Montréal vs Québec City

From the Louise Basin, view of the illuminated Old Port, the sailboats and the Séminaire de Québec, in the early evening.
Jeff Frenette Photography

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!

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.


Québec cité
Editorial Team

As proud ambassadors of our beloved city, we’re delighted to be sharing the things and places we love most in the Québec City area. What a joy for us to help you discover everything this vibrant and welcoming city has to offer!

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