places to visit from montreal to toronto

Toronto To Montreal Drive: 10 Incredible Things To See Along The Way

Experience a fun-filled road trip on this Toronto to Montreal Drive that passes by some of the region’s most incredible attractions and experiences.

The drive from Toronto Montreal is one of the most fantastic road trips in Ontario. Passing along the shores of Lake Ontario and the magical St. Lawrence River, the Toronto to Montreal drive is one of the greatest ways to experience some of the coolest and most accessible attractions in Ontario .

In fact, this Ontario road trip between Montreal and Toronto passes so many attractions that this 5-hour drive can easily be extended to a week or more if you try to hit all of the sites and things to do along the way.

Sure, you can drive straight up the 401 from Toronto to Montreal , but if you want to turn your drive into a memory-making experience , I’ll show you some of the best stops along the Toronto to Montreal route that will have you rethinking your route and planning another one for next year.

Canadian road trips are one of my favorite ways to see the country. My family has made epic road trips across Ontario, Canada, and even around the world in countries such as Iceland , Greece, and Finland . While we’ve experienced adventures around the world, our Ontario road trips remain in our hearts and souls.

About The Toronto To Montreal Drive

Table of Contents

Toronto and Montreal are two of Canada’s most iconic cities , but in terms of atmosphere, they are worlds apart.

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and the capital of Ontario . This sprawling metropolis is home to the CN Tower, a beautiful stretch of the Lake Ontario waterfront, epic music festivals, and much more. The city is huge, diverse, and full of hidden gems.

If you’re planning a trip to the city and are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of attractions, you can find our complete guide to visiting Toronto with kids here .

Montreal is the largest city in the province of Quebec . Although it’s not the capital, it is the center for much of the province’s culture, business, and foodie culture. Montreal is home to some of the nation’s most incredible music, comedy, and cultural festivals, such as the Montreal Jazz Festival and the Just for Laughs festival.

The province of Quebec is also Canada’s only province where French is the sole official language. Many locals also speak English, although knowing key French words will help make your visit easier.

So, if you are looking for great ideas for a road trip between Toronto and Montreal, check out all of these amazing attractions that I’ve listed below. If you do, you’ll never look at HWY 401 the same way again.

You can also use this as a guide for a road trip between Montreal and Toronto. Just flip the directions and start from the bottom. And if you’re considering extending your journey up to Quebec City , you can find our Toronto to Quebec City driving guide here.

What Is The Distance Between Toronto And Montreal?

The most direct distance between Toronto and Montreal is about 541 km (336 miles). It typically takes about five and a half to six hours to make the complete trip. This depends quite a bit on traffic and the number of stops you make along the way.

Traveling from Toronto to Montreal by car can mean running into some traffic. However, once you get out of the cities, traffic usually moves fairly quickly . If you are planning on exploring what to see between Toronto and Montreal, expect to take longer, up to a few days.

In this Ontario road trip guide, I’ll lay out the best things to see between Toronto and Montreal and give an idea of how long each attraction can take. That way, you can plan the most epic drive between Toronto and Montreal.

You might even have so much fun that you continue on up along the St. Lawrence River to spectacular sites like Quebec City , Rimouski , or even all the way east to Havre St. Pierre and the Mingan Archipelago .

Tips For A Drive From Toronto to Montreal (or Montreal to Toronto)

If you are looking to travel from Montreal to Toronto, here are a few road trip tips to help you stay happy and comfortable along the way. These road trip tips are helpful whether you are looking for a straight bomb between the two cities or if you are looking to check out the best attractions between Montreal and Toronto.

• Before you start out on your road trip between Toronto and Montreal, make a plan. But keep it flexible . You want to be able to stop and see something cool if it catches your eye.
• Pack a backroads map of Ontario . Sure, a GPS is great, but there is something far more intimate about having a physical map. You can mark it up with a Sharpie  and show your friends all the cool places you stopped along the way. Your friends will NOT believe that this trip was in Ontario!
• If you want to escape the traffic near Toronto during rush hour, you can take the HWY 407 toll road. You won’t miss many Ontario attractions by taking this route, but it can save hours if you drive during the Toronto rush hour. The 407 is an electronic toll highway . You won’t need cash, and you will receive the bill in the mail or through your car’s rental service.
• Stay entertained. Long road trips can get tiresome. And although there are plenty of stops between Montreal and Toronto to keep you occupied, you don’t want to get bored on those stretches in between. Check out our epic list of road trip jokes (family-friendly!). Fill your phone with music or audiobooks. My family loves listening to stories on long drives that we download from Audible .
• There are lots of gas stations along the Toronto to Montreal drive. Along HWY 401, there are many On Route stops that combine gas, food, and washroom facilities. However, once you get off the main road, it’s good to keep that gas tank filled up.
• Bring a camera! You are going to see some amazing things on this Toronto to Montreal road trip. Make sure you capture those memories and share them with family and friends. I like this one because it’s super tough and durable. You can even bring it in the water.

The Best Things To See On A Toronto To Montreal Drive

You’re ready to start your Toronto to Montreal road trip, and you want to see the best sites along the way.

Well, the first part is checking out the best things to do in Toronto . Things like Casa Loma, the Distillery District, the Lakefront, CN Tower, and more should be on your list. If you’re visiting Toronto for the Labour Day long weekend , I have a special list for you.

Once you get in the car, it’s time to make some ground and get this Toronto to Montreal drive in gear.

Step 1: Escape the Greater Toronto Area

Getting out of Toronto is the first step on a drive from Toronto to Montreal.

You can either head to the 401 and brave the traffic (it sucks all day, but is especially bad heading East in the afternoon between 3:30 pm and 8:00 pm). Or, you can head further north to HWY 407 ETR.

HWY 407 skirts the worst of the traffic between Toronto and HWY 412 in Whitby. Between Toronto and Whitby there really isn’t much to see, so choose the root that’s best for you, and crank up the tunes (or, in our case, audiobooks ), and get ready to make some ground.

If you are staying in Toronto for a few days, here are some family-friendly hotels in Toronto to enjoy.

Toronto to Montreal Stop 1: Port Hope Transformers, Oddities, And Old Towns

One of the most fascinating and fun stops on the Montreal to Toronto road trip is on HWY 28, a short distance off of HWY 402, shortly after you reach HWY 115 (about 45 minutes East of Toronto with normal traffic).

The gateway to the city of Peterborough and the Kawarthas and the wonders of the region such as Silent Lake Provincial Park , the Kawartha Lakes cottage country, and Petroglyphs Provincial Park , HWY 28 can lead you to an entirely different world of wonder in Ontario.

Exit on HWY 28 and follow the exit to Port Hope , Ontario. From here, hang a right and right again onto HWY 28 towards Peterborough. A short drive down the road and you’ll see one of the coolest shops in Ontario, Primitive Designs. You won’t be able to miss it. Just look for the massive Optimus Prime Transformers and massive metal dinosaur sculptures.

Primitive Designs

Primitive Designs (2762 County Road 28, Port Hope, L1A 3V6) sells some of the coolest stuff I have ever seen for sale in Ontario . From intricate stone sinks to sculptures, to crafts and artwork imported from around the world.

Find a parking spot and explore the store for a while, I’d recommend setting aside 45 minutes to an hour . It’s easy to get lost in here and find that you’ve spent hours examining weird, wonderful, and downright crazy trinkets and designs.

Kids (and adults) will be blown away by the life-size transformers and dinosaurs on display in the parking lot. You can check out the Primitive Designs website here .

Downtown Port Hope

If you prefer a small town feel to gigantic robots, instead of heading right on HWY 28, turn left and head towards downtown Port Hope .

Port Hope is packed with quaint antique shops, great restaurants, and more to explore. Downtown Port Hope is a great place to stop for a coffee and people-watch for an hour or so. If you are visiting during fall in Ontario , you can also try to catch the Port Hope salmon run that makes its way up the salmon ladder at Corbett Dam near McKibbon St.

Where To Stay In Port Hope

If you become so enchanted with the town of Port Hope that you opt to spend the night here, check out The Waddell Hotel . This Heritage District hotel, dating back to 1845 , is a short walk from Port Hope’s Capitol Theatre.

The hotel looks out over the Ganaraska River for pretty sunset views. You can find some more Port Hope accommodation options here .

Toronto to Montreal Stop 2: Apple Pies and Beautiful Beaches

Once you’ve finished exploring Port Hope, hop back on the 401 and make the 40-minute drive towards Presqu’il Provincial Park on the shores of Lake Ontario. But getting to Presqu’ile Provincial Park is half the fun on this Toronto to Montreal drive.

The Big Apple

You can’t miss the exit to reach Presqu’ile. It’s marked by the Big Apple pie factory . And when I say big apple, I really mean HUGE.

This enormous apple-shaped viewing platform is an Ontario icon . But it’s worth stopping into the Big Apple pie factory to snack on some of their famous pies. Browse the gift shop and grab some treats to take with you on your road trip to Montreal. I am a big fan of the caramel apple crumble myself . You can pick your pies ahead of time from their website here .

Presqu’ile Provincial Park

After you exit on HWY 25 for the Big Apple, head south and turn left on HWY2 . After a right on Union Rd and a left on Lakeshore, you won’t be able to miss the entrance to Presqu’ile.

Presqu’ile Provincial Parks i s one of our favorite Provincial Parks in Ontario (I’ve been to over 60 of these gems myself). This small, but beautiful piece of shoreline has excellent swimming, especially if you visit in late summer when the water is warm.

Make the short hike to the Presqu’ile lighthouse , enjoy a stroll along long stretches of beach, or just grab some grass in the scenic picnic area and relax for a while. If you want to do some camping on your road trip between Toronto and Montreal, this is a great stop to enjoy that as well. You can find our complete guide to Presqu’ile Provincial Park here.

Where To Stay Near Presqu’Ile Provincial Park

If you don’t plan on camping in Presqu’ile but want to spend a few days exploring this beautiful park, check out the Motel 6 in Trenton . It’s no luxury accommodation, but the rooms are big and airy , and it’s close enough to the park that you can get back to exploring as quickly as possible.

You can find some more accommodations near Presqu’ile Provincial Park here .

Toronto To Montreal Stop 3: Wineries, Beaches, And Mountain Lakes

About 45 minutes up the road from Presqu’ile is one of Ontario’s prime wine, beer, and foodie regions.

Prince Edward County is really where the Toronto to Montreal drive moves from fun to fascinating and beautiful . There are so many things to do in Prince Edward County that you could end up spending a few days here without seeing it all.

Prince Edward County is also where adventurous drivers will leave the 401 behind and start making their way along the shores of Lake Ontario via HWY 33. Whether you’ve got a few hours or a few days to spend, here are some tips on what to do.

Hit The Beaches Of The County

Prince Edward County has some of the best beaches in Ontario . Whether you’re looking for the scenic tropical feel of North Beach Provincial Park or the epic dunes of Sandbanks Provincial Park , you’ll have no trouble finding a spot to put up your umbrella and soak in the sun.

Just be aware that both North Beach and Sandbanks see huge crowds during the summer months , especially on the weekend. If you want to find a spot to park you’re going to need to book reservations ahead of time. You can do that here .

Wine And Breweries, and Food Tours

Prince Edward County is famous for its wineries and breweries . There are more great places to grab a drink popping up each year. Head to the county and visit the amazing vineyards and awesome craft breweries or taste some of the incredible local cuisine and artisanal cheeses.

If you’re staying in the county for a few days, consider signing up for a Prince Edward County wine tour so that you’re not driving between wineries. You can also sign up for a full-day tour of the peninsula that takes you to some of the most popular stops and a few under-the-radar attractions that you may not have heard of.

Where To Stay in Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is a big place and you’ll definitely want to spend a little time here .

We love spending the night glamping at Fronterra Farm near North Beach Park Provincial Park. These luxury glamping tents are absolutely gorgeous and you can paddle right across South Lake to North Beach Park.

In the town of Wellington, try to book a room at the beautiful Drake Devonshire. It has amazing food and one of the best waterfronts in the county .

If you prefer to stay close to Picton, then the Waring House Hotel is a classic and much-loved hotel that is close to all of the great Picton attractions. You can check out our guide to the best Prince Edward County hotels here .

Toronto To Montreal Stop 4: Drive Through History Along the Loyalist Parkway

From Prince Edward County you can either head back to the 401 and continue on the big highway towards Montreal, or you can make your way via the Glenora Ferry and along the historic Loyalist Parkway. Either way won’t change the stops along the way, but the route along the Loyalist Parkway is far more scenic .

The Loyalist Parkway, or HWY 33 skirts the coast of Lake Ontario through some of its most scenic and historic towns . Many of the towns were settled by the United Empire Loyalists that settled here as early as 1784.

The Loyalist Parkway is dotted with majestic colonial homes, quaint bed & breakfasts, and cozy diners. There are many places to stop along the route, whether you are looking to take in the views of the lakes and properties, or read the many historical plaques that identify many of the archeological and heritage sites along the way.

Traffic moves slowly along the parkway. But there is so much beautiful scenery, you probably mind. Don’t miss the picturesque town of Bath and Fort Henry National Historic Site . Here you can immerse yourself in 19th-century British military life.

The Loyalist Parkway will take you straight through to the city of Kingston.

Toronto To Montreal Stop 5: The Historic Town Of Kingston, Ontario

The Loyalist Parkway ends just inside the borders of the town of Kingston, Ontario.

This lovely lakeside city has been a hugely important town in Ontario’s history due to its proximity to both Montreal, Toronto, the St. Lawrence River, and Upstate New York . In fact, Kingston was the original capital of Canada from 1841 till 1843.

Kingston is a great spot to spend the night and break up your Toronto to Montreal road trip.

You can explore the town on the classic Kingston Trolley tours , visit the home of Canada’s first Prime Minister, take a tour of the notorious Kingston Penitentiary, and much more. If you’re like me and love spooky stories, check out the Kingston haunted walk guided tour .

Grab a bite at some of the great local eateries like Chez Piggy or Wooden Heads before heading off toward Montreal.

Where To Stay in Kingston Ontario

Kingston is a classic Canadian City. It has been the birthplace of some of the most important historical events, and even some of its most important music such as the legendary Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip .

With all of that history, it’s worth it to pick a great classic hotel in Kingston. The Rosemount Inn fits that bill to a tee. This boutique hotel offers the perfect combination of luxury and history. You can find some more great places to stay in Kingston here .

Toronto To Montreal Stop 6: Gananoque Thousand Islands Visitor Centre

Just half an hour up the 401 from Kingston on your drive to Montreal from Toronto is the small town of Gananoque. Gananoque is home to Thousand Islands National Park , and it’s something that shouldn’t be missed on Montreal to Toronto drive.

While much of the park is situated on the collection of Islands in the St. Lawrence River, there are still some great spots to explore and even camp or enjoy glamping on the mainland.

Gananoque is a picturesque community where thousands of visitors flock each summer to join Thousand Island boat cruises . If you are thinking of joining the 1000 island boat tours, there are a few options available. I recommend doing the longer 5-hour 1000 Islands Cruise that stops at Boldt Castle. Make sure to bring along your passport , as Boldt Castle is actually in New York State.

If you’ve got some more time to spare, you can do some exploring. You’ll find that there are actually several incredible castles in the Thousand Islands that you can visit.

Where To Stay in Gananoque and the Thousand Islands

Although we love staying in the Parks Canada oTENTiks when we are in the Thousand Islands National Park , sometimes you don’t want to haul your own bedding and want to be closer to an amazing breakfast.

Woodview Inn in Gananoque is a great option. It has excellent service and a wonderful on-site restaurant. You can find some more great places to stay in Gananoque here .

Toronto To Montreal Stop 7: Upper Canada Village

The next stop on your road trip between Toronto and Montreal is about an hour down the 401. Exit on Upper Canada Rd. and turn left onto HWY 2 (You can also continue up HWY 2 directly from Kingston if you want to replace the high speeds of the 401 with the serene scenery of the Lakefrtont).

Upper Canada Village

It’s been a long-running joke between Christina and me that re-enactment villages are the backbone of Ontario tourism.

From Fort William in Thunder Bay to Fort Malden in Amherstburg , It seems that every historic fort and town in the province is filled with people in period dress trying to hide their cell phones in the many layers of vintage clothing that they’re wearing. And when I first visited Upper Canada Village I totally expected the same thing.

I was right, but I was also wrong.

Yes, the Upper Canada Village is a reenactment village where staff dress in period attire and act like life centuries ago, But it’s done REALLY well .

From the old town mill where they actually sell the grain and yarn produced on-site to stores in the area, to the horse-drawn boat that rolls through the town, Upper Canada Village is great! It’s so good, that I insisted we bring our children back here so that they could experience it themselves. And they loved it too!

Upper Canada Village is not a quick-visit place either. It’s easy to spend hours, or even a whole day here exploring what truly feels like an 18th-century Ontario town. You can check out their website here .

Toronto To Montreal Stop 8: Brockville

The city of Brockville Ontario is a wonderful stop on the Toronto to Montreal road trip. This city sits on the northern edge of the Thousand islands and offers a great blend of history, scenery, and great restaurants.

With a charming waterfront and an historic downtown, Brockville can offer anywhere from a couple of hours to a few days worth of fun. Whether you’re there for a short time, or if you’ve got some time to spare there are a few things that you shouldn’t miss.

Brockville Rail Tunnel

The iconic Brockville Railway Tunnel is the top stop in the city. This marvel of engineering was the very first rail tunnel in Canada. The tunnel was originally built in 1860 to allow the Canadian rail network access to the harbor.

It’s use as a freight port is long behind it now, but the Brockville Rail Tunnel has been transformed into a engaging tourist experience, and it’s completely free.

Stroll through the LED lit tunnel and enjoy plaques and displays along the way that describe the history and importance of the tunnel.

Brockville Waterfront

The waterfront in Brockville is where all the action takes place. Lined with yachts and tour boats and speckled with lush green spaces, manicured gardens, and shaded picnic areas, this leisurely stop makes a wonderful place to enjoy lunch or just a relaxing break from the car seat.

The marina offers boat rentals, fishing charters and 1000 Islands boat tours allowing travelers to explore the St. Lawrence River through their favorite activity.

Where To Stay in Brockville

Brockvilles place along the Toronto to Montreal driving route makes it a wonderful spot to spend a night or two. The historic waterfront and ample attractions mean that you’ll have lots to do and see nearby.

48 King West is a luxury property in the heart of the city with easy access to great restaurants and the scenic waterfront. Noble Suites is an historic property near the waterfront that offers apartment-style accommodations that are great for those spending more than a night in town.

Brockville hotels can book up quickly, so if you’re thinking of stopping here, I recommend booking early. You can find more places to stay in Brockville here.

Toronto to Montreal Stop 9: Long Sault Parkway

Continue the scenic drive along the St. Lawrence River waterfront and you’ll come across an experience that most people in Ontario don’t even know exists.

Long Sault Parkway

Just a short drive down HWY2 from Upper Canada Village is one of the coolest island chains in the St. Lawrence River.

The Long Sault Parkway is a causeway connecting twelve islands with the mainland . The islands are actually the tops of hills that were flooded when the dams that control the flow of the St. Lawrence River were built. Look closely and you can still find roads that end abruptly beneath the waves.

The islands are managed by the Parks of the St. Lawrence and offer a series of beaches, campgrounds, and picnic areas . At the very least, Long Sault Parkway is worth the scenic drive through the island chain.

It’s also a beautiful place to camp for a night or a weekend. If you happen to drive through Long Sault or nearby Ingleside during the Canada Day long weekend (July 1), make sure to check out the amazing fireworks display launched over the islands.

I absolutely love the area, so much so that I did a three-day cycle route with Ontario by Bike from Cornwall down to Thousand Islands National Park through the Long Sault Parkway.

Where To Stay Near The Long Sault Parkway

You can rent camper cabins and family lodges from Parks of the St. Lawrence within the Long Sault Parkway.

Near the town of Long Sault, you can also stay at the Lion Motel or the Long Sault Motel . Both are nice, clean locations that are close to the town amenities and the parkway itself. You can find more accommodations near Long Sault here .

Toronto to Montreal Stop 10: Cornwall

With a scenic waterfront and an historic city center, one of Ontario’s most commercially-important locks, and miles and miles of cycling trails, Cornwall is a great stop for both history buffs and explorers.

The Cornwall Marina offers bycicle rentals for a great price. I discovered this during my bike trip along the St. Lawrence River when my front tire went kaput and I had to search for a bike to complete my 112 km journey.

There are a great range of cycling trails in the region and most of them are pretty flat and easy. The Waterfront Trail is my personal favorite. This route can take you from Cornwall all the way down past Long Sault to Thousand Islands National Park.

Historic District

There is nearly 240 years of history wrapped up in Cornwall, Ontario, so a visit to the towns historic district is a great way to experience the town.

Enjoy a stroll throughthe charming streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings that showcase architectural styles up to two centuries old. Don’t miss the Cornwall Jail on your tour. This building was built in 1833 and remained in operation for nearly 170 years.

Where To Stay In Cornwall

Cornwall is an historic city and it’s packed with great places to stay. For convenient comfort, the Best Western Parkway Inn & Conference Centre offers beautiful room with an upscale feel. The hotel has great access to all of the best things to do in Cornwall as well.

If you’d prefer a quaint bed and breakfast, Auberge Chelsey’s Inn is a fantastic (and family-friendly) spot not far from the water. The historic inn dates back to 1812 and is one of the most popular places to stay in Cornwall, Ontario.

If you don’t have any luck booking those spots you can check out a complete list of Cornwall accommodations here .

Getting To Montreal

From Cornwall to the Quebec Border is a quick 30-minute drive. Once you pass across the Quebec border, HWY 401 turns into Quebec Provincial HWY 20. and it’s another 40 minutes to Montreal.

Expect traffic to get heavier as you approach Montreal, especially if you are arriving during the morning rush hour. Once you’re there you can explore the old port, take in the views from Mount Royal, or cheer with the crowd at a Montreal Canadiens hockey game.

Where To Stay In Montreal

Montreal is a great city to explore. And now that you’ve made your Toronto to Montreal drive it’s time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. Start your trip off right with great accommodations in Montreal.

Montreal is divided up into distinct regions, and each one offers a unique experience. Old Montreal offers the most historic sites and tourist attractions. Le Plateau-Mont-Royal has a modern hipster vibe with loads of great coffee shops. Mile-end has a stylish and artsy vibe that is popular with families.

You can find some great deals on accommodations in Montreal here .

Have you ever done a Toronto to Montreal drive? Drop a note in the comments to tell us about your trip. Or, head over to our Facebook page and share a photo of your trip. We would love to hear about it!

If you love family travel as much as we do, please join our  Family Travel Support Group on Facebook . You can connect with more family travelers just like you who love to explore the world.

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Sunday 12th of March 2023

Hi, this article is fab and made us convinced to do the drive (family of 4 with 2x 8yr olds). Our only issue is that we only have 1 day to drive from Toronto area to Montreal. I assume we will only be able to fit a couple of bits in - what would your key highlights be? Thanks Alison

Monday 13th of March 2023

@Kevin Wagar, Thank you so much :)

Kevin Wagar

Hi Alison, if I were trying to make the most of the Toronto to Montreal drive in one day I would probably stop at Primitive Designs in Port Hope, The Big Apple for some treats, and include a drive through the Long Sault Parkway. Finish it with a walk through the Brockville train tunnel, and you've got a full day with lots of stops for adventure.

Tuesday 3rd of August 2021

Hello, What would you recommend for a 8 year old boy in Montreal itself? It’s just me and my son planing to go on a road trip to Montreal.

Tuesday 10th of August 2021

Check out the Montreal Biodome at the Olympic Stadium for some really cool experiences. Right next door is the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, which is also an "out of this world" experience. You can also take a short trip to nearby Laval and visit the very cool Cosmodome (I'll be launching an article about that this weekend) and paddle through the Parc de Riviere des Milles Isles.

Francis Xavier

Tuesday 15th of September 2020

Hi Kevin, Could you advise which area should i book a hotel to avoid driving in Montreal downtown but close enough and with conveninet public transport to tour the sites located in downtown. Thanks Francis

Hi Francis, Because Montreal is a set of islands, it's difficult to avoid the traffic completely. However, if you're looking to miss the worst of it I'd recommend staying in Mile End. This area is still relatively close and has a booming up and coming arts scene. You'll also find some of the best bagels in town. Consider the Bienvenue B&B or the Parc Avenue Residences for something clean, bright, and fitting with the local vibe.

Saturday 1st of August 2020

Hi Kevin, I really like the article and the details you have shared. I am planning a road trip with my family (wife and 2 yr old son) by end of August. We have around 4-7 days before we come back to Toronto. I am thinking of going to Montreal but want to see few places on the way to Montreal and coming back to Toronto. It would be great if you can share some suggestions.

Monday 3rd of August 2020

Thanks for the kind words. This will be a great trip. There are so many nice things to see. We have done this entire route from Toronto to Montreal and back again with young kids, so I'm sure your son will love it. As for what you want to see, that depends a lot of how you hope to plan your trip and what to see along the way. I highly recommend making sure the Thousand Islands make it into your itinerary, it's a wonderful place for parents and children alike. IF you're looking for something a little different, you can also visit a few of the places in this article and then detour through Ottawa on the way back. The Nations capital always makes for a wonderful stop.

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Toronto To Montreal Drive: 11 Fun Stops Along The Way

Posted on Published: August 25, 2022  - Last updated: April 22, 2024

Categories North America , Ontario , Travel

Living in Montreal, with family and friends in Toronto, I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve made the drive from Montreal to Toronto (and back!).

The goal is always to do the Toronto/ Montreal drive as quick as possible , only ever stopping once halfway between both cities for a necessary bathroom break.

Honestly, I never thought that there was anything worthwhile to stop at on the Montreal to Toronto drive… until the last time I made the drive back home to Montreal I decided to take my time. As it turns out, there are tons of places to stop on the way to Montreal from Toronto (or vice versa!).

From small Ontario towns to provincial parks or simply taking a detour with outstanding views. Not to mention a ton of family friendly activities to enjoy .

Maybe next time you’ll consider adding a few extra hours (or even a day to stop in Prince Edward County ) to your Montreal to Toronto drive. So here are my top 11 stops on the drive from Toronto to Montreal, or vice versa!

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

How Far Is Montreal From Toronto

Montreal and Toronto are about 540 km a part , or about a five and a half hour drive… if you’re lucky.

The problem with the Toronto to Montreal drive is that there’s always traffic .

If you’re driving from Montreal to Toronto, you’ll get stuck driving in to Toronto. There’s always traffic somewhere along the way but you’ll want to try your best to avoid driving during rush hour times.

Driving from Toronto to Montreal you can have issues leaving Toronto, and you’ll probably also get stuck at the bridge driving on to the Island of Montreal.

So more likely than not, you’re looking at a six to six and a half hour drive from Montreal to Toronto.

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Toronto To Montreal Drive – Is It Easy?

The Montreal to Toronto drive itself is almost too easy… For the most part you’re driving along highway 401 . The only problem is that they made it SO straight.

Like it’s so straight and so flat that it’s an extremely boring drive that can tire you out from boredom alone!

So although it’s easy in the sense that there aren’t any crazy twists and turns or obstacles. It’s hard to stay awake on the drive sometimes .

In a way, it’s good to turn the Toronto to Montreal drive into a road trip to avoid risking falling asleep at the wheel.

Need To Rent A Car For Your Toronto To Montreal Road Trip?

You can rent a car in both Montreal and Toronto. I love renting cars with Enterprise .

Depending on where you are, there are a Enterprise few locations in both Montreal and Toronto.

Top Stops On The Toronto To Montreal Drive

There are two types of stops on the Toronto to Montreal drive.

First, there are a few places to stop on the way to Montreal that are right off the highway . If you’re looking for some stops but don’t want to add too much time to your drive, these are the ones to do.

Otherwise, stops can be a 10 minute detour off the highway. They’re still worth the stop, but you just have to allot the appropriate amount time for that activity. And as always, it will most likely take longer than you think!

Related Top 50 Long Distance Road Trip Tips For A Safe & Easy Drive

P.S. Take Advantage Of ONroutes

The best part about the Montreal to Toronto drive are the ONroutes in Ontario .

ONroutes every 80km to 100 km or so and are directly off the highway so they don’t add any extra time to your drive. They have a gas station, bathroom, and restaurants with drive through options (but it’s always good to get out and stretch your legs a bit!).

They are pretty good with signs so you’ll always know when the next one is coming up.

1. Scarborough Bluffs Park

The first stop you can make on your way back to Montreal isn’t very far from Toronto at all! It’s in the neighbouring town of Scarborough at the Scarborough Bluffs Park.

It’s about a 10 minute detour off the highway because you’re driving back out to Lake Ontario. This stop will also depend on where you’re leaving Toronto from on whether or not it’s worth it for you to stop at.

It’s not off highway 401 so you’ll have to take a different route there.

I haven’t visited the Scarborough Bluffs yet but they’ve been added to my list for my next Toronto to Montreal drive.

The Scarborough Bluffs Park are actually 11 parks that have different hiking, walking, and biking trails . If you’re interested in taking a dip in lake Ontario, head to Bluffers Park for the beach.

2. The Big Apple

New York isn’t the big apple, this is the BIG apple… literally. The Big Apple is right off highway 401 on the Toronto to Montreal drive, and just under 2 hours from Toronto.

This is your fist quick place to stop on your way to Montreal. It’s right off the highway (you can even see it while driving).

If you’re travelling with kids, this is a great pitstop . They have an orchard, mini putt, a small petting zoo, and with a GIANT candy store!

But for the adults, there’s a nice bathroom to use that isn’t at an ONroute. And you can pick up a fresh apple pie with apple cider!

If you brought your dog along for the ride, there’s also a dog run here for your pup to stretch their legs a bit!

3. Presqu’Ile Provincial Park

This is the next place on my list to visit on my next Montreal to Toronto drive: The Presqu’ile Provincial Park .

It’s a bit off the highway but it’s worth it for an escape to nature. It’s actually the same exit as the Big Apple, but then it’s another 30 minute drive to the trail parking lot.

If you missed the Scarborough Bluffs Park you might want to consider stopping here instead. It’s a flat terrain so the hiking and biking paths are all easy.

If you have your bike it’s an 8km loop. Or hike one of their many trails (I recommend the marsh trail or the 20 minute walk to the lighthouse ).

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4. National Air Force Museum Of Canada

If you’re interested in planes and the Canadian air force you can stop at the National Air Force Museum of Canada . It’s only a 7 minute drive off the highway.

I’m not too interested in the Canadian Air Force, but I imagine that if you’re someone that is, this could be a very fun stop. It has a lot of glowing reviews.

The museum delves further into Canadian air force history, touching on WWII. And they have some pretty impressive displays with real planes!

5. Belleville Ontario

To be honest, there isn’t much going on in Belleville but I really liked this small Ontario town for the food and the unbeatable sunsets ! Seriously, if you can, try your best to be in Belleville for dinner and sunset.

We actually stayed in Belleville for two nights on our Toronto to Montreal road trip to be able to explore the nearby Prince Edward County for the day (just across the Belleville Bridge).

Heads up though, this is a small Ontario town… so when we were there on Monday and Tuesday night, the downtown was DEAD! Stores were closed and there was nobody around.

But it looked like it had a lot of potential in a few years, and maybe it’s busier on the weekends. I would still make sure to visit downtown Belleville for the view from the Dundas Street W Bridge – otherwise you can avoid it altogether for now .

Instead of visiting downtown Belleville, head to Zwick Island . There’s a park with a walking and biking trail that takes you along the water around the park. If you’re visiting in the summer, they also host Pop Ups On The Bay here with delicious food truck options. Plus you’ll get a view of the Belleville Bay Bridge and Prince Edward County across the bay.

But I also highly recommend going to the Meyer’s Pier for a similar view with some food and a drink. Sit outside on their casual patio dining (P.S. it’s also a great sunset spot! ). For delicious seafood, and a bit more formal seating, go to The Boathouse Seafood Restaurant . Make sure to ask for a seat outside on their floating dock!

Extend the drive from Montreal to Toronto and head to Prince Edward County 10 Things To Do In Prince Edward County That Aren’t Drinking

6. Kingston Ontario – Halfway Point On Toronto To Montreal Drive

Kingston is the largest city on the Montreal to Toronto drive and the official halfway point .

Whenever we drive past Kingston this is when you send the official driving status update to your family and friends.

Kingston is also when we usually have our one and only stop along the Toronto to Montreal drive. But with the amount of times I’ve driven by Kingston it was a bit sad that I hadn’t actually visited the city yet, and Kingston has a lot to offer!

If you take a bit of a longer detour on your Toronto to Montreal road trip, take the time to drive in to Kingston Ontario.

There’s Queen’s University and a bustling waterfront and downtown area. The main attraction though is the Kingston Penitentiary which operated from 1830 until 2013! Now it’s open to the public offering guided tours!

We really enjoyed the hidden Juniper Cafe in Kingston, between the Penitentiary and Queen’s University. It’s really hidden though – like we almost drove right by. It’s behind the Centre For Performing Arts, right on the water . Because it’s so hidden it’s a nice break from most busier cafes – plus I can’t complain about that view either!

If you’re looking to tour historic sites, visit the Murney Tower or Fort Henry .

From the Kingston Waterfront, you can also go on one of the many 1000 Islands Cruises . But don’t worry if you don’t get on one here, you will have more opportunities – Kingston is just barely the start of the 1000 Islands.

In downtown Kingston, you’ll want to check out Confederation Park and city hall. Walk behind city hall to Springer Market Square and hopefully the market is open for you to peruse.

Make sure to walk along Ontario Street and Princess Street for local shops and cafes.

P.S. we found paid street parking in the downtown area, but you can also go into a paid lot, there are a few around the city.

7. Gananoque (1000 Islands Cruise)

Not too far from Kingston is Gananoque – a small but mighty town! The architecture here is to die for, seriously, I could walk around the local streets all day admiring the homes!

Gananoque has a small city centre with restaurants and shops along King Street . We actually went a bit further out to eat at Stonewater Pub – it was delicious!

But Gananoque is the place to come if you want to do a 1000 Islands cruise . This is the towns rise to fame so it makes sense to do it from here.

7.5 Drive The 1000 Islands Parkway

I didn’t add this as a stop on your drive from Toronto to Montreal because you don’t need to stop anywhere here.

But if cruises aren’t your thing but you want to see some of the 1000 Islands, then you can drive the 1000 Islands Parkway instead.

The 1000 Islands Parkway is also the easiest detour on your Toronto to Montreal drive. It’s only a slight detour off highway 401 and now you get a drive with a view.

The detour starts just after Gananoque and brings you almost the entire way to Brockville , Ontario.

There are small parking lots along the way to safely stop and admire the view. You’ll be able to see the incredible homes that have been built on the smallest islands.

This is the only ‘stop’ that’s better to do on route from Toronto to Montreal than from Montreal to Toronto. That’s just because the direction you’re driving in and the side that the parking lots are on.

If you take the 1000 Islands Parkway on your way from Montreal to Toronto, you’ll be on the wrong side of the road. It’s obviously still doable, just a bit harder to turn into the parking lots.

8. Brockville Ontario – Toronto To Montreal Drive

Brockville Ontario is probably one of my favourite places to stop on the way to from Toronto to Montreal. It’s isn’t big, but it’s so quaint and hella cute!

We made a quick stop here for ice cream (at the Fudgery) on our Toronto to Montreal drive. The Fudgery has some of the best ice cream flavours I’ve ever seen though – I got a delicious key lime pie ice cream with pie crust chunks!

The main street in Brockville is (no surprise) King Street and it’s worth walking along for some shops and cafes. You’ll also want to walk (or drive by) the Brockville courthouse and Fulford Fountain.

If you have some more time, walk down to the Brockville waterfront and Marina. And in case you regret not taking a cruise after driving a long the 1000 Islands Parkway, you can still go on one from Brockville!

9. Prehistoric World

If you’re on a Montreal to Toronto drive with kids or a dinosaur lover (or both), then you have to stop at Prehistoric World.

It’s a 1 km walking trail through the prehistoric ages . They have life size dinosaur sculptures to learn about and take fun pictures with along your walk!

It also a very quick less than 5 minute detour off the highway on your Toronto to Montreal road trip.

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10. Upper Canada Village

Upper Canada Village is another family stop in Ontario on your Montreal to Toronto drive. It’s a bit more off the highway and more of a full day activity.

If you’re from Montreal, then you probably already know Upper Canada Village from on your third grade field trip with your school.

But if you don’t, Upper Canada Village is a heritage village with live actors dressed in costumes depicting how Canadian life was in the 19th century.

It’s more of an educational trip, but one that the whole families to enjoy! But you would need to carve out a bit more of your day if you want to visit Upper Canada Village.

11. Château Vaudrieul (Places To Stop On The Way To Montreal)

The Château Vaudrieul is your first or last stop on your Toronto to Montreal drive. Just like the Big Apple, Château Vaudrieul really isn’t out of your way at all – you can even see it from the highway!

I recommend stopping here for a meal on their outdoor terrace if you’re passing by in the summer. It’s all locally sourced ingredients!

For example, if you’re driving to Toronto from Montreal, head out early and stop here for a delicious breakfast. Breakfast is served between 7:00 and 10:00 A.M .. If you’ve already eaten, you can also stop here for a coffee.

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Bonus! Château Vaudrieul Alternative: Patates Et Persil

If you’re looking for a more casual places to stop from food on your Montreal to Toronto drive, you should check out Patates et Persil. It’s also on the water, but it’s more of an upscale casse-croûte (Quebec snack bar).

In the summer, take full advantage of the terrace on the water! But in the colder months, you can cozy up inside! Plus, the food is to die for here, they even have vegetarian poutine!

The only downside is that it’s closed on Sundays…

Staying In Montreal? Hotel Recommendations

I love going on staycations at Hotel Nelligan in the Old Port of Montreal. It’s in a great location, walking distance to everywhere you need to be. When you stay there you can’t miss out on their unique roof top terrace above the hotel. See room rates & availability .

I’ve also stayed at the newly built Homewood Suites in Montreal Midtown (west of the city) and I’d highly recommend it if you’re looking for a hotel that isn’t in the city centre. But they also have a branch downtown as well. It has a little kitchenette in every room and breakfast is included. Even though it isn’t downtown, you aren’t far from it. It’s walking distance to the Namur metro station, which will get you downtown in less than 20 minutes. See room rates & availability .

Here are some other alternatives I’ve heard about if you’re looking to stay in Downtown Montreal;

If you’re looking to stay in the heart of Downtown Montreal check out Auberge Les Bons Matins . This is a one of a kind stay perfect for a romantic getaway in Montreal. In this charming inn in Montreal, you’ll get a taste of local life. See room rates & availability .

You can also stay Le Square Phillips Hôtel & Suites if an auberge isn’t your style. Le Square Phillips Hôtel & Suites is in a supreme location in between the orange and the green metro line that get you anywhere else in the city. Breakfast is also included with your stay! See room rates & availability

For more accommodation options in Montreal, see Booking.com .

Staying In Toronto? Hotel Recommendations

I typically stay with family when I visit Toronto but I have stayed downtown once at the Radisson Blu Downtown Toronto. Located on Toronto’s harbour front, it was a very convenient location (plus you can upgrade your room for a view!). The highlight though of the hotel is by far the outdoor rooftop pool with an outstanding view of the CN Tower. See rates & availability on Booking.com.

If you’re looking to stay in downtown Toronto, One King West Hotel might be the one for you! Located on King Street you’re a short walk to all the main attractions, there are several tram stops, and the subway is just over a 5 minute walk away. See rates & availability on Booking.com.

Staying in Toronto can be quite expensive, Home in Downtown is budget friendly option to visiting the city. Although it has shared bathrooms, you have a private kitchen to use. Plus this apartment style stay has glowing reviews! See rates & availability on Booking.com .

See more accommodation options in Toronto on Booking.com .

P.S. If you’re looking for a long term stay for your family in Toronto, Industrial Luxe on Plum Guide has a minimum 30 night stay. You’ll be living in luxury the whole time you’re here with family movie nights on the projector and bean bags! See rates & availability on Plum Guide.

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My Toronto To Montreal Road Trip Necessities!

Read More Related Posts

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The Open Road Travel

• Dec 23, 2021

Road Trip From Montreal To Toronto

Updated: Dec 5, 2022

A Road trip from Montreal to Toronto takes you between Canada’s two most populous cities.

You’ll pass through the two largest provinces in Canada, Quebec and Ontario, travelling from the largest city in the former to the capital of the latter.

Along the way, you’ll see forests, lakes, rivers, wildlife, and countless attractions that are

synonymous with Canadian culture.

Read on to discover everything there is to do and see on your journey along the southern border of the “Great White North”.

A Road Trip From Montreal To Toronto: How Far Is It, How Long Will It Take To Get There & What Is The Best Route?

A road trip from Montreal to Toronto covers 540 kilometres (336 miles) and takes around 5 and ½ hours to complete.

However, despite its reasonable length, the journey is incredibly straightforward, essentially taking you along a single road that changes its name along the way.

You will begin by heading west on Quebec Route 136 and following it until it merges with Autoroute 20, just outside Benny Farm. You’ll follow this to the provincial border, where it becomes King’s Highway 401 as you pass into Ontario.

This will then take you the remaining 469 kilometres (291 miles) to Toronto.

Best Place To Stop On A Road Trip From Montreal To Toronto – Ottawa

While a road trip from Montreal to Toronto can easily be completed in a single day, those who want to make the most of the journey may want to consider taking a few detours and splitting their journey up, to ensure they experience everything there is on offer along the way.

The best place to stop on a road trip from Montreal to Toronto is the city of Ottawa. Located around an hours drive from our route, Ottawa is the capital of Canada, a position it has held since New Year’s Eve 1857, as well as the country’s 4th most populous city.

Originally settled as Bytown in 1826, the city of Ottawa was officially incorporated in 1855. It is a city well known for its historic architecture, lacking many of the skyscrapers prominent in other major Canadian cities.

It is particularly popular for its collection of architectural wonders, performing arts centres, heritage sites, and museums.

It’s also the primary home of the Federal Government of Canada, so will draw interest from those interested in Canadian politics or wanting to see the parliament buildings.

Ottawa even hosts a number of exciting festivals throughout the year, such as the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival, Ottawa International Jazz Festival, the main Canada Day celebrations, and Winterlude, the largest festival in the country.

Being slightly further from the United States border, in a more isolated location, has helped Ottawa to avoid becoming quite as popular with tourists as the cities further south. This allows visitors to take in its history and culture in a slightly more relaxed environment.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Ottawa – Fairmont Chateau Laurier

The Fairmont Chateau Laurier is a grand, historic, 5-star hotel that represents the city of Ottawa perfectly.

The building itself was opened in the early 1900’s and boasts Chateauesque and French Gothic Revival architecture that have had it designated a National Historic Site Of Canada.

Located adjacent to the Canadian parliament buildings, the beauty of the hotel itself is then complimented by luxuriously decorated interiors and stunning views of its surroundings, such as the Rideau Canal.

Each of the 429 guest rooms boasts classical furniture combined with modern amenities, such as flat screen cable TVs, mini bars, air conditioning, and tea and coffee making facilities. Each room is also completely pet friendly.

The on-site health club features a well equipped fitness centre, as well as a swimming pool, which is perfect whether you want to work out or unwind. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the property.

Meanwhile, dining options include Wilfrid’s Restaurant, where you can enjoy gourmet cuisine while taking in the stunning views, as well as Zoe’s Lounge, which serves everything from afternoon tea to evening cocktails.

Best Time For A Road Trip From Montreal To Toronto

Those seeking the best time for a road trip from Montreal to Toronto would do well to consider the period from late May to early October.

That is because even the southern parts of Canada that we will be driving through are known for exceptionally low temperatures during winter.

While the temperature isn’t going to be blistering during this period, it should be pleasant and reasonably warm for the most part. That means you can focus on enjoying your trip, instead of worrying about the weather.

This is particularly important considering your destination is located on the shores of one of the world’s largest, most famous lakes, Lake Ontario.

Top Attractions On A Road Trip From Montreal To Toronto

A road trip from Montreal to Toronto is a journey filled with sights and sounds synonymous with the distinctive culture of Canada.

While not a short journey, it is a length that should give you ample opportunity to stop and enjoy any of the sights you are interested in along the way.

The following list features what we consider to be the absolute highlights of the journey. These are the things you simply have to stop and take in if you possibly can.

Brockville Railway Tunnel

Brockville Railway Tunnel was the first ever railway tunnel built in Canada and opened on New Year’s Eve 1860. However, after more than 100 years in service, it was sold off and ceased functioning as a rail tunnel in the mid-1980s.

While it still holds plenty of historical significance for railway enthusiasts, it has also been converted into a seasonal tourist attraction that makes it a fun and exciting destination for a wider range of tourists.

In a near 18-month renovation effort in 2016 and 2017, the historic Brockville Railway Tunnel was transformed into a living work of art.

Brightly coloured LED’s form patterns along the walls, while accompanying music synchronises with the lights to create an immersive and atmospheric display.

Take a stroll down the length of the tunnel to soak in its beauty, both historical and modern, and perhaps get a better understanding of how Canada has evolved over the last 100 or so years.

Thousand Islands Parkway

The Thousand Islands Parkway is a scenic 39 kilometre (24 mile) parkway, which runs along the north bank of the St Lawrence River, from Butternut Bay to where the river flows into Lake Ontario.

The Thousand Islands Parkway is among the most famous roads in the region, due to the stunning views it offers.

It gets its name from the collection of islands located within this stretch of the river, many of which can easily be seen as you drive, due to how close the parkway is to the water.

Some of the islands, including the largest of the group, Howe Island, can even be driven onto, allowing you to expand the views on offer even further.

Combined with a fabulous collection of small towns and lighthouses, including the second largest lighthouse in Ontario, the Wolfe Island (Québec Head) Lighthouse, Thousand Islands Parkway is a truly breathtaking stretch of road that is well worth adding an extra hour to the drive.

Kingston, Ontario

While the city of Kingston officially came into existence in 1760, it was settled on land that had been inhabited since 1673, as the 17th century trading post Fort Cataraqui.

Located at the mouth of the St Lawrence River, where it flows into Lake Ontario, Kingston served as the original capital city of Canada from 1841 to 1844.

Despite not being a notorious tourist destination, Kingston boasts perhaps more historical attractions than any other city in the country.

Kingston features a total of 1211 locations that are listed on the heritage register of the Ontario Heritage Act, plus 21 locations listed on the National Historic Sites Of Canada register, and even a World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal and its historic fortifications.

This makes Kingston an absolutely must visit destination for any fans of history and the growth of Canada.

Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is a sprawling region in southern Ontario that is largely surrounded by the waters of Lake Ontario. It is connected to the mainland by a single natural link, as well as a number of manmade bridges.

Aside from the incredible views of Lake Ontario that are available from its shores, Prince Edward County is primarily known for two things.

The first is a location known as Sandbanks Provincial Park. Covering 1,551 hectares, the park is considered to be one of the best sandy beaches in the province and also contains the largest bay-mouth barrier dune formation on Earth.

With the waters of Lake Ontario lapping at its shores and abundant with wildlife and beautiful views, Sandbanks Provincial park is a popular destination for recreational activities like swimming, fishing, hiking, cycling, camping, and birdwatching.

The other popular draw of Prince Edward County is the incredible collection of vineyards located within it. Wine enthusiasts travel from all over to take in the scenery, learn about the production methods, and sample some of the best vintages in all of Canada.

Other attractions in the county are the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory and an incredible collection of lighthouses.

National Air Force Museum Of Canada

The National Air Force Museum Of Canada is a permanent collection of vehicles and memorabilia dedicated to honouring the history of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

Visitors will see collections and hear information that will guide them through the years from the founding of the RCAF to its importance and operation in modern day Canada, explaining every detail of its evolution in great depth.

The collection of planes from every era of the RCAF will delight and amaze aviation enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, the memorials dedicated to squadrons who were lost in battle are a sombre yet necessary reminder of the true cost of war, as well as a great place to pay your respects.

Lake Ontario

Lake Ontario features a surface area of 19,000 square kilometres (7,340 miles) and contains 1,640 cubic kilometres (393 miles) of water. This makes it the smallest of North America’s Great Lakes by area and second smallest by volume, ahead of Lake Erie.

However, despite being the smallest of the group, Lake Ontario still ranks as the 13th largest lake on Earth. Straddling the divide between the Canadian province of Ontario and the US state of New York, it is a truly stunning destination to visit.

Surrounded by historic settlements, forts, and lighthouses, while numerous small islands are located within its waters, it is a fabulous destination whether you want to take in some culture, enjoy some time on the water, or simply soak in the natural beauty.

It is even filled with incredible wildlife for you to enjoy, both in the water and on the shore.

Ganaraska Forest

Despite the name, Ganaraska Forest is actually two forests that are recognised as one, situated between the towns of Oshawa and Peterborough. Visitors will arrive to find stunning, natural landscapes, filled with towering trees and all manner of local wildlife.

However, what sets Ganaraska Forest apart from similar locations in the region is the maze of aerial pathways, bridges, and ziplines located in its canopy. This unique attraction gives you the opportunity to explore a forest in an entirely new and exciting way.

Not only will you have better views and be able to experience the forest from a different perspective, but you will also go undetected by much of the wildlife on the forest floor.

This gives you the chance to watch them feeding and going about their lives in a way that simply wouldn’t be possible on the ground.

Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park

Jungle cat World Wildlife Park is a stunning safari park that gives guests the opportunity to see numerous different species of big cats up close and personal in large enclosures that faithfully recreate their natural habitats.

With cougars, leopards, lions, lynxes, panthers, tigers, and even some grey wolves, Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park is a must visit location for any fans of big cats.

Programs are even in effect that give you the chance to feed some of the cats under supervision from trained handlers.

Meanwhile, outside of the enclosures, the park has a range of other animals to enjoy as well. Birds, beavers, foxes, lemurs, monkeys, and more freely wander around the park, giving you the opportunity to have a number of extremely personal experiences.

With the ability to book a room in a safari-themed lodge or rooms inspired by the dens of some of the park’s big cats, as well as the chance to go camping, Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park is the perfect opportunity to take a break from the road and get back to nature for a while.

That concludes our guide to a road trip from Montreal to Toronto. Hopefully, it will have helped you to plan your route and given you plenty of ideas to keep you entertained as you travel between two of Canada’s most famous cities.

All that’s left is to go and start getting things booked. That way, you will guarantee you don’t have to miss out on anything and can start looking forward to experiencing it all for yourself as soon as possible.

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• Toronto to Montreal Drive: 16 Best Stops Along the Way

Are you planning a road trip from Toronto to Montreal and have no idea where to stop along the way? Then you have come to the right place!

This past summer, our family did this exact road trip.

Instead of the usual plan to drive to Montreal in one shot, we decided to spend ten days stopping into many of the amazing little towns in between.

We were definitely surprised at how much we had been missing out on! From gorgeous beaches to interesting historical sites, fantastic festivals and wonderful eateries.

We are so glad that we took the time to explore this part of Ontario – and you will be too!

Ready to learn more? Let’s jump right in!

Toronto to Montreal Stops – Quick Guide

If you are in a hurry, here’s a quick list of the best places to stop on a Toronto to Montreal drive:

• Port Hope – Charming town, great brewery and cafes, parks for the kids.
• Cobourg – Awesome beach, great cafes and shops to explore.
• The Big Apple – Grab some treats or play some mini-golf.
• Presqu’Ile Provincial Park – Great campgrounds plus a scenic lighthouse.
• Drive the Loyalist Parkway – Scenic drive.
• Prince Edward County – Wine Country.
• Belleville Ontario – Walk the waterfront, grab a coffee, or admire the wonderful murals.
• Tyendinaga Caves – Quick stop for a spelunking adventure.
• Greater Napanee – Walking trails, waterfall, great cafes.
• Kingston Ontario – Plenty of awesome attractions.
• Gananoque – Scenic town where you can take a cruise through the 1000 Islands.
• Drive The 1000 Islands Parkway – Scenic drive.
• Brockville Ontario – Visit the railway tunnel.
• Upper Canada Village – Immersive attraction that lets you step back in time to a small 19th-century village.
• Drive the Long Sault Parkway – Scenic drive.
• Cornwall – Park with splash pad and walking trail, small jail to tour, cafes and shops.

Toronto to Montreal Drive Time

If you’re all set for an exciting road trip adventure, the drive time between Toronto and Montreal typically falls within the range of around 5 to 6 hours.

Of course, this is dependent on traffic, weather, and how many pit stops you’re planning to make.

The driving distance from Toronto to Montreal is roughly 540 kilometres (about 336 miles), so you’ll want to factor in those factors when planning your departure.

Now, keep in mind that this estimate is based on a non-stop drive. But hey, where’s the fun in that, right?

With awesome places to explore along the way, like charming towns, cool viewpoints, and maybe a quirky roadside attraction or two, you will definitely want to factor in some extra time to truly make the most of your journey.

Toronto to Montreal Drive (or Drive from Montreal to Toronto) – 15 Best Stops Along the Way

So let’s get started! Here are the 15 best places to stop on a Toronto to Montreal road trip.

Of course, as our title implies, this road trip can easily be done in the reverse order if you are coming from Montreal.

Leave Toronto Behind

If you are visiting the area for the first time (and even if you are not), be sure to spend some time in Toronto . This vibrant and multicultural city has plenty of things to capture your interest.

From the iconic CN Tower to the Royal Ontario Museum , the Toronto Islands, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Hockey Hall of Fame , the city is a treasure trove of attractions that both kids and adults will love.

These family-friendly stops would be the perfect jumping-off point for your unforgettable road trip adventure.

Best Places to Stay in Toronto

Here are a few recommendations if you are looking for the best places to stay while in Toronto:

Hotel X Toronto by Library Hotel: Hotel X Toronto by Library Hotel Collection offers waterfront and city skyline views. Situated on the historic Exhibition grounds, the hotel is the epitome of luxury.

With rooftop hospitality, fine dining, versatile meeting spaces, impressive fitness facilities, and a Guerlain Spa with 10 treatment rooms, you will definitely feel pampered.

Fairmont Royal York: Immerse yourself in luxury at the iconic Fairmont Royal York. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, this historic hotel offers elegant rooms and suites, along with top-notch amenities including a spa and multiple dining options.

Enjoy easy access to major attractions and stunning views of the city skyline.

The Omni King Edward Hotel: The Omni King Edward Hotel is a 4-star hotel in central Toronto.

With attractions like Sugar Beach, the Hockey Hall of Fame, and Toronto Eaton Centre nearby, it’s convenient to visit some must-see sights in the city.

The hotel provides air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving American and international cuisine, and breakfast options including vegetarian, dairy-free, and vegan choices.

1. Port Hope

Port Hope is a charming little town and the perfect first stop on your road trip.

We enjoyed strolling through this charming town’s historic streets lined with fantastic architecture, boutique shops, and cozy cafes .

You can also choose to stretch your legs, have a picnic, relax or do a little fishing, along the Ganaraska River at Farley Mowat Park .

Let the kids burn off some energy at the large playground , stop for a craft beer at the Ganaraska Brewing Company , or indulge in a sweet treat at Dreamer’s Cafe , the choice is yours. We did all of the above!

And if you head just 10 minutes outside of town, you will come across Primitive Designs . This shop is unlike any other I have ever seen, and definitely worth the short drive.

The big draw here… and I do mean BIG… is the GIGANTIC Optimus Prime Transformer at the entrance. Seeing this made the stop worth it for the kids.

From intricate metal sculptures to crafts and artwork, gemstones and even clothing, you will need at least an hour to explore this quirky shop .

• Distance from Toronto : 107 km
• Distance from Montreal:  438 km

Places to Stay in Port Hope

Hampton Inn Port Hope: For a convenient and comfortable stay, check out the Hampton Inn Port Hope.

With its range of amenities including free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and an indoor pool, it’s perfect for families or travellers on a budget.

We liked that it was close to major highways, and offered easy access to both local attractions and our road trip route.

Comfort Inn Port Hope: For a convenient and comfortable stay, check out the Comfort Inn Port Hope.

With its range of amenities including free breakfast and Wi-Fi, it’s perfect for families or travellers on a budget.

Situated close to major highways, it offers easy access to both local attractions and your road trip route.

Waddell Hotel: Step back in time with a stay at the historic Waddell Hotel. With its vintage charm and modern amenities, this hotel provides a comfortable and nostalgic experience.

This hotel was great because it was located right downtown. It was a stone’s throw away from local shops, galleries, and the waterfront.

We really enjoyed our day in Cobourg. This charming town on the shore of Lake Ontario is not only walkable but there are plenty of things to see and do.

Not only will you find some pretty little boutiques, cafes, and fabulous restaurants in the downtown area, but the beach is pretty incredible too.

With plenty of white sand, gorgeous clear and shallow water , as well as nearby amenities, Cobourg has everything you need for an awesome day at the beach.

We were lucky enough to visit on a weekend when both the Farmer’s Market was happening, as well as the Sandcastle Festival. It was a lot of fun!

• Distance from Toronto : 117 km
• Distance from Montreal:  429 km

Places to Stay in Cobourg

King George Inn: This unique building was once a historic jail. Now transformed into a boutique inn, some of the quirkiness still exists.

Sleep in jail-themed rooms, see the jail museum in the basement or sit outside in the old prisoner’s yard. Our room still had the old cells, with the beds and bathroom tucked inside each cell.

Just keep in mind, that the Inn is said to be haunted!

Comfort Inn Cobourg: A comfortable and affordable option for your stay in Cobourg. With convenient amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a practical choice for travellers looking for value and comfort.

Northumberland Heights Wellness Retreat & Spa: For those seeking relaxation and wellness, this retreat and spa is an ideal choice.

It offers serene accommodations, rejuvenating spa treatments, and a peaceful natural setting just outside Cobourg.

3. The Big Apple

Get ready to take a juicy bite out of the Big Apple – no, not that one! Our next stop brings us to the iconic Big Apple in Colborne, a must-visit attraction on your Toronto to Montreal road trip.

This colossal apple-shaped roadside attraction is more than just a quirky landmark; it’s a hub of food and fun .

We have driven past the enormous apple many, many times, and not realized how big this attraction actually is.

Not only can you actually go inside and explore the towering apple, but there is a petting zoo, mini-golf, small midway rides , and tons of vendors and food trucks.

And of course, you can’t miss going inside the market . We found a variety of freshly baked apple treats as well as other sweets produced right in the on-site bakery.

You will also find apple cider and a variety of other mouthwatering apple-themed goodies.

Whether you’re capturing Instagram-worthy shots with the giant apple or indulging in delicious apple treats, the Big Apple is definitely a whimsical stop that should be on your itinerary.

• Distance from Toronto : 140 km
• Distance from Montreal:  404 km

4. Presqu’Ile Provincial Park

Nestled along the northern shores of Lake Ontario, Presqu’ile Provincial Park is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts.

Located just 8 minutes from Brighton and Hwy 401, this park is worth a day trip , or even an overnight stay.

From stunning sandy beaches and rich marshes to lush forests, Prequi’le is the perfect place to visit for hiking, camping or bird watching .

And if you love lighthouses as much as I do, Presqu’ile Provincial Park has one!

Just a short walk from both the parking lot and the Visitor’s Centre , the lighthouse is pretty neat to see . Unfortunately, you can’t go inside, however, the surrounding views are worth the short walk.

While you are in the park, don’t forget to stop in at the Nature Centre , where you will find a variety of local flora and fauna, as well as Park Staff waiting to answer any questions.

We actually camped in the park for the night and found the amenities to be pretty good.

• Distance from Toronto : 155 km
• Distance from Montreal:  401 km

Places to Stay Near Presqu’Ile

If you are not interested in camping in the park, there are several great accommodations located just a short drive from Presqu’ile.

Stone Garden Inn: The Stone Garden Inn in Trenton offers accommodations with pool views, a private terrace, and a well-equipped kitchen featuring a dishwasher, oven, microwave, and coffee machine. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and relax in the garden.

Comfort Inn Trenton: The Comfort Inn Trenton is just a short drive from downtown Trenton, Ontario.

The hotel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, 50-inch flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, work desks, and a continental breakfast.

Travelodge by Wyndham Trenton: The Travelodge Trenton in Ontario, located by the Bay of Quinte near CFB Trenton Air Force Base.

It offers free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and rooms equipped with refrigerators, coffee makers, and cable TVs with free movies. Guests can enjoy a deluxe continental breakfast, and the hotel features a barbecue area and business center.

5. Drive the Loyalist Parkway

This next destination on the road trip is not really a stop, per se, but a scenic drive. The Loyalist Parkway, also known as HWY 33, follows the shoreline of Lake Ontario.

This beautiful drive takes you through some charming little towns and past many historical sites . In fact, many of these towns have deep roots, with United Empire Loyalists settling here as far back as 1784.

We loved seeing the majestic colonial homes, cozy bed & breakfasts, and inviting diners. There are plenty of places to stop along the way too.

Whether you decide to stop and admire the lake views and surrounding properties or check out some of the many historical plaques that highlight archaeological and heritage sites along the way, it really is an interesting drive.

And while you may not be moving as fast as traffic on the 401, the Loyalist Parkway is definitely much more scenic.

One stop that we recommend making, is the Fort Henry National Historic Site. Here, you can step back in time to experience 19th-century British military life up close.

6. Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is definitely one of the most well-known spots on the drive from Toronto to Montreal.

Considered the second most popular wine country in Ontario (after Niagara on the Lake ), it really is a gorgeous place to visit.

Be sure to explore the picturesque Sandbanks Provincial Park , where s prawling dunes meet crystal-clear waters – a paradise for beach lovers and the perfect place for the kids to build sandcastles.

Prince Edward County also boasts a ton of quaint villages filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes . Go for a stroll, find some unique trinkets, or taste some local treats.

Don’t miss the chance to tour local wineries , where you can savour exquisite local wines against the backdrop of rolling vineyards.

Before leaving Prince Edward County, be sure to stop at Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park.

The lake, which has a constant flow of clean, fresh water and no apparent source , is not only a mystery but offers gorgeous views from a vantage point of 60 meters above Lake Ontario.

This day-use park is the perfect place to stop for a picnic, go for a swim, or just stretch your legs.

• Distance from Toronto : 204 km
• Distance from Montreal:  371 km

Places to Stay in Prince Edward County

The Waring House: Discover comfort and heritage at The Waring House. Set in a historic building, this inn and restaurant exude classic charm.

The cozy rooms and beautiful gardens create a welcoming retreat, while the on-site restaurant serves up delicious farm-to-table fare.

It’s an idyllic haven to rest and rejuvenate after a day of Prince Edward County adventures.

The June Motel: Embrace retro-chic vibes at The June Motel. This stylish and vibrant accommodation is a breath of fresh air with its playful decor and inviting atmosphere.

The outdoor pool and lively communal spaces make it a perfect base for relaxation and exploration.

The Lakeside Motel: The Lakeside Motel in Wellington, Ontario, offers a waterfront setting with a terrace for guests to enjoy.

The rooms feature free Wi-Fi, seating areas, private bathrooms with baths and free toiletries, garden views, flat-screen TVs, and hairdryers. It’s a comfortable spot for those looking to relax by the lake.

7. Belleville Ontario

Established in 1816, Belleville, Ontario is a quaint town worth a stop on your Toronto to Montreal road trip.

Stroll through the historic streets of Downtown Belleville and explore all the unique boutiques, cafes, and restaurants housed in charming old buildings.

Enjoy the town’s vibrant coffee culture and relax on bright patios or hidden courtyards.

Dive into the rich maritime history of the city at the Glanmore National Historic Site , where stunning architecture and period furnishings tell stories of days gone by.

While we enjoyed strolling the scenic riverside trails along the Moira River on foot, you could easily explore the trails by bicycle. Zwick’s Park is also a great place to have a picnic with waterfront views.

And who doesn’t love a good Farmer’s Market? We were lucky enough to catch the vibrant Farmer’s Market and artisan Side Hustle Market , where you will find everything from fresh produce to locally handcrafted treasures.

Before you leave Belleville, be sure to take a leisurely walk along Front Street and Pinnacle Street.

This downtown area is adorned with a ton of colourful murals , which can be found on building walls, in parking lots, and even on patios.

• Distance from Toronto : 189 km
• Distance from Montreal:  361 km

Places to Stay in Belleville

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Belleville: TownePlace Suites by Marriott offers convenient access to Highways 401 and 62 within a 5-minute drive.

The rooms are equipped with well-appointed kitchens, a living area with a sofa and flat-screen TV, and bathrooms with toiletries.

Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, 24-hour front desk service, free parking, and in the summer, communal barbecue facilities.

Hampton Inn & Suites Belleville: Located in Belleville, Ontario, The Hampton Inn and Suites is approximately 7 km from The Empire Theatre.

The hotel offers an indoor pool, a shared lounge, and free WiFi throughout.

Guests can start their day with an American breakfast and benefit from amenities like free private parking, a business center, and a 24-hour front desk.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites: The Holiday Inn Express in Belleville offers guests an indoor pool and fitness center, along with free WiFi and a daily hot breakfast.

Our room was modernly furnished with amenities like a flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee-making facilities.

Additionally, there’s a business center, free newspapers in the lobby, and complimentary on-site parking.

8. Tyendinaga Caves

This stop is a little off the beaten path. To reach the Tyendinaga Caves, you will have to detour about 10 minutes off Highway 401.

But it’s a stop that the kids definitely enjoyed. If you have never been “spelunking” this is a great introduction.

These ancient limestone caves, shaped over millions of years, offer a captivating journey through Ontario’s geological history.

The caves are easy to walk through. No need to worry about squeezing or crawling through tight crevices (unless you want to).

Just be sure to bring a light sweater, as it does get chilly down there. You will also be required to wear runners or other closed-toe shoes.

Guided tours provide insights into the caves’ formation and the First Nations’ historical and cultural significance.

Reservations can be made online, or you can just call ahead. But just a heads-up, if you book a last-minute reservation over the phone, you will need to pay by cash or debit onsite.

To get there, follow Ontario’s Highway 401 and take Exit 566. A short drive from Belleville, these caves offer a truly extraordinary adventure and would be the perfect addition to your Toronto to Montreal itinerary.

• Distance from Toronto : 205 km
• Distance from Montreal:  353 km

9. Greater Napanee

While you could easily spend several days in Greater Napanee, you could certainly get a good taste of this amazing little town in one day if you choose to just pass through.

If, like me, you enjoy chasing waterfalls, then Greater Napanee has got you covered. Take a leisurely walk in the scenic Springside Park where you will find the gentle Napanee Falls.

Explore the beautiful walking trails and enjoy the serene scenery in Napanee Conservation Park. It’s a great place for picnics, family gatherings, and scenic river views.

And if you are looking for that unique adventure, experience a pontoon boat cruise down the Napanee River with Norman Paul River Tours. You can even pre-order food and enjoy a relaxing dinner along the river.

Another unique part of Greater Napanee that we thoroughly enjoyed was their street art. The Pallet’able Art Program features sponsored works of art displayed on repurposed wooden industrial pallets which can be found throughout downtown Napanee.

And just like in many of the other towns listed in this post, Greater Napanee is the perfect place to enjoy some shopping in the downtown boutiques.

Be sure to savour a delicious meal at a local restaurant or cafe, and explore the town’s rich history and architecture through a self-guided walking tour.

Don’t forget to check out other attractions like the Lennox and Addington County Museum & Archives, Old Hay Bay Church, and the Canadian Piano Museum for a well-rounded Napanee experience.

• Distance from Toronto : 227 km
• Distance from Montreal:  326 km

Places to Stay in Greater Napanee

Comfort Inn and Suites: Guests can enjoy amenities like an indoor pool, 24-hour front desk, and free WiFi, while rooms are equipped with essentials like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, fridges, and coffee makers.

A continental breakfast is also available for guests, making it a practical choice for travellers exploring Napanee and its surroundings.

Hampton Inn by Hilton Napanee: Enjoy modern comfort and convenience at the Hampton Inn.

With its cozy rooms, complimentary breakfast, and indoor pool, it’s a welcoming retreat for travellers. Located conveniently near local attractions, it offers a great base to explore Greater Napanee’s offerings.

Fox Motor Inn: The Fox Motor Inn in the Greater Napanee Area offers a convenient stay with its seasonal outdoor heated saltwater pool and proximity to the Napanee River.

Guest rooms are equipped with free WiFi, cable TV, a microwave, a small fridge, and coffee-making facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Additionally, the inn features a picnic area with a barbecue and a children’s playground, along with boat parking.

10. Kingston Ontario – You’re Halfway There!

You are halfway to Montreal! As one of the largest cities on the Toronto to Montreal drive, you can expect there to be a ton of things to see and do in Kingston.

We spent two days in the city and barely scratched the surface. And while the downtown area is pretty walkable, you will need to drive to some of the attractions or sites on the outskirts.

We would recommend starting at Kingston’s Visitor Centre located in the heart of the downtown area. Not only is there plenty to see around the centre, but inside, you will find staff that can recommend and book tours for you.

We started with a scenic Trolley Tour. It was the perfect way to see the city in a short amount of time.

We were then able to decide where we wanted to explore on our own, based on what we saw on the tour.

Aside from strolling the waterfront, you can visit Kingston’s iconic Fort Henry, Murney Tower, the Agnes Etherington Art Centre, and of course, the iconic Kingston Penitentiary.

• Distance from Toronto : 264 km
• Distance from Montreal:  286 km

Places to Stay in Kingston

Hampton Inn By Hilton Kingston: Hampton Inn By Hilton Kingston provides comfortable accommodation with a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi.

The hotel offers free private parking and features a hot tub and a 24-hour front desk for added convenience.

Our room was well-equipped with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, and air conditioning, making sure our stay was pretty pleasant.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront: Experience waterfront luxury at its finest at Delta Hotels.

Overlooking Lake Ontario, this hotel offers elegant rooms, stunning views, and easy access to Kingston’s attractions. The on-site restaurant and outdoor terrace provide a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication.

Holiday Inn Kingston Waterfront: Embrace comfort and convenience at Holiday Inn. With its central location and well-appointed rooms, it’s a practical choice for exploring Kingston’s sights.

The waterfront views and friendly service make for a pleasant stay in the heart of the city.

11. Gananoque

Gananoque is one of my favourite small towns to visit in Ontario. This charming waterfront town is the perfect home base for your Thousand Islands adventures .

Whether you are looking to take a cruise through the islands, go on a kayaking adventure, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, or just admire the amazing architecture, there is plenty to see and do.

Our kids enjoyed hanging out at Joel Stone Park where you will find a splash pad, playground, picnic area, beach, and a lovely lighthouse. There was even a concert in the park on the weekend we were visiting.

Gananoque’s vibrant downtown is also the perfect place to explore. With boutique shops, art galleries, cozy cafes, and amazing green spaces, there is something for everyone.

• Distance from Toronto : 289 km
• Distance from Montreal:  258 km

Places to Stay in Gananoque

Gananoque Inn & Spa: Experience historic elegance at the Gananoque Inn & Spa. Nestled along the St. Lawrence River, this charming inn offers beautifully appointed rooms with a touch of old-world charm.

Indulge in the spa’s rejuvenating treatments and enjoy excellent dining options. Our room had pretty great waterfront views, as well as a small outdoor seating area.

Comfort Inn & Suites Thousand Islands Harbour District: Comfort Inn & Suites Thousand Islands in Gananoque offers indoor pool and fitness center access.

Our guestroom came equipped with a TV, refrigerator, and coffee maker, with free WiFi available throughout the hotel.

Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning, which includes items like eggs, waffles, and fresh fruit.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites 1000 Islands: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites offers spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, and guests can enjoy amenities like an indoor pool, sauna, and a well-equipped gym.

Each contemporary room is equipped with a microwave and refrigerator, and a breakfast buffet with items like scrambled eggs, cinnamon rolls, and fresh fruit is available to guests.

12. Drive The 1000 Islands Parkway

The Thousand Islands Parkway is the second of three scenic drives we have included in this post. It provides you with yet another opportunity to leave Highway 401 behind and opt for a more picturesque drive.

The 1000 Islands Parkway stretches for approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles). It runs parallel to the 401 from Gananoque to just west of Brockville.

So by taking this alternate route, you really aren’t straying too much off course.

The drive along the Parkway really is scenic with views of the St. Lawerence River, small waterfront communities, and lush forest.

You will also come across the Thousand Islands National Park Visitor’s Centre along the Parkway.

There, we not only found friendly staff that pointed out the best hikes along the Parkway, but we also learned a little about the flora and fauna in the area.

Don’t forget to grab a photo with the Parks Canada Red Chairs !

13. Brockville Ontario

Nestled along the St. Lawrence River, Brockville offers a variety of activities perfect for a stop on your Toronto to Montreal drive.

Whether you choose to immerse yourself in history at the Brockville Museum or take a scenic stroll along the iconic Brockville Railway Tunnel, Canada’s first railway tunnel, you are sure to learn something new.

And just a quick tip, while we visited the Railway Tunnel during the day, it would be a lot more spectacular in the evening when the lights really come alive.

Kids will love the Aquatarium, an interactive center that dives into the wonders of the Thousand Islands region.

Or how about a visit to St. Lawrence Park, a scenic waterfront space perfect for picnics and stretching your legs?

And don’t miss out on the Brockville Arts Centre, where you can catch captivating performances in a historic setting.

• Distance from Toronto : 339 km
• Distance from Montreal:  206 km

Places to Stay in Brockville

Hampton Inn Brockville: Stay at Hampton Inn for a comfortable and convenient stay in Brockville.

With air-conditioned rooms, private bathrooms, and free WiFi, you’ll have all you need. Plus, enjoy the indoor pool and a 24-hour front desk, and start your day right with a continental or American breakfast.

Comfort Inn Brockville: Embrace comfort and affordability at Comfort Inn. With its well-equipped rooms and practical amenities, it’s a great option for travellers seeking a comfortable stay.

The hotel’s central location provides easy access to Brockville’s attractions, making it a convenient base for your exploration.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brockville: Choose the Brockville Holiday Inn Express for a convenient downtown location.

Enjoy spacious rooms with flat-screen cable TVs and start your day right with a daily buffet breakfast. With free Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and more, your stay will be comfortable and hassle-free.

14. Upper Canada Village

Upper Canada Village is a unique stop on our Toronto to Montreal drive itinerary. Not a city or small town, rather it’s an attraction worth stopping for.

Perfect for history buffs, Upper Canada Village is a living time capsule that transports you back to the 19th century.

This isn’t your typical museum; it’s an immersive experience that lets you step back in time.

Imagine strolling through cobblestone streets lined with charming heritage buildings, having conversations with costumed interpreters who stay in character, and seeing traditional crafts created firsthand.

From the bustling blacksmith’s shop to the rustic farmhouse kitchens, every corner presents the opportunity to see history come alive.

• Distance from Toronto : 403 km
• Distance from Montreal:  142 km

15. Drive the Long Sault Parkway

The last of the scenic drives described in this post, the Long Sault Parkway is definitely worth the detour.

The Long Sault Parkway is a 10-kilometre-long road that connects a series of eleven islands on the St. Lawrence River.

Again, the Parkway runs parallel to the 401, so it really isn’t going out of your way to enjoy this unique route.

In the 1950s, the land surrounding the parkway underwent substantial flooding to facilitate the construction of the Moses-Saunders Power Dam and the expansion of the St. Lawrence Seaway.

The 11 islands in the Long Sault Parkway are the highest points that remained after the flooding.

You will find a ton of campgrounds, picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, and lookout points along the Parkway. It’s the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs.

And just before you head out onto the parkway, be sure to visit the Lost Villages Museum.

The Lost Villages Museum features ten heritage buildings found after the area was flooded.

The buildings have been restored and assembled into a small village in Ault Park that is free to visit.

It only took us about half an hour to walk through, so it’s a great place to stop and stretch your legs.

16. Cornwall

Cornwall is the perfect place for a short stop along your Toronto to Montreal drive. We were able to fit most of the sights into a day, which is perfect if you are on a time crunch.

We spent some time at Lamoureux Park, where you can stroll along the waterfront pathways. There is a playground and splash pad for the kids, as well as an exercise park for the adults.

Adjacent to Lamoureux Park, you will find the Cornwall Community Museum, offering a fascinating peek into the town’s past.

And right across the street, is the Historic Cornwall Jail. We took a guided tour of the jail which was pretty interesting.

Don’t forget to head into town for a little shopping, or to indulge in local eats at one of the cozy restaurants. We were also lucky enough to be in town for their bustling farmer’s market.

• Distance from Toronto : 437 km
• Distance from Montreal:  114 km

Places to Stay in Cornwall

Best Western Parkway Inn & Conference Centre: Embrace a blend of comfort and convenience at Best Western Parkway Inn.

This hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities including an outdoor pool and fitness center. We found the included breakfast to be quite good, with enough variety to make the kids happy.

Located near major highways, it’s a convenient choice for exploring Cornwall and the surrounding areas.

Ramada by Wyndham Cornwall: Enjoy a comfortable stay at Ramada. With its well-appointed rooms and practical amenities, it’s a great option for travellers seeking convenience and affordability.

The hotel’s location provides easy access to Cornwall’s attractions, making it a practical base for your visit.

Century Motel: Choose Century Motel in Cornwall for a comfy stay with free WiFi and convenient parking.

Relax in well-equipped rooms, some with cozy seating areas and flat-screen TVs. Plus, with a 24-hour front desk, your stay is sure to be hassle-free.

Arrive in Montreal

You made it! Get ready to explore the vibrant city of Montreal, where each corner holds a new adventure.

Start your day in the historic charm of Old Montreal, where cobblestone streets and French architecture will make you feel like you have been transported to a charming European town.

Taste your way through vibrant neighbourhoods like Plateau-Mont-Royal, where local eateries and quirky shops will leave you craving for more.

Don’t forget to explore the iconic Mont Royal Park – a gorgeous greenspace offering stunning city views that are absolutely Instagram-worthy. With walking trails, biking, boat rentals, summer concerts and more, this is a must-see spot in the city.

And if you’re an art lover, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit, showcasing everything from classical to contemporary masterpieces.

Wrap up your day with the city’s electric nightlife scene, where jazz music flows through the air and vibrant street art colours the alleys.

Places to Stay in Old Montreal

Hotel Gault: Stay at Hotel Gault in the heart of Old Montreal for a luxurious experience. Enjoy gourmet breakfast choices, heated bathroom floors, and large picture windows in your spacious room.

Plus, the friendly staff can help recommend the city’s top attractions and plan exciting excursions.

Hotel Nelligan: Choose Hotel Nelligan for a stay filled with European elegance and historic charm. Enjoy well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, large windows, and stunning views of Old Montreal.

Plus, the 24-hour concierge services, fitness center, and exquisite dining options like Verses Restaurant and Terrasse Nelligan will make your stay truly memorable.

William Gray by Gray Collection: Stay at William Gray for an unforgettable Montreal experience. Enjoy free WiFi, a stylish bar, and the convenience of private parking.

The rooms feature modern amenities, plus, with a 24-hour front desk and complimentary shuttle service, your comfort is a top priority.

Toronto to Montreal Drive – Tips and Suggestions

Just like with any other lengthy road trip, you should always have some kind of plan. Here is a list of some of the things we consider before heading out the door on a road trip:

🗺️ Plan Your Route: Before hitting the road, take some time to plan your route. Whether you’re using a GPS device, a navigation app, or good old-fashioned maps, having a clear idea of the roads you’ll be taking can help you avoid unnecessary detours.

🚙 Check Traffic Updates: Keep an eye on traffic updates, especially if you’re departing during peak travel times. Apps like Google Maps or Waze can provide real-time traffic information and suggest alternative routes to avoid congested areas.

And given that this particular road trip is heavily dependent on travelling across Highway 401 (a.k.a. The Highway from Hell), this is a really good suggestion!

🧳 Pack Essentials: Make sure you’ve got the basics covered – your driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance, and any required permits. It’s also a good idea to carry an emergency kit with items like a first aid kit, flashlight, water, and basic tools.

🍪 Stay Hydrated and Snacked: Long drives can be dehydrating, so keep a supply of water handy. Pack some light, non-messy snacks as well, to keep your energy up (and the kids happy) without having to make frequent stops.

⛽ Fuel Up: Keep an eye on your fuel gauge and refuel when needed. Gas stations are readily available along the route, but ONRoutes (more about those later) can often be about 77 kilometres apart.

👟 Comfortable Attire: Dress comfortably for the drive, especially if you’ll be spending several hours on the road. Avoid tight clothing and opt for something that won’t become uncomfortable during the drive.

👀 Stay Alert: Long stretches of road can lead to driver fatigue. Take regular breaks to stretch your legs, and if possible, switch drivers to share the driving responsibility.

🚗💨 Know the Speed Limits: Pay attention to speed limits and follow them. Be aware that speed limits may vary between provinces and areas, so keep an eye out for signs.

🏙️ Explore Along the Way: One of the best parts of a road trip is discovering new places. If you come across a quirky attraction, a charming town, or a scenic viewpoint that’s not listed in this post, don’t hesitate to take a detour and explore!

⛅ Respect the Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially if you’re travelling during the colder months. Check the weather forecast before you leave and pack accordingly.

😊 Enjoy the Journey: Remember that the road trip itself is an adventure. Take in the scenery, listen to your favourite tunes, and enjoy the experience of exploring the open road.

Be Sure to Take Advantage Of the ONRoutes

One of the things I love about road-tripping in Ontario is being able to take advantage of the ONRoutes. In fact, I wish that other provinces would follow suit on this concept.

An ONRoute is a convenient rest stop located right off the highway. They can be found along the Highways 400 and 401 corridors, all across Ontario.

And these pit stops aren’t your average rest areas – they’re a road-trippers paradise! And we take advantage of ONRoutes almost every time we head out on road trips.

Offering a welcome break from the drive, ONRoute locations provide clean facilities, a variety of dining options, gas stations, and even spaces for stretching your legs and letting the kids burn off some energy.

Grab a quick meal, sip on a hot Tim Horton’s coffee, or explore the convenience stores stocked with travel essentials. We have even picnicked in grassy areas of the parking lot.

With their convenient locations and traveller-friendly amenities, ONRoute rest stops are definitely our go-to for a quick recharge and a dose of comfort during our road trips.

Toronto to Montreal Drive – FAQs

Absolutely, driving from Toronto to Montreal is well worth it! Along the way, you’ll discover a ton of charming towns, vibrant cities, and interesting attractions that make for a memorable road trip experience.

Yes, driving from Toronto to Montreal is relatively easy, thanks to well-maintained highways and clear signage. The journey offers a mix of highway stretches and picturesque routes, making it a comfortable and enjoyable drive.

Kingston, Ontario, is approximately halfway between Toronto and Montreal. This historic city is a perfect stopping point to break up the journey and explore its charming attractions.

Both driving and taking the train to Montreal offer unique advantages. Driving provides flexibility to explore scenic stops along the way. The train, on the other hand, offers a relaxing and efficient mode of travel, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without the need to navigate.

Yes, the drive from Toronto to Montreal is indeed scenic. You’ll pass through picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and beautiful natural areas, making the journey pretty memorable.

Toronto to Montreal Drive – Final Thoughts

The Toronto to Montreal drive can be an incredible road trip. After all, Ontario is such a beautiful province with a ton of varied landscapes to enjoy.

With so many incredible stops, places to visit, and things to do, we would definitely recommend taking your time, and stopping often to soak in the views!

As they say, “Life (or in this case travel) is about the journey, not the destination.” We guarantee you will never look at Ontario the same way again!

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• Sault Ste Marie to Thunder Bay Drive: 21 of the Best Places to Stop Along the Way
• 10 Incredible Stops on a Sudbury to Sault Ste Marie Road Trip

Marianne Giordano is the founder and writer for The Journeying Giordano's. Together with her husband, John, and their children, the family has travelled to all 10 Canadian provinces. Marianne is responsible for planning all of her family's travel itineraries and dreaming up new adventures. A Canadian native, Marianne shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do in Canada.

Toronto to Montréal: Essential road-trip tips

Jamie O'Meara

Jamie O'Meara was the Editor-in-Chief at C2 Montréal and the former Editor-in-Chief of alt-weekly newspaper  HOUR Magazine .

This article was updated on April 10, 2024.

While the journey isn’t quite the destination (Montréal is still the very much the destination), the drive from The 6ix to La belle ville presents many opportunities to be an adventure unto itself — in a good way. Here are some essential road-trip tips… 

As in most major cities, the summer season is when work is planned to improve the road network. To avoid unnecessary delays, plan ahead by checking the Mobility Montréal website .

“Get your motor runnin’, head out on the highway…”

We’re closer than you think. The drive between downtown Toronto and downtown Montréal clocks in at around only 5.5 hours of highway time on the 401 if you take the straight, point A-to-B route with one or two quick stops along the way. Or you could take your time and enjoy the ride a bit more by exploring alternative routes and taking in some of the one-of-a-kind sights. Either way, when it comes to road-tripping between Canada’s two biggest cities, especially in the current safety-minded environment, there are a few things you can do to make the drive seamless and enjoyable. 

Pre-trip prep

First off, if you’re anything like yours truly, you will want to get your road-trip ducks in a row before you leave by prepping the obvious stuff: an easy-to-reach tote bag with food (a packed lunch and handy snacks), reusable water bottles, coffee thermos, fully charged phone, and sunglasses. The less obvious stuff: bring disinfectant wipes and a roll of toilet paper, both of which can bring great peace of mind during those, let’s say, unanticipated stops. 

Secondly, and again this may seem obvious, leave Toronto with a full tank of gas. Chief among these are the  ONroute  service centres (or plazas, as they call them) that dot the highway.  

ONroute: Plazas, picnics and pets

ONroute plazas are hubs for enormous numbers of truck drivers and regular folks looking for food, fuel, bathroom breaks and respite from the road. Typically located at the rear of the plaza, behind the big-rig parking lots, these spacious park-like areas are easy to overlook, but represent an oasis of calm where you can enjoy your packed lunch and/or take your pooch for a run. Picnic areas, closed for the winter, re-open on the Victoria Day weekend (National Patriots’ Day in Québec).

Although ONroute plazas are, on average, spaced about 80 km apart from each other, it wouldn’t hurt to plan out any potential roadside pit stops along your journey… If only there was  a map of all the ONroute locations between T-O and MTL . 

On the road again

One of the nice features of the drive from T-O to MTL is its simplicity: turn onto the 401 east and drive straight until you get to downtown Montréal… voilà! Once you’ve cruised through the burbs of the GTA (Markham, Oshawa, Ajax etc.), almost immediately after Cobourg, the three lanes of the highway relax into two and the smooth sailing begins. At this point you’ll want to keep your eyes on the right for  The Big Apple : a giant red, happy-faced, apple-shaped structure. Pick up one of the amazing apple pies from its adjacent country store, or some onsite-made 401 Cider to celebrate your arrival in Montréal. 

Belleville is the next whistle stop en route to Kingston, which marks the halfway point between Toronto and Montréal. If you’re anything like yours truly, by the time you’ve motored around Kingston and its several cleverly hidden speed traps where the highway divides, the 401 might be taking a wee bit of a toll on your soul. This, you’ll be happy to note, is easily remedied.

Drive the islands

The next big town is the nearby Gananoque, which is where highway-weary drivers can slide off to the right as they pass by and ease onto the well-marked, ridiculously picturesque  Thousand Islands Parkway . If you’re one of those folks who likes to document the many over-sized odes to Canadiana that are found on highways across the country (like the aforementioned Big Apple), then pause for a break in Gananoque to take in the  Leaping Muskie Fish Statue  in all its concrete glory. Or not. The Parkway offers a bounty of scenic eye candy at a much more relaxed pace. You can take the Parkway all the way to Butternut Bay, just before Brockville, where you can seamlessly re-merge with the 401 on your way to Cornwall, the last large-ish Ontario outpost before the Quebec border. 

Bienvenue au Québec!

Once past Cornwall, you can practically catch a whiff of the smell of fresh bagels wafting out of Montréal with only about an hour to go before arrival. It’s a very straightforward drive with only a few things for drivers to keep in mind:

• Once across the Quebec border, the 401 becomes highway 20 – nothing to get excited about, just a change in name. 
• Unless you happen to be going to north Montréal, as you approach Vaudreuil-Dorion, do not be tempted to exit onto highway 30 going north. Just keep going straight. In a matter of minutes, the highway will transition into a large residential boulevard with stop lights as you pass over Île Perrot and onto the Island of Montréal.
• You might expect some construction (the result of a years-long road improvement project), but for the most part east/west work on the 20 has been completed, so again just keep going straight, following the signs that say “Centre-ville” (downtown). And that’s it — congratulations on a successful road trip to Montréal! 

Check out the Agence de mobilité durable’s website to see where parking is available near your destination. You can also download the P$ Mobile Service app to pay or top up your parking meter, wherever you are.   

Enjoy the best of Montréal

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Road trip – Toronto to Montreal drive itinerary

Today I am sharing with you the second part of my road trip in Canada : my Toronto to Montreal drive and return.

A lot of people take the plane in order to reach the two cities or take a train ride but I feel like renting a car allows you to see so much more of what is Canada, especially if you like nature.

Scenic drive from Toronto to Montreal – Take road ON-400N and ON-11

From Toronto, we head up north toward Algonquin park. With our rented car from Sunny Cars, we took road ON-400N and ON-11 for a very scenic drive. Mainly flat farmland and forest and more cows than people but how so peaceful.

It is nice to do stop around Kawartha lake and maybe sleep in a cottage to enjoy the nature and the lake.

For those interested in the historic part of Canada, you might want to stop at the Bobcaygeon settlers village where you can learn what life was like for pioneers in the Kawartha’s.

Toronto to Montreal – Hike at Algonquin National Park

If Canada is well known for something it is for it’s fabulous nature. On your way to Montreal it is worth it to make a detour North to Algonquin National Park. The park is huge and is home to moose and bears  among others. It is possible to meet the if you go on a longer hike.

Algonquin Park is just a great way to breathe nature. I recommend you to go camping if you are there in the summer months. That way you can also enjoy the lakes.  Kayaking is also very popular in the park.

To access the park by car you will need to purchase a permit that will cost you 17dollars during the week and 20dollars during the weekend.

Ski or relax at Mont Tremblant

Around 2 hours away from Montreal, is the famous Mont Tremblant. Mont Tremblant is a ski resort where people from Montreal go in the winter. It has cute little shops and cafés.

Mont Tremblant is nice to see all year long with amazing wellness hotels. See my hotel tip below. But I wish to go back once in the winter to ski!

Hotel tip for Mont Tremblant – Hotel Quintessence

Hotel Quintessence is the most luxurious hotel in Mont Tremblant. It has amazing spacious rooms, a pool and a jacuzzi overlooking the lake, everything at a very affordable price. Book it here. *

*Affiliate link

For what to do in Montreal , I will post an article very soon.

Montreal to Toronto scenic drive – Back via old Highway 2 (County road 2)

If you drive back to Toronto, I suggest you take another way so that you see more things. Take the old highway 2 for a nice road trip. It will take you longer than if you take highway 401 but it will be more interesting as you will pass by Long Sault Parkway  eleven island connected by each other via bridges, the 1000 islands parkway with nice views over the Saint Lawrence river and the Thousand Islands International Bridge that connects the Canada to the USA.

Definitely a nice roadtrip. You can do it in 3/4 days or more if you have time and want to plan some activities.

Rent you car HERE! 

How to Travel From Toronto to Montreal by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Roberto Anania / EyeEm / Getty Images

Toronto, Ontario , and  Montreal, Quebec , are two of Canada's most popular destinations . Although they're 336 miles (541 kilometers) apart, tourists and locals often travel between the two because they boast such different, unique vibes. Toronto is a bustling, modern city with luxury high rises, while Montreal is more of a historic, cultural hub.

The commute takes about five hours, 30 minutes via major highways, or longer if you care to take a more scenic route. If you don't fancy driving or don't plan to rent a car, other options for traveling between Toronto and Montreal include by plane, by train, and by bus. Flying is undoubtedly the fastest option, but it can be the most expensive one. The bus is the most economical but takes the longest. The train—a perfect middle ground—might just be your best bet for public transportation.

How to Get From Toronto to Montreal

• Plane: 1 hour, 15 minutes, from $65 (fast)
• Train: 5 hours or more, from $40 (comfortable)
• Bus: 6 to 9 hours, from $35 (budget-friendly)
• Car: 5 to 6 hours, 336 miles (541 kilometers)

There are more flights between Toronto and Montreal than between any other two Canadian cities. This is the fastest option, seeing as flying the route takes only one hour, 15 minutes, but then you need to factor in transport to and from the airport (both Toronto Pearson and Montréal-Trudeau are about a 30-minute drive from their respective downtown areas), and the time it'll take to check in and retrieve your bags. Travelers who are really crunched for time can opt to fly out of Billy Bishop Airport in downtown Toronto. This airport is much smaller and calmer than Toronto Pearson (Canada's biggest and busiest), but you might have to pay a little extra for the convenience.

You can expect to pay between $130 and $180 for a flight between the two cities, but if you book early enough you can find them for $65. Air Canada , West Jet and Flair are the popular airlines to take.

Via Rail , Canada's national passenger railway, provides convenient, downtown-to-downtown service between Toronto and Montreal on the daily. The train can take five hours or just under that unless it stops for an extended period of time in Ottawa—in which case it can take up to 10 hours, which is not what anyone wants. It's about the same time as it would take to drive the distance, but it's more economical and potentially more comfortable, too.

While the train ride is not particularly scenic , it has cozy seats, free WiFi, and it's reliable and convenient. Travelers may pay a little extra to upgrade to business class (there are five options, with Escape being the cheapest and Business Plus the most expensive). An Escape ticket can go for as low as $40 if you book far enough in advance. Otherwise, an economy ticket starts at $94. Pro tip: Keep an eye on VIA Express Deals to save up to 75 percent on fares.

If you don't mind extending the trip by a couple of hours, you might save money by taking the bus. Fares typically start around $35, but the ride takes between six and nine hours, which is much longer than driving, flying, or riding the train.

The services offering Toronto-to-Montreal routes include Megabus , which has daily express service on double-decker buses equipped with WiFi, and Greyhound Canada , which facilitates connections to many smaller towns between these two cities. Because of Greyhound's frequent stops, Megabus is the quicker option (six hours as opposed to eight or nine).

Alternatively, there are several guided coach tours to choose from. This may be a good idea if you have limited time and want to make the most of your trip and learn as much as you can during your travels, but it will inevitably be more expensive than your standard bus ride.

If you have a car or will be renting one, then driving the distance—336 miles (541 kilometers)—yourself is an option. It should take between five and six hours. The two cities are connected by a major system of highways: 401 Highway in Ontario becomes Highway 20 and goes straight into Montreal and then onto Quebec City .

Driving puts you in control of your own itinerary and can be fun if you're road-tripping with family or friends. There are plenty of nice spots to stop for breaks and have a bite to eat along the way: Prince Edward County , a charming agri-rich area that is popular with the Toronto weekend crowd, and Kingston , a city steeped in history that sits at the halfway point between the two cities. You could even take a little detour and stop in Ottawa for a day.

What to See in Montreal

More than 11 million visitors flock to the charming, historic hub that is Montreal every year. While it isn't the capital, it's the biggest city in Canada's Quebec province. Still, though, it's only about half the size of Toronto in terms of population, but the smallness is what people like about it. Montreal is a big city with small-town vibes. It's brimming with culture and heritage and cobblestoned streets. The French influence is far more present here than it is in Toronto or anywhere in Canada (in fact, it's the second-largest primarily French-speaking city in the developed world, after Paris).

Visitors may spend their day exploring Mount Royal, a hill that sits in the heart of the city; forgetting they're in North America at all in Old Montreal; reveling at the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal; navigating the beloved Botanical Garden ; or dining in the foodie-approved neighborhoods of Mile End, the Plateau, and the McGill Ghetto.

Obviously, a five-hour drive isn't conducive to day trips from Toronto, so rest your head at the cozy Hôtel Nelligan , the 1960s-style Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth , or the intimate, 28-room Le Petit Hôtel .

Global News. "A Banner Year For Tourism in Montreal as Tourists Spent $4B in 2017." March 6, 2018

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The Perfect Trip to Canada: montreal ottawa & toronto by Train (2023)

Planning a trip to Canada but don’t know where to begin? Montreal Ottawa Toronto?

Canada is a vast country (the second largest in the world) with a wealth of amazing places to visit.  So, it’s understandably hard to pick just one city to visit in Canada!

Rather than trying to weigh the benefits of Ottawa vs  Montreal vs Toronto , why not visit all three? 

These three top Canadian destinations are close enough geographically to make it easy to travel between them by train. 

And since all these cities are very walkable and have good public transit, this eliminates the need to rent a car for your Canada trip.  This will save you quite a bit of money! 

(I got a bit of sticker shock when pricing car rentals for my trip to Canada last year!  That became the deciding factor in choosing to travel between these cities by train.)

Here are my favorite things to do in Montreal, Ottawa, and Toronto – plus tips for getting around.

Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

Montréal, Québec

Montréal is the largest city in the Canadian province of Québec, located on the St. Lawrence River.

Montréal is a bilingual city, so you’ll hear a lot of French being spoken.  Don’t worry, English is widely spoken so you won’t have any problems with communication.

Of the three cities, I’d have to say that Montréal is my personal favorite.  I love all the historic buildings in Vieux Montréal and the distinctly French feel of the city.  (Plus, I’m a sucker for French pastries!)

Getting to Montréal

Begin your journey in Montreal and fly to the Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport.  

I recommend choosing a hotel in downtown Montreal.  That way you’re within easy walking distance of historic Vieux Montréal and other top attractions.

If you’re traveling light, a budget-friendly transit option from the airport to downtown Montreal is to take the 747 bus – it runs 24 hours a day. 

A ticket for this bus is a 24-hour pass for Montreal’s public transit.  You can buy additional daily passes for the rest of your stay, depending on which sites you want to visit and how much walking you want to do.

Best things to do in Montréal

Montréal is a beautiful city with much to see and do outdoors when the weather is nice.

One of the must-see attractions in Montreal is its historic center, Vieux Montréal (Old Montreal).  You’ll love exploring the cobblestone streets and admiring the architecture, such as the stunning Notre Dame Basilica with its twin towers and vibrant stained-glass windows.

Spend some time exploring the Vieux Port, which is chock full of restaurants and shops.  This is where you’ll find La Grande Roue de Montréal – the tallest Ferris Wheel in Canada!  Take a ride to enjoy gorgeous views of Montreal and the port area.

But the best views in Montréal are to be had from Mont-Royal Park, the highest point in Montréal.  From downtown, climb the wooden staircases to reach the top of Mount Royal.  Your reward is the panoramic views of Montréal and the St. Lawrence River from the terrace of the Kondiaronk Belvedere.

Visiting the Montreal Botanical Garden is the perfect way to enjoy a sunny afternoon in Montréal.  You’ll love walking through the Rose Garden, watching the butterflies in the Insectarium, and admiring the pagodas in the Chinese Garden.  The Montreal Botanical Garden hosts many special events throughout the year, such as the Chinese Lantern Festival and summer concerts.

Montreal is a multicultural city, and its culinary scene reflects these diverse influences. There is a mouth-watering array of cuisine to enjoy, from Montreal-style bagels and poutine to Portuguese chicken and dim sum.  Taste your way through the city’s best dishes on a walking  food tour of Montreal  and visit local favorite foodie hotspots.

Best museums in Montréal

If you’re like me, you’re not a fan of being outside when it rains.  But you certainly don’t want to just sit in your hotel room – it would be a waste of your travel day.

Visiting a museum is the perfect solution for a rainy-day activity.  And fortunately, Montreal has many top-notch museums to choose from!

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is one of the top museums in Montreal.  It is known for its focus on Quebec and Canadian art and boasts an impressive collection of decorative arts and graphic arts.  The Museum of Fine Arts is spread across multiple buildings, connected by underground tunnels.

Pointe-à-Callière is Montreal’s Museum of Archaeology and History.  It’s located in the Vieux Port and is easily recognized by its tall circular tower.   The museum features interactive archaeology exhibits and temporary ones ranging from Ancient Egypt to Vikings. 

When I visited last year, the museum was having a Viking-themed festival with booths set up outside the museum and some great ‘Dragons of the Northern Seas’ street art!

The Montreal Science Center is a great choice for families, with interactive exhibits on science and technology.  There’s also an IMAX theater where you can be immersed in 3D worlds filled with dinosaurs and other fascinating topics.  Be sure to check the schedules to find out when the English versions are playing!

Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa is in the Canadian province of Ontario.  It’s the capital of Canada, so some of the city’s top attractions are the impressive Parliament Buildings and world-class national museums.

I was a bit surprised to overhear a lot of French being spoken in Ottawa.   I guess I shouldn’t have been, as Ottawa borders the French-speaking province of Quebec.  (The Ottawa River forms the boundary between Ontario and Quebec.)

Getting to Ottawa

It’s a quick 2-hour train ride from Montreal’s Gare Central to the Ottawa train station.  There are several trains every day along this route, so you can pick the time that works best for you.

Tip:  It is cheaper to book a ticket from Montreal all the way to Toronto with a stop in Ottawa than to book separate tickets from Montreal to Ottawa and then from Ottawa to Toronto.  See your friendly ticket agent for help with booking.

Once you’ve arrived in Ottawa, take the metro from the train station to downtown Ottawa.  Note there can be a lot of disruptions on this line, but if the metro isn’t running, there will be a bus service from the train station to downtown.

Ottawa is very walkable, so I didn’t use their public transit other than to get to the train station.

Best things to do in Ottawa

There are many  great things to do in Ottawa , but the capital city’s top attraction is Parliament Hill.  The Parliament Buildings are stunning, and you can book a free tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at the seat of Canada’s government. 

In the summertime, come back at night and enjoy the Northern Lights. This sound and light show is projected onto the buildings of Parliament.

The Rideau Canal is one of the most popular locales in Ottawa.  This UNESCO World Heritage site cuts through the heart of the city and is a favorite spot for a stroll on a sunny day.  You can even take a scenic  sightseeing tour of Ottawa  along the canal.  And in the winter, the canal becomes the largest natural outdoor ice-skating rink in the world!

Sample the flavors of Ottawa with a visit to the ByWard Market.  You’ll find everything from fresh produce in farmers’ market stalls to specialty food shops and locally produced crafts.  Look for the bright red BeaverTails stall to sample Ottawa’s favorite sweet pastries!

Best museums in Ottawa

As the country’s capital, Ottawa boasts many world-class national museums.  So, no matter your interest, you’re sure to find a museum you’ll enjoy!

One of the top museums in Ottawa is the National Gallery of Canada.  This stellar fine arts museum is home to one of the best collections of Canadian and indigenous art in the world.  And the building itself is a spectacular creation of glass and granite, illuminating the gallery with natural light.

The Canadian Museum of History is one of the most popular museums in Canada, with over 1.2 million annual visitors.  This history and anthropology museum’s top exhibits showcase the major milestones in Canada’s history as well as the art and culture of the First Peoples.  It’s located just across the Ottawa River in Gatineau.

One unique museum in Ottawa is the Royal Canadian Mint.  This museum educates visitors on the process of minting currency and the history of Canada’s currency.  You’ll be astounded by the ‘Million Dollar Coin’.  This massive 100-kilogram gold coin — the world’s largest — has a value of one million Canadian dollars.  For a fun souvenir, purchase a commemorative coin from the Mint’s boutique.

Toronto, Ontario

Toronto, located in the province of Ontario, is the largest city in Canada, with over 2.7 million residents. 

Toronto has a much more cosmopolitan feel than Montreal, and its skyscrapers and entertainment districts give it a vibe akin to the energy of New York City.

Getting to Toronto

It takes nearly 4.5 hours to travel by train from Ottawa to Toronto, with several trains per day providing service between the two cities.

Since it’s a fairly long trip, be sure to plan ahead and bring along some snacks.  There is typically food available for purchase onboard the train in Canada, but the prices can be steep (they’ve got a captive audience, after all!).

You’ll arrive in Toronto at Union Station.  Union Station is also one of Toronto’s metro stations and is where you can catch the Union-Pearson Express to the Toronto Pearson International Airport for your flight home. (Note: the UP Express does require a separate ticket – it’s not covered by the other transit passes.)

Toronto’s attractions are a bit more spread out than those in Montreal and Ottawa, so you’ll want to leverage public transit to cover more ground and save wear and tear on your feet.  Toronto’s public transportation includes buses, streetcars, and the metro/subway, and there are a variety of passes to choose from. 

Best things to do in Toronto

One of the most iconic buildings decorating Toronto’s skyline is the CN Tower, which stands an impressive 1815 feet tall.  The high-speed glass-fronted elevators will whisk you to the top in less than a minute, zipping along at speeds of 15 miles per hour. Revel in the panoramic views of Toronto from the CN Tower’s main observation level (114 stories from the ground).

One of Toronto’s top public spaces is Nathan Phillips Square.  The square is adjacent to the majestic City Hall building and is home to a signature fountain and its giant TORONTO sign.  This is a popular spot for Toronto’s many festivals throughout the year.  And in winter, the fountain becomes a massive ice-skating rink!

Be sure to visit the St. Lawrence Market, the oldest public market in Toronto.  You’ll find all kinds of tasty foods here, from vibrant local produce to cheeses to freshly baked pastries.  Try the signature peameal bacon sandwich, a Toronto favorite!

Toronto is also a popular starting point for a trip to see the world-famous Niagara Falls.  Many tour companies offer day trips from Toronto if you want to check Niagara Falls off your travel bucket list while you’re in the neighborhood!

Best museums in Toronto

Looking to soak up some culture while you’re visiting Toronto?  There are plenty of excellent museums to choose from!

The Royal Ontario Museum is the biggest and best museum in Toronto and one of the most visited museums in Canada.  This museum’s collections range from natural history to art and culture, so you can see everything from decorative arts to statues to impressive dinosaur fossils.  Admire the dramatic modern architecture on the museum’s north side.

Since hockey is one of the official national sports of Canada, it comes as no surprise that there is a Hockey Hall of Fame.  Located right across from Union Station, this museum is the go-to place for any hockey fan.  It’s filled with hockey records, gear, memorabilia, and the famous Stanley Cup.

Art aficionadoes will definitely want to visit the Art Gallery of Ontario.  This incredible museum boasts a huge collection of nearly 95,000 works of art.  The artworks range from European masterpieces to superb modern and contemporary works and include an extensive Canadian collection.  The AGO is also the first building in Canada designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry, a Toronto native.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THIS ITINERARY FOR MONTREAL OTTAWA & TORONTO

Canada has it all – beautiful scenery, world-class museums, and a diverse culinary scene.  And by using Canada’s convenient train network, it is easy to visit several of Canada’s best cities in one amazing vacation. 

Enjoy the historic French charm of Montréal, the stately seat of government in Ottawa, and the contemporary city of Toronto.

So, what are you waiting for?  Start planning your trip to Canada today!

Although she works full-time in the semiconductor industry, Lisa fits in as much travel as possible throughout the year.  Her travel blog,  Waves and Cobblestones , is chock-full of city guides and destination tips to help you make the most of your vacation time.  Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

PLANNING A TRIP ABROAD?

HERE ARE SOME OTHER POSTS YOU MIGHT FIND INTERESTING.

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BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION

Check out the latest hotel prices in Germany right now. Our personal favourite hotel booking website for Europe, is Booking.com, since they consistently return the cheapest rate for hotels and guesthouses. Expedia is another good option if you are planning to book your hotel in a package with your flight and car.

BOOK YOUR ACTIVITIES AND TOURS

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PLEASE NOTE: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on some of the links in this post and purchase something, we might receive a commission. This is a good thing! There is no additional cost to you and we make a tiny bit of money to help fund this website!

Planning a trip to Canada? Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto or all 3? Comment below and let us know!

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24 best day trips from Montreal for your next adventure

Ideas for quick escapes from Montreal, whether you're hitting the road or taking a hike.

We all agree that Montreal is home to some of the best restaurants , bars and things to do , but it's also outrageously close to day trip hot spots in Ontario, New York , Vermont, New Hampshire and (of course!) Québec—hot air balloon rides included. There's no shortage of quick getaway ideas, whether you want to camp by a lake, take in peak foliage , go hiking  or spend the day at Quebec’s secret spot to see the most most breathtaking fall colours (or this secret beach with turquoise water that's worth the trip).

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Montreal

An email you’ll actually love

The best day trips from Montreal

1.  Îles de Boucherville, QC

30 minutes from Montreal

Situated in the St. Lawrence River east of Montreal, the Boucherville Islands are the closest of all our favourite day trips, plus the closest provincial park to the city centre. The archipelago park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking and canoeing, picnic facilities, cycling and cross-country ski trails, a golf course and paddle boats, all available for rental at a price. If you don’t have a car, no worries: It’s the only day trip on this list that is easily accessible by bike, provided the ferry services from Montreal and the South Shore permit. You could even plan a bicycle camping trip on the sites situated in the park; just be ready to carry your gear and pay the small entrance fee.

2.  Lanaudière, QC

45 minutes from Montreal

Lanaudière is less known than the Laurentians or the Eastern Townships tourist regions near Montreal, Lanaudière is less well-known than the Laurentians or the Eastern Townships but has many charming off-the-beaten-path attractions for city slickers craving nature or a small town fix. Located to the east of the city, the suburb of Terrebonne boasts a heritage village core that dates back to the seignorial days of the mid-17th century. Neighbouring Joliette plays host to the Festival de Lanaudière, the largest classical music festival  in Canada. Further afield, you can go fishing on a lake, stay overnight at Auberge du Lac Taureau, sample beers  at the Brasserie artisanale Albion or cheese at the Fromagerie du Champ à la Meule, or take a gastronomic tour of these and other gourmet food producers with local guides.

3.  Montérégie, QC

This Montreal-adjacent region is in the Southwest corner of Québec, incorporating the South Shore and Vaudreuil suburbs as well as the Southern Richelieu River valley. One of the richest agricultural regions in the country, Montérégie is a foodie’s delight with plenty of farmers markets, craft breweries, maple syrup producers and more. Check out one of the province’s most popular ciders at the Cidrerie Michel Jodoin, go for a cruise on Lake Champlain, have a gourmet brunch at a sugar shack or tour Saint-Hyacinth’s public market. St-Jean-sur-Richelieu also hosts the largest hot air balloon festival in Canada.

4.  Oka, QC

This village is best known to tourists for its large beach and Québec’s most famous artisanal cheese. The Oka provincial park, on the northern shore of the Lake of the Two Mountains, is by far the most popular place for Montrealers to soak up the sun on its kilometres of sandy beaches —and an infamous clothing optional section for the adventurous. The provincial park also includes seven chapels with stations of the cross built by the Sulpician order, as well as the usual camping, picnicking and boating facilities. In the wintertime, drive across the Oka-Hudson ice bridge for an interesting shortcut across the Ottawa River, or head to the Oka cheese factory to taste the famous cheese originally made by Trappist monks.

5.  Plattsburgh, NY

1.5 hours from Montreal

Most Montrealers take advantage of Plattsburgh for its comparative cheap transborder shopping centres and international airport, but the small city on the west side of Lake Champlain has much more to it than that. The downtown area has a lively selection of bars and nightclubs thanks to a large student population at the local SUNY campus, including the oldest bar in the state, the Monopole, opened in 1898. It’s also the best place to get a slice of genuine New York-style pizza without leaving Montreal’s orbit. There is also a very large beach on the lake that’s generally far less crowded than beaches closer to Montreal.

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6.  The Eastern Townships, QC

1-2 hours from Montreal

Along with the Laurentians, the Eastern Townships are one of the two most popular cottaging regions for Montrealers. You will notice by the names of towns like North Hatley, Sutton and Waterloo that this region was settled by the English, not the French, unlike most of Québec. The many beautiful Victorian farmhouses and villages’ churches in the area form a quaint backdrop for gourmet tourism (hello, Hovey Manor) that goes way beyond berry picking (but don’t knock berry picking if the opportunity arises). There are no less than 18 microbreweries in the area—we recommend the Dunham, Farnham and West Shefford breweries—as well as orchards, wineries, maple syrup producers, cheesemakers and local specialties like Lac-Brome duck and Stanstead rabbit. The Townships are also home to ski resorts at Mount Orford, Mount Sutton and Bromont.

7.  The Laurentians, QC

1-2.5 hours from Montreal

Encompassing a large portion of the Laurentian Mountains, this region north of Laval is one of the premier cottage and outdoors destinations of Québec. While many will head straight to the Mont-Tremblant ski resort, getting off Highway 15 and taking the scenic route can be a more rewarding approach. Heritage French Canadian villages like Saint-Agathe-des-Monts boast surprisingly beautiful churches, limestone homes and quaint main streets. Detours off the beaten path will take you to affordable cottage rentals which are often surrounded by hills and mountains and constructed on some of the best lakes for swimming in the area.

8.  Trois-Rivières, QC

This small city halfway from Montreal to Quebec City was the second settlement of the New France colony after the provincial capital. The old town here boasts remarkably intact examples of 17th and 18th century colonial French architects, including churches, convents and private homes and the Cathédrale de l'Assomption which has some of the finest stained glass in Canada. Other attractions  include the Musée Pop, dedicated to popular culture in Québec and one of the oldest prisons in Canada, which opened in 1822, closed in 1986 and can be toured today, while the Musée des Ursulines looks at the religious history of the area and is located in a two hundred year-old convent. Fans of Rallycross and NASCAR racing might want to save their visit for events hosted by the Circuit de Trois-Rivières when the smell of burnt diesel fills the city’s air.

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9.  Mont-Tremblant, QC

Situated at the foot of one of the tallest peaks of the Laurentian mountains, the village of Mont-Tremblant is most famous for its ski resort. The resort features over 100 ski and snowboarding runs, as well as dogsledding, skating, snowshoeing and other winter activities. All of this is based around a faux European pedestrian town packed with hotels, short-term condo rentals, restaurants, nightlife , bars  and spas. The summer is quieter here, but all the better—fans of stuff like golfing, off-roading and riding horses will find the resort less busy on the off season. For a more serene experience, head to the provincial park where you’ll find camping, canoeing, cycling trails, hiking trails and other wilderness activities. Racing fans should keep an eye out for events at the Circuit Mont-Tremblant, former site of the F1 Canadian Grand Prix.

10.  Long Sault Parkway, ON

Located just west of Cornwall, Ontario, the Parkway started as a side effect of flooding during the creation of the St. Lawrence Seaway over 50 years ago. Today, it is a series of 11 islands connected by road, containing several campsites, fishing facilities and boat rentals. It also has two beaches  which are considerably less busy in the summer months than the more well-known ones in the Montreal area, such as Oka. Keep an eye out on the drive for chip trucks, front-yard antique sales and other roadside treasures to make your day trip memorable, all of which can sometimes yield more than Montreal’s best flea markets .

11.  Montebello, QC

This village is located on the North Shore of the Ottawa River, halfway between Montreal and the nation’s capital. Its strategic location made it the perfect site for the grand railway hotel and resort, the Château Montebello. Even if you don’t plan on staying, the hotel alone is worth the trip: it’s the largest log structure in the world and its grounds contain cross-country skiing, dogsledding, golf, boating and snowmobiling facilities. History and geopolitical buffs take note, the luxurious hotel has regularly hosted American presidents and other foreign dignitaries at major conferences, including the 1981 G7 meeting. On the flip side, the humongous music festival  Montebello Rock also takes place once a year, where the town is totally overthrown by metalheads and folks’ front yards are rented out as camping grounds. That said, if you want to rock out in Montebello, make sure to plan months and months in advance to secure yourself a place to sleep, food to eat, water to drink and so forth.

12.  Victoriaville and Drummondville, QC

These two small cities in the Centre-du-Québec region can easily be visited in the same trip. Drummondville has points of interest like the Village Québécois d'Antan, a recreated historic town with actors in full costume, the Museum of Popular Photography, and Le Roy Jucep, a restaurant which claims to have invented poutine. Victoriaville boasts the Laurier Museum, birthplace of the Canadian Prime Minister considered the father of modern Canada and Mont Arthabaska, a popular park for hiking , mountain biking and birdwatching as well as panoramic views of the region. The park also features a neon-lit cross that rivals the famous one on Mount Royal in Montreal.

13.  Val-David, QC

A popular part of Laurentian cottage country, Val-David makes for a beautiful day trip thanks to its quaint shops, cultural attraction, cute cafés (not to mention a yummy traditional Quebec style casse-croûte) and nice waterfront views of the Rivière du Nord. Encircled by mountains and forest, the village is a picturesque destination for outdoorsy types looking for a break from nearby rock climbing, hiking, cycling along the P’tit Train du Nord trail or, in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. It is also the bastion of famous artists and craftsmen, brought together annually for 1,000 pots, among other events—an annual outdoor pottery sale by local artisans.

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14.  Stanstead, QC and Derby Line, VT

2 hours from Montreal

You may not have noticed these curious little border towns on the road to Boston: The towns of Stanstead and Derby Line were bisected by the border between Canada and the USA by wonky 18th century surveying. To highlight this, the Haskell Free Library and Opera House was purposely built half in each country in 1904 (a black line across the library floor marks the exact border). The 20,000-book library and 400-seat opera house serve both communities and can be visited from either country without reporting to a customs station.

15.  Burlington, VT

Burlington is the most populous city of Vermont, built on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. Most famous as the birthplace of international ice cream chain Ben & Jerry’s, the small city is also known for its elegant heritage architecture, easy living and lively arts scene. The Church Street Marketplace pedestrian mall and historic district, located in the heart of the city, has a wide range of boutique shopping , art galleries, restaurant terrasses   (read: patios), bars with live music and an upscale indoor mall.

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16.  Adirondack Park, NY

2.5 hours from Montreal

New York State’s Adirondack Park is the largest publicly protected area in the continental USA, and much of it is within a stone’s throw of Montreal. The vast nature preserve contains the Adirondack Mountains, dozens of lakes and a handful of picturesque small cities. If you’re into camping, check out one of the many State campgrounds, generally within range of lake swimming or hiking , or rough it pioneer-style in designated backwoods camping areas. If you’re looking for a more sedentary experience, the towns of Saranac Lake and Lake Placid (site of the 1980 Winter Olympics) have a unique log-cabin-meets-Main-Street feel that combines rustic appeal with boutique shopping  and lakeside resorts and lodges.

17.  Ottawa, ON and Gatineau, QC

The national capital region has the unique feature of sitting on the border of Québec and Ontario. The Parliament buildings and many national museums including the National Gallery, War Museum, Nature Museum and Science and Technology Museum make it an obvious choice for any Canadian or foreign tourist. There’s also Ottawa’s scenic centrally located Byward Market with a farmer’s market and adjacent bars and restaurants, and for those looking to get out of the immediate downtown core, look to its Chinatown and Little Italy neighbourhoods. In the winter, don’t miss skating across town on Rideau Canal, the world’s largest rink. Gatineau houses the National History Museum, as well as the immense Gatineau Park. For those looking for nightlife  hubs between these two cities, the general rule of thumb is to go to Elgin Street in Ottawa and Rue Laval in Gatineau for areas densely packed with bars.

18.  Boldt Castle, Alexandria Bay, NY

3 hours from Montreal

Once upon a time, George Boldt, eccentric millionaire general manager of New York City’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel, decided to build himself a summer home castle in the middle of the Saint Lawrence River’s Thousand Islands region. The project, undertaken in 1900, was abruptly abandoned in 1904 after the death of Boldt’s wife and was left to the whims of the winter and occasional squatters and vandals until the late 70s when it became a public tourist attraction. The somewhat surreal result is the semi-restored ruins of a six-storey, faux French Renaissance chateau with adjoining power house and yacht house. Situated on Heart Island, the Castle is accessible via ferry from Ontario or New York. Though it’s in the middle of the river, it has its own border crossing station, so bring your passport.

19.  Québec City, QC

The provincial capital is one of the most popular tourist sites in the country. The founding place of New France, the walled city is built on a breathtaking escarpment overlooking the Saint Lawrence River. Its architecture is a combination of early French colonial buildings interspersed with British colonial and Victorian styles, creating a cobblestone streetscape that recalls Europe more than anywhere north of Mexico. Attractions include the provincial Fine Arts and Civilization museums , a considerable selection of good French restaurants  and tours done by horse-drawn calèches . If you want to get out of the Old Québec tourist district, make sure to check out the working-class-chic streets of Lower Town neighbourhood Saint-Roch.

20.  Kingston, Ontario

3.5 hours from Montreal

From its spot on the eastern end of Lake Ontario near the mouth of the St. Lawrence River, Kingston has had a special place in Canadian history—even serving as capital briefly in the 1840s before the title passed to Ottawa. It’s a great place for history buffs, full of building tours and historical reenactments, but this student town is also nice for its pubs, market square and waterfront strolls. Start at the waterside Confederation Park, across from the impressively domed Kingston City Hall, and walk westward on the 8 km waterfront trail past the Kingston Penitentiary into Portsmouth Village (actually a neighbourhood of Kingston now). Have a pint of stout at Portsmouth Tavern, which dates back to 1893, before retracing your steps. Other spots worth checking out are the wonderfully curated Agnes Etherington Art Centre (always something great on view there) and The Isabel, a beautiful performance space for classical music (among other things).

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21.  Saratoga Spring, New York

Famous as the home to the Saratoga Race Course, the fancy-hat, pinkies-up place to be since 1863, this lovely town at the foothills of the Adirondacks is dripping with charm. It’s on the site of a bona fide mineral spring, where the naturally sparkling water is not only drunk liberally, but also used in spa services for its purported health benefits. Stay at the grandiose Gideon Putnam hotel (named for one of the city founders) and you’ll be mere steps away from America’s first ever (and still going strong) spa retreat, Roosevelt Baths. They’re located right in the Saratoga State Park, a great place to hike pre- or post-treatment. For some city slicking, stroll along Broadway to check out unique boutiques and taste a piece of history at Sperry’s (opened in 1932) or Hattie’s, maker of next-level, Bobby Flay-approved fried chicken and mac’n’cheese.

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22.  White Mountains, NH

4 hours from Montreal

New Hampshire's White Mountains have the highest peaks in the northeast, including the famous presidential range with household names like Mount Washington and Mount Jefferson. While at the very limit of what could be considered a day trip, the area is easily accessible for an overnight or weekend trip from Montreal and makes a great stop on a road trip to Boston, so that means it gets honorary mention here. Camping, mountain climbing and hiking are what this area's known for, but you can also grab a malted Frappe (a traditional New England milkshake) on the road or head to Weir's Beach, a vintage 1950s-style lake resort town surrounded by mountains with a beach, boardwalk penny arcade and drive-in cinema.

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23.  Mont-Sainte-Anne, Quebec

This ski resort just outside Quebec City is worth the long drive from Montreal for its impressive vertical drop of 625 metre (2,000 feet). In winter it’s obviously a ski haven, for both experts and newbies (you can rent equipment and sign up for ski school), but it’s also great for fat-biking and snowshoeing. Its outdoor sports status also stands in summer for mountain biking, canyoning, hangliding, golfing at Le Grand Vallon course or hiking. With a total length of 22.8 km, the Mestachibo Trail is a stunning hike filled with viewpoints on the Jean-Larose Waterfalls. Time your visit for fall to take in the leafy sea of brilliant reds and golden yellows—and if you’re feeling lazy, do it from aboard a cable car. Go the extra mile with a spa day at either Nordique Spa or Spa des Neiges.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mont-Sainte-Anne (@montsainteanne)

24.  North Adams and Williamstown, Massachusetts

4.5 hours from Montreal

These twin towns have been a cultural weekend destination for New Yorkers since the opening of The Clark in 1955, but Montrealers have caught the bug too more recently. The Williamstown art institution started as a place to house the private collection of the well heeled Robert and Francine Clark, but has evolved into a cutting-edge research centre and exhibition space packed with Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and Old Master works. Stop there first, then head to the MASS MoCA in nearby North Adams, where the giant industrial wasteland left over from the defunct steel industry was repurposed into a stellar contemporary art complex. With the third in this trifecta of Berkshires museums, the Williams College Museum of Art, expect a weekend packed with edification, good eats and unique small boutiques.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BTW Berkshires (@btw_berkshires)

More adventures near Montreal

12 really fun things to do in Ottawa

From a basement arcade to the world’s largest escape room and a fun rooftop, here are the best things to do in Ottawa.

The 10 best things to do in Quebec City

Among some of the things to do in Quebec City, check out massive outdoor festivals and a hotel made of ice.

The 26 best things to do in Toronto

Spooky walks, festivals galore, brewery tours and Niagara Falls dominate our list of best things to do in Toronto.

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Canada Travel Guide: Toronto, Montreal and Quebec City

Located in North America is a country famous for ice hockey, the Maple leaf, two widely-celebrated Justins (Bieber and Trudeau), and poutine. If I were to describe it in one word, however, I would say that it’s diverse . The place is populated with people from all walks of life, from Asian and Middle-Eastern to European communities. This variety of cultural backgrounds is translated in their food ranging from Chinese takeaways, kebabs, to pizzas and pasta. That’s Canada, eh.

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There are tons of places to visit in Canada, but this guide will be focusing on the eastern part considering I only had eight days’ worth of sightseeing: Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City. If you have more time, add Ottawa (the capital city of Canada) and Prince Edward Island on your Eastern Canada trip.

Table of Contents

TORONTO TRAVEL GUIDE

“‘Sup T.O.?!”

Toronto, the capital of Ontario province, has some nicknames: The Six, Hogtown, and T.O. to name a few. It’s home to the Raptors, the Blue Jays, and the Maple Leafs, which are the basketball, baseball, and hockey teams of the city, respectively. But “Tee-Oh” isn’t just about sports. It’s one of the cities that best showcases Canada’s diversity, which you’d notice if you took a quick look around.

GOING AROUND TORONTO

Upon disembarking from the Toronto Pearson International Airport, take bus #192 to Kipling subway station. You can then take the subway train to your hotel. The best thing about their public transportation is that you can use the ticket you purchased for the bus on multiple transfers—like the subway or the tram (streetcar)—as long as it’s one way to your next destination. Make sure to remember your landmarks: the Union Station for the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, Rogers Centre (Baseball stadium), and Air Canada Centre (Basketball and ice hockey arena), and the Dundas station for the Dundas Square and Nathan Phillips Square (which is within walking distance from Dundas Square).

WHERE TO STAY IN TORONTO?

For a place to kick back and relax, The Only Backpacker’s Inn is a hostel I recommend. It has a bar at the entrance, which makes it conducive to socializing—similar to other great hostels I’ve tried. To get there, take the subway to Donlands. When you get down, just ask around for the Only Café —don’t worry, it’ll be within walking distance of the station.

You can also find the list of our recommended hotels in Canada, here . But, if you’re searching for something different from the standard hotel room experience, renting Toronto lofts  could be a great option for you.

WHERE TO EAT IN  TORONTO?

You can take the 514 streetcars, exit at the Cherry Street Loop, then walk to the Distillery, which is a historic district. Alternatively, you can take the 504 streetcars, exit at King and Parliament, then walk a couple of blocks south. There are some dining options to choose from here, but I recommend the Mill Street Brewery for their variety of beer.

THINGS TO DO IN TORONTO

See the Jaw – Dropping View from Atop the CN Tower

The CN Tower was once the tallest tower in the world, standing at about 553 meters. That was, of course, well before the Burj Khalifa was constructed. The tower symbolizes not only the city of Toronto but the entirety of Canada as well.

Take the elevator to the observation deck where you can absorb the panoramic view of the city. Just a warning though: If you look down, it might be a little frightening; the glass floor creates the illusion that you could fall at any moment! If the thought of heights doesn’t make you dizzy enough, you can satisfy your inner daredevil by embarking on an even more adventurous activity called the Edge Walk.

As the name implies, you’ll be walking around the side of the tower secured in a full body suit and a harness that’s attached to the railings above and around the tower. The walk made you hungry? You can eat right there, at the 360 Restaurant, which offers Canadian cuisine.

I like visiting the tallest structures of any city. It gives you an overlooking perspective which makes you feel like you’ve conquered the place. It gives me a great sense of accomplishment.

Visit the Ripley’s Aquarium

My friends based in Toronto said that I should go here—an aquarium holding approximately 16,000 aquatic animals, but I didn’t. Personally, I’d rather wear my scuba suit and dive into the sea myself than watch sea creatures swimming in tanks. However, if you would like to experience it yourself then book the “Sea the Sky” package to encounter both the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium first-hand for cheaper.

Watch a sports event

When I think about Toronto, the first thing that comes to mind is the Toronto Raptors. It’s a no-brainer for someone who is an avid NBA fan like me. Watching a live game has always been a childhood dream, and I finally made it a reality.

Even if you aren’t a sports fan, a live game is a must-see! The experience is very different from when it’s shown on TV, as you get to feel the hype build up with everyone else. Hearing the music and the roar of the crowd firsthand is sure to get your blood pumping! If basketball isn’t your cup of tea, try watching baseball or ice hockey.

Stroll along Dundas Square

They say it’s the miniature version of New York’s Times Square. It may not be quite as grand, but the place is Instagram-worthy. This is where you’ll find the well-known tourist attractions: street performers, tourist information centers, shopping malls, restaurants, big ads, the cinema, etc.

Photo op at Nathan Phillips Square

A lot of people are leveling up their IG game here, just next to the City Hall. Take as many snapshots as you’d like and strike that blogger pose.

Niagara Falls day tour

You haven’t been to Canada if you haven’t seen this beauty—”the mother of all waterfalls,” as I call it, between the USA and Canada—the Niagara Falls. You can take the public bus or drive to get there, but I recommend booking a guided day tour with King Tours for convenience.

They provide rides to pick you up to and from your hotel. Join the others and hop on the bus as you head towards Niagara Falls for a cruise on the Horn-blower boat! It almost feels like you’re in a movie as you get closer and closer to the mighty falls – the thunderous sound, the cold water splashing, and the dark atmosphere is an exhilarating experience you wouldn’t want to miss.

You can grab a quick snack after the boat ride before you head to your next stop: Niagara-on-the-Lake, a picturesque town where you can do all your sightseeing. End the tour with a wine-tasting at a favorite winery. Don’t forget to try the ice wine!

Jason’s hot tip: You can opt to spend the night near the falls. There are a lot of attractions in the area. It resembles a big theme park with fun rides, magic shows, and casinos. You can find a list of all casinos near Toronto here .

MONTREAL TRAVEL GUIDE

“Bonjour, Montreal!”

Did you know?: The province of Quebec is predominantly French, and it’s because the first explorers of the region were French, therefore culturally influencing the biggest city of Quebec: Montreal—the home of the Montreal Canadiens, the city’s ice hockey team.

GOING AROUND MONTREAL

Coming from Toronto, you can take either the bus or the train to Montreal (the bus being the cheaper option), then walk from the Dundas Square until you reach the coach terminal. Buy some beef jerky and licorice to make your eight-hour ride to Montreal (with a transfer in Ottawa) a bit more bearable.

Upon arrival, you can use the metro to go around the city. Take note of Mont-Royal station for hiking, and Champ de Mars station for the old Montreal.

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREAL?

I recommend staying at Alexandrie-Montreal . It’s a hipster-looking hostel with a cool lobby, free maps, and free breakfast. It’s a 7-minute walk from the bus and metro stations .

WHERE TO EAT IN MONTREAL

Try the famous smoked meat at Schwartz’s deli (3985 Boul St-Laurent). It’s near Le Plateau-Mont-Royal. Ask around to locate the shop.

THINGS TO DO IN MONTREAL

Hike Mt. Royal

I love to hike, so I consider this activity the best thing to do in Montreal. Stroll at your own pace across a trail or forest to the other side. Some entry and exit points may get you confused, so my advice is just to follow the crowd. The duration of the hike depends on the amount of time you use to enjoy and take in the view of nature and the city at the top.

Visit old Montreal

Have a blast from experience. See the mix of the North-American and European culture, and marvel at the French-inspired architecture. The highlights are the Notre-Dame Basilica and Vieux Port de Montreal.

QUEBEC CITY TRAVEL GUIDE

“Je time, Quebec.”

Quebec City is quite similar to Montreal – a fusion of old and modern, from the cobbled streets to the interesting street art. It’s probably the most romantic city in the province of Quebec, the Old Quebec being its highlight. The ambiance reminds me of a little French town – calm and serene, but above all, charming.

WHERE TO STAY IN QUEBEC CITY?

Auberge Internationale de Quebec is an excellent place to stay, located in Old Quebec. However, the guy owner is a bit weird and not very accommodating.

GOING AROUND QUEBEC CITY

From Montreal Central Bus Station, take the 3-hour bus ride to Quebec City. Once you arrive, walking is the best way to tour the city. You can walk all the way through old Quebec. If you get exhausted, just retake the cab to your hotel. Do take a bus ride if you’re going somewhere far like the Montmorency Falls. If you’re going to the airport, it is said that grabbing a cab is the easiest way.

WHERE TO EAT IN QUEBEC CITY

Poutineville !!! Make your poutine with the toppings of your choice. Poutine is fried with style. Toppings and sauce are added, the basic ones are cheese and gravy. Who in the world doesn’t like fries?!

THINGS TO DO IN QUEBEC CITY

Visit old Quebec

Just like in Montreal, you should visit its old version: old Quebec. Be fascinated by the European castle-like architecture. The highlight is the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, the iconic hotel of old Quebec.

See the Montmorency Falls

Take Bus 800 for a 20-minute ride from downtown Quebec to the falls, which is the final stop. Montmorency Falls pales in comparison to the grandeur of Niagara Falls, but it’s still a beautiful sight to see and serves as a perfect background for a quick selfie at the bridge.

SAMPLE ITINERARY AND EXPENSES FOR 8-DAY TRIP IN CANADA

Here’s a sample itinerary for eight days in Canada, which is similar to what I did last April 2017 starting from Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, and back. Take note that this will just serve as a reference. You can reduce costs by booking buses months ahead, by avoiding expensive meals, and by choosing cheaper seats at an NBA game.

*Burger meals at fast food joints cost less than 10 CAD and a Chinese meal (duck and rice) costs around 17 CAD.

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8 thoughts on “ Canada Travel Guide: Toronto, Montreal and Quebec City ”

Awesome post

Hi! Great post to help my planning for my Canada trip to those areas you mentioned! I was wondering, if you had to fit in 1-2 extra days where would you allocate them to?

Spend more time in Quebec! =)

Looking forward to Old Quebec city!

Very helpful travel guide. Thank you for sharing! Please how advise how much budget will be needed more or less and how many days to visit all these places in Canada. I will love to travel there. Thanks again.

Traveling is also a major passion of mine, and I spend a lot of my free-time planning out future adventures. I would love to travel through South America sometime, especially Argentina. Something about the culture just speaks to me… not to mention, they make fantastic wine.

Very informative article you shared… This is very helpful for me because I am also looking for Canada. This travel guide is very helpful for me.

Thank you Rashid!! 🙂

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Take it easy on a Toronto to Montreal road trip. (Photo: Getty Images)

Take it Slow and Savor the In-Between Sights on a Toronto to Montreal Road Trip

Canada’s two largest cities, Toronto and Montreal , both offer warm Canadian hospitality and big-city attractions that range from contemporary art galleries to international cuisine to massive music festivals. And while a straight drive between the two takes approximately six hours, there’s no need to rush the route.

Because while the two big cities offer plenty of attractions, there are plenty of unexpected stops along the way. This is a multiday itinerary, so plan for a couple of overnights along the way, such as in Prince Edward County or Ottawa.

Now, let’s get the car — and this vacation — started.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.

Start: Toronto

Hugging the shoreline of Lake Ontario, Toronto offers stellar opportunities to explore its waterfront. Start with the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail , a massive route that traces the Great Lakes coastlines and passes directly through Toronto.

Grab snacks and plan for an “out and back” route to Humber Bay Park East (6.5 miles/10 kilometers from the CN Tower) where 47 acres of park space offer wooden boardwalks, pebbled beaches and the perfect vantage point for a Toronto skyline photograph. (FYI: The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto is currently offering complimentary Zygg e-bike rentals.)

Next, do as the locals do and head to Toronto Islands. Accessed via the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal , the islands offer opportunities for swimming, cycling, paddling, dining and family fun. A great way to tackle the islands is to take a ferry to Hanlan’s Point and walk (or bike) counterclockwise toward Ward’s Island.

Summer months offer outdoor adventure at Ward’s Island Beach or Centreville Amusement Park . To up the ante, rent a stand-up paddleboard or a kayak from Toronto Island SUP . And for those looking to shed all constraints, the clothing optional Hanlan’s Point Beach provides a setting to really let it all hang out.

Back in the city, nab a taste of the tropics at Little Jamaica in the York district. Black-owned Sunlight Bakery offers up fresh-baked bread and decadent treats. The beef patties at TinNel’s are mouthwatering and affordable, while neighboring Enchilados Taqueria aces the taco eating experience: fresh and bountiful.

When the sun sets, head to the pedestrian-only Distillery District , a refurbished neighborhood known for its boutiques, art galleries and modern eateries housed in former industrial buildings. The former whiskey distillery is a visual playground for the Instagram crowd. In December, the annual Toronto Christmas Market transforms the cobblestone lanes into a snow-globe twinkle fest.

Stop: Prince Edward County

Over the past decade, Prince Edward County has become one of Ontario’s most beloved destinations, and with good reason. The winemaking region boasts some of the nation’s best wines, along with landscapes that are uncommon in Canada.

Formed by glaciers 12,500 years ago, the local sandbanks are the world’s largest bay-mouth dune barrier formation. Art lovers will want to pop into ANDARA , where the barn-turned-gallery showcases art inspired by the county itself.

Stop: Ottawa

Welcome to Canada’s Capital. Ottawa doesn’t have the bustle of bigger Canadian cities, but that’s part of its appeal. First-time visitors will want to pop into the ByWard Market to sample Canadian cheeses and BeaverTails (a much-loved Canadian pastry).

Ottawa is also home to several national museums and galleries. The Canadian Museum of History — located on the banks of the Ottawa River directly opposite Parliament Hill — offers a framework to understand Canada’s somewhat tumultuous past and its contemporary culture.

The National Gallery of Canada is home to one of the finest collections of Indigenous and Canadian art in the world and warrants several hours of wandering.

When you’re ready to kick back for a beverage, head to Tooth and Nail Brewing Company where the Rhapsody Sour (notes of peach and green tea) makes a sweet conclusion to the day.

Finish: Montreal

Canada’s cultural capital never ceases to evoke wonderment. A first visit to the city is not complete without meandering through the handsome cobblestone streets of Old Montreal .

With newer buildings juxtaposed with architecture dating back as far as 1685, visitors can see how the city began and how it has morphed over the centuries. Jump from the past to the present with a visit to Centre Phi , a multifunctional contemporary art center that offers a revolving program ranging from VR experiences to artist talks to master classes.

Montreal loves to eat. While the iconic foods such as poutine , bagels and smoked meat are certainly worth savoring, don’t just stop there. A visit to one of the local farmers markets provides the opportunity to sample regional produce and goodies, such as apple varieties, maple syrup treats and a gamut of locally produced meats.

When you’re ready for dessert, stroll to Fous Desserts (“fous” means “crazy”) for crazy-good Viennoiseries, pies and cakes.

To wrap up the itinerary, wander through Montreal’s Jardin Botanique. No matter the season, the 185-acre botanical gardens offer a remarkable diversity of plants in some 20 themed gardens and 10 exhibition greenhouses, making for a calming finish to a superb road trip.

Our podcast, About the Journey , features an episode specifically about a Toronto to Montreal road trip. Don’t miss it!

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38 Best Stops Between Toronto and Quebec City

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

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How long is the drive from Toronto to Quebec City?

The direct drive from Toronto to Quebec City is 502 mi (807 km) , and should have a drive time of 8 hrs 16 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Toronto to Quebec City, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Montreal , Ottawa , Buffalo , Kingston , Alexandria Bay , Picton , Peterborough , and Gatineau , as well as top places to visit like Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park and Cobourg Beach, or the ever-popular Parkwood National Historic Site.

Top cities between Toronto and Quebec City

Peterborough.

Alexandria Bay

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Best stops along Toronto to Quebec City drive

Parkwood national historic site.

Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park

Cobourg beach, riverview park & zoo, the big apple, seabreeze amusement park, national air force museum of canada, sandbanks provincial park, lake on the mountain, holiday inn kingston-waterfront, an ihg hotel, fort henry national historic site.

Boldt Castle & Boldt Yacht House

Diefenbunker: canada's cold war museum, brockville railway tunnel, canadian war museum.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Library of Parliament

Rideau canal, national gallery of canada, upper canada village, akwesasne mohawk casino resort, crescent rockhill, parc safari, mount royal park, notre-dame basilica of montreal.

All travel reservations in 1 place

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Old Montreal

Montreal botanical garden, zoo de granby, village québécois d'antan, marais de la rivière aux cerises, top searches in quebec city, other popular road trips from toronto, explore nearby places.

• Quebec City
• Mont-Tremblant National Park
• Sainte-Petronille
• Saint-Laurent-de-l'Ile-d'Orleans
• Saint-Jean-de-l'ile-d'Orleans
• L'Ancienne-Lorette
• Saint Pierre d'Orleans
• St Augustin de Desmaures
• Lac-Beauport
• Saint-Henri
• Saint-Nicolas
• Saint-Michel-de-Bellechasse
• Sainte Brigitte de Laval
• Saint-Charles-de-Bellechasse
• Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury
• Chateau Richer
• Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier
• Saint-Lambert-de-Lauzon
• Sainte-Famille
• Saint Anselme
• Sainte Anne de Beaupre
• Saint-Vallier

All related maps of Quebec City

• Map of Quebec City
• Map of Manawan
• Map of Mont-Tremblant National Park
• Map of Lac-Brome
• Map of Levis
• Map of Sainte-Petronille
• Map of Saint-Laurent-de-l'Ile-d'Orleans
• Map of Saint-Jean-de-l'ile-d'Orleans
• Map of L'Ancienne-Lorette
• Map of Wendake
• Map of Fatima
• Map of Saint Pierre d'Orleans
• Map of Beaumont
• Map of St Augustin de Desmaures
• Map of Lac-Beauport
• Map of Saint-Henri
• Map of Saint-Nicolas
• Map of Saint-Michel-de-Bellechasse
• Map of Sainte Brigitte de Laval
• Map of Saint-Charles-de-Bellechasse
• Map of Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury
• Map of Chateau Richer
• Map of Lac Delage
• Map of Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier
• Map of Saint-Lambert-de-Lauzon
• Map of Sainte-Famille
• Map of Saint Anselme
• Map of Sainte Anne de Beaupre
• Map of Honfleur
• Map of Saint-Vallier
• Map of Neuville

Quebec City throughout the year

• Quebec City in January
• Quebec City in February
• Quebec City in March
• Quebec City in April
• Quebec City in May
• Quebec City in June
• Quebec City in July
• Quebec City in August
• Quebec City in September
• Quebec City in October
• Quebec City in November
• Quebec City in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Quebec City?

Get inspired for your trip to Quebec City with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Quebec City Itinerary
• 2-Day Quebec City Itinerary
• 3-Day Quebec City Itinerary
• 4-Day Quebec City Itinerary
• 5-Day Quebec City Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from toronto to quebec city.

Yes! You can drive from Toronto to Quebec City.

How far is Quebec City from Toronto by car?

The drive from Toronto to Quebec City is 502 miles (807 km).

How long does it take to drive from Toronto to Quebec City?

Driving from Toronto to Quebec City should take you 8 hrs 16 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Toronto to Quebec City?

Gas from Toronto to Quebec City would cost around $44 to $103 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Toronto to Quebec City?

You could check out Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park and Cobourg Beach, or the always popular Parkwood National Historic Site!

What are the best cities to visit between Toronto and Quebec City?

People love visiting Montreal, Ottawa, and Buffalo, among others.

What's the weather like in Toronto?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Toronto in January
• Weather in Toronto in February
• Weather in Toronto in March
• Weather in Toronto in April
• Weather in Toronto in May
• Weather in Toronto in June
• Weather in Toronto in July
• Weather in Toronto in August
• Weather in Toronto in September
• Weather in Toronto in October
• Weather in Toronto in November
• Weather in Toronto in December

What are some other road trips from Toronto?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Toronto.

• Toronto to New York City drive
• Toronto to Niagara Falls drive
• Toronto to Washington DC drive
• Toronto to Chicago drive
• Toronto to Orlando drive
• Toronto to Montreal drive
• Toronto to Boston drive
• Toronto to Philadelphia drive
• Toronto to Cleveland drive
• Toronto to New Orleans drive
• Toronto to Nashville drive
• Toronto to Pittsburgh drive
• Toronto to Baltimore drive
• Toronto to Ottawa drive
• Toronto to Quebec City drive
• Toronto to Detroit drive
• Toronto to Gatlinburg drive
• Toronto to Atlanta drive
• Toronto to Saint Louis drive
• Toronto to Savannah drive
• Toronto to Branson drive
• Toronto to Louisville drive
• Toronto to Memphis drive
• Toronto to Charleston drive
• Toronto to St. Augustine drive
• Toronto to Gettysburg drive
• Toronto to Williamsburg drive
• Toronto to Rochester drive
• Toronto to Cincinnati drive
• Toronto to Erie drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Montréal vs Toronto: how do you choose between Canada's two biggest cities?

Apr 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Which will it be: Montréal or Toronto? Our travel writers help you decide © Alexandre Choquette / Tourisme Montréal; iStock

Heading to Canada ? You're in for a treat.

However, it is the second-largest country in the world, and you won't be able to visit it all on one trip. Some sacrifices have to be made, which might include making a choice between the two largest cities. Should you base yourself in arty, festive Montréal , with its beautiful parks and welcoming vibe? Or should it be the diverse and energetic city of Toronto , with its delightfully varied food scene?

We asked two travel writers to make the case for the Canadian city closest to their hearts.

Montréal, how is this even a debate?

Though born in Ottawa, Joel Balsam has spent more than a decade living in Montréal on and off, and his father was born there. Joel also wrote the Québec chapter in the upcoming Lonely Planet Canada guidebook.

As Canadians like to say: Toronto is where you work, Montréal is where you live. So as a traveler are you trying to dive into the grind or live it up? The latter? Yep, that’s what I thought.

Toronto is all go, go, go, with huge skyscrapers and people who won’t stop to chat because they’re hustling to afford their rent or mortgage. It’s like Manhattan, but not quite as cool. Sadly, this has made Toronto the loneliest city in Canada . Meanwhile, Montréal has joie de vivre . A je ne sais quoi , as it were. Instead of talking about housing unaffordability, Montrealers discuss art, concerts and fun (also the ever-present road construction and language laws, but nobody’s perfect). Montréal’s streets are filled with free festivals all summer long, including Complètement Cirque , Mural and Festival International de Jazz . There’s always something fascinating to see at Musée des Beaux-Arts or Quartiers des Spectacles , and there is a near-infinite number of hip bars and clubs. Some people even call Montréal “Little Berlin,” affirming its happening status.

Since Montréal was built mostly before cars, it’s more walkable than Toronto and many of its main thoroughfares are pedestrianized every summer. Just try and walk around Old Montréal ’s tiny alleys without feeling a tingle of romance. The ruelles vertes  (literally “green streets”), back alleys in neighborhoods like the Plateau and Villeray, are verdant, semi-secret ways to get around town.

In Toronto, parks are few and over-crammed – Trinity Bellwoods on a sunny Saturday is a zoo. On the other hand, Montréal’s parks are in abundance and have plenty of space to stretch out a picnic blanket filled with fine cheeses, a baguette and a bottle of wine. There’s nothing in Toronto like the long-running hippie dance party called Tam Tams , every Sunday at Parc Jeanne-Mance, and Parc du Mont-Royal is an unparalleled way to behold the city – and its giant Leonard Cohen mural  – in awe. 

Sure, Toronto has terrific restaurants, especially Asian cuisine, but Montréal is no slouch when it comes to eating, either. Vin Mon Lapin has been named the best restaurant in Canada , and Montréal has the most delicious smoked meat and bagels in the world (yeah, you heard me New York). Perhaps you're familiar with the saying “as Canadian as maple syrup?” Or how Chef Jamie Oliver called poutine the “ unofficial official dish of Canada ?” With that logic, Montréal (and Québec as a whole) is the best place to experience Canada – the province produces on average 90% of the sweet stuff and invented poutine. What’s Ontario got? Butter tarts? 

I’ll admit, I do feel a bit bad trashing Toronto. I’m from Ontario, after all. But my duty here is as a travel writer, and I just want to make sure that you, dear traveler, have the best experience when you visit Canada. So forget Toronto and visit Montréal.

It has to be Toronto, of course

Travel writer and guidebook author James March lived in Toronto for several years, and it remains his first Canadian love after traveling the country from coast to coast. He returns to Canada’s largest city as often as possible.  

My first summer in Toronto was a balmy haze of riding the city’s famed streetcars (once affectionately known as Red Rockets), sinking happy-hour beers on downtown patios, bouncing around busy hostels and savoring fleeting friendships with fellow travelers from all corners of the globe. I would stroll through Greek street-food festivals on Danforth Ave, buy nosebleed Blue Jays baseball tickets and then spend part of the game mesmerized by the CN Tower ’s revolving lights. I didn’t know where the journey would lead but I was entranced by Canada’s largest city. 

I’d read a little about Toronto’s reputation before I packed my bags in Birmingham , England, and moved across the pond. The word from elsewhere in Canada was that Toronto was boring, staid and stuck up. A tedious temple to finance. All work and no play. And there’s a sprinkling of truth to this. But there’s also simply a lot of life in Toronto. Few cities on Earth are more diverse – over half its three-million-strong population was born outside of Canada, and north of 180 languages are spoken. The crisscrossing canvas of multicultural neighborhoods makes it a city built for endless food adventures, from succulent steamed dumplings in Koreatown to fiery curries in Little India and so many other delicious things in between. 

Skyscrapers soar into the Toronto sky, but there’s some serious cultural clout sitting below. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is a natural-history museum that has diverse collections running from dinosaur fossils to exhibitions on costumes and textiles, while the Hockey Hall of Fame is the deepest of dives into a sport inseparable from Canadian identity. Massey Hall is an ornate 19th-century concert theater that attracts the world’s finest musicians, while down on the waterfront, the sprawling Harbourfront Centre hosts the Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) every September – Canada’s  longest-running and largest literary festival.

The CN Tower’s omnipresent spire was a handy reference point when I was lost in my early days (for Gen Z folks, these were those prehistoric times before smartphones and Google Maps were a thing), and, at a gaudy 553m (1814ft), it’s still Toronto’s most famous attraction. On a clear day, you can see across Lake Ontario to the distant Niagara Falls from the various observation levels. Those of a hardier disposition might want to try the nerve-shredding Edgewalk , in which you walk the outside edge of the tower’s main “pod,” strapped in by a harness. From the lofty heights you’ll notice Toronto’s Islands, where you can escape the city’s hum and cycle the trails of Ward’s Island . 

But enough about downtown. Toronto’s heart is in its neighborhoods, so jump on a modern streetcar (now with air conditioning!) or the subway and get to know the city’s eclectic soul. Admire colorful street art on Graffiti Alley , eat inexpensive dim sum in Chinatown , pick up fresh pastries in laid-back Harbord Village, browse vintage clothes in bohemian Kensington Market and bar-hop on buzzing Ossington Ave. Stay in boutique hotels in art hub West Queen West, stroll through tranquil High Park , unwind at the Beaches and the nearby Queen East cafes or sip artisan coffee in the hip and historic Junction neighborhood. I could go on. Though the odd truth is that few visitors tend to venture out to these parts, despite being easily accessible from downtown. 

While the city does get surprisingly hot in the summer, it’s also the most joyous time to visit . That’s partly because locals never need an excuse to hit the patio, but also because of the sheer number of festivals. From smaller events like the Beaches Jazz Festival and the Dundas St festival Do West Fest , to big hitters like TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) and Pride Toronto , it feels as if something is happening every weekend.

Yes, Montréal is a great party city and, yes, there are too many condos in Toronto and, yes, Justin Trudeau wasn’t even born the last time the Maple Leafs won the Stanley Cup. But Toronto is a city with a lot to shout about. So ignore the stereotypes and dive into a buzzing metropolis that embraces all newcomers, no matter where they’re from. 

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These are the furthest places you can travel to from Toronto by car

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Road trip season is just around the corner, and while there are countless destinations in Toronto's backyard worth exploring this summer , they might not satisfy those looking to really put some mileage on their odometers.

blogTO has covered travel curiosities like the longest flight out of Toronto , and even the shortest flight you can take from the city. But those who prefer to travel closer to the ground will be surprised to learn just how far from the 416 you can venture on a set of wheels without ever lifting off on a plane.

Tropical and even Arctic destinations can be reached by car from Toronto if you're willing to put in the hours and brave treacherous road conditions.

So, how far can you actually drive from Toronto? It turns out you can travel quite a surprising distance, with the maximum direct voyage spanning 7,250 kilometres across eight countries, ending in one of the most remote regions on the planet amid the rainforests of Panama.

The absolute longest direct trip from Toronto you can take without resorting to an airplane or car ferry entails 90 hours — almost four days — of nonstop driving through southern Ontario, the American heartland and several Central American countries via the Pan-American Highway that covers most (but not all) of the west coast of the Americas.

The Pan-American Highway's northern end reaches its southern terminus at the small Panamanian village of Yaviza, at the edge of a region known as the Darién Gap.

This remote, mountainous, and densely rainforested area forms a dividing line between Central and South America. No roads, not even primitive dirt paths, cross this gap — meaning it is the furthest south one can drive from anywhere on the North and Central American landmass.

Google Maps

Don't expect much in the way of tourist accommodations if you visit, though. If adventure tourism isn't your thing, this might not be the trip for you.

But what if you do love adventure and you're just not a warm-weather type?

Fear not, as there is another very long road trip you can take, if inclined, that will cross through some equally rugged — but much colder — landscapes, leading you all the way to the Arctic Ocean.

The drive from Toronto to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, spans an unbelievable 7,200 kilometres, including a final stretch along the Dalton Highway, one of the northernmost paved roads on the planet.

At 75-76 hours drive time, you'd be on the road for more than three full days to get to this destination above the Arctic Circle. Accommodations in Prudhoe Bay are spartan, but visitors still often make the trek from larger Alaskan cities to see the tundra landscapes and midnight sun during warmer summer months.

I wouldn't suggest either of these trips for the casual driver, as they will take you through long stretches of remote areas that, without adequate preparation and supplies, could turn into a really bad time.

With that in mind, happy trekking!

Francesco Veronesi /Wikimedia Commons| FloridaStock /Shutterstock

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25 Best Road Trips From Montreal, Quebec

If you live in Montreal or just visiting Quebec's largest city, there are some truly outstanding road trip options in virtually every direction whether you want to explore nature, discover historic towns or hop across the border to the USA.

From National Parks either side of the border to some of the most interesting cities in North America and even vineyards and castles, we've got the ultimate list of road trips from Montreal for you to choose your next adventure.

Starting with the shortest, I've listed these in order of how long it will take you to get there. If you're looking for a road trip that will take you further away and have a week or two to spare, feel free to scroll further down!

1. Cross the border to Adirondack Park, NY

1 hour 35 minutes from Montreal (129 km)

The shortest road trip on our list doesn't mess about and heads straight for the border south of Montreal, crossing into the United States. Adirondack Park is a huge Forest Preserve covering much of the northern part of New York State.

The area is home to the Adirondack Mountains, some 10,000 lakes and endless rivers. The vast area covers 9,375 square miles which start almost as soon as you cross the border from Canada - that's only a fraction smaller than the entire neighbor state of Vermont!

If you love nature, Adirondack offers plenty of ways to explore it - the hiking here is second to none and you can explore the waterways by canoe or kayak.

The weather here can get very cold and harsh in the winters with temperatures dipping below -30 °F (-35 °C) but there's lots of winter sports on offer whether you like Nordic or Alpine skiing. Lake Placid is located within the park and is famous for being one of only 3 cities to have hosted the Winter Olympic Games twice.

To get to Adirondack Park, head south along Autoroute 15 that becomes the I-87 once you cross into the United States. The park hugs the shoreline of Lake Champlain and spreads west and south from there.

If you're looking to really escape civilization, head for the High Peaks Wilderness just south of Lake Placid - the drive down from Montreal is a little over 2 hours and you'll find some beautiful scenery that is a great spot for hiking.

2. A weekend road trip to Montebello

1 hour 35 minutes from Montreal (130 km)

The small but charming town of Montebello sits on the Ottawa River about halfway from Montreal to the Canadian Capital and is surrounded by beautiful forests.

The short road trip from Montreal to Montebello will take about 90 minutes - follow Autoroute 50 west out of Montreal towards Gatineau and look for the turn off after about 30km.

A famous politician called Louis-Joseph Papineau made his home here for several decades as he lived at the Manoir Papineau and the town took on the informal name he gave to his estate.

Along with the historic manor building, Montebello boasts the world's largest log cabin - the Hotel Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello . With a spa and a very decent restaurant, this is a great option to stay a night or two if your wallet allows it!

If you are foodie, you're in major luck. The local Fromagerie Montebello has some amazing cheeses that have won major international awards, there's an artesan chocolate shop called Chocomotion and even a local craft brewery - Les Brasseurs de Montebello.

3. Relax in Burlington, VT and Lake Champlain

1 hour 45 minutes from Montreal (154 km)

If you're looking for a destination where you can sit and watch the water of a picturesque lake flow for a few days and do absolutely nothing else, then you need to head across the border from Montreal to Vermont.

Lake Champlain is right in the north of the state and splits Vermont from New York State to the west. Burlington is a pretty town that sits on the water and has a historic downtown with cobbled streets and old buildings dating back to the 18th and early 19th centuries.

It might seem like a small sleepy town (which it is!), but Burlington is by far the largest city (we'll use that word sparingly!) in Vermont with a population of 60,000 if you include its neighbour South Burlington.

There's plenty of nature to explore all around if you want to get out and about to break up life in the slow lane and a short drive away you'll find the capital of Vermont - Montpelier.

Going with the theme of not being very densely populated, this is the smallest capital of any U.S. State with a population of under 8,000 but it's great for a stroll day trip out!

4. Walk the border in Stanstead, QC and Derby Line, VT

1 hour 45 minutes from Montreal (161 km)

For the most part, the border between the United States and Canada runs far away from any towns - it follows lakes and rivers, goes through wild mountain terrain and areas with very sparse populations between northern Montana, North Dakota, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

The same cannot be said for the border between Quebec and Vermont that cuts right through the towns of Derby Line (VT) and Stanstead (QC), a short road trip from Montreal headed south.

These two sleepy towns either side of the border are worth visiting just to see the hilarity of this border that not only goes right through the middle of the town, splits streets into a Canadian and a U.S. side, but also splits a lot of the buildings including a computer shop and the local Haskell Library which has separate entrances from either country.

Although it is rather amusing that long stetches of road here have houses in different countries on either side, enforcement of the border has stepped up in recent years so be careful not to accidentally cross over as you could get into actual trouble for illegally crossing.

To check out life on the other side, there are 4 official border crossings where you can get between the two countries - it might take a few minutes as your documents and car will be checked, but it's usually a fairly straight-forward process.

5. Road trip to Mont-Tremblant National Park and the town

1 hour 55 minutes from Montreal (142 km)

A perfect weekend road trip from Montreal, Mont-Tremblant is about 90 minutes up Autoroute 15 with the National Park a little further north from the town.

The town is a perfect place to spend a night or two - we're talking charming small cobblestone streets, almost European-looking buildings, 2 local craft breweries, a Scandinavian spa, and even cheese fondue at La Savoie restaurant.

In the winter, Mont Tremblant is a popular ski destination. The ski area is relatively small and it can get busy at weekends with Montreal and Ottawa not far away, but if you're only going for a short stay, it can be a perfect place to relax - just remember that it can get mighty cold during the winter.

In the summer, the National Park has some of the best hiking routes in Quebec - the forests and mountains create for a very picturesque landscape. There's waterfall trails, kayaking and lots of different ways to explore local nature.

For those who like a bit more adrenaline, the Via Ferrata Du Diable course will have you crossing rope bridges and scaling rocks 200 metres above the Devil River flowing below.

6. Road trip to Canada's Capital - Ottawa and Gatineau

2 hours 10 minutes from Montreal (198 km)

The road trip from Montreal to Ottawa will take a little over 2 hours. You can follow Autoroute 50 along the northern bank of Ottawa River, Highway 17 along the southern bank, Ontario 417 or drive along St Lawrence River to Cornwall and head north from there.

There's little difference between the routes in terms of time so you might as well go and come back via different routes with French signs on the way and English ones on the way back.

Ottawa is Canada's capital and the seat of the country's parliament and this is the best place to start your trip around town.

The Centre Block building on Parliament Hill looks very European as does a lot of Ottawa. Not only can you go inside, but there's free tours that will tell you all about the building's history.

Then walk along the Rideau Canal or see it by boat in the summer, pop into the ByWard Market and explore the many museums and art galleries in the city.

Gatineau is just across the river in Quebec and is well worth a visit too. It feels more like a neighborhood of Ottawa than a completely separate city.

Gatineau Park and the Canadian Museum of History should both be on your agenda - the latter is the most visited museum in Canada and has stunning exhibitions as well as an IMAX theatre.

7. Go skiing in Stowe, Vermont

2 hours 25 minutes from Montreal (207 km)

Stowe is a massively popular ski resort in Vermont, located about 45 minutes from Burlington (see #3 above) and half an hour from Montpelier, the state's capital.

Yes, this is another one of the many road trips from Montreal across the border to the United States, but it's worth it!

The fastest and easiest route to Stowe is to cross into the United States at the Highgate Springs–St. Armand/Philipsburg Border Crossing and to follow the route south to Burlington. From there I-89 will take you further into Vermont and you'll see signs for Stowe when you reach Waterbury.

Although Stowe is in the United States, Montreal is the closest big city to the resort. With other ski destinations closer to Boston and New York, this means that Stowe doesn't get as busy as places like Killington.

It's not a big resort - there's only 12 lifts going up the mountain, although these are predominantly big chairlifts and there is a fast gondola going up to Cliff House.

If you want to do more skiing, the smaller Smugglers Notch ski area is only 15 minutes' drive away.

Off the slopes, the town of Stowe is full of charm and history - the buildings clad in timber are home to local shops and restaurants and the hotels are generally very good, if a little on the pricey side.

8. Explore the Thousand Islands National Park and Boldt castle

2 hours 30 minutes from Montreal (226 km)

The Thousand Islands area sits on the border between Canada and the United States at the point where the St Lawrence River flows out of Lake Ontario.

The National Park is on the Canadian side and encompasses a huge number of islands ranging from the biggest one called Wolfe Island to many much smaller islands dotted around.

Some of the islands in the area are privately owned, including the mysterious Deer Island reportedly owned by the Skull and Bones secret society, so you'll need to check which you can visit.

There's lots of boat tours and cruises you can go on from Gananoque and Kingston (see #13 below) or you can hire your own boat to explore the are - just be careful as the international border runs through the river with parts of the island group across in the USA!

Boldt Castle is on one of the islands that is across the border. This castle was originally built by the millionaire George Boldt but the construction halted in 1904 and the castle was never finished. It is open to visitors through the summer months and the castle construction is still ongoing using the proceeds although at the current pace, that's likely to take some time.

9. Road trip from Montreal to Quebec City

2 hours 40 minutes from Montreal (255 km)

Quebec City lies further down the St Lawrence River from Montreal - Autoroute 40 along the north bank of the river will take a little over 3 hours but you can shave 20 minutes off your journey by taking the Trans-Canada Highway along Autoroute 20 instead.

One of the oldest cities in North America, Quebec City and the entire province are named after an old Algonquin word which means "Where the river narrows".

Founded in 1608, Quebec City boasts the only Fortified historic old town in Canada or the United States. You've got cobblestone streets, a Chateau sitting on top of the hill and beautiful stone buildings throughout.

Quebec City is perfect for a city break - it's big enough for some great museums, galleries and restaurants, but small enough to make it very walkable.

You can also use Quebec City as a base or a stopover point for trips further afield - Jacques Cartier National Park (#12 below) is not far from the city and Tadoussac (#18) and Saguenay Fjords (#19) are further along St Lawrence River.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Quebec City

10. La Mauricie National Park and Trois-Rivières

3 hours 10 minutes from Montreal (230 km)

It may be a little unfair to put a time of over 3 hours for a trip to the La Mauricie National Park and many people who live in Montreal will tell you it's only about 2 hours away.

However, the road that loops through the park can take some time to drive depending on where in the park you are going.

Sure - the entrance near Shawinigan is just about a 2-hour road trip from Montreal, but popular destinations like Waber Falls or Caribou Lake are another 45 minutes further into the park and Lake Edouard is the place that'll take over 3 hours to get to.

Hiking routes and trails along lakes, streams and waterfalls are all on the menu - head up to Trois-Rivières along Autoroute 40 and then turn north when you get there - the park entrance is not far from Grand-Mère.

Don't forget to stop in Trois-Rivières on your way there or back. This is the second oldest city in Quebec after Quebec City and was founded back in 1634.

The old city is not big but you'll see a lot of pretty historic buildings along Rue des Ursulines with some dating back to the 17th century.

11. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

3 hours 10 minutes from Montreal (285 km)

White Mountain National Forest covers a massive 1,200 square miles of New Hampshire. The best way to get here is to avoid the busier crossing at Philipsburg and instead head east along Autoroute 10 to Magog. From there, head south towards the Stanstead - Derby Line crossing (which is worth a stop in its own right! See #4 above).

I-91 followed by I-93 will take you to Connecticut River which acts as the border between the states of Vermont and New Hampshire. Whiet Mountain National Forest starts almost as soon as you get across the river and drive past Littleton.

There's a lot of amazing hiking routes, camping opportunities and every kind of outdoor activity you may want.

The tallest mountain in northeastern United States is also here and if you don't fancy hiking up it, you're in luck. A $31 payment per car plus $9 per passenger let you go all the way up in your car. The views are spectacular but do take care - the road gets twisty and very steep in places.

Winds can be very strong when you get higher up and even if you're coming in the summer, remember that it can feel much much cooler when you get there.

12. Road trip to Jacques Cartier National Park

3 hours 10 minutes from Montreal (301 km)

The entrance to Jacques Cartier National Park is less than 30 minutes from Quebec City (see #9 above) so if you're coming on a road trip from Montreal, you can choose between a base in the old city, a wooden chalet within the park or go wild and camp.

The drive from Montreal is pretty straightforward - follow the Trans-Canada Highway along Autoroute Jean-Lesage to Quebec City and then take Autoroute 73/QC-175 north.

The entrance to Jacques Cartier National Park and small roads coming off the Autoroute that will take into the park will come up in half an hour.

A mix of lakes and hilly forests means you've got jaw-dropping views in every direction and the good news is that the Chemin du Parc-National follows the Sautauriski River right into the heart of the park making a lot of it very accessible.

If you want to spend some time fishing instead of hiking, this is one of the better places to come fish for trout, but remember you'll need to buy the (relatively expensive) licence first.

If you have more time and want to explore more nature, you can keep going northeast to Saguenay Fjords (#19 below) and then to Tadoussac (#18) for some of the best whale watching in the world.

13. An almost European road trip to Gananoque, Kingston and Prince Edward County

4 hours from Montreal (371 km)

The town of Gananoque sits at the point where the Gananoque River flows into St Lawrence River - you'll come across it as you're making your way west past the Thousand Islands National Park (see #8 above).

Many visitors to the town will completely ignore it and head straight for the boats and cruises taking them to one of the Thousand Islands and that's a big mistake.

The name of the town derives from a First Nations language meaning a "Town on Two Rivers", but once you get here, you may notice the distinctly European look and feel - many of the buildings would feel as much at home in a provincial French town.

Kingston also makes a lot of its European roots and is a little further west at the point where St Lawrence River flows out of Lake Ontario. After appreciating the town's charm, make sure you visit Fort Henry which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site just before you cross the river into Downtown.

Prince Edward County is a further 30 minutes' drive along the north shore of Lake Ontario and occupies a large island sticking out into the lake. You can get onto the island along the Quinte Skyway Bridge or try your luck by heading to the ferry at Adolphustown - just beware that this local ferry can only carry 21 cars per crossing so you may have a long wait to get across to Glenora.

If you are a foodie, this may be the best road trip from Montreal you can take. Prince Edward County is known for its amazing restaurants and the area is home to some rather good wineries. Try a few before you scoff at the thought of drinking Canadian wine and you might find yourself very pleasantly surprised.

14. Explore the lakes of the Algonquin Provincial Park

5 hours from Montreal (439 km)

If you want to escape somewhere truly remote that you can get to within a relatively easy one day's drive from Montreal, The Algonquin Provincial Park over in Ontario is the perfect place to come.

Sure - there's National Parks aplenty in Quebec and plenty of nature to explore in almost every direction if you drive 5 hours from Montreal, but Algonquin Provincial Park is somewhere you can really feel that you've got far away from the busy grind of the city and unwind.

Algonquin is a beautiful mix of dense conifer forests and literally thousands of lakes - there's around 2,400 of them within the park's bounds!

The easiest way to get here is to take the Trans-Canada Highway through Ottawa and then follow ON-60 from Renfrew that will take you right into the heart of the park. Small roads head north into the park to your spot of choice looking out to an unspoiled lake surrounded by fir trees.

Hiking is popular here as are canoes which allow you to see some amazing views as you navigate the network of streams, rivers and lakes. Take care as the wilderness is home not only to moose, deer and many beavers but also has a large population of wolves and bears.

15. The ultimate city break in Boston, Massachusetts

5 hours from Montreal (496 km)

If you're looking for the ultimate city break where you can combine history, culture, the feel of the big city and the touch of a cozy local town, then the 5 hour road trip from Montreal to Boston is what you need to do.

The I-89 route through Burlington (#3 above) and the I-91/I-93 route though the White Mountain National Forest (#11) will both take you a touch under 5 hours before taking stops into account so you may want to drive down and back up via different routes - both offer some great scenery along the way.

As one of the most historic cities in the United States, there are endless museums and art galleries - the Museum Of Fine Arts is an absolute must if you're only going to go to one.

To see most of the iconic sights in the city, you can spend a morning or afternoon following the Freedom Trail which is a 2.5 mile walk around the city that you can do yourself without the need to book onto a tour.

If you're a sports fan, then time your trip to make the most of Boston's amazing sports scene - the Patriots (American football), Red Sox (baseball), Celtics (basketball) and Bruins (hockey) are each one of the most decorated teams in their respective sports so take your pick!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Boston

16. Discover the New England charm of Portland, Maine

5 hours 10 minutes from Montreal (420 km)

When people think about visiting new England, they often think about Boston (#15 right above), Cape Cod or Providence, Rhode Island (#25 below).

For those who want to see the real soul of New England without the crowds, Portland is the perfect place. That and the fact that the road trip from Montreal here is a lot quicker than the other options.

Don't follow your navigator if it's telling you to follow the "fast" interstate route along the I-89 and I-95 route through Manchester and Portsmouth.

It might take about as long on paper, but you're going to cover an extra 150 km which means you are both more likely to hit some traffic along the way and need an extra stop.

The most scenic route is to head south along the I-91/I-93 to Littleton and then make your way through the White Mountain National Forest before eventually reaching Portland. It might be smaller local roads, but you'll enjoy it a lot more!

The Old Port part of the city is where you want to head. This is the historic downtown that comes with lots of red brick, great local shops and places to eat. You can't visit Portland and not try the lobster roll.

The Portland Head Lighthouse is just outside the city in Fort Williams Park and is the most photographed lighthouse in the United States which is quite a feat.

If you want to extend your trip and see some nature, the Acadia National Park (#22 below) is not too far up the coast and is an absolutely stunning place which will be well worth the detour.

17. Road trip to Toronto

5 hours 20 minutes from Montreal (542 km)

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the place where most of the country's business takes place and the heart of a huge number of cultures and communities.

The road trip from Montreal to Toronto is very straight-forward. ON-401 that starts as you cross from Quebec to Ontario just outside Montreal will take you the entire way, following St Lawrence River past the Thousand Islands (#8 above), Gananoque, Kingston and Prince Edward County (#13) before making it to the hustle and bustle at the western tip of Lake Ontario.

You will notice the towering skyscrapers are you approach the city - Toronto has inherited the US love of tall buildings and the CN Tower is the tallest structure in the western hemisphere - you won't miss it!

A unique thing about Toronto is the huge number of different cultures that mix in the city to create its unique atmosphere. It also means there is a great deal of art, neighborhoods and food for you to explore.

From Chinatown that dates back to the 19th century to the Distillery District where just about everything from roads to buildings is made of red brick, you can spend days exploring different parts of Toronto and not see most of it.

Toronto is also a great stop off point if your road trip will take you further - it's right on the way from Montreal to Niagara Falls (#21 below), Bruce Peninsula National Park (#23) or Manitoulin Island (#24) if you're getting the ferry.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Toronto

18. Whale watching in Tadoussac

5 hours 40 minutes from Montreal (472 km)

Tadoussac is a pretty small town downstream St Lawrence River from Montreal at the point where the Saguenay River flows into it.

At this point the river gets as much as 20 km wide as it begins approaching the Gulf of St Lawrence and that means one thing. It's big enough for whales to come in from the North Atlantic.

The currents flowing from the two rivers that join here make a unique environment that makes plankton thrive and as this is what whales love to eat, over a dozen different whale species come to the area from the beluga whale up to the giant blue whales.

You can go on boat tours or simply hire a kayak and paddle out - if you spend a few hours you may well spot a few different whales nearby. Just remember that it can get very cold even on a warm summer's day so wear layers.

To get to Tadoussac, you'll need to make your way to Quebec City (either along the river or the slightly faster Trans-Canada Highway route) and from there keep going along the northern bank of the river.

When you get to Saguenay River, your road trip will have to go over the water in a ferry - the nearest bridge is all the way up in Saguenay. The town of Tadoussac is right next to the ferry terminal on the other side.

19. Saguenay Fjord National Park

5 hours 40 minutes from Montreal (524 km)

Saguenay Fjord is the valley through which the Saguenay River flows from Lake Saint-Jean to St Lawrence River. This is one of the prettiest parts of Quebec and is well worth the long drive from Montreal .

There are two different routes for a road trip from Montreal to the Saguenay Fjord. For both routes you first have to get to Quebec City (see #9 above). From there the slightly faster route is to follow Route 175 up to Saguenay before driving down the Fjord or you can follow St Lawrence River to Saint-Siméon and then drive up Route 170 instead.

The Saguenay Fjord National Park is very remote - Saguenay to the north and Tadoussac to the south are 1 and 2 hours away respectively and both are very small towns. Quebec City is a 3-hour drive so to make the most out of your visit, you'll want to camp.

The Baie-Éternité campsite near the park entrance on Rue Notre Dame is a great option and if you don't have a tent, you can glamp in one that is already set up or go all out and stay in a chalet depending on how close you want to be to nature.

Along with hiking routes, kayaking down the fjord and bike trails, you can try out the Via Ferrata - it is a secure and guided climbing route that will take you high above the valley with stunning views and the opportunity to cross a gorge along an 85-metre-long suspension bridge.

Make sure you book ahead to avoid disappointment!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Saguenay Fjord National Park

20. New York, New York

6 hours from Montreal (598 km)

The Big Apple seems a world away from Montreal and before you actually look at the route, you may well think it will take much longer to get there than the 6 hour drive to New York City.

In truth, most people visiting New York will opt to take the plane with frequent flights between the two cities. But if you consider the time it will take you to get to the airport, check in and pass security, wait for your flight, fly over, get out, pass security and collect your bags at the other end before making your way into the city from the airport, you'll probably have as long a journey.

And better still, driving means you can stop at any of the amazing places on the way including Lake Champlain (#3 above), Adirondack Park in upstate New York (#1) or take a detour via Long Island or New England.

Once in New York, however, it's a good idea to park the car for the duration of your stay - the subway and taxis are a much better option for getting about.

The options for things to do don't need much introduction. From the Central Park to taking snaps of Manhattan from Top of the Rock to staring at the bright lights of Times Square, there is a reason why New York draws so many visitors from all over the world.

The selection of restaurants is probably the best in the world, Broadway musicals and theatre productions will make for amazing nights out and the different New York boroughs offer unique neighborhoods that you can spend weeks exploring.

If you'd like to learn more about these areas and what you can see in each, please check our detailed guide below:

READ MORE - Our Area-by-Area Guide to NYC

21. Road trip to Niagara Falls

6 hours 40 minutes from Montreal (535 km)

Niagara Falls may just be the most famous group of waterfalls in the world, sitting on the border between Canada and the United States.

There are three waterfalls in total here - the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls and you can easily access them from either the Canadian or The US sides.

Amazing though they are, it's a long drive just to come and see the waterfall, so you will probably want to mix in a stop or two along the way - whether it's roaming the streets of Toronto or relaxing with a glass of wine in Prince Edward County.

It takes almost the same amount of time to get to Niagara Falls whether you drive around the north or the south shore of Lake Ontario but the northern route is not only more scenic, but will offer more good stopping options.

The spectacular waterfalls have a huge amount of water pass through them every day, but surprisingly, as much as three-quarters of the water is diverted to a hydroelectric power plant, which generates a large proportion of the electricity used in both Ontario and New York State.

Don't miss the town of Niagara-On-The-Lake - it's well worth a stop in its own right and is great for an afternoon stroll or an overnight stay if you want to see the falls bright and early before the tourist crowds get here from Toronto and further afield.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Niagara Falls

22. Acadia National Park, Maine

6 hours 20 minutes from Montreal (668 km)

It's true - if you're going on a road trip from Montreal and want to spend some time in a National Park, you are spoiled for choice in Quebec and Ontario. There's 4 on this list and plenty of other places you can hike and camp under the stars.

But there is a really compelling reason why you should consider driving all the way to Maine to visit the only National Park in New England - Acadia is seriously stunning and setting off on a road trip from Montreal is the perfect way to visit this park.

The drive will take a whole day with over 6 hours of pure driving to do and although the route is very scenic, you won't pass through any cities or notable places to stop.

You'll cut right across the Appalachian Trail as you drive through the mountainous Bigelow Preserve just before you get to the well known Sugarloaf Mountain ski resort.

Acadia sits on the Mount Desert Island off the Maine Coast - it's the second largest island along the Eastern Seaboard after New York's Long Island and Acadia National Park covers most of it.

This may just be the best National Park for casual exploring - the hiking routes are amazing, the views are stunning, there's gorgeous rocky cliffs protruding into the ocean and there are small towns and great restaurants dotted around so you can stop for lunch.

You can spend a week here and not cover the majority of the amazing hiking routes and on top of that there's boat tours and quirky local museums (the Seal Cove Auto Museum in the western part of the island is a great stop). Please note that, if you are visiting Acadia National Park and plan to drive on the Cadillac Summit Road, vehicle reservations might be required. Please check the national park's website to avoid any disappointment.

If you want to see more of New England on your road trip, you can drive along the coast to Portland, Maine (take it slow along Route 1 instead of the interstates) and keep on going south into Massachusetts to spend some time in Boston.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Acadia National Park

23. Bruce Peninsula National Park

8 hours 30 minutes from Montreal (811 km)

Bruce Peninsula is a rocky outcrop that splits Georgian Bay off from the rest of Lake Huron in Ontario, to the northwest of Toronto.

The road trip from Montreal to Bruce Peninsula will take you west along St Lawrence River and then along the length of Lake Ontario's north shore before turning northwest at Missisauga.

It's a long drive if you're thinking of doing it in a day and if you're planning on camping at the other end, you won't be wanting to arrive at your campsite in the dark. Luckily, many of the itineraries above, including the Thousand Islands National Park (#8 above), Gananoque, Kingston and Price Edward County (#13) and Toronto (#17) are all great options for a stopover.

Bruce Peninsula National Park is best known for its nature. From chipmunks to black bears, there's a lot of wildlife around and some really amazing hiking routes.

The best known route is the Bruce Trail which actually runs a mighty 900 km (550 miles) all the way from the Niagara River on the border with the United States to the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula - parts of it that approach the northern tip offer really amazing views including the well-known Overhanging Point.

Remember that parking and camping can be oversubscribed during the warm months so make sure you book ahead. Think about your itinerary - you'll need to book parking separately if you want to visit places like the Grotto and although it'll set you back the best part of $20, it's well worth the trip.

24. Make the long drive to Manitoulin Island

9 hours 30 minutes from Montreal (855 km)

Manitoulin Island sits north of the Bruce Peninsula splitting Georgian Bay from Lake Huron and is famous for being the largest freshwater island in the world.

It's so big that it has over 100 lakes within it and many of these lakes have islands of their own! Before your mind wanders into an Inception-like never-ending sequence of islands inside islands, let's cover the two ways you can get to Manitoulin.

The fastest route from Montreal to Manitoulin is to follow the Trans-Canada Highway passing through Ottawa (see #6 above), around the Algonquin National Park and past North Bay and Sudbury. Highway 6 south jumps from island to island before landing you right on Manitoulin Island.

The alternative route is to follow the north shore of Lake Ontario all the way into Toronto and then drive north to the Bruce Peninsula before taking a ferry. This option will add about 2 hours to what is already a long journey and be sure to book your ferry spot in advance so your car can get on!

To keep things interesting, you're best off getting to the island and combing back via different routes. This way you can also add the many stops along the way we cover in shorter road trip itineraries above!

As well as the stunning nature on the island, there's some interesting culture to explore with the local Anishinaabe population having dedicated reserves and interesting towns to visit.

A top tip is to get to the Cup and Saucer hiking trail nice and early one day - this route up through the trees will take you to a jaw-dropping rock overlook which might just be the best view on the island but come early to avoid the much busier period later on in the morning.

25. Rhode Island, Cape Cod & Islands

10 hours from Montreal (800+ km)

This one is going to take you some time, but if you have at least a week and want to see some of the most historic parts of the United States and quintessential New England towns, this is an amazing road trip from Montreal through the United States.

Take your pick of the I-89 past Lake Champlain or the I-93 through the White Mountain National Forest to get to Boston (#15 above) - you can easily do the drive in a day with stops along the way.

After spending some time exploring the historic city, you can visit some of the historic towns surrounding it - Salem and Rockport are great options as is Plymouth - the oldest city in New England.

Cape Cod curves around the Cape Cod Bay and has great small towns, relaxing long beaches along the Cape Cod National Seashore and Provincetown at its tip. This is a relaxed seaside town that comes with bucketloads of history - afterall this is where the Mayflower Pilgrims first set foot on American soil.

There are two islands south of the Cape - Martha's vineyard is closer and easier to get to and Nantucket a little further out. You can get a ferry to both but make sure you book ahead - car spaces can be limited and the ferries can be relatively expensive so you may want to pick just one of the islands for your trip.

To complete your exploration of the historic New England, head across into Rhode Island and visit Newport and Providence before completing your road trip and returning back north to Montreal.

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13 Best Things to Do in Montreal

Updated : April 24, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, Sherry Mims

Table of contents, best places to go in montréal, things to do with kids in montréal, see montréal on a budget, visit montréal with aaa.

Whether focused on the best things to do in Montréal or curious about the language and cuisine, you'll find activities and merrymaking for all ages in this French-speaking destination. From the grandeur of Notre-Dame Basilica to the eclectic streets of Plateau Mont-Royal, Montréal is an attraction in itself, a mix of historical and modern inspirations that form a distinct blend of culture and fun activities.

If you have time, wander through the city to get ideas. Walking the cobblestone streets is a must-do any time of year, but head off the beaten path in fall for seasonal colors.

Montréal is a treasure trove for those with an appetite for sightseeing, boasting a storied past, eclectic architecture and a dynamic heritage. Downtown Montréal teems with life, its streets lined with modern skyscrapers, bustling metro stations and museums featuring art and culture as well as cutting-edge temporary exhibitions. And the Underground City , an expansive network of interconnected spaces beneath the city, can be easily accessed through various entry points in downtown, providing visitors a unique shopping and cultural experience away from the seasonal elements.

Meanwhile, Vieux-Montréal (Old Montreal) is where historic structures and quaint squares evoke a sense of yesteryear within the downtown core. Place Jacques-Cartier is a must-do plaza with shops and restaurants that's a main entrance to the vieux port (Old Port of Montreal); in summer it's car-free and great for al fresco dining.

Sainte-Catherine Street , Montréal's premier shopping destination, is long and runs through the city center and diverse neighborhoods, offering an extensive selection of retail options for every shopper.

The verdant expanses of Mont-Royal beckon to outdoor enthusiasts while Saint-Laurent Boulevard, attracting food lovers and pulsing with energetic nightlife, is near Mile End in Montréal. This iconic boulevard serves as a primary artery running through the city and directly intersects with Mile End, making it easily accessible for those exploring the area. Mile End is renowned for its vibrant scene, where you can explore a diverse range of art galleries and street art that reflects the area's dynamic cultural influence.

In short, Montréal seamlessly combines its rich history and modern vibes, offering a comprehensive experience from the shopping haven of Sainte-Catherine Street to the green retreat of Mont-Royal, and the cultural richness of Mile End. It's a city that invites exploration with every corner promising something unique, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking depth in their travels.

1. Admire Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal

Built from 1824 to 1829, this landmark in Gothic Revival style is symbolic of the city's profound religious and cultural heritage. Its breathtaking interior, enveloped in shades of blue with gold-leaf accents and elaborate woodwork, reveals the city’s flair for artistry.

Upon entering Notre-Dame Basilica , you'll notice an enchanting interplay between light and acoustics. That's the AURA Experience. a spectacular illumination event, casting its lavish interiors into vibrant hues matched with an engaging soundtrack.

Note: The basilica graces the historic Notre-Dame Street and is designated as partially accessible, according to certification by Kéroul . Although open to all, the AURA Experience contains laser visual effects not suggested for infants and brief light flashes that may be intense for young children and photosensitive individuals. Noise-reducing headphones are recommended, especially for toddlers.

2. Browse Old Montréal

As you meander through slender byways, it feels like you have traveled in time to New France, uncovering tales from more than 400 years of the city's rich history. Landmarks such as the Pointe-à-Callière mark where the city was established in 1642. The Old Port of Montréal is particularly illustrative of the city’s storied past.

There's also modern-day activity. Cité Mémoire’s grand outdoor video projections refresh historic buildings and structures, essentially transforming them into open-air art installations, dusk to midnight on select nights, that recount the saga of this historic city.

There are also fun activities nearby. Go shopping at exclusive stores on Saint-Paul Street , and don't miss the domed Bonsecours Market , full of fashion and souvenirs instead of vegetable growers these days.

For history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike, the experience garnered from strolling Old Montréal is a sensory delight. Old town is full of European charm with its cobblestone streets and small shopkeepers in the heart of the city. Enjoy theatrical productions at the Centaur Theatre or unwind atop a rooftop bar.

3. Cruise the Saint Lawrence River

Consider exploring the destination from a fresh angle by embarking on a picturesque journey on the Saint Lawrence River . This river, threading through the world’s largest system of freshwater lakes, provides an exceptional vantage point to observe the cityscape. Your cruise will afford breathtaking panoramas, including Jacques-Cartier Bridge, St. Helen’s Island and Old Montréal’s characteristic architectural splendor.

The voyage not only offers stunning scenery but also an immersion into the past. Narration from live guides and multilingual audio can enrich your understanding of historical events and cultural landmarks.

If you're looking for magic under the stars, an evening cruise is one of the best things to do for couples. Glide under the moonlight in warmer months, and see Montreal's skyline shimmer against the night sky — a picture-perfect scene for romance.

4. Find Hidden Gems in Plateau Mont-Royal

Embark on a journey of discovery through Le Plateau Mont-Royal district for an authentic local experience in Montréal. This neighborhood boasts eclectic restaurants and pulsating artistic venues. Take Casa del Popolo as an example. It’s a destination celebrated for its music and vegetarian menu offerings that locals adore. Meanwhile, Café Falco infuses the area’s cuisine with Japanese flair, presenting specialty coffee alongside traditional onigiri.

As you venture into the heart of the Plateau Mont-Royal, be prepared to encounter more than just exceptional food spots with smoked meat and fresh produce — it’s also a haven for unique shopping experiences and cultural enlightenment. Meander down Saint-Laurent Boulevard, where boutique stores proudly present Canadian-crafted women’s apparel at your fingertips.

For avid readers and graphic novel enthusiasts alike, Librairie Drawn & Quarterly awaits with shelves lined with everything from avant-garde poetry to modern prose fiction works worth exploring. Indeed, whether you’re drawn by gourmet delights or passionate about retail therapy or artsy pursuits — there’s something here for every taste including the bustling Jean Talon Market , which adds even more local color to this community.

5. Indulge at a Floating Spa

Experience R&R at Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau, aka a serene floating spa docked within the historic Old Port of Montréal. This sanctuary allows for a harmonious balance between exploration and relaxation. Expect an invigorating water circuit journey through stages of heat in saunas or steam rooms, followed by refreshing cold baths or showers, before unwinding on plush loungers designed for ultimate comfort.

Bota Bota offers more than traditional spa treatments, however, inviting you to try locally sourced seasonal produce from across Québec. Love the idea of a digital detox or unplugging? Enjoy pampering undisturbed each Thursday as a day dedicated to limited cellphone usage.

Whether you intend to slip away momentarily or book a daylong indulgence, Bota Bota provides an exceptional experience amid floating spas unique only to Montréal’s picturesque cityscape by the old port.

6. Savor Iconic Montréal Cuisine

Whether you favor downhome delights or fancy fare, the flavorsome cuisine of Montréal will undeniably beckon you back for seconds. The cuisine of Montréal is as eclectic as its cultural tapestry. The beloved poutine served at La Banquise and the Montréal-style bagels from St-Viateur Bagel Shop — two of five places to eat iconic Montreal foods — provide a culinary journey that promises to delight your palate.

Beyond these timeless favorites, the city’s menu offerings mirror its diverse ethnic makeup. Take for example Ma Poule Mouillée’s unique spin on poutine, which includes:

• crispy fries
• succulent chicken
• savory chouriço sausage
• bold and spicy piri piri sauce

Those in pursuit of a more fine dining experience can indulge in Au Pied de Cochon’s lavish interpretation of poutine adorned with foie gras, or check out the cafés in Little Italy and “Mile-Ex,” aka Marconi-Alexandra.

7. Experience Montréal Nightlife

As dusk falls, the city of Montréal blooms. The metropolis features a plethora of nightclubs, pubs and live music venues that create an exuberant after-dark scene. Discover the best nightlife scene with must-visit spots like Soubois (reservation needed) in downtown and Stereo (no reservation necessary) for an unforgettable evening of dance and music.

Yet beyond its pulsating clubs lies another facet of Montréal’s after-hours charm: its eclectic mixology and tavern culture. This includes gems like:

• LGBTQ+-friendly Bar Renard, offering a stylish, inclusive ambience in Montreal's gay village
• Le Mal Nécessaire in Chinatown, serving cocktails in a lush hideaway
• The Wiggle Room, a woman-owned establishment harking back to the 1920s with undercover allure complemented by thrilling Burlesque cabaret

Whether you want energetic revelry or mellow relaxation, Montréal is equipped to provide memorable nighttime activities for friends and couples.

Montréal is a family-friendly destination, offering a variety of attractions that cater to both educational interests and entertainment. Among the city’s most appealing spots for young visitors are:

• Experiencing the Montréal Biodôme, where various ecosystems have been meticulously recreated, in the Space for Life District, which also includes other attractions like the Biosphere, Insectarium, Jardin Botanique, Insectarium, and Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium
• Engaging in experiences at a sugar shack (also available, February to May, as a private day tour with lunch from Montréal )
• Exploring scientific marvels at the Montréal Science Centre (Centre des Sciences de Montréal)
• Delving into objets d'art at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts)
• Spending an exhilarating day full of rides and games at La Ronde amusement park

The offerings within Montréal ensure an engaging experience whether you aim to indulge curiosity or simply stroll botanical gardens. So gear up for adventure and explore what makes Montréal with kids in tow so magical.

8. Journey to the Montréal Biodôme

Next to the planetarium and botanical gardens, the Biodome is ideal for educational field trips or family outings alike – an essential stop if you're looking for things to do with kids. It’s a place where children can explore the wonders of biodiversity and engage with various species.

Traditional information panels have been replaced with innovative mobile applications at this venue, enhancing visitors’ understanding of different habitats using augmented reality technology and ensuring an exceptional destination for families. The attraction includes an indoor zoo and aquarium experience that showcases four distinct ecosystems. Sights to see range from a tropical rainforest ecosystem to a “waddle” of penguins in the Sub-Antarctic Islands.

9. Plan a Sugar Shack Adventure

The period known as maple syrup season — from the end of February or the beginning of March until the end of April or the beginning of May — is sometimes called sugaring-off season. Depending on where you go, the period might be anywhere from eight to 10 weeks.

When in Montréal during the maple syrup season, you shouldn’t miss out on an authentic Québec sugar shack experience. These quaint huts are situated within woodlands close to Beaver Lake and provide a fascinating glimpse into how traditional maple syrup is crafted — from tapping trees to boiling down sap — all of which your children can participate in and observe firsthand.

The visit isn’t solely centered around syrup production. It’s equally about savoring a classic meal. Delight your taste buds with dishes like hearty pea soup, fresh crusty bread, savory smoked ham and warm baked beans, topped off with a selection of sweets laced with maple goodness. With additional attractions such as sleigh rides, train adventures and farm excursions available for enjoyment — your family’s trip to a sugar shack undoubtedly would fall under one of the best things to do in Montréal.

10. Ride La Grande Roue de Montréal

Consider a visit to La Grande Roue de Montréal in the Old Port of Montréal for an exciting family experience. Said to be one of the largest observation wheels in Canada, it presents an exceptional chance to enjoy sweeping vistas of the destination, weather permitting. See Montréal from 60 meters up (roughly 200 feet) — with views that are equally impressive during daylight or against the night sky — where you will also see illuminated landmarks, such as Jacques-Cartier Bridge and the Mount Royal cross).

Yet ascending to lofty heights is not all there is to see here. Attractions include:

• A VIP, ventilated gondola featuring transparent flooring and sumptuous leather seating for added indulgence year-round (and an accessible entrance for people with limited mobility)
• An adventurous pirate-themed climbing course
• The excitement of an aerial zipline

A spin on La Grande Roue de Montréal, a quintessential thing to experience here, promises a memorable outing whether you’re marking a milestone event or simply looking for some amusement with your loved ones.

Looking for free and cheap things to do in Montréal ? You're in luck. Montréal invites you to enjoy a wealth of attractions without breaking the bank. Delight in the natural beauty of Parc du Mont-Royal (Mount Royal Park) and dive into the city's bustling art scene — all for free.

Follow along for the best free experiences Montréal has to offer, ensuring your visit is both enriching and economical.

11. Discover Mont-Royal's Natural Beauty

With no cost to enjoy its trails — perfect for biking and hiking — along with cultural experiences like Tam Tams’ communal drum circles — Parc du Mont-Royal should be high on your list when visiting this dynamic city in Canada. The vast 200-hectare (nearly 500-acre) green space at the core of Mont Royal , designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, welcomes a range of outdoor activities suitable for all ages and physical abilities, such as picnicking and boating. Beyond its function as a hub for leisure and exercise, the idyllic setting serves as a spectacular vantage point — providing sweeping views over Montréal and plenty of fresh air. Whether you’re admiring the cityscape from Kondiaronk Belvedere or lounging near Mount Royal Chalet (Chalet Du Mont Royal), numerous locations present memorable vistas and public spaces.

12. Learn about Montréal's Art Scene

Montréal boasts a rich tapestry of cultural expression that reflects the city’s diverse heritage. Enthusiasts can explore an extensive range of artistic encounters, from modern and street art to timeless classics without spending a dime, including performances by talented street performers. Each year, for example, St. Laurent Boulevard morphs into an al fresco gallery during the MURAL Festival, which honors the talents of urban artists and engulfs visitors in a captivating world of public art.

Devotees of cutting-edge art should note Centre Clark’s well-known celebrations that open new exhibitions. These events present rare opportunities for you to interact within the destination's dynamic arts milieu. Meanwhile, admirers of traditional fine arts are welcomed at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts with complimentary admission every Wednesday evening as well as on each month’s first Sunday. Mile End is where to find artists and other creatives. For both serious connoisseurs and those simply browsing what this metropolis has to offer — immersing oneself in the destination's eclectic mix of free artistic experiences is highly recommended.

13. Attend a Cultural Festival or Event

The city of Montréal is renowned for its festivals. It proudly hosts the world’s largest International Jazz Festival, catering to jazz enthusiasts, as well as delights families with events like Piknic Électronik. Whatever your passion may be — music, gastronomy or the arts — Montréal has a festival that will capture your interest.

What’s more appealing? A multitude of these cultural gatherings provide free activities and showcases for everyone to enjoy. During June, the St-Ambroise Montréal Fringe Festival lights up Parc des Amériques with complimentary entertainment spanning several weeks. August brings concerts and other activities in honor of Saint Brother André, the patron saint of caretakers in Canada, at St. Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal , which is one of the top places to go. Quartier des Spectacles in Montréal becomes home to various music festivals, such as Pop Montréal, where you can revel in no-cost concerts and live performances in the fall. So don't miss out on experiencing the festive atmosphere that defines this city when they’re in town.

More than its attractions, it's the city's heritage — where indigenous traditions and old-world elegance meet modern vitality — that sets Montréal apart. Whether you're planning a long vacation or a day trip, let this guide inspire you to make Montréal a top destination on your bucket list.

AAA can help you visit Montréal in a way that's both efficient and exceptional. As you explore well-known landmarks, indulge in authentic cuisine or enjoy family-friendly entertainment, you'll find Montréal is full of experiences waiting to be uncovered. Go on a walking tour of hidden gems or speak with locals to get the inside scoop. Experience the best things to do with AAA's curated vacation and tour packages , featuring both guided and self-guided options, complete with accommodations and meals.

Need some extra support? For inspiration, check out Top AAA Vacations® in North America: Top Canada Excursions , specifically Eastern Canada , and reach out to a AAA Travel Agent to book your next trip and enjoy exclusive savings and benefits available only to AAA members.

Sherry is an experienced #AAAEditor and former journalist who enjoys writing informative travel articles and reviews. Her commitment to making meaningful connections with people and places fuels her work for AAA. Favorite activities range from skiing to backpacking abroad and taking ghost tours.

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Best Places to Travel Solo | Money

Traveling exposes us to new places, cultures and people. For many, it’s one of the great joys of life. If you’re an independent spirit looking for safe places to travel by yourself, our guide can be an excellent place to start your research.

Keep reading to learn about our top picks for the best places to travel alone and how to make the most of your trip.

Our Top Picks for Best Places to Travel Solo

• Barcelona, Spain: Best for first-time solo travelers
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Best for solo backpacking
• Montreal, Canada: Best for solo female travelers
• Chicago, Illinois: Best for going on solo travel tours
• Ljubljana, Slovenia: Best budget solo travel destination

Best Places to Travel Solo Reviews

Best for first-time solo travelers: barcelona, spain.

• Offers many travel experiences in a single city
• Easy to get around town without a car
• Year-round good weather means you can visit in any season
• More expensive than other options on our list
• Can get very busy during popular travel times

Why we chose it : Barcelona is a beautiful and historic European city with something for everyone to enjoy. It boasts stunning gothic architecture, sandy beaches, a bustling nightlife and prices that will help you stretch your budget.

Spain is considerably affordable compared to other European countries, and Barcelona is its crown jewel. The city has roots tracing back to the end of the 1st century BCE and beautiful architecture throughout its winding streets, such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and his world-famous unfinished church, La Sagrada Familia.

If you tire of exploring Barcelona’s impressive history, gorgeous Barceloneta Beach is just a few minutes away from the city center. And at night, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options, from rooftop bars and clubs to concert venues and flamenco shows.

Barcelona is excellent for first-time solo travelers because its compact layout, wide sidewalks and excellent public transportation makes getting around town without a car a breeze. U.S. travelers can also visit for up to 90 days without a visa . However, Barcelona is more expensive than other options on our list and can be very busy during popular travel times.

Best for solo backpacking: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Very affordable accommodations, food and attractions
• Is easy to navigate, with a developed transportation system
• Has a vibrant expat community
• U.S. citizens need a tourist visa to visit Vietnam

Why we chose it : Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling and affordable city that offers a wide range of attractions for solo travelers, from inexpensive food and accommodations to an abundance of cultural and historical sites.

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City has become something of a bucket-list item for many backpackers. Its vibrant culture, friendly people and amazing food attract millions of tourists annually. And it’s also one of Vietnam’s safest cities .

Try some of the mouth-watering street food available in pretty much every corner of the city (especially Districts 1, 3 and 5), do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral or book a tour of the Mekong Delta to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

Getting around is also pretty easy, with many transportation options, from the new metro to buses, taxis and motorbikes. However, one thing to keep in mind is that U.S. citizens need to apply for a Visa before they can be granted entry into Vietnam.

Best for solo female travelers: Montreal, Canada

• Very safe and walkable city
• Visitors can stay for up to six months without a Visa
• Toronto is only five hours away by direct train
• Not a great option for budget travelers
• The winter weather can be harsh

Why we chose it : Montreal is one of the safest cities in Canada, and it is only a short flight away for travelers from the U.S. The city has a vibrant art scene, a diverse population and plenty of old-world charm with its mix of classic and modern architecture.

Traveling solo as a woman might cause your loved ones some anxiety. But Montreal is a great place for women to travel alone. The city is safe and offers much to do, from beautiful architecture, such as Notre-Dame Basilica, to artisanal shopping in Old Montreal. And while the population is predominantly French-speaking, many residents also speak English, so you should have no problem communicating.

Visitors from the United States can stay in Montreal for up to six months without a visa. It’s also a good point of departure for exploring the rest of Canada. Trains depart for Toronto several times a day, and the trip is about five hours.

Accommodations in Montreal can be more expensive than in other international destinations, but enrolling in the best hotel rewards programs may help.

Best for going on solo travel tours: Chicago, Illinois

• You can find many different types of guided tours
• Has an excellent public transportation system
• One of the best culinary destinations in the U.S.
• Weather can be unpleasant if you visit at the wrong time

Why we chose it : Chicago is home to some of the best travel tours in the country. From river cruises to walking food and drink excursions, you’ll have no problem filling your time in the Windy City.

Chicago is one of the best places to travel in the U.S. It’s home to a wide variety of guided tours, covering everything from the city’s mob history to its architecture and natural landmarks. And if you love Chicago dogs or deep-dish pizza, you can take a walking food tour to enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants in a single day.

Chicago is also home to inspiring architecture, such as Willis Tower and Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. The city is a more affordable place to visit than other U.S. cities of its size, including San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York. And if you visit in summer, you’ll have perfect weather for relaxing on the beaches of Lake Michigan, located in the heart of the city.

Depending on what you’re looking for, visiting the city between May and October could be your best bet, as winters can be very cold, with average temperatures ranging between 22 F and 37 F.

Best budget solo travel destination: Ljubljana, Slovenia

• A highly affordable travel destination
• Easy entrance requirements for U.S. citizens
• Classic European architecture and dining options
• Plenty of green spaces to lounge and relax
• Doesn't have a strong nightlife culture
• Crowds can be overwhelming during peak travel seasons

Why we chose it : Slovenia is one of the most affordable European countries, and Ljubljana is one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. It’s home to classic European cobblestone streets and its stunning architecture and exhibits can keep you busy for weeks without breaking your budget.

Ljubljana is an affordable European destination with beautiful green spaces and incredible architecture, including the Ljubljana Castle and the Robba Fountain. It’s also highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly, as car traffic is banned in the city center.

Hotels are cheaper here than in more popular destinations such as France or Italy, which is a big reason why Ljubljana is one of the best international places to travel . There are also many great affordable restaurants and open-air cafes.

U.S. citizens can remain in Slovenia for up to 90 days without a visa, making it easy to extend their stay with the money they save.

However, Ljubljana is not known for its nightlife, as many bars close earlier than elsewhere in Europe. Plus, it has become more popular in recent years, and crowds are abundant during peak seasons, especially the summer.

Other places to travel solo we considered

We compiled our list of the best places to travel alone by evaluating global destinations based on safety, affordability, cultural and historical sites and convenience, among other factors.

Although the following destinations didn’t make it into our top list, they’re still worth considering as you plan your travels.

Reykjavik, Iceland

• Close to beautiful natural landmarks
• It's possible to see the Northern Lights when conditions allow
• Home to many museums and several Michelin-starred restaurants
• More expensive than other popular travel destinations
• The region's weather can be bleak
• Long periods of darkness and sunlight can interfere with your sleep schedule

Reykjavik is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with stunning mountains and beaches everywhere you look. However, it’s an expensive destination and experiences prolonged periods of darkness and sunlight that may be difficult to adjust to.

• Some of the best food in South America
• Miles of beautiful coastline to explore
• Friendly locals - many of whom speak at least some English
• Travelers can suffer from altitude sickness in some popular attractions
• The city is sprawling, which can increase travel times and make traffic worse

Lima is a beautiful South American destination with picturesque beaches and affordable accommodations. It’s also a foodie’s dream, with a wide variety of tasty local and international restaurants available at budget-friendly prices.

Just remember that traffic congestions are common and can make it hard to get around. Additionally, some travelers may experience altitude sickness in high-altitude locations like Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Knoxville, Tennessee

• Has beautiful outdoor settings
• Minimal traffic
• Moderate prices for accommodations
• There isn't as much to do in Knoxville as in other travel destinations
• Public transportation options are limited

Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee, but it maintains a small-town feel. It’s home to beautiful attractions, such as the Great Smoky Mountains and the World’s Fair Park, and has enough cultural exhibits and museums to keep you busy.

Nevertheless, there isn’t quite as much to do here as in other cities, and public transportation is comparatively limited.

Places to Travel Solo Guide

Traveling alone can be intimidating, but a little preparation can go a long way. This guide covers some of the best travel tips to help you plan your next solo trip.

Why travel solo?

As with everything, there are pros and cons to traveling alone.

Some of the benefits of solo travel include:

• The ability to plan trips according to your schedule
• Paying less for dining and experiences
• Stepping out of your comfort zone and getting to know yourself better
• Having more time to reflect and relax in peace

Of course, to enjoy your solo vacation to the fullest, practice general safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, do some proper research before visiting new places and consider hiring a guide if you’re doing outdoor activities in remote locations.

How to travel alone

Traveling alone can be a wonderful experience. But it often requires more planning and initiative than group trips. The following tips for traveling alone should help you make the most of your next solo trip.

Research your travel destination extensively

The more research you do before visiting a destination, the more prepared you will be to enjoy it. Pay close attention to the following:

• Climate : Be aware of the weather conditions at your destination to avoid potential hazards, pack the right gear and plan appropriate activities.
• Top attractions : Plan your itinerary by mapping out the attractions you want to visit and checking their distance from your accommodations. This will help you create a realistic schedule and determine if you need to book transportation for any day trips.
• Cost : Consider the average cost of accommodations, meals and attractions to create a realistic budget.
• Public transportation : This is an important consideration, as visiting a destination with insufficient or unreliable public transportation translates into additional expenses.
• Language barrier : Consider downloading translation apps or learning basic phrases in your destination’s native language if English isn’t widely spoken there.
• Food : If you have any dietary restrictions, check the availability of suitable food options at your destination and plan your meals.

Stay connected with your friends and family

When traveling alone, keep your loved ones informed of where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing. That way, your family can call for help if they don’t hear back from you in a reasonable timeframe.

Depending on your destination, you may consider purchasing an international SIM card or an international phone plan with your existing carrier to text and call your people back home.

Finally, you can register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. State Department. STEP is a free service that allows you to receive automatic safety and travel updates from the U.S. embassy in the country you’re visiting. It also makes it easier for friends and family to reach you in an emergency.

Consider travel insurance

If you’ve spent quite a bit of money on non-refundable travel expenses and it hasn’t been that long since you made your initial trip deposit, consider travel insurance to safeguard your investment. A travel insurance policy can help you recoup a portion of pre-paid travel expenses if you cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason.

Travel medical insurance could also be worthwhile if you’re going on an extended trip, as it would cover some of your medical expenses in an emergency, including medical evacuation and repatriation. And some plans even include additional services like language support, which could be helpful if English isn’t widely spoken where you’re visiting.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, check out our guide to the best travel insurance companies .

Try new things

Now that we’ve covered some of the most important things to do before leaving for a solo trip, let’s explore how to get as much enjoyment out of your travels as possible while you’re there. The best advice we can give you is to get out of your comfort zone and try new things.

If you genuinely want to experience everything other cultures have to offer, you can’t spend your days doing the same things you do at home. So take a chance and live as the locals do. You’ll be happy you did.

Interact with the locals

The best way to forget you’re traveling alone is to befriend the locals. Your new friends can keep you company, guide you to the best places in town (the ones that aren’t in any tourist guides) and help to make your trip more enjoyable overall.

Meeting locals is much easier to do now than before the Internet. A wide variety of online resources can connect you to local events and groups where you can meet people. Some of the best options for this include:

• Facebook expat groups for the destination you’re visiting
• The subreddit for your destination (such as r/Paris and r/Chicago)

Some professional and religious groups may have international meetups as well. This can be a fantastic way to meet locals with whom you already have something in common.

Take plenty of pictures (with you in them)

Last but not least, make sure you take plenty of pictures to share with your people back home. Landmarks can be great, but you should also be in some of the photos. Most people will happily snap pictures of you if you ask nicely.

What to do when traveling alone

Traveling alone can be one of the best experiences of your life or a challenge that quickly loses its appeal. To give yourself the best chance of having an ideal trip, remember the following strategies during your travels:

• Be flexible : Flexibility is a must for solo travelers. You’ll have more fun if you take advantage of chance encounters and throw away your schedule when necessary.
• Take group tours and classes : Just because you arrive at your destination alone doesn’t mean you must spend every minute there alone. Group tours and classes will help you meet people and give you a chance to socialize when you’re feeling lonely.
• Stay in places that encourage talking : If you’re concerned about feeling lonely, consider staying at a hostel or bed and breakfast. Shared accommodations like these are more affordable than the best hotels and can be a great way to meet people.
• Gather first-hand advice : You can use Reddit and other resources to read about the experiences other solo travelers have had at your destination. These firsthand accounts can alert you to problems you may not have considered otherwise and new opportunities for fun.
• Sign up for free rewards programs : Airlines , hotel chains and third-party booking sites often have reward programs that help you save money if you’re a frequent traveler. You may also want to look into the best airline credit cards and best travel credit cards if you plan on traveling alone regularly.
• Prioritize your safety : Traveling alone can make you a target, so prioritizing safety is important. Be proactive about telling others where you’ll be and take yourself out of situations you feel unsure about to enjoy your trip without incident.

Staying safe is a critical consideration for solo travelers. One way to do that is by avoiding reckless behavior, such as drinking excessively and venturing alone into places locals deem unsafe.

Take the time to thoroughly research your destination, share your travel plans with friends and family and prepare an emergency plan.

Finally, consider travel insurance. If something does happen while you’re traveling alone, it will provide financial support so you can go to the hospital without worrying about breaking your budget.

You could save up enough money to make the cost of travel insurance negligible by signing up for one of the best airline rewards programs .

Places to Travel Solo FAQ

What are the safest places to travel alone, is solo female travel safe, how old do you have to be to travel alone, how we chose the best places to travel solo.

We evaluated the best places to travel solo based on the following criteria:

• Cost of accommodations, experiences and meals
• Crime rates
• Reviews and guides from experienced solo travelers
• Natural and cultural attractions
• Strictness of entry criteria

Summary of Money’s Best Places to Travel Solo

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