From Montreal: Quebec City & Montmorency Falls Full Day Trip

Traveling from Montreal to explore Quebec City and Montmorency Falls offers a wonderful mix of nature, history, and culture—all in one day. This full-day trip, run by Concord Tours and Travel, is designed for those who want to maximize their time and see some of Quebec’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. With a mix of guided tours, free time, and optional extras, it promises a balanced glimpse into the region’s natural splendor and historic charm.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the well-organized itinerary and the knowledgeable guides who enhance every stop with insights and local tips. The tour’s overall value also stands out—particularly considering the multiple sites visited and included admission fees.

A potential consideration is the long travel time—about 6 hours on the road in total—which might be tiring for some travelers, especially those with limited stamina. If you’re not a fan of lengthy bus journeys, this might be a point to weigh against the overall payoff of seeing Quebec’s highlights in one day.

This tour suits travelers craving an immersive day of natural beauty and historic exploration without the need to organize transport or logistics themselves. Perfect for first-timers, day-trippers from Montreal, or anyone wanting a rundown of the region in a single, memorable outing.

Key Points

• Balance of Nature and History: Combines stunning Montmorency Falls with the historic streets of Quebec City.
• Cost-Effective: At around $73, this tour offers a good value considering multiple attractions and guided insights.
• Comfortable Transportation: The bus is modern, with amenities like a restroom, making the journey more bearable.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep the group engaged.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample opportunities for self-exploration, shopping, or relaxing in key areas.
• Optional Extras: River cruise and visits to the Ice Hotel or Museum of Civilization can be added, depending on the season.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Journey Begins Early and Well-Organized

Starting at 7:00 am from Montreal, the tour kicks off with a comfortable bus ride. Most travelers seem to appreciate the modern amenities, including a washroom on board, which makes the lengthy drive more pleasant. Given the approximately 6-hour total travel time, the bus’s comfort and the scenic views along the route help pass the time. As one reviewer mentions, “Quan and his driver are awesome at what they do! The bus is comfortable and has a washroom,” emphasizing the importance of a smooth journey for such a long day.

Montmorency Falls: A Natural Wonder

The first stop is the spectacular Montmorency Falls, towering 275 feet and surpassing Niagara Falls in height. Standing at the foot of the falls, you’ll immediately notice the roar of cascading water and the spray in the air. The included admission ticket grants access to various viewpoints, including the suspension bridge with panoramic vistas.

Travelers often comment on the breathtaking scenery, with one noting, “Loved the trip. Angela was an amazing guide and was so caring, ensuring everyone was well.” The optional cable car, not included, offers a different perspective, but even without it, the views are impressive. The only downside? The stairs leading up to some viewing points can be challenging for those with mobility issues, although an escalator is available for some sections, and guides are willing to help.

Exploring Old Quebec

After a scenic drive, the tour arrives in Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and lively neighborhoods. You get roughly an hour of free time, which is enough to stroll, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Guides often offer suggestions—some recommend exploring the Quartier Petit-Champlain, one of North America’s oldest commercial districts, with its boutique shops and cafés. Many travelers mention how much they enjoyed wandering the narrow streets, admiring centuries-old buildings like the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac—a picture-perfect hotel that’s also an architectural icon.

Optional River Cruise: A Highlight for Many

From May to October, the Croisières AML offers a 1.5-hour cruise departing from Old Quebec. Passing by l’Île d’Orléans, the cruise provides some of the best views of Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls from the water. Reviewers frequently praise this addition, describing it as “amazing” and noting the delightful commentary as the boat glides past scenic sites.

Seasonal Attractions and Optional Visits

Depending on when you visit, there are other attractions. From January to March, the Hôtel de Glace—North America’s only ice hotel—is open. Inside, intricate ice sculptures and furniture create a fairy-tale atmosphere, while the outside features snow and ice structures.

From March to May and November to December, travelers can opt to visit the Museum of Civilization, which offers engaging, participatory exhibits that inspire curiosity. This flexibility helps tailor the tour to your interests and season.

Iconic Landmarks and Free Exploration

Stops at Place Royale, Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, and the Place d’Armes give travelers a chance to appreciate the city’s deep roots in French colonial history. With brief stops at these sites, you can take photos, learn a little history, and soak in the ambiance.

The End of the Day

The tour wraps up back at the Montreal meeting point around 8–9 pm, after a full day of sightseeing. Travelers often praise the well-paced itinerary and the helpful guidance, with comments like “Angela was an amazing guide, caring and knowledgeable,” and “The bus was comfortable, and the driver was very nice.”

Pricing and Value

At approximately $73.39 per person, this trip offers good value, particularly considering the included entrance fees and guided walks. The cost covers transportation, a professional guide, and some attractions, which could be expensive to organize independently. Optional extras—like the river cruise or visiting the Ice Hotel—are not included but can be added seasonally, offering flexibility.

Many reviews highlight the excellent guides and well-organized logistics as key reasons for the good value. One reviewer said, “Thought this was great value for the price. Had a wonderful trip and enjoyed the tours very much.”

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This day trip is best suited for first-time visitors eager to see both natural and historic highlights in a single day. It’s also ideal for those with limited time in Montreal who want a rundown without the stress of planning on their own. If you’re comfortable with a long bus ride and want maximum sightseeing, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Montreal to Quebec City and Montmorency Falls offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and practical convenience. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and enough flexibility for personal exploration, it delivers a memorable experience for most travelers. While the lengthy travel time might be tiring for some, many reviewers agree that the sights, stories, and stunning views more than compensate for the hours spent on the bus.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed day trip that takes you through Quebec’s highlights, this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly well-suited for first-timers, history buffs, and those who love combining outdoor scenery with cultural exploration—all in a worry-free package.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Montreal to Quebec City is included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery while the guides handle the driving.

How long is the bus ride?
The total travel time is about 6 hours, split between the journey to Quebec and the return. The bus is modern, comfortable, and equipped with a restroom.

What attractions are included in the price?
The Montmorency Falls admission fee is included, along with a 1-hour guided walking tour of Old Quebec. Other attractions, such as the river cruise or Ice Hotel, are optional and seasonally available.

Can I customize my experience?
While the core itinerary is fixed, optional attractions like the cruise or Ice Hotel can be added depending on the season, giving some flexibility.

What’s the best season to go?
Spring through fall (May–October) is ideal for the river cruise and Montmorency Falls. Winter (January–March) offers the unique experience of the Ice Hotel, adding a different kind of magic.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate; however, those with mobility issues should be mindful of stairs and walking on cobblestone streets. Guides are willing to assist where possible.

This full-day trip from Montreal makes it practical to see Quebec’s highlights without feeling rushed, offering a taste of the province’s natural beauty and historic charm. It’s a good choice for those seeking an organized, insightful, and scenic overview of this captivating region.