Compare Signature City Montreal by Road Scholar vs Best of Eastern Canada & USA 2022 Small Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1
Check-In, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Location: Montreal, Quebec Meal: D Hotel:  Holiday Inn Montreal Centreville Downtown
Activity note: Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Arrivals and transfers to the hotel in Montréal in the afternoon. Meet your group leader between 4:00 - 5;00 p.m. to pick up your program packet. If you arrive late, please ask for your packet at the front desk.

Dinner: Welcome dinner at the hotel.

Evening: We’ll begin our evening with an orientation session where we’ll get to know each other as well as review the up-to-date program schedule and any changes. We’ll go over important information as well as have time for questions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead. If you’d like to go out on your own, the hotel is close to the Metro (public transit system) and is within walking distance of Old Montréal, museums, and some of the finest restaurants in the city.

Day 2
Introductory Lecture, Old Montréal, Pointe-à-Callière
Location: Montreal, Quebec Meal: B,L,D Hotel: Holiday Inn Montreal Centreville Downtown

Activity note: Walking approximately 2 miles and standing, over about 3.5 hours; sidewalks, busy city streets, cobblestones and hills.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: We'll start the day with an introductory lecture on Montréal, with a focus on the culture of this world-class city. A short lesson on local French will provide tips and phrases to help us make our way in shops and restaurants. Armed with our new vocabulary, we'll hit the streets on a walking field trip through Old Montréal. With our expert guide, we'll learn about the city's history as we stroll narrow cobblestone streets lined with heritage buildings. We’ll pass through Marche Bonsecours, inaugurated in 1847- a wonderful example of the era’s neoclassical style - and stop at two of its beautiful squares - Place Jacques Cartier and Place d'Armes.

Lunch: At the Pointe-à-Callière Museum café overlooking the Old Port.

Afternoon: Located in the heart of Old Montreal, across from the Grand Quai, the Pointe-à-Callière Museum is strategically situated at a site of human habitation for more than 1,000 years. Inaugurated for the 350th Anniversary of the City of Montréal in 1992, the museum sits atop the ruins of the original Fort Ville-Marie, built in 1642-43 by the French missionaries. The Pointe-à-Callière Museum showcases history and artifacts from the settlements of Indigenous Peoples to the present day. A museum expert will provide interpretation during our visit and will provide a summary of noteworthy events and notorious characters who have shaped the illustrious history of this World Heritage City.

Dinner: At a local restaurant.

Evening: Our dinner restaurant is a mainstay of Montreal's active jazz and blues scene. Enjoy a live music performance at the restaurant starting at 7 p.m.

Day 3
Jewish Cultural Exploration, Golden Square Mile, McGill
Location: Montreal, Quebec Meal: B,L,D Hotel: Holiday Inn Montreal Centreville Downtown

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking approximately 2 miles, some standing, about 3 hours; pavement, busy sidewalks.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: This morning we are headed by coach to the historical neighborhoods of Mile End and Plateau for a cultural and culinary learning adventure. Our guide, a researcher on important culinary contributions made by Montreal’s Jewish community, will tell us about her findings and then we’ll head out, walking streets frequented by cultural icons like Mordechai Richler and Leonard Cohen, to visit some favorite spots for tastings. We'll sample some of Montreal's iconic foods, including Schwartz's smoked meat sandwich, Fairmount bagels, and the Wilensky special. Come with a healthy appetite!

Lunch: We'll enjoy our Jewish delights at the Museum of Jewish Montreal.

Afternoon: We will begin the afternoon with a presentation by a local historian, during which we will learn about Quebec, and its evolving place in Canada. After our lecture, an expert from the McCord Museum will join us for an exploration of the McGill University campus and the surrounding neighborhood, known as the Golden Square Mile. Established in 1821 by royal charter, McGill is the home of Canada’s oldest law and medical schools and has long been a central part of English Canada’s presence in Quebec. This district was long the center of prestige and power in Montreal, and by extension, Canada. We’ll hear about the district’s transformations over the years, see some of its mansions and see photographs that will take us into the homes and lives of some of the most influential individuals of 19th and 20th-century Montreal.

Dinner: Dinner at a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 4
Montréal Coach Exploration, Musée National des Beaux Arts
Location: Montreal, Quebec Meal: B,L Hotel: Holiday Inn Montreal Centreville Downtown

Activity note: Getting on/off motorcoach. Walking up to 1 mile, some standing at museum, about 2 hours.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We begin the morning with a coach exploration the city. As we journey through Montréal, we will discover iconic Montréal landmarks such as "The Big O" Olympic Stadium, Habitat 67, the Plateau neighbourhood, and the mountain that gives the city its name, Mont Royal. Next, we will visit Musée National des Beaux Arts du Québec which features over 22,000 selections, including Canadian and international early, figurative, modernist and abstract art. We will explore its outstanding Québécois, Indigenous and Canadian art collections with an experienced docent. There will be some time to explore independently.

Lunch: At the cafè at the museum.

Afternoon: Free Time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Dinner: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 5
Notre-Dame Basilica, Château Ramezay
Location: Montreal, Quebec Meal: B,L,D Hotel: Holiday Inn Montreal Centreville Downtown

Activity note: Walking up to 2.5 miles, some standing, approximately 1.5 hours; pavement, cobblestone, busy streets, several stairs at the entrance of Notre-Dame Basilica.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: No Montreal experience is complete without seeing the magnificent Notre-Dame Basilica. This masterpiece of Gothic revival architecture is renowned for its interior, sculpted in pine and black walnut, paint and gold leaf. During our expert-led exploration, we’ll learn about the history of Notre Dame, and its great organ that was built in 1891 and has undergone several restorations. Then, we’ll enjoy a recital with Pierre Grandmaison, the esteemed titular organist of the Basilica since 1973.

Lunch: On own, or join the group leader at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: After lunch, we will take a short walk to Château Ramezay, one of the few vestiges of colonial New France open to the public. The Château Ramezay is on the list of 1001 places to see before you die – a list developed by a team of experts in collaboration with UNESCO. The Chateau was built in 1705 and has been a witness to many of the historical events in North America, with many historical figures, including the poet Émile Nelligan, Governor Lord Elgin and Benjamin Franklin, coming through its doors. We’ll learn more about this exemplary historic site and explore its French colonial garden with a museum expert.

Dinner: Farewell dinner at a well-known local restaurant in the Old Port.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 6
Program Concludes
Location: Montreal, Quebec Meal: B
Activity note: Hotel check-out by 12:00 Noon.

Breakfast: At the hotel. This concludes our program.

Morning: Independent departures after breakfast per individual plans. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!

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.