The best 8-day winter road trip in Quebec for 2027, chosen by our travellers

Thinking of heading to Quebec for a winter road trip? Take a look at the best winter road trip according to Authentik Canada travellers, featuring snowy Montreal, vast wilderness, frosted forests and quintessential Quebec experiences. It is a surefire way to fall head over heels for winter, even when the thermometer plummets.

Good to know: This itinerary is based on an analysis of over 4,000 road trips taken by Authentik Canada travellers between 2022 and 2026. The stops and activities featured reflect the most popular itineraries and highest-rated winter experiences among our travellers.

Summary: the ultimate 8-day winter road trip in Quebec

In 8 days, this itinerary lets you experience multiple sides of winter in Quebec, from the urban buzz of Montreal and Quebec City to the snowy wilderness of Mauricie and Portneuf.

➡️ Get an instant quote for your travel dates by clicking here:

Day 1: Montreal

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Average flight time from the UK: about 7 to 8 hours for a direct flight to Montreal
• Airport to city centre transfer time: about 20 to 30 minutes
• Atmosphere and scenery: snow-covered streets in Old Montreal, downtown skyscrapers, traditional houses and winter views from Mount Royal
• Families: an easy first stop to alternate between fresh-air outings and indoor activities, particularly at the Biodome or local museums
• Accessibility: there is no need to pick up your car straight away. The metro and public transport make it easy to get around the city, which is especially handy when it is -15 °C outside!

Why start your winter adventure in Montreal?

Before heading out into the snow-covered pine forests, take time to sample winter the Montreal way.

Nearly 7 out of 10 Authentik travellers arrive in Montreal to kick off their Quebec road trip. It is a practical first stop to drop off your bags and settle in before hitting the road.

After a long flight and with jet lag taking its toll, take a stroll through Old Montreal or admire the snow-dusted city from Mount Royal. Montreal gives you a first taste of Quebec winter before you pick up your car the next day and head towards the wide-open spaces of Mauricie.

Your arrival city should be chosen based on:

• the total length of your stay
• flight prices and schedules
• the regions included in your itinerary
• the distance you want to drive in winter conditions

Book an appointment with a local advisor

They are here to listen and help you realize your dreams.

Book an appointment

What to do on a trip to Montreal in winter?

In winter, Authentik travellers mainly go for experiences that let them discover Montreal and its history. Guided tours topped the list of bookings between 2022 and 2026.

You do not need to book everything in advance to enjoy Montreal in the snow. Here are 5 experiences to add to your first day:

1. A must-see for a first visit – Old Montreal
Pull on a beanie and sturdy boots for a walk through the streets of Old Montreal. In the snow, the historic façades and Notre-Dame Basilica give the neighbourhood a completely different character.

2. For a view from above – Mount Royal
Head up to the Kondiaronk Belvedere to admire Montreal dressed in white. After a fresh snowfall, the panoramic view over the city centre is well worth the effort.

3. Ideal for living winter like a local – Mount Royal Park
Snowshoeing, tobogganing or simply a walk in the snow: Mount Royal is one of the best places to enjoy winter pastimes without leaving the city.

4. Perfect for warming up – The underground city
When the thermometer drops sharply, explore another side of the city via the underground pedestrian network. It is also handy for a spot of indoor shopping between outdoor trips.

5. For a cultural break – Montreal's museums
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and Pointe-à-Callière are great options for alternating between outdoor exploring and indoor visits, especially on the coldest days.

Data: Share calculated from activity bookings visible in the Authentik Canada data provided for Montreal between 2022 and 2026, excluding transfers.

Where to stay in Montreal and for how many nights?

According to 2022-2026 booking data (5,665 nights analysed):

• Authentik Canada travellers spend an average of 1.3 nights in Montreal.
• The most booked accommodation is the Best Western Ville-Marie, accounting for 36.0 % of nights on its own.
• Budget accommodation plays a significant role in bookings, a particularly practical choice for this short city stop.

Days 2 to 3: Mauricie

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Driving time from Montreal: roughly 2 to 2.5 hours depending on where you stay
• Vibe and scenery: snowy forests, frozen lakes, wide-open spaces and quiet white roads surrounded by nature
• Families: an ideal stop to introduce kids to the joys of a Quebec winter with activities like dog sledding and snowshoeing
• Getting around: a car is essential for exploring the region. In winter, leave extra time for journeys and always adapt your driving to the weather conditions.

Why visit Mauricie in winter?

In winter, it is best to avoid spending hours on the road. Mauricie is relatively close to Montreal, so you get a proper winter immersion without a long drive. Alongside the Laurentians, it is one of my favourite regions for a winter trip.

Featured road trip

Family winter vacation

New

from
£1,229 / adult + vehicle

See the program

• snowmobile
• 7 days

What to do in Mauricie in winter?

Among the experiences booked by Authentik Canada travellers in winter, 3 stand out as particularly well-suited to the season.

Winter in Mauricie is about much more than just these 3 activities. Here are 5 other experiences to add to your trip:

1. Soak up the scenery with a winter walk
Simply take the time to stroll through the snow-covered landscape. With forests, frozen lakes and wide-open spaces all around, you do not need to go far to enjoy the views.

2. Warm up with a spa session
After a day out in the cold, unwind in a spa or outdoor hot bath while taking in the natural surroundings. It is even better when snow is falling all around you.

3. See Mauricie from a different angle on a winter hike
Several trails stay open through the winter, allowing you to explore the region on foot through snow-laden forests and viewpoints overlooking the surrounding landscape.

4. Keep it simple and play in the snow
Tobogganing, building a snowman or having a snowball fight: enjoy the simple pleasures of a Quebec winter, especially if you are travelling with family.

5. End the day the Quebec way by the fire
After hours spent outside, head back to the warmth of your lodge or outfitter for a cosy evening by the fireside.

Where to stay in Mauricie and for how long?

Based on booking data from 2022-2026 (4,549 nights analysed):

• Authentik Canada travellers spend an average of 1.2 nights in Mauricie.
• The most popular place to stay is the Mauricie National Park campground – Rivière à la Pêche, accounting for 36.1% of all nights.
• Campgrounds top the list of accommodation types booked, closely followed by outfitters and lodges.

❤️Top pick: Mauricie outfitters. I have tried several of them, and for me, they really add something special to a trip. They are often memorable spots tucked away in nature that leave a lasting impression on travellers.

The big advantage of outfitters: everything is in one place. Accommodation and winter activities are usually combined on site. In winter, this is a huge plus: less driving, less logistics and more time to make the most of your trip. For this itinerary, I would choose an outfitter over accommodation that requires getting back in the car for every single activity.

Days 4 to 7: Portneuf

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Driving time from Mauricie: allow around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your starting point and accommodation
• Vibe and scenery: snowy forests, frozen lakes, log cabins and classic Quebec wilderness
• Families: with 3 nights in one place, you have plenty of time to mix snow adventures with quieter moments back at the chalet
• Getting around: a car is still essential for reaching your accommodation and the various activities. In winter, always leave extra time depending on road conditions.

Why continue your winter adventure in Portneuf?

After Mauricie, keep your road trip going in Portneuf, an under-the-radar stop that well deserves a place on any winter itinerary in Quebec.

With 3 nights on site, you have time to unpack and properly settle into the region. Log cabins, snowy expanses and a true winter atmosphere make Portneuf an ideal base for extending your Quebec winter experience.

What to do in Portneuf in winter?

In Portneuf, Authentik travellers also make the most of winter by trying out activities they did not do in Mauricie.

Want to add a bit more to your stay? Here are 5 other ways to experience Portneuf in winter:

1. Bring out your inner child with tobogganing
Head for the snow-covered slopes for a thrilling sledge ride. It is a simple activity, but an absolute must for having fun in the snow.

2. Explore a regional highlight in Vallée Bras-du-Nord
Make the most of your time in Portneuf to visit Vallée Bras-du-Nord and its wild landscapes. In winter, the snow completely transforms the valley's trails and views.

3. To taste authentic Quebec – A hearty local meal
After a day out in the fresh air, it is time to unwind. Take the opportunity to try a few Quebec specialities and share a warm, comforting meal indoors.

4. To try a classic winter pastime – Ice fishing
Set up camp on a frozen lake and try your hand at ice fishing. It is a quintessential Quebec winter activity, set among the snow-covered landscapes of Portneuf.

5. To treat yourself to some downtime – A massage at the chalet
After a few active days in the snow, treat yourself to a massage right at the chalet. It is the ideal way to recharge your batteries before getting back on the road for the next stop.

💬Do not let the thermometer scare you. Seeing –20 °C or –30 °C can be daunting when you are coming from Europe. However, the winter air in Quebec is often dry, making the cold much more manageable than you might think. The key is simply to have the right gear.

Where to stay in Portneuf and for how long?

Based on booking data from 2022 to 2026 (323 nights analysed) :

• Stays booked in Portneuf are heavily concentrated at the Chalet en bois rond.
• The Chalet en bois rond accounts for 94.7% of the nights booked in the region between 2022 and 2026.
• Chalets dominate bookings by a wide margin, well ahead of glamping-style accommodation.

Day 7: Quebec City

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Driving time from Portneuf: around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on your starting point
• Vibe and scenery: snow-covered streets in Old Quebec, historical fortifications, old stone houses and views across the Saint Lawrence River
• Families: an easy stop to explore on foot, featuring classic winter activities such as tobogganing and the Ice Hotel
• Getting around: once you arrive in the centre of Quebec City, leave the car behind. Old Quebec is best explored on foot, though sturdy boots are essential in winter!

Why continue your winter adventure in Quebec City?

3 out of 4 Authentik travellers carry on their road trip to Quebec City after their stop in Portneuf. It is an effortless way to soak up the city atmosphere without leaving the snowy winter wonderland behind.

With its ramparts, cobblestone streets and snow-dusted roofs, Old Quebec takes on a whole new charm in winter. Spending a night here lets you soak up the unique atmosphere, wander through the historic districts at your own pace and tick off a few classic seasonal highlights.

What to do on a trip to Quebec City in winter?

Between gourmet traditions and snow-based adventures, here are the top 3 activities chosen from our winter selection.

Quebec City is also well worth exploring from a different angle. Here are 5 other experiences to add to your itinerary:

1. To step back in time – Get lost in Old Quebec
Wander through the streets of Old Quebec and Petit-Champlain past historic buildings, stone ramparts and snow-clad shopfronts. In winter, the scenery looks straight out of a postcard.

2. To admire a city landmark – Château Frontenac
You cannot visit Quebec City without seeing the Château Frontenac. Head up to Dufferin Terrace to take in views of the Saint Lawrence River and the snow-covered landscapes surrounding the city.

3. To add a cultural touch – Huron Traditional Site
Take advantage of your time in the region to learn more about the history, culture and traditions of the Huron-Wendat Nation in Wendake.

4. To see winter on a grand scale – Montmorency Falls
Just minutes from the city centre, discover Montmorency Falls wrapped in its winter coat. Snow and ice transform the landscape entirely, giving this iconic spot a completely different character.

5. For a sweet local treat – Try maple taffy on snow
Stop by to try the famous maple taffy on snow. It is simple, delicious and about as Quebecois as it gets!

💬There is no need to pile on 15 layers of clothing: My advice is to follow the layering rule, opting for a few well-chosen layers rather than bulky clothing. Start with a good thermal base layer against your skin, then add outer layers depending on your activity and the weather.

Where to stay in Quebec City and for how long?

Based on booking data from 2022 to 2026 (6,807 nights analysed) :

• Authentik Canada travellers spend an average of 1.2 nights in Quebec City.
• The most frequently booked accommodation is the Hotel Chateau Laurier, accounting for 23.8% of nights.
• Travellers have plenty of options in Quebec City, with a strong presence of budget and standard hotels.

Day 8: return to Montreal

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Driving time from Quebec City: around 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours (approx. 250 km)
• Vibe and scenery: driving alongside the Saint Lawrence River in places, passing snow-covered landscapes and gradually returning to the urban bustle of Montreal
• In winter: always allow extra time for the journey depending on road conditions and potential snowfalls
• Final souvenirs: use this last stop to head back into Old Montreal, pick up a few souvenirs or simply enjoy one last authentic meal

Why finish your winter adventure in Montreal?

Nearly 9 out of 10 Authentik travellers head back to Montréal after visiting Québec City. It is a logical final leg to wrap up your road trip right where the adventure began.

After spending days surrounded by snowy forests, winter activities and exploring Québec City, returning to Montréal is a chance to ease off the accelerator before heading home. Use your final hours to revisit a neighbourhood you loved, pick up a few souvenirs in Old Montréal or treat yourself to one last meal out before catching your flight.

💬A handy tip for European travellers: there is no need to buy all your gear once you are in Canada. You can easily pick up decent thermal base layers back home, especially at places like Decathlon. It means you arrive properly kitted out without blowing your budget.