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Quebecois Holiday with Carnival

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There’s nothing more quintessentially Canadian than experiencing an outdoor festival in winter. Spend a week immersing yourself in the beauty and excitement of a Canadian winter on this celebratory tour through Montreal and Quebec City.

7 days From $1,630 per person
Travel on your own following a well-planned itinerary

2023 Tour code: CC-QHCR-23

About the tour

During the coldest months of the year, Canada turns into a playground of sorts. Winter sports reign supreme and there are plenty of festivals, activities and attractions to keep visitors and locals entertained. Blanketed under the snow, Canada's cities gain a fresh look, one that makes the sites look ever-so different than during the warmer months. Luckily for you, you will get to experience all of these elements that make winter in Canada so special on this week-long journey through Montreal and Quebec City. Begin in Montreal with guided and independent sightseeing before traveling by train to Quebec City. In this French-inspired city, beauty comes to life, as the pristine snow blankets the centuries-old buildings. Spend time exploring the city on your own, as well as visiting one of the most spectacular attractions in Quebec, the Hotel de Glace. Your holiday is highlighted by Quebec City's famous Carnaval de Quebec. An Ice Palace, canoe racing, and snow sculptures add to the enchanting atmosphere, creating an experience not to be forgotten. With private transfers, comfortable rail transportation, luxury hotel accommodations, and exciting adventures, this grand tour offers all the best of two of Canada's finest cities.

Highlights

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What’s included

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive Montreal

Arrive at Montreal's international airport today, and meet your driver for a private transfer to your downtown hotel. Your next two nights will be spent at the spectacular Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, which is located within close proximity to all of the food, culture, and adventures one could desire while staying in Montreal. The remainder of the day is free to begin your explorations of the city. Overnight Montreal.

Day 2 - Montreal Sightseeing

The day is yours to see Montreal as you wish, the options are truly endless. Stroll the cobblestone streets and many shops of Old Montreal, spend a relaxing day at a Nordic spa, or taste your way through the city by exploring Montreal's vibrant dining scene. For those looking for an outdoor adventure, perhaps visit one of the many ice rinks throughout the city for a day of skating or check out the seasonal festivities at the Place Jacques-Cartier in Old Montreal. An optional sightseeing tour is available on select days. Overnight Montreal.

Day 3 - VIA Rail to Quebec City

Enjoy views of the frozen landscape as you move by train between Montreal and Quebec City. This journey is just under 4 hours in length, leaving ample time to get acquainted with the city upon arrival. As the train pulls into the Quebec City station, transfer on your own to the castle-like Fairmont Le Château Frontenac - a destination in and of itself and your hotel for the next 3 nights. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight Quebec City.

Day 4 - Hotel de Glace

Today, tour one of the most unique structures in North America, one that changes each year and can only be seen during the winter in Quebec, the Hotel de Glace. Constructed entirely of ice and snow, this hotel features intricately carved sculptures and decorations, themed guest rooms, a stunning chapel and two impressive ice bars. During your tour, a guide escorts you through the many rooms of this remarkable structure until you reach the bar, at which point you can enjoy a cocktail in a carved ice glass. Return to Quebec City, and spend the rest of the day enjoying the sites independently. Overnight Quebec City.

Day 5 - Carnival de Quebec

The magic of Quebec City is on full display as you continue your explorations independently. You have the entire day to witness all the Carnival has to offer. Experience the magnificent snow sculptures, snow baths, and the Ice Palace; ride the toboggan slides, take in a show, and don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for the Carnival's famous mascot, Bonhomme. Optional activities* include VIP tickets to the Canoe Race and Night Parade. Overnight Quebec City.

*Optional Activities: Canoe Race takes place on February 10th, from 11:30am to 3pm; the Night Parade takes place on February 9th and 16th from 7pm to 9pm.

Day 6 - VIA Rail to Montreal

Make your way to Quebec City's train station to board your VIA Rail train bound for Montreal. Take a moment to appreciate the vistas as the architecture of Quebec City fades into the distance and the snowy countryside comes into view. As the train pulls in to Montreal's rail station, transfer back to the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the diverse atmosphere that surrounds the city or enjoying the spa amenities of your hotel. Overnight Montreal.

Day 7 - Montreal

Enjoy a private transfer to Montreal's international airport this morning, where your wintertime adventure comes to a close. 

Additional information

Please note

Taxes are not included on rail portions and are subject to change.

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Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

Hotels

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, Montreal

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, Montreal

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Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Quebec City

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Quebec City

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