Family vacation in Charlevoix and Tadoussac: a 4-day itinerary
Looking for a family vacation without flying? The road from Quebec City to Tadoussac through Charlevoix is a classic: river, mountains, animals and whales, with short stops that suit little ones. Here is a four-day itinerary, best from June to October.
In short: day 1 in Quebec City and at Montmorency Falls, day 2 on the Charlevoix train, day 3 with alpacas and boats in Les Éboulements, day 4 with the whales in Tadoussac.
Day 1: from Quebec City to the Côte-de-Beaupré
Parc de la Chute-Montmorency
The ideal first stop leaving Quebec City: cable car, a suspension bridge over the falls and a zipline for older kids. Allow two hours.
- 5300, boulevard Sainte-Anne, Quebec City
- See the listing
Day 2: Baie-Saint-Paul
Train de Charlevoix
A 125 km ride hugging the river between the river and the mountains, with scenery that changes with the tides. Kids watch the river roll by and parents don't have to drive. Main station in Baie-Saint-Paul; runs June to late October.
- 50, rue de la Ferme, Baie-Saint-Paul
- See the listing
Day 3: Les Éboulements
Alpagas Charlevoix
An alpaca farm by the river: guided or self-guided visits, a walking trail and artisans working the fibre. Open May to October.
- 2646, route du Fleuve, Les Éboulements
- See the listing
Musée maritime de Charlevoix
In Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive, board four boats, including two wooden schooners. The Parc des Navigateurs adds an obstacle course, a hedge maze and a play area. Plan two to four hours.
- 305, rue de l'Église, Les Éboulements
- See the listing
Day 4: Tadoussac
AML whale-watching cruises
The highlight of the trip: a cruise in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park with naturalist guides. You can see up to 13 species, including belugas, humpback whales and seals. May to late October.
- 101, rue du Bord-de-l'Eau, Tadoussac
- See the listing
Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre
The perfect complement to the cruise: skeletons of about ten whales and specialists who answer kids' questions. Open year-round.
- 108, rue de la Cale-Sèche, Tadoussac
- See the listing
To go further
- Further into the Gaspé: Exploramer in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, with its aquarium and sea outings.
- In winter: the same road leads to Mont-Sainte-Anne for family skiing.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to see whales in Tadoussac?
Cruises run from May to late October. Dress kids warmly, even in summer: it is cold on the river.
How long does it take to drive from Quebec City to Tadoussac?
Allow about three hours of driving without stops. With kids, splitting the trip over two or three days, as in this itinerary, makes it much more enjoyable.
Is Charlevoix good for toddlers?
Yes: the train, the alpaca farm and the maritime museum's Parc des Navigateurs suit little ones well. For the cruise, check the recommended age before booking.
Information checked on October 12, 2026. Prices and hours may change: confirm with each place before you go.
