Is the drive from Montreal to Quebec pretty?

It's basically charming and Pennsylvania/Midwest-like flat countryside mixed with some cute villages...but it goes on f-o-r-e-v-e-r. I convinced my fiance to stay on Chemin du Roy (going from Quebec to Montreal) until Trois Riveries.



The drive from Montreal to Quebec City is widely considered a "Gold Standard" of Canadian road trips, but its beauty depends heavily on the route you choose. If you take the most direct path, Highway 20, the scenery is mostly flat farmland and industrial zones, which some travelers find monotonous. However, for a truly "Gezellig" and pretty experience, you should opt for Route 138, also known as the Chemin du Roy (King's Road). This historic heritage route runs along the north shore of the St. Lawrence River and passes through charming 17th-century villages, historic churches, and local bakeries. In 2026, this route remains a favorite for those who value "Slow Travel," as it offers high-fidelity views of the river and the rolling hills of the Canadian Shield. A grounded peer tip: if you are driving in the fall, the vibrant foliage along the north shore makes this a supportive and breathtaking journey that turns a standard commute into a scenic adventure worth every extra minute.

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It's basically charming and Pennsylvania/Midwest-like flat countryside mixed with some cute villages...but it goes on f-o-r-e-v-e-r. I convinced my fiance to stay on Chemin du Roy (going from Quebec to Montreal) until Trois Riveries. It's a big town on the map, so I was convinced it was going to be the winner.

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The Chemin du Roy (King's Road) is the first roadway built between Québec City and Montréal that could accommodate wheeled vehicles along its entire length.

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The Montreal to Quebec City train ride is very scenic. You'll get to see some of Canada's most beautiful countryside as you travel between the two cities. The train crosses the Saint Lawrence and passes through wilderness and quaint small towns.

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Explore the sights and history of Quebec City on a hassle-free guided day trip from Montreal. Relax in the comfort of a premium bus as you begin the scenic journey with complimentary pickup from downtown Montreal hotels.

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If you prefer a “real-life city” vs. a tourist-focused destination, Montreal should be your city of choice. Montreal is a major city, so of course, there is going to be more to do, restaurants to try, shops to wander in, a livelier night scene, etc. Quebec City could easily be a romantic getaway.

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It can actually end up being more cost-efficient to take the train to Montreal rather than driving. For tourists, it saves on the costs of car rentals or the hassle of standing in long lines at airports. Via Rail is Canada's national passenger railway.

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Narrow roads: Many of the roads in the older parts of the city are narrow and winding, which can make it difficult to maneuver around other vehicles and keep to your lane. Winter weather: Montreal experiences harsh winter weather, including snow and ice, which can make driving conditions more dangerous and challenging.

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Thanks to Montr?al's public transportation system, there really is no need for a car. Parking is relatively cheap, but you might have difficulty finding a spot in the more touristy neighborhoods. Also, gas is expensive: You'll be charged by the liter rather than by the gallon.

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Travel from Montreal and discover Montmorency Falls on the way to Quebec City. Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the St. Lawrence River en-route to Quebec where you can explore the city at your leisure.

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Quebec City is 158 miles up the Saint Lawrence River, northeast of Montreal. How long is the drive from Montreal to Quebec City? There are two main options for driving between Montreal and Quebec City, both of which take about three hours.

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