noles22

I am looking to go to Canada for summer vacation (July). My friend and I were thinking 3 days in Quebec City and 3 days in Montreal. Is that too much or too little? Also, it was suggested to take the train and go to Toronto too. Would this be advisable and realistic? I have 7-9 days for this trip.

toedtoes

With just 7-9 days, I would stick with two cities.

I spent 3 days in Montreal last summer:

1 day in Old Montreal
1 day in Olympic Park (Biodome, Botanical Gardens, Olympic Tower)
and
1 day in downtown Montreal

I did not see everything in Old Montreal - 2 days dedicated there would have been nice. I also didn't see everything in downtown Montreal. You could easily spend 4-5 days there without getting bored.

I haven't been to Quebec, but from reading about it here and in guidebooks, 3 days is a good minimum.

Toronto is a great city, but you could save it for another trip (Toronto, 1000 Islands, Niagara Falls, etc.) with your time constraint.

P.S. Take a look at the Montreal Museum Pass - you can save a lot of money on museum access with it and get 3 days on the public transportation.

noles22

Thanks. Would you recommend staying downtown Montreal? I will be using public transportation and not renting a car.

toedtoes

When I went, I was very budget conscious so I ended up staying at the Hotel Olympique in Longueuil. At about $80 per night, it was well below the cost of a downtown room and, as I had a rental car, the free parking was even more savings. I had no problems staying there and taking public transportation over the river (or rather under it) each morning.

However, if you can afford it, staying downtown is far more convenient. The locals usually post on weekdays and will have some great recommendations on hotels in the downtown or Old Montreal areas.

Definitely look into the museum pass. http://tinyurl.com/yr3qw5

For $10, you get the 3-day metro pass (regular $17) so you don't have to worry about carrying change, etc.

zootsi

3 days in each city would be fine, but QC is much smaller than Montreal, and 2 days there with 4 in Montreal might be a better option, unless you have a car and can explore the beautiful countryside outside QC. As far as where to stay in Montreal, there are plenty of posts that cover that subject if you search. My personal favorite area is the Plateau because of the European feel, and countless small restaurants and shops. Just try to avoid the area where St. Catherine intersects St. Laurent, as this area is a little seedy. Public transportation in Montreal is very good no matter where you stay, although the Old City is a bit of a walk from the closest Metro stop.

noles22

Thanks for the info. If I can stay longer, how would I get to Toronto? HOw long of a train ride?