Private Full Day Tour from Montreal to Quebec and Montmorency Falls

A Practical Look at the Private Full Day Tour from Montreal to Quebec and Montmorency Falls

Planning a day trip to Quebec from Montreal? This private tour offers a tailored way to explore some of the city’s most iconic sights. It’s designed for travelers who want a relaxed, customizable experience with the comfort of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

What we really like about this experience is its flexibility—you’re not on a big bus with strangers, and your guide can adapt the itinerary to your interests. Plus, the tour includes the stunning Montmorency Falls, which are often overlooked but worth the visit. On the flip side, the price is on the higher end, which might make some travelers pause, especially since food and drinks aren’t included.

This tour seems best suited for those who appreciate a personalized approach, want to see major landmarks comfortably without rushing, and are interested in a mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty. If you’re craving a private, well-curated day that takes some of the planning off your shoulders, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You’re accompanied by a licensed guide who tailors the experience to your interests.
• Comfort and convenience: Private transport ensures a relaxed pace with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Rich in sights: From historic Old Quebec to Montmorency Falls, the tour covers key highlights.
• Flexible timing: The itinerary is packed but allows for some personal preferences.
• Price reflects exclusivity: At roughly $2,495 per person, it’s an investment for a personalized experience.
• Includes Montmorency Falls: Entrance tickets are covered, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs there.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This private tour starts with your choice of pickup location in Montreal, which immediately sets a relaxed tone. No need to worry about navigating or fitting into a large group—your guide and vehicle are exclusively for your party. The long day (about 12 hours) promises a comprehensive experience, but it’s good to keep in mind that it’s a full schedule and may be tiring if you’re not used to long days of sightseeing.

Exploring Old Quebec and Its Landmarks

Your first stops include Quebec City’s most iconic sites. The Parliament Hill area offers an immediate sense of grandeur with its impressive Parliament Building and the fountain in its forecourt. While only a brief stop (about 15 minutes), it’s a good photo opportunity and a chance to get a feel for the city’s political core.

Next, the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac looms large over the city skyline. Though the stop only lasts about 5 minutes, it’s enough to snap some photos and appreciate its historic charm from outside. Many travelers comment on the hotel’s postcard-worthy appearance, and it’s a must-see for first-time visitors.

The Plains of Abraham is a short stop but packed with significance. This is where the fate of New France was decided in 1759 during a pivotal battle—an essential piece of Canadian history. It’s a quiet, expansive park today, perfect for photos and imagining the historic clashes that took place.

Walking Through Old Québec’s Charm

The tour then ventures into the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Quebec, a well-preserved historic district with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and centuries-old buildings. Spending about 45 minutes here, you’ll get a taste of the architecture, the artistic vibe, and some time to explore on your own. Expect to see the Place Royale—the city’s founding spot—and the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, one of the oldest in North America, rebuilt after damages from historical conflicts.

Many travelers appreciate the guide’s insights, with one noting that their guide was very knowledgeable about the city’s layered history. It’s a good moment to grab a coffee or some local treats at the nearby cafés.

Enjoying the Scenic Dufferin Terrace and War Monuments

The Terrasse Dufferin, with its sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, offers perfect photo ops. It’s a popular spot, and you’ll see why—standing on the wooden promenade, you get a panoramic view that’s beautiful year-round.

Just nearby is the Wolfe-Montcalm Monument, an old obelisk commemorating two of Quebec’s most famous military leaders. It’s a quick stop, but adds depth to your understanding of the city’s colonial conflicts.

Cultural and Commercial Stops

You’ll get a brief visit to the Marché du Vieux-Port—a historic port area that’s lively and full of local vendors, perfect for a quick look or some souvenirs. Then, the Rue Saint-Paul offers a chance to browse antique shops and maybe pick up a unique keepsake. The tour’s pace allows you to soak in the neighborhood vibe without feeling rushed.

The Highlight: Montmorency Falls

The star of the day is the Parc de la Chute-Montmorency. At 83 meters high, these falls are taller than Niagara and are truly breathtaking. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, enough time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the natural spectacle. The entrance ticket is included, which is a nice perk considering some tours might charge extra for this. During the summer, the falls are just as stunning as in winter, when they’re often frozen but equally dramatic.

Wrapping Up in Quebec and Returning to Montreal

After the falls, you’ll head back to Montreal, with the driver dropping you at your original pickup point or a location of your choice. The return trip gives you a chance to reflect on the day and perhaps review your photos.

Is It Worth the Price?

At nearly $2,495 per person, this tour isn’t cheap. But for those who value privacy, expert guides, and a flexible itinerary, it offers a lot of quality. The included Montmorency Falls entry and the customized service make it a more streamlined and personal day compared to group tours. If you’re after a relaxed, in-depth exploration without the hassle of planning, this makes sense.

That said, the cost might be a barrier for some, especially since food and drinks aren’t included. You’ll want to budget for meals or snacks separately. Some reviews note that guides are very knowledgeable, which adds to the experience’s value, but keep in mind that this is a premium service.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a private, personalized trip. If you’re traveling with a group or loved ones and want to avoid the crowds, the private guide makes a big difference. It’s particularly good for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic views, and who enjoy a flexible schedule.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stops are generally suitable for most ages, provided everyone is comfortable with a long day of sightseeing.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 12 hours, including pickup, sightseeing, and return.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll have a private vehicle for the entire day, with pickup and drop-off in Montreal.

Are entrance tickets included?
Tickets to Montmorency Falls are covered. Other sites, like churches or museums, are free to visit but don’t include additional tickets unless specified.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour is described as customizable, the main stops are fixed. Your guide can adapt within the scope of the scheduled itinerary.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan for meals separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, but it’s generally suitable for most ages if everyone can handle the full day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around Old Quebec and Montmorency Falls.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking at historic sites, which may not be accessible for everyone. It’s best to check with the provider if mobility is a concern.

How do I book?
You can reserve through the provider’s website or contact their customer service for specific questions.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a well-rounded, flexible way to explore Quebec City’s highlights in a single day. It’s perfect if you want a personal touch, insightful guiding, and a comfortable pace. With the inclusion of Montmorency Falls, it combines natural beauty with historic charm — a good mix for a memorable trip.

The experience is best suited for travelers who don’t mind a premium price for tailored service and want to avoid the crowds, making it ideal for couples, friends, or anyone seeking a stress-free, immersive day. If you’re someone who values comfort and a customizable itinerary, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Let me know if you want more tips or alternative options for exploring Quebec—I’ve got plenty of suggestions to help you make the most of your trip.