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YBC destination photo
YUL destination photo

YBCYUL

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a continuous panorama of the St. Lawrence River, featuring the scenic transition from the wide estuary to the narrow river valley and iconic views of the bridges near Quebec City.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌊

St. Lawrence Estuary

Expansive views of the massive waterway where the river opens toward the Atlantic, often showing small coastal islands.

🏝️

Île d'Orléans

A bird's-eye view of the historic agricultural island known for its traditional Quebecois heritage and scenic farms.

🌉

Quebec City Bridges

Dramatic views of the Pont de Québec and Pont Pierre-Laporte spanning the river as you pass the provincial capital.

🛶

Richelieu River Confluence

The point where the Richelieu River meets the St. Lawrence, signaling the approach into the Montreal metropolitan area.

🏙️

Montreal Skyline

During the final descent into YUL, passengers often see the Olympic Stadium and the downtown skyscrapers from the south-east.

Sit on the left side for evening flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun while enjoying the light reflecting off the river. This side is superior for seeing the bridges and the distinct landscape of the South Shore (Bas-Saint-Laurent). For the best views of the bridges, look out about 30-35 minutes after take-off.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🌲

The Canadian Shield

Ancient rock formations and dense boreal forests that define the rugged landscape of northern Quebec.

🏔️

Laurentian Mountains

Rolling mountain peaks and vast valleys that characterize the region north of the river valley.

🏰

Quebec City Skyline

Views of the historic Upper Town, including the iconic Château Frontenac overlooking the river.

🌊

Montmorency Falls

A high waterfall located just east of Quebec City, visible as a white plume against the green cliffs.

💧

Mauricie Region Lakes

A mosaic of thousands of small lakes and winding rivers scattered throughout the deep forest terrain.

Choose the right side for morning flights to see the sunrise illuminating the Laurentian Mountains. Watch for the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord shortly after departure from Baie-Comeau. If the flight path takes a northern approach into Montreal, you will get an excellent view of the Rivière des Prairies.

Top Activities in Montreal
Route Information

Distance: 583 km (362 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 58 min

Departure: YBC (49.13249969482422, -68.20439910888672)

Arrival: YUL (45.4706001282, -73.7407989502)

Route Type: Domestic

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