DAY 1 - Depart for Canada
Arrive in quaint Quebec City, the only walled city in North America, acclaimed as the "most French" city outside of France. Balance of the day is at leisure to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Time to settle in before tonight's orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 7 pm, followed by a Welcome Drink. We recommend that you select flights which arrive in your destination no later than 5 pm on Day 1 of the itinerary or earlier, if possible.
DAY 2 - Evening Christmas Market Tour
Spend the morning at leisure, or participate in the optional Quebec City Tour by bus. Experience the European charm of the first French settlement in North America. Learn about the history, culture and architecture of Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover Old Quebec, the historic heart of French Canada and the capital of the province of Quebec, with its narrow cobbled streets and stone buildings. View the Fortifications of Quebec, Citadelle of Quebec and Notre Dame de Quebec Basilica Cathedral. Continue to the beautiful Plains of Abraham, where the famous Battle of Quebec between the French and English armies took place in the Seven Years’ War in 1759. Enjoy views of picturesque Place d'Armes and admire the Le Château Frontenac, one of Canada's grand railway hotels, perched elegantly atop Cape Diamond. Afternoon is free to explore independently. In the evening, join your Tour Manager for an orientation tour of the Christmas Market. Discover a magical European wonderland nestled right in the heart of Quebec City. Pass by the brightly decorated wooden kiosks, they are the perfect place to find that unique gift. This evening, join the optional Quebec City Dinner. Take a short walk through the streets of the walled city to a traditional French Quebecois Bistro. Savor a 3-course dinner, while being entertained by local musicians as they perform regional folk music. (Breakfast)
Optional: Half Day Quebec City Tour 9:00 AM
Optional: Quebec City Dinner 7:00 PM
DAY 3 - Full Day in Quebec City
Full day at leisure to discover the city's many old world shops, arcades and cafes. In the afternoon, join the optional Countryside Tour. Travel back in time to rural Quebec, as you pass by the many traditional villages on your way to the Shrine of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in North America. Stop at breathtaking Montmorency Falls, one and a half times higher than Niagara Falls. Continue with a visit to the Island of Orléans, discovered by Jacques Cartier in 1535 and view the picturesque village of Sainte-Pétronille, with its 19th century rural atmosphere. Visit the Albert Gilles' copper art studio and watch a metalworking demonstration. Conclude the tour with a stop at the Island Chocolate Shop that offers a wide variety of chocolates made from only the finest ingredients imported from Belgium. (Breakfast)
Optional: Half Day Quebec Country Tour 12:30 PM
DAY 4 - Depart Canada
Your vacation ends today after breakfast. (Breakfast)
