Embrace the quiet beauty of a classic Canadian winter on this seven-day journey connecting Quebec’s two distinct cultural hubs. Travel between Montreal and Quebec City by train, enjoying snow-dusted urban design and historic architecture without the stress of winter driving. You will explore historic old quarters, join costumed local historians on fortified streets, and spend a highly anticipated night at the iconic Hôtel de Glace.
Landsby is a Preferred Partner with VIA Rail – take the train to Montreal to enjoy this experience. Contact us to add your rail tickets.
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN MONTRÉAL
Arrive in Montréal and make your way to your downtown hotel. Step into the rhythm of the city, a blend of French flair, design, and gastronomy. Spend your first evening settling in and adapting to the crisp seasonal pace, exploring nearby restaurants, or strolling through illuminated winter streets.
Accommodation: Hotel Bonaventure Montréal (or similar)
DAY 2: OLD MONTRÉAL AND WINTER DISCOVERY
Spend the day exploring Old Montréal at your own pace, where 17th-century architecture meets contemporary French-Canadian culture. Head down to the historic Old Port, where you have the option to rent skates for a quintessential winter moment along the riverfront rink, taking in panoramic views of the snowy city skyline and the heritage architecture.
Accommodation: Hotel Bonaventure Montréal (or similar)
DAY 3: OLD MONTRÉAL AND WINTER DISCOVERY
Enjoy another full day of self-guided exploration. Admire the landmark Gothic Revival architecture of Notre-Dame Basilica, visit local art museums, or wander through the historic streets of Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End. Montréal’s vibrant design boutiques and cozy cafes offer endless options for discovery, while the city's extensive underground network provides an inviting way to experience shops and galleries while staying warm.
Accommodation: Hotel Bonaventure Montréal (or similar)
DAY 4: MONTREAL TO QUEBEC CITY AND THE HÔTEL DE GLACE
Board VIA Rail for a scenic journey through Québec’s snow-covered countryside to Québec City. Upon arrival, make your own way to the shuttle departure point in the historic upper city, then transfer to Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier for an unforgettable night at the Hôtel de Glace, North America’s only hotel made entirely of ice and snow. Enjoy a cocktail served in an ice glass before settling in for this one-of-a-kind overnight experience.
Accommodation: The Ice Hotel
DAY 5: RETURN TO QUÉBEC CITY & HISTORIC DISCOVERY
Enjoy breakfast and spend a leisurely morning enjoying the Hôtel de Glace site before the shuttle returns you to downtown Québec City. Check in to your central accommodation and spend the rest of the day exploring the snowy Upper Town. Walk along the top of the historic ramparts, look out over the frozen river from Dufferin Terrace, and take time to sample Québec’s winter cuisine.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hôtel Manoir Victoria (or similar)
DAY 6: WALKING TOUR OF OLD QUÉBEC
No visit to Québec City is complete without a walk through the heart of the Old City, which is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today follow your guide off the beaten path! Historical characters will let you experience 400 years of the city’s captivating past. In addition to the Château Frontenac, the Dufferin Terrace and the Notre-Dame-de-Québec Cathedral Basilica, the tour will also take you to the Petit-Champlain district and Place Royale to admire numerous 17th and 18th century buildings.
Accommodation: Hôtel Manoir Victoria (or similar)
DAY 7: RETURN TO MONTRÉAL BY TRAIN
Make your way to the train station for your return to Montréal. Enjoy the ride back, reflecting on a week of Quebecois culture, craftsmanship, and winter warmth. Your winter getaway concludes upon arrival at the Montreal train station
