Leave Montreal early and, if driving, take the Chemin du Roy where practical, following the historic route through the communities along the St. Lawrence.

Arrive in Trois-Rivières and begin in the Vieux-Trois-Rivières district.

Walk through the historic streets and admire the colourful houses, stone buildings, churches, and small shops that reveal the city's long history as one of Québec's oldest settlements.

Continue toward Place d'Armes and the surrounding historic streets before making your way toward the river.

Spend the afternoon exploring Trois-Rivières' relationship with the St. Lawrence River.

Walk along the waterfront and the Parc Portuaire, taking in views across the river and the city's historic shoreline.

Then choose a cultural stop such as the Musée POP, which explores Québec popular culture and everyday life through changing exhibitions and collections.

Take a break for lunch or coffee in the historic centre before spending some time browsing the local shops and galleries.

Before leaving Trois-Rivières, settle into a relaxed dinner in the historic centre.

Look for a restaurant showcasing Québécois ingredients and regional cooking, or keep things casual with a café or bistro.

If the weather is good, take one final walk along the waterfront before beginning the drive back to Montreal.

Start in Downtown Sherbrooke, exploring the historic streets and the city's distinctive mural circuit.

Follow the self-guided route through the downtown core, where large trompe-l'œil murals bring local history, people, and neighbourhoods to life. Sherbrooke has 19 murals, effectively turning the city centre into an open-air gallery.

Continue to La Societe d'histoire de Sherbrooke for a deeper look at the city's local history, or visit Musée des beaux arts de Sherbrooke if you'd rather focus on regional art.

Make your way toward the Magog River Gorge, where a short urban walk combines waterfalls, river views, and remnants of Sherbrooke's industrial past.

Then continue to Lac des Nations and follow the lakeside promenade. The easy loop is a good way to slow down after exploring downtown, with views, public art, and green space along the waterfront.

Stop at the nearby Marché de la Gare for a snack or lunch featuring local products, then take some time to browse Sherbrooke's cafés and shops.

Before heading back to Montreal, have an early dinner in downtown Sherbrooke.

Look for a restaurant highlighting Québécois and Eastern Townships ingredients, or stop at Jacques Cartier Park for a final waterfront stroll.

If you're travelling in a season when it fits the schedule, you can also add a visit to La Halte des Pèlerins, an urban vineyard just outside the centre, for a taste of the region's growing wine culture.