If it’s your first time in Quebec Province, you probably want to see as much as possible. From Montreal’s old port to Quebec City’s Chateau Frontenac, people enjoy visiting these two important Canadian cities. But how do you get from one place to another? What is train travel from Montreal to Quebec City like? Let me give you a few tips about this means of transportation to help you save time and money.
Things to Know Before Booking Your Train Tickets to Quebec City from Montreal
First off, is it possible to travel from Montreal to Quebec City by train? The answer is yes! VIA Rail, Canada’s official rail service, provides a Montreal-Quebec City train journey (bookable through Busbud) many times daily.
Schedule and Frequency of Trains
More than one train makes the Montreal-Quebec City journey every day. Indeed, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., 5 trains connect those two important cities. A train trip lasts approximately 3 hours and a half, depending on where you decide to arrive.
Note though that freight trains have priority here on railways so there are sometimes delays as you wait for them to pass.
Price of Rail Travel Between Montreal and Quebec City
Prices may vary significantly according to demand and time of day, but a Montreal-Quebec City train journey in economy class can cost as low as $43 per person. Here is a tip: VIA Rail often has discounts on Tuesday. Therefore, it could be wise to subscribe to their newsletter.
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Train Stations
Be careful when booking your Montreal-Quebec City train journey because there’s more than one station to arrive at. If you travel from Montreal, you will likely take your train at the Gare Centrale (Bonaventure metro station).
If you are on the south shore, there is no need to go to Montreal to get your train; there is a station in Saint-Lambert, too.
Regarding Quebec City, there are two main train stations: Gare du Palais and Gare de Sainte-Foy. If you want to arrive directly near Quebec City’s historic district, choose the Gare du Palais as your final destination. It arrives in the lower part of town, and you can walk up or use public transportation. If you wish to remain closer to the residential parts of the city, choose the Gare de Sainte-Foy.
What Are the Benefits of Travelling by Train to Quebec City?
Is it worth it to travel by train to Quebec City when you can rent a car and drive, you may be asking yourself? Let me give you a few benefits to help you make the right choice according to your needs.
It Allows You to Get From One Downtown to Another
In my opinion, the best advantage of travelling from Montreal to Quebec City by train is that it allows you to move from one downtown to another easily. When choosing to arrive at the Gare du Palais, you will be within walking distance of the main attractions, such as the Chateau Frontenac and the Quartier Petit-Champlain.
It’s a Comfortable Way to Train travel from Montreal to Quebec City
In addition, it’s often more comfortable to travel by train than by bus or car. You have access to nice seats and enough space to feel at ease, even if you don’t know the passenger next to you. There are also toilets, and you can order food if you’re hungry (but don’t be surprised if it is more expensive). Bring your snacks if possible and compare prices on Busbud.
You Can Work on the Train
Another important benefit of travelling by train is that you can work during that time. Indeed, VIA Rail’s trains provide a free Wi-Fi connection (although not at the highest speed) during the journey. You can then take this precious time to work or read. Many workers and professionals often take the Montreal-Quebec City train journey for business.
Relax and Enjoy the Scenery
Finally, driving in another country can be stressful, especially when the laws are different, and everything is written in another language. Therefore, it could be relevant to consider travelling by train when possible. Just take your seat and enjoy the view without all the hassle of GPSing your way around.
In conclusion, you should think about travelling from Montreal to Quebec City by train if you wish to visit these two towns. Besides bringing you from one downtown to another, you have many schedule options and the opportunity to relax and work if needed.
Did you know you can also travel to Quebec City from Ottawa by train? The journey might be a bit longer, but it is something to consider if you want to visit these two important Canadian cities.
Are you looking for other tips about travelling to the Quebec Province after train travel from Montreal to Quebec City? These articles might interest you:
- Quebec City to Rivière-du-Loup: How to Get There
- Quebec Road Conditions: Everything You Need to Know to Drive Here
- Best Quebec Road Trips
What to Do in Quebec City region and How to Organize Your Trip
Curious about how to spend your day in the Quebec City region? Here’s a list of the top activities to consider adding to your plans:
- Admire Quebec City’s largest waterfall and take a cable car to the top of the Montmorency Falls.
- Experience a unique walking adventure in the heart of Old Quebec and learn about its history.
- Discover the food, beverages, and vineyards of Île d’Orléans.
- Explore the wilderness near Quebec City with a hike in the Jacques-Cartier National Park.
- Introduce yourself to speed skating in Quebec City with top athletes on an inside ice ring.
- Ziplining above the Sainte-Anne canyon near Quebec City.
- Sleep comfortably at the Fairmont Château Frontenac and enjoy an incredible view of the St. Lawrence River.
- Enjoy a peaceful room at the Hilton Quebec and take a dip in the only year-round heated outdoor pool in Quebec City.
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 need to contact them directly.
Looking for a cheap flight to the Outaouais through Montreal? 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.
Do you want to have ideas and suggestions regarding visiting Quebec? Take a look at our other pins!
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