13 Incredible Day Trips From Montréal (Tours and Road Trip Ideas)

Are you planning a day trip from Montréal? You’ve made it to the right post! Exploring the rest of the Québec province is such an amazing experience, and if you’re already in Montréal, why not add a little excursion?

However, finding the perfect day trip can feel overwhelming.

Maybe you’re wondering whether to book an organized tour or rent a car and hit the road yourself, and that’s understandable considering there are some great destinations you can get to on a day tour or driving yourself!

From the natural beauty of Mont-Tremblant to the cideries in Dunham and the riverside views of Trois-Rivières, you’re looking for a mix of countryside, culture, and food—all within reach for a day!

As someone who’s visited Montréal countless times, I get it. I’ve booked tours and taken spontaneous mini road trips, and I can tell you this: adding a day trip to your Montréal itinerary will absolutely make your trip more memorable!

It gives you a deeper look into Québec’s regional life, and trust me, there’s so much more to see than just the city.

So, if you’re visiting for a few days and you’re looking for a day trip idea out of Montréal, this post will show you the best tours from Montréal and some great road trip destinations to explore.

Let’s dive in!

Tours from Montréal

These tours are perfect if you’re flying into Montréal and looking for a day trip, but you’re not planning to rent a car, or prefer an organized trip to one of the many cool day trip destinations in Montréal!

1. Full-Day Québec City Tour plus Sightseeing Cruise

Experience the charm of Québec City on this all-inclusive day tour from Montréal!

As someone who’s been to Québec City a handful of times, including on a day trip from Montréal, I can confirm that this city is pure beauty, and worth a trip from Montréal!

This tour specifically is great because I think it includes all the main attractions, plus some wandering time to explore a bit on your own.

The tour begins with a visit to the stunning Montmorency Falls, which stands taller than Niagara Falls! Then, you’ll dive into the historic heart of Old Québec, exploring landmarks like Château Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world, Place Royale, the birthplace of French-Canadian society, and the quaint Petit Champlain district, one of the most charming shopping streets in Canada.

The tour ends with a panoramic cruise on the St. Lawrence River, offering scenic views of the city’s skyline you’re sure to remember for years to come!

Why it’s worth it: This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historic adventure, making it an ideal day trip if you want to experience the heart of Québec City without an overnight stay.

“Awesome experience and Yu was an amazing guide! Great way to Quebec City in a day and cost less than taking the train from Montreal”

Tiffany (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your spot on the Full-Day Québec City Tour with Sightseeing Cruise

Want to compare this tour with other options? I break down a few alternatives in my guide to Montréal tours to Québec City, so you can choose what fits your travel style best!

2. Laurentian Mountains Day Trip

Want to escape the busy city? Why not escape into the peaceful landscapes of the Laurentian Mountains?

The Laurentian Mountains are a mountain range near Montréal, and this day trip takes you through picturesque villages, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes that make the Laurentian Mountains so well-known.

On this tour, you’ll experience the stunning mountain views and stop by the charming towns of St-Agathe-des-Monts and St-Sauveur. Then you’ll make it to Mont Tremblant, where you’ll get free time to explore the numerous activities from shopping to riding gondolas and more!

Locals recommend a visit during the warmer months, when the region bursts into beautiful colors, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities. In the fall, the fall foliage is truly a natural spectacle you have to see for yourself!

Why it’s worth it: The Laurentians offer a peaceful city break with a touch of adventure, perfect for nature lovers, and if you want to see a bit of French-Canadian nature and countryside.

“It was amazing! Our driver and accompanist was excellent – a great drver, very knowledgeable abot the area, with a lovely, laid- back sense of humor. Overall, the trip exceeded expectations.”

Nancy (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your spot on the Lauretian Mountain day trip

3. Mont-Tremblant National Park Hiking Day Trip

If you’re looking for a day tour that gets you active and outdoors, this hiking day trip to Mont-Tremblant National Park is a must!

On this tour, you’ll hike across the Pimbina trail, where you’ll find different types of wildlife and panoramic views of the park’s gorgeous landscapes when you hike up to the top of Mont-des-Cascades.

The guided hike ensures a safe and informative experience that highlights the park’s natural wonders very well, plus you’ll get to enjoy lunch in the middle of all the natural beauty.

Why it’s worth it: You can add some outdoor adventure fun in Montréal with a hike while soaking in the natural beauty of one of Québec’s premier national parks.

“Really nice day outdoors ! We went to the Pimbina area which was quiet and away from the world 🥰”

chloé (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your spot on the Mont-Tremblant National Park Hiking Trip

4. Omega Park Wildlife Safari with Pro Photos

Want to interact and responsibly feed wild animals? You won’t want to miss this tour!

A day tour to the Omega Park Wildlife is an opportunity to embark on a unique wildlife adventure, safari-style. This tour allows you to observe animals like deer, bison, wolves, and bears in their natural habitats, unlike anywhere else near Montréal!

Plus, a professional photographer accompanies the tour, and they’ll be able to capture memorable moments as you feed and interact with the animals for memories to last a lifetime.

Why it’s worth it: This is a perfect tour for everyone looking to interact with animals in their natural habitat! From families to animal lovers, this tour offers an educational and immersive wildlife experience close to Montréal.

“We had an unforgettable day with my 9-year-old daughter! Alejandro was very friendly and took us to the best spots to observe the animals. We even had the chance to pet a bison’s head!”

Guadeloupe (read more reviews)

✅ BOOK your spot on the Omega Park Wildlife Safari

If you’re basing yourself in the city and planning to take day trips like this one, here’s my full guide on where to stay in Montréal—from centrally located hotels to budget-friendly picks near major departure points.

5. Eastern Townships Region Day Trip

Want to explore more of the Québecois countryside and towns? Discover the Eastern Townships!

The Eastern Townships region is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage that blends French and Canadian influences.

This day trip includes visits to 6 towns, where you’ll explore everything from the Victorian style architecture to serene lakes, historic abbeys, and beautiful parks, while learning more about the area’s history and culture from your knowledgeable guide.

Why it’s worth it: Visiting the Eastern Townships is an opportunity to experience the blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that defines eastern Canada. This is your tour if you’re looking for cultural insight and pretty sights!

“Exceptional guide! a must do, this tour allows you to see the typical side of Quebec.”

read more reviews here

✅ BOOK your spot on the Eastern Townships Region Day Trip

Road Trip ideas from Montréal

If you prefer the freedom of exploring at your own pace, consider these road trip destinations, each offering unique attractions and experiences!

6. Trois-Rivières

If you’re in the mood for a day trip that combines riverside views with French-Canadian culture, Trois-Rivières is a great pick! And it’s only about 1.5 hours from Montréal by car.

This small city sits right along the St. Lawrence River and offers a mix of historical attractions and artsy vibes.

One of the most unique experiences here is a guided tour of the Old Prison, where former inmates once stayed. You’ll get a glimpse of what life behind bars used to be like.

After that, stroll through Old Trois-Rivières to find cute cafés, art galleries, and museums like the Boréalis, which showcases the region’s pulp and paper history in a surprisingly cool way.

Why it’s worth it: This is one of those trips from Montréal that combines city, culture, and history without the hustle and bustle of the city. Plus, it’s perfect for photography lovers and anyone into old architecture or riverside walks.

7. Sorel-Tracy

For a quieter and nature-focused escape, consider Sorel-Tracy! Sorel-Tracy is a town mostly known for its maritime roots and peaceful natural spaces.

Located about an hour from Montréal, Sorel-Tracy is the gateway to the Lac Saint-Pierre Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-protected area that’s a paradise for birdwatching and nature walks.

You can take a boat tour around the nearby islands or stroll along the river to spot herons and eagles, depending on the season!

The town also has a shipbuilding history, and you’ll see traces of it in the small museums and historic shipyard buildings.

Why it’s worth it: If you want to slow down and experience the natural beauty of the Québec region without venturing too far, Sorel-Tracy is ideal for a quiet, nature-filled day trip from Montréal, especially during warmer months.

🚗 Need a rental car in Montréal? Check out the best rental deals!

8. Saint-Sauveur

Looking for a day trip that feels like a resort getaway without leaving the Québec region? Saint-Sauveur is just under an hour away and full of charm in every season!

This little resort town in the Laurentians offers skiing in winter, hiking in the summer, and festivals and outdoor concerts almost year-round.

The Main Street is lined with boutiques, cute restaurants, and cafés that feel straight out of a Hallmark movie, and if you want to, you can also relax at a Nordic spa or go ziplining in warmer weather. It’s a great option if you want a weekend getaway vibe without needing to stay overnight!

Why it’s worth it: Whether you’re after shopping, spa time, or fresh air, Saint-Sauveur has something for everyone and is one of the best quick weekend trips from Montréal.

9. Knowlton (Lac-Brome)

If your ideal day trip from Montréal includes a lakeside stroll, antique shopping, and cozy bookshops, Knowlton (in Lac-Brome) is the place to visit!

Roughly 90 minutes from Montréal, this quaint English-speaking town is packed with charm and literary history. Known for its artsy roots and heritage buildings, Knowlton is a lovely place to slow down, explore art galleries, and sip coffee on a terrace overlooking the lake. There’s even a local museum to learn about the region’s Loyalist roots.

In autumn, the streets are bursting with color, so it’s also a great time to plan a visit!

Why it’s worth it: Knowlton is the kind of small town perfect for travelers who love slow travel, cozy vibes, and meaningful moments.

10. Hudson

Want a road trip destination that’s effortlessly cool and laid-back? Hudson is an English-speaking town with boho vibes, only 45 minutes from downtown Montréal.

This town sits right along the Lake of Two Mountains and is known for its arts community, weekend markets, and indie cafés. You can browse local art galleries, shop for one-of-a-kind pieces at small boutiques, or sip wine by the water at a low-key restaurant.

It’s also a great stop for those who love supporting local makers and want a little taste of cottage-country life without going far.

Why it’s worth it: if you’re looking for something relaxed, artsy, and slow-paced, Hudson is it! It offers a calm, artsy experience that feels worlds away from the city while still being an easy day trip.

11. Dunham

Do you love wine? Dunham is one of the oldest vineyard towns in the Québec region, and it’s the ultimate countryside escape for foodies!

Just under two hours from Montréal, Dunham is located in the heart of the Eastern Townships and is known for its cideries, vineyards, and microbreweries.

You can spend the day doing tastings, enjoying a picnic in the vineyard, a walk in nature, followed by a cider tasting, and chatting with passionate local producers. The surrounding farmland and peaceful rural roads also make it a scenic drive.

Why it’s worth it: For travelers who want to taste the best of the province’s local drinks and take in natural beauty, Dunham offers that and much more on a relaxing trip from Montréal by car.

12. Rougemont

Rougemont is an easy favorite in fall, thanks to its apple orchards, colorful fall foliage, and cozy countryside feel.

Only about an hour from Montréal, Rougemont is especially popular in September and October when it’s apple-picking season and the cider mills are in full swing!

You can visit orchards that offer tastings, cider donuts, and apple-based products galore. Many also have gorgeous picnic areas and activities for kids, making it one of the best family trips from Montréal!

Love cider? Don’t skip the hard cider tastings! Some of the best in North America are made right here.

Why it’s worth it: Rougemont has it all: a natural fall escape, perfect for couples, friends, or families looking for an authentic, seasonal day trip from Montréal.

13. Hemmingford

Just over an hour south of the city, Hemmingford offers a mix of rustic charm, wine tastings, and kid-friendly fun!

It’s home to some great local wineries and family farms where you can pick your own fruit depending on the season, from apples in fall to berries in summer!

Many of the vineyards have tasting rooms, while some farms include petting zoos and hayrides. It’s also near Parc Safari if you want to turn your day trip into something a little more adventurous.

Why it’s worth it: Hemmingford is one of those rare spots that offers something for everyone, from wine, food, farm fun, and even wildlife.

Seasonal Activities To Experience in Montréal

These are some of the most popular activities to do on road trips throughout Montréal, depending on the season.

• Winter: Ice fishing, skiing, spa retreats

• Spring: Maple syrup farms, blooming gardens

• Summer: Lakeside beach days, fruit picking

• Fall: Fall foliage, wine harvests

Tips for Planning the Perfect Day Trip from Montréal

• How to time your departure and return:
  • Leave early: Most tours will start early in the morning between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, but if you’re planning a road trip, aim to leave Montréal between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM if you want to maximize your time and avoid traffic. Trust me, Montréal traffic can be heavy during rush hour!
  • Check local hours. Some shops, wineries, or attractions don’t open until 10 or 11 AM, so plan your timing around that.
  • Avoid the 4–6 PM return rush. Again, if you’re driving back into Montréal, traffic can be insane. Either leave before 3:30 PM or after 6 PM to avoid sitting in traffic for a while.

• What to pack for a full-day adventure:
  • Water bottle + snacks: Even if you’re doing a tour with food, it’s good to stay hydrated and have a snack handy (especially for nature-focused trips).
  • Portable phone charger: If you’re using Google Maps or taking lots of photos, your battery will drain fast and a portable phone charger is a good idea to bring along in your travel essentials. Don’t have coverage in Canada? Consider an eSIM like Maya Mobile!
  • Comfortable shoes: Whether you’re walking cobblestone streets or hiking a trail, supportive shoes like sneakers are a must.
  • Layers + weather gear: Packing for a day trip, whether athleisure or not, no matter where you go, is important since you’ll be out all day! A light rain jacket, hat, or extra sweater will save your day if the weather turns or the wind picks up near a lake or park.
  • Reusable bag or tote: Great for purchases from local boutiques, markets, or cideries, or just carrying around your things in a sturdy, good-sized day bag!

• Local etiquette when visiting small towns
  • Say bonjour! Even in English-speaking towns, a warm “bonjour” goes a long way in showing respect and friendliness. Locals really appreciate it!
  • Support small businesses. Skip the chains and try a local café, bakery, or boutique. They’re better anyway.
  • Ask before taking photos. Especially if you’re taking pictures of people, their storefronts, or property.

• How to avoid peak crowds and parking issues
  • Travel on weekdays if your schedule allows, especially in high season (July, August, fall foliage season).
  • Arrive early to popular spots like Mont-Tremblant, Saint-Sauveur, or Rougemont, where parking fills up fast.
  • Download offline maps. Cell service can be spotty in rural or mountainous areas, so make sure your directions and any parking instructions are saved ahead of time!

If you’re still in the planning phase of your trip, this post on how to plan a trip to Montréal covers the essentials—from budgeting to transportation and seasonal tips. Plus, Montréal has its own unique quirks and cultural norms that are good to know ahead of time—especially if it’s your first visit. Be sure to check out my post on 7 things you should know before traveling to Montréal so you’re prepped and ready!

Ready to plan your day trip?

After exploring all there is to do in Montréal, a day trip is surely one of the best things to add to your itinerary!

I hope this list of day trip ideas inspires you to find some ideas for yourself as you venture through French Canada, whether you opt for a tour or a road trip destination.

Ready to choose where you’ll be headed? Let me know in the comments below!

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