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14 Day Quebec Family Itinerary July 2026 Montreal Quebec City and Whale Watching

Viewed by 104 travelers
Day 1 · Wed, Jul 1
Montreal

Arrival and Canada Day Celebrations in Montreal

Morning:

Kick off your family adventure by arriving at Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport and heading to the heart of the city to drop your bags. Begin your exploration at the historic Place d'Armes, where you can admire the stunning architecture before finding a prime spot to witness the high-energy Canada Day Parade as it officially kicks off the national celebrations downtown.

Afternoon:

Continue the celebration at the [Old Port of Montreal](https://www.oldportofmontreal.com/), where the family can enjoy live musical performances, interactive workshops, and giant inflatable games along the waterfront. Make sure to catch the spectacular aerial demonstrations and the traditional 21-gun salute near the Clock Tower Pier for an immersive festive experience.

Evening:

As dusk falls, head to the [Quartier des Spectacles](https://www.quartierdesspectacles.com/) to enjoy the vibrant outdoor concerts and interactive light displays at Place des Festivals. Finally, find a spot near the Bonsecours Basin to witness the grand fireworks finale as it illuminates the Saint Lawrence River in honor of Canada Day.

Day 2 · Thu, Jul 2
Montreal

Old Montreal Exploration and Science Centre

Morning:

Begin your morning with a delicious breakfast at the famous Olive et Gourmando on the historic Rue Saint-Paul West, soaking in the charming atmosphere of the city's oldest street. After fueling up, enjoy a guided tour of the breathtaking [Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal](https://www.basiliquenotredame.ca/) to admire its vibrant blue interior and intricate gothic architecture before strolling through the lively Place Jacques-Cartier to watch local street performers.

Afternoon:

Make your way to the [Montreal Science Centre](https://www.montrealsciencecentre.com/) at King Edward Pier, where the kids can dive into high-tech interactive exhibits like the Fabrik creativity lab or catch a film at the [IMAX TELUS theatre](https://www.google.com/search?q=IMAX+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+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site). Afterward, take a short stroll to the Grand Quay to climb the futuristic [Port of Montreal Tower](https://www.google.com/search?q=Port+of+Montreal+Tower+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site) for stunning 360-degree views of the city skyline and the Saint Lawrence River.

Evening:

Cap off the day with an outdoor dinner at Le Jardin Nelson, where the family can enjoy live jazz and savory crepes in a historic, flower-filled courtyard. Afterward, take a ride on [La Grande Roue de Montréal](https://www.lagranderouedemontreal.com/) to see the city lights from 60 meters above before wandering the cobblestone alleys to discover the mesmerizing [Cité Mémoire](https://www.google.com/search?q=Cit%C3%A9+M%C3%A9moire+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site) light projections on the old stone walls.

Day 3 · Fri, Jul 3
Montreal

Mount Royal Park and Plateau Neighborhood

Morning:

Begin your day with an invigorating hike up the wooded paths of [Mount Royal Park](https://www.lemontroyal.qc.ca/en), reaching the summit to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline from the Kondiaronk Belvedere. Step inside the historic Mount Royal Chalet to admire its grand architecture and narrative paintings before heading toward the serene Beaver Lake for a peaceful stroll along the water's edge.

Afternoon:

Descend the mountain into the artistic Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood to explore the iconic outdoor spiral staircases and vibrant murals along Boulevard Saint-Laurent. Grab a legendary smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz's Deli for an authentic local lunch before wandering through the charming Square Saint-Louis to admire its colorful Victorian architecture and fountain.

Evening:

For dinner, treat the family to a classic Montreal feast at La Banquise, famous for its wide variety of creative poutines that are sure to be a hit with the kids. Afterward, grab a colorful artisanal treat from Kem CoBa and take a relaxing evening stroll through Parc La Fontaine to enjoy the illuminated fountains and the lively local atmosphere by the lagoon.

Day 4 · Sat, Jul 4
Montreal

La Ronde Amusement Park and Jean-Drapeau

Morning:

Start your morning with a scenic ride on the [Montreal-Longueuil Ferry](https://www.navettesfluviales.com/) from the Old Port, enjoying the river breeze as you approach Parc Jean-Drapeau on Sainte-Hélène Island. Upon arrival, snap a quick family photo in front of the iconic geodesic dome of the Biosphere before heading to the gates of La Ronde to beat the crowds for the park's opening thrills.

Afternoon:

Heighten the excitement by tackling signature coasters like the legendary wooden Le Monstre and the gravity-defying Goliath, which are sure to satisfy the teens' craving for adrenaline. Afterward, cool down and escape the crowds by visiting the nearby [Jean-Doré Beach](https://www.google.com/search?q=Jean-Dor%C3%A9+Beach+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site) on Notre-Dame Island for a refreshing swim in the filtered lake water.

Evening:

Wrap up your day of thrills by navigating the winding paths of the [SOS Labyrinthe](https://soslabyrinthe.com/), a massive indoor maze that provides a spirited challenge for the whole family. For dinner, enjoy a casual meal at the vibrant Muvbox shipping container eateries before taking a serene twilight walk along the Quai de l'Horloge to watch the city lights mirror across the water.

Day 5 · Sun, Jul 5
Quebec City

Travel to Quebec City and Evening Walk

Morning:

Say goodbye to Montreal by picking up a fresh dozen of world-famous sesame bagels from [St-Viateur Bagel](https://www.stviateurbagel.com/) to enjoy as a snack for the road. Board a comfortable VIA Rail train at Central Station, where the family can relax and enjoy the scenic rural landscapes of the St. Lawrence River Valley as you glide toward the historic, chateau-style Gare du Palais in Quebec City.

Afternoon:

After checking into your accommodation near the historic heart of the city, take a ride on the glass-walled [Old Quebec Funicular](https://www.funiculaire.ca/) to ascend quickly to the level of Upper Town. Once at the top, enjoy a breezy stroll along the Dufferin Terrace, where you can admire the iconic turrets of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and take in breathtaking vistas of the Saint Lawrence River.

Evening:

As daylight fades, descend into the fairy-tale streets of the Quartier Petit-Champlain to browse artisan boutiques and soak in the magical atmosphere of one of North America's oldest commercial districts. Enjoy a warm family dinner at Bistro Sous-le-Fort before snapping photos at Place Royale, where the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and the massive Fresque des Québécois mural are brilliantly lit for the night.

Day 6 · Mon, Jul 6
Quebec City

Historic Districts and Citadel Tour

Morning:

Begin your morning with a fresh pastry and café au lait at the lively [Paillard](https://www.paillard.ca/) on Rue Saint-Jean before heading to the Fortifications of Québec National Historic Site for a walk along the city's ancient stone walls. Arrive at La Citadelle de Québec by 10:00 AM to witness the impressive Changing of the Guard ceremony, featuring the Royal 22e Régiment's iconic red tunics and bearskin hats within the star-shaped walls of the historic fortress.

Afternoon:

After the Citadel, head to the vast green expanse of the Plains of Abraham for a stroll through the beautifully landscaped Joan of Arc Garden, stopping to admire the vibrant summer blooms. Continue to the historic [Martello Tower 1](https://www.google.com/search?q=Martello+Tower+1+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site), where the kids can use interactive tablets to solve a 19th-century mystery, before ending the afternoon admiring the grand Second Empire architecture of the Parliament Building.

Evening:

Treat the family to a gourmet casual dinner at Le Chic Shack, where the signature burgers and maple shakes are a guaranteed hit with teens. Following your meal, take a scenic walk to the Terrasse Pierre-Dugua-de-Mons to watch the sunset cast a golden glow over the city and the Saint Lawrence River. End the evening immersed in the festive summer energy of Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville, where talented buskers and musicians perform under the city lights.

Day 7 · Tue, Jul 7
Quebec City

Montmorency Falls and Ile d'Orleans

Morning:

Start your morning with a short drive to [Montmorency Falls Park](https://www.google.com/search?q=Montmorency+Falls+Park+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site), where you can marvel at a powerful cascade that stands thirty meters higher than Niagara Falls. Take the [Montmorency Falls Cable Car](https://www.google.com/search?q=Montmorency+Falls+Cable+Car+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site) to the cliffside summit to walk across the dizzying Suspension Bridge, providing a thrilling perspective for the kids as they look directly down into the thundering white water.

Afternoon:

Cross the Pont de l'Île to enter the pastoral landscape of Île d'Orléans, stopping first at the [Chocolaterie de l'Île d'Orléans](https://www.google.com/search?q=Chocolaterie+de+l%27%C3%8Ele+d%27Orl%C3%A9ans+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site) for delicious artisanal chocolate-dipped ice cream. Afterward, head to Ferme Jean-Pierre Plante to enjoy picking sweet, sun-ripened strawberries together while taking in the idyllic views of the surrounding heritage farms and the Saint Lawrence River.

Evening:

Head back to the city for a relaxed dinner at Les 3 Brasseurs on the vibrant Grande Allée-Est, where the family can enjoy the lively outdoor patio scene and hearty fare. After your meal, take a short walk to admire the beautifully illuminated Fontaine de Tourny as it glows in front of the Parliament Building, providing a perfect backdrop for a final night-time family photo.

Day 8 · Wed, Jul 8
Quebec City

Jacques-Cartier National Park Adventure

Morning:

Leave the historic city early for the spectacular glacial valleys of Jacques-Cartier National Park, stopping first at the Discovery and Visitors Centre to gather supplies and trail maps. Kick off your day of nature immersion by embarking on the L'Éperonn trail, a scenic loop that winds through lush forests and offers several breathtaking lookout points directly over the winding Jacques-Cartier River.

Afternoon:

After a picnic lunch, head to the Parc de la Jacques-Cartier Rental Center to rent a family-sized 'rabaska' canoe for a self-guided exploration of the valley's calm waters. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Les Cascades trail, a series of easy boardwalks and paths that lead you past a succession of stunning small waterfalls and boulders. This immersive experience allows the kids to see the park's diverse ecosystem from the water level before you begin the scenic drive back toward the city.

Evening:

Dine in the trendy Saint-Roch neighborhood at Table, where your family can enjoy locally sourced Quebecois cuisine in a stylish yet relaxed urban atmosphere. After dinner, take a short walk to the Jardin de Saint-Roch to admire the beautifully lit fountains and public art before returning to the heart of Old Quebec for a restful night.

Day 9 · Thu, Jul 9
Tadoussac

Scenic Drive to Tadoussac via Charlevoix

Morning:

Depart Quebec City early to traverse the scenic St. Lawrence Route, a designated tourist corridor offering spectacular cliffside views of the river. Make your first stop in the picturesque town of Baie-Saint-Paul, where the kids can explore the whimsical art galleries of Rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste before you pick up some artisanal snacks at [Boulangerie À Chacun son Pain](https://achacunsonpain.ca/) for the journey ahead.

Afternoon:

Continue your journey along the coast to the scenic hamlet of Port-au-Persil, where the kids can explore the rocky shoreline and a hidden waterfall near the historic St. Philip's Church. Afterward, arrive at Baie-Sainte-Catherine to board the Tadoussac-Baie-Sainte-Catherine Ferry, keeping a sharp eye on the waters of the Saguenay Fjord for your first breathtaking glimpse of the region's famous beluga whales.

Evening:

After checking into the iconic Hôtel Tadoussac, enjoy a regional feast at La Galouïne Auberge et Restaurant where the family can sample unique flavors like wild berry confits and smoked fish. Conclude your day with a sunset stroll along the Sentier de la Pointe-de-l'Islet, a scenic boardwalk offering breathtaking views of the Saguenay Fjord and the chance to spot harbor seals bobbing near the rocky shoreline.

Day 10 · Fri, Jul 10
Tadoussac

Whale Watching Expedition and Marine Center

Morning:

Wake up early and head to the Tadoussac Pier to board a zodiac or a larger observation vessel for an exhilarating cruise into the heart of the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park. Keep your binoculars ready as you search for the towering spouts of humpback whales and fin whales while expert naturalists provide fascinating insights about the unique ecosystem surrounding the St. Lawrence River. Feel the crisp maritime breeze as the boat navigates the nutrient-rich waters near the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord, offering the family an unforgettable front-row seat to these majestic marine giants.

Afternoon:

Continue your marine education at the [Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre (CIMM)](https://gremm.org/en/cimm/), where the kids can examine real whale skeletons and listen to fascinating underwater recordings of whale vocalizations. Afterward, head to the spectacular Tadoussac Dunes within the Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay to run down the massive sandy slopes and enjoy an elevated panorama of the St. Lawrence River from the natural terraces.

Evening:

Enjoy a vibrant family dinner at [Café Bohème](https://www.google.com/search?q=Caf%C3%A9+Boh%C3%A8me+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site), where you can savor fresh local flavors on an outdoor terrace overlooking the quaint village streets. Afterward, take a relaxing twilight walk along the sandy shore of Tadoussac Beach to watch the constellations emerge over the calm waters of the bay, marking a perfect end to your marine adventure.

Day 11 · Sat, Jul 11
Tadoussac

Fjord Hiking and Sea Kayaking

Morning:

Kick off your morning by driving to the Baie-Sainte-Marguerite sector of Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay to embark on a scenic hike along the Le Beluga Trail. This family-friendly path leads to the Halte du Beluga observation deck, providing a stunning vantage point to watch pods of white beluga whales as they socialize and nurse their calves in the protected waters below.

Afternoon:

Head to the nearby village of Les Bergeronnes for a guided sea kayaking excursion with Mer et Monde Écotours, where the kids can learn to navigate the gentle waves of the St. Lawrence Estuary. This immersive journey allows your family to glide past the giant granite cliffs of the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park while keeping a watchful eye for curious harbor seals popping up near your kayaks.

Evening:

After an active day on the water, enjoy a feast of regional specialties at [Restaurant Chez Mathilde](https://www.google.com/search?q=Restaurant+Chez+Mathilde+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site), known for its warm hospitality and creative Quebecois cuisine. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll to see the moonlit facade of the Petite Chapelle de Tadoussac before grabbing a flight of flavored craft sodas and local brews at the [Microbrasserie Tadoussac](https://microbrasserietadoussac.com/) to toast to your fjord adventures.

Day 12 · Sun, Jul 12
Tadoussac

Saguenay Fjord Boat Tour and Landscapes

Morning:

Begin your morning by boarding a scenic sightseeing vessel from the Tadoussac Wharf to venture deep into the jaw-dropping glacial landscape of the Saguenay Fjord National Park. Marvel at the towering 350-meter granite cliffs of Cap Éternité and look up to spot the iconic Statue of Our Lady of the Saguenay perched high on the rugged rock face. This boat journey offers your family a majestic new perspective on the fjord's sheer scale and deep waters that differs from the coastline views of previous days.

Afternoon:

After returning to harbor, step back in time at the Chauvin Trading Post, a reconstruction of North America's first fur-trading post where the kids can learn about early interactions between the Innu and European explorers. Later, enjoy an invigorating hike up the Sentier de la Coupe trail to reach a wooden lookout providing a spectacular bird's-eye view of the Tadoussac village and the vast Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park.

Evening:

For your final night in the village, enjoy a relaxed family meal at Côté Mer, which offers a warm atmosphere and delicious local seafood specialties that even the teens will appreciate. Afterward, head to the Marina de Tadoussac to watch the sunset over the harbor before grabbing an artisanal ice cream from Choco-Latte for a sweet conclusion to your time in the region.

Day 13 · Mon, Jul 13
Montreal

Return Journey to Montreal via Local Farms

Morning:

Kick off your return journey by crossing the Saguenay Fjord and heading into the Charlevoix region for a stop at the [Laiterie Charlevoix](https://www.laiteriecharlevoix.com/) to sample award-winning cheeses and visit their boutique museum. Afterward, breathe in the summer scents at Azulée, an organic lavender farm where the kids can explore the vibrant purple fields and enjoy a refreshing lavender-infused snack before continuing the scenic drive toward Montreal.

Afternoon:

Continue the drive south and stop at [Canyon Sainte-Anne](https://canyonsa.qc.ca/), where the family can brave three suspension bridges and witness a powerful 74-meter waterfall from dizzying heights. Afterward, make a final agricultural stop at [Le Grand Marché de Québec](https://legrandmarchedequebec.com/) to snack on hyper-local delicacies and pick up gourmet provisions for the last leg of your journey back to Montreal.

Evening:

Upon arriving back in the city, check into your final stay at Le Westin Montréal before heading to the vibrant Time Out Market Montréal, where the family can choose from a variety of local gourmet dishes in a high-energy urban setting. Afterward, take a gentle walk through the Quartier International to admire the iconic multicolored glass walls of the Palais des congrès de Montréal as they illuminate brilliantly against the night sky.

Day 14 · Tue, Jul 14
Montreal

Botanical Gardens and Departure Prep

Morning:

Spend your final morning exploring the lush landscapes of the [Montreal Botanical Garden](https://www.google.com/search?q=Montreal+Botanical+Garden+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site), specifically wandering through the stunning Chinese Garden and the tranquil Japanese Garden. Afterward, take a short stroll within the Espace pour la vie complex to admire the futuristic architecture of the Olympic Stadium and the soaring [Montreal Tower](https://www.google.com/search?q=Montreal+Tower+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site).

Afternoon:

After exploring the flora, dive into the immersive ecosystems of the [Montreal Biodome](https://www.google.com/search?q=Montreal+Biodome+Plan+a+perfect+14+days+to+Canada%2C+including+Montreal%2C+Quebec+City%2C+whale+watching%2C+nature%2C+for+a+family+with+two+11+and+14+year+old+kids.+The+trip+will+take+place+in+July.+It+should+not+be+more+than+3-4+different+hotel+locations+to+reduce+stress.+Suggest+also+hotels%2C+places+for+eating%2C+etc.+official+site) to spot lynx in the Laurentian Maple Forest and watch penguins play in the sub-polar zones. Afterward, wrap up your trip with some last-minute gift shopping along the vibrant Sainte-Catherine Street, perhaps stopping at the Montreal Eaton Centre to find that perfect keepsake before heading back to prepare for your journey home.

Evening:

For your final meal in Quebec, head to the trendy Little Burgundy neighborhood to enjoy an acclaimed dinner at Liverpool House, where the family can share elevated comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere. Afterward, take a leisurely farewell walk along the historic Lachine Canal to admire the iconic neon glow of the Farine Five Roses sign against the twilight sky before heading back to your hotel to finalize your departure preparations.

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