One Month in Canada: Which Itinerary for 30 or 31 Days?

You’re planning a one month trip to Canada and you’re looking for the best Itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this recommended Itinerary for a month in Canada. You will discover some of the best places to visit in the Eastern part of the country!

Quick note: if you prefer to spend a month in Canada exploring both the East and West, I’ll explain how towards the end of this article.

You will start in Montreal, and then explore the best of Quebec province up to the Gaspé Peninsula.

You will then head to Ontario province and visit Toronto (including Niagara Falls of course!) and Ottawa. Of course, during your journey, you will discover some of Canada’s most beautiful national parks.

For this itinerary, in addition to the best things to do and must-see attractions, I will also give you all my best tips as well as my list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Canada in 30 or 31 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1) Montreal (2 days)

For this trip to Canada, I suggest landing in Montreal. It’s most convenient for touring Eastern Canada by car in a loop.

On arrival at the airport, you can pick up your rental car. To book it, you should use Booking.com Cars.

On their website, you can:

• Directly compare rental rates to find out who’s the cheapest or has the best reputation.
• Take advantage of comprehensive insurance coverage. It’s super efficient and covers all damages to your car (scratches, accidents, theft…). Tried and tested! They’ve already refunded me over 1,300 euros in total. Plus, it’s much cheaper than what the rental companies offer.
• Modify or cancel your reservation for free.

Click on the button below to compare car rental prices:

Spend a relaxed evening and a night in Montreal to recover from the jet lag.

The next day, I suggest visiting part of the city:

• A stroll in the Old Montreal district and along the Old Port, next to the river
• Climbing up to the Mount Royal lookout and wandering around the park
• A walk in the Mount Royal neighborhood, one of the most characteristic areas with its houses featuring spiral staircases
• Dining at La Banquise, a place famous for Quebec’s traditional dish: poutine! They serve it in all variations.

Spend a second night in Montreal.

Where to stay in Montreal

• M Montreal: A youth hostel just a 5-minute walk away from Berri Uquam metro station on Sainte Catherine street. You can grab a bed in a modern, cozy dorm for just 25€ a night, breakfast included. You can also book a double room if you prefer. Strong points: Super friendly staff, modern facilities, basement bar with occasional live performances. A fantastic choice for budget-friendly accommodations in Montreal!
• Best Western Plus Hotel Montreal: Located in the bustling Quartier des Spectacles. You can book a warm, spacious double room starting from €150 per night. Strong points: Perfect location for exploring Montreal, clean and comfy beds.
• Le Dauphin Montréal Centre-Ville:: Just 200 meters away from the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal and a 5-minute walk from the Old Port. Double rooms starting from €170, breakfast included. Strong points: Great location, spacious rooms, and large beds.
• Le Petit Hotel Montreal:: Located in the historical center of Montreal. Rooms with character (think stone walls and exposed brick) starting from €250, breakfast included. Strong points: Excellent service, a delicious breakfast, and the charming ambiance of the hotel.
• Le St-Martin Hotel Centre-ville – Hotel Particulier:: Just 50 meters away from Saint Catherine West Street. Stylish, cozy double rooms starting from €290. Strong points: An enchanting pool with waterfalls and jets, delightful staff, prime location, and comfort. My recommendation for a high-end stay in Montreal!
• Hôtel Birks Montréal: Located in the city center, this 5-star hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms starting from €500, with breakfast at an additional €19. Strong points: Prime location, beautiful architecture, friendly staff, and a luxurious spa. The best hotel in Montreal for a luxury stay!

2) The Thousand Islands (1 day)

To truly start your month-long trip in Canada, I suggest you head to the Thousand Islands, a 3-hour drive from Montreal.

As their name suggests, the Thousand Islands are actually several islands (1,865 in total) of varying sizes, inhabited or not, located on the Saint Lawrence River and at the mouth of Lake Ontario.

To explore them, you can embark on a boat from the cities of Rockport, Gananoque, and Kingston. The outing lasts between 1 to 5 hours and takes place every day from May to October.

To book your 3-hour cruise around the Thousand Islands, just click the button below:

The same cruise also comes in a shorter 1.5-hour version:

If your budget is a little higher, you also have the option to fly over the Thousand Islands in a helicopter! Get ready to soak up some epic scenic views from up high!

You can book this activity by clicking on the button below:

Spend a night in the Thousand Islands.

Where to stay in the Thousand Islands

• Howard Johnson Gananoque: A motel located 1.5 km from the cruise departure point. Spacious and comfortable double room starting from €70 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: location, outdoor swimming pool, cleanliness, comfortable bedding, good breakfast, free parking. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
• Comfort Inn & Suites Thousand Islands Harbour District: Located a 5-minute walk from the boat departure point. Comfortable double room starting from €100 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, free parking, breakfast, quality of service, location.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites 1000 Islands: Located 2 km from the cruise departure point. Modern and cozy double room starting from €150 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, sauna, room comfort, good breakfast, tranquility.

3) Toronto (3 days)

The next three days of this month-long stay in Canada will be dedicated to exploring Toronto and its surroundings.

Allow 2.5 hours from the Thousand Islands to reach Toronto.

Here are some sightseeing ideas for your first day:

• The vibrant Kensington Market neighborhood and its incredible street art scene.
• Chinatown. You could for instance explore Kensington and Chinatown with a guided tour. Book here:
• The Distillery District with its hip shops and cafes. You can book your guided tour here.
• St. Lawrence Market, where local goodies reign supreme. Book your tasting tour here.
• Ripley’s Aquarium Grab your tickets here
• The CN Tower, where the panoramic elevator will whisk you up to a height of 346 meters in just 58 seconds! You can then step onto the transparent glass floor and soak in the 360° view.

Stay your first night in Toronto.

Day two in Toronto:

• Discover Casa Loma, an incredible medieval castle with stunning views of the city. Get your tickets here!
• Make sure to check out the Royal Ontario Museum famous for its one-of-a-kind architecture and design. Pick up your tickets here.

For the afternoon, why not make your way to the Toronto Islands which you can explore by bike (cars are banned) or by boat.

Sleep your second night in Toronto.

On the third and final day around Toronto, I recommend heading to the mighty Niagara Falls.

No way you can embark on a month-long road trip in Canada without making a stop there!

They’re a 1.5-hour drive from Toronto.

And there, of course, you can’t miss the opportunity to take the cruise that brings you right to the base of the falls. To ensure you secure a spot, it’s recommended to reserve in advance using the button below:

And if you want to experience something extraordinary during month-long Canadian road trip, consider taking a helicopter ride over the falls:

Lastly, if you’re looking for a panoramic view of the falls, I recommend going to the top of the Skylon Tower. You can reserve tickets directly here to secure your spot and enjoy the breathtaking vista!

The “Journey Behind The Falls” activity (click here to book your tickets) also allows you to reach an observation deck, but this time it’s located at the foot of the falls, via tunnels, 40 meters underground.

After your visit to the falls, get back in your car to drive along the Niagara Parkway to the village of Niagara-on-the-Lake. The landscapes along the way are absolutely stunning, and the village itself is picturesque beyond words.

Return to Toronto for one last night’s sleep.

Where to stay in Toronto

It’s not so easy to find a hotel that offers good value for money in Toronto. To help you out, I’ve prepared a list of the best hotels depending on your budget.

One last tip: If the place you’re attracted to is available, book it right away. Demand is very high in the city, and the best accommodations disappear (very) quickly!

• The Clarence Park: This youth hostel is located a 10-minute walk from the CN Tower. Dormitory bed from €35 per night. Strong points: the location, the conviviality, curtains for dormitory beds, modernity. An excellent choice for budget accommodation in Toronto!
• Margie Townhome Suites: This guesthouse is located a 5-minute walk from the Eaton Centre. Cozy and pleasant rooms starting from €110. Strong points: the location, the calm, proximity to the metro.
• The Novotel Toronto Centre: Located right next to St. Lawrence Market. Contemporary and very spacious double rooms starting from €150. Strong points: indoor pool, location, excellent breakfast.
• One King West Hotel and Residence: Nestled in Old Toronto, a mere 5-minute walk from the St. Lawrence Market. This joint boasts modern, spacious and elegant suites, complete with stunning city views, starting from €190, with a breakfast option at €17. Strong points: Prime downtown location, top-notch bedding, and the breathtaking views.
• The Omni King Edward Hotel: For anyone looking to treat themselves during their Toronto escapade. This upscale hotel resides in the financial district, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Eaton Centre. Cosy double rooms with tasteful décor start from €300, with breakfast at an extra €23. Strong points: prime location, attentive staff, room décor, and comfort, as well as an excellent breakfast. A perfect choice for a luxury stay in Toronto or a romantic night with your partner!
• Bisha Hotel Toronto: A 5-star hotel just 500m from the CN Tower. This establishment boasts superb rooms designed by none other than star Lenny Kravitz’s designer studio. Starting at a cool €390. Strong points: the infinity pool on the rooftop with views of the CN Tower, the hotel’s excellent restaurants, and an ideal location. The best hotel in Toronto for a luxury stay!

You may have noticed, staying in downtown Toronto isn’t exactly cheap, but that’s to be expected given it’s a bustling Canadian tourist hub.

If you’re looking to save a bit and don’t mind staying a bit further out, hotels near the Toronto Airport (about 17km from downtown) generally offer lower rates.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Doubletree by Hilton Toronto Airport
• Best Western Plus Travel Hotel Toronto Airport
• Courtyard by Marriott Toronto Airport
• Hampton Inn by Hilton Toronto Airport Corporate Centre

4) Ottawa (1 day)

For the next stage of this 1-month itinerary in Canada, let’s now head to Ottawa, a 4h15 drive.

Guess what? You may be surprised to learn that Ottawa is the actual capital of Canada! I bet you probably thought of Montreal, Toronto, or Vancouver, but the honor goes to the vibrant city of Ottawa itself.

After a morning of hitting the road, here’s the plan I’ve got lined up to explore Ottawa:

• Grab a delicious lunch at Byward Market and top it off with a must-try treat: a Beaver Tail, a mouthwatering traditional pastry.
• Stroll around Parliament Hill 
• Visit the Canadian Museum of History. Make sure you book your tickets in advance by clicking here!
• Take a walk along the Rideau Canal

For more details about Ottawa, check out my article: Visiting Ottawa

Sleep in Ottawa.

Where to stay in Ottawa

While Ottawa may be the capital of Canada, it’s still a small city.

So, the selection of accommodations is somewhat limited. You should book a room from my selection in advance and not to dally too long.

• HI Ottawa Jail Hostel : This youth hostel is housed in a restored old jail. You’ll be sleeping in upgraded cells (I assure you!) Dorm bed from €30, breakfast included. Strong points: the uniqueness of the place, excellent location, and delicious breakfast. A great affordable choice for lodging in Ottawa!
• The Business Inn: Hotel located 1.3km from Parliament Hill. Well-equipped studio with a kitchen starting from €100 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: prime location, spacious rooms, an in-room computer with printer, and the ability to cook for yourself. My absolute favorite for its unbeatable value for money in Ottawa!
• Andaz Ottawa Byward Market-a concept by Hyatt: Located in the Byward Market neighborhood. Double room with modern and sleek decor from €190 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: great location, friendly staff, rooftop terrace, and an extensive and varied breakfast buffet.
• Fairmont Château Laurier: 5-star hotel (the only one in Ottawa) located a 10-minute walk from Parliament Hill. Spacious and comfortable double room from €365 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: high-quality services, room comfort, indoor swimming pool, attentive and helpful staff. The best hotel in Ottawa for a luxury stay!

5) Mont-Tremblant (1 day)

To continue your epic month-long journey in Canada, it’s time to bid farewell to Ontario and make your way to Mont-Tremblant in Quebec.

It’s just a quick drive of under 2 hours away from Ottawa.

On the way, you can even stop to visit Omega Park in Montebello. It’s home to several iconic animals of the country roaming freely. You’ll experience the park safely from your car.

Once in Mont-Tremblant, you can go hiking, engage in water activities on the lake (in summer), take a 4km zipline ride, or go skiing (in winter), and even embark on a thrilling snowmobile ride (more info here!).

And hey, if you’re lucky enough to be there in the fall, get ready to feast your eyes on the jaw-dropping colors of the local landscape! Mont-Tremblant is hands down one of the most gorgeous spots to witness nature’s vibrant autumn show. You can even book a helicopter flight over Mont-Tremblant and the Laurentides by clicking here!

Spend 1 night in Mont-Tremblant.

Where to stay in Mont-Tremblant

• Auberge Manitonga Mont-Tremblant: This cozy youth hostel is only a 5-minute drive from Mont-Tremblant village and a 10-minute bus ride. Dormitory bed from €30 per night. Strong points: Great value for money, nearby lake, warm welcome, and pleasant surroundings. A fantastic budget-friendly choice in Mont-Tremblant!
• Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Mont Tremblant: Located a 5-minute drive from the village center. Spacious and inviting double rooms from €100 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: Indoor pool, room size and comfort, free parking, friendly staff. It’s my favorite for its value for money in Mont-Tremblant!
• Château Beauvallon: Situated 10 min away from Mont-Tremblant. Well-equipped suite with balcony and kitchenette from €125 per night. Strong points: Indoor and heated outdoor pools, tranquility, shuttle service to Mont-Tremblant.
• Le Grand Lodge Mont-Tremblant: This hotel is located on the shores of Lake Ouimet.
  Comfortable and spacious double rooms from €170 per night, breakfast at €17. Strong points: Stunning lake views, location, indoor pool, spa, the all-wood hotel style with fireplace in the rooms.
• Fairmont Tremblant Hotel: This luxury hotel is nestled at the foot of Mont-Tremblant, right next door to the pedestrian village. Comfy double rooms starting at €300 per night, with breakfast for €30. Strong points: all the perks of a 5*, the location, heated pools, top-notch service, stunning facilities. The best hotel in Mont-Tremblant for a luxury stay!

6) La Mauricie National Park (2 days)

Just a quick 3-hour trip from Mont-Tremblant lands you in La Mauricie National Park. It’s the next stage of your action-packed month-long Canadian adventure!

Here, you’ll get to delve into a host of activities depending on the season:

• Foot walks / Hiking
• Canoeing on the lake
• Skiing or snowshoeing in winter
• Dog sledding
• Snowmobiling

And make sure you don’t miss out on the Waber Falls, a delightful sight that awaits you after a scenic 4 km canoe ride followed by a 4 km walk.

All the info you need is over on the official website.

Spend two nights near the park.

Staying at La Mauricie National Park

For camping enthusiasts, the park offers large equipped tents both in winter (wood stove) and summer. Common areas are available for cooking and cleaning up. You’ll find more info right here.

And for those who prefer a bit more comfort, here are the best accommodations near the park.

• Trapper’s Inn Refuge: Located at the park’s entrance. Double room from €80. Strong points: location, warm welcome.
• Gîte aux Traditions: Located on the main street of St-Jean des Piles, just 5km from the park. Double room from €85 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: location, lovely hosts, hearty and delicious homemade breakfast, tips for activities in the park.
• Hotel Marineau Shawinigan: Located 15 km from the national park. Double room from €85, breakfast included. Strong points: cleanliness, comfy beds, good breakfast.
• Auberge motel drakkar: Located in Shawinigan. Spacious double room from €100 per night. Strong points: good breakfast, welcoming owner, quietness.

7) Lac Saint-Jean (2 day)

Head a bit further north of Quebec up to Lac Saint-Jean, a leisurely 3h45 journey from Mauricie.

Allocate your morning for travel and keep the afternoon free to explore the incredible Saint-Félicien Wild Zoo. This is not your typical zoo experience, as you’ll embark on a unique adventure aboard a small caged train while the animals roam freely aroud you! Prepare to get up close and personal with magnificent creatures such as bison, bears, wolves, and moose. It’s the perfect outing for a family vacation in Canada.

For zoo hours and prices, check out the official website.

The next day, while you’re still around Lac St-Jean, you might want to visit the Native Museum of Mashteuiatsh and then the historic village of Val-Jabert which authentically recreates a 1920s Quebecois village complete with its historic buildings, shops, and costumed characters.

More details on the official website.

While in the Lac Saint-Jean area, you’ll find a plethora of incredibly cool activities to try out depending on the season (click on the orange links to book):

• Ice fishing
• A cruise on Lac Saint-Jean
• Black bear watching at Lac Saint-Jean (completely safe!).

Staying at Lac St-Jean

• Auberge Lac Saint-Jean: Located on the shores of the lake, a 12-minute walk from the beach. Dormitory bed from €20 per night. Strong points: tranquil location, very pleasant and clean communal area, comfortable bed.
• Maison Zacharie: Located in Desbiens, by the lake. Large comfortable double room from €55 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: homely welcome, very beautiful area, good breakfast, a quiet and comfortable establishment.
• Motel L’Avantage: Located by the lake, about 8 km from the historic village of Val-Jalbert. Basic but clean double room from €65 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: access to a private beach, superb lake view, very friendly welcome.
• Chalets et Spa Lac St-Jean: A 6-minute drive from the historic village and 40 minutes from the zoo. Cozy fully equipped loft with kitchenette and terrace from €100 per night. Strong points: nice view, large apartment, direct access to the beach, geographical location. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
• Hotel historique de Val-Jalbert: Located in Chambord in a completely renovated 1920s building. Modern, comfortable and cozy double room from €200 per night, breakfast included and you can even enjoy dinner for that price! Access to the historic village is also included. Strong points: the ambiance, activities offered, welcoming staff, excellent restaurant, room decor. The best choice for a high-end hotel in Lac Saint-Jean.

 

8) Fjord-du-Saguenay (2 days)

The next leg of your one-month Canadian journey takes you to the Saguenay fjord, in “Fjord-du-Saguenay” county as the locals say, a 2-hour drive from the lake.

During these two days, I strongly recommend you check out:

• The village of Anse St-Jean, which boasts stunning fjord views and is ranked among the most beautiful villages in Quebec.
• The village of Sainte-Rose-du-Nord for its location in a valley surrounded by mountains.

Also, you’ll want to try:

• Hiking: the Statue trail is a must-do (7 km round trip).
• A boat ride on the fjord
• Sea kayaking for a shot at spotting whales and belugas. For more details on this activity, click here!
• Ice fishing to catch your fish from a hole drilled in the ice
• Snowshoeing
• Nordic skiing in Saguenay
• A kayaking trip on the Saguenay fjord.

Staying at the Saguenay fjord

• Auberge du dimanche: The establishment is located in the town of Rivière-Éternité, very close to the fjord. Nice and spacious double room starting from €70 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the setting and the tranquility, comfortable bedding, impeccable cleanliness. It’s my favorite for its value for money, I really recommend you stay 2 nights.
• Chalets sur le Fjord: Located in l’Anse Saint-Jean, ranked among the most beautiful villages in Quebec. Apartment or studio with kitchenette from €80 per night. Strong points: the magnificent setting with a view of the fjord, the comfortable and modern apartments, the hot tub.
• Lodge des Bois: Located in Saint-Félix-d’Otis, by the lake. Cabin in the middle of the forest with private access to the lake. The lodge is fully equipped, the decor is modern, and it has a terrace and a barbecue. The place is very quiet and the view is magnificent. From €100 per night + €30 for cleaning. I highly recommend it for a stay immersed in the heart of Canadian nature! Don’t hesitate for long, there’s only one!
• Le 30 de Vébron: Apartment located in the pretty village of l’Anse Saint-Jean. This 250m² apartment can accommodate up to 7 people for €160 per night. It’s well equipped, very beautiful, and located in a pleasant setting. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with family or for a group of friends.

9) Tadoussac (1 day)

Visiting Tadoussac is all about one thrilling experience: whale watching in their natural habitat!

Departures for cruises are in Tadoussac, 2 hours’ drive from the fjord. I highly recommend you book this outing in advance as it’s super popular!

You’ll have a choice of several types of boats:

• A big boat trip of around 3 hours.

Book by clicking on the button below:

• A zodiac excursion of approximately 2h30 that lets you get really close to the whales!

Book this trip directly with the button below:

Spend a night in Tadoussac.

Where to stay in Tadoussac

• Motel de l’Anse à l’Eau: Located in Tadoussac. Double rooms from €100 per night. Strong points: location, friendly staff, free parking, cleanliness.
• Hotel le Beluga: Located in Tadoussac. Spacious and bright double room starting from €130 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: geographical location, friendly staff, comfortable rooms, hearty and delicious breakfast.
• Auberge la Tanière: Located 8km from Tadoussac, on the shores of Lac Boulanger. Warm and comfortable double room starting from €150 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the superb view, tranquility, location, excellent reception.
• Hotel Tadoussac: The hotel overlooks Tadoussac bay and the Saguenay fjord. Double room starting from €160 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: watch whales while you have breakfast, the splendid setting, location, outdoor pool.

10) Gaspésie National Park (3 days)

For the 10th stage of this one-month Canadian road trip, I suggest spending the next 3 days in Gaspésie National Park. Getting there from Tadoussac:

• Drive to the village of Les Escoumins: a 30-minute drive north.
• Take the ferry to Trois Pistoles: a 90-minute crossing. Find schedules and rates on this website.
• Take a 3-hour car ride to the park.

Stay the night near Sainte-Anne-des-Monts. Gaspésie National Park is the perfect place for hiking, canoeing or trying your hand at fishing. So that’s the plan for the next two days! Spend two more nights near the park.

Where to stay in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts

• Motel Manoir sur Mer: Located in Sainte-Anne, right by the Saint-Laurent River. Spacious and comfortable double rooms starting from €90 per night. Strong points: the riverside location and direct access to it from the terrace, the view.
• Auberge Seigneurie des Monts: Located in Sainte-Anne, 20 minutes from Gaspésie National Park. Cozy double rooms with comfortable bedding starting from €110 per night. Strong points: warm welcome, tasty breakfast, river views.
• Hôtel & Cie: Centrally located. Spacious and very comfortable rooms from €110 per night. Strong points: location for visiting the national park, super comfy beds, good hotel restaurant.
• Gîte du Mont-Albert – Sepaq: Located right inside the national park. Very spacious, well-appointed double rooms starting from €150 per night. Strong points: mountain location, right in the heart of the park, overall hotel ambiance, peace and quiet, swimming pool, sauna. It’s our favorite for its geographical location!

11) Percé (2 days)

Today, it’s time to hit the road again, but not just any road. I suggest you take Route 132, rated one of Canada’s most scenic drives.

After about 2h40, you’ll arrive at Forillon National Park renowned for its dramatic cliffs. Make a stop at Cap-des-Rosiers and head over to Cap-Bon-Ami, the best place to view them. From there, you can walk a section of the cape.

Next, drive to the town of Percé (1h10), the easternmost point of the Gaspé Peninsula, otherwise know as “Gaspésie”. The place is famous for its pierced rock formation, a provincial symbol.

Spend the night in Percé.

The next day, don’t miss the chance to explore Bonaventure Island and admire the majestic northern gannets that inhabit the area.

Spend a second night in Percé.

Where to stay in Percé

• Au pic de l’Aurore Motel-Chalets: Located in Percé, with views of the pierced rock. Room or fully equipped cottage with kitchenette starting from €75. Strong points: the sea view, barbecues and picnic tables provided, the tranquillity.
• Hôtel Le Mirage: Located in Percé. Spacious room with stunning views of the rock from €100. Strong points: the setting, the surrounding landscape, the pool, the peace and the excellent breakfast.
• Hotel Les Trois Soeurs: Hotel located on the shores of the Golfe du Saint-Laurent (Gulf of St. Lawrence). Chambre spacieuse et claire avec vue sur la mer à partir de 100€. Strong points: direct access to the beach, outdoor facilities, ideal location for the Bonaventure Island ferry, excellent restaurant. My favorite for its value for money!
• Hôtel La Côte Surprise: Located just outside Percé. Double room with large bay window and panoramic view of the local wonder from 130€. Strong points: calm, comfortable beds, location.

12) Chaleur Bay (1 day)

Today, keep on cruising down Route 132 all the way to Chaleur Bay, about a 2.5-hour drive.

Next, you’ll swing through the delightful villages of Saint-Godefroi, Hope, Bonaventure, New Richmond, and Carleton-sur-Mer.

That’s the spot I’d recommend you pull over for the night to split up your journey.

Chaleur Bay, with its very own microclimate, is famous for its long sandy beaches which get quite a crowd in the summer. You can take a breather or try out water activities (in season).

The sportier among you can even climb Mount Saint-Joseph or Mount Carleton for a breathtaking view over the bay.

Where to stay near Chaleur Bay:

• Hostellerie Baie Bleue: Located in Carleton, on the shores of Chaleur Bay. Well-equipped room with comfy bedding starting at €80. Strong points: the pool, the private beach, the view.
• Motel L’Abri: Located in Carleton-sur-Mer. Comfortable, clean rooms with kitchen or kitchenette starting at €110. Strong points: friendly welcome, comfort, proximity to the sea, and ability to cook your own meals.
• Manoir Belle Plage: Located in Carleton, overlooking Chaleur Bay. Very spacious and cozy rooms starting at €150. Strong points: hot tub in some rooms, very helpful staff, views of the mountains or the sea.

13) Bic National Park (2 days)

The final national park in this recommended month-long itinerary across Canada is Bic National Park.

To get there from Carleton, you once again need to follow the gorgeous Route 132.

Stuff to do in the park:

• Hiking on the 25 km of trails
• Cycling: 15 km of bike paths to explore
• Kayaking
• Wildlife spotting, especially seals
• In winter: snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, Nordic skiing, fat biking

Feel free to check the official park website for details on trails and activities.

Where to stay in Bic National Park:

• Motel du Bic: Located 900 meters from the park entrance. Comfortable and pleasant rooms starting at €80. Strong points: the homemade bread for breakfast and homemade pizzas in the evening, the cleanliness and the owners’ welcome.
• Gîte chez Rosemarie: This B&B offers rooms from €90, breakfast included. Strong points: excellent breakfast, owner’s friendliness, the view.
• L’Auberge du Mange Grenouille: Just a 2-min drive from Bic National Park. Unique and colorful rooms, with sea or garden view, from €90. Strong points: the hotel’s original setting, the hot tub, the gourmet cuisine served at the restaurant.

14) Quebec City (3 days)

Another major highlight of this 4-week Canadian journey: Quebec City. It would be a real shame to tour eastern Canada in a month without dropping by Quebec City.

Plan for roughly 3 hours of drive time from Bic National Park to reach Levis and take the ferry to Quebec City.

In the afternoon, you can explore:

• The Petit-Champlain district
• The Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec
• The Dufferin Terrace promenade, home to Quebec City’s iconic hotel: the Château Frontenac.

You have the option to discover the inside of the château by choosing a one-hour guided tour, which you can book by clicking the green button below:

Spend a night in Quebec City.

Stuff to see and do on day two:

• The Citadel of Quebec
• The Plains of Abraham
• The Parliament Building
• The Observatoire de la Capitale

An afternoon at Montmorency Falls Park They’re taller than Niagara Falls a truly astounding sight!

And for a real treat, why not take a cable car ride to the top, then cross the suspension bridge that spans the falls? You can now even book your cable car ticket in advance to avoid queueing:

Finally, on your third and final day in Quebec City, I recommend venturing out to explore the surrounding areas. Here are a few options to choose from:

• A tour of Île d’Orléans, a quaint and picturesque corner of rural Quebec
• A day at Village Vacances Valcartier, North America’s largest play center, which is great fun in winter (slides, snow rafting, skating) and summer (huge indoor and outdoor water parks).

To book your day at Valcartier, just click on the green button below:

If you opt for the second choice, you can even stay the night at Valcartier hotel, rather than going back to Quebec City.

Where to stay in Quebec City

• Quebec City International Hostel: This hostel is located in Old Quebec. Dormitory beds from €27. Strong points: the location, the cleanliness. The best choice for budget accommodation in Quebec City!
• Hotel Manoir Vieux-Quebec: Situated right next to the Château Frontenac. Modern and comfortable double room starting at 130€ per night. Strong points: the location, the view from the terrace, the comfy beds.
• Hotel Port-Royal: Located in Old Quebec. Double room equipped with a kitchenette starting from 170€. Strong points: the location for exploring Quebec City on foot, the friendly staff.
• Hotel Clarendon: Also located in Old Quebec, you’ll stay in a 19th-century building. Cosy double room from €170, breakfast for €22. Strong points: the very comfortable beds, the central location, the views from certain rooms.
• Le Capitole Hotel: Located in Old Quebec. Superb tastefully decorated room starting from €290 per night. Strong points: the warm staff, the great location, the quality of service, the rooftop pool, the excellent breakfast. Our recommendation for a high-end stay in Quebec City!
• Château Frontenac: Why not spend a night in the world’s most photographed hotel? A unique experience and the chance to enjoy all the services and comforts of a luxury hotel: spa, pool, gourmet restaurants. A great way to treat yourself in Quebec, after all, it’s not every day you get to sleep at Château Frontenac!

15) Montreal (2 days)

Here we are at the final stop of this one-month tour of eastern Canada, I suggest you head back to Montreal to wrap up your vacation.

The city is a 3-hour drive from Quebec City.

For the afternoon itinerary in Montreal, take your pick:

• Climbing up the Olympic Stadium tower
• Visiting the Biodome
• Strolling in the Botanical Garden
• Shopping spree in the boutiques and malls of Saint Catherine Street
• Exploring Jean Drapeau Park

Stay the night in Montreal.

For more details on these Montreal activities, check out my article: The 33 Best things to do in Montreal.

And there you have it, your month-long Canadian adventure has come to an end! It’s time to head to Montreal airport to catch your flight home.

Spending 1 month in Canada: Visiting East and West

As you’ve seen, this itinerary focuses on eastern Canada.

But it’s totally possible to combine the east and the west for a 4-week Canadian adventure.

I would then suggest you combine the following 2 itineraries (click the orange links):

• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips for your 2 weeks in Quebec

If you’re planning to travel from the west to the east of Canada (or vice versa), you’ll need to catch a domestic flight. It’s the most convenient way to cover the vast distance between the two regions.

If you need any help planning your epic one month east/west trip to Canada, just drop a comment and I’ll be there to assist you. Don’t hesitate to reach out—I’ve got your back!

You’re traveling in Canada? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Canada: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!

• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!

• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec!

• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days

• Calgary: Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal: 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa: 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City: Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto: The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver: Top 25 places to visit and activities

• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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