From Montreal: Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip

If you’re considering a day out from Montreal to explore Quebec City and the stunning Montmorency Falls, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a practical way to see two iconic sights without the stress of planning or driving yourself.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it combines comfort with a well-rounded experience—a good bus ride, informative guides, and enough sightseeing to get a feel for the city. Plus, the chance to stand in awe of a waterfall that’s 1.5 times bigger than Niagara? That’s hard to beat.

One thing to keep in mind is the duration and timing of the stops—some reviews mention feeling a bit rushed, especially at the falls. If you’re someone who loves to linger over every detail or take plenty of photos, you might find the allotted time at Montmorency Falls a bit brief.

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, guided taste of Quebec City in a single day—perfect for travelers who prefer not to navigate public transport or rent a car. It’s especially nice if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy a full day trip with knowledgeable guides and scenic highlights.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with a premium bus makes the long day more relaxing.
• Expert guides share interesting facts and local insights, bringing the sights to life.
• Flexible pickup and drop-off at downtown Montreal hotels adds convenience.
• Visit multiple highlights such as Old Quebec, the Chateau Frontenac, and Plains of Abraham.
• Spectacular views of Montmorency Falls provide excellent photo opportunities.
• Time management is generally good, but some reviews note brief stops at the falls.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Looks Like

Starting from downtown Montreal, you’ll be picked up at a convenient location—specifically at 1001 Dorchester Square, near Peel and Bonaventure metro stations. The ride to Quebec City takes about three hours, but the bus is described as comfortable and well-maintained, making the journey less of a chore.

Once in Quebec, your guide will lead you through some of the city’s most famous sites. Expect to see Place Royale, Old Quebec, and the Petit Champlain district, all of which are packed with charming streets and historic buildings. The guides are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and, in some cases, bilingual, which makes exploring easier for non-French speakers.

You’ll also get a chance to stroll along Grande-Allee and visit the Chateau Frontenac, arguably the city’s most recognizable landmark. A highlight for many is the stop at Escalier Casse-Cou, the city’s oldest public staircase, which offers wonderful views and a taste of local life.

For panoramic views, you’ll take a funicular ride that connects Upper and Lower Quebec, giving you a different perspective of the city and the river. The Plains of Abraham is another key stop—famous for the 1759 battle—offering both history and space to breathe.

Exploring Old Quebec

We loved the way guides bring Old Quebec’s narrow streets and steep hills alive. Walking through, it’s clear why the area feels so unique—every corner seems to tell a story. The Petit Champlain district is full of boutique shops and cafes, perfect for grabbing a quick snack or souvenir.

But what makes this part of the tour stand out is the balance—not just sightseeing, but also enough free time to explore on your own. Many reviews mention that three hours of free time gives you a decent window to wander, take photos, or enjoy a meal.

The Montmorency Falls Experience

The trip then takes you about 12 km outside the city to the spectacular Montmorency Falls. The view of the 274-foot (83-meter) high waterfall is truly breathtaking. Visitors often describe it as a sight to behold, especially when the water is frozen or flowing strongly.

A quick photo stop is included, but some reviews suggest that a longer stop would be appreciated—more time to walk around, soak in the view, or perhaps even get close to the falls if accessible. Still, the quick visit is enough to leave a lasting impression.

You’ll also get a chance to see the river and surroundings from different vantage points, making for excellent photos and memories. The falls are described as magnificent and worth the trip outside the city.

The Value and Overall Experience

At $97 per person, many find the trip good value considering the transportation, guided commentary, and multiple stops. Several reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the guides and drivers, which greatly enhances the experience.

The tour is about 12 hours long, typically starting in the morning and returning in the evening. This makes it a full day affair but also means you get to see a lot without feeling overly rushed.

Some travelers mention minor inconveniences, like delays due to mechanical issues or traffic, but overall, the trip seems well-organized and punctual. The bus rides are generally comfortable, and the stops are well timed. The fact that the guide shares interesting facts in both English and French adds a layer of authenticity and inclusiveness.

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What Could Be Better?

While many reviews praise the balance and value of the trip, a few travelers wish for more free time at Montmorency Falls. Thirty minutes can go by quickly if you want to walk around or take more photos. Also, the rest stops might sometimes have questionable facilities, as one reviewer pointed out, so packing a little extra water or snacks could improve your comfort.

Plus, a couple of reviews mentioned the small size of the bus seats, which could be uncomfortable if you’re on the taller side or prone to long bus rides. Upgrading amenities like USB charging ports might be a nice touch for future trips.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those seeking a hassle-free, guided experience that covers the essentials of Quebec City and Montmorency Falls in one day. It’s well suited for first-timers, solo travelers, or couples who prefer to relax and learn rather than navigate on their own.

If you’re someone who appreciates historical context, scenic views, and a comfortable ride, then this trip hits the mark. However, if you crave more time to explore or want a more leisurely pace, you might find the stops a tad brief.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to maximize sightseeing in a limited timeframe with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

The Sum Up

In choosing this day trip, you’re getting a balanced blend of scenic views, historical highlights, and expert guidance. The tour provides a practical way to see Quebec City’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning transportation or organizing a self-guided visit. The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which makes the experience feel personal and engaging.

The stunning Montmorency Falls, in particular, is a highlight that many reviews describe as breathtaking. Meanwhile, the visits to Old Quebec give you a taste of the city’s charm, cobbled streets, and historic ambiance—all within a manageable timeframe. The overall value, considering the transportation, guided commentary, and the sights, seems good, especially for travelers who want a comprehensive day without breaking the bank.

However, if you’re a traveler who loves to linger, take in every detail, or explore at your own pace, you might find the set schedule a bit restrictive. Still, if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and informative day trip, this experience from Gray Line Montreal fits the bill.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup from downtown Montreal hotels at the specified meeting point.

How long is the bus ride?
The trip to Quebec City takes about three hours, with a similar length on the return, making the whole day around 12 hours including stops.

What sites are visited in Quebec City?
You’ll see Place Royale, Old Quebec, Petit Champlain, Notre Dame Basilica, the Quebec Citadel, Grande-Allee, Chateau Frontenac, and the Plains of Abraham, among others.

How much time do I get at Montmorency Falls?
A photo stop is included, typically around 30 minutes, which some travelers find a bit short for exploring or soaking in the view.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the scenic nature and short walking portions may suit some families, but consider your children’s stamina for long bus rides.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Flexible booking options include reserving now and paying later.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, water, snacks if needed, and possibly a light jacket—especially if the weather is chilly or windy by the falls.

If you’re after a well-rounded, scenic, and guided glimpse of Quebec from Montreal, this tour offers a lot of value and some truly memorable sights. It’s a reliable choice for those wanting to enjoy Quebec City without the complication of planning it all themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: