Many travelers from the East Coast of the United States and from Ontario, Canada, love the convenience of a French Canadian holiday in Montreal. However, Montreal isn’t necessarily the best or only option for exploring Quebec this winter. A couple of hours outside of Montreal by car is picturesque Quebec City. This charming destination has everything travelers could want in a winter getaway, from exceptional cuisine to beautiful sites and rich historical attractions. Here’s why you should consider visiting it instead of Montreal this winter.

10 It’s More Romantic

Couples looking for a romantic getaway in Quebec will definitely prefer visiting Quebec City to Montreal. Quebec City has a small-town feeling that bustling Montreal cannot replicate. It’s got quaint streets, historic structures, boutique shops lining the sidewalks, and luxurious accommodation options. An evening roaming the streets in Quebec City with a loved one is the perfect environment for a winter wonderland proposal. For couples on a honeymoon or anniversary trip, go all out by booking a room with a hot tub on the balcony to stay warm while enjoying the whimsical snowy views and city lights at night.

9 It’s Not As Busy

Choosing Quebec City over Montreal for a winter adventure in Eastern Canada means a more peaceful experience. Although Montreal is lively and full of beautiful restaurants, nightlife, and attractions, Quebec City offers a more tranquil escape. While Montreal sees around 11 million tourists visiting the city annually, while Quebec City receives anywhere from 4 million to 5 million tourists per year.

Related: 10 Places You Can Visit In Montreal Without A Car

8 It’s Like Stepping Into A European City

Can’t afford the time off work or the airfare to take a trip overseas to Europe this holiday season? Quebec City offers North Americans the old-world charm of Prague, Amsterdam, or Paris but closer to home. This means more affordable prices on flights and, often, on accommodation as well. For a long weekend getaway, many Americans and Canadians will find it more convenient to hop on a short flight to Quebec City than fly across the Atlantic.

7 There Are Stunning Christmas Markets

European cities are known for their Christmas markets this time of year, and travelers who love this aspect of visiting Europe will thoroughly enjoy visiting Quebec City. It has tons of holiday markets running from November through December, and in the new year, there is a winter carnival as well. The German Christmas Market in Quebec City runs from November 24 to December 23, 2022. Kaléidoscopes, a festive event that is a cultural celebration of Old Quebec, takes place over a few days from December 27 to 31, 2022.

Related: This Is What Makes Montreal Such A Special Place To Be During The Holidays (It’s Not Just Snow)

6 It’s Got Amazing Historical Attractions

Montreal also boasts beautiful architecture, but history buffs will prefer a visit to Quebec City to see many of the province's top attractions all in one place. The historic district of the city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the only completely walled city north of Mexico.

The city also has historic sites like the Citadelle of Quebec, Château Frontenac, Saint-Louis Forts, and Châteaux National Historic Site. The city’s Parliament Building is home to Quebec's National Assembly. Other popular sites to visit include Monastère des Augustines and Cartier-Brébeuf Park.

5 The Streets Are Photogenic

Professional photographers and Instagram influencers alike flock to Quebec City for the natural beauty of its the streets in its historic district. Given that this part of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s no surprise that the streets are effortlessly romantic and visually pleasing. In particular, Rue du Petit Champlain features a narrow stone street lined with old buildings that is a dream for taking photos in any season.

4 It’s A Short Drive To Ile D’Orleans

Although Quebec City may offer fewer activities in its city center than Montreal, it boasts incredible day trip options, such as Ile D’Orleans, just a short drive away. Visit this peaceful, sleepy island town in the St. Lawrence River for a relaxing day learning about the origins of French Canadians in the region. There are plenty of boutique shops to visit, farms where travelers can taste jams, ciders, or wines, and bed and breakfasts for those who want to spend a night here.

3 It’s A Walkable City

There’s a reason that walking tours are one of the most popular things to do in Quebec City. Travelers looking to save on transportation costs during a trip to the province of Quebec will find Quebec City much more affordable on this front than Montreal. While Montreal requires the use of the metro system to get around, Quebec City is extremely walkable. Especially when exploring the historic district, no transit pass is necessary to purchase. Travelers can get to the main attractions and areas they’ll want to visit on foot.

2 Nature Escapes Are Close By

Quebec City is the perfect combination of a charming city and Canada’s natural beauty. Nearby the city is Montmorency Falls. The massive waterfall is only 15 minutes outside of downtown and is an impressive site to visit at 83 meters tall. The rushing water set against the icy winter landscape makes for some beautiful photos.

1 There Are Many Nordic Spas To Choose From

There are plenty of Nordic spas in and around Quebec City, making this the perfect winter destination for a relaxing getaway. Strøm Spa Nordique, Siberian Station Spa, and SKYSPA Quebec are all viable options for soothing spa treatments near the city.