Driving
Goobies to Quebec City
Updated: 31 May 2026
The journey from Goobies to Quebec City involves a mix of driving and a mandatory ferry crossing. You will drive 550 km to Port aux Basques to board the Marine Atlantic ferry. The ferry crosses the Cabot Strait to North Sydney, Nova Scotia. From there, you will drive approximately 1,200 km along the Trans-Canada Highway through New Brunswick and into Quebec. This route is a classic Atlantic Canada road trip.
Total Distance: Driving distance 1,800 km; straight-line air distance 1,100 km.
Fastest Way
Driving is the only practical method, taking roughly 24 hours including the ferry.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for groups.
Compare Goobies to Quebec City Routes
Driving
Connecting
Duration
24 hours
Avg Price
$400 - $700
Operator
Marine Atlantic
Route
TCH (Hwy 1) to Port aux Basques, ferry to North Sydney, Hwy 104/20 to Quebec City.
Book your ferry reservation weeks in advance during peak summer.
Travel Tips
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Ferry BookingCheck the Marine Atlantic website for real-time ferry schedules.
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LanguageFrench is the primary language in Quebec City; learning basic phrases is helpful.
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TollsThere are no major tolls on the TCH, but be aware of bridge tolls in some areas.
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Rest StopsPlan your stops in New Brunswick to avoid driver fatigue.
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ParkingParking in Old Quebec is expensive; look for hotels with included parking.
Safety Tips
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Ferry SafetyFollow all crew instructions during the Cabot Strait crossing.
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WeatherCheck road conditions in the Chic-Choc Mountains during winter.
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EmergencyKeep a physical map as cell service can be spotty in rural areas.
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FatigueSwitch drivers every 4 hours to maintain alertness.
People Also Ask
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How long is the ferry?The crossing from Port aux Basques to North Sydney takes about 7 hours.
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Is the road safe?Yes, the Trans-Canada Highway is well-maintained throughout the year.
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Do I need a passport?No, this is a domestic route within Canada.
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Can I take a train?No, there is no rail service connecting Newfoundland to the mainland.
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What is the best time to drive?Daylight hours are best to avoid wildlife on the road.
Quick Info
- From Goobies, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
- To Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
September for fall foliage along the St. Lawrence River.
Things to Do in Quebec City
1
Old Quebec
Walk the historic streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site. It features 17th-century architecture.
2
Chateau Frontenac
Visit the iconic hotel overlooking the St. Lawrence River. It is a landmark of the city.
3
Montmorency Falls
See the waterfall that is higher than Niagara Falls. It is located just outside the city center.
4
Place Royale
Explore the site where Samuel de Champlain founded the city. It is filled with shops and cafes.
Tags
Goobies to Quebec City
Marine Atlantic ferry
driving to Quebec City from NL
Trans-Canada Highway route
traveling to Quebec
ferry from Newfoundland
North Sydney to Quebec
Canada road trip
