For a 5-to-7 day trip in 2026, the ideal split is 3 or 4 days in Montreal and 2 days in Quebec City. Montreal is a sprawling, multicultural metropolis with distinct neighborhoods like the Plateau, Mile End, and Old Montreal. It offers a much wider variety of museums, world-class nightlife, and a legendary food scene (famous for bagels, smoked meat, and high-end gastronomy). You need more time in Montreal simply because there is more "ground to cover." Conversely, Quebec City is much smaller and more focused on its historic "Old Town" (Vieux-Québec), which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. While Quebec City is incredibly charming and romantic, you can easily see its main landmarks—the Château Frontenac, the Citadelle, and the Petit Champlain district—within 48 hours. In 2026, travelers often take the VIA Rail train between the two cities (about 3 hours), making it easy to combine both. If you are a fan of "big city energy" and festivals, lean toward Montreal; if you want a "fairytale European" vibe and slower pace, you might prefer an extra day in Quebec City, though most find 2 days there perfect.