Feedback on a 3-week summer itinerary in Quebec

Hi everyone,

We’re planning our first trip to Quebec for early July 2026. There’ll be 2 adults and 2 teens (17 and 14 years old). For now, we’re thinking of renting an RV in Montreal for this loop.

Here’s a first draft of our route, based on itineraries I’ve seen on the forum. The times below are the useful time spent at each stop, not including driving. Does the order make sense? It has us crossing the river twice. Are the lengths of the stops reasonable? We like to take our time and not spend too much time on the road. Finally, any other suggestions for places to add or swap out?

Arrival and half a day in Montreal Pick up RV the next day Mauricie National Park: 2.5 days Quebec City: 2 days Jacques Cartier National Park: 2.5 days Saguenay Fjord–Tadoussac: 2.5 days, then crossing Bic Park: 2.5 days, then crossing back Charlevoix: 3.5 days Montreal: 2 days, then return to France

Thanks so much in advance for any help you can give us!

GabRaph

Hi, In my humble opinion, Charlevoix isn't in the best ''spot.'' Personally (though it's just my opinion and not necessarily one to follow), I'd place it between Jacques Cartier Park and Saguenay. Sure, it means backtracking on the 175 toward Quebec City, but it'll save you from crossing the river twice (Bic is on the south shore, and Charlevoix is on the north shore).

Here’s how I’d see your route: Montreal / Mauricie / Quebec City / Jacques Cartier / Charlevoix / Route 170 toward Saguenay / Route 172 toward Tadoussac (that way, you’ll fully ''embrace'' the stunning Saguenay Fjord) / Tadoussac / Bic Park (crossing from Les Escoumins to Trois-Pistoles) / return to Montreal via the Bas-Saint-Laurent (Route 132 to Quebec City, then Highway 20 or 40 to Montreal).

Is renting an RV ultimately less expensive than renting a car and staying in accommodations? I don’t think so, but since I’m not an ''RV enthusiast,'' I’ll let the ''experts'' weigh in!

Happy planning!

Hi, Don’t forget to take into account Quebec’s Construction Holiday, which will run from July 19 to August 1, 2026. It’s a time when it’s best to book hotels and sometimes even certain places or spots you want to visit. Happy planning! 👍😊

Thanks, you're right—it does make more sense. I'll adjust it accordingly.

we’re thinking of renting an RV in Montreal for this route.

Hi there,

I won’t comment on your itinerary—I don’t know the region well enough (just a 10-day visit). But do look into whether an RV is really the best option. For example, in the U.S., which I know better, it’s not cost-effective. That said, it *is* a lifestyle.

Whether it was our 10-day trip to Quebec/Ontario or a 2-week trip to British Columbia, we’ve always managed in decent hotels/motels with a fridge and microwave, which cuts down on restaurant costs and lets you travel with minimal hassle without spending too much.

I agree with the itinerary suggested by Les Caribous. But I’d put Jacques-Cartier Park before Quebec City to avoid backtracking and then having to return to Quebec.