Half-Day Trip to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré from Quebec city

If you’re visiting Quebec City and looking for a way to enjoy some of the area’s most iconic sights without committing to a full day, this half-day tour might catch your eye. It’s designed to be a straightforward, hassle-free way to see Montmorency Falls, visit a stunning basilica, and enjoy some local treats and artisan crafts—all within about four and a half hours.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines several popular attractions into a compact package. The coach transport makes it easy to relax and take in the scenery without worrying about navigation, and the admission to the sites is included—no surprise costs. Plus, having a guide to share insider stories adds a layer of depth to what could otherwise be just a sightseeing list.

That said, one potential downside is the limited time at each stop, especially at Montmorency Falls. Several reviews mention feeling a bit rushed, which is something to keep in mind if you’re craving more in-depth exploration. Still, for travelers who want a taste of Quebec’s natural beauty and cultural highlights in a manageable half-day trip, this tour offers a decent balance.

It’s especially suited for those who prefer organized group outings over DIY plans, are interested in visiting multiple attractions in a short time, or want an overview of the local area with some added stories from a guide. If you’re short on time but want a structured experience, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Convenient coach transport makes exploring easy and comfortable.
• Includes admission to Montmorency Falls, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica, and other sites.
• Visiting multiple attractions in just half a day offers good value.
• Guides provide personalized insights that enrich the experience.
• Limited time at each stop might leave some wanting more depth.
• Best suited for those who prefer organized tours over independent exploring.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour starts from the historic heart of Quebec City, near Château Frontenac. From there, you’re whisked away into the surrounding countryside—an area dotted with farms, scenic homes, and charming villages. The trip lasts about four and a half hours, giving you a satisfying quick escape from the city buzz.

Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica

Your first stop is the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, a site that many find breathtaking. You’re given around 45 minutes to explore independently, which is enough to take in the architecture and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. A highlight for many visitors is the miraculous reputation of this church, which has been a pilgrimage destination for ages.

Several reviews praise the basilica, with one traveler commenting, “The church was very nice, and I was impressed with the guide’s ability to speak both French and English fluently.” It’s a place where you can appreciate both the spiritual significance and the impressive design. Be aware, though, that if you’re expecting a lengthy tour inside, this isn’t that—it’s just enough time for a stroll and a quick look around.

Montmorency Falls

Next, you’ll visit Montmorency Falls, a stunning waterfall taller than Niagara, at 83 meters (272 feet). The view here is truly memorable, especially if you love natural scenery. You’ll spend about 45 minutes wandering near the falls, snapping photos, and browsing the gift shop.

Some reviews note that the time at the falls is a little tight. One person mentioned, “We had the same amount of time at the falls as at the chocolate store, and it felt rushed to get the full experience.” If you’re keen to walk to the top or cross the suspension bridge, you might find the allotted time limiting. Still, the view from below is spectacular, and you’ll definitely get a good sense of why this spot is so popular.

Copper Art & Island Stop

The tour also includes a visit to the Albert Gilles Copper Art & Museum, where you can see how artisans emboss copper and learn about the craft. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, but many find it interesting, especially if you appreciate craftsmanship and want a souvenir or two. The museum visit is free, but you’ll have time to browse the gift shop.

Following that, you’re taken on a short drive around Île d’Orléans, an island known for its picturesque farms, charming villages, and local produce. The stop here lasts about 40 minutes, enough to enjoy the scenery from the bus and maybe snap a few pictures.

Chocolate Stop

Finally, the tour includes a visit to the Chocolaterie de l’Île d’Orléans. It’s a chance to sample and purchase sweet treats, and many travelers enjoy the view across the water from the shop. Reviewers often mention that this is a nice, sweet ending to the trip, though some wish they could spend more time here or skip it altogether for more time at Montmorency Falls.

The Practicalities

Transport is by comfortable coach, with a maximum group size of about 45 travelers, which keeps things manageable but still lively. The tour runs morning or afternoon, providing flexibility depending on your schedule. The total cost is around $69.65 per person, which covers all admissions, guided commentary, and taxes—overall, a fair price considering the number of sites visited.

The tour’s reviews are generally positive, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the scenic drives, calling it a great value for a half-day adventure. Of course, some mention that the timing can be a bit rushed and that it’s not ideal if you’re looking for an in-depth experience at each stop.

What Do the Reviews Say?

We found the reviews helpful in understanding what to expect. For example, one traveler said, “The tour included visits to the Falls, St. Anne’s Basilica, a chocolate shop, and a copper shop as well as scenic drives among homes. The visits were varied and interesting,” highlighting the tour’s diversity.

Another review pointed out, “The guide was very personable and knowledgeable,” which is reassuring if you enjoy learning from your guide. On the flip side, some visitors felt the time was insufficient at the waterfalls, with one comment: “We loved the views but didn’t have enough time to go to the top or really explore.”

A few reviews also note logistical hiccups—like a bus breakdown that led to lost stops or slight schedule shifts—but overall, most travelers seem satisfied with the experience given the price and length.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who want a quick, well-organized glimpse of some of Quebec’s most beloved sights, this tour offers good value. The scenic drive, diverse stops, and insightful guides make it a solid choice, especially if you’re short on time or prefer being part of a group rather than planning independently.

However, if you’re someone who loves spending lots of time at each location or has specific interests like walking to the top of Montmorency Falls, you might find the limited time frustrating. It’s also worth considering if you’re after a more personalized or in-depth experience—this trip does a nice job of covering the highlights but doesn’t leave much room for exploring at your own pace.

Overall, it’s a practical, enjoyable way to see some of Quebec’s countryside and landmarks without a huge time commitment. Just keep expectations in check about the pace and depth at each stop.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire trip takes about four and a half hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time at each stop.

What is included in the price?
The price covers coach transport, admission to Montmorency Falls and Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica, visits to the copper art museum and chocolatier, and a guide’s insights.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is designed for general audiences, with no specific mention of family friendliness, but it’s straightforward enough for most groups.

Can I choose between a morning and afternoon departure?
Yes, you can select your preferred departure time when booking—either in the morning or the afternoon.

Is there enough time at each stop?
While the schedule is packed, many reviews mention the time is a bit tight, especially at the falls. If you want to fully explore or walk to the top, be prepared for a quick visit.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, some water, and perhaps a snack for the short breaks. The stops are brief, so plan accordingly.

Is there a guide for the entire trip?
Yes, a professional guide accompanies the group, providing commentary and stories along the way.

What’s the typical group size?
The tour usually has a maximum of 45 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

If you’re after a concise, scenic overview of some of Quebec’s most iconic sights, this tour is worth considering. Just keep in mind the time constraints and pace—perfect for a quick, well-rounded introduction rather than an exhaustive exploration.