The Best Day Trips From Montreal

Strikingly different to almost anywhere else in North America, Quebec often feels like a slice of France sandwiched in the heart of Canada. It’s the oldest French-speaking city on the continent, Quebec holds its European roots in strong esteem – while all residents are taught English in school, the majority primarily speak French. This, combined with the city’s architecture, cuisine and overall atmosphere, will transport you to continental Europe (in less than half the time).

The nation’s capital city has more going for it than simply governmental practices and gothic parliamentary buildings. Ottawa has a thriving cultural and culinary scene, with a number of museums that alone make a visit here worth it. While visiting during the (quite literally) freezing winter months may not seem appealing, this is when the city comes alive. Rather than letting the sub-zero temperatures force them into hibernation, residents celebrate the season and many even commute to work by skating down the frozen-over canal that runs through the center of the city.

In just under three hours you can drive from inner-city Montreal to the archipelago – and ultimate Canadian getaway – that is the Thousand Islands. Made up of 1,864 islands in total, there’s plenty to explore here. Culture buffs can enjoy two Unesco World Heritage sites, while outdoor enthusiasts can spend days hiking, cycling and boating around endless woodlands and waterways. Whichever you prefer, make sure you save some time to visit the area’s multitude of wineries and craft breweries.

Should you need a reminder of the sheer power of mother nature, Montmorency Falls will do the trick. With viewing options from all angles – above, below and from the side – you can get a 360-degree perspective of the falls. Should you want to take it a step further, there is a suspension bridge that allows the bold to teeter above the falls themselves, a truly awe-inspiring experience bound to give acrophobes wobbly knees. Winter only increases the magnificence of these falls: the spray freezes and creates a 30m (98ft) hill that’s popular with ice climbers and tobogganers.

This bucolic island on the St Lawrence River, lined with lush orchards and historic vineyards, is just a 15-minute drive from downtown Quebec. Once there, you’ll feel a million miles from the city. There’s a single main road running around the periphery of the island, making this a quaint getaway where you can spend the day strolling among verdant fields, picking wild fresh fruit as you go.