Traveling from Montreal to Quebec City is a popular route in Canada, and there are several ways to get there. The distance between the two cities is approximately 250 kilometers, and the journey can take anywhere from two to four hours, depending on the mode of transportation. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there are plenty of options when traveling between these major Quebec Province cities.

One of the most popular ways to travel from Montreal to Quebec City is by car. The drive takes approximately three hours, and there are two main routes. The first is the scenic route along the St. Lawrence River, which offers breathtaking water views and the surrounding countryside. The second route is the more direct highway route, which is faster but less scenic.

Another option is taking a bus, which is a convenient and affordable travel method. Several bus companies offer daily service between Montreal and Quebec City, with multiple departure times throughout the day.

 

Leaving Montreal

Montreal is a vibrant and diverse city with much to offer visitors and locals. Here are some things that make Montreal great:

1. Culture and arts: Montreal is known for its rich cultural and artistic scene, with many museums, galleries, and theaters. The city is also home to several festivals, including the Montreal Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs, and the Montreal International Film Festival.
2. Food: Montreal is famous for its food, with many local specialties like poutine, smoked meat, and bagels. The city has a diverse food scene, with many restaurants offering cuisine from around the world.
3. Architecture: Montreal uniquely blends historic and modern architecture with many beautiful buildings and landmarks. The city is known for its iconic Notre Dame Basilica and its many skyscrapers and modern buildings.
4. Parks and nature: Montreal has many parks and green spaces, including Mount Royal Park, which offers stunning city views. The city is also near several natural attractions, including the Laurentian Mountains and the St. Lawrence River.
5. Sports and recreation: Montreal has several professional sports teams, including the Montreal Canadiens (hockey) and the Montreal Impact (soccer). The city also has many recreational opportunities, including cycling, hiking, and skiing.

While Montreal is one of the most exciting cities in Canada, you will want to visit Quebec City when you are so very near. Here are the ways you can get from Montreal to Quebec City.

Understanding the Geography

Quebec City and Montreal are two of the most popular destinations in Canada located in the province of Quebec. Quebec City is the province’s capital in eastern Quebec, while Montreal is in the southwestern part of the province and is the larger of the two cities.

The distance between the two cities is approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles), and there are several ways to travel between them. The most popular modes of transportation are by car, bus, or train.

Choosing Your Mode of Transport

By Car to Quebec City

Driving from Montreal to Quebec City is a popular option for those who prefer the flexibility and convenience of having their vehicle. The distance between the two cities is approximately 250 kilometers, and the journey takes around 2.5 hours without traffic. However, the drive can take significantly longer during peak travel times, such as weekends and holidays.

It is important to note that parking in Quebec City can be difficult and expensive during the summer, especially in the historic district. Therefore, parking outside the city center and using public transportation to get around is recommended.

This is by far the easiest way to get from Montreal to Quebec City and the most flexible. Routes for the road trip are listed below.

By Train from Montreal to Quebec City

Train travel is a comfortable and scenic option from Montreal to Quebec City. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, and the trains have Wi-Fi and food service amenities. The train station in Montreal is located downtown, while the station in Quebec City is a short distance from the historic district.

However, train tickets can be more expensive than other modes of transportation, and the schedules may not be as flexible.

By Bus to Quebec

Taking a bus from Montreal to Quebec City is an affordable and popular option. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, and several bus companies offer daily service between the two cities. The bus stations in Montreal and Quebec City are in the city center, making it easy to access public transportation and other amenities, including the Old City in Quebec City

However, buses can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially during peak travel. It is recommended to book tickets in advance to ensure a seat.

By Plane from Montreal

Flying from Montreal to Quebec City is the quickest option, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour. Several airlines offer daily service between the two cities, and the airports are located a short distance from the city centers.

However, flights can be more expensive than other modes of transportation, (generally around $220-$275C) and travelers must factor in the time and cost of getting to and from the airports. Additionally, there are limited flight options, so it may not be as flexible as other modes of transportation.

Choosing the transportation mode that best suits your needs and budget is important when traveling from Montreal to Quebec City.

Planning Your Road Trip Route

When planning a road trip from Montreal to Quebec City, choosing a route that suits your needs and preferences is important. There are several options to consider, including highways and scenic routes.

Route via Autoroute 20

One of the most popular routes is via Autoroute 20, a well-maintained highway connecting Montreal to Quebec City. Depending on traffic, this route is approximately 250 km long and takes around 2.5 hours to drive.

The advantage of taking this route is that it’s the fastest and most direct way to get to Quebec City. However, it can be fairly busy during peak travel times, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Route via Autoroute 40

Another option is to take Autoroute 40, a longer but less busy route than Autoroute 20. Depending on traffic, this route is approximately 280 km long and takes around 3 hours to drive.

The advantage of this route is that it’s less busy than Autoroute 20, which can relieve those who prefer a quieter drive. However, it’s important to note that this route can be more challenging to navigate, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

Scenic Route via Chemin du Roy

Chemin du Roy is a great option for those who prefer a more scenic route. This historic road follows the St. Lawrence River and passes through several charming towns and villages.

Depending on traffic, this route is approximately 280 km long and takes around 4 hours to drive. The advantage of taking this route is that it offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside, making it a great option for those who want to take their time and enjoy the scenery.

If you want to make a day of it you can plan on stopping at one of these two locations.

1. Trois-Rivières: This historic city is located roughly halfway between Montreal and Quebec City, and is home to many interesting museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
2. Mauricie National Park: This beautiful park is located just north of Trois-Rivières, and offers stunning scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

There are several routes to choose from when traveling from Montreal to Quebec City. It’s important to consider your preferences and needs when planning your trip to ensure that you choose the best route for you.

Understanding the Travel Time

Traveling from Montreal to Quebec City requires a bit of planning, as the journey can take several hours, depending on the mode of transportation chosen.

By Car

The distance between Montreal and Quebec City is approximately 250 kilometers, and the travel time by car can vary depending on traffic and weather conditions. On average, it takes around 3 hours to drive from Montreal to Quebec City.

By Train

Taking the train is a popular option for travelers who want to avoid driving. VIA Rail offers several daily departures from Montreal to Quebec City, with a travel time of around 3 hours. The train journey is scenic, with picturesque views of the St. Lawrence River and the Quebec countryside.

By Bus

Several bus companies offer daily service between Montreal and Quebec City, with travel times ranging from 3 to 4 hours. The bus journey is comfortable and affordable, with amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning available on most buses.

By Plane

Taking a flight is the best option for those who want to arrive in Quebec City quickly. Several airlines offer daily flights from Montreal to Quebec City, with a travel time of around 1 hour. However, travelers should factor in the time it takes to get to and from the airport and the time spent going through security and boarding the plane.

 

Arriving in Quebec City

Upon arrival in Quebec City, visitors will find themselves in one of North America’s most charming and historic cities. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of narrow streets, 17th and 18th-century buildings, and historic landmarks.

The primary transportation hub in Quebec City is the Jean Lesage International Airport, which is located about 20 minutes from downtown. Taxis and rideshare services are readily available at the airport, and several car rental agencies are located on-site.

For those arriving by train, the Gare du Palais is the central station in Quebec City. It is located in the heart of Old Quebec and is within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions. The station is served by VIA Rail, Canada’s national passenger rail service, connecting to Montreal, Toronto, and other major Canadian cities.

Another option for getting to Quebec City is by bus. Several bus companies, including Greyhound and Orleans Express, serve the city, which provide connections to Montreal and other destinations in Quebec and Ontario.

Once in the city, visitors will find the public transportation system efficient and easy to use. The Réseau de Transport de la Capitale (RTC) operates a bus network that serves all areas of the city, including the Old Town. Fares are reasonable, and tickets can be purchased at various locations throughout the city, including convenience stores and transit stations.

Overall, getting to and around Quebec City is a straightforward and enjoyable experience, with various transportation options available to suit every traveler’s needs.