From Montreal: Quebec City Day Trip with Ice Hotel Entry

Imagine leaving the skyscrapers and hustle of Montreal behind for a day and stepping into a scene that feels at once European and North American. That’s exactly what you get with this 10-hour Quebec City day trip. For around a mid-range price, you’ll visit Montmorency Falls, explore the cobbled streets of Old Quebec—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and marvel at the ice sculptures of Hôtel de Glace. Led by guides offering English, French, or Chinese commentary, this tour is designed to be accessible and engaging, even in winter.

What we love most? First, the balance of nature and history—from the spectacular waterfall to the charming old town. Second, the unique experience of the Ice Hotel, which makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland. A potential consideration? The long travel hours mean you’ll need patience and comfort with daytime touring, especially if winter weather causes delays.

This trip suits those who enjoy cultural sights, scenic landscapes, and a bit of adventure. It’s also perfect if you want to see multiple highlights in one day without the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transport. If you’re eager for authentic, well-organized tours with multilingual guides, this one ticks plenty of boxes.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Montmorency Falls, Old Quebec, and the Ice Hotel.
• Multilingual guides enhance understanding and enjoyment.
• Good value for money considering the number of attractions visited.
• Comfortable transportation and pickup included, with options for hotel pickup within Montreal.
• Flexible cancellation and booking options allow peace of mind.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of nature, history, and unique winter experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Quebec City Day Trip

This tour is a well-rounded way to experience some of Quebec’s most iconic sights in just one day. It’s especially appealing in winter when the scenery transforms into a snow-blanketed landscape, and the Hotel de Glace becomes a sparkling, icy masterpiece. For travelers who thrive on seeing top attractions without the hassle of planning each detail, this guided trip delivers.

Starting the Journey: Pickup and Transportation

The experience begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Montreal or a designated meeting point. The organizers offer hotel pickups within 5 km of downtown Montreal, which is convenient for most travelers staying in the city. If you’re staying farther out, the meeting point at 68 Boul. René-Lévesque O is centrally located and easy to find.

The transport itself is described as highly-rated, with 89% of reviews giving it a perfect score. The vehicle is likely comfortable and suitable for a full day, with enough room for a group to relax on the 2-hour drive to Quebec City. The ride gives you a chance to settle in and get some background from your guides, who speak English, French, and Chinese.

Montmorency Falls: The First Stop

The tour’s first highlight is the Montmorency Falls, which are taller than Niagara Falls, at 83 meters. The impressive cascade plunges into the St. Lawrence River, and you’ll get the chance to walk across a suspended bridge, offering spectacular views of the rushing water. Many reviews mention the beautiful scenery and the thrill of standing so close to the falling water.

One traveler praised the experience, saying, “We loved the way the guide led us to see the waterfall and the bridge, making it both informative and fun.” In winter, the falls often become a majestic ice-covered spectacle, adding a touch of magic to the visit.

Exploring Old Quebec: A Walk Through History

Next, you’ll head into Old Quebec, a UNESCO site packed with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and vibrant shops. The guided tour includes a walking exploration of key sites like Chateau Frontenac—the iconic hotel often called the most photographed hotel in the world—and La Citadelle de Québec, a historic fortress.

Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledgeable and engaging commentary, with some travelers noting guides like William, who was described as “fabulous and impressively multilingual.” You’ll have time to wander on your own through the Quartier Petit-Champlain, known for its quaint boutiques and cafes, perfect for a quick lunch or some souvenir shopping.

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The Icy Marvel: Hôtel de Glace

The Hôtel de Glace is the tour’s pièce de résistance. It’s an entire hotel made of ice and snow, featuring crystal-clear sculptures, glowing arches, and intricate ice furniture. Entering this structure feels like stepping into a fairy tale, especially with the sparkling lights illuminating the ice.

Visitors consistently praise the hotel’s architectural wonder and remarkable craftsmanship. One review states, “The Hôtel de Glace is a magnificent feat, and the sculptures are breathtaking.” Entry is included, allowing you to explore at your own pace, marveling at the carved ice rooms and artistic details.

Flexible and Well-Organized

The tour operates rain or shine, ensuring you don’t miss out on the sights due to weather—though cold weather adds to the experience, especially at the Ice Hotel. For those concerned about comfort, note that appropriate footwear is recommended, as cobbled streets and snow can be slippery.

The entire package includes round-trip transportation, guided commentary in multiple languages, and entry fees—making it a solid value considering the number of attractions. The tour also offers cancelation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Real Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Emily from the US called her guide “fabulous,” and many appreciated the well-paced schedule. One traveler from Switzerland noted the organized flow of the day, describing it as “perfect,” while others appreciated the time allotted at each stop for photos and exploration.

However, some reviews mention long travel times and occasional delays, especially in winter conditions. One traveler noted that a bus breakdown caused delays, reducing their time in Quebec City. If you’re a traveler who prefers a more relaxed pace, this might be a consideration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a full taste of Quebec in a single day, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want a guided overview and don’t want to worry about logistics. It’s also ideal for winter travelers eager to see the Ice Hotel and enjoy scenic waterfalls, with guides who speak multiple languages making it accessible for a diverse group.

The Sum Up

This Montreal-to-Quebec City day trip offers a well-balanced blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and winter wonder. The visit to Montmorency Falls provides stunning views and photo opportunities, while Old Quebec immerses you in a European atmosphere that feels worlds away from North America’s urban landscape. The Ice Hotel adds a unique, memorable touch that makes the entire experience stand out.

For travelers who value expert guides, convenient logistics, and a diverse itinerary, this tour offers excellent value for money, given the number of sites covered. It’s perfect for those eager to see the highlights without planning every detail themselves, and it’s especially rewarding in winter months when the scenery truly transforms.

While some may find the long hours a challenge—particularly if winter weather causes delays—most reviews confirm the tour’s organization and professionalism. If you’re prepared for a full day with a fair dose of travel, you’ll leave with stories and photos that will keep the memories alive long after your trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from Montreal hotels within 5 km of downtown or from a central meeting point at 68 Boul. René-Lévesque O.

How long is the drive from Montreal to Quebec City?
The drive is approximately 2 hours, providing time for some commentary from guides and a comfortable ride.

What attractions are included in the tour?
You’ll visit Montmorency Falls, walk through Old Quebec, explore Quartier Petit-Champlain, and enter the Hôtel de Glace.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for winter weather?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine, and winter scenery adds to the experience—just dress warmly and wear suitable shoes.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak French, English, and Chinese.

How much time do I get at each stop?
The schedule is designed to give you ample time to explore each attraction, but some reviews suggest more time in Quebec City would be appreciated.

What is the cost for the tour?
While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews indicate it offers good value considering the attractions and convenience included.

This tour is an efficient way to capture the essence of Quebec in a single day, especially if you’re coming from Montreal. It combines natural beauty, historic charm, and a touch of winter magic — perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with authentic highlights and friendly guides.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby