Montreal Day Trips

Escape the City: Best Day Trips from Montreal

Montreal’s charm extends beyond its urban borders. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty and vibrant towns, the city offers a wealth of exciting destinations for a quick getaway.

Here are some of the best day trips from Montreal:

Nature Escapes:

  • Mont Tremblant (1 hour 45 minutes from Montreal):

    • Experience: Hike or bike in the mountains, enjoy scenic views from the top, visit the charming village, or simply relax by the lake.
    • Perfect for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Montreal Botanical Garden (within Montreal): Escape into a world of flora with themed gardens, greenhouses showcasing diverse climates, and the beautiful Biodome.

    • Experience: Explore the beauty of nature, wander through different garden exhibits, visit the biomes within the Biodome.
    • Perfect for: Those who want to stay close to the city and enjoy its natural splendor.

Historic Towns & Villages:

  • Quebec City (3 hours from Montreal): Explore Old Quebec’s cobblestone streets, historic landmarks like the Citadel and Chateau Frontenac, and experience the charm of this ancient city.
  • Montreal Botanical Garden (within Montreal): While technically within the city, the different gardens and biomes offer a unique escape into history with their traditional architecture and botanical displays.

Charming Towns & Villages:

  • Old Montreal (within Montreal): Immerse yourself in the European charm of this historic district with its cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere.

  • Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) (within Montreal): Explore a diverse collection of art spanning centuries and cultures.

  • Quebec City (within Quebec):

    • Experience: The charming city offers a glimpse into the past with its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and rich history. Visit the iconic Citadelle de Québec, stroll through the picturesque Old Montreal, or explore the historical sites of the Old Port.

  • Mont Saint-Hilaire (within 1 hour from Montreal): Hike to the top of this mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The Parc National du Mont-Saint-Bruno is a great option for a day trip into nature and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and walking.

Beyond the City Limits:

  • Laurentians (north of Montreal): Explore charming villages, enjoy scenic drives through mountains, hike or bike trails.
  • Eastern Townships (east of Montreal): Discover picturesque landscapes, wineries, cideries, and outdoor activities like apple picking and hiking in the fall foliage.

Cultural Experiences:

  • Montreal Museum of Archaeology & History (Montreal): Dive into the history of Quebec City through its archaeological finds and artifacts.
  • Musée McCord (Montreal): Explore the history of Canada through a diverse collection, including textiles, furniture, and art.

Nature Lovers’ Day Trips:

  • Parc national d’Oka (south of Montreal): Enjoy hiking, biking, and stunning views of the lake.
  • Mount Royal (within Montreal): Hike or bike to the top for panoramic city views from a variety of trails.
  • Montreal Biodome (within Montreal): Explore diverse ecosystems in this unique indoor environment.

Other Activities:

  • Montreal Botanical Garden (for its beautiful greenhouses and botanical exhibits)
  • Old Montreal:
    • Experience: Explore the historic city center, visit museums like the Musée Pointe-à-Callière or the Montreal Science Centre.

Tips for Planning Your Day Trip:

  • Consider the season: Montreal’s charm changes with the seasons. Adjust your itinerary based on what activities are available and enjoyable during the time of year you plan to travel.

  • Book in advance:

    • For popular attractions like the Biodome or festivals, booking tickets online beforehand is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.**

  • Check opening hours and transportation: Ensure that the attraction you choose for a day trip is open on the day you’re visiting and plan your transportation accordingly.

  • Bring comfortable shoes: Many of Montreal’s popular attractions outside the city involve hiking, so make sure to wear appropriate footwear.

Day Trips from Montreal (and other things to do):

  • Quebec City: Explore the charming streets of Old Quebec, visit historical landmarks like the Citadelle and the Plains of Abraham, or enjoy a scenic walk along the Dufferin Terrace.
  • Montreal Museum of Archaeology & History: This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Montreal’s history.
  • Musée de la civilisation: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Quebec City region.

Remember to tailor your day trips to your interests.

Do you want to explore nature, visit historical sites, or enjoy cultural experiences? The Montreal Tourist Information Center can help you find the perfect itinerary for a fun and memorable experience.