Quebec city & Montmorency Falls 1 Day Tour from Montreal

Our review of the Quebec City & Montmorency Falls 1 Day Tour from Montreal offers a practical look at what this popular excursion delivers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seeking an efficient way to see some of Canada’s most iconic sights, this tour packs a lot into a single day. It takes you from the vibrant streets of Montreal to the ancient stone walls of North America’s only fortified city, with a breathtaking stop at Montmorency Falls along the way.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the knowledgeable guides who bring the history to life and the stunning viewpoints at Montmorency Falls. However, a potential drawback is the extra costs, such as for the cable car and admission fees, which can add up if you’re not prepared. This tour appeals most to travelers who value a guided experience that hits the highlights without the hassle of planning, especially those with limited time and a curiosity about Canada’s French heritage.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Covering Montmorency Falls and Old Quebec, perfect for first-time visitors.
• Affordable Price: Approximately $45 per person, but expect some additional costs.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the experience with engaging commentary.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup from downtown Montreal, with ease of booking attraction tickets on the bus.
• Limited Time at Key Sites: About 50 minutes at Montmorency Falls and a couple of hours exploring Old Quebec.
• Mixed Reviews on Comfort: Some travelers praise the smooth ride and informative guides, while others mention issues like bus conditions and additional costs.

An Honest Breakdown of the Itinerary

Montmorency Falls – A Natural Wonder

Just a short 15-minute drive from Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls rises 272 feet (83 meters), making it 98 feet higher than Niagara. As we imagine it, the sight of the cascading water is truly striking, especially when the light hits it just right. The tour includes a cable car ride to the top, offering panoramic views, plus trails for those who like to hike around the area.

While the admission to the falls isn’t included in the $45 ticket, you can purchase it easily from the tour guide on the bus, which most travelers seem to appreciate for flexibility. The cable car cost is $26 per person, paid in cash, which many reviewers note is an extra expense they wish was included. The scenic ride provides many breathtaking viewpoints, and from the top, you can see the river valley stretching out.

However, some reviews have expressed frustration about the limited 50-minute window at the falls. One traveler mentioned having to rush up and down the stairs to see everything, which isn’t ideal if you want a relaxed experience. Still, most agree the views and photo opportunities are worth the visit, especially if you’re short on time.

Old Quebec – A Step Back in Time

After the falls, the tour heads into Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and lively neighborhoods like Petit Champlain. As the only fortified city in North America, Quebec’s walls and gates tell stories of military history, with sites like the Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec, the oldest church on the continent.

During our research and review snippets, we found that most visitors enjoy the guided walk, which covers key sights and offers insights into French influence and colonial architecture. The tour includes about two hours in Old Quebec, providing enough time to explore at your own pace, visit cafes, and snap photos of the charming streets.

Reviewers have highlighted the ease of getting around and the beauty of the city, with many noting that the guide’s knowledge made the visit richer. One traveler said, “Quebec City was so wonderful and easy to get around,” emphasizing how accessible the city is for visitors.

Transport and Group Experience

The tour uses an air-conditioned bus, which keeps passengers comfortable in all weather. Most travelers praise the smooth ride and supportive guides, especially those who mention the engaging commentary and patience of the guides. The group size caps at around 55 people, balancing social interaction with the ability to hear the guide clearly.

That said, some reviews point out issues like bus comfort and technical problems, such as non-functioning USB ports or air conditioning, which can detract from the overall experience. For instance, one reviewer noted the bus was “awful” with non-working AC and USB ports, which might matter if you’re sensitive to comfort.

Additional Costs & Considerations

While the core price is reasonable, it’s important to factor in extra costs. Many travelers found that additional fees like the $10 gratuity (paid in cash) and cable car charges are not included upfront but are necessary to enjoy the full experience. This can make the trip more expensive than initially anticipated, so budget accordingly.

Timing & Duration

Starting at 7:00 am in downtown Montreal, the tour lasts roughly 14 hours, ending back near the starting point. The long day means you’ll need to be prepared for a full schedule, but most find the experience worth the effort. The timing at each stop is tight enough to see the highlights but not so rushed that you feel hurried.

Reviews in Context

The reviews paint a picture of a mixed experience, with many praising the guides and scenery but some criticizing bus conditions and extra costs. One customer, “Martine,” raved about the magnificent falls and Quebec’s charm, while another, “Antonella,” expressed disappointment about feeling unsafe on the bus and limited outside views.

The guides and drivers seem to be the stars of the show for many, with comments like “Jade was so kind and dedicated,” and “supportive and engaging.” Conversely, some reviews mention poor bus conditions and rudeness, so potential travelers should be prepared for variability.

The Value of This Experience

At $45 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see two major attractions in one day. Keep in mind that additional costs can add up—the cable car, entrance fees, and gratuities are extras. For many, the value lies in the convenience of transportation, the guided insights, and the ability to tick off Quebec City’s top sights without the hassle of planning.

While some travelers felt the limited time at each site was a drawback, most agree that the scenery, history, and overall experience justify the cost. If you’re looking for a quick, guided overview of Quebec’s highlights, this trip delivers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a snapshot of Quebec City and Montmorency Falls without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. It’s also great for budget-conscious travelers who want a full-day adventure at a reasonable price. However, those expecting a luxury experience or a relaxed pace might find the tight schedule and extra costs less appealing.

It’s especially suited for history buffs, photo enthusiasts, and anyone interested in experiencing a taste of French-speaking Canada’s culture in just one day.

The Sum Up

In sum, the Quebec City & Montmorency Falls day trip from Montreal offers a practical way to explore two of Quebec’s most iconic sights. You’ll benefit from expert guides, stunning views at Montmorency, and a walkable, charming old town. The experience provides excellent value, especially if you come prepared for some additional expenses like admission fees and gratuities.

For travelers keen on seeing Quebec’s unique atmosphere without spending too much time or money, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly well-suited if you’re looking for a well-organized, informative day trip, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and cultural insights.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, the tour provides transportation via an air-conditioned bus from downtown Montreal to all the main sites.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees. You can buy tickets for Montmorency Falls’ cable car ($26 cash) on the bus, and the guide can assist with purchasing other attraction tickets.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 50 minutes at Montmorency Falls and roughly two hours in Old Quebec. The schedule is designed to give a taste of each site but may feel rushed if you prefer a leisurely pace.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for additional costs like the cable car, gratuities, and any extra tickets. A camera, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing are also advisable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers with children enjoyed the trip, especially those interested in scenery and history. However, keep in mind the long day and walking involved.

What are the main negatives mentioned by reviewers?
Some express concerns about bus comfort, technical issues, and the extra costs not included in the original ticket price. Several reviewers also mention limited time at the falls and the need to rush.

This detailed look at the Quebec City & Montmorency Falls tour should help you decide if it’s right for your travel style. It’s a convenient, affordable way to experience some of Canada’s most picturesque and historic sites—just be ready for a full day and some extra expenses along the way.