From Montreal: Quebec City & Montmorency Falls Full Day Trip

Travelers planning a day trip from Montreal to Quebec City often seek a mix of natural beauty, historic charm, and cultural richness. This full-day tour, offered by CONCORD TOURS & TRAVEL, promises just that. With a duration of about 13 hours, it covers iconic sights like Montmorency Falls, Old Quebec, and the Saint Lawrence River, all while providing the comfort of roundtrip transportation. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or sightseeing enthusiast, this trip aims to cater to a variety of interests without breaking the bank.

Three things we particularly love about this experience are the guided exploration of Old Quebec, which offers insightful commentary and local stories; the stunning views of Montmorency Falls, taller than Niagara, which provide incredible photo opportunities; and the flexibility of seasonal activities—from river cruises in summer to ice hotel visits in winter.

A possible drawback is the tight schedule at Montmorency Falls, where reviewers mention feeling rushed, especially during peak times. Still, if you’re looking for a comprehensive glimpse of Quebec in a single day, this tour hits many highlights efficiently.

This experience works well for anyone eager to combine natural scenery with cultural sights, especially those who value guided commentary, good value, and a hassle-free itinerary.

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary includes natural wonders, historic streets, and optional seasonal activities.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with engaging, multilingual commentary.
• Comfortable transportation with roundtrip from Montreal simplifies logistics.
• Affordable price point offers great value for a full-day adventure.
• Flexible seasonal options like river cruises, ice hotel visits, or museum stops.
• Time management can sometimes be tight, especially at Montmorency Falls.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Montmorency Falls: A Spectacular Start

The tour kicks off early in the morning with a visit to Montmorency Falls, which towers 30 meters taller than Niagara. The falls are truly a sight to behold, and the experience is enhanced by the option to walk across a suspension bridge — a highlight for many. The roar of cascading water is impressive, and the panoramic views from the top are worth the ascent. If you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll get some fantastic photos.

One reviewer, Nelli, appreciated the stop, mentioning that the “garden around Montmorency was lovely,” though some wished for more time. The included entry fee makes this a great value, but note that the cable car is not included, which might be tempting for those wanting an easier ascent.

Old Quebec: Stepping Back in Time

Next, you’ll enjoy a guided 1-hour walking tour through Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guide will lead you through cobbled streets, pointing out centuries-old buildings, charming boutiques, and historic landmarks like Château Frontenac and Dufferin Terrace. Expect to hear fascinating stories about the city’s past, which makes wandering its streets even more engaging.

Several reviews, such as Jim’s, highlight the organized and informative nature of the city tour, with guides like William and Joyce being praised for their knowledge and friendly manner. Nicolae even points out that Yang, the long-time guide, kept the group entertained with entertaining facts.

Seasonal Highlights and Optional Experiences

Depending on when you visit, the tour offers different activities:

• Summer (June to October): A Croisières AML cruise on the Saint Lawrence River. Reviewers who took the cruise enjoyed the relaxed pace and stunning views of Quebec’s skyline from the water, making it a peaceful contrast to busy sightseeing.
• Winter (December to March): The chance to explore the Ice hotel, with its icy sculptures and cozy atmosphere. Reviewers like Stella mention the “wonderful experience” of visiting the ice hotel, especially with the proper gear like gloves and foot warmers.
• Autumn (October to December): Visiting The Museum of Civilization Québec, which offers interactive exhibits and insights into local culture.

While these activities are optional, they significantly enrich the trip, transforming it into a seasonal showcase of Quebec’s diverse attractions.

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Additional Highlights and Flexibility

The tour’s versatility is demonstrated by reviews noting they appreciated the ample free time at each stop to explore at their own pace. For example, Leo from Canada mentions how the tour’s comfortable timing allowed for a relaxed visit to Old Quebec, with enough time for lunch and photos.

Some reviewers, such as Sheryl, expressed a desire for more time at Montmorency Falls, feeling the scheduled 1 hour was tight for everything they wanted to do — like taking photos and exploring viewpoints. This underscores the importance of managing expectations around timing, especially during busy seasons.

Transportation and Practicalities

The roundtrip transportation from Montreal is streamlined, with pick-up options within 5 km of downtown for hotel guests, though this is an extra cost. The bus itself is praised for being punctual, with drivers like John earning praise for safe, smooth rides even in challenging weather conditions.

The small group size, guided commentary in multiple languages, and the ease of booking make this a convenient option. The tour duration of 13 hours means you’ll need to prepare for a long day, but the included stops and organized schedule help keep it manageable.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Real travelers highlight the professionalism of guides like William, Joyce, and Angela, calling them “super organized,” “friendly,” and “knowing.” Multiple reviews praise the delicious buffet lunch as a highlight, offering a chance to enjoy local flavors mid-day.

Others mention the value for money, especially considering that entry fees, guided tours, and scenic experiences are bundled into the price of $71 per person. The mix of guided commentary, free time, and optional activities creates a flexible, engaging day that appeals to diverse interests.

A common theme among reviews is the overall smooth organization — from booking to the actual day — which makes the experience enjoyable and stress-free.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized trips that combine natural beauty with cultural sights, this tour is a winner. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want an efficient overview of Quebec City’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop.

Those seeking seasonal activities like river cruises or ice hotel visits will find this tour offers a convenient way to experience those unique attractions. If you enjoy guided walks with knowledgeable hosts and don’t mind a full day on the road, you’ll probably love the mix of sightseeing and relaxed exploration.

However, if you prefer more time at specific sites or dislike rushed stops, you might want to consider how the schedule aligns with your travel style.

The Sum Up

This full-day trip from Montreal to Quebec City and Montmorency Falls hits a great balance between natural wonders, historic streets, and seasonal highlights. The inclusion of guided walks and scenic cruises offers a well-rounded experience, all at an attractive price point. The tour’s professional guides and smooth logistics make it a reliable choice for those wanting a hassle-free day full of memorable sights.

The flexible activities based on seasonal timing mean you can tailor the experience to what interests you most, whether it’s a river cruise, ice hotel visit, or exploring museums. While the schedule can feel a little rushed at Montmorency Falls, most travelers find that the overall value and variety make up for it.

Ideal for first-time visitors to Quebec or those wanting to maximize a single day, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of what makes Quebec City so special — all in one manageable trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Montreal is included, with pickup options within 5 km of downtown for an extra fee. The bus is praised for being punctual and comfortable.

How long is the total tour?
The entire trip lasts about 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Can I customize the activities or do I have to stick with the scheduled stops?
The itinerary includes seasonal activities like river cruises, ice hotel visits, or museum stops, but these are optional. You’ll have some free time to explore at each site.

Is there an option for hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup within 5 km of downtown Montreal is available for an extra cost, with pickup details provided one day before.

What should I bring for Montmorency Falls?
Bring comfortable shoes, and if visiting in winter, wear gloves and foot warmers. The tour includes entry to Montmorency Falls, but the cable car is not included.

Are guided tours available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak both English and French, and some reviews mention guides fluent in multiple languages, making the trip accessible to international travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
While weather can impact outdoor activities, many travelers mention that guides adapt well, and the tour still offers plenty of indoor or sheltered experiences, like museums or the Ice hotel.

This tour promises a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich day that balances natural beauty with historic charm. Perfect for those who want to see Quebec’s highlights without the fuss of planning, and eager to enjoy a variety of unique seasonal experiences.

You can check if your dates are available here: