also relax outdoors on Kingston’s waterfront. The city has many walkways right by its beautiful lakeshore that are perfect for taking enjoyment from nature to your heart’s content.

Visit Kingston’s City Hall. This beautiful art deco building is a historic landmark that was built in the late 1920s. Go for a walk through downtown Kingston with its brick streets and quaint shops! There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants, concert venues, and more to choose from within this area. Some of the city’s best restaurants are Tony’s Pizzeria & Restaurant, Casa Domenico, or the Kingston Brewing Company.

A weekend trip is the perfect amount of time to see what Kingston has to offer and to really feel like you got to know the city. There are also plenty of accommodations to choose from , so book a night, take your time and enjoy this little gem!

12. Ottawa, discover Canada’s capital, a quick trip from Montreal

Contributed by Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best weekend trips from Montreal is one to the city of Ottawa. You can find Ottawa on the border with Quebec, in the province of Ontario. The city is best known for being the capital of Canada and for its history. This makes it a very interesting place to visit! Moreover, there are lots of things to do and see in Ottawa.

One of the best things to do is to visit the National Gallery of Canada. You find here a large collection of artworks from all around the world. In total, you find here almost 100,000 different pieces of art.

Another great place to visit in the city is Parliament Hill. This is where you find a beautiful Neo-Gothic building that is the home of the Canadian legislature. Also, the Canadian Museum of History is definitely worth visiting. This is the perfect place if you want to learn about the human history of the country of Canada and the diversity of the people that live in the country.

Besides that, Rideau Canal is great to see as well. This is a beautiful canal that connects the city of Ottawa to Lake Ontario. This is also a fun place, as you can go biking here, go sailing through it by boat, or go ice skating in winter!

There is no one perfect time to visit the city of Ottawa, the city is great during every season! You can also cover the highlights of the city during a 2-day weekend, but you can easily spend more time here if you want to see even more!

Looking for the best things to do in Ottawa? Check out our article that covers the top 10 activities to do on a weekend in Canada’s capital.

13. Prince Edward County, a peaceful 3-day weekend escape from Montreal

Contributed by Taima from PoorinaPrivatePlane.com

Located on Lake Ontario, less than four hours away from Montreal, Prince Edward County makes for a great 3-day weekend destination. In the winter, you can take advantage of activities such as snowshoeing and ice skating. And in the summer, spend the weekend on the beach and cooling off on the shores of Lake Ontario.

Not to be confused with Prince Edward Island, Prince Edward County is a hidden gem. Here you can go wine tasting in many of the local vineyards. Visit one of the many brew pubs. Or just spend a relaxing weekend in one of the inns near the Lake. 

For those that like beer, check out Midtown Brewing Company. But the food and beer here are phenomenal.

If wine is more your style there are so many wineries/vineyards to choose from. Sandbanks are one of the most popular and a must-visit for first-timers to Prince Edward County. Other must-visits in the area are Sugarbush, Trail Estate, and Traynor.

In the summer be sure to check out Sandbanks Park located right on Lake Ontario. This is a popular place to visit both in the summer and winter. In the summer, enjoy the sunshine and take a dip in the lake. In the winter, the park turns into a winter wonderland.

There are many smaller inns where you can stay in town. However, if you are looking for more inexpensive options, or if the smaller inns are sold out, then check out Belleville which is just over the bridge.

14. Toronto, a big city weekend getaway from Montreal

Contributed by Carolin from Happy when Abroad

From Montreal, it takes about 5 hours by train to reach Toronto, Canada’s largest city in the province of Ontario. Along the way, you will pass the picturesque Ontario Lake. Being home to over six million people, Toronto is not only a popular tourist destination in North America but also the largest city in Canada.

The city offers numerous attractions and activities for every season and for every kind of budget. Climbing up the unmistakable CN Tower and taking a boat to the Toronto Islands should definitely be on your  Toronto Bucket List .

If you are traveling on a budget, there are many options for you as well. Free activities in the metropolis include walking around the lovely harbor front, enjoying the view over Lake Ontario while eating ice cream, soaking in the vivid atmosphere, and the colorful hustle-and-bustle, at Yong-Dundas Square as well as strolling around the historic Distillery District. On top, you should not miss trying all the delicious food at Kensington Market and St. Lawrence Market and taking photos of painted walls in Graffiti Alley.

It is hard to say which is the best time to visit Toronto, because at every time of the year, there are different things to do and see. If you want to go on boat trips and enjoy the harbor front, it is better to come in summer (June-September). However, you can enjoy the many ice-skating rinks and Christmas markets in winter.

As you can see, there are always many things to do and see in Toronto. From one day to several weeks, the city will not become boring for you so easily.

Here are the 14 best weekend trips from Montreal

As always, here are the best weekend escapes near Montreal. Of course, these are places you can go to on a quick drive and spend the weekend discovering their beauty. However, if you want to take a bit more time and really enjoy your time, take a few extra days in these amazing towns and cities.

• Mont-Tremblant
• Gatineau Park
• Mont-Mégantic
• Quebec City
• Ile d’Orléans
• Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
• Prince Edward County

Of course, there are a ton of other small towns around Montreal that are worth a visit. But if you’re looking to make the best of your weekend getaways, without going too far from the city, these are your best bets.

We tried to keep these places close enough to the city so that you have ample time to explore the destination once you get there. Wherever you decide to go, make sure you visit the place respectfully and leave without leaving a trace.

Let us know in the comments if there are other places near Montreal that are great weekend destinations.

We put a lot of time and effort into the content we create. Please like, comment and share, every action on your part helps us out tremendously and is very much appreciated.

You can also help us by pinning it for others to find.

You Might Also Like:

12 unique accommodations & chalets in Quebec for your next vacation

22 amazing places to visit in Quebec – top cities, regions & attractions in Quebec

Top 10 things to do on a weekend trip to Ottawa no matter the season

Submit a comment cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

We’re Carine and Derek, two Canadians in love with each other, the environment and this world. We left our old routines behind to discover all the wonders our planet has to offer. We want to inspire everyone to chase their dreams and leave a positive impact on Earth.

Let’s keep in touch!

Sign up for our newsletter to get our free e-book as well as our latest updates, travel recommendations, eco-friendly advice, inspiration, good vibes and so much more.

Thanks, see you in your inbox!

How to build a micro-influencer media kit – Step-by-step instructions for new content creators

Big or small, every influencer or content creator needs a media kit. They’re a part of the essential tools you need if you want to collaborate with brands. All too often, they're poorly made and lack the important information brands need to know that they HAVE TO work...

31 easy ways to go plastic-free

For July, we joined hundreds of million people around the world to go plastic-free. Our goal was to avoid all plastic for #plasticfreejuly. During the whole month, we shared our tips with our Instagram community to help them ditch plastic too. These are our 31 easy...

Your ultimate 2-week Honduras itinerary – The best things to do on vacation in Honduras

Welcome to the most underrated and under-visited country in Central America, Honduras. If you’re here, you’re probably thinking about visiting this beautiful country, and we’re here to tell you that you’re in for a real treat! Most people avoid Honduras, thinking it’s...

Follow us on Social Media

6 easy must-do weekend trips from Montreal

One of Canada's most vibrant and historic cities, Montreal is a little slice of French elegance and sophistication in North America. The biggest city in the French-speaking province of Québec, Montreal is unquestionably one of Canada's cultural capitals. Located on an island in the St. Lawrence River, Montreal is known for having some of North America's best nightlife and food experiences. Plus, Old Montreal offers visitors the kind of charming historic district that can be hard to find in any other Canadian city or in most cities in North America in general.

With all this going on, it's no surprise that Montreal itself is a popular destination for weekend getaways and longer holidays. And with only a few days to spend, you can easily find plenty to do within Montreal itself to keep you busy.

However, if you live in the city or if you have a little longer to spend here, don't neglect the perfect weekend getaway. Weekend getaways from Montreal allow you to discover so much more in this beautiful and historic part of Canada. With rich history combined with beautiful natural areas, not to mention the odd ski resort and National Park, weekend getaways from Montreal offer just about everything you need for an incredible vacation.

Whether you're planning a day trip or weekend getaway, you'll have a much easier time if you don't carry more than you need to. Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Montreal to take advantage of these incredible weekend getaways. Traveling light will make it much easier to enjoy all the incredible activities you can take part in while you're in Québec.

Mont Megantic National Park

Montreal is a fantastic place to explore for those who want to see a little bit of the Canadian wilderness on a weekend getaway. This incredible National Park is only a short distance from the city, but it offers a range of exciting outdoor activities that make it feel like a long way away.

Distance from Montreal:

It's around 240 km from the center of Montreal to Mont Megantic National Park . Expect to drive to take around two and a half hours.

Our activity recommendations:

• Hiking: Mont Megantic offers hundreds of miles of hiking trails where you can easily lose yourself in the beautiful wilderness of this spectacular natural area. Bring your hiking boots and get ready to explore the path less traveled. Even though this National Park is popular thanks to its proximity to the big city of Montreal, it's easy to find places that you'll have all to yourself.
• Cross-country skiing: When the snow falls, all those miles of hiking trails make this National Park the ideal location for cross-country skiing. Bring a pair of skis or rent a pair in the city to explore this winter wonderland in the quieter season.
• Stargazing: Mont Megantic was the first International Dark Sky Reserve in North America. That means the park has incredibly dark skies that provide the ideal backdrop the peering into the galaxy. In the summer, park rangers provide astronomical programs that will teach you more about the night sky, and you may even get lucky enough to see the spectacular Northern Lights from here.

Best season to visit:

It might seem like the outdoor activities of this National Park make it a place best visited in the summer. However, nature lovers know that sometimes, the off-season is the best time to visit. If you can handle the cold, the snowy beauty of this National Park is definitely something you'll want to experience, and chances are good you'll have the place all to yourself.

Eastern Townships

One of the more historically English-speaking areas of Québec, the Eastern Townships offer tons of intriguing villages to explore, combined with great outdoor activities. One of the most popular weekend getaways from Montreal, there's always something new to discover, so however you like to spend your time, it's worth considering a visit here.

It's impossible to give an exact distance for this large region, but you can reach what's generally recognized as the Eastern Townships in less than two hours of driving from Montreal. Once you're there, expect to do quite a bit more driving as you explore all the different villages and parks, each with its own unique character.

• Provincial parks: The Eastern Townships are home to no fewer than four provincial parks, all of them offering great places for nature lovers to enjoy a fantastic day trip or weekend trip. Hiking and mountain biking are popular activities here in the summer, while skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing are some of the favorite winter sports.
• Golf: The Eastern Townships have the highest concentration of golf courses in all of Québec. Visit during the golfing season, and you'll have your pick of great courses to play at.
• Sugar shacks: In winter, the countryside around the Eastern Townships comes alive to the sound of running sap. Harvesting maple syrup has been the backbone of the local economy here for centuries, and it still goes on to this day. Visit the sugar shacks here and try maple syrup and snow cones while you participate in a great Canadian tradition.

The Eastern Townships are a year-round destination, so the best time to visit on weekend getaways from Montreal will depend on how you want to spend your time. If you want to play golf or go hiking, summer is ideal, while early spring is when the sugar shacks open up and begin their annual syrup harvest.

Knowlton is just one of seven villages that make up the Brome Lake area. That makes this a great place to explore Québec history or indulge in winetasting. If you want to experience the quieter side of life outside Montreal, Knowlton can be a great jumping-off point for a fun weekend break.

It's roughly 100 km from central Montreal to Knowlton, so you can explore this quaint Victorian town with a drive of little more than an hour.

• Brome Wine Route: This wine route spends over 160 km, starting close to Montreal and running through Knowlton. Along the way, you'll encounter dozens of local wineries and be able to sample what they produce. Many of the wineries are also home to some great restaurants, so it's a great way for foodies and wine lovers alike to enjoy the countryside around Montréal.
• Brome County Museum: This region was once a hotbed of Loyalist activity during the battle between French and British forces for sovereignty over Québec. You can learn more about this fascinating story and other aspects of the region's history, including the involvement of soldiers from here in the First World War, at this small but interesting museum.
• Midnight Madness: If you're in the region during Christmas, don't miss this festive celebration. Midnight Madness includes a Christmas market along with tastings of food and wine and live entertainment to chase away the gloom of the winter season.

Summer is a great time to visit this region since the warm weather will make you want to explore the countryside around Knowlton. However, Midnight Madness makes the winter season far more cheerful, so you should also consider a weekend getaway to Knowlton at this time of year.

Quebec City

This incredible city is truly unique. The only walled city in North America north of Mexico, Quebec City is an amazing destination to visit for history lovers thanks to its National Historic Site and UNESCO World Heritage status. But this is also a living city full of culture, art, and delicious food, so it's a great place to visit on a weekend getaway at any time of year.

It's over 250 km between the two major cities of Québec, which makes Quebec City a bit of a stretch for a day trip. However, it's the perfect length for a longer weekend excursion, and when you consider everything there is to do here, you'll want to spend the extra time in the city anyway.

• Old Québec: Take a stroll through the streets of this atmospheric city, and you could be forgiven for thinking you're in a medieval French town instead of a Canadian one. Possibly the most charming historic district in all of Canada, Old Québec will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.
• Try the food: Québecois food is as unique as everything else about the province. The jury is still out on whether Montreal or Québec City is the best place to try the unique flavors of the province, so why not try both? Quebec City has great restaurants where you can try the local produce and see the French influence on Canadian cuisine.
• Explore the art galleries: Art lovers will think they've died and gone to heaven in this cultured city. Home to some incredible art galleries like the Musee National des beaux-arts du Quebec and the Musee Dark-Art, the vibrant cultural scene of Québec City will keep art lovers entertained for hours.

Quebec City is a great place to explore at any time of year. With fascinating museums and art galleries as well as its restaurants, you can have fun here no matter what the weather outside is doing.

Oka National Park

This popular tourist destination is another great place to get a sense of Québec's great outdoors. Leave your bags behind in Montreal and explore the Canadian wilderness without going too far from the city.

Situated on the beautiful Lake of Two Mountains, this stunning park is only around 60 km from downtown Montreal, so you won't need to drive more than an hour to get here.

• Oka Beach: Montreal isn't usually thought of as a beach destination, but just outside the city, this popular beach is where locals come to enjoy cold water and radiant sunshine. Head out to explore the water on a kayak or canoe or simply stretch out on the sand to enjoy the sun, and you'll be enjoying the countryside around Montreal just like the locals do.
• Hiking: This National Park has hundreds of hiking trails that make fantastic places to explore in the summer. And when the winter snow begins to fall, they also become excellent for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Whatever season you like to visit, you will have fun on these beautiful trails.

Summer, obviously, is the best time to lay out on the beach and enjoy the sun. But winter brings its own charms to this National Park, so there's really no bad time to visit here.

Canada's capital city is often underrated as a tourist destination, but it provides a great option for weekend getaways from Montreal.

Distance from :

It's 200 km from one city to the next, a drive you can make in around two hours, making it suitable for a day trip and a weekend adventure. Unusually for Canadian destinations, you can also take a train, which is just as quick as a car.

• Rideau Canal ice skating: The Rideau Canal connects the Ottawa River to Lake Ontario, making this a historically and economically important waterway. But it's also a great place for recreation. In the winter, the canal freezes over and becomes the perfect outdoor ice-skating rink.
• Parliament Hill: The home of the Canadian government, Parliament Hill is one of the most important historic sites in the entire country. Admire the architecture of the federal buildings and get a deeper insight into the history and culture of Canada.

Ottawa is a year-round destination. No matter what time of year you decide to go, you'll find plenty to do here.

Montreal is an exciting place with so much to keep anyone entertained, and whether you're looking to spend a weekend or a lifetime in the city, you won't run out of great activities. If you only have a short time to spend in the city, for example, 3 days in Montreal , you're better off staying in the city and enjoying everything it has to offer to the fullest.

However, with a little more time at your disposal, you can consider branching out and exploring some of the surrounding regions. Whether you're looking for the perfect day trip from Montreal or a fun weekend adventure, these weekend getaways give you lots to do.

Explore the world

Love discounts and traveling?

Sign up for our newsletter to get insider travel tips and a 10% discount delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam here, just the good stuff.

Get the Bounce app

Instantly find locations nearby to drop off your luggage wherever you go.

15 Best Winter Road Trips from Montreal

Are you looking for an escape from Montreal's famously frosty winters? While you may be tempted to book the first flight out to some tropical paradise, we think there's no time like the wintertime to hop in the car, enjoy your road trip playlist, and explore nearby hidden holiday gems.

We've compiled some of our favourite winter stops in Canada and the United States, ranging from cozy Christmas villages and snowy National Parks to luxurious ski resorts and historic holiday cities. Choose from one of fifteen winter road trips from Montreal and discover just how breathtaking winter can really be. Whether you're looking for something cozy and comfortable, an outdoor adventure, or a sunny escape, there's sure to be a trip for you.

You can reach Mont Tremblant and Ottawa in under 2 hours from Montreal; and Quebec City, Saguenay Fjord and Boston if you take a weekend. For a longer winter trip, New York City, Niagara Falls and Washington DC are under 10 hours away from Montreal.

Keep scrolling to discover our favourite winter road trips from Montreal, organized from nearest to furthest and ready to be programmed into your GPS!

Best winter road trips from Montreal: a quick overview

Single day trips (under 3 hours each way).

Sometimes, the best things are the ones closest to home—read on to discover four winter road trips you can make in a day (or two)!

1. Mont Sutton, QC

1 hour 30 mins from Montreal (110 km)

Why you should visit: Just a ninety-minute drive from downtown Montreal, Mont Sutton is the nearest destination on this list. In less than two hours, you can find yourself skiing down the slopes of one of Québec's most trafficked ski slopes.

Ever heard of glade skiing? It's a form of alpine skiing that takes you along solitary trails through dense forests. Mont Sutton is famous for this type of skiing, and we think this might just be the best way to discover the beautiful woods of Québec!

How to get there: First, you'll cross the St. Lawrence River via the Samuel de Champlain bridge to get out of Montreal. Then, take the A10 past Chambly and across the Richelieu River; catch Exit 74 and in no time, you'll have reached your destination.

Our highlights: Mont Sutton is located on the largest private property dedicated to ecological conservation in the province of Québec.

This area is most well-known for its beautiful ski trails and slopes, so this is what we recommend you enjoy first. Whether you're a beginner or a slope aficionado, there are tons of different trails to choose from that accommodate your level!

If skiing isn't your thing, you can always cozy up in one of Mont Sutton's four chalet-style restaurants for a delicious dinner. Located right at the base of the mountain, these eateries are sure to serve up some comforting classics to warm you up.

Apart from being a wonderful winter sports destination, Mont Sutton also loves to support and promote local Canadian artists through a collection of art installations and sculptures installed directly on the mountain's slopes. We think there's nothing cooler than taking in high art while strapped to some skis.

Our travel tips: If you're thinking about heading to Mont Sutton for skiing purposes, make sure to check their website as well as local advisories to see what sort of weather and snow quality awaits you on the slopes.

2. Mont Tremblant Resort, QC

1 hour 40 mins from Montreal (130 km)

Why you should visit: Whether you're new to Québec or a local, you've probably heard of Mont Tremblant before. Tucked in the Laurentian Mountains, Mont Tremblant is unlike any other ski resort in Québec, boasting unmatched luxury and a wide range of activities.

The great thing about Mont Tremblant is that it's not just for winter sports fans. Don't get us wrong – if you're looking for a luxury ski experience, there's no better place than this world-class ski resort.

Tremblant also has lots of other experiences to offer, including luxury spas and the opportunity to explore the gorgeous Mont Tremblant Village.

How to get there: Tremblant is really close to Montreal. Simply take Autoroute 15 N through Laval and across the Prairies River, and then merge onto Autoroute 40 E via exit 70E. Within an hour, you'll have reached this stunning destination.

Our highlights: The first thing you'll see when you step foot on Mont Tremblant is its snowy village, which was inspired by the ski villages of Europe and which is sure to set you in the holiday mood. Go on a shopping spree or grab a bite at one of the village's highly-rated restaurants.

If you're looking to relax and indulge in some spa treatments, there's no better place than Mont Tremblant. You can either check out the offerings at one of the village's many luxury hotels, or visit a facility exclusively dedicated to pampering you, such as the Scandinave Spa Mont Tremblant.

Obviously, one of the best things to do when visiting this snowy paradise is to strap on some skis (or a snowboard) and try your hand at Mont Tremblant's celebrate slopes. Don't let a lack of experience dissuade you from experiencing these winter sports; there are tons of trail options for all levels of skiing, and if you're feeling a little rusty, you can always take a refresher class right on the slopes.

One delicacy to try in Mont Tremblant is “Tire sur la neige” (trans: pull on the snow). This sticky candy is made by pouring hot maple syrup on cold snow and letting it cool just enough to roll it onto a stick, at which point it's ready to enjoy.

Bonus: Curious about the origin of the name “Mont Tremblant”? Tremblant is French for “trembling”, and the mountain was so named because of an Indigenous belief that it was inhabited by a deity that would tremble when upset.

Our travel tips: Mont Tremblant is such a popular winter destination that we really suggest you book accommodations well in advance to avoid any disappointment.

While some of the other ski resorts on this list might be able to accommodate last-minute vacationers, Mont Tremblant's popularity makes it very difficult to book a last-minute room or suite.

If you enjoyed your time visiting Tremblant, you could always return in the summer, fall or spring as this beautiful resort operates year-round.

3. Ottawa and Parc Omega, ON (via Sucrérie de la Montagne)

2 hours from Montreal (200 km)

Why you should visit: This road trip offers two things that no other road trip on this list does: the first is a stop at the Sucrérie de la Montagne, where you can learn how Canada's famous maple syrup gets produced. And the second is an opportunity to skate along Ottawa's famous Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Known as the Festival Capital of Canada, there are few cities as picturesque in the winter as Ottawa, whose Parliament Buildings light up in celebration of the winter holidays.

If you're an animal lover, then there's no better experience than a visit to Parc Omega, which allows you to meet and feed local animals from the comfort of your car.

How to get there: Getting to Ottawa from Montreal is a breeze. Take the Trans-Canada Highway out of the city, then take exit 17 to stop at the Sucrérie de la Montagne. Once you've had your fill of maple treats, get back on the Trans-Canada Highway and follow it all the way to Ottawa.

Our highlights: Taking place during the first three weekends of February, Winterlude is one of Canada's most famous winter festivals that boasts tons of activities including live ice sculpting, a gigantic snow playground called Snowflake Kingdom, and much more.

One of Ottawa's most unique offerings is the Rideau Canal, which freezes over during the coldest weeks of winter and is then opened to the public for ice skating activities.

You can also simply walk along this frozen UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is dotted with shacks where you can enjoy hot chocolate or poutine, Canada's most famous dish.

Take a walk through the Byward Market and indulge in a Beaver Tail, a flat fried dough (like a donut) on which you can add a variety of sweet toppings including Nutella and cinnamon sugar. Once you've had your sugar fill, you can shop in the market's many adorable stores boasting artisan goods.

Bonus: Ottawa is uniquely situated on the provincial border of Québec and Ontario; this location was chosen by Queen Victoria in 1867, who felt the halfway point between Toronto and Montreal would be an ideal location for trading and business and therefore the ideal choice for Canada's capital city.

Our travel tips: If you're thinking about visiting Parc Omega while in Ottawa, keep in mind that the average visit takes about 3 hours. This is the ideal time to enjoy the company of the many native animals housed in this park.

It's only possible to skate on the Rideau Canal once it freezes enough to ensure visitors' safety. This typically occurs in late January or early February, however, the best way to ensure that the Canal is open is by checking the city of Ottawa's website.

4. North Hatley and Parc National du Mont Mégantic, QC

2 hours 30 minutes from Montreal (230 km)

Why you should visit: This road trip has the best of both worlds: a visit to a Canadian National Park (the only one on this list) as well as a picturesque Eastern Township. Perfect for those looking to get to know outdoor Québec as well as the signature small towns that this region is famous for.

Charm and serenity are what await you on this road trip. Expect small town coziness, quaint boutiques, and historic sites in North Hatley, which is known as one of the most beautiful small towns of Québec. And in Parc National du Mégantic, you'll have ample opportunities to discover the snow-laden forests of Québec, which you'll be able to explore in a variety of ways.

How to get there: Located just south of the town of Sherbrooke, QC, North Hatley is quite easy to get to from Montreal. Cross the St Lawrence River via the Samuel de Champlain bridge to exit the city, then take Québec Autoroute 10 past Chambly and across the Richelieu River. You'll then take exit 29 and continue along Autoroute 55 S until you reach North Hatley, right on the shores of Lac Massawippi. The National Park is just 30 minutes of this small town, close to the US-Canada border.

Our highlights: North Hatley is filled with cute and accessible activities that are sure to make your experience incredibly memorable. For example, you could visit L'Auberge La Chocolaterie, a 19th-century icehouse that has since been converted into an inn and boutique, offering local sweets as well as scrumptious gourmet eats.

If you're feeling daring (or partial to an equestrian experience) then we suggest you trot on over to the Jacques Robidas Equestrian Center. There, you'll have the chance to take a quick horseback riding lesson before exploring North Hatley's snow landscapes entirely on horseback.

Once you've had your fill with this adorable town, you can make your way to Parc National du Mégantic, where you can explore it's beautiful snowy landscapes in a variety of ways. With over 13 kilometres of cross-country skiing trails and 23 kilometres of snowshoeing trails, you'll definitely have the opportunity to get your cardio in.

One experience we really recommend you enjoy is night snowshoeing at the National Park. This awesome experience allows you to explore a relatively manageable trail (1.2 kilometres) at night and under the light of torches, spread throughout the park.

Bonus: Did you know North Hatley has always been a gathering place for those looking to escape into nature? In fact, the town has been a favourite resort destination since the end of the 19th century when wealthy Americans from the Southern United States would visit in the summer.

Our travel tips: If you're looking to snowshoe and don't have your own pair, make sure to book your rentals at least twenty-four hours in advance through the park website. Also, make sure to check whether the trains in Mont Mégantic are open for visitors as some trails are only available to enjoy later in the winter.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Weekend trips (3-5 hours each way)

Have a free weekend and looking for an escape? Choose from one of the trips below to make the most of a few days by exploring some nearby treasures.

5. Québec City, QC (via Trois-Rivières)

3 hours from Montreal (270 km)

Why you should visit: This road trip is the perfect opportunity to discover French Canada's rich and storied past. Start at the second oldest French-speaking city in North America, beautiful Trois-Rivières, before continuing on to the oldest Francophone city on the continent: historic Québec City.

There are few cities in Canada that are as beautiful in the winter as Québec City. This architectural gem is picturesque when covered in a thin (or sometimes, thick) layer of fluffy snow; additionally, Québec, which boasts a world-famous Christmas Market as well as tons of festivals that are sure to cheer you up during the colder months.

How to get there: Exit Montreal using Autoroute 40 E, which you can follow until Exit 199 which takes you to Trois Rivières. Once you've finished visiting this historic town, get back on Autoroute 40E which will take you all the way to Québec City.

Our highlights: Trois-Rivières is full of historical gems and has recently invested a lot of funds into making this history accessible to tourists and locals alike. We recommend a stroll through this city's historic district before visiting Trois-Riviere's iconic monastery, as well as the adjoining Musee des Ursulines (Museum of the Nuns).

Once you're in Québec City, make sure to visit their stunning German Christmas Market, which runs from late November until December 23 and which was conceptualized to resemble as much as possible the European equivalents. There, you'll have the opportunity enjoy stunning decorations, delicious German treats, and some Christmas shopping.

If you're visiting between January and March, then check out the Québec Ice Hotel. This attraction is unlike anything else in Canada and is comprised of a hotel built entirely out of ice. You can either enjoy the hotel as a visitor or splurge to stay in one of this hotel's icy rooms.

Also taking place in the later winter months is the world-famous Québec Winter Carnival, the largest carnival of its kind in the world. Expect ice slides and mazes, parades, snow cultures, and delicious food.

Finally, there are few cultures that know how to do winter comfort food as well as the Québecois; make sure to try Québec's signature winter dishes, including Poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds), Tourtière (meat pie) and Pudding Chômeur (loosely translating to "pudding of the unemployed", this sticky treat is made up of a cake drowned in a warm maple syrup).

Bonus: There's no way to miss the majestic Fairmont Chateau Frontenac Hotel, a fully functioning hotel and historic site that holds the Guinness World Record for the most photographed hotel in the world.

Our travel tips: Make sure to check snow levels and weather before making the trek to Québec City. While the city generally receives tons of snow during the winter season, some activities require that temperatures fall below a certain threshold before they can open (i.e. outdoor skating, the Québec Ice Hotel)

It is essential to dress very warmly for the weather in this region, which often dips below freezing. Expect lots of snow, and make sure to pack sunscreen as the sun reflecting against the white show can result in a bad sunburn.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Quebec City

6. Cote-de-Beaupré and the Laurentians, QC

4 hours from Montreal (350 km)

Why you should visit: Rather than aiming for one specific destination, this road trip takes you along the banks of the St Lawrence River on the New France Route where you'll have the opportunity to discover the collection of small towns that make up the Cote-de-Beaupré region.

This road trip takes you along one of Canada's oldest routes, the Route de la Nouvelle-France. Dating back over three hundred years, this road was once trafficked by farmers bringing their crops to Québec City.

As a result, there are tons of heritage structures scattered around this route, making this trip a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with Québec's religious history, as well as to discover the Laurentians, a defining characteristic of the province's natural landscape.

How to get there: Cross the St Lawrence River via the Samuel de Champlain bridge to exit Montreal; then, take the Trans-Canada highway before exiting on 312N to Autoroute 73 N toward Québec City.

Once past Québec City, continue along the banks of the St Lawrence River, where you'll find a collection of towns along the Nouvelle France Route that make up the Cote-de-Beaupré region.

Our highlights: One of the heritage sites you'll find along the New France Route is the Saint-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine, the oldest pilgrimage site in Canada and the first in North America. Every year, thousands of visitors from around the world flock to this shrine to pay their respects or say a prayer in honor of this saint.

This part of Québec is celebrated for its many art and cultural creators, so there's no better place to check out some unique and beautiful artworks. We recommend Atelier Paré, a museum and shop that is celebrated for its wood sculptures.

The Laurentians are certainly one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Canada; all along this route, you'll be able to see them from afar, but if you're looking to get better acquainted, make sure to check out some of the nearby mountains. Nearest to Beaupré is Mont-Saint-Anne, one of Canada's most popular skiing destinations.

If you're feeling adventurous, then make sure to check out Mont-Saint-Anne's winter sports offering. This ski resort happens to be the only place in North America where you can try your hand at ice canyoning, a thrilling sport that involves climbing frozen waterfalls, similar to the way you would climb a canyon.

Bonus: Cote-de-Beaupré is lovingly referred to by locals as "Québec's breadbasket", probably stemming from the many small towns that make up this region and which lead to Québec City. This nickname also refers to this region's deep agricultural routes.

Our travel tips: Just like for any Québec destination on this trip, it is essential to dress very warmly for the weather, which often dips below freezing. This is especially true if you plan to explore the nearby mountains, or if you're engaging in winter sports while travelling.

Cote-de-Beaupré is made up of a variety of towns along the Route de la Nouvelle France, meaning that you'll be stopping frequently along this short but attraction-filled route.

7. Saguenay and the Saguenay Fjord, QC

4 hours 50 minutes from Montreal (460 km)

Why you should visit: While lots of the trips on this list include visits to beautiful mountains and parks, none offer the opportunity to get acquainted with a body of water as majestic as the Saguenay Fjord, one of Canada's most breathtaking natural attractions.

The seventh largest city in Québec, Saguenay is a wonderful destination for a winter road trip. The city itself boasts tons of unique cultural attractions, while the nearby parks are great for winter sports and general exploration.

How to get there: Getting to Saguenay is relatively simple . Once out of Montreal, take the Trans-Canada Highway before exiting on 312N to Autoroute 73 N toward Québec City. Once past the city, follow the QC-175 N which should take you directly to Saguenay.

Our highlights: Saguenay derives its name from the Innu word “Saki-nip”, which roughly translates to “where the water flows out”. Measuring over 126km long and boasting rocky cliffs that are over 350 meters high, the Saguenay Fjord measures among the longest in the world.

The dark waters running through this body of water contrast beautifully with the snow and ice that accumulate along its shores; it's no wonder that the Saguenay Fjord was recently ranked by the Micheline Guide as one of the must-see attractions worldwide.

Scattered around this area, you'll find a variety of cozy and quaint Québecois towns that are sure to get you into the holiday mood. Our recommendations are the nearby municipalities of Petit-Saguenay, Riviere-Eternite, Ferland-et-Bouilleau and L'Anse-Saint-Jean (a member of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of Québec).

Nearby Lac Saint-Jean, which feeds into the Saguenay River, is known for its ice-fishing offerings. There's no better place than this lake to bundle up and experience this sport typical of the area.

The city of Saguenay lights up during the Christmas season, boasting a European-style Christmas Market. Featuring artisans, local products and delicious treats amongst a wooden house village, the Saguenay Christmas Market offers free admission and opens sometime in early December.

For the animal-lovers, we highly recommend checking out Adventuraid, a sanctuary and reserve that offers visitors the opportunity to interact and play with arctic wolves. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Our travel tips: While many cities and towns are equally French and English speaking, expect for the fact that there to be less English in Saguenay due its removed location from Anglophone Canada.

It is good to keep in mind that "Saguenay" can refer to both the city of Saguenay as well as the surrounding Saguenay region.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Saguenay Fjord National Park

Long weekend trips (5-8 hours each way)

These destinations are a little further from Montreal, offering the perfect opportunity to discover something new. Read on to discover three road trips we think you could manage in the space of 3-4 days.

8. Boston and Cape Cod, MA (via Stowe, VT)

6 hours 30 minutes from Montreal (610 km)

Why you should visit: If you're looking to cross international borders and get out of Canada but aren't looking to venture too deep into the United States, then this road trip to Boston and Cape Cod is the one for you.

Easily reachable by car from Montreal, Bostonian culture is unlike anything in Canada; furthermore, nothing beats a trip to beautiful Cape Cod, a summer favourite that's worth a winter visit.

One of the most historic cities in the entirety of the United States, Boston truly comes alive during the winter; discover the unique experience of visiting these two cities when the crowds dissipate, and locals come out in droves for indoor and outdoor winter activities.

How to get there: Take the Samuel de Champlain bridge out of Montreal, continuing south along Autoroute 35 S until you reach Québec's border with Vermont. Once you've entered the States, continue along I-89 S through New Hampshire until you enter Massachusetts, where you'll find historic Boston and beachy Cape Cod.

Our highlights: There's nothing quite like the combination of history and the wintertime when cozy historic buildings are covered with twinkling lights guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit. Take a walk and explore Boston's snow-dusted historic district, truly at it's best during the colder months.

Looking for some outdoor fun? We suggest ice skating on the Boston Common Frog Pond or sledding at Flagstaff Hill, wintertime favourite activities for Bostonians.

The Taza Chocolate Factory, located in the nearby Sommerville, is certainly worth a visit. Here you'll be able to indulge in a variety of chocolates, which are all produced using this factory's famous stone-ground method.

Cape Cod's signature lighthouses may be at their most picturesque in the winter, when they get covered in a light layer of snow. Make sure to check these out—many offer tours or the opportunity to climb up and view the Bay from up high.

Or, take part in the Christmas Stroll, a winter festival in Chatham (near Cape Cod) which boasts a tree lighting ceremony and horse-drawn carriage rides

Bonus: Boston is a city of firsts; it's home to America's first subway system, the country's first chocolate factory, and the first ever Dunkin' Donuts.

Our travel tips: Boston's proximity to the water means that while it can get quite snowy, it typically won't get terribly cold (especially in the earlier winter months). It's essential to dress warmly for this weather, and to wear sunscreen when going outside.

Cape Cod's main tourism season is the summer, so expect some attractions to be closed if visiting in winter.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Boston

9. New York City, NY (via Stockbridge, MA)

Why you should visit: Visit the Big Apple in the wintertime to discover this beautiful metropolis in a whole new way. There's nothing quite like New York City during the holidays, when the city's most famous attractions get covered with glittering lights and Christmas decorations, and holiday entertainment abounds.

How to get there: Take the Honoré Mercier Bridge over the St Lawrence River and out of Montreal. Then, follow Autoroute 15 all the way to the US-Canada border; once in New York State, take the I-87 straight to New York City. If you're looking to stop in Stockbridge (we definitely recommend it!) then you'll want to take exit B3 from the I-90 E.

Our highlights: Nothing says "Christmas" like the massive Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, which is installed and lit towards the end of November (sometime after Thanksgiving) and taken down during the first week of January. Fun fact: the tallest Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree on record was mounted in 1999, towering over 100 ft and decorated by over 25,000 Christmas lights.

If you're looking for the wildest way to countdown the New Year, look no further than the Times Square Ball Drop, which brings in hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. While you can catch this ceremony on your TV, there's nothing quite like experiencing it in person.

New York City is one of North America's premiere entertainment destinations, and this is no less true than during the holiday season, when you can enjoy some truly amazing performances. Classics include the world-renowned Radio City Rockettes in their Christmas Spectacular, or Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Ballet at the Lincoln Center.

On your way to New York, you can stop in Stockbridge where you can get a taste of small-town New England before driving into the big city. Stockbridge is truly the quintessential New England town, coming alive during the winter months; expect picturesque village views and lots of opportunities for outdoor winter sports.

Bonus: There's no shortage of holiday movies that take place in New York. Some of our favourites include Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and It's a Wonderful Life.

Our travel tips: Winter in New York City tends to be on the wetter and snowier side—make sure to pack plenty of layers and waterproof clothing.

Crowds in New York are steady year-round, so make sure to book accommodations and attractions early if possible. If you'd like to learn more about the best areas to stay in NYC before you plan your trip, you can find our detailed area-by-area guide here .

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to New York

10. Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, ME

6 hours 40 minutes from Montreal (540 km)

Why you should visit: Wintertime may be the best time to visit National Parks in the US and Canada, as crowds tend to significantly dwindle, allowing you to enjoy these picturesque natural attractions completely solo.

Bar Harbor is a popular vacation spot that we believe also makes a wonderful winter destination, especially given that most of the same attractions you'll find in the summer are available during the colder months and Acadia National Park is especially beautiful during the colder months.

How to get there: Taking the Samuel de Champlain Bridge, cross the St Lawrence River and exit the city of Montreal. Then, taking the A-10 Towards Sherbrooke, traverse the US-Canada border into Maine. Cross through Maine using the ME-27 S and I-95 N, after which you can follow the ME-3 E to Bar Harbor. Acadia National Park is just a short drive from there.

Our highlights: We really can't think of a better way of discovering New England's winter nature offerings than by cross-country ski and snowshoe. Gear up and enjoy the nearly 45 miles of carriage roads and unplowed park roads at Acadia National Park.

If braving mountains of snow isn't your thing, we suggest renting some skates in downtown Bar Harbor before enjoying a picturesque skating trip on Eagle Lake or Jordan Pond, also located in Acadia National Park.

Get into the holiday spirit with a visit to Village Green, Bar Harbor's central square and home to the town's Christmas Tree, annually lit by Santa Claus who rides in on a firetruck and leads the onlookers a Christmas story.

This little town offers tons of additional Christmas activities, including a Gingerbread House Contest and a “Midnight Madness Sale” when local stores offer deep Christmas discounts.

Enjoy the soothing sounds of the Atlantic Ocean's rolling waves on a walk along the Bar Harbor Shore Path, arguably at its most beautiful in the wintertime.

Bonus: Did you know that Acadia National Park offers the highest view on the United States East Coast?

Our travel tips: While there are many Bar Harbor attractions that stay open during the winter months, some hotels and restaurants will close during the off-season.

Most closures occur at chain hotels and restaurants, while locals will typically keep their businesses open for savvy travelers visiting in the wintertime.

If choosing to explore Acadia National Park, dress warmly and in waterproof and snow-proof layers. Also, if you are visiting Acadia National Park and plan to drive on the Cadillac Summit Road, keep in mind that vehicle reservations might be required. Please check the national park's website to avoid any disappointment.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Acadia National Park

11. Niagara Falls, ON (via Toronto)

6 hours 50 minutes from Montreal (670 km)

Why you should visit: This road trip takes you through Canada's largest city, Toronto, before visiting the country's most recognizable natural wonder, Niagara Falls. It's the perfect combination of big-city winter vibes and heart-stopping nature experiences.

Discover Canada's largest free and vehicle-friendly outdoor light festival, the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights, at Canada's premiere natural wonder, Niagara Falls. This is just one of many festivals that make Toronto and Niagara Falls wonderful winter road trip destinations.

How to get there: Take Autoroute 20 O out of Montreal, which will turn into Highway 401 once you cross the Québec-Ontario provincial border. Follow the 401 all the way to Toronto, about 530 kilometres; once you've enjoyed this city's many offerings, you can exit via the Gardiner Expressway West before taking Queen Elizabeth Way to Niagara Falls.

Our highlights: One of the quintessential Toronto winter activities is skating at Nathan Philips Square, right outside of Toronto's massive City Hall. Nearby you'll also find the “TORONTO” sign, perfect for a photo-op; once you've had your fill of skating, head on over to Toronto's famous Eaton Center where you can enjoy some holiday shopping.

Visiting in the later winter months? Catch the Winterlicious Festival, Toronto's premier prix-fixe food event that offers deep discounts at some of the city's most fabulous dining spots. Make sure to book reservations at participating restaurants in advance, as this festival is very popular amongst visitors and locals alike.

Look no further than the Christmas Market in the historic Distillery District for Toronto's premiere holiday market. Complete with tons of boutiques and stands selling holiday goodies, you can also catch a theatre performance at the Young Centre for Performing Arts.

Visit Niagara-on-the-Lake, right by Niagara Falls, to discover an adorable winter-wonderland village complete with a store entirely dedicated to selling Christmas décor.

We think that Niagara Falls may be at its most beautiful in the winter, when parts of the falls freeze over, creating a layer of crystalline ice over the majestic falls.

Bonus: Did you know that Niagara Falls actually consist of a collection of three falls? There are the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls, both entirely belonging to the United States, as well as the largest and most recognizable Horseshoe Falls, shared between Canada and the US.

Our travel tips: Toronto's quietest season is winter, so expect smaller crowds than in the summer and the possibility of more affordable accommodations

There are two sides to Niagara Falls, the American and Canadian sides. If possible, visit both to get the full Niagara Falls experience.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Niagara Falls

12. Cap-Chat, QC (via Québec City)

7 hours 20 minutes from Montreal (740 km)

Why you should visit: Cap-Chat is probably the most secluded out of all the destinations on this list, located all the way near the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Eastern Canada. If you're looking for quiet and beautiful natural landscapes, this trip is for you.

Cap-Chat is a truly unique vacation destination, boasting the world's largest vertical-axis wind turbine as well as tons of opportunities to enjoy outdoor winter sports in the area's wooded winter landscapes.

How to get there: Exit Montreal via the Samuel de Champlain Bridge before continuing along the Trans-Canada Highway all the way to Québec City. Once you've finished exploring this winter favourite, get back on the Trans-Canada Highway until it meets Autoroute 20.

Continue along Autoroute 20, which will meet QC-132 E and which you can follow to Cap-Chat

Our highlights: While passing through Québec City, make sure to stop at the German Christmas Market, taking place every December. If visiting in January, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Québec Ice Hotel, one of the city's most unique winter offerings.

Finally, taking place in February is the world-famous Québec Winter Carnival, the largest carnival of its kind in the world.

Winter brings abundant snow to this small town in Gaspésie, which is celebrated for its magnificent slopes. Check out the Centre de plein air de Cap-Chat, where you can enjoy a variety of winter sports including skiing, snowshoeing, tobogganing and more.

Our travel tips: Cap-Chat is quite small and secluded, with a population of just over 6,000 people. Expect a small-town vibe and fewer crowds, allowing you to take the festive vibe in without worrying about high prices that are usually associated with the holiday season.

If looking to enjoy winter sports, make sure to check the weather prior to arrival and to dress appropriately in warm and waterproof layers

Longer trips (over 8 hours each way)

Sometimes, a short escape just isn't enough. We think these next three road trips are the perfect place to visit if you're looking for a longer winter vacation.

13. Frankenmuth, Saginaw and Bay City, MI

9 hours and 40 minutes from Montreal (1,000 km)

Why you should visit: Often looked over during the wintertime, the Great Lakes Bay Region is a wonderful road-trip destination any time of year. We love that this route takes you to two of the five great lakes: Lake Huron and Lake Ontario.

The jewel of the Great Lakes Bay Region is Frankenmuth, an idyllic Bavarian-style town that hosts Zehnder's Snowfest, one of the top snow and ice sculpting events in all of North America. If you'd like to experience that European Christmas vibe without breaking the bank, this road trip is for you.

How to get there: Take Autoroute 20 O out of Montreal—this highway will turn into the 401 once you cross the Québec-Ontario provincial border. Follow the 401 all the way past Toronto, until you can merge onto the 402.

The 402 will then take you to the Canada-US international border in Sarnia, after which you can take the I-69 W to Frankenmuth. From Frankenmuth, the surrounding Great Bay Region cities are all nearby.

Our highlights: Get ready for jaw-dropping ice sculptures at Zehnder's Snowfest, one of the major draws for this area during the winter season. This festival usually takes place during the last week of January, at which point ice and snow sculptors from around the country flock to present their beautifully detailed and larger-than-life artworks to an eager public.

Check out Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store which celebrates this holiday year-round. We're sure you've never seen anything like this Christmas-lovers dream, boasting over 50,000 tree decorations to choose from as well as tons of holiday gifts.

Frankenmuth is most photo-worthy during the winter, when its Bavarian-style buildings get covered with a nice layer of crisp white snow. We think the best way to discover this town center is via an old-fashioned carriage ride, available at a reasonable rate.

For those looking to get a little active on their trip, we recommend gearing up and going on a snowshoe walk or a cross-country ski trip through the nearby forests of Michigan. Or, you can experience ice fishing at Saginaw Bay, beginning in mid-January.

Bonus: Frankenmuth was settled in 1845 by a small group of German Lutheran immigrants; this is where the town got its nickname of “Little Bavaria”.

Our travel tips: Out of all the towns in the Great Bay Region, Frankenmuth is the city most celebrated for its winter and holiday appeal, and this is where you'll probably find the most indoor holiday activities

Michigan is known for its freezing winters – make sure to dress warmly, with several layers and water-proof clothing.

14. Washington, DC (via New Hope, Bethlehem and Bernville, PA)

10 hours from Montreal (1,060 km)

Why you should visit: With a travel time of just over ten hours, this road trip takes you through various small towns in Pennsylvania before arriving at the US Capital, Washington, DC. There you'll find tons of museums and historical buildings but without their usual crowds.

With its many grand government buildings and historical monuments, Washington DC is positively picturesque during the snowy winter and holiday seasons. Along the way, you'll discover Bethlehem (a.k.a. Christmas City) as well as quaint Bernville and New Hope.

How to get there: Cross the St Lawrence River via the Samuel de Champlain Bridge to exit Montreal, then follow Autoroute 15 until you reach the US-Canada border, where you can get on the I-87.

Once on the I-87, continue past Albany before taking the I-287 S westbound. After stopping in Bernville, New Hope and Bethlehem, you can easily continue to Washington DC via the Baltimore-Washington Parkway.

Our highlights: Skate along the Washington Harbor Ice Rink in Georgetown, which features light-up snowflakes, and is open every day between November and March.

There's no better way to get into the holiday mood than by visiting the White House, where you can take in the National Christmas Tree as well as an additional fifty-plus trees, each representing one of the country's states.

You can also check out the Willard Intercontinental Holiday Display, known for its gingerbread house replica of the hotel and its gorgeously decorated lobby.

Washington DC is host to a wonderful Downtown Holiday Market, which boasts live performances and tons of stands featuring holiday goodies.

New Hope, Bethlehem, and Bernville are all individually celebrated as wonderful places to spend the winter/holiday season due to their picturesque centers and festival offerings. Bethlehem especially is known for its wonderful German-inspired Christmas Market, Christmas City Village.

Bonus: Bethlehem PA, founded in 1784 by a group of German Missionaries, is known as America's “Christmas City”.

Our travel tips: Remember that the Smithsonian Museum in Washington is free to visit.

Washington is slightly warmer than some other locations on this list, but still experiences cold winters. Make sure to pack accordingly, wearing warm layers (though you needn't necessarily worry about waterproof clothing unless you plan on enjoying winter sports).

15. Orlando, FL (via St. Augustine)

22 hours 40 minutes from Montreal (2,330 km)

Why you should visit: Every winter road trip list must have at least one option for a summer getaway, and this is our favourite by far! Take a drive down to Florida to discover coastal St. Augustine and exciting Orlando, where you can experience the iconic Walt Disney World Resort and the Universal Studios theme park during the holiday season.

Orlando is the perfect escape from a snowy Montreal winter, with its many themed amusement parks and sunny weather, as well as for its proximity to Atlantic and Gulf Coast beach towns.

How to get there: Exit Montreal and direct yourself towards Canada's border with New York State. Continue along several interstates through New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia until you reach Florida.

Just past Jacksonville you'll find St. Augustine, and from there you can easily continue to Orlando via the I-95.

Our highlights: While Orlando's theme parks, including Disney World and Universal, can be busy during the holiday season, they're markedly less busy in early-December, January, and February. Visiting during this time is a great way to see these famous attractions without worrying about massive crowds.

There's little more magical than Disney World during Christmas. In addition to its usual Christmas activities (i.e. the famous Disney Santa Parade), Disney's Magic Kingdom offers an after-hours Christmas event called Mickey's Verry Merry Christmas Party, featuring live singers and gingerbread cookie bars.

St. Augustine Beach is a highlight on this trip; one of the most beloved beaches on the east coast, this stunning spot is much less crowded in the winter. Take a stroll along the coast or grab a seat along the sandy beach and enjoy the sunset.

Make sure to visit ICE! at Gaylord Palms, a unique ice sculpture experience interactive exhibits and the opportunity to meet Santa.

Bonus: St Augustine is the oldest city in North America, having been established by Spanish settlers in 1565.

Our travel tips: Make sure to book tickets to theme parks well in advance. It's also possible to purchase fast passes to Disney and Universal, which helps if looking to avoid dealing with long lines.

Be sure to pack clothing for both cold and warm weather, given the disparity between the climates of Florida and Montreal.

Weather in Florida can be somewhat unpredictable; make sure to check before leaving to see what awaits you in the South.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

A Perfect Weekend in Montreal Is All About Historic Architecture and Modern Cuisine

A weekend is all you need to fall in love with this city’s historic neighborhoods, thriving art venues, and seriously good food..

• Copy Link copied

Montreal mixes North American modernity and old-school European charm with a one-of-a-kind French vibe.

Photo by Firefighter Montreal/Shutterstock

A trip to Montreal can be a little disorienting at first: Am I in Europe? Canada? Should I speak in French or English—or both? The short answer: Yes. Montreal feels like a little bit of everything, especially as you explore its distinctive neighborhoods.

A visit to Canada’s second-largest city is about living in the urban space, meeting the locals, and sharing a moment. Visit Old Montreal, where you can admire the city’s historic side with architecture dating back to its 1642 founding. Or spend some time in the bohemian Plateau Mont-Royal, which attracts young artists and students in part thanks to nearby McGill University .

And Montreal is also about eating. With one of the highest number of restaurants per capita in North America, the city has in recent decades moved away from classic French and Italian fare to let its creative spirits soar. Most chefs are happy to champion local farmers and products on their menus, allowing for a taste of the entire province, land to sea. (Though you’d be remiss if you didn’t try the smoked meats.) Independent bakeries, cafés, specialized food boutiques, and restaurants thrive in every neighborhood—you’ll want to pack your stretchy pants.

Where to stay in Montreal

Hotel Le Germain’s colorful facade stands out among the skyscrapers that surround it.

Courtesy of Hotel Le Germain

Hôtel Le Germain

Book now: Hôtel Le Germain

Inspired by the 1960s midcentury-modern aesthetic, Hôtel Le Germain’s 2019 renovations transformed this downtown property into an elegant space with outstanding service. Visitors are welcomed to the 100-room hotel by the rainbow-hued facade created by artist Michelle Hoogveld as part of the Mural festival, a yearly summer event that champions urban art. The rooms give prime views of Mount Royal or the skyscrapers along the street and, depending on the room, accents range from round beds to hanging bubble chairs.

Fairmont Le Queen Elizabeth

Old World charm and modern amenities reign at this grand downtown hotel that’s been welcoming royalty and celebrities since 1958. Suite 1742 is where John Lennon and Yoko Ono staged a famous weeklong bed-in. The hotel underwent a renovation in 2017; the result is a new Fairmont Or (Gold) hotel-within-a-hotel, with a dedicated 21st-floor lounge for guests and separate concierge services, and rooms (there are 950) with modernist details like geometric-patterned floors and bold, retro colors. The hotel also has a Cirque Eloize cabaret show that’s a wild affair.

Hôtel Gault

On a quiet, cobblestone street in Old Montreal, this historic 19th-century building is adorned with intricate molding and cast-iron columns in stark contrast to the 30 minimalist-style lofts and suites it houses, with memorable views of the city.

With only 10 rooms and suites, É pik preserves architectural details that date back to the 1700s, such as wooden beams and stone walls, offset by slick modern design elements like LED lights and rain showers. The Old Montreal hotel is close to sites like the Notre-Dame Basilica, eclectic shops, and plenty of restaurants, so you won’t have to travel far to experience the city’s vibrant offerings.

Where to eat and drink in Montreal

Larrys is one of many restaurants vying for your brunch reservation.

Photo by Rachel Cheng

Unsurprisingly, Montreal offers enough food and drink options from dawn to dusk to keep you busy for weeks.

Where to go for brunch

Montrealers love brunch, and the city has many outstanding options. Old Montreal’s Olive et Gourmando is an absolute must for its flaky pastries and “Egg on your face” breakfast sandwich. For a more British take, Larrys is the place to go. Don’t skip the scones! Other excellent brunch choices include modern Lebanese cuisine at Shay , deli classics (and the best pancakes) at Arthurs , and French brasserie dishes at Leméac . For a classic Montreal-style brunch, make your way to Beautys . The deli has been serving Montreal bagels and lox platters since 1942.

Where to go for lunch

For lunch, you’ll have to indulge in some of Montreal’s most iconic foods: piping hot bagels (sweeter, crunchier, and dare I say, better than NYC bagels), poutine, or a mile-high smoked meat sandwich. These Montreal specialties are the best of their kind.

For a sweet snack, try Hof Kelsten ’s chocolate babka or Pâtisserie Rhubarbe ’s lemon tart.

Where to go for dinner

If you’re in town for a few days, head to Candide , a restaurant inside the presbytery of a converted church, for regional cuisine. You’re almost guaranteed to try some unique ingredients from Quebec’s wild terroir. Its wine list is one of the best in town. If the weather is nice, try to snag a table on the lovely terrace located on a quiet alley. Otherwise, the bar with a view of the kitchen action is the best seat.

For for fine French cuisine, La Chronique and its light-filled dining room is a top place to spend an evening. Its foie gras specialties and service are always irreproachable.

Vin Mon Lapin is a neighborhood restaurant in Little Italy with an attractive dining room, a fun and knowledgeable staff, an outstanding collection of bottles (some of which you won’t find anywhere else), and the best inventive and seasonal food served in small dishes to share. It’s a must.

Things to do in Montreal

Old Montreal is a small piece of Europe on this side of the Atlantic.

Photo by ProDesign studio

Explore Old Montreal

With its cobblestone pathways and centuries-old buildings, Old Montreal arguably has some of the most European streets this side of the Eiffel Tower. Locals and tourists alike wander its charming narrow streets to enjoy some of the city’s major attractions. Charismatic Saint-Paul Street, Montreal’s former main artery, is flanked by historic 19th-century buildings now housing art galleries, kitschy tourist stores, and glam restaurants.

One of Old Montreal’s main landmarks is the Notre-Dame Basilica, built in the Gothic revival style between 1824 and 1829 (the bell towers were finished in 1843). Get tickets for Aura , an immersive sound-and-light show that emphasizes the intricately carved wood details and stained-glass windows of the basilica. For other memorable experiences, head to PHI Centre , a multidisciplinary art gallery featuring immersive exhibits using virtual reality.

You can enjoy scenic views of Old Montreal and the river from several spots, including the Grande Roue de Montréal Ferris wheel, the iconic Clock Tower that hovers over Old Montreal’s beach, or the spectacular 300-year-old Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel.

For a relaxing afternoon, book a massage at Bota Bota , an award-winning floating thermal spa housed inside a repurposed ferryboat with views of the famous Habitat 67.

Read more about Bota Bota .

Go downtown

From Old Montreal, it’s a short walk through Chinatown to Quartier des Spectacles, an area of downtown Montreal that is the city’s “cultural heart.” Some of Montreal’s most prominent festivals take place here, especially during the summer, when you might catch a Montreal Jazz Festival concert, a Just for Laughs show, or one of many free outdoor activities.

Head west on Saint-Catherine Street toward McGill Avenue and beyond for some world-class shopping above and below ground in Montreal’s underground city. The pedestrian network that connects shopping malls, metro stations, and dozens of downtown buildings runs for 20 miles under the city center and is a good way to enjoy a day out away from Mother Nature’s tantrums.

Check out Mile-End

The Mile-End has the well-earned reputation of being Montreal’s hippest neighborhood; its vibrant art and music scene is the home of many independent music shops, boutiques, and bookstores. Mimic the locals by perusing the piles of books at Drawn & Quarterly then heading to Café Olimpico for a latte and people-watching on its terrace.

Hike or drive up the Mount Royal Park to Beaver Lake for a panoramic view of the city. If you happen to be in the area on a Sunday, head to the George-Étienne Cartier Monument and les tam-tams du Mont Royal , where you can find a spontaneous gathering of drummers and percussionists—the epitome of Montreal’s quirkiness.

The Jean-Talon Market is a must-visit while in Montreal.

Tourisme Montréal

Stop by Little Italy

From Mile-End it’s a short walk to Little Italy. Stop by an Italian café before heading to Jean-Talon Market , one of North America’s largest open-air farmers’ markets and a good place to eat lunch and stock up on edible souvenirs (like Quebec maple syrup).

Read more about Jean-Talon Market.

Visit Space for Life

Space for Life is Canada’s largest science museum complex and combines several experiences under one roof—or rather, in the same vicinity. You can stare up at the stars at the cutting-edge planetarium, meet the smallest creatures at the insectarium, observe animals in the immersive ecosystems of the biodome, or stroll around the botanical gardens. Montreal’s famous Olympic Stadium, home of the 1976 Olympics, is nearby.

Bike the city

Montreal has over 430 miles of bike paths and has been named one of the most bike-friendly cities in North America. Rent a bike or grab a BIXI (short-term rental) and ride along the Lachine Canal or around the Parc Jean Drapeau for two scenic routes.

Visit Strøm Spa

East of Montreal, on the Ile de Soeurs (Nuns’ island), is a sprawling, Nordic-style day spa called Strøm Spa . On site, guests can enjoy a steam bath or a dry sauna overlooking the nearby woods or lounge on an outdoor patio by the river. However, the main attraction is the property’s multiple outdoor thermal baths and full menu of spa services like massages, facials, and manicures.

It also has a restaurant featuring healthy, Nordic-inspired dishes like a mushroom smørrebrød (open-faced sandwich) and fish and seafood soup. Thanks to all of the options, you easily can (and should!) spend half a day here.

Although the peaceful property is worth a visit at any time of the year, it’s especially appealing during the winter, when cold winds and snow make other outdoor activities less accessible or pleasant.

This article originally appeared online in 2020; it was most recently updated on October 9, 2023, to include current information.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

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.

Chris Jongkind/Getty Images

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).

Patrick Donovan/Getty Images

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.