Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

14-Day Family Nature and Whale Watching Itinerary in Quebec Jan 29 to Feb 11 2026

Viewed by 60 travelers
Day 1 · Thu, Jan 29
Montreal

Arrival and Old Montreal Exploration

Morning:

Your family's journey began with a morning flight arriving at Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, where you navigated through customs and collected your gear for the winter adventure. From there, you headed into the city to drop your bags at a charming hotel situated right in the heart of historic Old Montreal.

Afternoon:

After settling in, wander through the historic cobblestone streets to witness the stunning interior of the [Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal](https://www.google.com/search?q=Notre-Dame+Basilica+of+Montreal+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site), famous for its sapphire-blue ceilings and intricate woodcarvings. Afterward, the family can head to the Old Port of Montreal to board [La Grande Roue de Montréal](https://www.google.com/search?q=La+Grande+Roue+de+Montr%C3%A9al+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site), where heated gondolas offer a panoramic view of the frozen Saint Lawrence River as the winter sun begins to set.

Evening:

As the winter night sets in, enjoy a hearty dinner at Modavie, where live jazz provides a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere for the whole family to relax. Afterward, take a short walk to see the history of the city come to life through the poetic light projections of Cité Mémoire, which illuminate the stone walls of buildings near Place Jacques-Cartier.

Day 2 · Fri, Jan 30
Montreal

Science Center and Mount Royal Parks

Morning:

Start your second morning at the [Montreal Science Centre](https://www.google.com/search?q=Montreal+Science+Centre+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site), where your teenagers can dive into interactive tech exhibits and hands-on experiments like the Fabrik creativity factory. Afterward, catch a breathtaking documentary in the state-of-the-art [IMAX® TELUS theatre](https://www.google.com/search?q=IMAX%C2%AE+TELUS+theatre+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site) for an immersive cinematic experience that explores the wonders of the natural world. Before leaving the waterfront, take a brisk stroll past the historic Clock Tower Pier to admire the frozen vista of the Saint Lawrence.

Afternoon:

After your morning of discovery, head to the city's snowy peak at Mount Royal Park for a high-energy afternoon of classic winter play. At the picturesque Beaver Lake, the teenagers can speed down the groomed lanes for snow tubing or glide across the refrigerated outdoor skating rink. Conclude the session with a stroll to the Kondiaronk Belvedere to capture the perfect family photo against the backdrop of the city skyline from the wide terrace of the Mount Royal Chalet.

Evening:

Warm up from the winter chill by heading to the vibrant Quartier des Spectacles, where the family can interact with the playful, glowing art installations of [Luminothérapie](https://www.google.com/search?q=Luminoth%C3%A9rapie+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site). Afterward, satisfy everyone's appetite at the [Time Out Market Montréal](https://www.timeoutmarket.com/montreal/en/), where local chefs serve a wide variety of high-quality dishes in a sleek, modern food hall. Conclude your evening with a stroll down the neon-lit Sainte-Catherine Street to soak in the lively urban energy of downtown Montreal.

Day 3 · Sat, Jan 31
Montebello

Wildlife Safari at Parc Omega

Morning:

After leaving the city lights of Montreal behind, your morning begins with a scenic drive westward to the village of Montebello to enter the gates of the vast [Parc Omega](https://www.google.com/search?q=Parc+Omega+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site). From the comfort of your car, you will navigate the 12-kilometer safari trail through frozen meadows and forests, encountering majestic elk, bison, and timber wolves roaming in their natural winter habitat. Be sure to have your bags of carrots ready, as friendly white-tailed deer frequently approach the vehicle windows for a close-up snack.

Afternoon:

After your driving tour, head to the Land of the Pioneers to stretch your legs and explore the historic Old Farm, where you can witness heritage farm life in a festive winter setting. From there, take a walk along the First Nations Trail to admire the hand-carved totem poles representing the 11 indigenous nations of Quebec, perhaps pausing at the Trading Post to enjoy a local maple treat by the fire.

Evening:

Wrap up your wilderness adventure by retreating to the Fairmont Le Château Montebello, where you can relax by the massive six-sided stone fireplace in the world's largest log castle. After a delicious meal at Aux Chantignoles, the family can enjoy a moonlit stroll through the snow-covered grounds or a swim in the resort's historic indoor Olympic-sized pool.

Day 4 · Sun, Feb 1
Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc

Scenic Drive to Mauricie National Park

Morning:

After a final hearty breakfast at the Fairmont Le Château Montebello, your family will begin the scenic journey northeast toward the wilderness of the Mauricie region. Along the way, you'll join the historic Chemin du Roy, stop in the city of Trois-Rivières to browse the local shops, and visit the Boréalis museum to learn about the area's rich logging history through interactive displays.

Afternoon:

Continue your journey into the heart of the Laurentian Mountains as you enter La Mauricie National Park, a pristine winter wonderland of frozen lakes and snow-draped forests. Your family can head to the Rivière à la Pêche recreation area to strap on snowshoes and explore the quiet trails, or take a short hike to witness the spectacular ice curtains at Shewenegan Falls. For an extra thrill, try a session of fat biking on the park's specialized groomed paths, offering a unique way to navigate the rolling terrain together.

Evening:

As moonlight illuminates the snow, retreat to the rustic Auberge du Trappeur to enjoy a traditional meal featuring local game and mountain flavors. End your night with a soothing soak in a steaming outdoor Nordic spa or gather around a crackling wood fire at the [Mokotakan Interpretive Site](https://www.google.com/search?q=Mokotakan+Interpretive+Site+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site) to hear legends of the forest under a canopy of stars.

Day 5 · Mon, Feb 2
Mauricie National Park

Canoeing and Lake Exploration in Mauricie

Morning:

After a hearty breakfast, your family will head to the frozen expanses of Lake Wapizagonke to admire the dramatic Sandstone Cliffs from a unique winter perspective. Instead of traditional canoes, you'll utilize kick-sleds to glide across the mirror-like ice and explore the quiet inlets before hiking the Wapi Trail to see the frost-covered Boreal Forest.

Afternoon:

Following your morning on the frozen lake, drive to the Le Passage Lookout to capture breathtaking aerial photos of the winding valleys and snow-dusted ridges of the Laurentian Mountains. Afterward, strap on your snowshoes for a trek along the Cascatelle Trail, where the kids can marvel at the massive pillars of blue ice formed by frozen waterfalls before trying a session of traditional ice fishing at Lake Edward.

Evening:

Wind down with a farm-to-table meal at Le 2800 du Parc, a cozy bistro located right on the banks of the Rivière Saint-Maurice that offers a warm atmosphere perfect for growing teenagers. As night falls, the family can join a guided night snowshoe excursion under the stars to learn about the nocturnal adaptations of local wildlife like the Great Horned Owl before returning to your lodge for some board games by the fire.

Day 6 · Tue, Feb 3
Mauricie Region

Wilderness Adventures and Black Bear Observation

Morning:

Begin your morning with an exhilarating dog sledding excursion through the hidden valley trails of Expédition de la Mauricie, where the whole family can learn the art of mushing with a team of huskies. Afterward, join a local naturalist for an interpretive wildlife walk near Hôtel Sacacomie to discover how the region's American Black Bears and other native species survive the deep winter within their hidden dens.

Afternoon:

Following your morning of exploration, head to Pourvoirie du Lac Blanc for a high-octane family snowmobile safari led by a professional guide through the rolling white hills of the Mauricie backcountry. After the ride, visit their rustic onsite Sugar Shack to witness the traditional harvesting of sap and indulge in a sweet tasting of maple taffy on snow.

Evening:

End your day of forest adventures with a hearty dinner at Microbrasserie Nouvelle-France in Saint-Alexis-des-Monts, where the family can enjoy local cuisine in a warm, timber-framed setting. Afterward, head back to Auberge Lac-à-l'Eau-Claire for a peaceful evening of stargazing over the frozen lake, taking advantage of the region's lack of light pollution to spot winter constellations.

Day 7 · Wed, Feb 4
Saguenay

Drive to the Saguenay Fjord

Morning:

Your family will bid farewell to the Mauricie region and head north along the scenic Route 155, widely regarded as one of Quebec's most beautiful drives as it winds through the snow-capped mountains of the Boreal Forest. Along the way, stop at the Parc des Chutes-de-la-Petite-Rivière-Bostonnais in La Tuque to climb the 65-foot observation tower for a panoramic view of the frozen valley and visit the interactive nature interpretation center.

Afternoon:

Upon reaching the shores of the fjord, your family can witness the unique winter culture at the Ice Fishing Village of La Baie, where a sprawling grid of colorful cabins sits directly on the thick ice of the Saguenay River. Afterwards, head into the heart of the city to explore the [Musée de la Pulperie de Chicoutimi](https://www.google.com/search?q=Mus%C3%A9e+de+la+Pulperie+de+Chicoutimi+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site), an old pulp mill turned regional museum that houses the whimsical, mural-covered Arthur Villeneuve House.

Evening:

Warm up with a family dinner at Le Baumier, where you can sample modern boreal-inspired dishes that highlight the unique flavors of the northern wilderness. After your meal, take a crisp nighttime stroll through the illuminated Place du Citoyen before treating the kids to a decadent chocolate-dipped cone at the iconic Chocolats Favoris.

Day 8 · Thu, Feb 5
Saint-Fulgence

Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux High Ropes

Morning:

After a short drive along the northern shore of the waterway to Saint-Fulgence, your morning begins with an adrenaline-filled challenge at Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux. Your teenagers can test their balance on the Fjord-en-Forêt aerial ropes course, navigating suspended bridges and zip lines that offer dizzying views of the massive ice-covered Saguenay Fjord below.

Afternoon:

After descending from the treetops, drive to the picturesque village of Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, often called the pearl of the fjord, to explore its charming snowy streets and visit the unique Musée de la Nature. Afterward, embark on a short snowshoe trek along the Sentier de la Plate-Forme to witness the dramatic, ice-streaked cliffs of the Saguenay Fjord from one of the region's most iconic lookout points.

Evening:

For dinner, head to the bustling Rue Racine in Chicoutimi to enjoy a meal at Inter-Section, a family-friendly restaurant famous for its local poutines and gourmet burgers. Following your meal, bundle up for a scenic walk through the Zone Portuaire de Chicoutimi, where you can admire the city lights reflecting off the ice and see the historic Little White House standing resiliently against the winter elements.

Day 9 · Fri, Feb 6
Tadoussac

Whale Watching on the St. Lawrence

Morning:

Your morning begins with a scenic journey to the Tadoussac-Baie-Sainte-Catherine Ferry, where the family can stand on deck to spot the ivory-colored Belugas that stay in the estuary even in winter. Once ashore, explore the world-class exhibits at the [Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre (CIMM)](https://gremm.org/en/cimm/) before taking a brisk coastal walk along the Pointe-de-l'Islet Trail to look for seals and whales from the granite shoreline.

Afternoon:

After a local lunch, challenge the family to a hike up the Sentier de la Coupe for a staggering panoramic view of the frozen village and the icy waters of the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park. Following your descent, step back in time at the [Chauvin Trading Post](https://www.shrt.qc.ca/en/the-chauvin-trading-post/) to explore the history of the fur trade and the region's first interactions between French explorers and the Innu nation.

Evening:

Enjoy a cozy family dinner at the iconic Hôtel Tadoussac, where you can dine in a grand historic setting overlooking the moonlit waters of Tadoussac Bay. Afterward, take a quiet evening walk to see the beautifully illuminated Tadoussac Chapel, the oldest wooden church in North America, before warming up with a local treat at the family-friendly Microbrasserie Tadoussac.

Day 10 · Sat, Feb 7
Tadoussac

Sand Dunes and Marine Discovery Centers

Morning:

Start your morning at the Tadoussac Sand Dunes within Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay, where the teenagers can experience the thrill of 'sand-sledding' down the massive, snow-draped slopes overlooking the water. Then, drive north to the Marine Discovery Center in Les Escoumins to interact with researchers and witness the incredible biodiversity found beneath the icy surface of the St. Lawrence Estuary through immersive high-definition underwater cameras.

Afternoon:

Continue your coastal exploration at the Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre, where you can sit on the massive granite ledges to scan the deep waters for the spouts of minke whales and curious seals. Afterward, head to the Baie-Sainte-Marguerite sector of Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay for a snowshoe hike to the Le Béluga Lookout, a prime vantage point to spot the resident white whale pod appearing as tiny ivory specks against the dark blue water.

Evening:

Warm up after the coastal winds with a family dinner at La Galouïne Auberge et Restaurant, known for its cozy atmosphere and house-smoked local specialties. Afterward, head to the shoreline for a crisp evening walk along the Tadoussac Promenade, where you can watch the tide-churned ice floes gather near the Tadoussac Marina under a brilliant canopy of winter stars.

Day 11 · Sun, Feb 8
Quebec City

Charlevoix Coast and Montmorency Falls

Morning:

Your morning begins with a breathtaking drive along the St. Lawrence Route (Route 362), winding through the dramatic mountain-and-sea landscapes of the Charlevoix Biosphere Reserve. Your family will stop in the artistic village of Baie-Saint-Paul to explore the local boutiques and galleries lining Rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste before picking up artisanal snacks for the road.

Afternoon:

As you approach the city, witness the power of winter at Montmorency Falls Park, where the frozen cascades tower 30 meters higher than Niagara and create a massive 'sugar loaf' of ice at the base. The teenagers can challenge their fear of heights by walking across the Suspension Bridge over the roaring falls before you take a short detour to see the ornate mosaics and soaring spires of the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré.

Evening:

As you arrive in the city, head to the historic Dufferin Terrace for a high-speed thrill on the iconic Au 1884 toboggan slide, where you can race down the ice right next to the majestic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Afterward, warm up with a cozy family dinner in the cobblestone heart of Quartier Petit-Champlain at Le Lapin Sauté, surrounded by the magical glow of thousands of twinkling winter lights.

Day 12 · Mon, Feb 9
Quebec City

Old Quebec Historic Citadel and Funicular

Morning:

Start your morning within the star-shaped walls of the Citadelle of Quebec, where a guided tour reveals the history of North America's largest British-built fortress and the interactive treasures of the Royal 22e Régiment Museum. Afterward, enjoy a scenic descent from the Upper Town to the snowy Lower Town via the historic [Old Quebec Funicular](https://www.google.com/search?q=Old+Quebec+Funicular+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site), which offers your teenagers a unique perspective of the icy river as you glide down to the cobblestones of Place Royale to see the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church.

Afternoon:

After a lunch of local flavors, immerse yourselves in the interactive exhibits at the [Musée de la civilisation](https://www.google.com/search?q=Mus%C3%A9e+de+la+civilisation+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site), which offers engaging galleries specifically designed for curious teenagers and families. Continue your historical journey by walking atop the Ramparts of Quebec City, the only remaining fortified city walls north of Mexico, before reaching the broad snowy expanses of the Plains of Abraham to admire the seasonal Ice Sculptures and watch cross-country skiers glide past the historic Martello towers.

Evening:

Conclude your historic day by lacing up your skates at the Place d'Youville outdoor rink, where you can glide under the stars next to the beautifully lit Porte Saint-Jean gate. Afterward, treat the family to a modern dinner at Le Chic Shack, known for its gourmet poutines and burgers, before taking a final evening walk along the vibrant Rue Saint-Jean. Spend your final moments of the evening browsing the eclectic shops within the trendy Saint-Jean District to soak up the local city atmosphere.

Day 13 · Tue, Feb 10
Quebec City

Village Vacances Valcartier or Wendake Heritage

Morning:

Your morning begins with a short drive to the Huron-Wendat Nation in Wendake, where the family can participate in an immersive guided tour of the [Onhoüa Chetek8e Traditional Huron Site](https://www.google.com/search?q=Onho%C3%BCa+Chetek8e+Traditional+Huron+Site+Plan+a+Perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+Whale+watching%2C+Nature%2C+for+a+family+with+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+official+site) to explore traditional longhouses and ancestral survival skills. After the tour, enjoy a scenic walk along the snowy banks of the Akiawenrahk' River to witness the spectacular frozen landscape of Kabir Kouba Falls and visit the historic Notre-Dame-de-Lorette Church.

Afternoon:

Transition from cultural heritage to high-energy thrills at Village Vacances Valcartier, where your family can race down the steep, icy runs of the Himalaya high-speed snow tubing area. Afterward, step into a frozen fairy tale at the Hôtel de Glace to marvel at the intricate ice sculptures and shimmering chandeliers within North America's only hotel made entirely of snow and ice.

Evening:

For your final evening in the region, enjoy a prestigious boreal-inspired dinner at Restaurant La Traite, where the menu features local game and berries paired with indigenous hospitality. Afterwards, immerse yourselves in the magical [Onhwa' Lumina](https://onhwalumina.ca/en/) enchanted night walk, a multimedia experience that uses light, sound, and video projections to share the ancestral knowledge of the Huron-Wendat people under the winter stars.

Day 14 · Wed, Feb 11
Montreal

Final Souvenirs and Montreal Departure

Morning:

After your final breakfast in Quebec City, enjoy a scenic drive back into Montreal for a visit to the vibrant Jean-Talon Market, where you can browse stalls of local Quebecois delicacies and pick up gourmet souvenirs. Before heading toward the airport, treat the teenagers to a stop at the iconic [St-Viateur Bagel](https://www.stviateurbagel.com/) in the Mile End district to witness the traditional wood-fired baking process and grab a bag of warm, hand-rolled bagels for the journey home.

Afternoon:

Spend your final afternoon exploring the vast climate-controlled network of the Underground City (RÉSO), where the kids can browse the trendy boutiques of the Montreal Eaton Centre for last-minute gifts. Afterward, take a moment to admire the striking public art installations and architecture at Place des Festivals before making your final transit to Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport for your evening departure.

Evening:

While waiting for your flight at Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, grab a final savory meal at Pork & Pickle to sustain the family for the journey home. As your plane ascends, look out the window for a stunning night view of the illuminated Jacques Cartier Bridge and the city lights as you bid a final farewell to the magical winter landscapes of Quebec.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version