From Montreal to Quebec City along the King's Road

Why the route between Quebec and Montreal from Montreal is worth it

We have often driven the route between Quebec and Montreal from Montreal. As travel bloggers, we usually start in Montreal. As a tour guide, Monika often drove the shorter routes on the highway or on the south side of the St. Lawrence River. These two routes are fast, but far less interesting. Our tip is therefore: definitely allow two to three days for the route from Montreal to Quebec City. Also pay attention to the opening times of the sights along the way.

 

 

 

The most exciting route, however, follows the St. Lawrence River directly along the Kings Highway. Here, you'll see small villages and the picturesque town of Trois-Rivières. You'll enjoy repeated views of the river.

Historic buildings line the route, which was once the only land connection between Quebec and Montreal. You can take short detours along the way to see them.

This route allows you to stop often and explore the history of the region, making the journey more varied and exciting. The route along the Kings Highway is a must if you want to see more of the landscape and culture between Quebec and Montreal.

Trois-Rivières also has interesting sights and a beautiful old town. The St. Lawrence River accompanies you the whole way and offers many photo opportunities. So plan time for breaks in the small villages to experience the local culture. The historical buildings also give you an insight into the region's past.

This route is longer, but it is worth it. You will experience more of the beauty and history between Quebec and Montreal. We recommend that you drive this route at least once. This way you will discover many interesting places and learn more about the region.

 

 

From Montreal to Quebec City along the King's Road

Most travelers take the highway to get there as quickly as possible Montreal to get to Quebec City. However, they don't know what they're missing. There's an alternative to the monotonous highway drive, which requires at least a full day. Two days are better, though, if you want to take your time to see all the attractions along the way.

The King's Road runs directly along the northern shore of the St. Lawrence River, passing through idyllic villages and offering beautiful views of the river.

Map of the Kings Road from Montreal to Quebec City

 

This highway is also the oldest road connection from Montreal to Quebec City. Even when the French were the colonial masters here, they traveled along this road that connected the three most important cities in New France: Quebec City, Trois Rivieres and Montreal. Not only is there a varied route on this road, but you are also following historical traces.

Trois-Rivières, for example, is recommended as an overnight stop on the route. There are other sights there that are worth visiting.

It's best to leave Montreal on Rue Sherbrooke and then follow it towards Repentigny.

 

 

The Moulin Grenier in Repentigny

One of the first sights is the Moulin Grenier in Repentigny. This is an old mill from 1820, which can also be visited during the summer months. The old grinder still works today.

Moulin Grenier
912 Notre-Dame Street
Repentigny, Quebec J5Y 1C8
Canada

Opening times: The mill is open on weekends in summer. Exact dates you can find that here.

 

Churches along the route from Montreal to Quebec City

The road repeatedly leads through small villages with mighty churches, whose facades look out over the St. Lawrence River. Unlike in the English-influenced parts of Canada, the churches here stand out. Their pointed church towers dominate the village landscape of many of the towns we come across along the way.

 

 

Along the St. Lawrence River from Montreal to Quebec City

On the way there are always views of the St. Lorenz, as the King's Road largely follows the north bank of the river. The south bank is usually as close as in this photo, but at Lac Saint Pierre the stream even widens into a lake.

Mansions on the St. Lawrence River from Montreal to Quebec City

The region is also popular as a residential area for Quebecers. On our journey from Montreal to Quebec City, we repeatedly drive past elegant residential buildings with large, almost park-like gardens and see the river behind them.

 

 

The Chapelle of Cuthbert in Berthierville

The route from Montreal to Quebec City isn't just filled with large churches. The Chapelle des Cuthbert in Berthierville is the oldest Protestant chapel in Quebec, built on this site in 1762.

At that time, it was still called Chapelle St. Andre after the patron saint of Scotland. Today, however, it is owned by the government of Quebec and is a listed historic monument.

Cuthbert's Chapel
461 rue de Bienville
Berthierville, QC J0K 1A0
Canada

The Chapelle des Cuthert is open for events. Please check the current opening hours in advance.

 

 

 

The moulin seigneurial de Pointe-du-Lac

The Pointe-du-Lac mill dates back to 1765. Its grinding mechanism is still in operation today. In summer, you can watch the miller grinding flour.

If you have the time and inclination, you can even learn how to bake bread. Then you can take your homemade bread with you for a picnic on the banks of the St. Lawrence River or at the rest area in front of the mill. There are also hiking trails in the area that invite you to take a stroll.

Stately mill of Pointe-du-Lac
11930, rue Notre-Dame Ouest
Trois-Rivières (Qc) G9B 6X1
Canada

Opening hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 17 p.m., from the last Sunday in May to the last Sunday in October. Please check the current opening hours in advance.

 

 

The butcher's house of Niverville

In Trois-Rivières stands the Niverville Butcher's Mansion. It is the oldest building in the town and dates back to the time when the region was still under French rule. Today, it houses a museum where you can see how the bourgeoisie lived during that time.

Those who wish can also view the exhibition with an audio guide, which can be downloaded to their mobile phone on site. The tour lasts about an hour.

Manor Boucher de Niverville
168, rue Bonaventure
Trois-Rivières
(Quebec), G9A 2B1
Canada

Opening hours:

From the beginning of June to the beginning of September, daily from 10 a.m. to 17 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays in September from 10 a.m. to 17 p.m. Please check the current opening hours in advance.

 

 

The Ursulines Museum

If you take two days to drive from Montreal to Quebec City, you'll have time to visit the Ursuline Museum.

They were one of the religious orders dedicated to the education of early settlers and Native American Catholics in New France. They also supported the mother country, France, in settling the colony in North America.

Musée des Ursulines
734 rue des Ursulines,
Trois-Rivieres, QC G9A 5B5,
Canada

Opening hours:

Labor Day (1st Monday in September) through June 23:
Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 17 pm | Closed from 12:00 p.m. to 13:00 p.m

June 24 to Labor Day (1st Monday of September):
daily 10 a.m. to 18 p.m

Please check the current opening hours in advance.

 

 

 

The Sanctuary of Notre-Dame du Cap in Trois-Rivières

The Notre-Dame du Cap pilgrimage church in Trois-Rivières, also located on the King's Road between Montreal and Quebec City, is quite modern. It was only built in 1964. However, the original church, dating from 1720, still stands on this site.

Notre-Dame du Cap is the third-largest pilgrimage site in Quebec. Both churches are therefore worth seeing. Particularly impressive, however, is the new church, which Pope Paul VI elevated to the status of a minor basilica.

It has an unusual floor plan and beautiful stained-glass windows. Its size is also impressive, with a capacity of 1800 people.

Sanctuary of Notre-Dame du Cap
626 rue Notre Dame E,
Three Rivers, QC
G8T 4G9, Canada

Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 18 p.m. Please check the current opening hours in advance.

 

 

The old vicarage of Batiscan

This charming rectory was not only the home of the priest of Batiscan. This place also played a significant role in Québec's history.

Here, for example, French fur traders met their Native American suppliers and traded furs for European goods. Glass beads, as well as other goods, were popular with Native American hunters.

Even Samuel de Champlain, the founder of Quebec City, is said to have traded here. The area also features an educational trail leading to the river and a shop selling local handicrafts.

Presbytery of Batiscan
340 rue Principale,
Batiscan, QC G0X 1A0,
Canada

Opening hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 17 p.m., from the last Sunday in May to the last Sunday in October. Please check the current opening hours in advance.

 

 

The seigneurial domain of Sainte Anne

Madeleine de Verchères, the Lord of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Perade, once lived in this house. She was something like the mistress of the seigneury and determined the fate of the people there. But there are other people who made this house remarkable.

Elizabeth Hale, for example, was a 19th-century painter, as was Honoré Mercier, who had his second home here. Also worth seeing is the Church of Sainte-Anne and its crypt. It's especially beautiful here in summer, when the garden is in full bloom.

Domaine seigneurial de Sainte-Anne
910 rue Sainte Anne,
Sainte-Anne-de-la-Perade,
QC G0X 2J0,
Canada

Opening hours: 2nd Sunday in June to 1st Monday in September: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 17pm. Please check the current opening hours in advance.

 

 

The Deschambault-Grondines watermill

We finally come across a watermill in Deschambault-Grondines. It dates back to 1802 and now houses a small museum. This deals with the history of the mill and repeatedly presents handicraft exhibitions.

Moulin de la Chevrotiere
109 rue de Chavigny
Deschambault, QC G0A 1S0
Canada

Opening hours: The Moulin de la Chevrotiere is open during events. Please check the current opening hours in advance.

 

 

The Church of Cap Sante

This church is just representative of the numerous churches along this route. All of them are striking. They are large and tower over the villages in which they are located. Churches like this are definitely typical of the places along the King's route. It is worth seeing such a church from the inside.

 

 

The Marais-Léon-Provancher Nature Reserve

If you want to get a glimpse of the St. Lawrence River before it reaches Quebec City, you can take a walk along the riverbanks at the Marais-Léon-Provancher Marsh Nature Reserve.

Take your time and don't forget your camera and binoculars, as this is also a great place to watch birds.

 

 

The Montreal Quebec City itinerary offers spectacular views both in Indian summer and in winter. However, if you are planning your Montreal Quebec road trip, you should include different highlights depending on the season – Autumn leaves or winter festivals.

A road trip from Montreal to Québec City is worthwhile in the fall, for example, because of the Indian Summer and in February because of the Québec Winter Carnival.

Indian Summer – when autumn colors the landscape

A particularly magical time of year to plan your Montreal to Quebec City itinerary is definitely Indian Summer. From late September to mid-October, the forests along the St. Lawrence River transform into an explosion of gold, red, and orange hues.

Especially on the route between Montreal and Quebec City, there are spectacular photo opportunities: in the small villages, along the King's Road, on river banks and at viewpoints.

If you're planning your Montreal Quebec road trip during this time, you should consciously allow yourself a little more time: in the middle of the color change, every break is worth it.

We recommend stopping in Trois-Rivières and in nature reserves such as Marais-Léon-Provancher, where you can go hiking or birdwatching in the tranquil autumn light.

The small side roads that lead up to hills or viewpoints also contribute to unforgettable views in the Indian summer.

Tip: When planning your route, make sure you don't travel too late in October—the spectacular color magic quickly ends with the leaves falling. Plan a buffer in case weather or leaf coloring delays the road trip. The autumn atmosphere along your Montreal Quebec City route will definitely make the road trip particularly intense.

Indian Summer – Time planning and recommendations

Best time slots

The spectacular autumn colors typically unfold from late September to mid-October, depending on weather conditions and altitude.

In lower-lying areas (rivers, cities), the coloring often begins in the last week of September, while on hills or in northern sections of your road trip it begins in early October.

Therefore, plan your route so that you make as many stops as possible during this period—for example, between September 28 and October 10—to be flexible in responding to weather or colors.

Accommodation & stage tips in autumn

• In Trois-Rivières* (ad) and Maurice* (Advertisement): Small B&Bs or inns with a view of the water are ideal for capturing light moods in the late afternoon.
• In the countryside, e.g. near nature parks along the King's Road* (advertisement), a cabin or hut with a fireplace can offer a particularly atmospheric break.
• Make your reservations early, starting in August, as many accommodations in small towns are in high demand during the fall season.
• Consciously plan smaller daily stages: this gives you spontaneous space to stop at particularly colorful places or to fit in a hike.

Route information with a view to colors

If possible, plan your road trip so that you first travel in the south (in warmer, lower-lying regions) and then slowly head north or up into the higher ranges — this way you'll catch the fall foliage "in waves."

Use secondary roads that lead through forested areas—they are often more scenic than the main route and offer more viewpoints.

If you're planning your Montreal Quebec City itinerary during this time, be sure to build in some buffers: clouds, rain, and early cold snaps can shorten the coloring period.

 

 

Indian Summer Road Trip – October 2025

Optimal travel time: September 28 – October 10, 2025
Duration: 7 days
Theme: Nature, autumn colors, regional cuisine

Montreal Quebec City Itinerary (Indian Summer Edition)

Day 1-2: Montreal

Arrival in Montreal. Stroll through Mont Royal Park, where the maple trees glow in rich reds. Visit the Jean-Talon Market for regional produce.

Day 3: Montréal – Trois-Rivières (approx. 140 km, 1,5-2 hours)

Drive along the King's Road. Detour to the Parc de l'Île Saint-Quentin for photo opportunities in the autumn light.

Day 4: Mauricie Region

Half-day trip to the Parc National de la Mauricie, one of the best places for autumn hikes.

Day 5: Trois-Rivières – Québec City (approx. 130 km, 1,5 hours)

Continue to Québec City, stopping in small villages like Deschambault-Grondines, where the foliage is particularly picturesque.

Days 6-7: Quebec City

Exploring the Old Town in the autumn light. Taking a boat ride on the St. Lawrence River with views of the colorful forests.
Day trip to the Île d'Orléans for regional products (cider, cheese, pumpkin fields).

Tip: If you want to extend your Montreal Quebec road trip route, you can, for example, add the Gaspésie region – the autumn colours start turning even earlier there.

 

 

 

Winter events – Christmas markets, carnival & festive magic

The cold season brings a unique festive atmosphere along your Montreal-Quebec City itinerary. Particularly worthwhile are the Christmas markets in Montreal and Quebec City, as well as the famous Quebec Carnival, which takes place in the middle of winter.

In Montreal, squares like the Place d'Armes or Marché de Noël in the Quartier des Spectacles into atmospheric winter markets, with light decorations, handicrafts, mulled wine stands and cultural performances.

In Quebec City, the old town in winter is like something out of a fairytale: festively decorated streets, heated pavilions as well as the traditional Quebec Christmas Market invite you to an enjoyable winter break.

A highlight is the carnival in Québec (Quebec carnival), usually in February. It is one of the largest winter festivals in the world and features ice sculptures, torchlight processions, snow slides, parades, and traditional culinary events.

If you include this time of year in your Montreal Quebec road trip, you will experience a completely different side of this province.

If you're planning your Montreal to Quebec City itinerary during the winter months, be sure to plan flexibly: some road sections may be closed, and you should anticipate weather-related delays. In return, you'll experience the French-influenced Quebec in a romantic, snowy atmosphere – an experience that's not possible in summer.

Winter Road Trip – February 2026

Best time to travel: February 6–15, 2026 (Quebec Carnival)
Duration: 7 days
Theme: Winter festivals, culinary delights, snow adventures

Montreal Quebec City Itinerary (Winter & Carnival Edition)

Day 1-2: Montreal

Visit the Christmas and winter markets (Quartier des Spectacles, possibly extended until February). Stroll through the "Underground City" in frosty weather.

Day 3: Montréal – Trois-Rivières (approx. 1,5 hours)

Drive through winter landscapes. Visit the Musée Pop or the old town center with its illuminated decorations.

Day 4: Trois-Rivières – Québec City (approx. 1,5 hours)

Arrive in time for the start of Carnival. Visit the first ice sculptures and pavilions.

5th-6th Day: Quebec Winter Carnival

Participation in night parades (February 7 & 14), ice castles, and snow slides. Culinary highlights include poutine, tourtière, and maple syrup desserts.

Day 7: Québec City – Return journey

A final stroll through the old town in the snow. Shopping for souvenirs and regional specialties.

Tip: If you want to make your Montreal Quebec road trip even more intense in winter, plan additional days for a Dog sledding* (advertisement) or Snowshoe tours in Mont-Tremblant* (Advertisement).

 

 

Conclusion of this route from Montreal to Quebec Canada:

Our trips from Montreal to Quebec City were real highlights. We tested out the different routes and found that the Kings Highway has its own charm. If you're in a hurry, the highways are a good choice. They'll get you there quickly. But if you have time and want to enjoy the scenery, we definitely recommend the route along the St. Lawrence River.

Our own experience on the Chemin du Roy

For us, the drive along the Chemin du Roy was more than just a scenic route—it was like a journey through Quebec's history. On no other route between Montreal and Quebec City have we encountered so many impressive relics of the past. The old mills, churches, and historic mansions tell the story from the French colonial period to the present day. We were particularly impressed by how tangible Quebec's development from a small settlement to a major province becomes here.

Trois-Rivières and the small stops along the way

In Trois-Rivières, for example, you're immersed in colonial life: The Manoir Boucher de Niverville showed us how the upper class lived back then, while the Ursuline nuns in the museum of the same name explore a completely different aspect – education and faith. Even the short stops along the way, such as the Moulin Grenier or the Chapelle des Cuthbert, were real highlights for us. They showed us how important such buildings were for the communities on the St. Lawrence River.

Authentic history

What particularly struck us: No other route offers such an authentic experience of history. The Chemin du Roy connects not only places but also the various eras that have shaped Quebec. Each stop provided us with a new piece of the puzzle of the past – from the beginnings of French colonization through the period of British rule to modern-day Quebec.

Our tip: Take your time to stop at the small historic towns. You'll often discover small museums there or have conversations with locals who bring history to life. For us, this trip was a real highlight that had a lasting impact on our understanding of the region.

Information about the King's Road:

• Chemin du Roy (Wikipedia)
• The Chemin du Roy

 

 

 

Questions and answers about the route from Montreal to Quebec City:

How long does it take to drive from Montreal to Quebec City along the Kings Highway?

The drive along the Kings Highway takes about 4 to 5 hours without sightseeing or breaks. However, it depends on how often you stop for breaks or sightseeing. However, the drive only becomes interesting if you plan in hiking, sightseeing and breaks.

What sights are there along the route?

Along the route you will find many interesting places, including the city of Trois-Rivières, historic villages and impressive views of the St. Lawrence River.

Are there good rest areas or restaurants along the way?

Yes, there are many rest areas and restaurants along the route. In Trois-Rivières you will find numerous places to eat and in the smaller villages there are also cozy cafés and bistros.

Is the route well signposted?

The route is well signposted and easy to find. Simply follow the signs to the Chemin du Roy or the St. Lawrence River, and you'll reach your destination without any problems.

Can you plan overnight stays along the way?

Yes, there are many places to stay overnight along the route. In Trois-Rivières and the surrounding villages you will find cozy hotels and bed and breakfasts that are ideal for an overnight stay.

When is the best time to walk the Chemin du Roy (King's Road)?

The best time to travel is from late spring to autumn. The Indian summer, from late September to mid-October, is especially popular, when the forests along the route glow in vibrant reds and oranges. In summer, the towns come alive with festivals and open-air events, while winter offers a quiet yet romantic setting.

If you are traveling in the fall, you should book accommodation early – e.g. the Hotel Manoir Victoria in Quebec City on Booking* (advertisement) or charming B&Bs in Trois-Rivières* (Advertisement).

Can the route also be covered by bicycle or e-bike?

Yes, the Chemin du Roy is one of the most popular cycling routes in Quebec. Sections of the trail are specially signposted, offering safe sections for cyclists. The tour is particularly scenic in spring and fall. For added comfort, e-bikes are also available for rental, either in Montreal or Quebec City.

If you want to take a cycling break along the way, you can combine the route flexibly – with overnight stays in bicycle-friendly hotels such as the Hotel Oui GO! in Trois-Rivières with Booking* (Advertisement).

What about winter conditions and snow removal on the route?

In winter, the Chemin du Roy is regularly cleared, as it is a major connecting road between Montreal and Quebec City. However, you should expect longer travel times in snowfall. A rental car with winter tires or four-wheel drive is recommended. Central accommodations are ideal for winter, allowing you to reach markets and events on foot, such as the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City with Booking* (Advertisement).

Which car rental companies are recommended along this route?

Well-known providers such as Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and Alamo have branches in Montreal and Quebec City. A particularly convenient feature: Many offer one-way rentals, so you only have to drive the route in one direction. DiscoverCars* (advertisement) or similar comparison portals you can compare prices and book your vehicle directly online.

Are there guided day tours along the route?

Yes, if you don't want to drive yourself, you can book guided tours. From Montreal, there are day trips to Trois-Rivières or directly to Québec City. Guided culinary tours or historical tours are particularly popular. We recommend, for example, a day trip tour from Montréal to Québec City at GetYourGuide* (Advertisement).

What are the road conditions on the Chemin du Roy?

The route is almost entirely paved and in good condition. Away from the main road, you'll find small side roads, some of which are narrower but easily accessible for regular cars. Those traveling with a campervan can also take the route – rest areas are available. An ideal stopover for campers is Trois-Rivières, where there are campsites and hotels such as the Delta Hotels by Marriott Trois-Rivieres on Booking* (advertisement) is available.

 

 

 

 

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Travel Arrangements:

Parking at the airport

Here you can reserve your parking space at the airport before your outbound flight.

Getting to King's Road from Montreal to Quebec City:

Compare and book flights here*. (Advertisement) Both Montreal Both Quebec City and Quebec City have an international airport, with direct flights from Germany and other European countries. From there, the best way to continue your journey is by rental car.

rental car:

Cheap car hire - book quickly and easily!

From Montreal to Quebec City by RV:

Book your motorhome here.

Hotels from Montreal to Quebec City:

Accommodations in and around Quebec * (advertisement) you can book, for example, through our partner booking.com.

If you book through one of these offers, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.

 

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• The Cabot Trail Nova Scotia
• Never be speechless again: Your survival guide to the Quebec language
• Hotels in Downtown Boston MA
• A weekend in Paris - Advice from a local
• Canada travel tips East for connoisseurs

 

Source from Montreal to Quebec City: On-site research with support from Bonjour Quebec, for which we definitely thank you. However, our opinions remain our own.

Text from Montreal to Quebec City: © Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos: Copyright Monika Fuchs as well as TravelWorldOnline, Wikimedia Commons and Unsplash
Video: Copyright Petar Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline

What do you prefer? A leisurely drive along a riverside road like this one, or a fast ride on the highway instead?