In September 2024, I set off on a weeklong trip to Canada. I visited three of the country’s most captivating cities — Ottawa, Québec City, and Montréal. Each city had its own personality. Ottawa was dignified and historic. Québec City felt like stepping into a European fairytale. Montréal buzzed with culture and cosmopolitan charm.
We stayed mainly in Montréal, but each stop offered something special. There were Parliament buildings and basilicas. We also explored cobblestone streets and markets filled with local treasures.
🇨🇦 Ottawa — The Capital’s Quiet Charm
Our adventure began in Ottawa, the federal capital of Canada. Even with just one night here, the city left a lasting impression.
We started at Parliament Hill, where the neo-Gothic architecture stands proudly against the Ottawa River. The view from the promenade was stunning — especially under the golden late-summer sun.
Next, we visited the Canadian Museum of History, just across the river in Gatineau. Its exhibits beautifully capture the country’s rich past, from Indigenous heritage to modern milestones.
Before leaving, we made a stop at ByWard Market. It is a lively hub of cafés, local vendors, and flower stalls. The atmosphere felt cozy and welcoming, and it was the perfect place to grab a bite before the road trip to our next destination.
Québec City — A Touch of Old-World Magic
Stepping into Old Québec felt like traveling to Europe without leaving Canada. The cobblestone streets, pastel buildings, and charming boutiques made it one of the most picturesque places I’ve ever been.
We spent much of our day wandering through Old Québec, taking in the views around Château Frontenac. We explored the fortifications that give the city its storybook feel. The air smelled faintly of pastries and autumn — an irresistible combination.
We also crossed over to Lévis. It is a small town across the river that offered breathtaking views of the Québec City skyline. Watching the Quebec City skyline there was nothing short of magical.
Before heading back, we stopped by the Québec Parliament, an elegant building surrounded by gardens and fountains. It’s a perfect example of how the city blends beauty and history at every turn.
Montréal — Culture, Cathedrals, and City Lights
Our home base for the trip was Montréal, the Francophone capital of Canada. We stayed there for the remainder of our journey. Montréal felt alive — a city where art, architecture, and culture meet effortlessly.
We began with a visit to Notre-Dame Basilica, one of the most stunning churches I’ve ever seen. Its vibrant blue interior and golden accents are absolutely breathtaking in person. Nearby, we also visited Mary, Queen of the World Basilica, a smaller yet equally grand cathedral inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Another highlight was St. Joseph’s Oratory, perched high on Mount Royal. The climb up its long staircase is worth every step. The view of the city below is serene and unforgettable.
While exploring downtown, we discovered The Ring (La Grande Anneau). It is an enormous circular sculpture. This sculpture frames the skyline beautifully. Set between sleek glass towers, it’s become one of Montréal’s most striking modern landmarks. Standing beneath it felt like we were inside the city’s pulse. It is where creativity, design, and movement come together in perfect balance.
During our wander through Old Montréal, we also stopped by Montréal City Hall, a stunning example of Second Empire architecture. With its elegant façade and stately presence, it felt like a glimpse into the city’s political and historical heartbeat. It stands gracefully among the cobblestone streets — a reminder of Montréal’s blend of old-world charm and modern vibrance.
No visit to Montréal is complete without strolling through Old Montréal. Its cobblestone streets, historic facades, and charming cafés feel like scenes from a movie. We concluded our time in the newer part of the city by visiting the Eaton Centre and exploring the shops. We soaked in the energy of the city.
A Prehistoric Detour — Parc du Dinosaure, Sainte-Léonard-d’Aston
We stopped between our time in Québec City and Montréal. It was a quick but memorable stop at Parc du Dinosaure in Sainte-Léonard-d’Aston. It was such a fun surprise. This quirky roadside attraction is hidden just off the highway. It is filled with life-sized dinosaur sculptures. The sculptures are scattered among trees and open spaces.
Walking through the park felt like stepping into a prehistoric storybook. The dinosaurs towered over us — from towering T-Rexes to gentle long-necked herbivores — all frozen mid-roar or mid-stride. It’s playful, a little unexpected, and full of nostalgic charm.
Even though it’s not a long stop, it’s absolutely worth a visit if you’re driving between Québec City and Montréal. It’s the kind of place that adds a little whimsy and adventure to a road trip. It offers something different from the historic architecture and museums. However, it is equally memorable in its own way.
Reflections on My Canadian Journey
This six-day trip was a perfect blend of history, culture, and beauty. Ottawa felt stately and calm. Québec City whisked me away with its old-world elegance. Montréal captured my heart with its liveliness and charm.
Each city had its own rhythm — and together, they painted a beautiful picture of Canada’s diversity and spirit. This trip was a reminder of how travel can make you fall in love with discovery. It took us from basilicas to markets. It also led us from modern cityscapes to centuries-old streets.
Have you ever visited any of these Canadian cities? Which one would you love to explore first? 🇨🇦
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