While Québec province is vast, most of its people live in the stretch immediately adjacent to the northern borders of the states of New York and New England. Its major cities and towns, including Montréal and the capital of Québec City, as well as most of its developed resort and scenic areas, lie within a 3-hour drive of either city (Montréal and Québec themselves are just 3 hr. apart). Many visitors, especially those who live in the northeastern U.S., choose to visit with their own cars.
While portions of the following itineraries are more readily accomplished with a car, there are intercity buses and shuttle services to reach major destinations in the outer districts. Public transportation in the cities is good to excellent, so there is little need for a personal vehicle while enjoying their attractions. Further, if you plan to combine visits to both Montréal and Québec City, train service between them is frequent, fairly priced, and of high quality. With a few adjustments, then, an entire Québec vacation can be completed without a personal or rental car. That's often desirable, especially when weather is variable, or when winter carnivals or skiing are prime reasons for going.
