By Molly Chester, Certified Travel Advisor and Scarborough resident

Only about five hours north of Scarborough, Québec City feels like you’ve crossed the ocean and found yourself in a charming European village, without ever leaving your car. The drive is easy and pretty in winter, and when you cruise through the stone gates of the Old Town, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve landed in a storybook. Snow piles up on the rooftops, café windows glow with candlelight, and the smell of maple sugar is heavy in the air at all times.

If you want to go full fairy-tale, stay at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the iconic castle on the hill that overlooks the St. Lawrence River. It’s as grand as it looks from the photos, and guests booked through me receive breakfast daily, a dining credit, and an upgrade on arrival whenever possible. For something smaller and more tucked away, two-Michelin-Key Auberge Saint-Antoine in the Lower Town is another of my favorites: historic but modern, with fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, and the same exclusive booking perks. Its restaurant, Chez Muffy, is absolutely excellent and ridiculously cozy, especially on a snowy night.

There’s plenty to do in town, but the best part is just soaking up the distinctly Québécois charm. Walk through Quartier Petit-Champlain, stop for hot chocolate or maple taffy, and just revel in the feeling of being so removed from home while actually just a couple hours north. Families love the old wooden toboggan slide next to the Frontenac, and everyone enjoys a ride on the funiculaire! If you’re visiting in December, the German Christmas Market fills the streets with lights, music, and mulled wine. Later in the winter, the Ice Hotel and Carnaval de Québec make February a little more fun to look forward to (and plan ahead!).

For terrific meals, I love Le Lapin Sauté for cozy Québécois comfort food, Bistro L’Orygine for something fresh and creative, or a stop at Café La Maison Smith for coffee and croissants to rival those in Paris.

Good to Know

• Park once and explore on foot – the Old City is very walkable.
• Make dinner reservations on winter weekends – places are cozy (read: tiny) and fill fast!
• Bring layers and good boots – sidewalks can be slick even with light snow.

It’s an easy long weekend that feels like a real escape, and a destination that’s just as good for couples as it is for families. I’d love to help coordinate the details for a little jaunt up north, or any trip you may be considering!

Molly Chester lives in Scarborough and plans trips to destinations near and far as the founder of MChesterTravel.com.