East Coast USA & Canada in 10 Days: The Classic Group Itinerary

If a group has time for only one trip to North America, this is usually the one. In ten days the route links America’s best-known cities with the falls at Niagara and the French-speaking charm of Quebec. Below is the version we have refined over many seasons of operating it for groups.

Day-by-day overview

Day 1 – Arrive in New York

Airport meet and greet, transfer to the hotel and an easy evening walk around Times Square to beat jet lag.

Day 2 – New York City

Harbor cruise past the Statue of Liberty, the 9/11 Memorial, Wall Street, Fifth Avenue and Central Park. Optional observation deck at sunset.

Day 3 – Philadelphia and Washington DC

Stop at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, then continue to the capital for an evening view of the illuminated monuments.

Day 4 – Washington DC

The U.S. Capitol, the White House (outside view), the Lincoln Memorial and time at the Smithsonian museums, most of which are free.

Day 5 – Through Pennsylvania to Niagara Falls

The longest driving day, broken up with scenic stops. Arrive at the falls for the evening illumination.

Day 6 – Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake

A boat ride into the mist of the Horseshoe Falls (seasonal), the Niagara Parkway and a winery visit in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada’s ice wine country. Overnight in Toronto.

Day 7 – Toronto, Thousand Islands, Montreal

Morning in Toronto with the CN Tower, then a Thousand Islands cruise on the St. Lawrence River on the way to Montreal.

Day 8 – Montreal to Quebec City

Notre-Dame Basilica and Old Montreal, then on to Quebec City for dinner inside the old walls.

Day 9 – Quebec City and Montmorency Falls

The UNESCO-listed Old Quebec, the Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls, which are taller than Niagara.

Day 10 – Departure

Transfer to the airport in Montreal or Quebec City, or extend to Toronto, Boston or Florida.

Best time to go

Late May to mid-October is the classic season, when the Niagara boats and Thousand Islands cruises operate. Late September to mid-October adds the fall colors of Ontario and Quebec, and it is also the busiest period, so book early. Winter programs are possible, with fewer crowds and frozen-falls scenery, but some attractions close.

Practical notes for groups

• Two countries, two entry checks. Every traveler needs documents that allow entry to both the United States and Canada, and re-entry to the U.S. if the program returns there. Requirements depend on nationality, so check the official U.S. and Canadian government websites well in advance.
• Driving time is regulated. Coach driver hours are limited by law, which is why we break the longest legs with stops and plan overnights carefully.
• Hotels. Group rates in New York and Quebec City fill first in summer and fall; a deposit secures them.
• Meals. We can arrange Asian restaurants on most nights for groups who prefer familiar food.

Every program can be shortened, extended or reversed (Canada first, then the U.S.) to match flight availability.