Sherbrooke Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful city of Sherbrooke in Quebec, Canada with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Sherbrooke

Nestled in Southwestern Quebec, Sherbrooke is a stunning city that is rich in culture and natural beauty. The city is known for its historical sites, art museums, beautiful parks, and stunning natural landscapes. Sherbrooke sits at the junction of the Saint-Francois and Magog rivers, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. Sherbrooke is a vibrant city with a small-town feel, making it the perfect destination for tourists who want to soak in the local culture. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will explore the best places to visit in Sherbrooke, including its natural and cultural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Sherbrooke

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sherbrooke is a city rich in history and culture. There are numerous museums and historical places that showcase the city’s rich heritage. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Sherbrooke include:

  • Musee de la nature et des sciences: This is a natural science museum that showcases the flora and fauna of Quebec. The museum has interactive exhibits and live animals, making it an excellent place to visit for children.

  • Musee des beaux-arts de Sherbrooke: This is an art museum that features works by regional and national artists. The museum has several collections of fine arts, including contemporary art, Canadian art, and the work of regional artists.

  • The Sherbrooke History Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the city’s history and heritage. The museum has several exhibits that showcase how the city evolved from a small town to a modern city.

  • Saint-Michel Basilica-Cathedral: This is a Roman Catholic church that dates back to the 19th century. The church is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike due to its beautiful Gothic Revival architecture.

Natural Attractions of Sherbrooke: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sherbrooke is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of options for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Some of the must-visit natural attractions in Sherbrooke include:

  • Parc du Mont-Bellevue: This is a beautiful park that offers stunning views of the city. The park is an excellent spot for hiking, picnicking, and mountain biking.

  • Lac-des-Nations: This is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by parks and green spaces. The lake is a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

  • Bois Beckett: This is a beautiful forested area that is home to several hiking trails and picnic spots. The forest is also home to various wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sherbrooke

Sherbrooke has several hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the city’s natural landscapes. Some of the top hiking and biking routes in Sherbrooke include:

  • The Sentier de L’Estrie Trail: This is a beautiful 115 km trail that takes hikers and bikers through the heart of Sherbrooke’s natural landscapes.

  • The Mont-Bellevue Trail: This is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

  • The P’tit Train du Nord Trail: This 232 km trail takes hikers and bikers through some of Quebec’s most beautiful rural landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Sherbrooke: Activities and Tours

Sherbrooke has plenty of activities and tours that will keep tourists engaged and entertained. Some of the top things to do in Sherbrooke include:

  • Take the Sherbrooke Foodie Tour: This tour takes visitors on a gastronomic journey through Sherbrooke’s food scene, including stops at local restaurants and markets.

  • Visit the Foresta Lumina: This is an immersive multimedia experience that takes visitors on a journey through the forest at night, with special lighting and sound effects.

  • Explore the Downtown Area: Sherbrooke’s downtown area is a hub of cultural attractions, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the area by foot or take a guided tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sherbrooke

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Sherbrooke, here is an itinerary that covers some of the top attractions and activities in the city:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Musee de la nature et des sciences
2 Explore Sherbrooke’s downtown area
3 Hike the Mont-Bellevue Trail
4 Take a Sherbrooke Foodie Tour
5 Visit Bois Beckett
6 Explore the art scene at Musee des beaux-arts de Sherbrooke
7 Visit the Foresta Lumina

Food and Drink Scene of Sherbrooke

Must-Try Dishes

Sherbrooke’s food scene offers plenty of delicious options for foodies. Some of the must-try dishes in Sherbrooke include:

  • Poutines: This is a Quebecois staple that consists of french fries and cheese curds topped with gravy.

  • Maple Syrup Treats: Sherbrooke is known for its maple syrup treats, including maple taffy, maple syrup pie, and maple syrup cookies.

  • Smoked Meat Sandwiches: This is a popular sandwich that is made with smoked meat, rye bread, and mustard.

Local Beverages

Sherbrooke has a thriving brewery scene, with several microbreweries that offer a wide range of local beers. Some of the must-try local beers in Sherbrooke include:

  • HopEra Brewing Co.: This microbrewery is known for its IPA beers, including the popular Hopera City IPA.

  • Siboire Microbrasserie: This is a popular microbrewery that offers a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers.

Where to Stay in Sherbrooke: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sherbrooke has plenty of accommodation options for tourists, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the top accommodation options in Sherbrooke include:

  • Delta Hotels by Marriott Sherbrooke Conference Centre: This is a luxurious hotel that is located in the heart of the city. The hotel offers several amenities, including a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a restaurant.

  • Gite du Grand Peintre: This is a historical guesthouse that offers a cozy and comfortable stay. The guesthouse has several rooms that are decorated with paintings by local artists.

  • Auberge de Jeunesse Magog-Orford: This is a budget-friendly hostel that is located near the city’s natural attractions. The hostel offers several amenities, including a shared kitchen, a lounge, and free Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Sherbrooke: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home, here are some of the best options in Sherbrooke:

  • Maple Syrup: Sherbrooke is known for its high-quality maple syrup, which makes for an excellent souvenir or gift.

  • Artwork: Sherbrooke has a thriving art scene, and visitors can purchase original artwork or prints from local artists.

  • Cheese: Quebec is known for its delicious cheese, and visitors can purchase local cheeses, including cheddar, brie, and camembert.

Local Culture and Customs of Sherbrooke

The local culture of Sherbrooke is a unique blend of French and Canadian influences. French is the official language, but visitors will find that most people also speak English. The people of Sherbrooke are friendly and welcoming, and visitors should expect a relaxed and laid-back vibe.

Best Time to Visit Sherbrooke

Sherbrooke is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit for outdoor activities is from May to October. The weather during this time is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sherbrooke

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including poutines and maple syrup treats.
  • Explore the city’s outdoors, including parks and forests.
  • Visit the local museums and historical sites to learn about the city’s culture and heritage.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly in public spaces, as it can be considered rude.
  • Litter in the city’s outdoor spaces.
  • Forget to bring your hiking shoes and gear for outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sherbrooke

Sherbrooke is a safe city for tourists. There is little to no crime, and tourists should feel safe walking around the city, even at night. However, visitors should take standard precautions, such as keeping their valuables close and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Sherbrooke

Sherbrooke has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors should have no issues finding medical care if needed. Visitors should bring any medications they need with them, as some medications might not be available in Canada.

Getting to Sherbrooke: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sherbrooke

The nearest major airport to Sherbrooke is the Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, which is located about 153 km away. A smaller regional airport, the Sherbrooke Airport, is located about 10 km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Sherbrooke

Sherbrooke has several bus stations that connect it to major cities in Quebec and Canada. Some of the top bus stations in Sherbrooke include:

  • Sherbrooke Bus Terminal: This is a major bus terminal that connects Sherbrooke to several cities in Quebec.

  • Montreal Bus Station: This is a major bus station that connects Sherbrooke to several cities in Canada and the United States.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Sherbrooke, as the city is well-connected to major highways in Quebec and Canada. There is also a train station in Sherbrooke, which connects it to major cities in Quebec.

How to Get Around in Sherbrooke

Sherbrooke is a pedestrian-friendly city, and visitors can explore most of the city’s attractions on foot. Visitors can also take the local bus, which covers most of the city. Taxis and rideshare services are also available in Sherbrooke.

Where to Go Next from Sherbrooke: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sherbrooke is located in the heart of the Eastern Townships, which is a beautiful region that is worth exploring. Some of the top nearby destinations and excursions from Sherbrooke include:

  • Magog: This is a beautiful town that is located by the shores of Lake Memphremagog. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake or explore the town’s quaint shops and restaurants.

  • The Wine Route: This is a scenic drive that takes visitors through the Eastern Townships’ vineyards and wineries.

  • Mont Orford: This is a beautiful mountain that is perfect for hiking and skiing. Visitors can hike to the summit for a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscapes.

Conclusion

Sherbrooke is a unique destination that offers a rich cultural experience combined with stunning natural beauty. From its historical sites and museums to its hiking trails and green spaces, Sherbrooke has something for every type of traveler. This comprehensive tour guide should help visitors plan their trip to Sherbrooke and make the most of their experience in this beautiful city.

Historical buildings on Dufferin Street Historical buildings on Dufferin Street City Hall City Hall Musée de la nature et des sciences Musée de la nature et des sciences Jacques-Cartier Park Jacques-Cartier Park