Longueuil Travel Guide (Montérégie/Southwestern Quebec/Quebec/Canada/North America)

Introduction to Longueuil
List of Places to Visit in Longueuil
Hiking/Biking Routes of Longueuil
Best Things to Do in Longueuil: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Longueuil
Food and Drink Scene of Longueuil
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Longueuil: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Longueuil: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Longueuil
Best Time to Visit Longueuil
Do’s and Don’ts of Longueuil
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Longueuil
- Health in Longueuil
Getting to Longueuil: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Longueuil
Where to Go Next from Longueuil: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Longueuil

Longueuil is a charming city located in the Montérégie region of Quebec. It is situated on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River and is a quick 20-minute drive from downtown Montreal. The city boasts diverse attractions, including historic sites, natural attractions, and cultural landmarks. This cosmopolitan city also offers a host of culinary delights, accommodations, and outdoor adventures that make it a popular vacation spot.

List of Places to Visit in Longueuil

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Musée de la Ferme du Péché Mignon

The Musée de la Ferme du Péché Mignon is a popular museum in Longueuil that tells the history and heritage of the region. It is located in a beautifully restored 19th-century farmstead and offers interactive exhibits on local agriculture, food production, and rural life.

Fort Chambly National Historic Site

Fort Chambly is a 17th-century military fortress that played a crucial role in Quebec’s history. Visitors can tour the fort’s barracks, powder magazine, and watchtower, and learn about its strategic importance during the colonial-era.

Natural Attractions of Longueuil: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Parc Michel-Chartrand

Parc Michel-Chartrand is a 1,221-acre park in Longueuil that offers a variety of outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, fishing, and cross-country skiing. The park’s highlight and one of the most visited spots is the scenic Chartrand Lake, which offers great views and tranquil surroundings.

Îles-de-Boucherville National Park

The Îles-de-Boucherville National Park is an archipelago of five islands located in the St. Lawrence River. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The extensive park features forests, wetlands, and open meadows, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Longueuil

With its lush green spaces and varied topography, Longueuil is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the popular trails that you can’t miss:

Marie-Victorin Park Circuit: A scenic 6.5-km trail that takes you through forests, wetlands, and prairies.
Parc Michel-Chartrand Trail: A 15-km trail that offers beautiful views of the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, the St. Lawrence River, and the Montreal skyline.
Vieux-Longueuil Walking Tours: A series of guided walking tours that offer an insight into the cultural and historic landmarks of Longueuil and its downtown core.

Best Things to Do in Longueuil: Activities and Tours

Whether you love adrenaline-pumping activities or prefer a leisurely pace, Longueuil has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Longueuil:

La Ronde Amusement Park: A popular amusement park with more than 40 rides and attractions that cater to all age groups.
SkyVenture Montreal: An indoor skydiving facility that offers thrilling flight experiences for adventure seekers.
Les Enfants Terribles: A renowned restaurant that offers exquisite French-Canadian cuisine and an exceptional dining experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Longueuil

If you plan to spend a week in Longueuil, here’s a rough itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day	Activity
1	Visit Fort Chambly National Historic Site and explore the Old Longueuil historic district
2	Discover the natural beauty of Parc Michel-Chartrand and take a guided walking tour of Vieux-Longueuil
3	Explore the charming Îles-de-Boucherville National Park, go kayaking and have a picnic by the river
4	Discover the heritage and history of Longueuil at the Musée de la Ferme du Péché Mignon
5	Take a day trip to Montreal, visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, and indulge in some shopping and dining
6	Visit the Biosphère, a museum showcasing environmental and ecological issues, and enjoy a sunset river cruise
7	Relax and unwind at one of Longueuil’s spas and enjoy a final meal at one of its outstanding restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Longueuil

Must-Try Dishes

One of the best things about traveling is sampling the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes in Longueuil:

Poutine: A classic Quebec dish that consists of fries, cheese curds, and gravy
Tourtière: A meat pie that is a staple of the Quebecois cuisine
Smoked meat sandwich: Sliced smoked beef served on rye bread with mustard and a pickle

Local Beverages

Quebec is famous for its microbreweries and craft beers, and Longueuil is no exception. Some of the best places to try the local brews and drinks include:

Brasseurs de Montreal: An award-winning brewery that offers a range of artisanal beers
Cidrerie Milton: A family-owned apple orchard that produces high-quality ciders and other fruit-based drinks
Le Cep d’Argent: A winery located in the nearby Eastern Townships, known for its stunning views and sparkling wines

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

Longueuil offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, visitors can choose from the following:

Hôtel le Dauphin: A modern hotel located in the heart of Longueuil that offers stylish rooms and exceptional amenities.
Auberge Manoir Ville Marie: A boutique hotel that features elegantly furnished rooms and a cozy atmosphere.
Gîte du Survenant: A rustic bed and breakfast that offers a warm welcome and authentic Quebecois hospitality.

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

When it comes to souvenirs, Longueuil offers a variety of options that reflect its culture and history. Here are some of the best places to buy unique and authentic Quebecois products:

Galerie d’art Yvon Desgagnés: A gallery that showcases the works of local Quebecois artists and artisans.
Cassis Monna & Filles: A small-scale business that produces high-quality blackcurrant-based products, including syrup, jam, and liqueur.
Marché Public de Longueuil: A farmer’s market that sells fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handicrafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Longueuil

Quebecois culture is unique and diverse, and Longueuil is no exception. Visitors can expect to encounter friendly locals who are proud of their heritage and traditions. Some of the customs and cultural practices that you may come across include:

French language: French is the official language of Quebec and Longueuil. Though most locals can speak English, it is always appreciated when visitors try to communicate in French.
Festivals and events: Longueuil hosts a range of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Festivités de la Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a celebration of Quebec’s patron saint.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in Quebec, and it is expected to tip around 15 to 20 percent in restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit Longueuil

The best time to visit Longueuil is during the summer months, between June and August. The weather during this time is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, visitors can also enjoy the fall foliage during September and October and winter sports during the snowy winter months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Longueuil

Do:

Try the local cuisine and explore the food scene in Longueuil.
Take a guided walking tour of the city to learn about its history and culture.
Respect the French language and try to communicate in French, even if it’s just a few words.

Don’t:

Underestimate the importance of safety when exploring the city’s natural attractions.
Visit during the spring when the river floods the shoreline and the park’s paths are closed for weeks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Longueuil

Longueuil is a safe city, and visitors can explore and enjoy its attractions without any concern for personal safety. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution and take necessary precautions when traveling, such as keeping valuables in a safe place and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Longueuil

Longueuil has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors can receive medical care in case of emergency at the Centre Hospitalier Pierre-Boucher.

Getting to Longueuil: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Longueuil

The nearest international airport to Longueuil is the Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, which is located approximately 25 km away. Visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach their destination.

Bus Stations Near Longueuil

The Longueuil station is a major transit hub that serves a range of bus routes, including intercity buses from MegaBus, Greyhound, and Orleans Express.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Longueuil by car or train from other parts of Canada and the United States.

How to Get Around in Longueuil

Longueuil has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and metro services. Visitors can also rent a car or bike to explore the city at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Longueuil: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Longueuil is a great starting point for exploring the rest of Quebec and nearby parts of Canada. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Montreal: The largest city of Quebec; has lots of things to see and do for a week.
Eastern Townships: A picturesque region in Quebec known for its charming villages, natural beauty, and scenic backroads.
Ottawa: The capital of Canada. See the Canadian Parliament Hills, Rideau Canal, and the world-class museums.

Conclusion

Longueuil offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for a unique and immersive experience. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors, discovering local history and culture, indulging in fine cuisine, or simply relaxing and unwinding, Longueuil has something to offer. Plan your trip today and discover the best of Montérégie, Quebec.