Adventure Beyond Québec: Canada-Wide Escapes from Montréal 🌎
Montréal is a fantastic hub—but sometimes you crave a getaway that takes you beyond provincial borders. Whether you're after rugged coastlines, mountain vistas, historic towns, or seaside charm, Canada offers some unforgettable day-trip destinations within roughly a two-hour radius of the city.
This guide gathers the top 10 out-of-province escapes—perfect for soaking in new landscapes, sampling regional flavours, and discovering a fresh side of Canadian life. Each spot is easy to reach, brimming with character, and ideal for newcomers, families, or seasoned residents craving a mini-adventure.
Think of this as your passport to a quick taste of Canada beyond Québec—whether you’re catching a ferry to New Brunswick, hiking the Gatineau Hills across the river, or exploring charming Ontario towns. Just grab a map, hit the road (and possibly cross a border or two), and let Canada surprise you with its diversity.
Know a hidden gem just a couple hours from Montréal that isn’t on our list? We'd love to feature it—contact us to let us know!
Ottawa, Ontario
~45 minutes
Why visit: Canada’s capital, rich in national museums (Canadian Museum of History, National Gallery), iconic Parliament Hill, scenic Rideau Canal, and festivals like Winterlude and Canada Day celebrations.
Best for: History buffs, families, culture lovers, and those seeking a city-trip under 1 hour away.
Québec City, Québec
~50–55 minutes
Why visit: A UNESCO-listed gem—feel transported to Europe in Old Québec, explore the majestic Château Frontenac and fortifications, savour traditional fare (poutine, tourtière), and enjoy year-round festivals (Winter Carnival, Summer Festival)
Best for: Romance, history enthusiasts, families, and Francophiles.
Toronto, Ontario
~1 hour 20 minutes
Why visit: Canada’s largest city has a dynamic skyline (CN Tower), world-class museums (Royal Ontario Museum), and a vibrant multicultural scene with neighbourhoods like Kensington Market and Distillery District.
Best for: Urban adventurers, foodies, arts & nightlife fans.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
~2 hours
Why visit: Atlantic charm with historic waterfront, seafood dining, Peggy’s Cove lighthouse, and a gateway to scenic maritime drives and coastal adventures.
Best for: Sea lovers, history/scenic trip seekers, and those craving fresh seafood.
Fredericton / Saint John, New Brunswick
~1.5 hours
Why visit: Rich in Loyalist heritage, charming small-city ambiance, breathtaking natural wonders like the Bay of Fundy’s Hopewell Rocks, and vibrant arts scenes.
Best for: Families, couples, and those yearning for nature and cultural immersion.
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
~2 hours
Why visit: Birthplace of Confederation, quaint Victorian architecture, Anne of Green Gables sites, and Kingston’s charms and seafood galore.
Best for: Literature lovers, beachgoers, families, and those wanting a peaceful getaway
Halifax for Whales
~2 hours
Why visit: More than just the city—take day trips to whale watch, kayak coastal coves, enjoy coastal seafood culture, and explore provincial parks.
Best for: Adventure fans, nature lovers, families.
Charlottetown to Cavendish (PEI)
~3 hours
Why visit: Red sandstone cliffs and dramatic arch of PEI National Park, green rolling fields, Anne-themed attractions, national parks and cycling trails.
Best for: Outdoor families, photographers, history buffs.
Moncton / Shediac, New Brunswick
~1.5 hours
Why visit: Famous for tidal bore rafting on the Petitcodiac, sandy beaches in Shediac, plus rich Acadian heritage and festivals.
Best for: Families, thrill-seekers, and foodies.
St. John’s, Newfoundland
~3 hours
Why visit: Edge-of-Atlantic vibes with colorful row houses, historic Signal Hill, puffin and iceberg viewing, and robust Irish music tradition.
Best for: Adventure travelers, history lovers, and photographers.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
~2.5 hours
Why visit: A cultural heart with The Forks' meeting place, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, prairies and Plains Indigenous heritage, and festivals like Folklorama.
Best for: Culture seekers, multimedia visitors, and prairie explorers.
Calgary, Alberta
~4 hours
Why visit: Combine Stampede city life with day trips to Banff, Lake Louise, and the majestic Rockies—skiing, hiking, breathtaking nature.
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, adventure travelers, and nature lovers