Montréal vs Québec City
Planning a trip to Montréal? Find out why you should also visit Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage city only 2.5 hours from Montréal.
Wondering if you should visit Montréal or Québec City? They are both worth a visit and only 2.5 hours away!
Jeff Frenette Photography
Jeff Frenette Photography- Fred Photo et Vidéo
Emmanuel Coveney
Montréal vs Québec City in Canada
The vibe of Montréal and of Québec City are both different and complementary. While Montréal is big and cosmopolitan, Québec City is cozy and very welcoming. A trip to Montréal and Québec City is a trip into the heart and soul of French Canada.
In Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, make time to connect with history. Québec City is the only fortified city north of Mexico. Admire the city’s beautiful European architecture and explore the famous Château Frontenac. Walk the cobblestone streets of lower town and along the fortification walls.
As the birthplace of French Canadian culture, Québec City is the ideal destination to discover the flavours and traditions of Québécois cuisine, as well as the beauty of the natural landscapes that are just a short drive from downtown. And even if the first language of most of the locals is French, you’ll find service in English in all places related to tourism.
How to Get from Montréal to Québec City?
The distance between Montréal and Québec City is about 250 km (155 miles). Here are the best ways to travel between Montréal and Québec City:
Montréal to Québec City by car
The most popular, and fastest, driving route between Montréal and Québec City is highway 20. The journey, depending on traffic, can take between 2h45 and 3 hours.
Montréal to Québec City by bus
Travelling with Orléans Express bus lines between Montréal and Québec City is the best way to travel between the two cities if you are on a budget. The buses are comfortable, with Wi-Fi and electric outlets onboard. The journey takes about 3 hours and tickets start at around $25 one-way. Buses leave downtown Montréal every hour, from 06:00 to 23:00 and arrive at Gare du Palais in downtown Québec City.
Montréal to Québec City by train
Travelling by train from Montréal to Québec City with VIA Rail is another great way to travel. Seats are comfortable and Wi-Fi is available onboard. The trip takes between 3h15 and 3h45, departing from Montréal Central Station and arriving at Gare du Palais in downtown Québec City. Fares start at $30 one-way for the economy class.
