Winter Adventures in Québec: Montréal, Mont Tremblant, Québec City & Mauricie - 12 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Montréal, Ride La Grande Roue de Montréal

Welcome to Québec's largest city, Montréal, nestled on an island in the St. Lawrence River. Upon arrival, pick up your rental car at the airport, then drive to your hotel to freshen up. When you're ready, make your way to the Old Port to ride La Grande Roue de Montréal, Canada's largest observation wheel, set on the riverbanks. Each pod is climate-controlled, so you'll be kept warm as you take in panoramic views of the cityscape and tranquil water below. End the night along Rue Sainte-Catherine, a street in the downtown core lined with an array of restaurants offering cuisines from around the world. 

Day 2: Free Morning in Montréal, Tour the Jean-Talon Market 

Enjoy a free morning to explore Montréal at your own pace. If you're looking for an active adventure, you could trek up Mount Royal. There are plenty of trails depending on your skill level, but the hike to the summit typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. Enjoy panoramic views of the city's skyline and the St. Lawrence River from the top. To warm up, head to Space for Life, a museum complex that includes a biodome, insectarium, botanical garden, and planetarium, offering a comprehensive journey through different ecosystems, from the ocean's depths to the vastness of outer space.

After exploring the museums, you'll join a food tour, starting at 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. Beyond its gastronomic delights, the market also serves as a cultural hub, hosting live music performances, cooking demonstrations, and community events throughout the year. When you're done in the market, explore the surrounding Little Italy neighborhood and sample local specialties to end the culinary tour.

Day 3: Drive to Mont-Tremblant, Explore at Leisure

Trade the bustling city streets for snow-covered mountains as you set off on a 1.5-hour drive to Mont-Tremblant, a charming ski and resort town in the Laurentian Mountains. As you drive, watch the landscape transition from a busy metropolis to rolling hills and dense forests. If you want to stop anywhere, the charming Ville Saint-Sauveur is a good option. Stroll down the picturesque streets, where you can shop for souvenirs, sample local delights, or partake in outdoor adventures like ziplining or hiking.

Back in the car, complete the drive to your hotel to freshen up, then enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You could stay in the town itself, as it offers a thriving shopping, dining, and bar scene, or venture into the backcountry to hike, snowshoe, ride a snowmobile, or even go dogsledding. Even though you didn't hit the slopes today, end the night with après-ski activities to unwind. Relax by a cozy fireplace, sip hot chocolate or mulled wine, and enjoy live music and entertainment in the village.

Days 4-5: Ski Days in Mont-Tremblant, Scandinave Spa Afternoon

The next two days are devoted to outdoor adventures on the slopes of Mont-Tremblant. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are trails and runs suited to every skill level. You could even book on-site ski lessons to learn the basics or improve your technique. Take the ski lift to the top of your chosen run and set off down the mountain. When you're done, warm up in one of the cozy chalets with a hot chocolate and a hearty meal.

For a more leisurely experience, try out cross-country skiing, or experience other local activities like dogsledding or snowmobiling in the backcountry. You could even book an ice fishing trip, even if you have no fishing experience. Your guide will teach you how to drill through the thick ice and drop your line into the cold waters to catch fish like walleyes, northern pikes, and different types of trout. 

After each day on the slopes or in the backcountry, unwind at Scandinave Spa Mont-Tremblant, nestled in the Laurentian Forest. If you're feeling adventurous, try one of the refreshing cold plunges before dipping into the hot baths. Relax in the wood-fired saunas or book a therapeutic massage to remove your knots. In the evening, return to the village and choose from an array of cozy cafés, casual eateries, and fine-dining restaurants for dinner. 

Day 6: Drive to Québec City, Visit Montmorency Falls, Explore Old Québec

Bid farewell to Mont-Tremblant this morning as you hit the road on a four-hour drive to Québec's capital, Québec City. Pass through Montréal, driving along Autoroute 40. Stop en route to visit the popular town of Trois-Rivières, which has an array of eateries, museums, and attractions like the Forges du Saint-Maurice, the first iron mine and refinery in North America. Before checking into your hotel, drive to Montmorency Falls, just 10 minutes outside the city. 

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. If it's cold enough, the falls may even freeze partially or entirely. After admiring the natural wonder, return to the city to discover the UNESCO-listed Old Québec. Wander past landmarks like the iconic Fairmont Château Frontenac, a grand hotel perched atop the city's cliffs, or Place Royale, where Québec City was officially founded.

Day 7: Visit the Hôtel de Glace & the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec

Don your warmest clothes and make your way to the Hôtel de Glace, the only ice hotel in North America. It's open from January to March and is made entirely of ice and snow. Step inside to see the shimmering ice sculptures, intricate ice carvings, and crystalline corridors. Admire the ice chandelier in the grand foyer, then wander through the elaborately themed suites. Unwind with a cocktail at the ice bar, or take a whirl on the ice slide to end the self-guided hotel tour. 

Continue to the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec next to browse the extensive fine arts collection from the 17th century to the present day. Look out at the masterpieces from Québécois artists alongside works by renowned Canadian and international creators. Browse permanent exhibitions focusing on art in the early French colonies to contemporary works. Don't miss the Brousseau Collection of Inuit Art, one of the museum's highlights.

Day 8: Dogsledding in the Countryside, Explore the Quartier Petit Champlain

This morning's winter activity is sure to be a memorable one as you experience the thrill of dogsledding across Québec's snow-covered countryside. Meet the dogs and your guide, also known as a musher, who'll explain how to drive and steer your sled on the well-groomed forest trails. When you're ready, step aboard and lead your dogs into the forest. Don't be nervous about having control; a guide will always be nearby if you need help. As you navigate the trails, look out at the pristine winter landscape stretching out before you. Afterward, head back to the lodge to warm up with a drink and snack.

If you're lucky, you'll be able to visit the kennels for some quality time with the dogs before returning to your hotel. Those who want to explore more of the city can wander through the Quartier Petit Champlain, a charming neighborhood that blends history, culture, and artisanal charm. Pop in and out of the quaint boutiques, cozy cafés, and art galleries to look for unique artwork or souvenirs. End the night with a Canadian classic that originated in Québec—poutine—a simple dish of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.

Day 9: Drive to Mauricie, Cross-Country Skiing in La Mauricie National Park

Say goodbye to Québec's capital this morning and drive four hours to Mauricie, a region of lush forests, winding rivers, and pristine lakes that beckons outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Break up the drive with a stop in Shawinigan, a charming city on the Saint-Maurice River, to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. Back in the car, head straight to La Mauricie National Park, a haven for wildlife, including black bears, moose, wolves, beavers, and 193 species of birds.

There's plenty to do here, but cross-country skiing is the most popular activity, as there are 53 miles (85 km) of trails that lead to scenic viewpoints. Strap on your skis and set off down the well-maintained trails through the forest and along the shores of frozen lakes. There are a variety of trails to choose from, including gentle loops for beginners and more challenging routes that will satisfy seasoned skiers. When you're ready, head to your hotel to check in and warm up. 

Day 10: Winter Activities in La Mauricie National Park

Before you return to the city tomorrow, spend one more day soaking up the frozen natural landscapes in Mauricie. Return to the national park to go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, or dogsledding. If you didn't get the chance to ice fish in Mont-Tremblant, you can try to catch perch, trout, or pike here. Winter is also a good time for wildlife viewing in the area, so keep an eye out for deer, moose, and bird species like snow buntings or black-capped chickadees. Finally, those who want to go ice skating can head to Domaine Enchanteur to skate through the forest down frozen trails.

Day 11: Drive to Montréal, Visit Atwater Market, St. Lawrence River Cruise

Your penultimate day in Canada takes you back to Montréal for one more day of sightseeing. Break up the four-hour drive with another stop in Trois-Rivières to stretch your legs and grab something to eat. After checking into your hotel, you could head to Atwater Market in the lively Saint-Henri district to browse the stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and gourmet treats. Indulge in local delights, such as bagels, maple syrup, and smoked meats, then wash everything down with a fresh apple cider. 

When darkness falls, head 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 Jacques-Cartier Bridge, the Olympic Stadium from the 1976 Summer Olympics, and the Notre Dame Basilica of Montréal. Learn about the history of each landmark with the complimentary audioguide available in eight languages. After 3.5 hours on the water, return to the port and find a restaurant in Old Montréal for dinner.

Day 12: Visit the Jean-Talon Market, Depart Montréal

Your 12-day winter adventure to some of Québec's most iconic cities and natural landscapes draws to a close today. If you have some time before your flight, you could explore more of the city on your own. Return to the Jean-Talon Market to pick up some last-minute souvenirs or head to the Notre Dame Basilica of Montréal for an up-close look at the Gothic-Revival style building. Step inside to marvel at the grand altar, ornate wood carvings, and mesmerizing celestial blue ceiling. When it's time, drive to the airport, drop off your rental car, and head inside for your flight home. Safe travels!