If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the charm of European Christmas markets but the cost or logistics of flying the entire family across the Atlantic feels overwhelming, visiting the Christmas markets in Canada is an incredible alternative. Here’s an overview of how we closed out our tour of Christmas markets in 2024!

We started our holiday road trip with an eight-hour drive from New Jersey to Montreal, made manageable by renting a spacious Jeep Wagoneer to accommodate our family of eight and all our winter gear. The additional comfort was worth every penny, as the trip included long drives and cold temperatures. With our stops planned every two hours to stretch and recharge, everyone stayed in good spirits, even as the travel time extended.

Our first night in Montreal set the festive tone for the trip. We stayed at the Omni Hotel, a well-appointed space where we enjoyed a relaxing evening after visiting Atwater Market, our first Christmas market of the trip. Although Atwater Market was smaller, it provided a delightful introduction to the local flavors and crafts that make Canadian markets so special. From there, we had dinner at McKiernan’s, a family-style restaurant where the warm atmosphere and delicious food marked the beginning of a truly memorable trip.

The next morning, after breakfast at the Omni, we headed out into Montreal’s unexpectedly frigid weather. This was when I truly appreciated the layers and warmers we’d packed for the trip. The drive to Quebec City was smooth but cold, and once again, the spacious Wagoneer proved invaluable for managing luggage and passengers comfortably.

Upon arriving in Quebec City, we faced a minor hiccup with our hotel check-in at the Hilton Quebec, but we didn’t let it slow us down. We dropped our bags in the first available room and set off for the nearby Place D’Youville Christmas market, just a short walk from the hotel. This market, like all the ones we visited in Quebec City, was brimming with holiday charm. What sets Quebec City apart from other destinations is the way the festive atmosphere extends beyond the markets. The entire city embraces the holiday spirit with stunning decorations, quaint shops, and cobblestone streets that make it feel like you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland.

The Christmas markets in Quebec City are vast, with surprises around every corner. Local vendors offer unique goods like small-batch wines, maple syrup, and artisanal chocolates. The opportunity to sample products added to the fun and made exploring the markets even more engaging. A standout memory was trying a non-alcoholic chocolate wine that was surprisingly delicious. The vendors’ warmth and hospitality created a welcome contrast to the fast-paced energy of New York City, where we’re accustomed to a different vibe.

While the cold weather was certainly a challenge, we came prepared with hand and toe warmers, allowing us to enjoy the markets despite the freezing temperatures. However, we agreed that a return visit in the spring or summer would be ideal for fully appreciating the city’s beauty without the frigid air.

Dining in Quebec City was another highlight. While we had planned to indulge in plenty of poutine, we ended up exploring other culinary delights, like breakfast at La Bûche, dinner at Le Billig Crêperie, and an elegant meal at Champlain Restaurant inside the Château Frontenac. The latter was not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes with its stunning holiday decor. For the kids, however, the clear favorite was the Hilton’s outdoor heated pool, which felt like a warm oasis despite the single-digit temperatures.

After three days and two nights in Quebec City, we headed back to Montreal to wrap up our trip. This time, we stayed at the Hyatt Place Montreal Downtown. While there, we explored Chinatown, which, while smaller than New York’s, offered its own charm. We also spent a day in the Underground City, a network of shops and walkways that exceeded my expectations. Unlike the grit of New York’s subway system or Penn Station, the Underground City was clean, inviting, and vibrant. We had lunch at Time Out Market Montreal, a food hall showcasing local restaurants, which was perfect for our group since everyone wanted something different.

The Christmas markets in Canada are magical, with their local crafts, delicious treats, and warm hospitality. If you can’t make it to Europe for the holidays, this trip is the next best thing. Walking through the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, shopping at festive stalls, and sharing delicious meals created memories that our family will cherish forever.

My advice? Do it. Yes, the drive is long, and the cold can be biting, but the experience is absolutely worth it. From the charm of Quebec City’s endless holiday decor to the festive energy of Montreal, this trip offers all the magic of a European Christmas market without the cost of flying across the Atlantic.