From Québec to the Big Apple Montreal to New York

Montreal is the world's second-largest francophone city, set on an island in the St. Lawrence River where French colonial heritage meets North American energy and one of the continent's most exciting food scenes. Must-dos include visiting the stunning Basilique Notre-Dame, eating smoked meat at Schwartz's and bagels at St-Viateur, and exploring the Plateau's bohemian streets. June through September offers peak festival season, including the world's largest jazz festival.

Quebec City is North America's only walled city, a UNESCO treasure where 400 years of French colonial architecture crown a St. Lawrence promontory beneath the iconic Château Frontenac. Visit September through October via Cunard or Seabourn for autumn foliage transforming stone ramparts, elevated Québécois terroir cuisine, and the singular experience of genuine Old World atmosphere on a continent that rarely provides it.

Tadoussac is a historic village at the mouth of Canada's Saguenay Fjord, where cold river waters meeting the St. Lawrence create one of the world's premier whale-watching destinations with up to 13 species including belugas, fin whales, and occasional blue whales. Must-dos include a Zodiac whale-watching excursion, kayaking the dramatic Saguenay Fjord, and visiting North America's oldest wooden church. Visit August or September for peak whale diversity and autumn foliage.

Percé on Québec's Gaspé Peninsula is dominated by the monumental Rocher Percé limestone monolith and neighbouring Île Bonaventure, home to North America's largest Northern gannet colony with over 100,000 birds. Must-dos include the island's clifftop walking trail through the gannet colony, fresh lobster at village restaurants, and sunrise over the iconic rock. June through September provides the active seabird season and warmest Gulf of St. Lawrence conditions.

Cap aux Meules, Canada, offers an authentic North American experience where stunning natural landscapes meet communities of genuine character. Visitors should explore the surrounding wilderness and sample the honest, locally sourced cuisine that defines the region. The ideal visiting period is May through October, when the climate is at its most welcoming for outdoor exploration. Cruise lines including Scenic Ocean Cruises feature this port on their most compelling itineraries. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, the port rewards exploration at every pace and in every direction.

Louisbourg is the site of North America's largest reconstructed eighteenth-century fortified town on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, where costumed interpreters bring the French colonial era to life within meticulously rebuilt barracks, taverns, and residences. Must-dos include dining on period-recipe meals inside the fortress, exploring the immersive historical interpretation, and driving the spectacular Cabot Trail through Cape Breton Highlands. Visit July through August for the fullest programming, or June and September for dramatic Atlantic fog and fewer crowds.

Halifax, the historic capital of Nova Scotia, is a refined Atlantic port where centuries of maritime heritage meet a flourishing culinary scene anchored by Digby scallops, donairs, and one of North America's oldest farmers' markets. Visitors should not miss the star-shaped Citadel Hill and the harbourfront boardwalk's constellation of galleries and tasting rooms. The ideal season stretches from late June through October, when autumn's blazing foliage transforms the entire province into a masterwork of colour and the cruise terminal welcomes the world's finest vessels.

Yarmouth is a historic maritime town at the southwestern tip of Nova Scotia, where Acadian heritage, Victorian sea captains' mansions, and world-class seafood converge. Visitors should explore Cape Forchu Lighthouse, sample fresh lobster and rappie pie, and kayak among the Tusket Islands. The best time to visit is June through October, when pleasant weather and autumn colours are at their finest.

Boston is America's revolutionary birthplace and intellectual capital, a supremely walkable city where the Freedom Trail connects sixteen historic sites past Italian North End bakeries and Beacon Hill's gaslit streets. Must-do experiences include walking the Freedom Trail, eating a lobster roll at the Union Oyster House, and exploring the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. September and October bring peak fall foliage; spring brings the Marathon and blooming gardens.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, United States is a distinctive port city where deep cultural heritage meets authentic local atmosphere, featured on itineraries by Azamara. Must-do experiences include walking the historic center to experience the layered architectural heritage, and seeking out the regional culinary traditions at a locally favored establishment away from the port area. The optimal time to visit is May through September, when mild temperatures and long days favor unhurried exploration.

Newport,UK, United Kingdom is a distinctive port city where deep cultural heritage meets authentic local atmosphere, featured on itineraries by Celebrity Cruises. Must-do experiences include walking the historic center to experience the layered architectural heritage, and seeking out the regional culinary traditions at a locally favored establishment away from the port area. The optimal time to visit is June through August, when summer months bring the warmest temperatures and longest days.

The Port of New York is a bustling maritime gateway rich in history and cultural diversity, making it a must-visit destination. Don't miss the chance to savor authentic New York pizza and explore the vibrant Chelsea Market. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall, when the weather is pleasant, and the city is alive with activity.