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 1.25 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. If you find yourself Googling Montreal or Quebec City…continue reading below so I can help steer you in the right direction.
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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 in their life. 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.
The short and sweet answer to Quebec City vs Montreal
Since you’re reading this post on Quebec City vs Montreal, I'll assume you are either short on time or would like to explore one city to the fullest and not feel rushed. Therefore, fitting both cities in your itinerary is not an option.
If you want the quick answer on Montreal vs. Quebec City, I would say Quebec City should be your first pick. Save Montreal for your second trip to the Quebec province.
Quebec City offers plenty of views...both city and nature
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.
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 French bistros, will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time to a cozy French town.
Try to visit Petit Champlain early in the day and late at night. This is every other travelers’ 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 Chateau Frontenac
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.
Quebec City is also minutes away 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 Niagra Falls in height by about 100 feet.
To sum it up, if you seek charming streets to wander, endless Instagram photo opps, a city that is easily navigable by foot, solid restaurant options, and nature escapes right next door, 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 actually 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 to this area.
Get a 180 contrast 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. Hop next door to Little Italy and visit the Jean Talon Market, North America’s largest and most colorful public market.
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Montreal is made 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 your jam, then Montreal is your best bet when debating Montreal vs. Quebec City. Quebec City has a very similar feel throughout, where 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. Or, if you're visiting during the warmer months, an excellent workout by using the cheap city bikes and riding all over the city.
I visited in summer and didn’t use the metro once. Instead, I biked all over the city. I by no means bike often when at home, yet, I felt completely comfortable and safe exploring Montreal by 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.
You might not have a 272 foot waterfall on your doorstep like Quebec City, but there are still 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 goes on and on naming the varying themes. This is not only fun for tourists but also locals, so it’s a great way to mix with Montreal residents.
Summary of Quebec City vs Montreal
To sum up Montreal vs Quebec City. If you’re looking for a city that has variety in everything from its neighborhoods to its 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. It offers a charming European atmosphere and the opportunity to relax and slow down. Montreal on the other hand can keep you busy till all hours of the night (or morning) and provides plenty to keep even the quickest paced tourist happy.
So, are you looking for charm or for big city liveliness? International variety or a quintessential French vibe. These questions will help answer which is your best option when debating Montreal vs Quebec City.
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
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Quebec City vs. Montreal - Which Should You Visit?
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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!! Thank you for this post – I’ve been going back and forth haha. We are going in August and have 5 days. Do you think it makes sense to split the time or stay Montreal and do a day trip to Quebec City?
Hi Destinie, I would do both cities. 3 nights in Montreal and 2 in Quebec City. That will allow enough time in both places. You can fly into one city and out of the other and take the train between Montreal and Quebec City. That is my personal suggestion 🙂
This post was EXACTLY what I was looking for! Even though now I just want to visit both cities haha. But thank you for all of the info, it was still really helpful to know the differences between the two!
I’m so glad it helped! I was in the exact same dilemma when I was planning my trip. Enjoy Canada!
I am so delighted on how you have let us imagine of what both cities can offer, as I have yet to decide if I will explore Montreal in my future trip. I have a short sidetrip in Quebec City when I first arrived in Canada, and I couldn’t agree more of the way you described the city when it comes to it’s instagrammable picturesque. Now I would definitely want to go to Montreal to see it with my own eyes. Thanks a lot.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the post! I really loved Montreal because it was a city I could actually imagine living in.
Both cities have i’ts own uniqueness. Quebec city is also one of the best city. I love to visit Montreal because of the people are very polite, humble and co operative, also i do remember some places like Mount royal, Notre dame basilica etc are one of the best places to visit here. Thanks for this information on this, subscribed your blog..
So glad you enjoyed this post and your time in Canada!
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.