Start your day with a visit to Mont-Royal, a 200-hectare park in the center of Montreal. The park features beautiful views of the city, walking trails, and a lake. Hike to the top of the mountain for an incredible view of the city. During winter, visitors can cross country ski or go tobogganing. The park is also home to the iconic St. Joseph's Oratory, a huge and impressive basilica that is a must-see. The Oratory features beautiful stained glass windows and has a museum and gift shop.
Head to Old Montreal, the historic district of the city, and wander through its cobblestone streets and visit museums and historical sites such as the Notre-Dame Basilica and the Pointe-à-Callière Museum. Take a stroll along the Old Port and enjoy the view of the St. Lawrence River, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the area. Stop for lunch at one of the many French restaurants, cafes, or bakeries, and taste the famous Montreal smoked meat sandwich or poutine.
Visit the Biosphere, a museum of the environment located on Île Sainte-Hélène in the middle of the St. Lawrence River. The museum features exhibits about climate, climate change, water ecosystems, and sustainable development. The Biosphere is located in a geodesic dome created by the famous architect Buckminster Fuller. Visitors can climb to the top of the dome for a breathtaking view of Montreal and the river.
Start your day in Quebec City's Petit Champlain District, the oldest commercial district in North America. The area is full of charming boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and admire the old stone architecture. Visit the Place-Royale, the birthplace of French America and the oldest street in North America, the Rue du Petit-Champlain. Sample some local cuisine such as the famous poutine, a dish made of French fries and cheese curds topped with gravy.
Take a stroll up to the Château Frontenac, a grand castle-like building perched atop a hill overlooking the city. The hotel is a National Historic Site of Canada and is known for its stunning architecture and elegant European-style interiors. Visitors can join one of the guided tours around the hotel to learn more about its history and take in the beautiful views of the city and the St. Lawrence River.
Finish off your time in Quebec City with a visit to the Plains of Abraham, a large park that was once the site of a historic battle between the French and the British. The park features walking and cycling trails and stunning views of the city and the river. Visitors can also take part in cultural events and outdoor concerts throughout the year. Take a peaceful stroll through the park before making your way back to the city center for some dinner at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Quebec cuisine, or European-style desserts.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Montreal Botanical Garden or the Musée d'Art Contemporain de Montréal. For Quebec City, walk along the city walls or take a funicular to the lower town. If you have less time, consider skipping the Biosphere or Plains of Abraham. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, especially in winter when temperatures can be frigid.