Quebec is a popular destination for teachers and students alike. This predominately French-speaking province is the cradle of French civilization in North America.
Montreal, the most populous city in the province, is an excellent choice for a school trip. Your students will love learning about the French language and culture, and the rich history of Canada’s largest and most cosmopolitan city.
Here are six highlights not to be missed:
The Food
You and your students will enjoy the traditional cuisine of this region, including tire sur la neige, a type of taffy; shish taouk, a variation on chicken shawarma; and tourtière, a traditional meat pie.
Yet the signature food of Quebec is, without a doubt, poutine. This classic dish, which is slang for “a mess,” is a delectable combination of French fries and cheese curds topped with brown gravy.
St. Joseph’s Oratory
The Roman Catholic minor basilica St Joseph’s Oratory is Canada’s largest church. It dates back to 1924 and is dedicated to the country’s patron saint, Joseph, the foster father of Jesus. As such, it is an important site for pilgrims.
This center of culture, music, art, and spirituality has a little something for everyone. Your students can explore the museum, with its treasures of religious, historical and artistic heritage. They can also wander through the exquisite gardens and discover more about St. Joseph.
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts gallery space is the largest in Canada, and the oldest. It houses a collection of more than 41,000 works dating back to antiquity. The displays include paintings, sculptures, graphic arts, photographs, and decorative art objects.
This educational experience appeals to all students who enjoy learning about history, culture, and art. They will relish the chance to explore the exciting collections in the museum’s five pavilions.
Targeted programs are also available to school groups that want an in-depth look at specific objects within a collection.
Quebec City Old Town
The historic district of Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage site, often referred to as a bit of Old Europe on American soil. It is the only walled city north of Mexico, and is said to date back to the early 17th century.
Your students will enjoy discovering the area’s rich history within its vibrant streets. The classically beautiful architecture will inspire them to want to know more about the origins of this unique place.
Montmorency Falls
The Montmorency Falls consists of three individual waterfalls, the largest of which is a full 30 m (99’) higher than the famous Niagara Falls. This beautiful location is considered one of the most striking natural wonders in Quebec.
Take your students to the top of the falls in the cable car. From there, follow the footpath along the top of the cliff until you reach the suspension bridge. Here, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the area. For those who are feeling daring, the thrilling 487-step scenic staircase back down along the cliff is an optional way to descend.
Canyon Sainte-Anne
Carved by the Sainte-Anne-du-Nord River, the Canyon Sainte-Anne is a spectacular steep-sided gorge with an imposing waterfall and three suspension bridges. Your adventurous students will love crossing the roaring river at 197 ft.
Also, you can take a ride on the Air Canyon. The two-seater lift will send you flying 296 ft at speeds up to 31 mph, right over the spectacular canyon itself. Or, your more adventure-loving students might choose to experience the canyon using Canada’s first Via Ferrata.
School group travel is so important! Consider offering performance trips, or band trips for a school group tour: