Day 1 Toronto to Montreal | VIA Rail Business ClassEnjoy the facilities of the Business Class Lounge before boarding the train. Complimentary newspapers and non-alcoholic beverages are available in the lounge. Once on your way, the train follows the shores of Lake Ontario, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, to Trenton Junction, where the St. Lawrence River flows from the lake. Passing the village of Napanee, look south as you cross the river to view a series of beautiful waterfalls. The city of Kingston is an historic Canadian city, being the early capital of the “Province of Canada” (1841-1867) and is the birthplace of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald. Here, you cross the Rideau Canal, built in 1832 to connect Kingston with Ottawa and originally designed after the War of 1812 to guarantee a supply route north of the US border in the event of another war. Past Cornwall, the line enters the Province of Quebec. Approaching Montreal, cross the Ottawa River to Dorval, before arriving at Central Station in Montreal. The station is located below the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel in the heart of downtown. (lunch is included today) Day 2 Montreal | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 2 ExcursionsToday you can personalize your day by choosing one of these excursionsOption 1. Private Old Montreal Culinary Walking TourEmbark on a culinary journey through Old Montréal with a private guide. Dive deep into the city's rich culture, blending history and gastronomy. Explore iconic spots like Place d’Armes and Saint-Paul Street, savoring four curated tastings along the way. Marvel at architectural gems, including the ancient Saint-Sulpice Seminary. Relish in local gourmet delights and learn about Montréal's storied past. Option 2. Private Walking Tour of Old Montreal East and WestEmbark on a captivating journey through the eastern & western sector's of Old Montréal, unveiling its historic sites and hidden treasures. Marvel at the majestic exterior of Notre-Dame Basilica, stroll through Cours le Royer, St-Paul Street, and Place Jacques-Cartier, and admire the City Hall and Champ de Mars. Continue off the beaten path, reflecting on Montréal's 19th-century economic boom and its modern-day vibrancy. Highlights include Place d’Armes, St-Jacques Street with its historic banks, McGill Street, and Place d’Youville. Conclude near the iconic Bonsecours Market and Pointe-à-Callière Museum, capturing the essence of Montréal's rich past and dynamic present.Day 3 Montreal to Quebec City | VIA Rail Business ClassFollowing the St. Lawrence River, pass from city suburbs to the rural landscapes of forests and rich pastures, dotted with tiny villages that extend to Quebec City. For the first hour, you will note the rugged Monteregian Hills that seem to loom up from nowhere. These huge volcanic mounds were formed over 120 million years ago. There are seven of these hills in a row, including Mont Royal in Montreal, ending with Monte Rouge near the tiny village of Boloeil. Many of the trees you see are maple trees, producing the great Canadian staple, maple syrup. Your rail journey is just over two hours to Quebec, the oldest walled city in North America and heart of the French Canadian culture of Canada. Arrive into Quebec at Gare du Palais. Steeped in history, Quebec is the most charming city in Canada, 400 years old and most of the original architecture and buildings have been lovingly preserved.(lunch is included today)Day 4 Private Walking Tour of Quebec City Embark on a captivating journey through Old Quebec, exploring both its Upper and Lower towns. Delve into its rich history, marvel at its exquisite architecture, and soak in the culture that permeates every corner. Traverse the Dufferin Terrace, enjoying breathtaking views of the Chateau Frontenac, the St-Lawrence River, and the Plains of Abraham-Citadel. Witness the city's fortifications, the Ursuline's Convent, City-Hall, and the Seminary courtyard, all nestled among stunning churches within the walled city. Descend to the Lower Town, the heart of Quebec City, where the Old Port Marina meets a charming 'antique & art' district. Your enlightening journey culminates at "Place Royale", Quebec City's birthplace, before concluding on the historic Petit Champlain Street, a testament to centuries of commerce.Day 5 Quebec City | DepartureUpon check-out of your hotel your magical winter vacation ends.
