DK Travel : Montréal and Québec City

Situated on the mighty St Lawrence River, the sights of these two cities captivate visitors with their history, culture and festivity. Not only were they both major players in the foundation of Canada but their portside locations have kept them at the heart of international commerce, resulting in a harmonious blend of heritage architecture and exciting modern venues that charm all those who come to Canada’s “belle province.”

Cross Country Skiing

Cross-country legends abound in Québec, with Herman “Jackrabbit” Johannsen (see Les Laurentides) leading the list of adventurers. In Montréal it is possible to enjoy cross-country skiing in many parks, with locals favoring Parc du Cap Saint-Jacques because of its 900-acre domain.
Dazibao Café

A magical mix of an Irish pub and a French kitchen makes this charming eatery worth a side trip out of town. Try their hearty Irish stew and delicious desserts.
De Maisonneuve Monument

The Sieur de Maisonneuve ambushed by Iroquois stands at Place d’Armes.
Deux-Montagnes

This community, 30 minutes’ drive from Montréal, was first settled by the Sulpician Order during the French Regime, and the fresh produce of this region, including the famous Oka cheese, is a carry-over from the agricultural traditions begun by the priests. Parc National d’Oka offers camping, kayaking, hiking and a sandy beach.
Dogsledding

Winter dogsled trips are a fantastic way of becoming one with nature as packs of huskies pull you through the forests of the province. Contact Sépaq for more information.
Downhill Skiing

There are hundreds of skiing trails throughout the Laurentian, Adirondack, Green and White Mountain ranges within hours of both cities. For Montréalers, the Cantons de l’Est offer pistes at Mont Orford (see Attractions in Cantons de l'Est, Restaurants in Cantons de l’Est), while Québec City enthusiasts have runs at Massif and Mont Sainte-Anne (see Mont Sainte-Anne).
Eggspectations

A breakfast chain serving American-style fare as well as eggs Benedict and smoked salmon.
El Zaz Bar

A landmark in Montréal’s Plateau district, the El Zaz Bar hosts musical acts of all stripes. They also have DJs who are up spinning tunes seven nights a week.
Else’s Bar

This is a favored neighborhood bar for musicians, artists and Bohemian types, and it is a relatively quiet perch in the middle of a bustling quarter. Else’s Bar serves simple food too.
Émile Nelligan

Nelligan (1879–1941) was a romantic figurehead who ushered French-Canadian poetry into a new epoch and is revered by Quebecers as their beloved literary spokesmen. In 1897 Nelligan joined the École Littéraire de Montréal and caused a triumphant public reaction to the reading of his poem “La Romance du Vin.” In later years Nelligan’s sanity deteriorated and he spent his last days in an asylum.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
- under $20
- $20–$40
- $40–$55
- $55–$80
- over $80