Pre-Covid I began planning a trip to the above in October, and got some suggestions here and from other sources. Now I am rethinking a visit there in late April or May 2025, and I have made a general list of what I hope to see and/or do in each city. I hope for any comments on what I have selected. Anything I have missed? No specific itinerary so far, except Quebec City first.
Quebec City: Notre Dame Basilica, Ste. Anne de Beaupre church, Chateau Frontenac (for a drink or snack), the Plains of Abraham, Old Quebec City, Petit Champlain St., the Fortress Walls (Citadel?), a ferry ride to and from the city (for the view of Quebec), Ile d'Orleans (half-day), Royal 22nd Regiment band concert (?). I understand most of these things can be combined with some of the others as they wouldn't take a full day. I feel four full days would be the minimum. And are there some things outside the city (nearby) worth making a visit? And, of course, we intend to leisurely stroll around some of these places.
Montrea: (Our RT flight airport...Quebec City flights are way more expensive with fewer time options and the train between the two isn't a problem for us, so openjJaw not necessary.): Notre Dame Basilica, Parc de Mont Royal, Botanical Garden, Old Town Montreal, the Natl. Circus Academy, a Cirque de Soleil show, St. Joseph's Oratory, the Jean Talon Market (or similar.)
We don't do hikes or bike rides, so bus/tram/taxi/Lyft or Uber will suffice for those times we won't be walking. Background: native French-speaking hubby, adequate French for me, 81 and 82 at time of trip, good health but wonky backs. Happy to stop at cafes for coffee or aperitifs and people-watch. No real splurge dinners, but upscale once or twice and mid-range meals the rest of the time. Omnivores with no allergies so looking for a place where you might take a family.
Hope to find hotels or bed and breakfast US$200 or under per night and prefer elevators or ground floor or not too many steps.
Thanks for your thoughts and ideas!