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The 7 best day trips from Montreal
Discover the top destinations for spontaneous day trips from Montreal: by car, by train, and nearby spots perfect for quick getaways.
Thanks to Montreal’s central location, excellent transport connections, and proximity to nature and nearby border towns, planning a quick escape is easy.
This guide highlights the best day trips from Montreal, ranging from local Quebec getaways to cross-border spots, including no-car trips, spontaneous escapes, and train-accessible routes.
We also include travel tips, average costs from Montreal, travel times, and top activities for each destination to help you make the most of your trip. For more travel ideas, you can check out our Canada travel guide.
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Quick picks: Where to go from Montreal
To make planning simple, we’ve listed the top travel destinations for day trips from Montreal below, complete with all the practical information you need.
| Destination | Travel time | Highlights | Best for | Average cost (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mont-Tremblant | 1.5–2 hrs by car; shuttle/bus | Scenic village, lakes, forests | Families, couples, adventure seekers, nature lovers | $100–$200 |
| The Laurentians | 1–2 hrs by car; bus/tours | Hills, forests, lakes, small towns | Outdoor enthusiasts, families, couples | $80–$150 |
| Parc Omega | 1–1.5 hrs by car | Wildlife park, drive-through, trails | Families, animal lovers | Adults: $30–$40; children: $20–$25 |
| Quebec City | 2.5–3 hrs by car; rail/bus | Historic streets, Château Frontenac, riverfront | History buffs, couples, food lovers, cultural explorers | $120–$200 |
| Burlington, Vermont | 1.5–2 hrs by car; bus/train | Lakeside city, arts scene | Families, couples, outdoor enthusiasts | $120–$200 |
| Lake Placid, NY | ~2 hrs by car; bus/tours | Mountain town, Olympic history | Outdoor enthusiasts, families, couples, winter sports lovers | $120–$200 |
| Stowe, Vermont | 1.5–2 hrs by car; bus | Mountains, village, outdoor recreation | Families, couples, outdoor enthusiasts, winter sports lovers | $120–$200 |
Best day trips from Montreal in Quebec
From rugged mountains to historic streets, these Quebec destinations offer accessible escapes from Montreal.
Mont-Tremblant
Nestled in the Laurentians, Mont-Tremblant blends alpine charm with year-round outdoor adventure. The pedestrian village offers cozy cafes and boutique shops, while the surrounding mountains and lakes invite skiing in winter and hiking or paddling in summer.
Climate: −10°C to −2°C during winter; 20°C to 25°C during summer.
How to get there: About 1.5–2 hours by car from Montreal; shuttle and bus services are also available for a convenient day trip.
Top activities:
- Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort.
- Hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting in Mont-Tremblant National Park.
- Paddleboarding, canoeing, or swimming at Lake Tremblant.
- Strolling through the pedestrian village with cafes and restaurants.
Best for: Families, couples, adventure seekers, and nature lovers.
Average cost: A day trip, including transport, park access, and meals, costs approximately $100–$200 CAD per person.
The Laurentians
The Laurentians region is a nature lover’s paradise just north of Montreal, with rolling hills, dense forests, and sparkling lakes. Its charming small towns, artisan shops, and scenic landscapes make it an ideal destination for a relaxing day trip or weekend getaway.
Climate: −15°C to −5°C during winter; 18°C to 25°C during summer.
How to get there: About 1–2 hours by car from Montreal; regional bus services and guided tours also provide easy access.
Top activities:
- Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at regional ski resorts.
- Hiking, cycling, and canoeing in nature parks like Parc régional de la Rivière-du-Nord.
- Exploring small towns such as Saint-Sauveur and Sainte-Adèle for boutique shopping and local cuisine.
- Seasonal festivals, farmers’ markets, and scenic drives through the countryside.
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, couples, and anyone seeking a peaceful nature escape.
Average cost: A day trip with transport, park access, and meals costs around $80–$150 CAD per person.
Parc Omega
Parc Omega is a wildlife park offering a close-up view of Canadian animals in their natural habitats. Its scenic drive-through layout, walking trails, and picnic areas create an immersive experience in nature, making it a great day trip from Montreal for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Climate: −15°C to −5°C during winter; 18°C to 25°C during summer.
How to get there: About 1–1.5 hours by car from Montreal; no public transport directly, so driving is recommended.
Top activities:
- Drive or walk through the park to observe bison, deer, elk, wolves, and bears.
- Take nature trails to explore smaller habitats and observation points.
- Enjoy picnic areas, educational exhibits, and interactive activities for kids.
- Seasonal events like maple syrup demonstrations in spring.
Best for: Families, animal lovers, and anyone looking for a fun, educational outdoor experience.
Average cost: Admission for a day visit costs approximately $30–$40 CAD per adult and $20–$25 CAD per child; additional cost for guided tours or special activities.
Quebec City
Quebec City is a historic destination with charming cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and a vibrant French-Canadian culture. Its scenic riverfront, boutique shops, and lively neighborhoods make it an ideal day trip or overnight getaway from Montreal, offering a mix of history, culture, and local flavor.
Climate: −12°C to −3°C during winter; 18°C to 24°C during summer.
How to get there: About 2.5–3 hours by car from Montreal; VIA Rail and bus services offer convenient day-trip options.
Top activities:
- Explore Old Quebec’s historic streets, shops, and cafes.
- Visit Château Frontenac, the Citadelle of Quebec, and the Plains of Abraham.
- Enjoy riverfront walks along the St. Lawrence or take a boat tour.
- Sample French-Canadian cuisine, local pastries, and craft beverages.
Best for: History buffs, couples, food lovers, and cultural explorers.
Average cost: A day trip, including transport, attractions, and meals, costs around $120–$200 CAD per person, depending on activities chosen.
Cross-border day trips from Montreal
Just across the border, the following US destinations offer lakes, mountains, and small-town charm.
Tip! Read our Canada-to-US travel guide before your US trip to understand border requirements and transportation options.
Burlington, Vermont
Burlington is a scenic lakeside city on Lake Champlain, known for its colorful downtown, strong arts presence, and striking mountain and waterfront views. It combines a welcoming community feel with an energetic, creative vibe.
Climate: −8°C to −2°C during winter; 20°C to 25°C during summer.
How to get there: About 1.5–2 hours by car from Montreal; for day trips from Montreal without a car, bus services like Greyhound and Vermont Translines connect Montreal to Burlington. Seasonal train services also allow day trips from Montreal by train, offering a scenic cross-border journey.
Top activities:
- Walk or bike along the Burlington Waterfront Park and Lake Champlain Boardwalk.
- Browse boutiques, cafes, and local shops at Church Street Marketplace.
- Visit the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain.
- Enjoy craft breweries, farm-to-table dining, and local food markets.
Best for: Families, couples, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a spontaneous cross-border escape.
Average cost: A day trip, including transport, attractions, and meals, costs around $120–$200 CAD per person.
Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid is a mountain town in the Adirondacks, celebrated for its Olympic history, alpine scenery, and outdoor adventures. It’s a top winter destination, with skiing, skating, and cozy lodges, while its lakeside setting, charming streets, and surrounding trails make it equally inviting in summer.
Climate: −12°C to −3°C during winter; 18°C to 24°C during summer.
How to get there: About 2 hours by car from Montreal; buses and seasonal tour operators provide alternatives, though driving is the easiest option.
Top activities:
- Ski or snowboard at Whiteface Mountain.
- Explore the Olympic Center and historic sports sites.
- Hike trails with scenic mountain and lake views.
- Enjoy lakeside activities, local shops, and dining in the village.
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, couples, and winter sports lovers.
Average cost: A day trip, including transport, attractions, and meals, costs approximately $120–$200 CAD per person.
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is a picturesque town in northern Vermont, known for its scenic mountains, charming village center, and outdoor recreation. With a mix of alpine views, boutique shops, and local dining, it offers a relaxing escape from Montreal, perfect for exploring nature, seasonal activities, and the Vermont countryside.
Climate: −10°C to −2°C during winter; 20°C to 25°C during summer.
How to get there: About 1.5–2 hours by car from Montreal; bus services are available, but driving is the most convenient.
Top activities:
- Ski or snowboard at Stowe Mountain Resort.
- Hike trails in the surrounding Green Mountains.
- Explore the village shops, cafes, and craft breweries.
- Enjoy seasonal events and scenic drives through the countryside.
Best for: Families, couples, outdoor enthusiasts, and winter sports lovers.
Average cost: A day trip, including transport, attractions, and meals, costs approximately $120–$200 CAD per person.
What to prepare before you go?
For smooth and enjoyable day trips from Montreal, make sure you have these travel checklist essentials:
- Transport tickets or car rental: Book train, bus, or car rentals in advance. If you’re going to the US, check out Canada to the USA travel requirements.
- Attraction or tour reservations: Secure tickets for popular destinations like Parc Omega, ski resorts, wineries, or guided tours.
- ID and travel documents: Bring a valid passport for US trips, and any reservation confirmations in digital or printed form.
- Weather-appropriate clothing: Dress in layers and bring waterproof or seasonal gear.
- Snacks and water: Make sure you include light refreshments on your travel packing list, especially for longer drives or outdoor activities.
- Cash or card: While many places accept cards, small vendors or rural attractions may only take cash.
- Connectivity: Consider using a travel eSIM so you can stay connected in Canada, the US, or both.
Tip! Calculate how much data you need before choosing an eSIM, or get a Holafly plan with unlimited data to stay connected worry-free.
Stay connected on your day trips from Montreal with Holafly
Regardless of where your day trips from Montreal take you, Holafly has a plan for you. With unlimited data, flexible validity periods from 1 to 90 days, and 24/7 customer support via live chat, WhatsApp, and email, you can stay connected the entire trip without running out of data.
Choose the Holafly eSIM for the USA (starts at $4.90 CAD) for cross-border trips or the Holafly eSIM for Canada (starts at $10 CAD) for local travel.
Frequent travellers can opt for Holafly Plans, a pay-monthly global plan with coverage in over 160 destinations, unlimited data and hotspot, plus extra travel perks.
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