train travel time from montreal to quebec city

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How to Travel From Montreal to Quebec City by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Montreal is Quebec's most populous city, the financial center, and a thriving multicultural hub of activity. Quebec City, situated 158 miles (255 kilometers) up the Saint Lawrence River, is a unique and historic city as well as the provincial capital. Canada does not have high-speed trains, so whether you drive, use a bus, or take the train, it will take you about three hours to travel between Montreal and Quebec City.

If you are traveling during the busy holiday season, taking the train may be faster than driving or taking the bus because at least you won't get stuck in traffic. If you're in a rush, it's a 45-minute flight between the cities, but you should also factor in how much time it will take you to get to and from the airport. If saving money is your priority, the bus is the best choice.

Ultimately, deciding which way to get from Montreal to Quebec City comes down to two factors: price and travel style.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Montreal to Quebec City?

For the cheapest transport, taking a bus is the best option, but only if you book tickets early. Orléans Express  is the only bus company that operates regular service between Montreal and Quebec City, with one or two stops in between. If you buy your tickets early enough, the promotional price is just $25. However, these tickets quickly sell out and you may have to pay the full fare, which is about $56.

Buses leave about once an hour from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and feature reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, an onboard bathroom, and electrical outlets. Accounting for traffic, you should expect the ride to take between three to four hours. For the best prices, Orléans Express recommends booking your ticket at least eight days in advance.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Montreal to Quebec City?

Flying is the fastest way to get to Quebec City. The flight is only 45 minutes, so it's ideal for travelers who are on a tight schedule. However, once you factor in all of the additional time to get to and from the airport and navigate security, the time difference between flying and driving may not be that significant.

Air Canada , PAL Airlines and regional airline Pascan all operate direct flights between Montreal and Quebec City. One-way flights typically start around $90, but prices can skyrocket if you don't book well in advance or book with a smaller air carrier. You're more likely to find lower fares if you book at least a month or two in advance.

Most flights leave from Montréal-Trudeau International Airport , which is about a 30-minute drive or a 40-minute train ride from the Montreal Bus Terminal. However, Pascan flights are non-commercial 15-passenger planes that leave from the much smaller Saint-Hubert Longueuil Airport, so make sure you pay attention to which airport you're leaving from when buying your tickets. Tickets purchased through Pascan also tend to be more expensive than those bought with Air Canada or PAL.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

There are two main options for driving between Montreal and Quebec City, both of which take about three hours.

The slightly quicker route is along Highway 20 on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River. However, this route is dull and lacks charm. One advantage of taking this route is the authentic poutine at Fromagerie Lemaire just outside of Drummondville. Being a cheese-making operation, the cheese curds are homemade, and the french fries, of course, are fresh-cut.

The north shore route along Highway 40 is slightly more scenic , as it runs closer to the river shore and has more small towns with pretty double-spired churches. Trois-Rivieres, about halfway between Montreal and Quebec City, makes a pleasant stop on the north shore.

Be aware that driving in Quebec in winter can be challenging, especially for inexperienced drivers. Snow tires are mandatory in Quebec for a reason, so educate yourself on proper winter driving and make sure you're familiar with the rules of the road of driving in Canada .

How Long Is the Train Ride?

VIA Rail is Canada's national passenger railway and provides daily service between downtown Montreal and Quebec City. Depending on how many stops there are on your itinerary, the journey should only take between three and four hours. And while the train ride is not particularly scenic, it is comfortable, reliable, and convenient.

VIA Rail offers five different ticket classes : Escape, Economy, Economy Plus, Business, and Business Plus. Escape fares are the cheapest because they are non-refundable, while Business and Business Plus fares are refundable and include complimentary meals, lounge access, and priority boarding. No matter which fare you choose, you will be able to access and use the train's complimentary Wi-Fi.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Quebec City?

Since winter is brutally cold, the best time to visit Quebec City is in the summer. The weather is warm but rarely uncomfortably hot, and the locals take full advantage of the sunshine by hosting back-to-back festivals all season long. Of course, summer is also the tourist high season, and transportation methods all go up in price (along with hotels). Aim for visiting in May or early June to balance out good weather with fewer crowds.

If you can withstand the freezing temperatures, winter in Quebec City offers its own special charm. The nearby mountains are open for skiing and the February Winter Carnival is one of the biggest annual events in the city.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

The Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport is 9 miles (15 kilometers) from downtown Quebec City, which is about a 25-minute drive. Unlike Montreal, there's no train service from the airport, so your only public transportation option is to take the bus, which will most likely require at least one transfer and will take you over an hour. Compared to other city airports, Quebec City's Airport is not too far out of the way, and it's probably worth it to take a cab or ride-share to your hotel.

What Is There to Do in Quebec City?

With cobblestone streets, fortified walls, and castles, Quebec City is probably North America's most European city. The historic district has even been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the third oldest city on the continent.

The city's main tourist attractions are La Citadelle de Québec, the Parliament Building, and Montmorency Falls, just outside of downtown. For the best view of the city skyline, head to Pierre-Dugua-De-Mons Terrace. There are also a number of museums worth visiting such as the Museum of Civilization , the Érico Chocolate Museum , and more.

A guided tour may be a good idea if you want to make the most of your trip and learn as much as you can. The Quebec City and Montmorency Falls day trip from Montreal is a full-day sightseeing tour with a local licensed guide, highlighting Quebec City's top attractions.

Another option that allows more time in Quebec City is a two-day guided tour of Quebec City and Tadoussac, leaving from Montreal. Get a guided tour of historic Quebec City plus time to spend on your own. ​ After the scenic drive to Tadoussac, hop on board a whale watching vessel, and keep an eye out for the belugas, minkes, and humpbacks that dwell in the St. Lawrence waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quebec City is 158 miles up the Saint Lawrence River, northeast of Montreal.

There are two main options for driving between Montreal and Quebec City, both of which take about three hours. The slightly quicker way is along Highway 20 on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River, while the north shore route along Highway 40 is slightly more scenic .

Depending on how many stops there are on your itinerary, the journey from Montreal to Quebec City should only take between three and four hours.

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Good to know, top tips for finding montreal to québec city train tickets.

• 25% of our users found round-trip train tickets from Montreal to Québec City for $71 or less.
• You will generally catch the best train deals if you travel in the afternoon.
• The cheapest train from Montreal to Québec City was found 67 days before departure, on average.

FAQs when traveling from Montreal to Québec City by train

How long is a train journey to québec city from montreal.

The train journey from Montreal to Québec City takes 2h 45m on average and covers a distance of 144 miles.

What train companies travel from Montreal to Québec City?

VIA Rail Canada is the only train operator serving this route.

Book VIA Rail Canada tickets from Montreal to Québec City (round-trip)

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• Montréal to Québec City

Wondering how to get from Montréal to Québec City? The distance between Montréal and Québec City is about 250 km (155 miles) and both cities are worth a visit ! Here are the best ways to travel between Montréal and Québec City.

Montréal to Québec City by car

The most popular, and fastest, driving route between Montréal and Québec City is highway 20. The journey, depending on traffic, can take between 2h45 and 3 hours.

If you have a bit more time and prefer a more scenic route, it's recommended to take Route 138 along the north shore of the St. Lawrence River, also known as Chemin du Roy . This is a heritage route along the oldest road in the province, passing through charming villages along the way.

Montréal to Québec City by Bus

Travelling with Orléans Express bus lines between Montréal and Québec City is the best way to travel between the two cities if you are on a budget. The buses are comfortable, with Wi-Fi and electric outlets onboard. The journey takes about 3 hours and tickets start at around $35 one-way. Buses leave downtown Montréal almost every hour, from 07:00 to 21:00 and arrive at Gare du Palais in downtown Québec City.

Montréal to Québec City by train

Travelling by train from Montréal to Québec City with VIA Rail is another great way to travel. Seats are comfortable and Wi-Fi is available onboard. The trip takes about 3h15, departing from Montréal Central Station and arriving at Gare du Palais in downtown Québec City. Fares start at $40 one-way for the economy class.

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Find trains from Montreal to Québec City

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Using momondo to find train tickets from Montreal to Québec City, our users have found prices starting from $31 one-way for this week. The cost of your ticket may vary depending on when you book, so we recommend you plan early. $42 is what you can expect to pay for a train ride from Montreal to Québec City one-way.

How long is the train ride from Montreal to Québec City?

The quickest train available from Montreal will take 2h 26m to arrive in Québec City. Travel time can vary by 0h 19m, so prioritize nonstop options for the quickest arrival. VIA Rail Canada has the quickest available train to your destination.

When should I purchase the train tickets from Montreal to Québec City?

Train ticket prices from Montreal to Québec City are the same no matter when you choose to book them. Prices are $42 one-way this week and should remain stable for at least the next 3 months.

Which train companies operate between Montreal to Québec City?

You can find train tickets for VIA Rail Canada which service this route currently. VIA Rail Canada is the cheapest option recently available with prices starting at $63 round-trip.

How far is Montreal to Québec City by train?

Montreal and Québec City are 144.4 mi apart from one another, but the actual distance by train depends on the route taken. The train takes 2h 26m, typically.

VIA Rail Canada trains from Montreal to Québec City

Our best via rail canada deals on montreal to québec city train tickets, other train routes from montreal, find and compare cheap train tickets from montreal to other popular destinations on momondo, start planning your trip to québec city, get the latest québec city flight insights.

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Get an overview of the top hotels in the most popular neighborhoods of Québec City

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Trains to other cities in North America

Lost the lust for québec city check out trains to other cities in north america.

Quebec To Montreal Train

Traveling by train is undoubtedly one of the most exciting ways to visit a new place. With a comfortable train from Quebec to Montreal, you can enjoy a quick and easy trip that will take only a few hours, without worrying about anything.

Quebec to Montreal By Train

Travel Time

Approximate

Ticket Cost:

Quebec to Montreal Train Information

There are usually 3 trains per day between Quebec to Montreal, and tickets start at $105 if booked in advance.

It takes just over 3 hours 11 minutes to travel from Quebec to Montreal by train, covering 167 Miles (269 km).

Toronto to Montreal Train Schedule

Looking for train schedules from Quebec to Montreal? See the table below for information on departure times for the earliest a latest trains, the fastest trip times, and the number of departures per day.

*Check the current Quebec to Montreal timetable on the website Rail.Ninja

VIA Rail Express Train Montreal to Quebec

Montreal to quebec train classes.

There are generally two classes of service offered by VIA from Quebec to Montreal: Economy and Business. The features of each class differ based on which class you choose. The economy class is affordable and offers great comfort. Business class is the most convenient way to travel for work or pleasure because you will be served a tasty meal and have power outlets to charge your laptop. Business class isn't available on some Saturday or Sunday departures.

Economy class

Business class, book train tickets from montreal to quebec city, faq about train from montreal to quebec.

If you'd like to learn more about your trip from picturesque Quebec to captivating Montreal, we've gathered our most frequently asked questions here to help you plan your trip.

IS THERE A DIRECT TRAIN BETWEEN QUEBEC AND MONTREAL ?

In about 3,5 hours, VIA Rail trains run directly to Montreal Central Station from Quebec Gare du Palais, reaching 100 mph!

Train schedules for Quebec to Montreal are available through Rail.Ninja . You can choose departure dates that coincide with your travel plans, and book months and years in advance!

Toronto to Montreal Train Map

Popular routes, montreal to toronto train, montreal to quebec train, quebec to ottawa train, ottawa to quebec train.

What’s The Best Way To Travel From Montreal To Quebec City

Posted on Published: March 1, 2023  - Last updated: April 3, 2024

Categories North America , Québec , Travel

Montreal is only about 255 km (160 miles) away from Quebec City, making it one of the easier trips to make from Montreal . But because they’re so close, there are also a lot of options for travelling between both cities.

You can drive, take the bus, the train, or even fly from Montreal to Quebec City. At one point it was even possible to take a boat down the St. Lawrence from Montreal to Quebec City!

But with so many options, how do you know which one is the best for your trip? I’ll go in depth about each mode of transportation between Montreal and Quebec City. At the end of the day, it tends to come down to a question of flexibility vs. budget .

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

How To Get From Montreal To Quebec City: A Comparison

Here’s a table comparing each mode of transportation. For more detail, continue reading below.

How To Drive From Montreal To Quebec City

Driving from Montreal to Quebec City is the cheapest and most flexible option . This is especially true if you already have a car .

Total drive time between both cities is about 2 hours and 45 minutes … however … it never ends up under 3 hours. So although it seems like the fastest option at first glance, it isn’t actually the case.

There’s always traffic somewhere between Montreal and Quebec City… So always expect the drive to take longer than the GPS says.

I’ve started the drive midweek, on the weekends, at all hours of the day and there’s always traffic somewhere. I guess I haven’t tried leaving in the middle of the night yet!

But if you drive to Quebec City, you will have full flexibility on when you want to leave. And you’ll have your car when you’re in Quebec City. So depending on what you’re planning on doing in Quebec City, having a car once you’re there may be more or less important to you.

On the negative side of driving to Quebec City, it is the most tiring (and potentially most stressful) model of transportation (for the driver anyway!). They obviously cannot just fall asleep for the next three hours.

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Don’t Have A Car? Rent A Car In Montreal

If you don’t have a car, you can always rent a car to drive from Montreal to Quebec City. This will make driving a bit less budget friendly, but you will maintain some of that flexibility.

You will have to add in some extra time to get to the car rental to pick up the car.

I always like renting with Enterprise (plus, if you make an account with them you’ll get a discount – I tend to get about 5% off my booking now). 

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Or you can also sign up with CommunAuto (Quebec’s ride sharing program).

Dealing With Parking In Quebec City

If you’re driving to Quebec City from Montreal, you’ll need to find parking in Quebec City.

There are quite a few parking lots in Quebec City where you can park a few hours at a time up to an entire month!

For shorter stays, park just outside the Old Town in Stationnement SPAQ – Honore-Mercier / Dauphine . It’s an underground parking lot in Place D’Youville. You’ll be very centrally located here!

If you’re planning on a longer stay in Quebec City, a more affordable option is to park a bit further from Old Town. We found long term parking at the Dorchester Parking Lot in the St. Roch.

Dorchester Parking is a large outdoor lot (which I prefer over the indoor parking garages, although indoor is always nice in the winter!), but it’s about a 20 minute walk from Old Town. We were easily able to come and go and there were always spots. Plus they offer discounts for longer stays .

Routes To Drive From Montreal To Quebec City

There are two routes that you can take from Montreal to Quebec City, one on either side of the St. Lawrence River. It’s whether you take highway 40 or highway 20 . 

The route you take will ultimately depend on how much traffic there is on either highway. We always prefer taking highway 40 because it’s just a bit more of an interesting drive.

Although, more often than not, it’s faster to take the 20 . We don’t love driving on the 20 – it’s a 2 lane highway that’s quite straight, flat, and boring. You’ll also have to cross the bridge back over the St. Lawerence to reach Quebec City.

But Do You Actually Need A Car In Quebec City?

Depending on what your plans are in Quebec City, you don’t really need a car once you’re there . If you want to stay within Old Town, then everything you want to see is within walking distance of one another.

Even if you want to explore some of the surrounding neighbourhoods (like St. Roch) they’re easily walkable from Old Town. In fact, we lived in St. Roch and walked everywhere! We would only take our car out on the weekends.

If you want to explore the outskirts of Quebec City (like Montmorency Falls) you still don’t need a car. There are shuttles, and even organized tours (like this one on Viator that takes you to Montmorency Falls , or this one that brings you to Île D’Orleans !).

Although it’s always nice to have a car when you’re exploring a new city, sometimes it’s just not worth the hassle.

Québec City Things To Do: Book A Tour With Viator

Quebec City Walking Tour →

Guided tour of the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec →

Biking tour from Quebec City to Montmorency Falls →

See more Québec City organized tours with Viator .

Driving Alternative: RideShare To Quebec City From Montreal

Ride sharing is when you get a ride with someone who is already going to Quebec City. There are typically a lot of drivers to choose from as it’s a common route.

It’s a more affordable option, and perhaps offers a bit more flexibility than the next few travel options (like the bus or train).

You won’t be able to rely on a specific schedule, and there’s always a safety (and awkwardness) risk.

There are a few ride sharing websites that you can check, a popular site is Poparide . The cost depends on the driver, but it can start at $30 for one way. I like Poparide because it works like Uber, where the drivers have ratings. 

There is also a new Quebec company for ride sharing within Quebec called Eva . Perhaps it’s a bit more reliable, however it is also more expensive.

Taking The Bus From Montreal To Quebec City 

The bus is a stress free way to get to Quebec City from Montreal. It takes the same amount of time as driving (no surprises there), but now you don’t have the stress of driving . You can sleep the entire way there!

The bus from Montreal to Quebec City is through Orlean Express . There are 12 scheduled departures from Montreal to Quebec City every day of the week. They leave as early as 7:00 A.M. and as late as 9:30 PM.

There are 13 departures from Quebec City to Montreal and leave between 6:30 A.M. and 7:30 P.M.

So it’s not too bad for flexibility! You have a lot of departures to choose from.

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For cost, it can range between $40 to $65. The price will vary based on time of day, and how far in advance you book. You might be able to score a cheaper ticket – these will be the promo seats .

Don’t forget you do have to add extra travel time to get to the bus station in Montreal and from the bus station in Quebec City…

Getting To & From The Bus Stations?

Thankfully both bus stations are very centrally located in Montreal and Quebec City

In Montreal, it’s at the Gare d’autocars de Montréal on Berri street. This is across the street from Berri-UQAM metro which connects to three metro lines . This makes it very accessible. There are also several bus routes that stop here.

In Quebec City, the bus drops you off at the Bus terminal at the Gare du Palais (the train station). This is only a 15-20 minute walk the centre of Old Town.

Related Best Restaurants In Quebec City & Quebecois Food To Try

Montreal To Quebec City Train Tips

The train is very similar to the bus in several ways. They have the same flexibility in terms of following scheduled departure time. It’s still a very relaxing ride (if not more so on the train!).

The bus and train for the most part take about the same amount of time. Although, the train can vary between 3 hours and 15 minutes and 3 hours and 45 minutes .

The cost can be almost the same as well. In fact, sometimes it might even be cheaper to take the Montreal to Quebec City train . The cheapest seats start at only $42… but it can go all the way up to $220. So there’s quite a big range.

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They do however only offer a limited number of seats at their cheapest fare. More likely than not, it will cost you closer to $90 to take the train.

The Montreal to Quebec City train line also has fewer departure times. From Montreal, the train leaves 5 times between 6:30 A.M. and 6:30 P.M.

On the weekend, there’s one less departure, so the earliest you can leave is at 9:00 A.M.

The biggest benefit of the train is that you don’t have to worry about longer travel times by getting stuck in traffic. Plus, it will most likely be more comfortable than taking the bus.

The train from Montreal to Quebec City is operated through Via Rail .

Getting To & From The Train Station 

When you take the train from Montreal to Quebec City, you also have to take into account your travel time to get to and from the train stations.

In Montreal, the train station is at Place Bonaventure. This is in the heart of downtown on the orange metro line. But it’s also not too far of a walk from the green line (either Peel or McGill metro stations).

P.S. If you’re flying in to Montreal first though, there is also a train station in Dorval (which is at the airport).

In Quebec City, the trains arrive at the Gare du Palais – which is the same place as where the bus arrives.

From the train station in Quebec City, it’s about a 15 minute walk to the heart of Old Town Quebec.

Flying From Montreal To Quebec City

If you’re really in a time crunch, you might want to consider flying – and yes, there are flights from Montreal to Quebec City.

It’s a bit shocking considering it’s less than three hours to drive. A nonstop flight is under one hour … but of course you have to add a bit more to that itinerary.

First, you have to arrive early to the airport. Because it’s a flight within Canada, it’ recommended to arrive 2 hours before departure. In the past, you only needed to arrive an hour before departure but not anymore. Which brings us right back to the 3 hour travel time . Check updated recommended arrival times.

And that doesn’t even include travel time to and from the airport… which is even longer because neither airport is in the city centre .

Plus, with flying, there are a few more things to consider – like now you have limits on what you can bring . This is probably the most stressful way to get from Montreal to Quebec City.

And let’s not forget about the cost of this flight which will put you out anywhere between $150 to $200 for one way. Or the possibility of cancellations and overbooked flights! Plus, this is the least flexible option with only 4 departure times during the day (through Air Canada).

There were up to 10 departures (all nonstop flights) but they were with smaller airlines (some of which I’ve never heard of!).

Related 40 Things To Do In Quebec City: Top Attractions To Hidden Gems

How To Get To & From The Airport

Airport transfers in montreal.

The airport in Montreal is in Dorval… in the West Island . That’s about a 30 minute drive from downtown.

You can take a taxi or Uber to the airport. Or there’s a bus (the 747 express) which takes about 45 to 70 minutes from Berri-UQAM metro. It runs 24/7 though.

You can also opt to go to Lionel-Groulx metro station which shortens the ride time to 25 to 35 minutes, but it only runs during peak hours.

See all your options to travel to and from the Montreal airport here .

Airport Transfers In Quebec City

In Quebec City, you’ll be in a similar boat once you arrive at the airport. It’s about a 30 minute drive to Old Town Quebec.

There are two bus routes that stop at the airport and go to downtown Quebec City – the 76 and 80.

Alternatively, they’ve set up a ride sharing program called Eva that will take you downtown with a trusted service. See an estimate for cost .

You can see all your airport transfer options .

Alternative: Book An Organized Tour From Montreal

A very simple alternative to taking going by yourself to Quebec City from Montreal is to book an organized tour.

There are several organized tours from Viator that go from Montreal to Quebec City for the day.

By booking an organized tour, you don’t have to deal with the hassle of travel. Everything is figured out for you, from transportation to the schedule for the day.

The most popular tour from Viator takes you from Montreal to Quebec City, and even has a stop at Montmorency Falls.

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Resources To Travel From Montreal To Quebec City

Read more related posts.

• The Realities Of A Day Trip To Quebec City From Montreal
• 40 Things To Do In Quebec City: Top Attractions To Hidden Gems
• Easy Quebec City Day Trip: The Levis Quebec Ferry & More
• How To Go On A Perfect Day Trip From Montreal To Ottawa

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mike kaufmann

Monday 28th of August 2023

Such a thorough article filled with relevant information! Thank you so much - my wife and I were debating renting a car from Montreal for our upcoming trip to QC and this answered many questions.

Friday 22nd of September 2023

Awesome glad I could help :D Hope you enjoy Montreal and Quebec City!

Accommodations

Montreal and Quebec City Getaway by Rail

5 days / 4 nights

Time on train

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May – October

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Explore Montreal and Quebec City by train

Discover the rich history and vibrant culinary scene in two of French Canada's largest cities - Montreal and Quebec City. Stay in elegant hotels and experience a journey on The Corridor train.

Embrace the ‘joie de vivre’ of Montreal

Fall in love with the old-world elegance of quebec city, take the corridor train through the scenic quebec countryside, dine at award-winning restaurants and relax in upscale, boutique hotels, choose from walking tours, foodie tours, sightseeing tours, and more, top experiences and features.

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Discover the culture and architecture of Montreal — a juxtaposition of old and new. Venture out and discover its upscale shops, eateries and historic hidden gems. 

Explore Montreal's must-see areas and attractions on this fully guided tour. Visit Mount Royal, Old Montreal, the Notre-Dame Basilica, St. Joseph's Oratory and more.

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If you have time this evening, discover the artwork of the Notre-Dame Basilica through multimedia installations. A combination of light, orchestral music, and stunning architecture provides an unforgettable experience. 

VIA Rail - Montreal to Quebec City

Board VIA Rail's The Corridor train, bound for Quebec City. 

• Transfer to Train Station

Relax in your spacious business class seat as you follow the St. Lawrence River from Montreal to Quebec City. Meals and full-bar service are included onboard the train. 

• Transfer from Train Station

Discover Quebec City

Take to the cobblestone streets and explore the quaint neighbourhoods of Lower and Upper Quebec. With its rich history and ancient architecture, you will fall in love with this city. 

Explore the cobblestone streets of fortified Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site.  

On this guided walking tour, treat yourself to a behind-the-scenes experience of Old Quebec City and discover its culinary history and gastronomy. 

Discover Quebec City's history on a guided sightseeing bus tour. See the Plains of Abraham, the Château Frontenac, the Notre-Dame Basilica, and more.

Quebec City Departure

Too soon, your wonderful experience in French Canada comes to an end — to be relived in memory over many years. 

• Private Transfer to Quebec City Airport

See Full Itinerary

Arrive in Montreal ...

VIA Rail - Montreal ...

Discover Quebec Cit ...

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Like this trip? Get more details with a sample itinerary:

• Day-tour options and descriptions;
• Departure dates;
• Suggestions for personalizing your trip.

Hotel Bonaparte

Built in 1886, Hotel Bonaparte is a historic gem in the centre of Old Montreal. The city’s bustling shops, restaurants, and museums are close by. Gaze out over cobblestone streets, church spires, and pretty gardens from one of the beautifully appointed guestrooms.

Auberge Saint-Antoine

Located in the heart of Québec City’s Old Port, the Auberge Saint-Antoine is close to the fortifications, museums, and bustling streets of the Petit Champlain district. Discover the archaeological artifacts on display in the hotel’s common areas, or taste farm-to-table cuisine at the restaurant.

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

Said to be the world’s most photographed hotel, the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is an iconic landmark that overlooks the St. Lawrence River and Old Québec City. Experience the hotel’s enchanting history on a guided tour, then unwind with a relaxing spa treatment.

Personalize This Itinerary

Here are some of the most popular ways to personalize this journey.

Celebrate an occasion

Honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, or the fulfillment of a lifelong goal, our team is ready to make it a celebration to remember. From arranging a bottle of champagne to putting together a helicopter picnic for two on top of a mountain at sunset, we're ready to make your dreams a reality.

VIA Rail Corridor Train

The Corridor Train is primarily a commuter service, but also provides travellers with a seamless and scenic way to move between Ontario and Quebec. For the best experience we recommend Business Class, which include meal and complimentary beverage service at your seat.

Explore Charlevoix region

Just a short drive from Quebec City is the Charlevoix region — a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The region boasts an array of exciting experiences: farm-to-table cuisine, art galleries, whale watching, hiking, biking, and more. We can arrange a day tour or a multi-day excursion depending on your timeframe.

Travel in a private group

Exploring with friends and family is the best way to create lasting memories and reconnect. Organizing once-in-a-lifetime trips for families and small groups of friends is a particular passion for us. Ask us about how our itineraries can be customized to work for your group.

What Our Customers Say

We could not have been more satisfied with our trip.

Wonderful planning and attention to detail. We didn't have to worry about a thing. Everything was organized down to the last detail. Everyone who was to meet us was there ahead of...   read more

Roberta and Ashley

This is how vacation planning is meant to be

This was our first visit to Canada. Fresh Tracks customized our trip and helped us make unforgettable memories. This is how vacation planning is meant to be. Thank you! I was very...   read more

Savannah and Johnathon

The ability to customize the trip was great!

Our trip was enjoyable, interesting and nicely paced. No need to be up at the crack of dawn to be on a bus by 7:00 or 8:00. The tour start times and departures allowed for a leisur...   read more

John and Carole

Could not have asked for better service throughout

I could not have asked for better service throughout the process. During our initial phone conversation, Eva listened to our preferences (we are quiet people who like history/liter...   read more

Carrie and Dean

Every accommodation and transfer was made with ease

Our trip was fantastic. Fresh Tracks Canada made the trip with my 9 year old grandson seamlessly wonderful. Every accommodation and transfer was made with ease. We both had a marve...   read more

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Trains from Quebec City to Montreal

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Trains leaving tomorrow

Train quebec city to montreal: trip overview.

Please note, this information is subject to change.

Train Companies

Passengers frequently commend the clean and comfortable conditions, including ample legroom and reclining seats. The staff is often noted for being friendly, helpful, and attentive. Many reviews highlight a smooth boarding process with easy booking options. However, some travelers experienced minor delays or confusion during check-in but still appreciated the overall service quality provided by VIA Rail.

VIA Rail Quebec City Montreal recent customer reviews

There was a 7.5 hour delay. We appreciated staff being there to personally answer questions. They also bought us pizza and helped us get the taxi to our hotel

Enjoyed the benefits of business class - private waiting area, complimentary beverages - as well as the great food and beverage service in the rail car. Did not enjoy the 30-minute delay for the 2:57 pm train from Quebec City to Montreal.

Jonathan S.

There was some confusion checking in, as no instructions were provided when purchasing the ticket and signage was unclear, but everyone was very nice and helpful. The journey in business class was very comfortable.

Quebec City to Montreal Trains

Busbud shows you the best train ticket fares and train schedules so you can easily plan and book a trip by train from Quebec City to Montreal.

We make sure you can find a train service from Quebec City to Montreal from the most reliable train companies operating this trip.

Whether it is train tickets or first class train tickets going to Montreal from Quebec City, we help you find what you're looking for based on how much of a budget you have.

Where are the popular train stations and stops in Quebec City and Montreal?

Frequently asked questions for your trip Quebec City - Montreal

How much does a train ticket from quebec city to montreal cost.

The average train ticket price from Quebec City to Montreal is $44. The best way to find train tickets from Quebec City to Montreal is to book your tickets as early as possible. Prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches, so book in advance to secure the best prices!

How long is the train trip from Quebec City to Montreal?

A train trip between Quebec City and Montreal is around 3h 22m, although the fastest train will take about 3h 8m. This is the time it takes to travel the 145 miles that separates the two cities.

How many daily trains are there between Quebec City and Montreal?

The number of trains from Quebec City to Montreal can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 8. Some trains are direct while others have layovers. Simplify your train trip from Quebec City to Montreal by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.

Which train companies travel from Quebec City to Montreal?

When taking the train from Quebec City to Montreal, you can travel comfortably and safely with VIA Rail Canada.

What are the best sights and things to do in Montreal?

Once in Montreal, you can exploring the city. The top sights and things to do are Mount Royal, Laurentian Mountains, Montreal History Centre, Montreal Botanical Garden & Green Spaces, Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Quebec City to Montreal, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $40 to $217 for a train ticket from Quebec City to Montreal based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $40 which is on 2024-09-16.

About Train Travel

Train travel tips.

Do you like to go fast? With high-speed trains going faster than 300 km/h on certain routes, the time will fly by. Taking a train between Quebec City and Montreal is also a great way to travel to arrive in the city centre and save more time for your stay in Montreal.

Regional train? High-speed train? Whichever train to Montreal you take, you’ll help reduce the environmental impact and carbon footprint of your trip. As you watch the landscapes unfold before your eyes, you can tell yourself that with this choice, you are making sure they remain protected.

By choosing the train between Quebec City and Montreal, you emit up to 30 times less CO2 than for the same journey made by plane or car!

Create your own real life musical score by curating a personalized train travel playlist - the perfect accompaniment to your bus ride from Quebec City to Montreal.

Did you know?

You can find dogs as passengers on the trains of Moscow, where there is a large number of stray dogs. Over time, the dogs have learned the inner workings of the rail system and it is not uncommon to find one traveling between the city and the suburbs.

The longest train journey in the world is between Europe and Asia. This long journey starts from Porto in Portugal and crosses the whole European continent to reach Hanoi in Vietnam in 12 days while traveling more than 17,000 km.

Some trains in Sweden can recover more than a fifth of the energy they use by braking. This is especially true with ore trains as they descend from Narvik to Kiruna.

Will you be returning to Quebec City by train?

Top traveled train routes.

Trains from Toronto to Montreal

Trains from Montreal to Toronto

Trains from Montreal to Quebec City

Trains from Montreal to Ottawa

Trains from Toronto to London

Trains from Toronto to Niagara Falls

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Popular Trains Connecting Quebec City

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Lack of food, water and toilets: Via Rail passengers fume after being stranded 10 hours in Quebec

Canada's transport minister to meet with via rail leadership this week.

Via Rail passengers demand accountability after 10 hours stuck on train | Canada Tonight

Social sharing.

Via Rail passengers are speaking out after their train from Montreal to Quebec City broke down, leaving them stranded for about 10 hours over the long weekend with a lack of food, water and access to a toilet for prolonged intervals.

Rudy El Maghariki says what he expected to be a three-and-a-half-hour trip on Saturday became a 14-hour ordeal.

"We were just tired. We were hungry. We were thirsty. We couldn't go out," he said, saying it became almost impossible to breathe after so many hours without fresh air. 

Like many others on train 622, El Maghariki expected to arrive in Quebec City around noon for a weekend visit. But he says the train came to a stop about 45 minutes away from the destination. 

He said staff members initially told passengers the train was having some mechanical and technical issues, but he said after hours, there was still no update — and people were getting upset and restless. 

"There was no communication … nobody was telling us anything," El Maghariki said.

Via Rail confirmed that passengers were stuck for 10 hours on Saturday when a train broke after experiencing two consecutive mechanical issues. The company said the situation was particularly complex because the train was on single-track territory in an isolated area and no buses were available in the region to offer alternative transportation during the long weekend. 

Electricity, air conditioning and washrooms were shut down at times to allow for repairs and coupling with another train, the company said.

In an interview Monday afternoon, Via Rail CEO Mario Péloquin apologized for "all the inconvenience that was caused."

He said the situation "is not acceptable from a customer service point of view and the values that we have at Via Rail."

Péloquin said the initial cause of the delay was damage to the train's brake system, which caused the air brakes to engage and stopped the train as a fail-safe measure.

Engineers found a way to fix the issue, however the sophistication of the system detected less than optimal conditions of the train and stopped the engine again, he said. 

"It was a pure, relatively simple mechanical failure that snowballed into, you know, a 10-hour delay for the passengers," Péloquin said. 

He insisted that passengers were offered beverages and snacks throughout the day, noting that there were "issues with the food" for about 90 minutes, and that a meal was delivered on board with additional water in the evening.

El Maghariki, however, said five hours into the delay, he still had to pay $6.50 for a bagel for his sister. 

"It's not about the value, it's about the principle," he said. 

Eventually, staff began handing out free snacks and water — but supplies quickly ran out. 

'I have this much water left' 

Vancouver resident Carmel Tanaka, who was on board the train to Quebec City to meet a cousin for the first time, says at one point, a staff member came around showing passengers a jug with a limited amount of water. 

"'I have this much water left. Are you really dehydrated? If so, I can give this to you,'" she recalls them saying. "That's how dire the situation was." 

Tanaka, who has a master's degree in emergency and disaster management, says everything that went wrong was "textbook" poor emergency preparedness. 

"I said [to a staff member], 'Before the tide changes and people start to fight back, you need to feed us, you need to order pizza now. You need to order buses, Ubers, whatever you need,'" she said. 

But frustration had already started to boil over. A video posted to social media shows a Via Rail employee snatching a passenger's phone from his hands. The passenger appears to be filming in the aisle as he's told to sit down by the employee. 

Péloquin said Via Rail is investigating that incident and says appropriate measures will be taken following a review.

"I really, sincerely apologize for what we've seen on the video, [which] looks like not the kind of thing we want to to do," he said. 

Around 8:30 p.m. — more than nine hours since the train stopped — staff members bought pizza, but not enough for the whole train, El Maghariki said.

• Video Via Rail apology 'not enough,' says passenger stranded during the holidays

Tanaka said two rows in front of her, an individual with diabetes reached a point where they needed medical attention. She said an ambulance was called and they were escorted off the train.

"They were trying to fix [the train] instead of finding solutions," she said. 

"I mean if you can call a pizza delivery, you can also call shuttles and buses, you can do other things and you can figure out a way to get us to our next destination." 

On Sunday, Federal Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez said he is determined to get to the bottom of the delay.

On Tuesday evening, a spokesperson for the minister said in a statement that Rodriguez met with VIA Rail executives and told them the way passengers were treated was unacceptable.

"To make sure this doesn't happen again, VIA Rail has been asked to provide an independent report on what happened, improve training for their employees and review their breakdown procedures," the statement said, with those improvements including keeping passengers better informed, ensuring they have access to better services and providing alternative options for reaching their designation quickly.

Unusable credit for ride home

The fire department was eventually called to help transfer passengers from one train to another, with passengers reaching their destination 10 hours late.

In a statement on Sunday, Via Rail said it offers its deepest apologies for the inconvenience caused to passengers and will provide a full refund to anyone affected.

Passengers say the company is providing a cash refund equivalent to to the price of their one-way ticket. A credit for the same amount to buy a future trip will also be provided, but it can't be applied to an existing ticket. 

"So you cannot use that credit to let's say go back [to Montreal]," El Maghariki said, saying the financial compensation is already too little. 

Péloquin said passengers are encouraged to contact Via Rail's call centre if they are not happy with the compensation they've received. 

• Via Rail apologizes to passengers stranded for 6 hours near Montreal

Still, El Maghariki planned to travel back to Montreal with his pre-booked ticket on Via Rail Monday, but he says he's not yet recovered from his trip up. He planned to stock up on food and water just in case. 

Tanaka, who also already purchased her return trip, wished Via Rail had made an exception to their policy to allow people to use the credit for those returning to Montreal. 

Or, "they should have paid for my poutine when I got to Quebec City," she said with a laugh. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Digital reporter

Sabrina Jonas is a digital reporter with CBC Montreal. She was previously based at CBC Toronto after graduating from Toronto Metropolitan University's School of Journalism. Sabrina has a particular interest in social justice issues and human interest stories. Drop her an email at [email protected]

With files from the Canadian Press, Rowan Kennedy and Paula Dayan-Perez

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Eastern Canada by Rail

11 day eastern canada train tour with via rail.

from Toronto to Halifax with Ottawa, Montreal & Quebec City

Explore Canada’s cultural cities with this relaxing tour of Eastern Canada by rail. Highlights of this journey of exploration include: the “Centre of the Universe” in Toronto; our nation’s capital in Ottawa; trendy, chic Montreal; the European flare of Quebec City; an overnight train journey along the St Lawrence River to the maritime city of Halifax on Canada’s East Coast. Every component of this tour can be customized to suit your specific needs and desires.

Travel Dates in 2024 & 2025

2024 start dates.

Starting on Sundays and Wednesdays and Fridays

2025 Start Dates

Travel summary.

• Day 1: Toronto Arrival - overnight in Toronto
• Day 2: Toronto Sightseeing - overnight in Toronto
• Day 3: Niagara Falls Sightseeing Tour - overnight in Toronto
• Day 4 : VIA Rail from Toronto to Ottawa - overnight in Ottawa
• Day 5 : VIA Rail from Ottawa to Montreal - overnight in Montreal
• Day 6: Montreal Day Tour - overnight in Montreal
• Day 7 : VIA Rail from Montreal to Quebec City - overnight in Quebec City
• Day 8 : Quebec City sightseeing - overnight on "The Ocean" Train to Halifax
• Day 9 : Full day on board "The Ocean" Train to Halifax - overnight in Halifax
• Day 10 : Peggy’s Cove Tour - overnight in Halifax
• Day 11 : Halifax Departure

What's Included

• VIA Rail from Toronto to Ottawa
• VIA Rail from Ottawa to Montreal
• VIA Rail from Montreal to Halifax
• 9 nights hotel accommodation
• Toronto Hop On, Hop Off City Bus Tour
• Niagara Falls Sightseeing Day Tour
• Ottawa Hop On, Hop Off City Bus Tour
• Montreal Hop On, Hop Off City Bus Tour
• Quebec City Hop On, Hop Off City Bus Tour
• Peggy's Cove Sightseeing day tour (mid-June through October)
• Independent Tour

Not Included

• Transportation from the Toronto airport (available, please ask for details)
• Transportation to the Halifax airport (available, please ask for details)
• Rail station transfers between Toronto VIA Rail Station and Toronto Hotel
• Rail station transfers between Ottawa VIA Rail Station and Ottawa Hotel
• Rail station transfers between Montreal VIA Rail Station and Montreal Hotel
• Rail station transfers between Halifax VIA Rail Station and Halifax Hotel
• Meals, other than onboard train
• Gratuities for rail, hotel and transfer staff
• Canadian 5% sales tax

Daily Itinerary

Day 1 - arrival in toronto.

Arrive in Toronto, Canada’s largest city and the capital of Ontario. Once you’ve checked into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours! We’ve included passes to the CN Tower and a two day Hop on/ Hop off pass for you to use at your leisure. Spend the next three nights in your downtown Toronto hotel.

Day 2 - Toronto Sightseeing

Build your own Toronto experience with the freedom of our hop-on-hop-off city tour aboard a double decker bus. Let the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides educate you on the fun facts and history of Toronto as they take you through the city with stops at/near all major hotels in the downtown area. Stops include Chinatown, the CN Tower, the Distillery District, the Royal Ontario Museum and more. The ticket also includes a free boat tour (available seasonally) of the Toronto Harbour and Islands.

Day 3 - Niagara Falls Sightseeing Tour

This is a full day tour to Niagara Falls. Travel through wine country where Niagara Falls, one of the Seven Great natural wonders of North America, is waiting for you! Board the Hornblower boat and feel the mist on your face as you cruise along the roaring base of Horseshoe Falls. You’ll also get the chance to experience the falls from above, standing within feet of its lip.

End of the day tour with a visit to Niagara on the Lake, a pretty little village overflowing with flowers and home to the Shaw Festival of Theatre. Return to Toronto in the early evening.

Day 4 - VIA Rail in Business Class from Toronto to Ottawa

Board VIA Rail’s Corridor train en route to the Capital of Canada. Ottawa is home to the Prime Minister and Parliament Hill. Within a short walk from your hotel, you can tour the iconic Parliament Hill, visit many of the country’s national museums, or walk along the World Heritage Site of Rideau Canal.

Day 5 - VIA Rail in Business Class from Ottawa to Montreal

Spend the morning and early afternoon in Ottawa. You can brush up on your French as you travel in Business Class along VIA Rail’s Corridor as you depart Ottawa in the late afternoon. Say bonjour as you cross into the culturally-rich province of Quebec and enter Montreal, the second largest French-speaking city in the world. You can wine and dine as you wish tonight whether that’s at a high-end restaurant or snacking on some poutine—Canada’s favorite food! Spend tonight in your Montreal hotel room.

Day 6 - Montreal Day Tour

Spend the day on a tour that will take you to some of Montreal’s most famous attractions. These include; Old Montreal, the Notre Dame Basilica and Olympia Park.

Day 7 - VIA Rail from Montreal to Quebec City

A morning departure on VIA Rail’s Corridor will give you a full day in the historic city of Quebec. Quebec City is located on the Saint Lawrence River and is the only fortified city north of Mexico. The narrow cobble stone streets and old stone buildings are a truly remarkable site.

Day 8 - Free time in Quebec City. Overnight aboard "The Ocean" Train to Halifax

A free day to explore Quebec City. You may wish to do a guided tour, rent a car or a bicycle and explore the countryside. It’s beautiful. Later, you’ll board “The Ocean” train and head out for the Maritimes! Settle into your bed aboard the train and be rocked to sleep.

Day 9 - "The Ocean" train to Halifax

As the sun rises, you’ll be travelling eastwards through New Brunswick and on towards Nova Scotia. You’ll pass through rural villages on your way to the east coast of Canada. Enjoy some spectacular views on board. Breakfast and lunch are included aboard the train before your late afternoon arrival in Halifax.

Day 10 - Peggy’s Cove

Depart from Halifax and head to Peggy’s Cove, located on the banks of the Atlantic Ocean for views of Nova Scotia’s unique coastline and to learn about the history and culture! The fishing village has long been a backdrop for tales of pirates and shipwrecks, and you will have some free time to explore the rocks, walking trails, village, and many quaint boutiques and gift shops in the cove.

Day 11 - Halifax Departure

Your tour ends when you check out of your hotel. Thank you for traveling with Canada Rail Vacations!

11 Day Tour Pricing 2024 & 2025

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*Book your 2025 Canada Rail Vacation now and receive 2024 pricing for 2025 travel **You’ll also receive complimentary hotel room upgrades where available

Please contact us for additional details.

Pricing Details:

• Prices are per person in Canadian Dollars and are subject to an additional 5% Canadian sales tax.
• Prices are based on double occupancy. For single and triple sharing, please request a quote .
• To qualify for any current Specials , please request a quote .
• Upgrades to Premium hotel rooms (5 stars) and Private Tours/Transfers are available. Please  request a quote .

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Over 200 Via Rail passengers stranded for 10 hours due to mechanical issues

Two consecutive mechanical issues were the cause of a delay from Montreal to Quebec City on Saturday, according to Via Rail. Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press

Carmel Tanaka’s trip from Montreal to Quebec City was supposed to take around 3½ hours but it was 14 hours before she finally arrived at the station.

Ms. Tanaka was one of 214 passengers stranded for 10 hours on a Via Rail journey on Saturday, and for some of the time she and her fellow passengers did not have access to working washrooms or water.

“It was pretty bonkers,” said Ms. Tanaka, who was travelling to meet a long-lost cousin.

Two consecutive mechanical issues were the cause of the delay, according to Via Rail, which added that no other options for moving passengers existed. Shuttle buses, for example, were unavailable in the region and exiting a train – away from a station – is dangerous and a last resort, it said.

The company said passengers were offered beverages and snacks throughout the day, and that a meal was delivered toward the end of the trip. But there was a 90-minute period when the engine was shut off because of repair attempts. During this time, there was no running water, no air conditioning and the toilets did not flush.

As the delay went on, the irritation built, said Ms. Tanaka, adding that it hit a boiling point when an employee snatched a phone from a passenger.

Eventually another train did arrive, at which point the fire department was called to help with the transfer.

Ms. Tanaka said the situation was not “life or death” but that it was “extremely frustrating” to be trapped in the carriage, sitting for hours unable to stretch her legs or go outside.

She said she was also upset because she was only going to be in Quebec City for two days. “I missed a whole day to spend with my cousin.”

On Sunday, federal Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez said he will meet with Via Rail leadership to learn about how the delay happened.

“This is unacceptable and we will get to the bottom of this,” Mr. Rodriguez said on X. “I’m meeting with VIA’s leadership this week. Passengers deserve better.”

Via Rail has offered full refunds and a 100-per-cent travel credit to passengers aboard train 622.

“VIA Rail understands this unfortunate situation impacted the travel plan of its passengers and offers its deepest apologies for the inconvenience caused,” the company said in a statement to The Globe and Mail.

The event was extremely challenging but to be expected, said Jonathan English, a fellow at Marron Institute of Urban Management at New York University. Mr. English lives in Toronto.

Only 59 per cent of Via’s trains were on time in 2023, according to reporting from The Globe. Mr. English said this is partly because much of Via Rail’s infrastructure is dated and prone to mechanical failure. For example, a few of the trains on the Montreal to Quebec route are 50 to 70 years old, he said.

Minimizing delays will require updating the fleet, said Mr. English, and fortunately this work is under way. In 2022, Via Rail started to deploy a new fleet of trains for the corridor between Quebec City and Windsor.

However, while this should cut down on delays caused by mechanical issues, other delays on Canada’s passenger rail lines will continue, said Barry Prentice, a transportation professor at the University of Manitoba.

This is largely because, unlike passenger rail service in most European countries, Via Rail does not own the rail tracks. Most of the rail line used is owned by Canadian National Railway Co. This means that passenger rail is constantly stuck behind heavier and slower freight trains.

While the delay on Saturday was not related to shared tracks, Via Rail still needs passenger-specific rail lines, alongside an updated train fleet, said Prof. Prentice.

“If you want to spend the money, you could have a beautiful train system,” he said. “But you can’t just adapt the old train sets and use freight rail lines and expect the same kind of reliability.”

In 2022, the federal government formed VIA HFR Inc., which has the mandate to develop and implement high-frequency passenger rail service in the 1,000-kilometre corridor that connects Toronto and Quebec City.

Ottawa has yet to approve funding for the plan.

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Montreal or Quebec City: Which City to Visit?

Published on September 5, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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If you’re considering a city break in the Canadian province of Quebec, you’re likely trying to choose between two cities – Montreal or the eponymous Quebec City. Both are interesting cities with a lot to offer visitors, but they’re also wildly different and can suit different needs for varying reasons.

While you can’t go wrong with either, I’d recommend choosing Montreal if you’re looking to explore a vibrant, international city with diverse sites, a wonderful culinary scene and many different things to do. On the other hand, visit Quebec City if you only have a day or two, are a history buff and are after a little slice of Europe in North America.

Having spent some time in both of these lovely Canadian cities, there are more factors to consider and I can help you decide which suits you and your travel style most. But if you have the time – why not visit both?

Table of Contents

As Canada’s second-largest city and Quebec’s largest, Montreal is a bustling metropolis that feels very European in atmosphere. With a diverse population and an incredible culinary scene, this is an excellent city to explore.

Accessibility

As one of Canada’s largest cities, Montreal is easy to access from across the globe. Home to its own high-traffic international airport – Montréal–Trudeau International Airport – and a hub for Air Canada, there are direct connections to the city from countless destinations in the US, Canada, Europe and beyond.

The airport isn’t far from the city centre and it’s easy to access via public transport, taxi or ride share. It’s worth noting that Montreal’s airport is much higher traffic than Quebec’s so there are a lot more options to arrive here if you’re not coming from elsewhere in Canada or a handful of destinations in the US and Mexico.

Montreal can also easily be reached in about a 5-hour drive from Toronto, ON or Boston, MA . It is also only located about 1.5 hours from Burlington, VT so it’s easy to visit if you happen to be exploring New England – it’s what we did!

Once in Montreal, it’s a very accessible city in terms of public transport. It’s absolutely not necessary to have a car – in fact, many residents don’t own them. The metro system is clean, fast, robust and efficient. Where the metro doesn’t cover, there are lots of bus options available.

This is an advantage over Quebec City – the public transit in Montreal is much better, however, it is also a much larger city.

If you happen to be visiting in the cold winter months, you also can avoid spending too much time outside. Montreal is home to a vast underground city that spans over 30 kilometres and connects various shopping centres and metro stations through a series of (very well-lit) underground tunnels!

All in all, Montreal is a little bit more connected and easier to get around than Quebec City, but there is also more ground that you need to cover here.

Affordability

Another major factor that many will consider when choosing whether to visit Quebec City or Montreal would be the affordability of either city.

Canada isn’t necessarily the most budget-friendly of countries no matter which way you look at it, but it can be helpful to know where your hard-earned cash will stretch the furthest.

Because it is a bigger city and there are more options available for just about everything, Montreal can be a bit more affordable compared to Quebec, especially when it comes to accommodation prices.

In general, however, the price difference isn’t significant enough to sway the decision either way and it’s far easier to determine which city you want to visit based on other factors, such as the ease of getting around and the things you wish to see and do there.

Things to do in Montreal

If you’re getting into the bones of choosing between Montreal and Quebec City, it’s probably going to trump down to the things you’d like to do while there. And Montreal has a lot of things to do.

If you want to get a true feel for this Quebecois city, then make sure to have enough time to devote to exploring it – a minimum of 3 full days is ideal, though you can cover a lot of ground in a busy 2 days.

Make sure to spend at least one full day exploring the old town of Montreal, taking in sites like the incredible Notre Dame Basilica, the Marche Bonsecours and the ornate City Hall.

You can also learn a bit about the city’s colonial history at the Chateau Ramezay or enter the lovely Sailor’s Chapel. A good way to explore the attractions of Old Montreal is by joining a free walking tour  or   a paid walking tour .

It’s also with it to most over to the Vieux Port – especially if you’re visiting in the warmer months, where you can hop on a river cruise of the St Lawrence, ride the Ferris wheel or engage in a few other adrenaline-pumping activities.

Also, make sure to head over to nearby Chinatown before wandering through the downtown area and maybe even venturing into the underground city (Eaton Centre Mall is a great place for this).

Make sure to plan another day where you spend the time exploring the Mile End neighbourhood and wandering (and eating!) your way through the incredible cuisine in Little Italy.

The Jean-Talon Market is a must-see and it’s essential to sample a Montreal-style bagel at an institution like Fairmount Bagels or St Viateur Bagel. This is also a popular place to join a food tour if you want to learn about the food scene in the city.

Finally, make sure not to miss the incredible St Joseph’s Oratory – an incredible church on the top of Mont Royale, and also wander through Mont Royale Park and Cemetery.

And for those who have more time, a long walk down St Lawrence Boulevard is always due and make sure to visit the lovely botanical gardens and Olympic Park.

Where to Stay in Montreal

Le Dauphin Montréal Centre-Ville – Situated close to all of Old Montreal’s highlights, this hip 3-star hotel has several comfortable rooms to choose from, an on-site fitness centre, breakfast and parking available,

Hotel Gault – Situated in a gorgeous building, this is a great option for a luxe stay. There are countless plush rooms available along with amenities like a fab breakfast, on-site restaurant and bar and much more.

L’Appartement Hôtel – Boasting an indoor swimming pool, family rooms and a good breakfast, there are a few different studios, and one- and two-bedroom suites to choose from here. All rooms come equipped with all you may need.

M Montreal – This hostel is a good affordable option with lots of dorms and private rooms to choose from. There is also an excellent rooftop terrace with jacuzzis for guests to enjoy!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Montreal hotels!

Quebec City

Smaller though slightly more dramatic visually than Montreal, Quebec City is the provincial capital and a wonderful destination to visit in its own right.

With an old town that feels more akin to France or Scotland than Canada, this is an excellent place to visit to learn a bit of history and take in a truly beautiful Canadian town.

Unlike Montreal, Quebec City is a little bit more difficult to reach. There is a small airport, but – as mentioned previously – doesn’t have anywhere near the direct connections that Montreal does. And, if you’re driving, it’s about 8 hours from Toronto and 7 hours from Boston.

The easiest way to reach Quebec City as a standalone destination is to go through Montreal to begin with.

There are much more options for arrivals into Montreal and it’s easy to get to the capital from there. You can reach Quebec City in about 3 hours – either by driving or taking the train (there are several direct trains daily which can be booked in advance ).

Once you’re in the city, you’ll find that the easiest way to get around is on your own two feet. There isn’t a metro system here, but there is a bus system should you need it. However, the city centre and old town is compact and easily walkable, so it may not be necessary unless you’re staying a bit further out.

You can also opt to take a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Uber if you want to get somewhere further afield. However, it is generally not necessary at all to have your vehicle while here – we kept our car parked the entirety of the time we were visiting!

Keep in mind that the old city is a bit hilly, but it isn’t overwhelmingly so. It is divided into an upper town and a lower town and there are staircases to connect the two – and there aren’t many and they aren’t super steep.

That being said, if you are less mobile and still want to explore on foot, there is a funicular from the lower to upper towns that you can use. However, the price isn’t necessarily worth it if you have a moderate level of fitness.

As mentioned previously, the price difference between Quebec City and Montreal isn’t really significant enough to make a huge difference. And it’s worth noting that neither are particularly budget-friendly destinations.

However, from what we experienced, we found that prices in Quebec City were a bit higher compared to Montreal. As I’ve already said, this was most significant when looking at accommodation costs. Besides this, prices for things like food and entry tickets are generally about the same.

Things to do in Quebec City

Quebec City is smaller than Montreal, though there are still several great things to do. You can easily occupy one full, busy day and if you’re particularly interested, there is enough to see and do in the city to allow for two full days – especially if you decide to head and and visit the incredible Montmorency Falls located just outside of the city.

The Old City has the majority of the top sites, and it is a pure joy to wander around and explore – it truly feels like a European old town and reminds me a lot of Edinburgh . You can  join a walking tour  or  arrange a private tour if you prefer to learn about the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I recommend starting in the lower town and taking in the lovely Place Royale and strolling down the cobbled, pedestrianised Rue du Petit Champlain before heading up to the upper town. If you happen to be visiting in winter or during the holiday season, this area is also completely decked out in lights and decorations.

As mentioned already, you can take a funicular up here, but you can just as easily climb the staircase. It’s really not that many stairs and it’s not too steep!

Once up there, you’ll be at the foot of the gorgeous Château Frontenac – a 5-star hotel that dates back to the late 19th Century. It dominates the skyline of old Quebec and it really looks like a castle.

At the base of the Château Frontenac, you will find the Dufferin Terrace. This is a broad, wooden promenade that is lovely to stroll along and provides excellent views over the St Lawrence River.

Also make sure to visit the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, the beautiful cathedral in Quebec City that’s free to enter. And, of course, no exploration of this area is complete without heading to the Citadelle de Quebec.

This historic fortification offers guided tours and visits and you can also view the changing of the guard daily. Next to the Citadelle, you can also stroll through the expansive Plains of Abraham Park or, if you want to see the city from a different vantage point, head out on a cruise of the St Lawrence.

With a day, you will also have time to wander around the hip Saint Roch neighbourhood, which is filled with cool cafes, restaurants and plenty of craft breweries. This is a great place to enjoy and experience modern Quebec after spending so much time in the historical centre.

Where to Stay in Quebec City

Auberge du Trésor – Located in the heart of the old town, this hotel has plenty of charming rooms and is a great mid-range choice. There is also an on-site French bistro, parking and a bar to enjoy.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac – The most iconic accommodation choice in Quebec City, this luxe hotel has countless exquisite rooms to choose from, multiple restaurants, a spa and much much more on offer.

HI – Quebec – With great common areas and both dorms and private rooms available, this hostel is perfect for budget visitors or those after a social atmosphere. It’s well located for exploring Quebec City and comes very highly rated.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Quebec City hotels!

Quebec City vs Montreal: The Verdict

So with all of the above information taken into account – which Canadian city should you visit?

It really depends on what you’re after as both cities have so much to offer. However, if you’re short on time, you’re probably better off heading to Quebec City compared to Montreal. The former is much more compact and you can cover a lot of ground in a short period of time.

Montreal is best visited if you have at least 3 days to truly get to know it – so if you want to visit, plan it around a long weekend.

Montreal is easier to reach than Quebec in many different aspects and the public transport system is larger and more robust – but it is a larger city in general and is more needed.

Aside from the time constraints, Quebec City is a great option for those who love an old town that seems to be a time capsule and for those interested in learning all about French Canadian history.

And while you can certainly get all of those things in Montreal, that city is better if you’re after a large, metropolitan feel, lots of cultural diversity and a truly fantastic culinary scene.

Whether you choose to visit Montreal or have set your sites on Quebec City, you can’t really make a bad choice. Both are great cities and have lots to see and do and offer a distinctive experience in Canada.

Are you wondering which city to visit in Quebec province? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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Quebec To Vancouver: How Much This Canadian Coast-To-Coast Train Trip Will Cost

• Taking a train in Canada allows travelers to experience the natural beauty of the country in a way that words cannot describe.
• Many people overlook train travel, but it can be a budget-friendly and slower-paced option for exploring Canada.
• An 18-day coast-to-coast train trip with Amtrak allows travelers to see incredible sights from Halifax to Vancouver for a reasonable price.

For those who have never traveled to Canada before, taking a train can give visitors a true taste of what the country has to offer. Outside the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan landscape is natural beauty that words cannot describe. From the mountains to the grasslands, the ocean, and even rainforests, Canada is a country filled with natural wonders.

Unfortunately, taking a train to see the countryside is not something that most people think of when booking their reservations. The goal is usually to get to the destination as quickly as possible. While this may be necessary with some vacations, if taking a Canadian vacation on a budget , many travelers may be better suited to a slower pace. A slower pace allows time to see everything on the itinerary but includes sights that may have never been considered before.

All of this can be done for less than the cost of a plane ticket and hotel reservations when taking the train from one coast of Canada to the other. Here is how much a Quebec to Vancouver Canadian coast-to-coast train trip will cost.

10 Scenic Amtrak Trains, Ranked By Visitor Reviews

Amtrak's quebec to vancouver coast-to-coast experience, travelers can take an 18-day coast-to-coast train trip with amtrak.

For those who choose to see Canada by rail, they will be enjoying an 18-day adventure from Halifax to Vancouver. There is no need to worry about planning and the little details. Amtrak has a preset itinerary they follow to ensure that the beauty of Canada is seen while stopping along the way at the sights that tourists want to experience.

The tour begins by spending a night in Halifax. Travelers will have the opportunity to have dinner in the city before staying the night in a hotel. For those looking to see more of the city, there is an opportunity to sightsee in the morning as well before travelers board the train to begin their coast-to-coast trip.

Once boarded, passengers will get settled in as the train makes its way to Quebec City, with its historic city center and other worthwhile attractions .

From Quebec City, Montreal is the next destination. Here, a list of amazing attractions can be found , such as the Notre Dame Basilica, the Place Jacques Cartier, and Old Montreal can be toured without rush, and then it is off to Toronto to enjoy culinary fare that is as diverse as the population is.

Once the city of Toronto has been seen, passengers will be able to take in the beauty of Canada's top tourist attraction, Niagra Falls , and the natural wonder that it is. But not to be outdone are the snow-capped mountains in the Canadian Rockies that can be seen as the train makes its way into Jasper.

Toronto To Vancouver: Ride Canada's Longest Train (A Four-Day Trip)

As if that snowy beauty was not enough, passengers will get the opportunity to explore a glacier as they enter Banff. In conjunction with exploring the Crowfoot Glacier, several lakes, and Athabasca Falls will be seen as well.

If there is time to explore, hot springs abound in Banff as well . All of this is a stark contrast to the final stop in Vancouver, a bustling metropolis that has amazing shopping at Granville Island and a step back into history when exploring Gastown.

Given that so much of Canada is seen on this trip, many expect the trip to break the bank. But with many meals and accommodations already factored in, the price per person is reasonable compared to other forms of travel.

How Much Does The Quebec To Vancouver Coast-To-Coast Train Cost?

A quebec to vancouver amtrak trip costs about $4,000.

When booking the trip from Quebec to Vancouver, passengers are going from one coast of Canada to the other. In doing so, they are covering 2,358 miles and taking 18 days to do so, so that eight incredible sights can be seen along the way.

The price for a trip of this caliber from Quebec to Vancouver starts at $4,099 per person, according to Amtrak , and can go as high as $4,399 per person.

Amtrak's Itinerary

• Day 1: The journey begins in Halifax
• Day 2: Overnight onboard the train
• Day 3: Arrive in Quebec City
• Day 4: Enjoy a guided tour of Quebec City
• Day 5: Travel overnight to Montreal
• Day 6: Explore Montreal
• Day 7: Take the train from Montreal to Toronto and explore Toronto
• Day 8: Take the train from Toronto to Niagra Falls
• Day 9: Stay on the train for overnight travel
• Day 10: Continue riding on the train for daytime and overnight travel
• Day 11: Continue riding on the train for daytime and overnight travel
• Day 12: Arrive in Jasper and explore the area
• Day 13: Depart for Banff; Arrive and explore via guided tour
• Day 14: Return to Jasper
• Day 15: Stay on the train for overnight travel
• Day 16: Arrive in Vancouver
• Day 17: Explore Vancouver
• Day 18: The journey ends in Vancouver

Highlights According To Amtrak:

• Sightseeing tour of Quebec
• Sightseeing tour of Montreal
• Sightseeing tour of Niagara Falls
• Sightseeing tour of the Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier
• Admission to Vancouver Lookout

What Is Included On The Amtrak Train:

• One-way Amtrak in Economy from Halifax to Vancouver
• 12 nights hotel accommodations, 5 nights on the train
• 3 meals (two lunches and one dinner)

Booking The Trip:

Booking the trip from Quebec to Vancouver could not be easier to do. Passengers simply fill out a form online that includes the dates of travel and Amtrak will provide an instantaneous quote. If satisfied with how much the trip will cost, it can be purchased during this time.

For those who prefer speaking with someone over the phone, reservations can be made that way as well. All passengers need to do is call Amtrak.

Other Coast-To-Coast Canadian Routes To Consider

Amtrak offers other canadian train trips.

For those who have a desire to see a similar tour of Canada from coast to coast, some options take slightly less time than the 18-day journey from Halifax to Vancouver.

The first option is a 17-day and seven-sight tour that takes off from Vancouver and ends in Halifax. Many of the same sights are seen along the way. However, less time is spent in Vancouver on this eastbound trip and only two meals are offered instead of three. If this is not an issue, going in the opposite direction may be a great option.

• A Vancouver to Halifax trip starts at $3,849 per person .

Train From Vancouver To Banff: How To Take This Scenic, Bucket-List Journey

The second option is very similar to the 18-day journey from Halifax to Vancouver. However, less time is spent in Halifax on this westbound trip, making the trip a grand total of 17 days. Also, there are only two meals included instead of three.

• A Halifax to Vancouver trip starts at $3,649 per person .

There truly is nothing like taking a trip via the rails to get a true idea of what a vacation destination is like. Being able to slow down, not have to worry about the details, and explore more than likely would have been seen if planning a trip via car or plane, makes a coast-to-coast train trip through Canada one to remember.