Things To Do
in Sherbrooke

Sherbrooke, Canada, is a vibrant city located in the Eastern Townships of Quebec, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As the sixth-largest city in Quebec, Sherbrooke boasts a bustling downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. The city is surrounded by beautiful lakes and mountains, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

With a blend of urban life and nature, Sherbrooke offers a unique experience for visitors seeking adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Sherbrooke
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Marché de la Gare, a local market where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee while mingling with locals.

afternoon
:

Explore the Sherbrooke Museum of Fine Arts and take a leisurely stroll along the Magog River, enjoying the scenic views and public art installations.

evening
:

Dine at La Table de la Gare, where you can savor local cuisine, followed by a walk through the beautifully illuminated downtown area.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head to Mont-Bellevue Park for hiking and panoramic views of the city. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy at one of the scenic lookout points.

afternoon
:

Visit the Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook, where you can hike along the breathtaking trails and experience the famous suspended bridge.

evening
:

Relax at a local brewery such as La Memphré, where you can taste craft beers paired with delicious pub fare.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🍕Pizza$12-$18
🚍Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night stay$100-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and festivals.
  • Friendly locals and vibrant community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Winter can be harsh and may limit some outdoor activities.
  • Public transport may not be as extensive.

Places to Visit in Sherbrooke

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook

This park features stunning gorges and beautiful landscapes, perfect for capturing breathtaking nature photos.

Jacques-Cartier Bridge

An iconic landmark in Sherbrooke, the bridge offers a picturesque view of the city and the river, especially at sunset.

Sherbrooke Cathedral

A beautiful architectural marvel, the cathedral's intricate details make it an ideal spot for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sherbrooke

Sherbrooke offers a delightful culinary scene that highlights local ingredients and flavors, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Sherbrooke Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pouding Chômeur

A traditional Quebec dessert made of cake batter and rich syrup, often served warm with cream.

Must-Try!

Tourtière

A savory meat pie that is a staple in Quebec cuisine, usually made with minced pork and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de la Gare

A lively market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and street food vendors offering delicious bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sherbrooke experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and fall are transitional, offering mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Average annual precipitation is around 1000-1200 mm, with the majority falling as rain in the warmer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and it’s polite to greet with a 'Bonjour' (Hello).

Language

French is the primary language spoken in Sherbrooke, so learning a few basic phrases can be greatly appreciated.

Personal Space

Canadians value personal space, so maintain an appropriate distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sherbrooke is generally considered safe for visitors, with low crime rates compared to larger cities. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. It's advisable to familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers, and local medical facilities are readily available.

Tipping in Sherbrooke

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service staff in restaurants, typically around 15-20% of the bill before taxes.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and many establishments also accept mobile payment options.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Summer in Sherbrooke offers warm temperatures, ideal for hiking, biking, and enjoying festivals.

Fall

Fall showcases stunning foliage, making it a great time for scenic drives and outdoor photography.

Winter

Winter transforms Sherbrooke into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowshoeing, and enjoying winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Sherbrooke at Night

Sherbrooke's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of cozy pubs, lively bars, and nightclubs. The downtown area is the hub for nightlife activities, offering live music, dance floors, and themed events. Popular spots include La Memphré for craft beer lovers and Le Club 88 for those seeking a nightclub experience. The city also hosts various festivals throughout the year, adding to the lively atmosphere after dark.

Hiking in Sherbrooke

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mont-Bellevue Trail

A popular hiking trail with various paths, offering stunning views of Sherbrooke and the surrounding landscape.

Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook Trails

This park features several hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, with breathtaking views of the gorge and river.

Airports

How to reach Sherbrooke by plane.

Sherbrooke Airport (YSC)

Located just outside the city, Sherbrooke Airport offers limited domestic flights, mainly serving general aviation and charter flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sherbrooke is quite walkable, particularly in the downtown area where many amenities, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. The city features sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones, making it easy to explore on foot. Parks and recreational areas are also accessible, encouraging leisurely strolls and outdoor activities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With several universities and colleges, Sherbrooke has a significant student population, contributing to the city's vibrant culture.

Families

The city is home to many families, attracted by the quality of life, education, and recreational opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is immensely popular in Sherbrooke, with local teams and leagues attracting a dedicated following.

Football

Football (soccer) has gained popularity, with local clubs participating in regional leagues and fostering community engagement.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sherbrooke is generally manageable, with main roads and highways connecting the city to surrounding areas. Public transportation options include buses operated by the Société de transport de Sherbrooke, providing access to various parts of the city. Cycling is also a popular mode of transportation, with dedicated bike lanes in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sherbrooke.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Sherbrooke offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes are becoming more common; however, it's always best to inform the staff about dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Sherbrooke is provided through numerous hospitals and clinics, including the Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS). Residents and visitors can access emergency services and general care, with many healthcare professionals fluent in both French and English. It's advisable for visitors to have health insurance coverage that includes international travel.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide