Burlington to Quebec City: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Burlington to Quebec City, where charming New England landscapes blend seamlessly with French-Canadian culture. This comprehensive guide will help you plan the perfect road trip, covering everything from must-see attractions and scenic drives to delicious food and charming accommodations. The approximately 220-mile (354 km) adventure from Burlington to Quebec City typically takes about 6-7 hours of driving time, but with so much to see and do along the way, you'll want to take your time to fully experience this remarkable route.
Before get into details, here are some other recommendations near in this city:
The Burlington to Quebec City road trip offers unique experiences year-round:
Spring: Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming landscapes.
Summer: Perfect for outdoor activities and festivals in both cities.
Fall: Witness breathtaking fall foliage along the route.
Winter: Experience magical winter wonderlands and festive celebrations.
Getting There
The most popular route from Burlington to Quebec City is via I-89 N to I-87 N. This route offers a balance of efficiency and scenic views. For a more picturesque journey, consider taking smaller highways and backroads through Vermont's charming towns.
Budget Considerations
Plan for expenses including:
Gas: Approximately $50-$70 USD for a round trip.
Food: Budget $30-$50 per person per day.
Accommodation: Prices range from $50-$200+ per night.
Activities: Allow $20-$50 per person per day for attractions and experiences.
Stops Along the Way
Stowe, Vermont (Optional)
Just an hour from Burlington, Stowe is a charming mountain town known for its outdoor activities and picturesque scenery. Don't miss:
Stowe Mountain Resort: Enjoy gondola rides and hiking trails.
Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour: Indulge in a sweet treat and learn about ice cream making.
Montpelier, Vermont (Optional)
As the smallest state capital in the US, Montpelier offers a quaint small-town atmosphere with plenty of history:
Vermont State House: Take a guided tour of this beautiful Greek Revival building.
Vermont History Museum: Learn about the state's rich heritage.
Crossing the Border
Prepare for your border crossing by having the following documents ready:
Valid passport or NEXUS card
Vehicle registration and insurance
Proof of accommodation in Canada (if applicable)
Be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak travel seasons.
Sherbrooke, Quebec (Optional)
This charming city offers a blend of English and French cultures:
Explore the historic downtown area.
Visit the Musée de la nature et des sciences.
Sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
Quebec City: Where History Meets Charm
Accommodations
Quebec City offers a range of lodging options to suit every budget and preference:
Budget: Auberge Internationale de Québec
Mid-range: Hôtel Manoir Victoria
Luxury: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
Food and Drink
Indulge in Quebec's rich culinary scene:
Try poutine at La Bûche
Enjoy fine dining at Restaurant Initiale
Sample local beers at La Korrigane Brasserie Artisanale
Things to Do in Quebec City
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec):
Citadelle of Quebec: Witness the changing of the guard ceremony.
Château Frontenac: Admire the iconic hotel and its stunning views.
Place Royale: Visit the birthplace of French civilization in North America.
Quartier Petit Champlain: Shop at charming boutiques and artisan shops.
Beyond Old Quebec:
Musée de la civilisation: Discover Quebec's history and culture.
Parc de la Chute-Montmorency: Marvel at the 272-foot (83 m) waterfall.
Île d'Orléans: Explore picturesque landscapes and local wineries.
Burlington: Gateway to the Green Mountains
Accommodations
Choose from a variety of lodging options in Burlington:
Budget: Burlington Hostel
Mid-range: Hotel Vermont
Luxury: The Essex Resort & Spa
Food and Drink
Experience Burlington's thriving food scene:
Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at Hen of the Wood
Sample craft beers at Foam Brewers
Savor lakeside dining at Splash at the Boathouse
Things to Do in Burlington
Waterfront Park & ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: Stroll along the waterfront and visit the science museum.
Church Street Marketplace: Explore this pedestrian-friendly street filled with shops and restaurants.
Shelburne Museum: Discover American folk art and design at this open-air museum.
Tips for Your Road Trip
Packing Essentials
Weather-appropriate clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Reusable water bottle
Snacks for the journey
First aid kit
Car emergency kit
Navigation and Entertainment
Download offline maps using Google Maps or Waze
Create a road trip playlist or download podcasts
Bring travel games for entertainment during breaks
Safety Tips
Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue
Stay hydrated and pack healthy snacks
Designate a driver if planning to enjoy alcoholic beverages
Check weather and road conditions before departing