From Montreal: Quebec City & Montmorency Falls Full Day Trip

Travelers often look for a way to combine natural splendors with cultural treasures in a single day. This Montreal to Quebec City & Montmorency Falls tour offers just that—an opportunity to enjoy stunning landscapes, historic streets, and scenic cruises, all packed into approximately 13 hours. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone craving authentic Quebec charm, this trip aims to hit all the right notes.

What we love about this experience is its balanced itinerary — a mix of breathtaking natural wonders like Montmorency Falls, immersive walks through the UNESCO-listed Old Quebec, and optional boat cruises that showcase the area’s beauty from the water. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the long day feel engaging rather than exhausting. Plus, the value for the price—around $73—includes multiple stops, entry fees, and a comfortable roundtrip ride from Montreal.

However, a key consideration is the long drive—about three hours each way—which might be a stretch for some and could eat into your sightseeing time. Travelers with limited patience for long bus journeys may want to weigh this in. Still, for those who enjoy a full, varied day out, this tour offers an excellent way to see Quebec’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself.

This experience works best for history enthusiasts, nature fans, and first-timers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Quebec in one go. If you’re after a relaxed, leisurely day with plenty of photo ops and interesting stories, this trip should be on your list.

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary combining natural beauty and cultural sights
• Professional guides offer engaging commentary and helpful suggestions
• Good value for the price with included admission fees and roundtrip transport
• Long travel time might be tiring but is offset by the variety of stops
• Flexible free time in Old Quebec allows for personal exploration
• Multiple optional activities like river cruises and visits to the ice hotel, depending on season

What to Expect on the Tour

This full-day trip is designed to maximize your sightseeing while ensuring comfort and efficiency. It starts early at 7:00 am from Montreal, with a coach that’s generally praised for its cleanliness and amenities, including a restroom. The group sizes are capped at 50, which helps keep things intimate and manageable.

Montmorency Falls — A Natural Wonder

Your first stop is at Montmorency Falls, a highlight that often surprises visitors. Standing at 275 feet — taller than Niagara Falls — this waterfall is a jaw-dropper. You’ll spend about an hour here, and your ticket includes access to the falls area. The most popular vantage point is the suspension bridge over the falls, which offers a spectacular view, perfect for photos. Or, if you’re feeling energetic, you can enjoy the walk down to the base for the roaring cascade up close.

Reviewers frequently mention the stunning views and the helpful guides who suggest great photo spots. One guest noted, “The cruise was also amazing providing more breathtaking views,” indicating that many travelers find the scenery here truly captivating. Notably, a guide named Angela was praised for her caring attitude, even helping a traveler with a stroller — a reminder of the personal touch that guides can add.

Old Quebec — A Step Back in Time

Next, your guide will lead a leisurely 1-hour walk through Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area is a treasure trove of cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and vibrant cafes. Highlights include Château Frontenac, one of the most photographed hotels in the world, and Dufferin Terrace, which offers sweeping views over the St. Lawrence River.

Reviewers like Carmichaelle_J appreciated the knowledgeable guides who made the history come alive. They appreciated the personal care, noting how guides like Yang and Nicole provided helpful tips and kept the group engaged. Many mention the quaint Petit-Champlain district as a perfect spot for relaxed wandering and enjoying local snacks.

Optional Cruise & Visits

Depending on the season, you can opt for a 1.5-hour river cruise departing from Old Quebec during the warmer months (May to October). Passengers often rave about the breathtaking views of Château Frontenac, Montmorency Falls, and L’Île d’Orléans from the water. Reviewers describe the cruise as “amazing,” with insightful commentary and gorgeous scenery.

In winter, the tour offers visits to Hôtel de Glace, North America’s only ice hotel, built from 12,000 tons of snow and 350 tons of ice. Inside, you’ll find intricately carved sculptures and ice furniture—an experience that’s both surreal and photogenic.

During other parts of the year, attractions like the Museum of Civilization and Place Royale provide insight into Quebec’s cultural tapestry. The museum offers interactive displays, which reviewers say are very engaging.

Free Exploration Time

Your tour includes about 30 minutes in the quartier Petit-Champlain and Place Royale. These lively spots are ideal for wandering at your own pace, shopping for souvenirs, or grabbing a coffee. Reviewers often highlight the charming ambiance and the opportunity to soak in local life.

Transportation & Comfort

The bus ride is noted as comfortable, with some reviews mentioning the presence of a restroom onboard—crucial for the long drive. The journey is roughly six hours in total, split between travel and stops, which travelers say can be tiring but manageable with good company and scenic views.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $73.39 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the number of sights covered, entry fees included (like Montmorency Falls), and the guided experience. The reviews praise the well-organized nature of the tour and the helpfulness of guides such as Angela, Yang, and Nicole, who keep the day running smoothly.

The optional activities, like the river cruise and visiting the ice hotel, are season-dependent but add a special touch to the day. Reviewers mention that the guided walking tour helped them appreciate the rich history and architecture without the stress of self-guided wandering.

The long coach journey might be a downside for some, especially if you’re not a fan of long bus trips. But with frequent stops and a comfortable bus, many find it acceptable considering the overall experience and variety of sights.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Quebec, those wanting to experience a broad overview in a single day, or travelers who prefer not to organize their own transportation and tickets. If you love nature and history in equal measure, this tour balances both beautifully.

It’s also great for those seeking memorable scenery and photo opportunities, as many stops offer perfect viewpoints. If you’re interested in seasonal attractions (like the ice hotel or river cruises), be sure to check whether your visit aligns with those activities.

Final Note

This full-day excursion from Montreal delivers a comprehensive taste of Quebec’s highlights, blending natural beauty with historical charm. The guides are consistently praised for their friendly, informative approach, making the long day feel more like a fun adventure.

While the long drive might challenge some, the variety of stops, scenic views, and cultural insights make this a worthwhile option for most travelers. The value for money is strong, especially considering the included entry fees and the smooth transportation.

If you’re curious about Quebec’s landscapes and stories but want to see a lot in a short time, this tour provides a well-rounded, photo-worthy, and educational experience—perfect for curious explorers and first-time visitors alike.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts approximately 13 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning to Montreal afterward.

What is included in the price?
The price covers roundtrip transportation from Montreal, a professional guide, and entry fees to Montmorency Falls. It also includes a guided walking tour of Old Quebec.

Are there optional activities during the tour?
Yes, depending on the season, you can enjoy a river cruise (May to October), visit the Hôtel de Glace (January to March), or explore the Museum of Civilization (March to May/November to December).

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase food during free periods.

How comfortable is the transportation?
The bus is described as comfortable, with reviews mentioning a clean vehicle and a restroom onboard, which is helpful given the long hours on the road.

Can I explore Old Quebec freely?
Yes, there’s about 1 hour of guided walking, plus 30 minutes of free time in Petit-Champlain and Place Royale, giving you options to explore at your own pace.

What if I have mobility issues?
Some reviews mention stairs and walking involved, but escalators are available for those who prefer not to climb stairs. It’s best to consider your mobility before booking.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 50 travelers, helping keep the group manageable and ensuring a more personalized experience.

What’s the best season for this tour?
Spring to fall (May-October) offers the river cruise and lush scenery, while winter (January-March) features the ice hotel, making each season uniquely appealing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, allowing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

In summary, this tour provides a well-rounded, value-packed day that captures the essence of Quebec City’s natural and cultural landmarks. It’s perfect for those who want an organized, informative, and scenic experience without the hassle of planning every detail. Whether you’re snapping photos at Montmorency Falls or wandering Old Quebec’s charming streets, this trip can leave you with lasting memories of one of Canada’s most captivating regions.