French Canada in Bloom 2027

Monday, May 10

Depart Central PA for Ottawa, ON. Comfort & meal (on own) stops en route.
Arrive late afternoon to check in. The Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown is a contemporary hotel ideally situated in the heart of Ottawa, just steps from Parliament Hill, the ByWard Market, and many of the city's most popular attractions. Guests enjoy spacious accommodations and a range of modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining.

Dinner is included tonight, at or near the hotel.

Tuesday, May 11

Morning: Breakfast is included at your hotel. Meet your local guide for a full day of touring in Ottawa and the Canadian Tulip Festival. Spend time immersed in a sea of vibrant color at the Canadian Tulip Festival, where over 300,000 tulips bloom along the scenic shores of Dow's Lake in Ottawa. Stroll the beautiful gardens, snap stunning photos, and discover the festival's unique story of friendship between Canada and the Netherlands in one of the city's most picturesque springtime experiences. Experience the Ottawa River's enchanting beauty. This unforgettable 1-hour adventure takes you through over 50 focal points, from Parliament Hill to the Canadian Museum of History and from 24 Sussex Drive to the stunning Rideau Falls.

Lunch & Shopping Time on own: The ByWard Market is the beating heart of Ottawa, where historic charm meets vibrant city energy in a bustling maze of market stalls, local boutiques, street performers, and acclaimed restaurants. Whether you're sampling fresh local treats, shopping for unique Canadian souvenirs, or soaking in the lively atmosphere, this iconic destination offers an unforgettable taste of Canada's capital.

Afternoon: Experience Parliament Hill as you step inside the stunning home of Canada's government, where soaring Gothic architecture, rich history, and breathtaking views of the Ottawa River create an unforgettable experience. From the iconic Peace Tower to the chambers where the nation's biggest decisions are made, this inspiring tour brings Canada's past, present, and future to life.
Step behind the scenes of one of Canada's most iconic traditions with a guided tour of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Musical Ride stables, where you can meet the famous black horses and learn about the riders who perform precision cavalry drills. This unique Ottawa experience offers a fascinating glimpse into Canadian heritage, complete with photo opportunities and stories that bring the legendary Mounties to life.

Evening: Dinner tonight is included nearby.

Wednesday, May 12

Morning
Breakfast is included at your hotel.
Say goodbye to Ottawa and Bonjour to Montreal! Depart Ottawa for a 2.5-hour drive to Montreal. Upon arrival in Montreal, meet your local guide for a walking tour of Old Montreal. Your guide is with you for the rest of the day.
Afternoon
Lunch on your own in Old Montreal. Afterward, step aboard an AML River Cruise for a scenic journey along the water, offering breathtaking views, a serene atmosphere, and engaging commentary that brings local landmarks and history to life. With spacious seating and a full-service bar, the cruise provides a comfortable setting to relax and take in the natural beauty and cultural charm of the region.

The DoubleTree Hotel Montreal is a modern hotel in the entertainment district, Quartier des Spectacles, and is ideal for exploration.
Dinner (included): Located in the heart of Old Montreal, Vieux-Port Steakhouse is a beloved local institution set in a beautifully restored century-old building. With its exposed stone walls, hardwood floors, and cozy fireplaces, the ambiance blends rustic charm with classic elegance. In the warmer months, guests can enjoy one of the city's most picturesque garden terraces, surrounded by lush greenery and historic architecture.

Thursday, May 13

Morning
Breakfast is included at your hotel.
Meet your guide this morning for a full day of touring. From Mount Royal to the St. Lawrence, from the eclectic, bustling neighborhood to the Time-Out Market, the energy that defines Montreal is everywhere.
A tour of Montreal's Notre-Dame Basilica takes visitors through one of Canada's most stunning Gothic Revival churches, renowned for its deep blue interior, intricate wood carvings, and dazzling stained-glass windows that depict Montreal's history.
The Montreal Botanical Garden is one of the world's largest and most celebrated botanical gardens, featuring beautifully designed themed gardens, extensive plant collections, and scenic walking paths. You can explore highlights such as the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, and First Nations Garden while enjoying a peaceful escape into nature in the heart of the city.
Lunch on Own: Time Out Market Montreal is a vibrant food and cultural destination in the heart of downtown Montreal, bringing together some of the city's top chefs, restaurants, bars, and local artisans under one roof. Experience the city's dynamic culinary scene in a lively, modern setting for lunch on your own.

Afternoon: A tour of St. Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal in Montreal takes visitors through one of the world's largest shrines dedicated to Saint Joseph, featuring its magnificent basilica, historic chapel, gardens, and panoramic views of the city.

This evening, be transported by the mesmerizing Aura Experience at Montréal's Notre-Dame Basilica. As light, music, and architecture converge, the basilica's grand interior is transformed into a radiant spectacle of color and sound. Through stunning projections and a powerful orchestral score, the show brings the cathedral's rich history and artistry to life in a deeply moving way. Aura is more than a performance-it's a soul-stirring journey through one of Canada's most iconic sacred spaces.
Dinner tonight will be included.

Friday, May 14

Morning
Breakfast is included at your hotel.
After breakfast, check out and depart for Quebec City.
Lunch: Meet your guide upon arrival in Quebec City. Enjoy lunch on your own along the cobbled streets of Old Quebec.
Afternoon: After lunch, uncover the heart of Québec City on a captivating blend of walking and driving exploration. From the stately National Assembly and historic Parliament Hill to the sweeping landscapes of Battlefield Park, every stop reveals a new layer of charm. Stroll through the cobblestone beauty of Place D'Armes, admire the grandeur of Château Frontenac, and step inside the timeless Notre-Dame de Québec. Cap off your journey with a scenic one-way ride on the funicular, offering stunning views as you descend into the city's lower town. It's history, elegance, and discovery-all in one unforgettable tour.
The Best Western Premier Hôtel Aristocrate offers a comfortable upscale stay just minutes from Old Québec, making it an ideal base for sightseeing. The hotel combines modern rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a convenient mix of local charm.
Evening
Dinner tonight will be included.

Saturday, May 15

Morning
Hotel check-out
Meet your local guide for a full day of touring along the St. Lawrence River along the Côte-de-Beaupré. Natural beauty, artisans, and majesty define this day of touring.
Take in the thrill and beauty of Montmorency Falls from every angle. Begin at the summit, where you'll stroll across the suspension bridge for panoramic views of the roaring cascade below. Then, descend in style aboard the scenic gondola, gliding gently to the base of the falls. Your motorcoach will be waiting at the bottom-ready to whisk you away after this unforgettable encounter with one of Québec's most spectacular natural wonders.
The Albert Gilles Copper Museum offers a fascinating look into the intricate art of copper embossing. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour featuring a live demonstration of this traditional craft, explore the Gilles family's rich artistic legacy, and admire a collection of stunning religious and decorative copper works. The experience also includes a hands-on opportunity to create your own copper keepsake-a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and creativity.
Next, enjoy a scenic drive to the revered Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, just 7 miles away. Upon arrival, take time to explore this magnificent pilgrimage site at your own pace. Nearby, a variety of charming brasseries and cafés offer the perfect spot for lunch on your own. Your guide will be on hand to assist with recommendations and directions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Afternoon: Take a scenic drive to L'Île d'Orléans, just 21 miles from Québec City, where the St. Lawrence River wraps around a landscape rich in charm and heritage. Known as the "Garden of Québec," this picturesque island offers rolling farmland, quaint villages, and stunning river views-a peaceful escape that feels worlds away.
Embark on a flavorful journey through the heart of Québec's apple country with a guided tasting at Bilodeau Cider House. Discover the family's passion for cider-making as you sample a variety of specialties, from sparkling cider and maple aperitif to rich apple butter. Enjoy a visual presentation in the cozy group room, then take a behind-the-scenes look at the modern production facility through panoramic viewing windows. It's a delicious and immersive experience rooted in tradition and craftsmanship.
Dinner: La Bûche is a vibrant and character-filled restaurant nestled in the heart of Old Québec, where traditional Québécois cuisine is reimagined with a creative twist. The rustic interior, complete with picnic tables and playful décor, creates a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere. Live music adds to the lively ambiance, making each visit a spirited celebration of Québec's rich culinary and cultural heritage.

Sunday, May 16

Morning
Breakfast is included at your hotel.
Step back in time with a guided tour of Sucrerie de la Montagne, a traditional Québécois sugar shack nestled in a maple forest. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the age-old process of maple syrup production, complete with rustic buildings, wood-fired evaporators, and authentic tools. Learn about the cultural heritage of sugaring season, enjoy the sweet aroma of boiling sap, and discover how maple syrup has been crafted for generations. Perfect for all ages, this tour blends history, nature, and delicious tradition in a charming, hands-on setting.
Afternoon: Riveredge Resort is a charming waterfront getaway in the heart of the Thousand Islands, offering breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River. Built on a historic steamboat wharf, the resort features comfortable rooms-many with private balconies overlooking Boldt Castle and Heart Island. Guests can relax and enjoy amenities like an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and a variety of dining options, including the seasonal poolside Tiki Bar and the scenic "Windows on the Bay" restaurant.
Dinner: Windows on the Bay at Riveredge Resort offers a relaxed yet elegant dining experience with breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and Boldt Castle. Surrounded by water on three sides, this scenic restaurant features both indoor seating and a seasonal outdoor Channelview Deck-perfect for enjoying the sights and sounds of Alexandria Bay's bustling harbor

Monday, May 17

Morning
Breakfast is included at your hotel.
Check out and depart for home. About 7.5 hours with stops

FB=Full Breakfast, D=Dinner