Self-Drive Eastern Canada Highlights: Toronto, Niagara Falls, Montréal, Québec City & Charlevoix - 15 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Toronto (Ontario), Self-Guided City Walk

Welcome to Canada's largest city and Ontario's capital, Toronto! When you arrive, pick up your rental car and drive to your downtown hotel to unwind before venturing to explore the city. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is a good place to start, where you can learn about the country's culture, history, art, and natural wonders, including First Nations artifacts. Alternatively, check out Fort York on the city's west end or head uptown to discover Casa Loma, North America's only castle.

Admire the 20th-century Gothic Revival architecture before discovering the opulent furnishings and decor inside. Explore the castle independently or join a guided tour to learn more about its history as a residence, military hub, and, most recently, a filming location. Back downtown, end your self-guided city tour in the Distillery District, a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood full of Victorian-era industrial architecture that now houses shops, galleries, and eateries. Grab a drink from one of the craft breweries, then wander the charming streets to spot street art and outdoor performances.

Day 2: Drive to Niagara Falls via NOTL, Voyage to the Falls Experience

Trade the bustling city for one of North America's most famous natural wonders, Niagara Falls, as you set off on a 1.5-2 hour drive. En route, stop in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a picturesque town full of 19th-century clapboard architecture, tree-lined streets, and lush floral displays. Wander down the main street to visit the charming boutiques and indulge in maple fudge or an ice cream cone before carrying on to a nearby winery to tour the vineyard and sample local varietals. Don't leave without trying ice wine, made from grapes left to freeze on the vine, concentrating their sugars and flavors, and pick up a bottle in the gift shop.

When it's time, continue along the scenic Niagara River Parkway south, away from Lake Ontario, toward Niagara Falls. Upon arriving, park your car and set out on foot to relish the power of the Horseshoe Falls as you watch the water speed over the precipice. Next, you'll don your recyclable poncho and board a boat to ride past the American and Bridal Veil Falls toward Horseshoe, where you'll immediately be enveloped by its mist and thundering roar. Take the rest of the day to explore Niagara Falls as you like before settling into your hotel for the evening.

Day 3: Return Drive to Toronto, Visit the CN Tower, Discover Kensington Market

After breakfast, drive back to Toronto to see more of the city's landmarks, like the iconic CN Tower, the world's tallest freestanding structure until the Burj Khalifa was built in Dubai. Head to the lower observation level, where you can walk on a glass floor and look at the ground 1,122 feet (342 m) below you. Then, take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario through the floor-to-ceiling windows or outdoor terrace. If you're hungry, stop at the revolving restaurant to enjoy a gourmet meal with ever-changing views. 

Try not to fill up too much, as your next stop may be Kensington Market, an eclectic neighborhood with a multicultural mix of supermarkets, street food, hole-in-the-wall boutiques, and vintage clothing stores. Pop in and out of the different shops or immerse yourself in the neighborhood's diverse culinary scene by trying popular dishes like jerk chicken, arepas, tacos, or the French Canadian poutine (fries smothered in cheese curds and gravy). If you want to experience Toronto's vibrant nightlife, go to Queen Street West, a trendy neighborhood known for its diverse array of bars, clubs, and live music venues. 

Day 4: Drive to Montréal (Québec), Explore & Ride the Observation Wheel

Say goodbye to Toronto this morning as you set off on a six-hour drive east to Montréal, Canada's second-largest city and Québec's largest. Discover Montréal's French-soaked history, a famous food scene, and cultural attractions. Stroll through the lively downtown and head down to the St. Lawrence River, where you'll find market stalls, the Old Port, boat trips, and the observation Ferris wheel.

Once in the Old Port, wander down the promenade and enjoy picturesque views of the river and city skyline. Stop at Bonsecours Market to peruse the treasure trove of artisanal boutiques, craft shops, and gourmet eateries. Then, take a ride on La Grande Roue de Montréal, Canada's largest observation wheel, set on the riverbank. Enjoy panoramic views of the historic district, Old Montréal, and the modern skyline from your climate-controlled pod before ending the night at one of the restaurants overlooking the water or enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Day 5: Free Morning, Afternoon Mile End Food Tour

The morning is yours to spend as you wish. You might like to drive or hike to the top of Mount Royal, known simply as "The Mountain" by locals. There's plenty to do in the mountaintop park, from enjoying panoramic views of the city, picnicking on the grass, or picking up one of the many trails to traverse. You could also stop at Smith House to learn about the park's history, ecology, and recreational activities if you're unsure what to do.

In the afternoon, meet your guide for a food tour in Mile End, a laid-back neighborhood with an artsy vibe full of delicious Canadian and international food.

Your guide will tailor the tour to your tastes, but you may start with a Montreal-style bagel, renowned for its distinctive chewy texture and slightly sweet flavor, at St Viateur Bagel. Then, your next stop might be a deli to indulge in a classic smoked meat sandwich piled high with thinly sliced beef brisket. You can't leave without trying the beloved Canadian dish that originated in Québec, poutine. End the food tour at one of the area's top breweries to wash everything down with a craft beer.

Day 6: Drive to Mont-Tremblant, Free Afternoon

Bid farewell to Montréal this morning as you set off on a 1.5-hour drive to Mont-Tremblant, one of Canada's top ski resorts. Even if you're not visiting in winter, there's plenty to do here year-round, especially in the surrounding national park. When you arrive, check into your hotel, then head to the Panoramic Gondola for a ride to the mountain's summit. From the top, enjoy scenic views of verdant forests, sparkling lakes, and rugged peaks as far as the eye can see. Follow one of the scenic hiking trails or grab a bite to eat at the mountaintop restaurant before luging or taking the gondola back down.

Consider booking yourself in for a spa treatment, from massage to alternating between dipping into a cold plunge or hot bath, followed by warming up in a wood-fired sauna. In the evening, return to the village and choose from an array of cozy cafés, casual eateries, and fine-dining restaurants for dinner. End the night with a classic Canadian treat: beaver tail (a deep-fried, flat pastry with your choice of topping, like cinnamon sugar, chocolate hazelnut spread, or fruit compote).

Day 7: Explore Parc National du Mont-Tremblant, Zipline Down the Mountain

Immerse yourself in nature today as you head to Parc national du Mont-Tremblant (Mont-Tremblant National Park) on your own, the oldest national park in the province. There are plenty of activities to choose from, including hiking along scenic trails, fishing for native species, or searching for wildlife like moose, deer, beavers, and black bears. If you visit during the winter, you could also choose from seasonal activities like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Those who want a more relaxing day can visit Lac Monroe, a tranquil lake surrounded by lush forests, to swim in the clear waters or rent a kayak and paddle across the surface.

In the afternoon, return to the village and head over to the Adventure Centre in the Sommet des Neiges building to check in for your five-zipline course. After checking in and completing a safety briefing, you'll ride the gondola to the summit of Mont-Tremblant. From there, you can walk to the first and shortest zipline. Ride down the mountain, soaring above the forest canopy and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The course will take you back to the bottom of the mountain, but not before you complete the longest zipline, which is a staggering 3,500 feet (1,066 m). 

Day 9: Day Trip to Jacques-Cartier National Park, Evening River Cruise

Leave the city behind for the day as you drive less than an hour to Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier (Jacques-Cartier National Park) to explore the pristine forests, meandering rivers, and rugged mountain peaks at your own pace. Follow one of the many hiking trails or partake in activities like canoeing, kayaking, or wildlife watching to spot moose, black bears, and beavers. If you want to hike, there's a route suited for every skill level and interest, but if you're overwhelmed by the choices, you could book a guided tour that will take you to scenic viewpoints, revealing panoramic views of the park's natural beauty.

After a day in the park, return to your hotel in the city to relax, then venture out on an evening cruise down the St. Lawrence River. As you cruise the tranquil waterway, look out at the illuminated skyline and spot landmarks like Fairmont Château Frontenac and the historic Old Port. After 3.5 hours on the water, return to the shore and spend the evening as you choose. 

Day 10: Day Trip to Île d'Orléans

Your last full day in Québec City is yours to spend as you wish. Consider visiting Île d'Orléans (Island of Orleans) on the St. Lawrence River, one of Québec's first colonies. When you arrive, rent a bike to cycle along the waterfront, stopping at quaint roadside stands to sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade treats. Explore historic sites such as the Église Sainte-Famille (Sainte-Famille Church) and the Maison de nos Aïeux (House of Our Ancestors), where you can learn about the island's colonial past and the lives of its early settlers.

Don't miss the Chocolaterie de l'Ile d'Orleans on the island's western tip to sample delicious Belgian chocolate. If you're visiting during summer, indulge in homemade ice cream instead. End your self-guided island tour at a local vineyard, where you can learn about the region's favorable climate and soils, ideal for grape growing. Engage in a guided tasting of the vineyard's wines, ranging from crisp whites to robust reds overlooking the river. Many vineyards on the island have an on-site restaurant, so you can sit down for dinner following your tour. 

Day 11: Drive to Charlevoix via Montmorency Falls, Explore the Region

Enjoy your final breakfast in Québec City, then hit the road for a one-hour drive northeast to Charlevoix, a tranquil region known for its natural landscapes, artistic charm, and gourmet delights. On the way, stop at Montmorency Falls, just 10 minutes outside the capital. There are many ways to see the falls, from hiking to different viewpoints, taking a cable car to the top, or crossing a suspension bridge with the roaring water below you. No matter which vantage point you see the falls from, you're sure to be impressed by the 272-foot tall (83 m) cascade that's 98 feet (30 m) taller than Niagara Falls.

Grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant, Manoir Montmorency, then jump back in the car and complete your drive to your hotel in Charlevoix. After freshening up, venture out to explore the region on your own. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, visit one of the nearby national parks, such as Parc National des Grands-Jardins or Parc National des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie, for a scenic hike. Those who prefer to explore by car can drive down the Route des Montagnes, winding through rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque valleys.

Day 12: Whale Watching Tour, Visit L'Isle-aux-Coudres

Get ready for what's sure to be a memorable activity as you set off on a three-hour whale watching tour on the St. Lawrence River at the mouth of the Saguenay River. Keep your eyes peeled for signs of activity as the boat glides through the crystal-clear waters. A naturalist will also be onboard to help you spot these graceful creatures. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may spot belugas, minke, humpbacks, fin, and blue whales. If you're visiting between May and October, you have the best chance of seeing them, but whales can be spotted here year-round.

After three hours on the water, the rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish. You could take a ferry to L'Isle-aux-Coudres from Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive to discover the charming island. When you arrive, rent a bike and cycle past historic windmills, quaint farmhouses, and lush orchards. Stop at roadside stands to sample local specialties, like apple cider, maple syrup, and fresh-baked bread. Take in panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscapes from scenic lookout points, then relax on the rocky shores overlooking the water.

Day 13: Return Drive to Montréal, Visit Montréal Museum of Fine Arts

Your eastern Canada road trip takes you back to Montréal today on a four-hour drive, passing through Québec City and Trois-Rivières, where you can stop again to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. When you arrive, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace. You could visit the Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal (Montréal Museum of Fine Arts) to browse the array of masterpieces spanning centuries and continents. Discover each exhibit, from classical sculptures to contemporary installations, to appreciate the work of renowned artists and emerging talents. 

Continue to one of the oldest Chinatowns in North America to shop or indulge in traditional dishes. Step through the ornate gate adorned with colorful dragons to enter the bustling neighborhood lined with Asian grocery stores, traditional bakeries, and authentic Chinese restaurants. Sample local delights, such as Peking duck or barbecue pork, then pop in and out of the shops to look for souvenirs. Don't fill up too much, so you can end the night in Plateau Mont-Royal, a trendy neighborhood full of lively bistros, colorful cafés, and intimate eateries to find somewhere for dinner.

Day 14: Guided Sugar Shack Tour & St. Lawrence River Evening Cruise

Your penultimate day in Canada starts with a sweet treat as you join a guided tour of an authentic cabane à sucre (sugar shack). These rustic cabins are located in maple tree-rich forests that typically open during the maple syrup harvesting season between mid-February and April. However, some are open to guests year-round. When you arrive, tour the maple groves and learn about maple syrup production, from tree tapping to sap collection and boiling. After the tour, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch before spending a few hours on your own.

When darkness falls, get yourself to the Old Port to board a cruise down the St. Lawrence River. As the boat glides along the tranquil waterway, look out at landmarks like the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, the Olympic Stadium from the 1976 Summer Olympics, and the Notre-Dame Basilica. Learn about the history of each landmark with the complimentary audioguide. After 3.5 hours on the water, return to the port and find a restaurant in Old Montréal for dinner.

Day 15: Visit the Jean-Talon Market, Depart

After 15 days, your road trip across Ontario and Québec journey draws to a close today. If you have some time before your flight, you could explore more of the city independently. Head to the Jean-Talon Market, one of North America's largest open-air public markets, open year-round. Browse the stalls full of farm-fresh produce, artisanal cheese, delectable pastries, and seasonal delicacies. Grab one last Montréal-style bagel, poutine, or smoked meat sandwich. When it's time, drive to the airport, drop off your rental car, and head inside for your flight home. Safe travels!

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