Quebec is a huge province so getting around can be a little tricky sometimes. When you want to visit lesser travelled towns by visitors like Rivière-du-Loup, it pays to do some research beforehand to make your trip as stress-free as possible. Here are the best travel options to get you from Quebec City to Rivière-du-Loup safely and affordably.
Take the Bus from Quebec to Bas-Saint-Laurent
Cost: $$
Time: ~2.5 to 3 hours
Frequency: x2/day
Comfort: ★★★☆☆
Taking the bus from Quebec to Rivière-du-Loup is a convenient and affordable way to travel between these two beautiful cities in Quebec. Booking and travelling are made easy since only bus company travels this route. Orléans Express has the most availability on a consistent basis. You can check their website or visit the bus station in Quebec City to see the current schedule, but I personally prefer to use Busbud, a Quebec world-renowned company to buy my tickets.
I recommend buying your ticket in advance to secure your seat and possibly get a better price. Quebec City’s bus stations are located near the downtown area, making it easily accessible to other public transportation options.
The bus ride from Quebec City to Rivière-du-Loup takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. During the journey, you will pass through scenic landscapes of the Quebec countryside. Before you leave, check the return schedule of your chosen bus to plan your trip back to Quebec City.
Hop on the Train to Rivière-du-Loup
Cost: $$$
Time: ~3.5 hours
Frequency: x1/day
Comfort: ★★★★☆
Travelling by train is a great way to experience Canada’s beauty. It’s definitely my favourite mode of transportation all over the world. From Quebec City to Rivière-du-Loup, the journey takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Quebec, from a historic city to quaint towns and stunning natural vistas.
Your journey starts at Gare du Palais in Quebec City, a beautiful and iconic train station dating back to 1915. Here, you can admire the stunning architecture and grab a snack before boarding the train. A highlight of the trip is passing by the St. Lawrence River, which provides jaw-dropping views of the water and the surrounding hills.
However, in most cases, you will have to change trains in Sainte-Foy before reaching Rivière-du-Loup. This process is usually smooth since the train station is small and the staff are very helpful.
Rent a Car to Leave Quebec City
Cost: $$$$
Time: ~2 hours
Frequency: N/A
Comfort: ★★★★★
Travelling by car offers a sense of freedom and flexibility that is unmatched by any other mode of transportation. However, that freedom can come at a price, so be sure to select an affordable rental car company for the best rate. Once you have selected the ideal car, you can pick it up and hit the road. There are a few rental car counters in town and at the Quebec City airport. I often rent with DiscoverCars.
The drive from Quebec City to Rivière-du-Loup takes a little over 2 hours, making it the perfect road trip distance. Along the way, you will be greeted with scenic views of Quebec’s charming small towns and picturesque landscapes.
As you arrive in Riviere-du-Loup, stop at the Parc des Chutes, a magnificent natural park where you can stroll along the river, hike, and enjoy a picnic. For a taste of local culture, head to one of the main restaurants in the city, or go to the Promenade de la Mer, a beautiful boardwalk that showcases the town’s history and culture.
Regarding your car rental, remember that not all companies have a drop-off location in Rivière-du-Loup. Confirm your drop-off date AND location before picking up your car so you can continue your journey hassle-free.
Order an Uber or Taxi
Cost: $$$$$
Time: ~3 hours
Frequency: N/A
Comfort: ★★★★★
Taxis are readily available in Quebec City and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. However, for a long trip like this, it’s best to pre-book a taxi by calling a local taxi company. The cost of a taxi ride from Quebec City to Riviere-du-Loup can vary depending on the time and day of the week but expect to pay around $325-$375 for a one-way trip.
This is why I don’t recommend this method of transportation when the train and bus can be so easy and flexible, but if you’re looking for a private ride for many people, then you might want to consider this. Get more info on taxis in Quebec City here.
How to Get to Quebec City
If your trip doesn’t originate in Quebec City, you will need to find a way to get there. You can get to Quebec City via the airport, train station, or bus station. Ensure you allow yourself enough layover time to connect your arrival with your Rivière-du-Loup departure.
Here are some other articles about travelling in Quebec and transportation within the province that may interest you.
- How to Get From Montreal to Quebec City
- Montreal Airport Taxi to Downtown: Everything You Need to Know
- Montreal to Mont Tremblant: Bus, Train, or Which Transportation?
Get Ready for Bas-Saint-Laurent with these Tips and Tricks
If you’re wondering what the must-sees are in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, here are some of my all time favourites and other amazing ideas you can book today to start getting ready:
- Experience a sunset sea-kayaking excursion on the St. Lawrence River
- Snore among magnificent landscapes at Domaine Floravie
- Try your hand at rock climbing near Rimouski
- Discover ice climbing in Rivière-du-Loup
- Enjoy a gourmet meal at Le Mange Grenouille or Chez Saint-Pierre
- Spend the night on the impressive Pot à l’Eau-de-vie islands
- Travel along the jaw-dropping Route des Navigateurs
- Drink alcohol made from maple at Domaine Acer in lesser-known Témiscouata
- Sleep under the stars at the Parc Côtier Kiskotuk near Rivière-du-Loup
- Visit the awe inspiring Distillerie du Saint-Laurent to taste my favourite Quebec gin
- See some of the best sunsets in the world from Vieux Loup de Mer
Preparing For Your Trip
When I look for things to do in my destination, I always have a look at Viator, GetYourGuide, Manawa, Civitatis and sometimes even Expedia.
It’s first off a great way to find out what there is to do, but always a quick and easy method to book cheaply and efficiently with these renowned platforms.
Need a place to sleep? I find most of my accommodations on Booking.com, but I also use Hotels.com for their rewards program (11th free night) as well as Expedia. When booking smaller places in Quebec, you might not find them here and you’llneed to contact them directly to book.
Looking for a cheap flight to the Bas-Saint-Laurent through Montreal or Quebec City? Have a look on Cheapoair or Skyscanner I use regularly.
Once you’re there, rent a car to roam free with DiscoverCars, AutoEurope or RentalCars or hop on a bus around Gatineau, Montreal, Quebec, and surrounding cities with Busbud.
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