Ontario & Québec Loop
A spectacular journey through Canada’s historic cities, lakes, and French-Canadian culture
This unforgettable circular journey through Ontario and Québec blends vibrant cities, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes into one seamless Canadian adventure. Beginning in Toronto, you’ll explore glittering skylines, lakeside neighbourhoods, and world-class attractions before tracing the shores of Lake Ontario toward Kingston and the stunning 1000 Islands region. From here, follow the mighty St Lawrence River into French-speaking Canada, where Montréal’s cosmopolitan energy and Québec City’s cobbled old town — a UNESCO World Heritage treasure — immerse you in centuries of culture, architecture, and culinary flair.
Turning westward, your road trip carries you into Canada’s capital, Ottawa, with its grand parliament buildings, riverside paths, and celebrated museums. Then comes a change of pace in the forests and lakes of Algonquin Provincial Park, a peaceful haven of wildlife and wilderness. Your finale brings you to the iconic Niagara Falls, where thundering water, charming wine-country towns, and spectacular viewpoints provide a majestic end to your journey. This is the perfect blend of city exploration, scenic driving, and natural wonder — a quintessential introduction to Eastern Canada.
Remember: We’re UK-based, and every holiday we create is fully flexible – you can add nights, upgrade hotels, or enhance your itinerary. We love designing tailor-made self-drive adventures just for you!
13 night self drive holiday from £2,599pp including flights, accommodation & car rental
Highlights
Cruise through the stunning 1000 Islands from historic Kingston.
Explore Montréal and Québec City’s charming French-Canadian culture and UNESCO-listed old towns.
Spot wildlife and wander forest trails in beautiful Algonquin Provincial Park.
Stay overlooking the thundering Horseshoe Falls at Niagara — Canada’s most iconic natural wonder.
Your itinerary
DAYS 1–2: Toronto
Skyscrapers, waterfront strolls, and world-class culture in Ontario’s capital
Start your Eastern Canada road trip with two nights in Toronto, a dynamic city where global culture meets lakefront living. Head up the CN Tower for breathtaking views, explore the galleries of the Royal Ontario Museum, or wander the historic Distillery District with its cobblestone streets and artisan boutiques. Visit the grand Casa Loma, browse Queen Street’s trendy shops, or stroll the Harbourfront with a view of the islands. With its buzzing food scene, vibrant neighbourhoods, and easy walkability, Toronto offers the perfect introduction to your journey through Ontario and Québec.
2 Nights in
Toronto, ON
Arrive &
Explore
DAYS 3–4: Kingston & 1000 Islands
Lakeside heritage, island cruises, and a gateway to Canada’s early history
Follow the shores of Lake Ontario through Prince Edward County, known for wineries and charming small towns, before arriving in historic Kingston. This former capital is home to Fort Henry, a UNESCO-designated National Historic Site offering guided tours and military demonstrations. Nearby Gananoque is the launching point for cruises through the 1000 Islands, a region of beautifully forested isles, lighthouses, and elegant summer homes scattered along the St Lawrence River. In the evening, explore Kingston’s limestone architecture, waterfront paths, and lively dining scene.
2 Nights in
Kingston, ON
165 miles
DAYS 5–6: Montréal
Old-world elegance meets cutting-edge culture in Québec’s largest city
Travel along the St Lawrence River into French-speaking Québec and the island city of Montréal. Explore the historic charm of Old Montréal, wander its cobblestone streets, and visit the magnificent Notre-Dame Basilica with its dramatic gilded interior. For sweeping views, walk or cycle up Mount Royal, the hill that gave the city its name. Montréal is also famed for its culinary flair — think bagels, smoked meats, patisseries, and a thriving café culture. Museums, festivals, markets, and colourful neighbourhoods make these two nights packed with possibilities.
2 Nights in
Montréal, QC
185 miles
DAYS 7–8: Québec City
UNESCO-listed Old Québec, riverside beauty, and French-Canadian heritage
Continue north to Québec City, one of North America’s oldest and most atmospheric destinations. Stop en route in Trois-Rivières to visit its historic basilica or riverside promenade. Once in Québec City, wander the fortified streets of Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where stone buildings, lively squares, and the iconic Château Frontenac create an almost European ambiance. Explore the Plains of Abraham, enjoy the boutiques of Petit-Champlain, or dine in bistros serving classic Québécois dishes. This is French Canada at its most enchanting.
2 Nights in
Québec City, QC
170 miles
DAYS 9–10: Ottawa
Canada’s capital of culture, museums, and historic waterways
Your journey turns west toward Ottawa, Canada’s handsome capital city. Stroll around Parliament Hill with its Gothic towers, explore the renowned Canadian Museum of History, or wander through the bustling ByWard Market filled with cafés, bakeries, and artisan stalls. A highlight is the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal, which transforms from a boating route in summer to the world’s largest skating rink in winter. Ottawa’s pedestrian-friendly centre makes it ideal for relaxing exploration, blending national landmarks with leafy parks and scenic waterways.
2 Nights in
Ottawa, ON
275 miles
DAY 11: Huntsville & Algonquin Park
Forest trails, wildlife encounters, and rugged wilderness at the edge of Algonquin
Head into Ontario’s cottage country for an overnight stay in Huntsville, your gateway to Algonquin Provincial Park — a vast wilderness of lakes, forests, and wildlife. Spend the afternoon hiking, canoeing, or simply enjoying the tranquil scenery where moose, beavers, loons, and even black bears roam. This region embodies quintessential Canadian nature and offers a peaceful contrast to the urban highlights earlier in your trip.
1 Night in
Huntsville, ON
215 miles
DAYS 12–13: Niagara Falls
Iconic waterfalls, wine country, and unforgettable viewpoints
Spend your final two nights at the legendary Niagara Falls, staying in a hotel overlooking the thunderous Horseshoe Falls — the most powerful and spectacular cascade on the Niagara River. Experience the mist up close on a Maid of the Mist (or Voyage to the Falls) cruise, walk the tunnels of Journey Behind the Falls, or explore the illuminated night views along the waterfront. For a slower pace, wander the elegant streets of Niagara-on-the-Lake, renowned for its wineries, heritage buildings, and boutique shops.
On your final morning, enjoy one last look at the Falls before driving 75 miles back to Toronto and boarding your overnight flight home — ending your Ontario & Québec adventure with unforgettable memories.
2 Nights in
Niagara Falls, ON
205 miles
June - mid Sept: Many lodgings and transport links are only open during the Summer. Amazing wildlife including bears, bald eagles, whales, sea otters and seals can be spotted.
Daytime temperatures are usually cool but very comfortabl, generally in the 15-20°C range and even into the high 20s. Days are long during the with July being the peak month.
You’ll need a connecting flght from the UK, probably via Seattle or Vancouver, we highly recommend a couple of days to explore the connecting city. Alaska is 8 or 9 hours behind the UK.
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Our team have travelled extensively across the USA & Canada to ensure that they can give first hand, unrivalled experience when discussing our holidays.
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