Step into Canada’s most joyful winter celebrations, where snow becomes art, ice becomes architecture, and entire cities turn into snowy playgrounds. This 4-day adventure takes you to two of the country’s biggest cold-season festivals — the Carnaval de Québec and Ottawa’s Winterlude — for an unforgettable immersion into the warmth of winter culture.
Marvel at illuminated parades, admire massive ice sculptures, try maple taffy on snow, and dance (or slide!) your way through cities transformed by snow and lights. It’s festive, it’s fun, and it’s very, very Canadian.
Tour Includes
2 nights in Québec City + 1 night in Ottawa (central hotels, 3–4 stars)
Entry passes to Carnaval de Québec & Winterlude
Guided walking tours in both cities with historical & cultural highlights
Access to special events: night parades, snow sculpture zones, and outdoor shows
Traditional Québécois group dinner & ride on giant snow slide
All ground transfers between cities
Maple syrup tasting, beavertail snack, and hot chocolate moments included!
Option to add-on snow tubing or skating on Rideau Canal
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Bonjour Québec City!
Arrive in one of North America's oldest and most picturesque cities, where cobblestone streets are blanketed in snow and festive lights dance off the stone walls. Check in and join a guided walking tour through Old Québec, ending at the Carnaval grounds. Tonight: explore the night parade, with massive floats, music, and Bonhomme Carnaval himself leading the cheer.
Day 2: Ice Slides, Snow Sculptures & Sugar on Snow
Your day is full of playful wonders: try the giant snow slide by the Château Frontenac, wander through lanes of snow sculptures, and enjoy carnival games, street performers, and ice canoe races (if conditions allow). In the evening, enjoy a warm, traditional Québécois dinner — think tourtière, pea soup, and maple desserts.
Day 3: On to Ottawa & Winterlude Fun
Morning transfer to Ottawa, where Winterlude welcomes you with ice carving competitions, the world’s longest skating rink (Rideau Canal), and interactive snow playgrounds for all ages. Your guide takes you through ByWard Market and downtown highlights. Don’t miss a stop at a BeaverTails stand for a hot pastry treat!
Day 4: Skates & Goodbyes
Optional early morning skate or snow tubing session before checkout. Transfers provided to the train station or Ottawa airport. Extra days can be added for museums, spa visits, or a snowy Gatineau Park hike.
Carnaval de Québec is family-friendly and deeply rooted in local culture
Weather can dip to -20°C or colder: warm layers essential
No experience needed to enjoy slides, skating, or cultural events
English & French are spoken throughout, especially in tourist areas
This tour is for anyone who wants to celebrate winter, not escape it. You’ll leave with cold cheeks, warm memories, and maybe even a Bonhomme souvenir or two.
Get in touch with us to get more information or to receive assistance from our experts.
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