From Montreal: Quebec City & Montmorency Falls Full Day Trip

Discover Quebec City & Montmorency Falls on a Full-Day Trip from Montreal

This full-day adventure from Montreal takes you to Montmorency Falls, towering over Niagara at 275 feet, and into the heart of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and lively neighborhoods. For $73.39 per person, you’ll enjoy a roughly 13-hour journey that includes transportation, a guided city walk, and optional boat cruises, offering a well-rounded taste of Quebec’s most iconic sights.

What we love about this tour is how it balances natural grandeur with cultural richness. The stunning views of Montmorency Falls are breathtaking—especially from the suspension bridge—and the guided walk through Old Quebec allows for culture in a manageable, relaxed way. Plus, the tour guide’s friendly, knowledgeable manner keeps the whole experience engaging.

One key consideration is the long bus ride—about three hours each way. While comfortable and equipped with a restroom, the drive can feel lengthy, especially if you’re not a fan of long transfers. Still, for those eager to see a lot in a day, this trip offers excellent value and memorable sights. It suits travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, history, and scenic walking without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

This tour is perfect for visitors with a curiosity for Canada’s historic roots, stunning landscapes, and vibrant city life. Whether you’re eager to see the Château Frontenac, enjoy the river cruise (seasonal), or simply want a comprehensive taste of Quebec, this experience delivers a balanced, authentic day out.

Key Points

• Natural Wonder: Montmorency Falls is taller than Niagara and accessible with included admission, plus optional cable car rides.
• Cultural Gems: Old Quebec offers centuries-old architecture, cobblestone streets, and iconic landmarks like Château Frontenac and Place Royale.
• Expert Guides: Tour guides like Angela, Yang, and Jason are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and organization.
• Flexibility: Free time in Quebec City allows you to explore neighborhoods like Petit-Champlain and enjoy local cafes.
• Seasonal Highlights: The ice hotel (Hôtel de Glace) in winter or the river cruise in summer add unique touches to the experience.
• Value: At just over $73, the tour includes several key attractions, guided walking tours, and round-trip transportation, making it a good value for a full day.

An In-Depth Look at the Quebec City & Montmorency Falls Day Trip

The Journey Begins: Transportation and Timing

Starting early at 7:00 am from Montreal, the bus ride to Quebec is approximately three hours. While some travelers mention the length of the drive as a drawback—”its six hours in total”—most agree that the comfort of the bus and the scenic views along the way make it manageable. The bus is equipped with a restroom, which is a real bonus on a long trip, especially since bathroom breaks during the drive might be limited.

The group size is capped at 50 travelers, so there’s enough room to spread out and relax. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the comfort of the transportation, which helps make the long hours more bearable.

Montmorency Falls: Natural Drama at Its Best

Your first stop is Montmorency Falls, where the roar of cascading water can be heard from afar. This waterfall, at 275 feet, is actually taller than Niagara Falls, which surprises many first-time visitors. The tour includes the admission ticket, so you can walk right up to the viewing platforms, cross the suspension bridge for panoramic views, or descend to the base for a close-up experience.

One review mentions that the view from the suspension bridge is spectacular, while others appreciate the opportunity to stand beneath the falling water and feel its power firsthand. During the seasonal months (May to October), there’s an optional cable car ride that offers stunning aerial perspectives—and if you’re a keen photographer, this is worth considering.

A note to travelers: the tour doesn’t include the cable car fee, so if you want that extra thrill, budget for it separately. The time allocated here is about an hour, enough to take in the scenery and snap plenty of photos.

Exploring Old Quebec: Walking and Wonder

After the falls, the tour guides give suggestions for exploring Old Quebec, a district bursting with charm. You’ll get an hour of free time—ample opportunity to wander the cobblestone streets, peek into boutique shops, or relax in a cozy café.

Many reviews praise guides like Angela or Yang for their storytelling and helpfulness. As one reviewer notes, Angela “was so caring, ensuring everyone was well,” even assisting with a stroller climb. This personal touch can turn a good tour into a memorable one.

Optional Cruises and Attractions

Depending on the season, you might choose to add a 1.5-hour river cruise departing from Old Quebec, offering views of l’Île d’Orléans and the city skyline. Although the cruise isn’t included in the base price, it’s lauded for its breathtaking vistas—some reviewers call it “amazing,” with commentary onboard enhancing the experience.

In winter months (January to March), the Hôtel de Glace presents a stunning ice hotel, built from thousands of tons of snow and ice, with intricate sculptures and ice furniture. This is a unique attraction, and while it’s not included in the ticket price, many find it well worth the visit.

Cultural Landmarks and Historic Sites

Back in Old Quebec, getting up close with landmarks like the Place Royale, the Fairmont Château Frontenac, and the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral provides tangible links to the city’s past. Most travelers agree that these sites are not just beautiful but rich with stories that make history feel alive.

Many reviewers appreciated the guided walk, which offers context and historical tidbits—”our guide Jason was knowledgeable and accommodating,” as one person said.

Flexibility and Free Time

One of the tour’s strong points is giving you free time—to wander, shop, or simply soak up the atmosphere. The Quartier Petit Champlain is perfect for relaxing, with its narrow streets lined with shops and cafes. The Place Royale offers a picturesque square with a bronze statue of King Louis XIV, reminding visitors of Quebec’s French roots.

Price and Value Analysis

At $73.39, this tour provides access to multiple highlights—the falls, guided walk, historic sites, and scenic views—making it a solid value. The inclusion of entry fees for Montmorency Falls and the guided walk further enhances the deal. Optional attractions like the cruise or Hôtel de Glace cost extra but are optional, letting you personalize your experience.

Many reviewers find the price reasonable given the variety of sights and guided insights, especially when compared to the cost and effort of planning such a comprehensive day independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys a balance of natural beauty and cultural sights, this trip is ideal. It suits travelers who are comfortable with a long day on a bus but want a guided, well-organized experience. It’s especially good for those eager to explore Quebec’s historic districts and see spectacular waterfalls without the hassle of driving or navigating alone.

The tour’s flexibility and friendly guides make it accessible for families, history buffs, and first-time visitors alike. The opportunity to explore at your own pace during free time adds to its appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long bus ride and walking involved. The guide can help with stairs and accessibility.

Does the tour include meals?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy lunch during your free time in Quebec City.

Can I visit the Hôtel de Glace?
Yes, but only during winter (January to March), and the visit to the ice hotel costs extra.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
Seasonally, the tour is flexible—in summer, you can enjoy the river cruise, while winter offers the Hôtel de Glace. Spring and fall are quieter but may lack some seasonal attractions.

Is the river cruise included?
No, the cruise runs May to October and is an optional extra.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a jacket depending on the season, and a camera for all the scenic views.

Can I book for a different date if I make a mistake?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, but changing dates less than 24 hours in advance isn’t possible.

How large are the tour groups?
Up to 50 travelers, which helps ensure personalized attention from guides.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Montreal to Quebec City and Montmorency Falls offers a well-organized, value-packed way to enjoy some of the most iconic sights in Quebec without the stress of planning. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the stunning natural scenery and historic sites, create a memorable experience. While the lengthy bus ride might be a consideration for some, many reviews highlight the comfort and professionalism that ease the journey.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to walk the historic streets, a nature lover wanting to see the impressive waterfalls, or simply looking for a convenient way to experience Quebec’s highlights, this tour fits the bill. It’s a solid choice for visitors who value guided insights, flexible free time, and good overall value.

To sum it up, this trip is best suited for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Quebec’s most famous sights in one day. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, families, and anyone who appreciates a mix of natural wonder and historic charm. If you’re eager to see the Château Frontenac, walk the cobblestones of Old Quebec, and stand beneath towering waterfalls, this tour guarantees a rewarding and efficient adventure.