Quebec City vs Montreal – Which Should You Visit?
Planning a trip to Canada and debating Quebec City vs Montreal? I had the same dilemma when researching my trip. Luckily, I was able to visit both Montreal and Quebec City. I'll take you through what each destination has to offer and which might be best for you!
Now is a great time to visit Canada, especially for Americans with the exchange rate being about 1 USD to 1.37 CAD. Friendly people, good food, incredible scenery, and nature escapes are just a few things that come to mind when I think of Canada.
The province of Quebec is a great place to start exploring Canada. You have the major city of Montreal and right next door is charming Quebec City. If you’re short on time, the question of Quebec City vs Montreal is sure to come up. Which to visit?
I’ve been to both Montreal and Quebec City. In this post, I'll discuss which city is best depending on what type of traveler you are and what type of trip you're looking for.
Montreal - Quebec City vs Montreal | Which Should You Visit?
Why decide between Montreal or Quebec City if you can do both?
Before I go into my opinion on Quebec City vs. Montreal, let me first say that I adore both cities and can’t wait to revisit each. Both places exceeded my expectations and I would highly recommend that everyone visit both Montreal and Quebec City at some point.
My first suggestion would be to try to fit both cities into one visit. It’s actually quite easy on a short itinerary.
You can travel between Montreal and Quebec City in as little as 3.5 hours via train.
On the shortest itinerary, I would spend 2 full days in each city. Fly into one city and out of the other. Simple, easy, and you get to experience the best of both worlds.
Views from Kondiaronk Belvedere, Montreal - Quebec City vs Montreal | Which Should You Visit?
The short and sweet answer to Quebec City vs Montreal
If fitting both cities into your itinerary is not an option because you are either short on time or would like to explore one city to the fullest, then I would say Quebec City should be your first pick. Save Montreal for your second trip to the Quebec province.
St. Charles River, Quebec City - Quebec City vs Montreal | Which Should You Visit?
Quebec City
Quebec City
Quebec City vs Montreal - who should pick Quebec City
Out of all the destinations in Canada, Quebec City seems to reign supreme on Instagram. And for good reason. This is one of Canada’s most charming, picture-perfect, “I feel like I’m in Europe” cities.
The most atmospheric and tourist sights are all walkable. If you don’t mind a 20-minute stroll, you can get pretty much anywhere in the city by foot.
Umbrella Alley - Quebec City vs Montreal
Petit Champlain - Quebec City vs Montreal
One of the most memorable activities in Quebec City is wandering down Rue de Petit Champlain.
The narrow cobblestoned streets, windows adorned with brightly colored shutters and cheerful flower baskets, sidewalk cafes, and adorable bistros will transport you to a cozy French town.
Try to visit Petit Champlain early in the day and late at night. This is every other traveler's favorite activity and the crowds prove it.
Now is also a good time to mention that cruise ships stop in Quebec City. This fills the streets to annoying levels in the afternoon, which is why you should get up early and explore the popular spots before the ships dock.
I found 7:00 am to 9:00 am and after 7:00 pm ideal for wandering around the Petit Champlain quarter.
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac - Quebec City vs Montreal | Which Should You Visit?
Besides having a charming French village atmosphere, Quebec City also has some solid dining options. Fancy an afternoon tea in a royal atmosphere? Be sure to visit the famous Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.
Whether you're in need of some delicate pastries, a strong cappuccino or cold brew, authentic French cooking, or a hearty brunch, this city has some outstanding choices and enough to keep your palate intrigued for several days if not weeks.
Montmorency Falls - Quebec City vs Montreal | Which Should You Visit?
Quebec City is also minutes from a countryside escape. Rent a car and drive 15 minutes to the Ile d’Orleans, the agricultural island known as “the Garden of Quebec”. This small island supplies much of Quebec City’s produce.
It's mostly rural and filled with adorable boutiques, charming bed and breakfasts, and farms where you can taste jams, ciders, ice wine, and cassis gelato.
This is an incredibly easy Quebec City day trip and can be paired with a visit to Montmorency Falls. The waterfalls that beat Niagara Falls in height by about 100 feet.
Rue Saint-Pierre - Quebec City or Montreal | Which Should You Visit?
To sum it up, if charming streets to wander, endless photo opportunities, a city that is easily navigable by foot, solid restaurant options, and nature escapes right next door are your jam, then Quebec City is the right choice when debating between Montreal or Quebec City.
This is also an easy place to slow down and have a relaxing vacation or romantic getaway.
DON'T MISS MY FAVORITE COFFEE SHOPS IN QUEBEC CITY
Montreal vs Quebec City - who should pick Montreal
Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal
Montreal City Hall
Moving on to part two of Montreal vs Quebec City…Montreal. You may think I prefer Quebec City to Montreal by what you just read, but that's actually not the case.
I prefer Quebec City to Montreal for a first visit to the Quebec province. That does not mean I think Quebec City is better. If you’ve come this far, you’ve read my complete opinion on why I lean towards Quebec City for a first-time visitor.
If you weren’t sold by my description listing why Quebec City is the way to go when debating Montreal or Quebec City, then Montreal might be a better fit for you.
Montreal is a lively city. Emphasis on city. But that doesn’t mean it lacks charm. In fact, Old Town, aka Old Montreal, dates back to the early 1600s and feels distinctly Parisienne.
Cobblestoned streets, cute (but touristy) bistros, and heavenly views overlooking the St. Lawrence River make this a delightful city break just minutes from bustling downtown. You’ll feel like you’re in a completely different place when you venture into this area.
Get a a very different experience by visiting the downtown area complete with skyscrapers and trendy shops.
Head to Mile-End or Mile-Ex to explore the hipster side of Montreal with colorful wall art and murals, indie shops, and countless coffee shops.
Jean-Talon Market
Jean-Talon Market
Hop next door to Little Italy and visit the Jean Talon Market, North America’s largest and most colorful public market.
SEE ALSO:
A WEEKEND IN MONTREAL | 2 DAY ITINERARY
BEST TIME TO VISIT MONTREAL CANADA | IDEAL MONTHS
BEST DESSERTS IN MONTREAL | ICE CREAM, PASTRIES, CAKES
Vieux-Montréal (Old Montreal) - Quebec City or Montreal | Which Should You Visit?
Montreal is made up of several very different and diverse neighborhoods. You could easily spend an entire weekend exploring the main ones.
If wandering neighborhoods for days on end is what gets you excited, then Montreal is your best bet when debating Montreal vs. Quebec City. Quebec City has a very similar feel throughout, whereas Montreal is a mesh of totally different neighborhoods offering a variety of vibes and cultures.
Another thing to keep in mind when debating Quebec City vs Montreal is the size and how you like to get around. Montreal is considerably larger than Quebec City and will require a few Uber and/or metro rides. If you visit during the warmer months, you can use the cheap city bikes and get an excellent workout while riding all over the city. Montreal is very bike-friendly.
I visited in July and didn’t use the metro once. Instead, I biked everywhere. I by no means bike often when at home, yet, I felt completely comfortable and safe exploring Montreal on two wheels.
If you prefer a completely walkable city, then go for Quebec City.
Montreal is the better option when debating Quebec City vs Montreal if you like diversity. Not only in the architecture and people but also in food. You can find excellent Spanish tapas, rustic Italian pizza and pasta, French croissants and macarons, Greek tzatziki and saganaki, and of course, you can’t forget Canadian poutine.
The vibrant and eclectic food scene is reason enough to visit this thriving metropolis.
Kondiaronk Belvedere
Mont-Royal
You might not have a 272-foot waterfall on your doorstep like Quebec City, but there are plenty of quick escapes from the concrete city. Hike up to Mt. Royal to see spectacular views of the city below and the Montreal skyline. You'll notice plenty of locals taking advantage of the hills, thick forest, and walking/biking paths to get a workout in.
Montreal also has the St. Lawrence River which makes for a perfect riverside morning jog or evening stroll to walk off dinner.
I can't discuss Quebec City vs Montreal without noting that Montreal is a festival city. There are almost too many festivals to keep track of and chances are there will be a festival when you visit.
Jazz, beer, fireworks, the circus, murals, food trucks, the list of varying themes goes on and on. This is not only fun for tourists but also locals. It’s a great way to mix with Montreal residents.
My favorite coffee shop in Montreal - Crew Collective and Cafe
Summary of Quebec City vs Montreal
If you’re looking for a city that has variety in everything from its neighborhoods to international cuisine, Montreal will be a better fit for you. If you prefer a “real-life city” vs. a tourist-focused destination, Montreal should be your city of choice.
Montreal is a major city, so of course, there is going to be more to do, restaurants to try, shops to wander in, a livelier night scene, etc.
Quebec City could easily be a romantic getaway or relaxed girls' weekend. It offers a charming European atmosphere and the opportunity to slow down.
Montreal, on the other hand, can keep you busy till all hours of the night (or morning) and provides plenty of activities, neighborhoods, and sights to keep travelers of all interests happy.
So, are you looking for charm or big-city liveliness? International variety or a quintessential French vibe? These questions will help answer which city is best for you.
If you're still debating Quebec City or Montreal feel free to leave a comment below on what type of trip you want and I'll help you out!
Montreal Hotel Recommendations:
Luxury
Midrange
- Hotel Le Germain Montreal
- Hôtel Bonaparte
- Humaniti Hotel Montreal Autograph Collection
- Le Petite Hotel
- Hotel Place d'Armes Old Montreal
- Hotel Gault
Budget-Friendly
Quebec City Hotel Recommendations:
Luxury
- Hotel 71 by Preferred Hotels & Resorts
- Auberge Saint-Antoine Relais & Châteaux
- Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac *because this is the most famous hotel in Quebec City, a lot of tourists visit during the day to take a look*
Midrange
- Hôtel des Coutellier
- Hôtel Le Germain Québec
- Hotel Du Vieux Quebec
- Quebec City Marriott Downtown - I prefer the other hotels listed, but if you're loyal to Marriott, this is a great option.
Share the love and save this post on Pinterest
Quebec City vs. Montreal - Which Should You Visit?
Hi! Single girl trying to do a solo trip – which city do you recommend?
Hi! Both are great for solo female travelers. Montreal will offer more to do and keep you busy, where Quebec will be more quaint and charming…perfect if you like to wander and take in the atmosphere. How many days do you have?
Hi! Thanks for the great read! What would you recommend if planning a winter trip, between Christmas and New Years?
Glad you enjoyed! I haven’t been during the holidays…but I personally think Quebec City would be beautiful during Christmas. Montreal will most likely have more going on (events and such), but Quebec City has the European village vibe, which I love during the holidays.
Hi Ash,
You inspired me to go to Quebec City ad maybe a couple of days in Montreal . My daughter is treating me for my 80th birthday this summer. I know you said most of the city you can wall to. I imagine you were in the center of the city. Would you consider it walkable for an older woman?
I would say Quebec City is walkable for someone that’s older. It’s not entirely flat (some hills here and there) and there are some areas with cobblestones…but as long as you take a pace that’s comfortable you should be fine. If you end up getting tired, there is Uber in Quebec City, so it’s a nice backup.
Thank you all this info. We are planning an 8 or 9 night trip to Montreal and Quebec in late June with our daughters, ages 13 and 15. How would you recommend dividing up our trip? Any other place to add in to that? Thanks!
If you want to take it slow, not be rushed, and see everything, you could spend 4 days in each city. This allows enough time for a day trip to Mont-Tremblant National Park (hiking/nature escape outside of Montreal) and Il d’Orleans (Quebec City). Another option is to take the 5-hour train and add Toronto (for big city vibes). This will be a bit rushed as I would split it 3 nights Toronto, 3 nights Montreal, 2 Quebec City. Personally, I prefer to take it slow in order to feel like I really did the city vs. rush it…so I recommend sticking to just 2 cities.
Thank you for a great article and perspective. I am considering a trip around mid August with my girlfriend. We would be driving 3-5 hrs from NH and considering staying for a few weeks with remote work and playing when not working.
I am thinking a slower pace with options to explore culinary delights but also cook in. We love nature and hikes. We also have a medium size dog and hoping to find pet friend lodging/ability to hike with him.
Appreciate any suggestions for which city and regions/areas for in-city lodging at hotel chains ( I have lots of points) and then also airbnb or other for longer stay breaking the stays up as needed. Thx in advance
Hi Gary, Montreal will have a lot more options for hotel chains to use your points. I loved Quebec City, but it’s small. If I was working I could probably spend 2 weeks there. Montreal has a lot more to do, more restaurants, more coffee shops, etc. Can you break up your trip? 1/2 the time in Montreal and 1/2 in Quebec City?
My fiancé and I are trying to decide between just visiting one city or tackling both on our 6-7 day honeymoon. We originally had our hearts set on Montreal, but after seeing how charming Quebec City looks, I’m almost more excited at the possibility of going there! I want to show my fiancé around cities that feel European, so that hopefully I can convince him to go overseas with me someday 😉 We are interested in trying great food, staying in a cute area, and getting lots of photos (my fiancé is a film photographer).
Do you suggest we try to do both cities, or just focus on one?
With 6-7 days I would absolutely do both! Spend a minimum of two nights in Quebec City…longer if you want to slow down, linger, and maybe do a day trip or two. Quebec has a lot more charm and great food. Montreal has great food as well and neighborhoods with different vibes (lots of hipster areas, which is fun).
Hi there,
Thank you! Really enjoyed going over the differences you mentioned. I am planning a 2-3 day trip over a long weekend. I will also be driving from Toronto. Would Quebec be better or Montreal for a first trip with a car? I liked the idea of everything being walking distance in Quebec.
Hi Aisha, so glad you’ve found this post helpful! I personally would go with Quebec City for a 2-3 day trip. I find it’s more memorable. Montreal is awesome, but definitely has more of a city vibe whereas Quebec City feels more European. Plus, I really value the walkability of Quebec City…just like you. If you’re there in the summer, definitely check out Montmorency Falls and Ile d’Orleans
Hi! Thank you for your informational post! We are planning a romantic getaway this summer in Quebec City. How did you find the language barrier with local businesses/hotels/restaurants? I have high school and some college French, but want to know how much I need to brush up on! Thank you in advance!
Almost zero language barrier. Everyone I came in contact with (hotels, coffee shops, restaurants) spoke English. I’m similar (high school French), and I did just fine…I don’t remember having to use French once.
This post was incredibly helpful! I am trying to plan a 3-4 day trip to Canada for this upcoming August and was having this exact dilemma. Do you have hotel recommendations for Quebec City? I don’t think I saw this on here, only for Montreal. Thanks!
Yes, I’m actually working on that today! Hotel recs will be added and I’ll email them to you as well.
Hi you have made such vivid descriptions that I am now planning a week getaway to Montreal and old Quebec, where are the best areas to stay in? I am leaving this coming Thursday
If you go to the end of the post, I list hotel recommendations. They are all in areas I recommend and are close to everything…location is usually my first priority when finding hotels 🙂 Have so much fun!
It is Niagara not Niagra
Thank you for that spell check!
We will be traveling with a 2.5 year old in early June, likely spending 4-5 days in the region, we’ll be spending a few days in Brampton (near Toronto) for a family wedding, would it make sense to do 2 days in Quebec and 3 days in Montreal? Any place more “kid friendly” than the other. We had our honeymoon in France and loved the relaxed vibe but that was before a toddler, would love to mimic that charm while being mindful of having things to do and food to eat!
Quebec City is a lot smaller and a great place to slow down. Montreal feels more like a city. If you’re trying to mimic that European vibe, definitely go for Quebec. A day trip to Ile d’Orleans and Montmorency Falls would be fun as well (from Quebec City). If you’re looking for kid museums and such, I’m sure Montreal will have more “kid activities” since it’s a major city. Personally, if I had a kid with me, I would focus more on Quebec City…I feel like it would be easier.
Great Information, looking to take 20 yr, 18 yr old and 14 yr old, away for a long weekend late spring. 3 full days, 4 nights. Not sure Montreal or Quebec? Any suggestions? Kids do like relaxing and touristy stuff. They like good food too! Especially checking out ICE CREAM places. Any advice would be great!!
Thanks so much 😉
That’s a tough one, b/c both would be good with kids in that age range. I still veer towards Quebec City. It’s more beautiful (Ile D’Orleans and Montmorency Falls are awesome), easier to get around/navigate, and just an all-around pleasant city. Montreal on the other hand feels more like a city and will therefore have more museums, shopping, etc. I did really enjoy wandering around the different neighborhoods in Quebec City and stopping at cafes, bakeries, etc. It’s a wonderful foodie city. 3 full days in Quebec City is more than enough and very manageable. Does that help at all?
Love this post and how informative it is.
We want to go to New York and then head up to Canada. Have 3 kids (11yrs old to 8 yrs old)
What do you suggest regarding how to get to Canada from NYC and which city to go to the Canada?
We have 7 days in total
Hi Monica,
If it was me, I would just fly from NYC to Montreal. Spend 3 to 4 days in Montreal (depending on how late you get in) and then do 3 to 4 days in Quebec City. That’s enough time in each city that you’ll get to slow down (especially with kids). I don’t know when you’re visiting, but if it’s in the summer months Ile D’Orleans will be a great day trip combined with Montmorency Falls.
This was so helpful. Thank you for your post. My husband and I are planning a trip for late August. We would love to go to both places. We both love the outdoors, but also love the feel of a european city and just a city in general. We are foodies…he’s picky (no fish, limited vegetables, I am not. We are trying to figure out how many days in each place without feeling rushed, but also not overstaying. We love to go to cities where we can walk most places but don’t need a car (unless for an awesome day trip). Would you have an itinerary of the must do things in each place and how long you would recommend. Also hotel recommendations based on location…We don’t need 5 star, but don’t want low end either. Any and all recommendations would be well accepted. Also, just for information we love both Italy and France and I am a huge coffee drinker. Love charming shops. Thank you!
Hi,
I have a few other posts that would be helpful:
Montreal 2-Day Itinerary
Montreal Coffee Shops
Quebec City Coffee Shops
Ile d’Orleans and Montmorency Falls from Quebec City
I would say 3 days in each city not to be rushed. You could do just 2 days, but 3 days is a nice buffer. 4 days if you really want to take it slow and chill.
Lastly, if you look at the end of the blog post, you’ll see both mid-range and luxury hotel recommendations for each city.
Hope that helps and have fun!
Hi, your article didn’t help me decide at all, it only made me want to visit both places!
All joking aside, thank you SO much for a wonderfully detailed blog that has me counting the days until our anniversary trip. I thought I wanted to go to Montreal and I’m so glad I found your article, because now I feel like we’ll try to make it to both places. They look incredible and I can’t wait. Thank you very much for your amazing work!
Thank you, that means so much! Yes, if you can fit both in DO IT! It’s so easy to travel between the 2 cities and they definitely have a different vibe going on. Have fun and happy anniversary!
Please HELP! We are planning a 3 day trip to Quebec City. Leaving in 2 days from now. It is supposed to be miserable weather wise. Is it still worthwhile to go to Quebec City or would Montreal be a better option bc of underground shopping if weather is bad lol! I really appreciate your response bc we can’t decide.
Oh no! I’m sorry to hear the weather will be bad. Yes, I would go for Montreal. There is more to do indoors. I was outside ALL the time in Quebec City and half the fun of the city is wandering around and enjoying the neighborhoods. I would save Quebec City for when the weather is better.
Planning on 3 days in either Montreal or Quebec December 6 – 10. Want to experience the christmas spirit with christmas fairs and attractions. which city would you recommend. not looking for major night life.
Personally, if it was me, I would go for the charm of Quebec City during Christmas. Quebec City won’t have Christmas markets/fairs as big as Montreal, but it has more of a cozy/quaint vibe…which is so wonderful during the holidays. If you want bigger attractions/fairs and more things “to do”, then go for Montreal.
Great article! I’m planning to visit Quebec City and Montreal soon, and this post has helped me make up my mind. I love the idea of exploring the historic architecture and cobblestone streets of Quebec City, as well as the vibrant arts and culture scene. Montreal, on the other hand, offers a more laid-back and international vibe, with a diverse food scene and plenty of parks and green spaces. Thanks for the thorough comparison!
Hi
Love the information !!!!
A small group of us are ending our cruise Oct 11 in Quebec City. You mentioned shops may close in October – is that the case around the 11 – 13th?
Glad you enjoyed the post! Are you referring to the Ile d’Orleans day trip blog post? If so, while I haven’t visited the island in October, my research says summer is the best time to visit as some shops may be closed outside of summer. Quebec City should be open like normal in October. The fall colors will be gorgeous this time of year!
Great blog post. I am planning my 40th bday with girlfriends and am in between the two cities. We want great food and wine, nature, and nightlife. I love the idea of a walking town, but if it is super sleepy at night then I would say Montreal is probably better. Most likely a long weekend. Everyone is coming from the east cost. Is there any nightlife in Quebec or is it too sleepy?
If you’re looking for nightlife I would 100% go for Montreal. While I’m sure you could find some nightlife in Quebec City, Montreal will have a lot more options since it’s a larger city.
We have 4 nights in July. Would like to do both Montreal and Quebec city, but I think 2 nights each in Montreal and Quebec city would be too rushed? Considering just all 4 nights in Quebec city is that too much? I was set on Quebec city until I saw your blog on 2 days in Montreal.
For the average visitor, 4 days is too long. Yes, 2 days in each city will feel fast, but that’s what I would recommend.
Thank you so much for this post!! We are a family of 4 (two kids 9 and 11). I love the idea of doing both cities. For a family like ours, does it make more sense to rent a car to travel in between the cities or to take the train? When we are in each city, will we need a car or will public transportation be enough?
Hi Gina. I would take the train. Montreal has a great metro + Uber is always available. Quebec City is quite small. So you can walk to most places and use Uber when needed. The only thing you would need a car for is if you’re going to do Ile d’Orleans. For that, I would just rent a car for the day (that’s what I did). If you’re doing multiple trips from Quebec City, then there are some paid garages if you wanted to have a car for more than a day. Like most cities, parking isn’t always easy to come by, which is why Uber/public transportation is better…IMO.
Thank you so much for the reply Ashley! I greatly appreciate it! 😊
This is super helpful in making a decision on where to go! Thank you!
Glad it helped!
Hi! great post! I’m from Argentina, and with my family (partner and one year old kid) are going to canada in august. its a roadtrip so we are going to have a car. We are doing one night niagara falls, 3 nights toronto, 2 nights ottawa, 2 nights quebec and three nights montreal. Or 3 quebec and 2 Montreal? something you can recomed about it? thank you very much, it was very helpful
If it was me, I would do 3 nights Quebec and 2 Montreal. Quebec will be a nice place to slow down after Niagara Falls and Toronto. It’s a great city to bake in some extra time to enjoy the scenery, restaurants, etc. BUT, if you just LOVE the city vibe, shopping, and different neighborhoods to check out, then Montreal.
Hello! I’ll be taking my Kiddos to Canada in a few weeks ( 16 & 17) they like action and stuff to do. Please give me recommendations and where to stay.
Thanks so much!
For teens, I would say Montreal. There is more to do and some really cool hipster neighborhoods. More shopping and the bike ride along the Lachine Canal to Atwater Market is a great way to spend the afternoon. There’s a lot going on in Montreal during the summer months (festivals, shows, markets).
Hello!
I am going to visit Canada for the first time for a short weekend in early October and was wondering whether Quebec City or Montreal was a better fit for my trip? I am from the New York City area so I am pretty familiar with a city vibe and am looking for something different with a lot to do and really good food haha! I am only going to be there for two full days so I was wondering which one was better to visit? Thanks so much and loved this article!
If I was coming from NYC, looking for something different, great food, and only had 2 days, I would choose Quebec City. The restaurant scene is great and it feels like a mini-Europe. While Montreal has “more to do”, it’s more of your typical city. Quebec City is more charming and offers a change from the NYC vibe.