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.”

Hôtel Place d’Armes, Montréal

This captivating hotel represents the crowning glory of the Antonopoulos family of Québec, who preserved much of VieuxMontréal’s heritage architecture. In the hotel’s refined rooms and suites, guests will experience old-world charm and comfort. Features include a rooftop terrace and health club.
Hôtel St-Paul, Montréal

The exterior of this Beaux-Arts building is deceiving, for inside is minimalist comfort and savvy design. Don’t miss the Raw Bar for the best ceviche (raw fish) in town.
Hôtel Terrasse Dufferin, Québec City

Spectacular views of the Château Frontenac and St Lawrence River make this a memorable stay. Rooms are well appointed with amenities such as kitchenettes and balconies.
Hôtel Wyndham Montréal

This is the hotel chosen by the International Jazz Festival of Montréal as the host site for their Midnight Jam Sessions. The hotel has an airy, cosmopolitan energy throughout, the staff are professional and the rooms top notch.
Hudson and Rigaud

A favorite jaunt west from Montréal has traditionally included the communities of Hudson and Rigaud, hugging the mountains along the pastoral Ottawa River. Hudson, with its history of British settlement and fur trading, has a prevalence of historic mansions set on magnificent estates and an abundance of antiques shops, art galleries, and cafés. Its landscape is a popular destination for equestrians, while its riverside setting draws a keen sailing crowd. In contrast, the village of Rigaud is more of a French area, maintaining its Gallic legacy in elegant churches, convents, guesthouses and family-run farms.
Il Teatro

Unpretentious elegance and Italian cuisine. Try scampi fritti alle mandole (shrimp with ginger and couscous).
Ile d’Orléans

This enchanting island outside Québec City is dotted with quaint farms that produce many of the fruits, vegetables and culinary specialties of the region. Designated a heritage site with over 600 preserved buildings, visiting Ile d’Orléans is a memorable experience (see Ile d’Orléans).
Ile d’Orleans

Known as the “cradle of French civilization in North America,” this island of farm communities continues to preserve the traditions of the original settlers (see Ile d’Orléans).
Insectarium, Montréal

This astounding display, unique in North America, celebrates insects of every size and shape. It opened in 1990 thanks to Georges Brossard, who traveled the world to collect the fascinating bugs. Although most of the insects are dead, there are live tarantulas and other creepy crawlies, safely ensconced behind glass (see Insectarium).
International Snow Sculpture Competition

The most famous of all the events during Carnaval. Competitors from around the globe arrive to first rough-sculpt the ice with chain saws then delicately chisel away to form amazing designs. Some of the contestants, such as those from the Caribbean, have never seen snow before, adding to the humorous interaction between the teams and the audiences.

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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
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $50
- $50–$100
- $100–$150
- $150–$200
- over $200