Faculty-Led: Historical French Canada

Daily Itinerary

You'll be picked up at the airport and driven to your hotel by motor coach.

Meet your Professional Program Manager who will accompany your group throughout the program.

Take a guided city tour of Montreal. You’ll start with a walk down St. Catherine Street through Montreal’s great shopping area and then you’ll head past McGill University. There, you’ll enter Montreal’s “Underground City.” You’ll exit near the financial district and Chinatown, and then you’ll continue to the Old City. There, you’ll see City Hall, Place Jacque Cartier, and the Old Port.

You'll have dinner at Casa Greque. Casa Grecque is tradition valued by Quebecers of every origin providing the perfect ambiance and setting for a pleasant dining experience.

You'll visit the Spanish Portuguese Synagogue, established in 1768, it is the oldest Synagogue in Canada. You'll tour the Synagogue if available.

You'll take a Jewish Walking Tour of Montreal. You’ll begin your tour in Mile End which has been a center of the Yiddish language for nearly a century, first with its left-leaning Jewish schools, libraries, and social clubs, and now with dozens of Hasidic synagogues, yeshivas, and storefronts. You'll end your tour in Outremont, where you'll find Hasidic owned kosher eateries and Yiddish bookstores.

Known as Montréal’s portal to its past, the Château Ramezay was built in the 18th century as a prestigious residence. It was the first building in Québec to be classified an historic monument. Relive more than 500 years of history through its numerous exhibits, its multimedia portrayals of historical figures (available in six languages) and its French colonial style garden.

You'll have dinner at Weinstein and Gavinos. Located in the heart of downtown Montreal on the famous Crescent Street, steps from the finest hotels, great shopping and even greater entertainment venues such as the Bell Center, Wienstein & Gavino's is bursting with energy seven days a week.

Visit Mount Royal Park and see fantastic views of the city from the Chalet. Inaugurated in 1876, the splendid Mount Royal Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the highly skilled designer behind New York's Central Park and many other major parks in the U.S.

Founded in 1904 by Saint Brother Andre (born Alfred Bessette, 1845-1937) of the Congregation of Holy Cross, Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal is the world’s largest sanctuary dedicated to Saint Joseph. Located in the heart of Montreal, in the lush and historic Mount Royal district, this internationally renowned pilgrimage destination is steeped in history and culture. In 2004, on the 100th anniversary of its founding, it was declared a National Historic Site by the Canadian Government.

You'll have free time in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) which has been preserved in much of its original state, with the oldest buildings dating back to the 1600's. Old Montreal is European in character. Cobblestone streets, a café culture and historic 17th and 18th century architecture all contribute to the quaint charm that is unique amongst cities in North America. You'll stroll down St. Paul, the oldest street in one of North America's oldest cities that runs through the heart of Montreal and have a moment to relax in Place Jacque Cartier, formerly a market, it is now one the city's main gathering places and entertainment sites.

You'll visit the Centre d’histoire de Montréal which aims to help Montrealers and visitors alike discover, understand and appreciate today’s city and its diverse heritage, by showing how the history of those who have lived and still live in Montreal has shaped the urban environment, left traces and defined the identity of the metropolis.

Dinner at Restaurant du Vieux Port. Situated directly on St. Paul Street in a beautiful, century-old structure. Inside, you’re greeted by old stone walls, wood floors, cozy fireplaces and an attentive staff.

You'll visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Canada's oldest and one of its most important art institutions. The museum was founded in 1860 and has been guided by a commitment to attract people from all walks of life. The museum has a large collection of decorative and ethnographic objects, 19th-century paintings, and Canadian paintings, prints and drawings, only a small fraction of which can be displayed at a time. It also hosts major traveling shows.

You'll visit the Underground City of Montreal. The name “the Underground City” refers to the vast network of pedestrian walkways below the city. There are 20 miles of connecting passageways beneath downtown, with the subway, commuter trains and buses also converging here. Approximately 500,000 people circulate daily on this network, where some 2,000 shops and restaurants, 10 major hotels, museums, theaters and universities can be found.

You'll take a self guided tour of the Musée d’art Contemporain de Montréal which stands right next to Place des Festivals, in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles and on the Place des Arts site. It is part of Canada’s only cultural complex devoted to both the performing and visual arts. The Musée is dedicated exclusively to contemporary art and offers a varied program ranging from presentations of its Permanent Collection to temporary exhibitions of works by Québec, Canadian and international artists. The Permanent Collection comprises nearly 7,600 works, including the largest collection of art by Paul-Émile Borduas.

You'll have dinner at Fourquet Fourchette. The Fourquet Fourchette is an invitation to immerse yourself in the lost era of New France and its native culture. Allow our traditional décor and staff to take you back in time.

You'll have free time in the morning before attending optional Mass at Notre Dame Basilica at 11:00am.  This mass is accompanied by the organ and the Notre-Dame Basilica Choir. (Alternate morning activity can be arranged.)

You'll take a guided tour of the magnificent Notre Dame Basilica. Montreal's oldest Catholic church, built in 1656, is known for its intricately designed interior, which includes stained glass chronicling the history of the city.

You'll take a self guided tour of Musee McCord. For over 90 years, the museum has been collecting objects, images and documents that are tangible witnesses to the people, places and events that have marked Canada’s history over three centuries. The initial nucleus of the collections reflected David Ross McCord’s interest in First Peoples and key events in Canada’s past. The collections have grown to focus more specifically on Montreal, once heralded as the economic and cultural centre of the country. The collections document Montreal’s pivotal role in Canada’s development from the early 18th century through the 21st, and the social and cultural dimensions of the lives of those connected to the city.

You'll dine at Le Petit Chateua. Le Petit Château is located just a few steps from the Château Frontenac. Its contemporary décor invites you in to sample a wide selection of crêpes, fondues and other traditional delights.

You'll visit the Marguerite Bourgeoys Museum, this 300-year-old chapel and very captivating history museum connected to it will amaze you. In the company of a guide, you will learn about the truly exceptional life of a woman of action, Marguerite Bourgeoys, and about the early settlers who built Montreal. You'll visit many exhibition rooms that will lead you from the stone crypt to the very top of the tower where a spectacular view of Old Montreal and the Old Port awaits you.

You'll enjoy free time to shop, eat and explore along Rue St. Denis. This avenue is lined with attractive town houses, today occupied by restaurants, art galleries and fashionable stores. The area became known as Montreal's Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) when several institutions of higher education were established here during the early 20th century. The houses were divided into smaller apartments to accommodate the many students attending these institutions.

You'll take a ride to the top of the Olympic Park Tower, the tallest inclined tower in the world! Its 45-degree angle is awe-inspiring, especially when you consider that the Leaning Tower of Pisa’s tilt is only 5 degrees! From its summit, visitors can admire the entire Greater Montreal region, all the way up the St. Lawrence River valley. A breathtaking panorama, it has been awarded a three-star rating—the highest available—by the renowned Michelin Guide!

You'll have dinner at Restaurant Le Bourlingueur.

You'll visit a Mosque in Montreal. You will tour the Mosque, if available.

You'll visit Muslim Community of Quebec and have a religion discussion if available.

You'll have free time.

You'll visit Pointe-A-Calliere Archaeological Museum. A recognized national historical and archaeological site, this museum leads visitors through centuries of history, from the times when Natives camped here to the present day.

You'll have dinner at Cabane a Pierre. This log cabin structure will put you in mind of the logging camps of long ago. The atmosphere is festive any time of the year with succulent country meals and entertainment provided by professional chansonniers and musicians.

You'll take VIA Rail from Montreal to Quebec City.

Take a guided walking tour in Quebec City. Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America. The ramparts surrounding Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) are the only fortified city walls remaining in the Americas north of Mexico. Your tour will begin with a stop at Place d'Armes (Armoury Square), right at the heart of the Old Town. You'll also see the Dufferin Terrace with its breathtaking view of surrounding landscapes, the St-Lawrence River and Quebec City’s Citadel. Next you'll see the famous Chateau Frontenac and then you'll continue on the charming streets and alleys of the Old Town. You'll have a chance to explore the walls of the old city the Lower Town and the Citadel near the Plains of Abraham.

You'll arrive at your hotel and check in.

You will have dinner.

Today you’ll see Montmorency Falls. This spectacular waterfall is almost 100 feet higher than Niagara Falls and is one of the most impressive waterfalls in North America. You’ll marvel at the magnificent view from the cable car as you glide by.

You'll visit the Basilica, a shrine dedicated to Sainte Anne. Even though little is known about Saint Anne, the mere fact of being the mother of Mary and the grandmother of Jesus is enough for the Church’s recognition and veneration since time immemorial. The Basilica is built in Romanesque Revival style and is in the shape of a cross. Many people from around the world make a pilgrimage to this location every year.

You will have dinner.

You'll visit the Musee du Fort which presents an original and unique sound and light show on the military history of Quebec City. This is an educational and entertaining experience for all.

You'll have free time far from the hustle and bustle of large shopping centers, Quartier Petit Champlain has many boutiques, artists, shows, cafés and restaurants.

You'll visit the Musée de la civilisation which explores the different aspects of human reality with its unique approach of combining enchantment, knowledge and reflection. Through its thematic and multidisciplinary approaches, Musée de la civilisation is a place where the individual, society and the human race meet, and where the networks that unite them materialize. Visitors of all ages are transported - to the great cities of the world and fascinating ancient civilisations, into significant sociocultural movements and the heart of Québec society.

You'll visit the Musée des Ursulines de Québec where you'll explore the exhibitions and discover more specifically certain aspects of the history and heritage of the Ursulines of Quebec.

You will have dinner.

You will visit the Plains of Abraham. Known for the clash of supremacy between the French and British empires, where it set the scene of the 1759 conquest. This would later decide the fate of North America. It is today known as a city park of outstanding value with over a hundred and three hectares of grassy meadow. It is also the one of the sites that hosts the annual Winter Carnival festivities.

You'll take a guided tours of the Citadelle that reveals over 300 years of history. During your visit, you'll explore this fortress—an active garrison of the Royal 22e Régiment—and delve deeply into this National Historic Site with its impressive architecture and spectacular views of the city and St. Lawrence River.

You'll visit one of the most charming areas of Quebec City, the Old Port (Vieux-Port) was once a bustling commercial hub for European ships bringing supplies and settlers to the new colony. Today, it’s still bustling, but now the port reverberates with visitors wandering the quays, enjoying picturesque views of the Old City, the St. Lawrence River, and the Laurentian Mountains.

You will have dinner at a local restaurant.

You'll have the option to attend a Mass at Notre Dame in Quebec City. Situated in the very heart of Old Quebec, the Basilica-Cathedral Notre-Dame de Quebec welcomes numerous faithful visitors year round. It was erected in 1647 on the very site of the first chapel constructed by Samuel de Champlain in 1633. Following the nomination of Francois de Laval as the first Bishop of Quebec, Notre-Dame de Quebec was progressively elevated to the rank of metropolitan church in 1844. Then it was named a minor basilica at the bicentennial of the Diocese of Quebec in 1874 and further on it was elevated to the rank of Primate church in 1956. This exceptional site, declared national Site of Canada in 1984, represents a spiritual and religious patrimony of great worth.

A few steps from the Holy Door, Musée de l'Amérique francophone traces the history of the Francophone culture in North America and abroad and its development until today. The exhibitions invite the public to discover the most beautiful religious heritage treasures from the SÉMINAIRE DE QUÉBEC collection. These exhibitions will help you understand the evolution of the Francophone culture, the international movements that have traversed it and in which it has participated, its development and its interdependence with other cultures.

You will have dinner a local restaurant.

You'll admire Québec City from its highest point: the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building. It's expansive windows offer spectacular views. Learn about historic Québec City through an interactive multimedia visit. Thanks to the latest technology, travelers will be immersed in the capital's rich past. The interior design is inspired by the year 1965, a pivotal moment in the life of Québec City.

You'll have free time to explore Old Québec. It is the only North American city to have preserved its ramparts, together with the numerous bastions, gates and defensive works which still surround Old Québec. The Upper Town, built on the cliff, has remained the religious and administrative centre, with its churches, convents and other monuments like the Dauphine Redoubt, the Citadel and Château Frontenac. Together with the Lower Town and its ancient districts, it forms an urban ensemble which is one of the best examples of a fortified colonial city.

You will have dinner at a local restaurant.

Time permitting, if you have a late afternoon flight, you'll take a guided tour of the Traditional Huron site "ONHOÜA CHETEKE", the most authentic recreation of a Quebec Indian village. You will have a unique opportunity to discover the history, the culture and the lifestyle of Hurons of the past and of today.

Your motor coach driver will return you to the airport for your flight back home.