Traveling by train from Montreal to Quebec City is one of the most convenient, comfortable, and scenic ways to move between two of Canada’s most vibrant destinations. The route is operated exclusively by VIA Rail Canada and offers travelers a reliable, direct connection between Montreal’s Central Station and Quebec City’s historic Gare du Palais. Covering a distance of 233 kilometers (144 miles), this journey typically takes between 2 hours 43 minutes and 3 hours 27 minutes, depending on the departure time and service type. With multiple daily departures, modern onboard amenities, and easy access to both city centers, taking the train is a stress-free alternative to driving, flying, or long-distance bus travel.
What makes this trip especially appealing is the combination of comfort and scenery. As the train leaves Montreal and heads northeast, passengers enjoy smooth travel through charming small towns, stretches of forest, and portions of the St. Lawrence River, which are particularly striking during fall foliage and early summer. VIA Rail’s trains offer spacious seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets, food and beverage options, and the choice between Economy and Business Class, allowing travelers to tailor the journey to their style and budget.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, commuting between cities, or exploring Quebec’s cultural highlights, this guide covers everything you need—schedules, ticket prices, travel durations, stations, booking tips, popular attractions, and FAQs. With fares starting as low as $36–$43 CAD, and with trains running from early morning until early evening, traveling from Montreal to Quebec City by train is one of the most efficient and enjoyable ways to experience the Quebec-Windsor Corridor.
Montreal to Quebec City Train Schedule
The Montreal to Quebec City train route is served entirely by VIA Rail, offering one of the most reliable and consistent schedules in the Quebec–Windsor Corridor. Trains run frequently throughout the day, giving travelers plenty of flexibility when planning their journey. According to timetable patterns reflected in Omio’s live departure listings, there are typically 10 direct trains per day, with the earliest departure at 05:29 AM and the latest departure around 18:30 PM. Depending on the season, weekday demand, and VIA Rail’s operational calendar, this can amount to 29 to more than 70 weekly departures, making it one of the most accessible long-distance rail connections in Canada.
What stands out about the Montreal–Quebec City schedule is its consistent spacing. Morning departures are popular among business travelers and commuters looking to arrive in Quebec City before midday, while afternoon and early-evening trains are ideal for leisure travelers or those planning an overnight stay. Trains typically take between 2 hours 43 minutes and 3 hours 27 minutes, depending on whether the service stops at Sainte-Foy before continuing to Gare du Palais, the main station in Quebec City. All services on this route are direct, meaning passengers do not need to transfer or switch platforms mid-journey, which adds to the convenience and reliability of rail travel compared to buses or flights.
Below is a sample schedule table inspired directly by Omio’s live timetable layout. These times reflect actual competitor structure, showing typical VIA Rail services operating between Montreal Central Station and Quebec City’s stations:
Sample Montreal → Quebec City Train Timetable
| Train Service | Departure | Arrival | Duration | Transfers | Station (From) | Station (To) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VIA Rail 20 | 06:25 | 09:52 | 3h 27m | Direct | Montreal (Central Station) | Quebec City (Gare du Palais) |
| VIA Rail 22 | 08:36 | 11:19 | 2h 43m | Direct | Montreal (Central Station) | Sainte-Foy |
| VIA Rail 26 | 03:10 | 06:49 | 3h 39m | Direct | Montreal (Central Station) | Quebec City (Gare du Palais) |
| VIA Rail 28 | 18:25 | 21:48 | 3h 23m | Direct | Montreal (Central Station) | Quebec City (Gare du Palais) |
| VIA Rail 28 | 18:25 | 21:21 | 2h 56m | Direct | Montreal (Central Station) | Sainte-Foy |
| VIA Rail 24 | 11:15 | 14:42 | 3h 27m | Direct | Montreal (Central Station) | Quebec City (Gare du Palais) |
| VIA Rail 24 | 11:15 | 14:15 | 3h 00m | Direct | Montreal (Central Station) | Sainte-Foy |
| VIA Rail 20 | 16:55 | 20:22 | 3h 27m | Direct | Montreal (Central Station) | Quebec City (Gare du Palais) |
| VIA Rail 22 | 19:06 | 22:17 | 3h 11m | Direct | Montreal (Central Station) | Quebec City (Gare du Palais) |
| VIA Rail 28 | 04:55 | 08:18 | 3h 23m | Direct | Montreal (Central Station) | Quebec City (Gare du Palais) |
This structured timetable reflects the typical pattern travelers can expect when booking the Montreal to Quebec City route. Morning, afternoon, and evening departures maintain consistent spacing, while direct services ensure a smooth journey from downtown to downtown without delays or transfers. Whether you are planning a same-day return trip or organizing an extended stay, the schedule provides dependable flexibility, making rail travel one of the easiest and most predictable ways to move between these two major Quebec destinations.
Ticket Prices – Montreal to Quebec City
Train ticket prices for the Montreal to Quebec City route can vary significantly depending on when you book, the travel day, demand, and the class of service you choose. According to fare trends highlighted by both Omio and Kayak, the lowest prices typically start around $36–$43 CAD, especially when booked well in advance. These fares are most commonly found for Economy Class seats on off-peak days and during morning departures, which Kayak identifies as the best time of day for travelers looking to save on rail tickets. The average price for a one-way ticket generally ranges between $66 and $81 CAD, though last-minute bookings or peak-weekend travel can push prices above $100 CAD, especially during holidays or high-demand travel periods.
The most important factor in getting the best fare is how early you book. Omio’s long-term pricing analysis shows that the best rates are typically available 67 to 77 days before travel, with fares rising progressively as the departure date approaches. Travelers who wait until the week of departure often end up paying considerably more, especially if they are traveling on popular days like Fridays or Saturdays. According to Kayak’s fare-trend data, Thursday is usually the cheapest day to travel, while Saturday is the most expensive, likely due to higher tourism and weekend travel demand.
In terms of service classes, Economy Class offers the most affordable fares and is ideal for most travelers, while Business Class—a premium option on VIA Rail’s Quebec–Windsor Corridor—comes at a higher price point but includes added benefits such as priority boarding, more spacious seating, complimentary meals, and access to business lounges at select stations. Travelers who value comfort, onboard service, and extra flexibility often find the upgrade worthwhile.
Below is a simplified pricing table inspired directly by competitor data from Omio, Kayak, and VIA Rail:
Montreal → Quebec City Train Ticket Price Overview
| Ticket Type | Price (CAD / EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest fare | $36–$43 CAD (€35) | Found when booked early; typical Economy fare (Kayak + Omio) |
| Average fare | $66–$81 CAD (€56–€66) | Standard pricing for most departures (Kayak + Omio) |
| Last-minute | $100+ CAD | Prices often surge close to departure (Omio) |
| Business Class | Higher fares | Premium service with meals, extra comfort (VIA Rail) |
Booking early, selecting morning departures, and choosing to travel mid-week are the most effective ways to secure low-cost tickets. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous weekend trip or organizing a business visit, understanding these fare patterns helps ensure you get the best possible value when traveling by train from Montreal to Quebec City.
How to Buy Train Tickets (VIA Rail, Omio, Kayak)
Buying train tickets for the Montreal to Quebec City route is simple, flexible, and available across several trusted platforms. Since VIA Rail is the only operator serving this route, all bookings ultimately come from VIA Rail’s system—but travelers can choose where and how they prefer to purchase tickets. The three most reliable ways to book are through the VIA Rail official website, the Omio app or website, and fare comparison tools like Kayak, each offering unique advantages depending on your travel needs, timing, and budget.
The most direct method is through the VIA Rail official site, where passengers can select their travel class, review full route details, and access exclusive promotions not always shown on third-party platforms. VIA Rail also offers special savings through programs like Discount Tuesday, seasonal promotions, and reduced fares for students, seniors (65+), youth travelers, and families. Traveling with VIA Rail also allows the use of VIA Préférence points, enabling frequent travelers to redeem points for free or discounted trips. When booking directly, travelers can also request special meals, modify reservations, and review specific baggage allowances depending on the class of service.
For travelers who want a fast, mobile-friendly experience, Omio provides one of the easiest ways to buy tickets online. Omio compares available trains on your chosen travel date and displays the cheapest, fastest, and most convenient options in a clean, simple interface. One of Omio’s biggest advantages is the ability to book mobile tickets, meaning passengers can store their ticket within the app and board the train without printing anything. The app also provides live updates, showing schedule changes, platform updates, and real-time travel alerts—features particularly useful for first-time visitors or travelers unfamiliar with Montreal Central Station or Gare du Palais.
Another excellent tool for planning is Kayak, which analyzes ticket prices over time and helps travelers determine the best days to buy. Kayak’s data-driven insights indicate that the best prices are usually found 67 days before departure, and morning departures tend to have the lowest fares. Through Kayak’s comparison engine, users can see price fluctuations for different travel dates, identify the cheapest days of the week (e.g., Thursday is typically the lowest-cost day), and avoid peak-price travel windows such as Saturdays and holiday weekends. Kayak does not issue tickets directly but redirects travelers to VIA Rail or a verified booking partner to complete the purchase.
Whether you prefer booking directly with VIA Rail for full flexibility, using Omio for fast mobile tickets, or leveraging Kayak for advanced price comparison, each platform makes it easy to secure affordable and reliable transportation from Montreal to Quebec City. For the best savings, book early, check mid-week availability, and take advantage of discount programs available for students, seniors, and families.
Montreal to Quebec City Train Operators
The Montreal to Quebec City route is operated exclusively by VIA Rail, Canada’s national passenger rail service and the most popular choice for travelers moving between major cities in Ontario and Quebec. Known for its consistency, comfort, and reliable daily schedule, VIA Rail’s trains along this corridor offer a smooth, stress-free travel experience that appeals to commuters, tourists, families, and business travelers alike. With up to 10 direct trains per day and travel times averaging around 3 hours, VIA Rail remains the most trusted and widely used operator on this route.
One of the key reasons for VIA Rail’s popularity is the emphasis on passenger comfort. Trains feature spacious seating, wide aisles, and a relaxed onboard atmosphere designed to make the journey enjoyable from start to finish. Travelers benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi, individual power outlets, climate-controlled coaches, clean washrooms, and easy access to snacks or light meals through the onboard service. These amenities help make the route particularly appealing to remote workers, students, and tourists who want to stay connected or unwind during the trip.
VIA Rail also offers two main travel classes—Economy and Business—allowing passengers to select an experience that matches their budget and needs. Economy Class provides comfortable seats, free Wi-Fi, and access to snacks and beverages for purchase. It’s the most affordable way to travel and is ideal for short visits, day trips, or family travel. Business Class, available on select departures, upgrades the experience with wider seats, extra legroom, complimentary hot meals and beverages (including alcoholic options), priority boarding, and access to business lounges in certain stations. For travelers looking for additional comfort and convenience, Business Class remains a popular premium option.
With its reliable timetable, modern onboard amenities, and strong reputation for service quality, VIA Rail continues to be the preferred—and only—train operator for those traveling between Montreal and Quebec City.
Onboard Experience & Classes (Economy vs Business)
The onboard experience on the Montreal to Quebec City route is designed to offer comfort, convenience, and flexibility for every type of traveler. VIA Rail provides two primary classes of service—Economy Class and Business Class—each tailored to different travel needs but both delivering a smooth and enjoyable journey through Quebec’s most popular rail corridor.
Economy Class Experience
Economy Class is the most affordable and widely used option on this route, offering a relaxed and comfortable experience without sacrificing essential amenities. Seats are ergonomic, spacious, and arranged with generous legroom, allowing passengers to stretch out and enjoy the scenic journey. Travelers benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi, individual power outlets, climate-controlled cars, and clean washrooms onboard. For refreshments, Economy Class provides access to a selection of light meals, sandwiches, snacks, and beverages available for purchase, closely aligned with what VIA Rail highlights on their official route pages. Families traveling with babies or toddlers will appreciate the changing tables in restrooms, space for strollers, and the ability to store small baggage items in overhead racks or end-of-car luggage areas.
Business Class Experience
Business Class elevates the journey with a more premium and personalized travel environment. Available on several departures between Montreal and Quebec City, Business Class includes priority boarding and access to exclusive business lounges in major stations, creating a smoother, more convenient pre-boarding experience. Once onboard, passengers enjoy extra-wide seats, enhanced legroom, reclining comfort, and a quieter environment that is ideal for working or relaxing. One of the standout advantages is the complimentary catered-type meals and beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, served directly at your seat. Snacks and refreshments vary by departure, and while VIA Rail notes that full meal service may not be available on every itinerary, Business Class consistently offers an elevated food-and-beverage experience compared to Economy.
Accessibility, Family Travel & Pet Policies
VIA Rail places strong emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity, offering services and accommodations for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. This includes accessible washrooms, designated seating areas, assistance with boarding, and support persons traveling free of charge when required. Families will find the train environment particularly convenient: large aisles allow easy movement, space is available for playpens, and microwaves are provided to warm bottles or baby food. For travelers with pets, VIA Rail allows small animals to travel comfortably onboard under specific conditions, while service animals and emotional support dogs follow their own dedicated policy.
Whether in Economy or Business, the Montreal to Quebec City route offers a pleasant and well-equipped onboard experience, ensuring a comfortable trip for solo travelers, families, business passengers, and tourists alike.
Is the Train from Montreal to Quebec City Scenic?
The train journey from Montreal to Quebec City is considered one of the more pleasant and naturally scenic routes within the VIA Rail Quebec–Windsor Corridor. While it is not classified as a dedicated “scenic train,” the route still offers numerous moments of beautiful landscape views, particularly when the train runs closer to the St. Lawrence River and through stretches of rural Quebec. Competitor sources such as Omio highlight this connection for its “beautiful views of the Canadian landscape,” especially during seasonal transitions. Travelers often mention passing through a mix of small towns, quiet farming communities, long stretches of forest, and gently rolling countryside that captures the charm of Quebec outside its major cities.
One of the most memorable aspects of this journey is the fall foliage season, when trees along the corridor turn shades of gold, copper, and bright red. During this time, the combination of morning light, wide window views, and the open landscapes makes the train feel especially atmospheric and photogenic. Even in spring and summer, passengers can enjoy glimpses of fields, distant riverbanks, and clusters of quaint houses that reflect the cultural authenticity of rural Quebec.
Because VIA Rail uses comfortable, well-lit coaches with large windows, the ride feels open and relaxing, giving passengers the opportunity to enjoy a continuously changing panorama throughout the roughly three-hour journey. Although the train does not hug the river the entire way, the intervals where the St. Lawrence River becomes visible are among the most enjoyed by travelers heading toward Quebec City. Seasonal weather, time of day, and departure timing can all influence the sightseeing experience, but overall, the route provides a calm, scenic backdrop perfect for reading, relaxing, or simply watching the province’s landscapes pass by.
Scenic Highlights on the Montreal → Quebec City Route
| Scenic Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| St. Lawrence River Views | Occasional stretches where the river appears along the route, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset. |
| Small Towns & Villages | The train passes through charming communities that reflect rural Quebec’s culture and architecture. |
| Forests & Countryside | Long stretches of wooded areas, farmland, and open fields offering peaceful natural scenery. |
| Fall Foliage | The most scenic time of year, with vibrant red and orange leaves creating picturesque views across the corridor. |
This route may not be a mountain or coastal panorama, but the combination of river views, historic towns, forests, and seasonal color creates a calm, scenic, and enjoyable journey—one of the reasons many travelers prefer the train over driving or flying when traveling between Montreal and Quebec City.
Montreal Central Station Guide (Departure Station)
Montreal Central Station, known locally as Gare Centrale, is the primary departure point for all VIA Rail services traveling toward Quebec City. As one of Canada’s busiest intercity rail hubs, it offers a wide range of amenities, smooth passenger flow, and convenient connections to public transit. Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, the station is directly linked to major hotels, business districts, shopping centers, and the city’s underground pedestrian network, making it one of the most accessible starting points for travelers heading to Quebec City.
The station features a modern and well-organized layout with clear signage, spacious waiting areas, ticket counters, automated kiosks, and VIA Rail staff available to assist travelers. In line with Omio’s station descriptions, Montreal Central Station provides passengers with free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, accessible washrooms, and plenty of options for dining, coffee, and grab-and-go meals before boarding. Those arriving early can take advantage of the station’s lounge access (available to Business Class passengers), luggage carts, and information desks located throughout the main hall. The station also offers secure baggage storage, bike parking, and easy access to the underground parking structure.
Public transit connections are another major advantage of departing from Central Station. The station connects directly to Montreal’s Metro system (Orange Line), several STM bus routes, and the new REM (Réseau express métropolitain) lines, allowing travelers to reach the station without needing a car. Taxis and rideshare pick-up zones are located outside the main entrance, and the station is within walking distance of important downtown districts for passengers staying nearby.
Montreal Central Station – Amenities Overview
| Amenities | Description |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Free |
| Lockers | Available |
| Parking | Yes (underground parking, open daily) |
| Dining | Multiple restaurants & cafés inside the station |
| ATMs | Available throughout the concourse |
| Lounge | VIA Rail Business Lounge available |
| Car/Bike rentals | Available via on-site providers |
| Operating hours | 6 AM – 11 PM (ticket office and station access) |
Address
895 de la Gauchetière West, Montréal, QC H3B 4G1, Canada
Public Transit Connections
- Metro: Orange Line (Bonaventure Station, connected internally)
- REM: Direct access to Central Station platforms
- Buses: Multiple STM routes serving downtown Montreal
- Taxi / Rideshare: Dedicated zone outside the main entrance
With its combination of modern facilities, extensive services, and direct transit links, Montreal Central Station provides a smooth, efficient, and comfortable departure experience for anyone beginning their journey to Quebec City by train.
Quebec City Train Station Guide (Arrival Station)
The final stop for all Montreal–Quebec City trains is Gare du Palais, the beautifully restored historic station located in the heart of downtown Quebec City. Built in 1915 and designed in the Châteauesque architectural style, the station resembles a small castle and provides one of the most charming arrivals in Canada. Because it sits right next to the Old Port and within walking distance of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec), most passengers can begin sightseeing immediately upon stepping outside.
Gare du Palais is a compact, traveler-friendly station offering essential services such as Wi-Fi, restrooms, a staffed ticket counter, accessibility support, and comfortable waiting areas. The station also connects efficiently to Quebec City’s public transit network, including RTC buses, many of which stop directly in front of the building. For riders continuing farther into the city, taxis and ride-share vehicles like Uber are available 24/7 at the main entrance. Several popular hotels—such as Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Hotel Clarendon, and Hôtel Port-Royal—are just 5–12 minutes away.
Because the station is located downtown, travelers do not need additional transfers to reach the city core. Restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, and the Old Port Market are all within a short walk, making Gare du Palais one of the most convenient terminal stations on any VIA Rail route.
Amenities at Gare du Palais (Arrival Station)
| Amenities | Description |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Free Wi-Fi throughout the station |
| Restrooms | Clean, accessible washrooms |
| Parking | Paid on-site parking + nearby public garages |
| Dining | Cafés, vending machines, and snack kiosks |
| Ticket Counter | VIA Rail staffed ticket office for assistance |
| Accessibility | Elevators, ramps, accessible seating, boarding assistance |
| Taxis | Taxi stand located at the front entrance |
| Public Transit | Direct RTC bus connections steps from the station |
| Luggage Services | Baggage storage and luggage assistance available |
| Bike Parking | Bike racks located near the entrance |
| Operating Hours | Typically 5:30 AM – 11:00 PM (VIA Rail dependent) |
Montreal to Quebec City: Bus vs Train vs Flight
Traveling between Montreal and Quebec City gives you three main transportation choices: train, bus, and flight. Each mode offers different advantages depending on your budget, schedule, and comfort preferences. Based on competitor insights (Omio), the train remains the most popular option because it provides a comfortable, scenic, and city-center-to-city-center travel experience. Buses offer the lowest prices but usually require extra travel time. Flights are the quickest in the air but become significantly longer once you factor in airport transfers, check-in, and security.
The train stands out because VIA Rail operates direct services, reliable timetables, and a smooth journey along the St. Lawrence River. Travelers enjoy spacious seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and better legroom than buses. The bus can be a good choice for budget travelers, but comfort and speed are limited compared to the train. The flight option is rarely preferred—although flying is only 1 hour 35 minutes in the air, real travel takes over 3 hours when including airport lines and transfers from YUL or YQB.
Below is a direct comparison table to help you choose the best mode of transport for your trip from Montreal to Quebec City.
Comparison Table: Montreal to Quebec City Transportation
| Mode | Avg Price | Duration | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (VIA Rail) | $35–$66 CAD | ≈ 3 hours | Scenic route, comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, downtown-to-downtown travel, no security checks | Prices increase closer to departure; Business Class costs more |
| Bus (Intercity/Infobus) | ≈ $43 CAD | ≈ 3h 40m | Cheapest option, multiple daily departures | Slower, less legroom, fewer amenities |
| Flight (YUL → YQB) | ≈ $168 CAD | 1h 35m flight + 2h airport time | Fastest in-air time, frequent departures | Most expensive, airport transfers, security checks, delays |
Which Option Is Best?
- Best Overall: Train — comfortable, scenic, reliable, and fastest downtown-to-downtown option.
- Best for Budget Travelers: Bus — lowest total cost if you don’t mind longer travel time.
- Fastest in Theory: Flight — but total travel time can equal or exceed the train when adding airport procedures.
Tips for a Smooth Train Journey
Traveling from Montreal to Quebec City by train is simple and stress-free, but a few smart tips can make your trip even smoother. Since VIA Rail is a busy operator—especially during weekends and holidays—arriving early ensures you get through the station, find your platform, and board without rushing. Morning departures are usually the cheapest, as confirmed by Kayak’s price-tracking data, so travelers planning a budget-friendly trip should prefer early morning trains.
Always download your mobile ticket in advance through VIA Rail or Omio so you’re not dependent on station Wi-Fi. If you are traveling with luggage, review VIA Rail’s carry-on and checked baggage rules, especially if you’re carrying specialty items, pets, or strollers. Snacks and drinks are available onboard, but many passengers prefer bringing their own for convenience.
Business Class is highly recommended during peak hours (such as Friday evenings or Monday mornings), as it includes priority boarding, lounge access at Montreal Central Station, and complimentary meals—making the journey far more comfortable during crowded travel conditions.
Table: Key Tips for a Smooth Montreal–Quebec City Train Trip
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Arrive 20–30 minutes early | Ensures relaxed boarding and time to locate your platform at Montreal Central Station |
| Choose morning departures | Lowest fares based on Kayak data and less crowding |
| Bring snacks / water | Onboard food is available, but having your own is convenient |
| Check VIA Rail baggage rules | Avoid surprises with carry-on limits and checked bag fees |
| Download mobile ticket before arrival | Prevents delays caused by weak station Wi-Fi |
| Upgrade to Business Class during rush hours | Lounge access, priority boarding, complimentary meals, more comfort |
| Keep devices charged | Outlets are available, but having a full battery avoids waiting for shared sockets |
| Check live train status on VIA / Omio | Helps you plan arrival and connection times |
Things to Do in Quebec City
Quebec City is one of Canada’s most charming destinations, blending European-style architecture, centuries-old history, and vibrant cultural life. After arriving at Gare du Palais, you’re only minutes away from the heart of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with cobblestone streets, fortified walls, boutique shops, and panoramic viewpoints. This historic district is the only walled city north of Mexico and offers an immersive journey through more than 400 years of French-Canadian heritage.
A must-see landmark is Château Frontenac, one of the world’s most photographed hotels, perched majestically above the St. Lawrence River. Visitors can explore the nearby Terrasse Dufferin, a scenic boardwalk offering sweeping river views and access to the funicular leading down to the charming Petit Champlain district. Petit Champlain is one of North America’s oldest neighborhoods—its stone buildings, artisan boutiques, bistros, and festive lights create a picture-perfect atmosphere all year round.
History lovers should visit the Plains of Abraham, a massive 255-acre park that served as the site of the 1759 battle that reshaped North America. Today the park is ideal for walking, picnics, museum visits, and seasonal events. Quebec City is also rich in culture, with world-class museums and galleries such as the Musée de la civilisation and the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec showcasing everything from Indigenous art to interactive family exhibits.
Whether you’re exploring fortifications, visiting modern art spaces, or wandering through lively districts filled with cafés and street performers, Quebec City offers endless activities for day-trippers and long-stay travelers alike.
Table: Top Things to Do in Quebec City
| Attraction | Highlights | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) | UNESCO World Heritage Site, fortified walls, cobblestone streets | Historic architecture and European charm steps from the train station |
| Château Frontenac & Terrasse Dufferin | Iconic castle-style hotel, panoramic views of St. Lawrence River | Most photographed hotel in the world; amazing viewpoints |
| Petit Champlain District | Artisan shops, cafés, winter decorations, funicular access | One of North America’s oldest shopping streets; perfect for strolling |
| Plains of Abraham | 255-acre urban park, historic battlefield, scenic trails | Relaxing green space with deep historical importance |
| Musée de la civilisation | Interactive exhibits, family-friendly activities | A modern, engaging museum exploring Quebec’s cultural history |
| Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec | Canadian art, sculpture gardens, contemporary galleries | A must-visit for art lovers; stunning architecture |
| Old Port Market (Marché du Vieux-Port) | Local foods, maple products, fresh produce | Perfect for tasting Quebec specialties minutes from Gare du Palais |
FAQs – Montreal to Quebec City Train
1. How long is the train from Montreal to Quebec City?
The average travel time is about 3 hours, with most VIA Rail trains taking between 2h 43m and 3h 27m depending on the service. Some departures are faster, especially morning and mid-evening trains. The journey is smooth, comfortable, and entirely direct with no transfers required.
2. How much is the train ticket from Montreal to Quebec City?
Tickets typically range from $36 to $81 CAD depending on how early you book, the travel day, and demand. Kayak data shows that prices rise closer to the departure date, while Omio indicates that booking 60–77 days ahead helps secure cheaper fares.
3. What is the cheapest ticket price available?
The lowest one-way fare generally starts at $35–$43 CAD, which is consistently reported by both Omio and Kayak for advance-booked Economy Class tickets.
4. Are there direct trains from Montreal to Quebec City?
Yes. Every train on this route is 100% direct, with no transfers. VIA Rail operates all services between the two cities.
5. What is the distance between Montreal and Quebec City?
The rail distance is approximately 144 miles (233 km).
6. How many trains run per day?
There are usually 10 trains per day, though the exact number may vary slightly by season and schedule updates. VIA Rail lists 29 weekly departures on average.
7. What time is the first and last train?
- Earliest departure: around 05:29 AM
- Latest departure: around 18:30 PM
These times may shift slightly based on weekday vs weekend schedules.
8. Is the Montreal–Quebec City train scenic?
Yes. Competitors like Omio note that while it is not a mountain route, the journey offers pleasant scenery—St. Lawrence River views, farmland, small towns, and some of the best fall foliage in Canada.
9. Which station does the train depart from in Montreal?
All trains leave from Montreal Central Station (Gare Centrale) located at 895 Rue de la Gauchetière Ouest. It has Wi-Fi, lounges, restaurants, baggage services, and connections to the Metro, REM, and city buses.
10. Which station does the train arrive at in Quebec City?
Trains arrive at Gare du Palais, a beautiful historic station located in downtown Quebec City within walking distance of Old Quebec and the Old Port.
11. Is Wi-Fi available on board?
Yes, VIA Rail provides complimentary Wi-Fi in both Economy and Business class, though speeds vary based on location.
12. How much luggage can I bring?
Most passengers may bring:
- 2 carry-ons, plus
- 2 checked bags depending on fare type
Special items, strollers, instruments, and sports equipment follow VIA Rail’s baggage policy.
13. Are pets allowed on the train?
Yes, small pets in approved carriers are allowed, similar to VIA Rail’s national pet policy. Certified service animals are always permitted.
14. Are meals available onboard?
Yes.
- Economy Class: sandwiches, snacks, and drinks for purchase
- Business Class: complimentary catered meals and alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages (service varies by schedule)
15. Is Business Class worth it?
For peak travel times, absolutely. Business Class offers lounge access, priority boarding, spacious seating, free meals, and a quieter travel environment—ideal for work travelers or those seeking more comfort.
Conclusion – Why Train is the Best Way to Travel
Traveling from Montreal to Quebec City by train remains the most convenient, comfortable, and traveler-friendly option for nearly every type of journey. With direct VIA Rail departures, an average travel time of about 3 hours, and smooth downtown-to-downtown connectivity, the train easily outperforms buses and flights when you consider total travel time, comfort, and reliability. You board right in the heart of Montreal at Central Station and arrive directly at Quebec City’s historic Gare du Palais, steps away from Old Quebec, major attractions, and city hotels—no airports, no transfers, and no stress.
The route itself is pleasantly scenic, featuring stretches along the St. Lawrence River, charming small towns, and seasonal landscapes, especially vibrant during the fall foliage season. With free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and optional Business Class upgrades—including lounge access and complimentary meals—the train offers a relaxing travel environment whether you’re commuting, working, or exploring.
For budget-minded travelers, early booking can secure fares as low as $35–$43 CAD, and choosing a weekday morning departure can significantly reduce the cost. Since all trains are direct and schedules are frequent, it’s also the best choice for tourists, weekend travelers, and travelers planning a day trip from Montreal.
Fast, scenic, affordable, and hassle-free—taking the train is simply the best way to travel from Montreal to Quebec City.
