The Germain Hotels epicurean itinerary: A three-day stay in ten major Canadian cities
Whether you are looking for adventure, culinary delights, or a romantic getaway, we have created 10 unique itineraries for an unforgettable getaway in different destinations across Canada. From Calgary to St. John's, through Montreal and Toronto, these cities are full of treasures to discover. Whether it is your first trip to Quebec City, or you are looking to get off the beaten track, follow our hoteliers’ advice as they guide you through gastronomic itineraries designed to help you make the most of your stay.
GASTRONOMIC TOURS FROM EAST TO WEST WITH GERMAIN HOTELS
3-day itinerary in St. John's: Between land and sea
Alt Hotel St. John's overlooks St. John's Harbour, offering spectacular views of The Narrows. If the exterior is breathtaking, the interior is equally as impressive, since our hotel is home to Terre, voted Best Hotel Restaurant in En Route’s ranking of Canada’s Best New Restaurants 2021 by Air Canada and its partner Open Table. This is where your gastronomic escapade begins.
Day 1
Taste:
St. John's burgeoning culinary scene awaits! Start your day in the warm ambiance of Terre Café for breakfast. Then head to The Duke of Duckworth to enjoy the best fish n'chips. For creative and refined dishes, Chinched Bistro is an excellent option for dinner.
Visit:
Explore the city at your own pace as you stroll through St. John's historic district. Admire the colourful architecture of traditional houses and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Visit The Rooms Museum to discover the history and culture of Newfoundland and Labrador through its art, history, and natural science exhibits.
Day 2
Taste:
Try one of the city's quaint cafés, like Toslow. For lunch head to NAMJIM for Thai-inspired cuisine that changes based on local ingredients. Raise your glass at BANNERMAN BREWING CO and end the evening at the Terre restaurant.
Visit:
Discover a must-see tourist attraction: Signal Hill. This national historic site is renowned for its hiking trails and breathtaking views. Take in a play or show at LSPU Hall or Holy Heart Theatre for an enriching evening of culture.
Day 3
Taste:
Have lunch at the Blue on Water, just steps from the hotel. For lunch, weather permitting, enjoy a picnic or a quick bite at Johnny & Mae's Food Truck. End your stay on a high note with dinner at Terre Restaurant, where succulent dishes prepared using traditional methods and inspired by the surrounding nature and the sea await you.
Visit:
Stroll along the St. John's Coastal Trail for spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a guided tour of Cape Spear Lighthouse, Canada's oldest working lighthouse, to learn more about the region's maritime history. Or explore local art galleries and craft shops to discover the talent of the region’s artists and find unique souvenirs.
3-day itinerary in Halifax to recharge your batteries
With its pool, gym, and bright, modern rooms, Alt Hotel Halifax offers a comfortable base to discover the region's attractions.
Day 1
Taste:
Head to Café Lunette for a Parisian-style breakfast. For dinner, book a table at Five Fishermen, one of Halifax's most famous restaurants. In between, treat yourself to a lobster roll from Salty's.
Visit:
Harbour Hopper Tour offers guided tours of Halifax's major landmarks, both on water and on land. The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is a must-see, and much-appreciated stop!
Day 2
Taste:
Stop by the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market to sample local produce, artisan specialties, and gourmet delights from Nova Scotia. In the evening, head to the Bicycle Thief for fresh seafood and handmade pasta.
Visit:
Cultural and historical offerings abound in Halifax. Visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 to learn more about the history of immigrants to Canada, or the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia to discover contemporary and classical art exhibitions (reopening in spring 2024).
Day 3
Taste:
Make the most of your day. After sleeping in, head to Pizzeria Sosta! for freshly baked pizzas and authentic flavours. Later, a stop at the Rabbit Hole Café is a must for its sought-after pastries. Finish your culinary journey with the bistronomy of Agricola Street Brasserie.
Visit:
Reconnect with nature. Point Pleasant Park is a massive 186-acre park featuring walking trails where you can experience the preserved ruins of early fortifications. Right in the heart of downtown, you'll find the large wrought iron gates of the Halifax Public Gardens, an oasis of flowers and greenery created in 1867.
3-day itinerary in Charlevoix: A picturesque and relaxing escape
Le Germain Charlevoix Hotel & Spa offers a culinary getaway between the river and mountains where simple luxury and local gastronomy await.
Day 1
Taste:
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Les Labours Restaurant. Enjoy local products aboard the Train de Charlevoix. For dinner, head to Le Bercail Restaurant to discover its refined and delicious cuisine.
Visit:
From May to December, you can board the train and explore the picturesque landscapes of Charlevoix on a 2-hour round trip, offering spectacular views of the region's peaks and the majestic river. On your return, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation at Spa Nordique Le Germain.
Day 2
Taste:
Take a gourmet break at Boulangerie Bouchard. Make a reservation for lunch at Auberge La Fascine. Back at the hotel, enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Les Labours Restaurant.
Visit:
Take the ferry to L'Isle-aux-Coudres. Enjoy the island's activities, including beaches, bike paths and picturesque villages. At night, anything goes. Try your luck at the Casino de Charlevoix.
Day 3
Taste:
For a fresh, comforting breakfast or lunch featuring local products, opt for our restaurant Le Bercail. Then treat yourself to a memorable last dinner at Les Faux Bergers restaurant while stopping by the Migneron Cheese Boutique to end your stay in style.
Visit:
Check out the programming at Domaine Forget and explore its sculpture gardens. Make a stop at Moulin La Rémy to discover the fascinating history of the region. Stroll through the charming town of Baie-Saint-Paul and visit its Musée d'art contemporain.
3-day itinerary in Quebec City: A historic and gastronomic journey
The Old Capital welcomes you with open arms to the intimate, luxurious Le Germain Hotel Quebec or the sleek, urban Alt Hotel Quebec. Both are ideal starting points for a three-day gastronomic stay in Quebec City.
Day 1
Taste:
The Buffet de l'Antiquaire opens its doors at 6 am for a typical early bird breakfast. During the day, stop by the friendly Café Olive for specialty coffee. Finally, Bistango Restaurant welcomes you in a friendly atmosphere, serving succulent classics revisited using the freshest local products.
Visit:
Stroll along rue Cartier in the Montcalm district, a true bourgeois-bohemian haven that brings epicureans togethers. Soak up the sun on the Plains of Abraham. Admire Quebec and international art at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ).
Day 2
Taste:
Have a light lunch on Île d'Orléans. The popular Cassis Monna & Filles is well worth a visit. La Conciergerie du terroir also offers epicurean tours of the island and Old Quebec. If you have room for dinner, head to Petits Creux for Corsican-inspired cuisine.
Visit:
Explore the great outdoors. Discover Île d'Orléans and its vineyards by bike. Tame the Via Ferrata at Montmorency Falls Park. Or play 18 holes at the Club de Golf Royal Québec.
Day 3
Taste:
Start the day with an urban sugar shack at L Bûche restaurant. Discover First Nations gastronomy at Sagamité restaurant in Old Quebec. In the evening, travel to the land of refined aromas and flavours with Laurie Raphaël's engaging culinary experience.
Visit:
Although popular with tourists, don't miss out on Quebec City's iconic attractions, such as the Château Frontenac, Place Royale, and the Citadelle of Québec. Take a stroll through the historic district of Old Quebec to admire its picturesque architecture and charming cobblestone streets.
3-day itinerary in Montreal: A culinary and cultural odyssey
The Germain family welcomes you to the greater Montreal area, in the heart of downtown at Le Germain Hotel Montreal, in Griffintown at Alt Hotel Montreal, or at the Alt and ESCAD hotels in Quartier DIX30.
Day 1
Taste:
Have lunch at Dandy or enjoy a cortado at Café Olimpico. For lunch, head to Atwater Market. In the evening, it's all about Vin Papillon.
Visit:
Visit Librairie Livresse for recommendations on Quebec books. Head to the luxury second-hand boutique GoldFringe for treasures at low prices. Show off your new finds by strutting along the Lachine Canal and Wellington Street.
Day 2
Taste:
Enjoy a light breakfast at the hotel, then head to LE CENTRAL food court, where 25 of Montreal's signature restaurants await you in a lively atmosphere. End your evening in style at Le Boulevardier Restaurant. Our chef Florimond Hannoteau has created a diverse menu with dishes to please the whole table.
Visit:
L'Arsenal, the MAC, the MMFA and dozens of other museums and art galleries: the cultural offering in the metropolis is abundant. The shopping is just as impressive. Discover Griffintown and downtown, then take the REM for a shopping spree and an aperitif at Quartier DIX30. Finish the day at Bar Les Cousins to enjoy the best gin and tonic in town.
Day 3
Taste:
Grab a bagel in the Mile End (we won't comment on the rivalry between Saint-Viateur and Fairmount bagels, sorry), then continue north for lunch at Jean-Talon Market. Stop off at Café Pinocchio in Villeray, then end your gastronomic stay at Paloma for intimate, sophisticated cuisine.
Visit:
Stroll through Montreal's green spaces. Discover the different atmospheres and local wildlife, from Parc du Mont-Royal to Parc Jarry and Parc Laurier.
3-day gourmet and surprising itinerary in Ottawa
Le Germain Hotel and Alt Hotel Ottawa, located close to the city’s key sites, will welcome you to Ottawa for an epicurean stay.
Day 1
Taste:
Have lunch at Jackson Café, located in the Ottawa Art Gallery. Try wood-fired pizzas at Rabbit Hole, then end the day at Norca Restaurant for a gourmet happy hour and an unforgettable dining experience.
Visit:
Enjoy the exhibitions at the Ottawa Art Gallery in the morning, then opt for shopping on Elgin Street midday. Take a tour of the Golden Triangle’s elegant embassies.
Day 2
Taste:
For breakfast, head to Little Victories on Elgin Street, one of the city's finest (and best) cafés. Have lunch at Corner Peach, a must in Chinatown. In the evening, enjoy fine dining at Riviera or Arlo. Both restaurants are popular with good reason, so book ahead.
Visit:
Enjoy Ottawa from every angle by visiting the city's various urban parks. You will be able to explore trendy neighbourhoods like the Glebe or Little Italy and stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens with Parliament Hill or the Château Laurier in the background.
Day 3
Taste:
Start your day with a delicious coffee at Happy Goat, then head to Art-Is-In Bakery for brunch. In the evening, indulge in modern Middle Eastern cuisine at Fairouz restaurant in the ByWard Market.
Visit:
Explore Gatineau's Old Hull district, located on the other side of the Ottawa River. Visit the Canadian Museum of History to discover Canada's fascinating history. Walk across the Alexandria Bridge on foot, then stroll along the bustling streets of the ByWard Market.
3-day gastronomic itinerary in Toronto: eat like a king in the big city!
Food lovers have a lot to choose from in Toronto. For your gastronomic stay, Le Germain Hotels welcome you to their two luxurious locations on Mercer Street and Maple Leaf Square. The Alt Hotel at Toronto's Airport is also a great place for travellers passing through Pearson Airport.
Day 1
Taste:
Have breakfast at Arvo Coffee in the Distillery District. Grab a bite on the go at St. Lawrence Market. Enjoy Turkish coffee and Turkish delight at the Opal Lounge. In the evening, head to Bar Le Germain for original cocktails and classic dishes revisited served in a distinguished atmosphere. The ideal spot before a concert or hockey match.
Visit:
Take time to explore the Distillery District, the distinctive architecture of Cabbagetown, and a moment of serenity in Riverdale Park. Admire the designer furniture and fashion boutiques of King Street. Spend the evening in the Entertainment District.
Day 2
Taste:
Start the day with a coffee and a Scandinavian treat at FIKA Cafe. Head up to the 53rd floor for an exceptional and elegant lunch at Canoe. Come back down to earth with a cardamom coffee at Hailed Coffee. For dinner, try Alobar which features menus crafted by Michelin-starred chefs Patrick Kriss and Rebekah Bruce.
Visit:
Explore Kensington Market, famous for its eclectic boutiques, outdoor markets, and diverse culinary scene. A visit to the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is a must.
Day 3
Taste:
Enjoy the pastries from Sud Forno bakery. Taste the beer at Bellwoods Brewery. End your stay in Toronto on a high note with a Japanese-inspired dining experience at Hanmoto or La Banane.
Visit:
Take a stroll along Queen Street West, renowned for its designer boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafes. Relax at Trinity Bellwoods Park, then take a walk to High Park if you want to see more nature and wildlife.
3-day Winnipeg itinerary: a culinary scene to discover
Located in the new Sports, Hospitality, and Entertainment District (SHED), Alt Hotel Winnipeg is within walking distance of the Canada Life Centre and several restaurants, bars, and shops.
Day 1
Taste:
Start the day off right with breakfast at Promenade Brasserie. For lunch, we recommend the delicious sandwiches from King + Bannantyne. For dinner, The Merchant Kitchen offers dishes inspired by Asian and Latin street food, as well as delicious cocktails.
Visit:
Explore The Forks and Exchange District. You will find art, culture, shopping, and trendy cafés galore.
Day 2
Taste:
Café Postal's croissants are a real treat. Grab a quick bite to eat at The Forks Market. Treat yourself to refined vegan cuisine at Kevin's Bistro.
Visit:
Discover the Louis Riel Bridge, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, and St. Boniface Cathedral to enjoy an experience as educational as it is inspiring.
Day 3
Taste:
Mornings are sweet at Stella. Lunches are decadent at FrenchWay Café. Evenings offer a change of scenery with Georgian cuisine at Saperavi.
Visit:
Downtown, Osbourne Village, and Corydon. From one neighbourhood to the next, you will stumble across murals and street art, vintage and eclectic boutiques, in a jovial and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
3-day foodie itinerary in Saskatoon
In the heart of downtown, overlooking the South Saskatchewan River, Alt Hotel Saskatoon opens the doors to a vibrant and welcoming city. Near the hotel, you will find a riverside park, trails, urban amenities, and restaurants - in short, everything to please all taste.
Day 1
Taste:
Enjoy a light breakfast at the OEB, then head to Calories, an upscale lunch and brunch restaurant that lives up to its name. Try the beer at High Key Brewing, an innovative nanobrewery and source of local pride. Dine at Little Grouse on the Prairie, where you can enjoy refined local cuisine with fresh local ingredients.
Visit:
Explore Riversdale, Saskatoon's historic district. Then head to Broadway to enjoy its many bars, restaurants, cafés, and boutiques. Saskatoon is a great city to discover on foot.
Day 2
Taste:
Take your time and enjoy the morning at Little Bird Pâtisserie & Café. At midday, head to the UNA Pizza + Wine bistro for a Californian-inspired culinary experience. In the evening, Bokeh on the Plaza offers generous sharing boards and classic cocktails with a twist to in a chic yet casual setting. You can also visit Hearth, which offers an ever-changing menu with a pinch of whimsy, showcasing Saskatchewan ingredients. It features a comfortable bar where you can enjoy a great cocktail.
Visit:
Located just steps from the hotel on the banks of the Saskatchewan River, the Remai Museum of Modern Art features 11 exhibition halls spread over three floors, a theatre, a restaurant and more. As night falls, head to the University of Saskatchewan Observatory to admire the starry sky.
Day 3
Taste:
Start with a hearty brunch at Poached Breakfast Bistro. Continue with a guided tour and tastings at Black Fox Farm & Distillery, where handcrafted spirits showcase the flavours of the region. End the day in a friendly atmosphere with comfort food at Cohen's Beer Republic pub.
Visit:
Head a little out of town to discover local artisans and First Nations art. Wanuskewin Heritage Park is a must-see historical and archaeological site to learn more about the history and culture of Indigenous people.
3-day epicurean itinerary in Calgary
In the heart of the action and the trendiest neighbourhoods, our three Le Germain and Alt properties in Calgary offer a gastronomic stay in comfort and style.
Day 1
Taste:
Start with a trendy breakfast at Chix Eggshop. Continue with local and seasonal cuisine at The Nash. Finish at CHARCUT Roast House for the best-prepared meats in town.
Visit:
Explore the historic Inglewood neighbourhood, known for its independent fashion boutiques as well as vintage furniture and rare vinyl stores. At the end of the day, indulge in a post-shopping massage or facial at the RNR Wellness Spa.
Day 2
Taste:
Order breakfast in bed, then discover Indian cuisine at Calcutta Cricket Club at lunchtime. For an aperitif that has every chance of turning into a gourmet dinner, reserve a table at Vero Bistro Moderne.
Visit:
Begin your day with a visit to Nose Hill Park, the fourth largest urban park in North America, offering stunning views of downtown. In the afternoon. Stroll through the Kensington neighbourhood and Stephen Avenue.
Day 3
Taste:
For a perfectly crafted breakfast, choose OEB Restaurant. Book lunch or dinner at the idyllic River Café. Perched on Prince's Island, its all-Canadian cuisine made from local ingredients will delight you. For another dinner option, try NOTaBLE, a typical neighborhood restaurant.
Visit:
What better way to conclude this getaway than by discovering the city by canoe on the Bow River? Located just 5 minutes from the Alt Hotel University District, with a destination at the Alt Hotel East Village, it’s the best way to explore the city in all its splendor.
There’s so much to discover!