Quebec: Montmorency Falls & Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré Private Day Trip

Summary

Montmorency’s thunder, basilica’s hush, all in one private Quebec day

You’ll stand close enough to Montmorency Falls to feel its spray on your skin, walk across its suspension bridge if you dare, then find calm wandering Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica’s hushed aisles. With private transport and a friendly local guide handling every detail (even ice cream stops), this half-day trip lets you soak up both thunder and tranquility east of Quebec City.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound — Montmorency Falls isn’t shy about making itself heard. We’d barely stepped out of the van (which, by the way, was so much more comfortable than I expected) when that deep roar hit me. Our guide, Jean-Luc, grinned and handed us bottled water before pointing out the way to the suspension bridge. The mist on my face felt sharp and cold, almost metallic. I tried to take a selfie but my hair was already wild from the spray — honestly, it made me laugh out loud. There were families everywhere eating ice cream; I caved and got one too, even though it was barely noon.

I didn’t expect to feel nervous on that bridge. Looking down at the drop — 30 meters higher than Niagara, Jean-Luc said — my stomach did a little flip. The river below looked almost fake from up there, like someone painted it with all those swirling colors. He told us about how in winter everything freezes into these weird shapes; can’t imagine crossing then! After we took the funicular back down (my legs thanked me), we piled into the van again for Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré.

The basilica is something else. It’s so quiet inside you almost forget you’re not alone — except for the soft shuffle of feet and someone lighting a candle now and then. Our guide walked us through some of its history (the Pope visited here in 2022 — still feels surreal), but mostly let us wander at our own pace. I lingered by a stained-glass window just because of how the light looked on my hands. There are tiny souvenir shops outside; I bought a little medal for my aunt who collects these things. The ride back was sleepy and peaceful — maybe it was all that fresh air or just letting myself slow down for once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Montmorency Falls and Basilica visit

• Travel to Montmorency Falls
• Explore Montmorency Falls site
• Take gondola or cross suspension bridge
• Travel to Basilica of Ste-Anne de Beaupré
• Visit Basilica and souvenir shops
• Return to Quebec City

Top questions

How long does this Montmorency Falls & Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré tour take?

This is a half-day trip departing from Quebec City.

Is hotel pickup included in this private day trip?

Yes, private transportation with pickup is included.

Can I bring small children or infants?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers and infant seats are available.

Is there a guided tour inside Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica?

A guided tour is included except on Sundays; otherwise you can explore at your own pace.

Are entry fees or parking included in this tour?

Yes, parking fees are covered; bottled water is also provided.

How far is Montmorency Falls from Quebec City?

Montmorency Falls is about 15 minutes east of Quebec City by car.

What should I wear for Montmorency Falls?

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket—the falls’ mist can be cool even in summer.

What’s included

Your day includes private air-conditioned transport with pickup from Quebec City, bottled water for everyone, parking fees covered at both stops, plus time to explore both Montmorency Falls Park (with access to the suspension bridge and funicular) and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica—guided inside except Sundays—before heading back relaxed and full of new stories.