A European Holiday Tradition Right in Our Backyard
When late November arrives, the historic cobblestone streets of Old Quebec transform into a storybook winter wonderland. Snow-dusted stone facades, twinkling canopy lights, and the comforting aroma of toasted spices fill the crisp air. For travelers dreaming of classic European holiday markets without the lengthy transatlantic flight, Quebec City offers a fairy-tale escape right here in Canada. At Collins Tours, we take immense pleasure in bringing our guests to this spellbinding destination, where centuries-old Old World heritage blends seamlessly with warm Canadian hospitality.
Our holiday getaway is carefully tailored to provide an enchanting experience packed with festive cheer, iconic sightseeing, and ultimate relaxation. Departing conveniently from pickup points across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, our luxury motorcoach journey eliminates the stress of winter driving. From the moment our guests step aboard, Collins Tours ensures every detail is managed effortlessly so you can focus entirely on soaking in the magic of the holiday season.
Step into Wonderland at the German Christmas Market
The heart of this winter adventure is the renowned German Christmas Market (Marché de Noël allemand) nestled directly inside historic Old Quebec. Designed to recreate the traditional, romantic atmosphere of big European markets, this seasonal village features dozens of charming wooden kiosks surrounding historic plazas and illuminated streets.
- Delicious Festive Treats: Satisfy holiday cravings with authentic German bratwurst, gingerbread, warm pretzels, roasted nuts, and steaming cups of spiced mulled wine (Glühwein).
- Artisanal Shopping: Discover handcrafted wooden ornaments, exquisite glass trinkets, cozy knitwear, and local Quebecois terroir products like artisan maple creations and regional cheeses—perfect for unique holiday gifts.
- Charming Entertainment: Enjoy choral music, festive holiday tunes, pop-up artistic performances, and the joyful ambiance that radiates through the glowing market stalls.
With plenty of free time built into our itinerary, our guests can stroll through the brightly decorated alleyways at their own relaxed pace, enjoying multi-sensory delights and picking out one-of-a-kind treasures for loved ones back home.
Guided Discoveries Beyond the Market Stalls
While the Christmas Market is a shining highlight, the rich culture and striking geography surrounding Quebec City add remarkable depth to our tour. Our itinerary perfectly balances festive shopping with insightful cultural excursions led by professional local guides who bring the region's vibrant history to life.
Our guests embark on a guided motorcoach and walking tour highlighting the architectural treasures of both Upper and Lower Old Quebec. You will admire historic landmarks such as the majestic Parliament Building, bustling historic squares, and the formidable stone ramparts that give North America’s only fortified city its distinctive character.
The journey extends along the scenic St. Lawrence shoreline to explore notable landmarks outside the city walls. We visit the grand Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, world-famous for its magnificent stained glass, intricate sacred art, and centuries-old tradition of welcoming travelers. Guests also enjoy a tour of the fascinating Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum to witness master metalwork craftsmanship firsthand, followed by a breathtaking photo opportunity at the dramatic Montmorency Falls, where icy waters tumble down cliffs taller than Niagara Falls.
Unmatched Comfort, Dining, and Signature Service
At Collins Tours, we believe high-quality travel combines rich sightseeing with serene, comfortable accommodations. Our guests enjoy a three-night stay at the elegant four-star Hotel Palace Royale. Situated just a two-minute walk from the gates of Old Quebec, this prime location allows travelers to easily walk to nearby shops, historic streets, and vibrant cafes at their leisure. The hotel also features an enchanting indoor tropical garden atrium and pool, offering a relaxing, warm oasis after a crisp day of winter exploring.
Dining is another highlight of our tour experience. Every morning begins with a full hot breakfast at the hotel to energize you for the day's adventures. To celebrate the season together, Collins Tours includes two exclusive group dinners at exceptional locally sourced restaurants. These special group meals feature premium cuisine accompanied by a complimentary glass of wine or beer, providing a wonderful atmosphere for sharing travel stories and building lasting friendships with fellow travelers.
To ensure total peace of mind from start to finish, our signature group check-in service takes care of your luggage upon arrival, while our dedicated Collins Tours Manager assists with every travel detail along the way.
Join Collins Tours for an Unforgettable Holiday Tradition
If you are looking to start a cozy new festive tradition and create unforgettable winter memories, we invite you to experience Quebec City with us. Sit back in our deluxe motorcoach, relax, and let Collins Tours handle all the driving, accommodation, and itinerary details. Visit our website or contact our welcoming team today to view the full tour details and reserve your seat on this magical Christmas getaway!
