From Montreal: Quebec City One Day Trip with Hotel Pickup

If you’re looking for an efficient way to experience Quebec City’s charm without the hassle of planning, this one-day trip from Montreal might be just what you need. Offered by Concord Tours and Travel, this tour promises to cover top sights—from towering waterfalls to historic streets—in about 13 hours. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 250 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find it a worthwhile adventure.

What we especially appreciate about this experience is the hotel pickup and drop-off option—making logistics straightforward—and the guided walking tour of Old Quebec, which adds context and stories to your stroll through some of North America’s oldest neighborhoods. That said, the lengthy bus ride—about six hours roundtrip—might be a stretch for some, so if your idea of a perfect trip involves more leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, if you’re eager to maximize your time and see Quebec’s highlights in one go, this tour offers great value and memorable scenery. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that combines natural beauty with historic charm, without the stress of independent planning.

Key Points

• Convenient logistics with hotel pickup within 5KM of Montreal
• Rich mix of sights: waterfalls, historic streets, and iconic hotels
• Guided walking tour adds valuable insights into Old Quebec
• Optional activities like river cruises and ice hotel visits are available in season
• Long bus ride is unavoidable but offers comfort if you value organized transport
• Great for first-timers wanting a broad overview of Quebec City in a single day

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Parc de la Chute-Montmorency: Nature’s Grandeur

The day kicks off early with a scenic journey from Montreal, lasting about six hours including stops. Your first highlight is the Montmorency Falls, a stunning cascade taller than Niagara. With admission included, you’ll spend around 1 hour 40 minutes here, giving you time to walk across the suspension bridge, snap photos, and enjoy the spray of the falls.

Many reviews mention how this stop feels like a true highlight—“the spray of the falls makes it an adventure,” as one traveler noted. The views are breathtaking, and it’s a great way to connect with nature without leaving the city. For those who enjoy a bit of thrill, optional activities like the cable car or zip lining are available, though not included in the tour.

Old Quebec: A Walk into History

Next, your guide takes you into Old Quebec, where you’ll get a 1-hour guided walking tour. This is the part of the trip where you’ll really start to feel the city’s charm, with stories about the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, one of the most photographed hotels in the world. You’ll visit Place Royale, one of North America’s oldest squares, and explore the bustling streets on your own for about three hours.

One of the most praised aspects here is the guidance. Several travelers have told us how knowledgeable guides like William and Richard made the history come alive with humor and interesting anecdotes. You’ll also have free time to explore Petit Champlain, a quaint, cobblestone street lined with shops and cafes. Many reviews note the opportunity to relax and wander independently, soaking in the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights within Old Quebec

• Notre Dame de Quebec Basilica: The oldest cathedral in North America, with baroque architecture and over 350 years of history.
• Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: A majestic hotel that’s been a city icon for centuries.
• Quartier Petit Champlain: The oldest commercial street in North America, perfect for photos and local treats.

Travelers often mention how these iconic sites truly capture the essence of Quebec. As one reviewer put it, “the hotel witnessed the Hundred Years War between France and England,” giving you a sense of living history.

Optional Activities: Seasonal Sights and Tours

Depending on the season, you might choose to add on a river cruise (May to October), which offers stunning views of the city, Montmorency Falls, and Île d’Orléans. Several travelers found the cruise to be a highlight, especially if they could get a front-row seat.

In the winter months, the Hôtel de Glace is available—an incredible hotel made entirely of snow and ice. If you visit between January and March, this is a must-see, with intricately carved sculptures and a surreal atmosphere.

Other optional visits include the Museum of Civilization (March to May and November-December), offering cultural insights, and the Ice Hotel (January to March), which many find fascinating for its artistry and uniqueness.

The Scenic River Cruise and Other Extras

The cruise is an optional extra, not included in the base price. For those who indulge, it provides a different perspective on the city’s surroundings and is highly rated by many who take it. The reviews suggest that the cruise adds a memorable element to the trip, with many describing it as “a smooth, enjoyable experience” with excellent views.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The bus ride from Montreal to Quebec City is about 3 hours each way, so be prepared for a long day on the road. However, travelers appreciate the modern, comfortable bus, which includes a restroom, with some noting the driver’s steady and kind service. The maximum group size is around 55, which keeps the atmosphere lively but manageable.

The tour begins early at 7:00 am, with pickup at a central Montreal location. The schedule is tight, designed to maximize sightseeing—some might find the pace brisk, especially at Montmorency Falls, where a full two hours might be more relaxing than the one-hour slot. Reviews mention that longer time at the falls would be ideal but acknowledge the trade-off with other stops.

Quality and Value for Money

At $95.62 per person, the tour offers a lot of value. It includes entry to Montmorency Falls, a guided walking tour, and roundtrip transportation. For travelers short on time but eager to see Quebec’s highlights, this tour packs in quite a lot for the price.

The reviews consistently praise the guides—for example, Felix and William are described as friendly, humorous, and knowledgeable—making the long day more enjoyable. The good balance of guided and free time allows flexibility to wander and relax at your own pace.

Some travelers noted that the long bus ride is the main drawback, but many felt the convenience and sights seen make up for it. The optional activities, while not included, are reasonably priced and can be added if desired.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Montreal to Quebec City is an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of the city’s must-see sights without the hassle of planning every detail. The combination of natural beauty at Montmorency Falls, historic streets, and iconic landmarks make it a well-rounded experience.

It suits travelers who value organized logistics, knowledgeable guides, and a structured schedule that covers the highlights efficiently. If you’re comfortable with a long bus ride and looking to maximize your single day in Quebec, this tour offers solid value for its price.

For those seeking a leisurely exploration or more personalized attention, the tour might feel a bit rushed, particularly at Montmorency Falls and the free time in Old Quebec. However, many reviews highlight the professional guides and the scenic, cultural richness of the stops as major pluses.

Overall, it’s a dependable, thoughtfully organized way to see Quebec City, especially if you want to tick the box on one of North America’s most charming destinations, all while enjoying the convenience of hotel pickup and a seasoned guide.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup is included if your hotel is within 5KM of the departure point in Montreal, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the bus ride from Montreal to Quebec City?
The roundtrip journey is approximately six hours, with about three hours each way.

What are the main sights I will see?
You’ll visit Montmorency Falls, explore Old Quebec with a guided tour, see iconic sites like Notre Dame Basilica and Château Frontenac, and enjoy free time to wander.

Are there optional activities?
Yes. From May to October, you can opt for a river cruise, and in winter, you might visit the Hôtel de Glace. These activities are not included but can be added separately.

How much free time do I get in Quebec City?
You’ll have around three hours of free time to explore, shop, or relax in Old Quebec after the guided portion.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those who dislike long bus rides or have mobility issues may want to consider their comfort.

What is the guide like?
Reviews describe guides like William, Felix, and Richard as friendly, humorous, and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience with interesting stories.

Will I have enough time at Montmorency Falls?
Most say yes, but some wish for more. The tour allocates about 1 hour 40 minutes, which is generally enough for photos and brief exploration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Optional activities like the cable car or ice hotel require extra planning.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility in case of unforeseen circumstances.

This tour balances scheduled sightseeing with free time, guided insights with independent wandering, and natural beauty with historic grandeur. If those qualities match your travel style, it could be the perfect day to unlock Quebec City’s secrets without the stress of driving or complicated arrangements.