Compare Quebec in Depth with the Gaspe Peninsula by Globus vs Best of Eastern Canada & USA 2022 Small Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1: ARRIVE IN MONTRÉAL, QUÉBEC

Welcome to Montréal! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.

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Day 2: MONTRÉAL

Magical Montréal After breakfast, enjoy sightseeing with a Local Guide. The rest of your day is free to explore this lively city on your own. Your Tour Director will be onsite to provide ideas for shopping, dining, and exploring. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM Explore the cultural capital of Canada where the traditional Québécois style is celebrated along its cobblestone streets and grand buildings in European flair. See the Basilique Notre-Dame with its stunning stained glass, the Plateau Mont-Royal and spectacular views of Vieux-Montréal.

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Day 3: MONTRÉAL–RIMOUSKI

Maritime Marvels Follow the historic Navigator’s Route along the St. Lawrence River into the Bas-Saint-Laurent region for an overnight stay in the maritime center of Rimouski. Free time this evening – perhaps take in the sunset over the St. Lawrence River or stroll through downtown. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORY & HERITAGE Explore historic towns and maritime ports as you trace the historic path of the Navigators’ Route - a 292-mile course along the southern half of the Saint Lawrence River through the beauty of the Quebec countryside and quaint Victorian villages.

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Day 4: RIMOUSKI–MIGUASHA NATIONAL PARK–CARLETON-SUR-MÉR

Sea Legends & Ancient Creatures Start your grand tour of the spectacular Gaspé Peninsula featuring panoramic views of the sea, beaches, and cliffs. Continue along the St. Lawrence River to Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic Site, home of the Empress of Ireland Museum, to learn about the transatlantic liner’s history and doomed fate. Travel through the Matapédia Valley for a guided visit to Miguasha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to the Carleton-sur-Mér. (Breakfast,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT NATURAL WONDERS Explore the magnificent natural world of Miguasha National Park where pre-historic fossil fish and plants tell the story of the origin of the first terrestrial vertebrates, 380 million years ago. , when strange creatures moved from water to land. The park's fossiliferous cliff reveals a world of fossil fish from the Devonian period known as the “Age of Fishes” for a fascinating look at ages of a natural world long past.

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Day 5: CARLETON-SUR-MÉR–BANC-DE-PÊCHE-DE-PASPÉBIAC NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE–PERCÉ

Shipbuilding, Seascapes & Strawberries After a morning at leisure, continue your adventure through the Gaspé Peninsula countryside to Ferme Bourdages Tradition Farm, the local experts in everything strawberries since 1821. Here, visit strawberry fields with sea views and discover the secrets behind the art of making strawberry wine and liqueurs before tasting them. Next, visit the Banc-de-Péche-de-Paspébiac National Historic Site. Later, continue to the seaside village of Percé. (Breakfast,Lunch)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS Visit the remarkable Banc-de-Péche-de-Paspébiac National Historic Site to explore the original buildings dating back to 1766, witness the Gaspésie fishing history, watch traditional shipbuilding, and net-mending demonstrations.

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Day 6: PERCÉ. EXCURSION TO BONAVENTURE ISLAND & PERCÉ ROCK NATIONAL PARKS

Peninsula Discoveries Today, discover the iconic gems of the Gaspé Peninsula. Take a scenic cruise around the famous Percé Rock, also known as the “Pierced Rock” and Bonaventure Island to observe the stunning seabird colony and marine wildlife that frequent the region. Visit [LF] Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island National Parks. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast,Dinner)

LOCAL FAVORITE
WILD & WONDERFUL Explore Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island National Parks, home to one of the largest migratory bird refuge in North America. Its colony of 116,000 northern gannets is the most accessible in the world. Wander the hiking trails or enjoy the heritage trail to learn about the rich natural, historic, and geological wonders of the island.

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Day 7: PERCÉ–FORILLON NATIONAL PARK–GRANDE VALLÉE-MATANE

Native Traditions Visit Forillon National Park, the official beginning to the International Appalachian Trail. The park is home to traditional fishing villages, pebble beaches and quiet coves. Follow the peninsula road to old Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse. Enjoy [LF] lunch at a local restaurant in the charming Grand Vallée area, home to quaint fishing communities. The catch-of-the day comes highly recommended! This afternoon’s drive provides some of the best scenery of the peninsula with soaring cliffs, lighthouses, and expansive views of the St. Lawrence River. Late afternoon arrival in Matane, the hub of Gaspé’s thriving shrimp industry. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITIONS The village of Grande-Vallée has an exceptional geographic location. Discover this picturesque village, tied to an ever present natural world. Nestled between sea and mountains, Grande-Vallée will surprise you with its grandiose panorama and excite your taste buds with local specialites served with an included lunch.

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Day 8: MATANE–QUÉBEC CITY

A Walk in the Garden Visit the famous [LF] Les Jardins De Métis, better known as the Reford Gardens. Continue your journey to romantic Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for being one of the most historic and best-preserved cities in North America. Tonight, explore Québec’s Parisian ambiance by visiting the shops in the Petit-Champlain district or enjoying the French inspired cuisine at one of the many restaurants. (Breakfast)

LOCAL FAVORITE
BEAUTIFUL BY NATURE Few gardens have been built under such adverse atmospheric conditions as the stunning Les Jardins De Métis. These thoughtfully designed gardens (also called Reford Gardens) were built from 1926 to 1958 by innovator and horticulturist Elsie Reford, who spent thirty years transforming a fishing camp on the Métis River into a vast 40-acre estate garden brimming with bold and innovative character. Stroll amid some 3,000 plant varieties, including the famous Himalayan blue poppy, as part of 15 gardens in a naturally beautiful botanical wonderland. Spend time exploring the many areas of the gardens, such as the Linear Garden, the Stream Garden, or Bird Garden specifically designed to attract many varieties of birds.

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Day 9: QUÉBEC CITY. EXCURSION TO THE SAGUENAY FJORD & CHARLÉVOIX REGION

Whale Tales & Traditional Tastes Travel along the north shore of the St. Lawrence River to the breathtaking Saguenay Fjord to embark on a [LF] whale-watching cruise in the heart of the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park. En route back to Québec City, stop in the Charlévoix region, known as a thriving culinary destination. Here, visit a family owned traditional [LF] fromagerie (cheese factory) with tasting. (Breakfast)

LOCAL FAVORITE
WILD BEAUTIES Embark on a fantastic adventure on the spectacular waters of Saguenay Fjord. Board your whale-watching cruise in the stunning Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, known for having the greatest variety of whale species on earth. On board, a naturalist guide will introduce you to the marine mammals of the area including the endangered species: the blue whale and the St. Lawrence beluga whale. Another favorite experience we share is a stop in the exquisite setting of the Charlévoix region to visit a family-owned fromagerie (cheese factory). Learn the art of cheese making with a tasting of traditional artisan cheeses.

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Day 10: QUÉBEC CITY

French-Canadian Treasures Tour the only walled city north of Mexico with a Local Guide. Tonight, travel to Ile D’Orléans to enjoy a delightful farewell dinner at a fine restaurant housed in a restored 17th-century flour mill. (Breakfast,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CITY SIGHTS Explore the beautiful city of Québec to see the Place d’Armes, the Laval Seminary, the star-plan Citadelle, and the Place Royale. Also see the Old-world houses crowding the narrow streets in Lower Town by the St. Lawrence River, and the historic Plains of Abraham in the French-founded city, port, and capital of Canada’s Québec province. One of the oldest cities in Canada— Québec City retains more than 400 years of tradition, architecture, and Old-World charm in the only remaining walled city in North America. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a romantic city of narrow cobblestone streets, stone buildings, fortifications, and rich French-Canadian culture and cuisine. Take in the city’s splendid views of the surrounding landscape and unique character, which prompted Charles Dickens to call it the “Gibraltar of North America.”

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Day 11: QUÉBEC CITY–MONTRÉAL

Safe travels until we meet again! Morning drive to Montréal. Your vacation ends at the Montréal Trudeau International Airport or the Montréal tour hotel for those with post-nights. Schedule departure flights from Montréal Trudeau International after 3:30 pm. Want to explore more in Montreal? Additional nights are available for purchase. (Breakfast)

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Day 1: Thrilling Toronto

Welcome to Toronto, a vibrant city on Lake Ontario, full of fine restaurants, bars and an eclectic mix of cultures. On arrival at Toronto International Airport, a transfer will take you to your hotel. You’ll meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner with wine at 18:00.

Day 2: Toronto and the Thundering Falls of Niagara Relaxed Start

Travel up University Avenue to see Queen's Park and the Parliament Buildings, before venturing on to spectacular Niagara Falls. Take in this great natural wonder up-close on a cruise to the base of the falls. Browse quaint Niagara-on-the-Lake before returning to Toronto.

Day 3: Kingston and Ottawa

Journey to historic Kingston, otherwise known as the Limestone City and view the old buildings, churches and fortifications, with many of them being constructed from limestone itself. Continue to the Canadian capital of Ottawa where you’ll join a Make Travel Matter® experience with the culinary experts of C’est Bon at the Just Food community farm.  You’ll learn new culinary skills and discover more about local cuisine. Ingredients include Canadian staples such as maple sugar, haskaps, labrador tea and wild flowers. End the experience with a delicious three-course dinner with wine, before heading back to your hotel.

Day 4: Canada's Capital to Montreal

Get ready for an exciting morning exploring Ottawa, with a tour of the city’s stately boulevards. Then, you'll join your Indigenous Cultural Ambassadors and experience a lively traditional Pow Wow dance. Join this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and learn about the Manitobah Mukluks Storyboot Project which aims to revive the traditional arts by creating partnerships with elders and artisans. Continue to the diverse metropolis of Montreal, which is in the French-speaking province of Quebec.

Day 5: Montreal, the Royal Mountain

Today you’ll join a Local Expert who will guide you around Old Montreal, the grand mansions of Mount Royal, and the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica. The rest of the day is free to enjoy as you please.

Day 6: Montmorency Falls Park to Quebec City Relaxed Start

Depart Montreal and head to Montmorency Falls today.Stop at a traditional Sugar Shack and learn how maple syrup is created and harvested.After lunch, continue onwards to Montmorency Falls Park where you will experience that natural wonder that towers 272 feet (83 metres) tall. Walk the full width of the falls on a suspension bridge, or if you're feeling adventurous, you can take the panoramic staircase down along the cliffside.Continue on to Quebec City.

Day 7: Quintessential Quebec Relaxed Start

Discover more of Quebec’s unique European charm with a Local Expert, who will guide you along the city’s quaint cobblestone streets. You'll see the Latin Quarter, Plains of Abraham, City Hall and Palace Royale. You'll also walk past the Citadel, which offers great view of the city and Château Frontenac. In the evening you’ll choose from a selection of top local restaurants on a Dine-Around Evening.

Day 8: Quebec to Bar Harbor

Bid 'Au Revoir' to Quebec City as you cross the U.S. border and travel toward Mount Desert Island on the Atlantic Coast. A tranquil getaway, this large island comes with freshwater lakes, rugged clifftops, forests and striking mountains. Make the most of the serene setting at your hotel, which is situated on the island itself.

Day 9: Explore Acadia National Park

Take in the natural beauty of Acadia National Park, with its dramatic rocky shoreline and rugged nautical charm. You'll witness amazing views of the park from the top of Cadillac Mountain, while guests wanting to explore on foot can join their Travel Director to view well-known spots such as Thunder Hole. You'll have time to explore Bar Harbor on your own. Stop for an ice cream or head to the bustling souvenir stores to stock up on some holiday treats. The evening is saved for a delectable Highlight Dinner with your new friends, as you feast on authentic Maine lobster, a local specialty and one that won't disappoint.

Day 10: Coastal New England to Boston

Follow the rocky Maine shoreline, stopping in picturesque Kennebunkport, a glitzy, New England resort town and the iconic home of the Bush family. The town has a number of fine, well-preserved mansions, many of which have been turned into charming inns.

Day 11: Boston, the Cradle of Liberty

Famous for its American Revolutionary war history, Boston is a place for keen history buffs. Join your Travel Director as they guide you along the Freedom Trail, a route that leads you to several historically significant sites, including the Old State House and the meeting house where the Boston Tea Party of 1773 was planned. The rest of your day is at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll to Downtown Crossing or historic Faneuil Hall. For foodies in search of the city's best street eats, head to Boston's North End. With its large Italian community, this part of town houses some of the best Italian bakeries in the city, as lines of shoppers circle the block to get their hands on fresh cannoli and other treats.

Day 12: A Bite of the Big Apple

Follow the bright lights to New York City. Choose to visit the Top of the Rock Observation Deck with stunning views of the New York skyline. Alternatively, take a scenic bike tour of Central Park and explore its iconic sights.Your hotel is in the heart of Midtown and a short, 10-minute walk from the United Nations Headquarters and just steps away from Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building.

Day 13: A Manhattan Masterpiece Relaxed Start

Explore the City that Never Sleeps with your Local Expert, before heading out on your own. If it's tranquillity you're after, relish the calm of Central Park, an expansive space designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.

Day 14: Liberty in Philadelphia and D.C.

Travel to Pennsylvania's largest city, Philadelphia, where the Liberty Bell first chimed and Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. Explore Independence National Historic Park and visit the Liberty Bell with your Travel Director. Journey to Washington, D.C., the nation's capital. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps join an optional Illuminations Tour in the evening before spending the night at the luxurious Fairmont Washington D.C. Georgetown.

Day 15: Washington, D.C. Sightseeing and Leisure Time

In the morning, immerse yourself on a sightseeing tour and delve into the proud heritage of a nation. View the White House, the striking Washington Monument, and sprawling National Mall. Reflect on the country's most turbulent days at the Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial. The rest of the day is at leisure. Join your Travel Director and fellow guests for a Celebration Dinner and toast to new friends and fantastic memories.

Day 16: Depart Washington, D.C.

A morning transfer at leisure will take you to Dulles International Airport or Reagan National Airport for your flight home. Alternatively, extend your stay at your own pleasure.