Things To Do
in Sherbrooke
Sherbrooke is a vibrant city in the province of Quebec, Canada. It is known for its charming blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. The city is situated along the scenic Magog River, offering picturesque views and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Sherbrooke also boasts a diverse cultural scene with museums, theatres, and festivals showcasing its rich heritage.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Bois de la Friche, where you can enjoy a refreshing hike in nature. The peaceful environment will set a perfect tone for your day.
After lunch, head over to the Lac des Nations for a scenic stroll or bicycle ride along the waterfront. The views are beautiful and perfect for some relaxation.
As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant that offers sumptuous Quebecois cuisine. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music.
Start your morning with a bike ride on the Estriade, a bike path that connects you to beautiful landscapes. It's a great way to see the town from a different perspective.
Visit the Mont Bellevue Park for some outdoor sports such as frisbee or soccer. The park's facilities are perfect for a fun afternoon with friends or family.
Wrap up your active day with a healthy dinner at a local bistro. Enjoy a refreshing drink while you relax and recharge for the next day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings and access to outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and lakes.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Canadian cities.
- Strong educational institutions, including the Université de Sherbrooke.
- A vibrant cultural scene with festivals, arts, and local cuisine.
- Bilingual community with both French and English speakers, enhancing cultural diversity.
- Long, harsh winters that may not be appealing to everyone.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger urban areas.
- Public transportation options may be less comprehensive than in major cities.
- The city's economy is heavily influenced by the education sector, which can create instability.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Sherbrooke
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking in this scenic park with great views of the city.
Explore outdoor activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding along the beautiful Magog River.
Play a round of golf at one of Sherbrooke's scenic golf courses with picturesque views and challenging holes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sherbrooke with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sherbrooke
Visit one of these nice places.
Mont Bellevue Park offers stunning views of Sherbrooke and the surrounding area, with plenty of photo opportunities from the park's lookout points.
Promenade de la Gorge provides picturesque views along the Magog River, offering great photo opportunities of the river and surrounding landscapes.
Food in Sherbrooke
Sherbrooke Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Quebecois dish featuring crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. Head to La Maison de la Poutine for an authentic and indulgent experience.
Must-Try!
A classic dessert originating from Quebec, this maple syrup-sweetened cake is a must-try. Indulge in a delectable version at Restaurant Auguste where it's served with a dollop of crème fraîche.
This savory meat pie is a beloved Quebecois staple, traditionally enjoyed during holiday season. Savour a deeply satisfying rendition at Boulangerie M.L. Brien, a local bakery known for its flaky crust and hearty fillings.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sherbrooke better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this vibrant market to sample local produce, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked bread. Don't miss the food stalls offering a variety of global street food delights, from Lebanese shawarma to Vietnamese banh mi.
Experience Sherbrooke's dynamic food truck scene, where you can relish diverse cuisines such as tacos, gourmet burgers, and creative vegan bowls. Keep an eye out for the weekly Food Truck Frenzy event at Jardins de la Gare, a feast for foodies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sherbrooke, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It is also polite to use titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' when addressing someone unless you are on a first-name basis.
French is the primary language spoken in Sherbrooke, so it is respectful to learn some basic phrases in French or at least make an effort to communicate in the local language. However, many people in Sherbrooke also speak English.
Punctuality is valued in Sherbrooke, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments and meetings. Tardiness may be considered disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sherbrooke with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sherbrooke
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sherbrooke, Canada, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, bars, and other service establishments. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service.
In Sherbrooke, Canada, cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted for payment. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular in the city.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sherbrooke.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a lovely time to visit Sherbrooke, with blooming flowers and warmer temperatures. The city comes to life with outdoor activities and festivals.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Sherbrooke, with plenty of outdoor events, vibrant green landscapes, and opportunities for hiking, biking, and water activities.
Fall brings breathtaking foliage to Sherbrooke, making it a popular time for nature lovers to visit. The city is also known for its fall festivals and harvest celebrations.
Winter in Sherbrooke is a wonderland, with opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter sports. The city also hosts winter festivals and holiday events.
Sherbrooke at Night
Hiking in Sherbrooke
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just west of Sherbrooke, Mount Orford National Park features a variety of hiking trails that offer stunning views, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
A local favorite, Mont Bellevue Park offers several well-maintained trails for hiking, with scenic views of the city and surrounding areas. It's a perfect spot for a quick hike close to Sherbrooke.
About 30 minutes from Sherbrooke, this park boasts a network of hiking trails with breathtaking views, including the famous suspended bridge that spans the gorge.
A little further afield, this national park features high-altitude hiking with panoramic views, diverse landscapes, and opportunities for stargazing in one of the darkest skies in southern Quebec.
This popular hiking destination near Sherbrooke offers several trails catering to different levels, with a summit that rewards hikers with beautiful views of Sherbrooke and its surroundings.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sherbrooke through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sherbrooke by plane.
The largest airport serving Montreal, located approximately 150 km west of Sherbrooke, offering international flights to worldwide destinations.
Located approximately 250 km northeast of Sherbrooke, this airport serves as a major hub for flights to and from Québec City and offers international services.
About 150 km south of Sherbrooke, located in New York, USA, this airport offers flights to various destinations and is a key access point for travelers from Canada.
Located approximately 230 km southeast of Sherbrooke in New York, USA, this airport serves various domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The French-speaking population of Sherbrooke, representing a significant cultural and linguistic group.
The English-speaking community, which includes individuals of various backgrounds who primarily communicate in English.
Recent immigrants from various countries contributing to the cultural diversity of Sherbrooke.
Local Indigenous communities that hold historical and cultural significance in the region.
The young population, including university students attending institutions such as the Université de Sherbrooke.
Older adults, who represent an important demographic segment with specific needs and services.
The Soul of Sherbrooke
Discover the essence of Sherbrooke through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hockey is one of the most popular sports in Sherbrooke, with a strong local culture surrounding both ice hockey and youth leagues.
Soccer has a growing following in Sherbrooke, with many youth and adult leagues active throughout the year.
Basketball is popular among local schools and community leagues, with a variety of programs for different age groups.
Cycling is a favored activity in Sherbrooke, thanks to its scenic routes and numerous bicycle paths that cater to both casual riders and serious cyclists.
Swimming is a cherished recreational activity in Sherbrooke, with local pools and outdoor lakes providing excellent options for residents.
Running is a popular pastime in Sherbrooke, with several community events and running clubs that promote health and fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sherbrooke.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Sherbrooke's culinary landscape caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many eateries offering plant-based alternatives. La Petite Végé and Café Tassez-Vous are known for their imaginative vegan dishes and desserts.
For those seeking gluten-free options, Au Coin du Meunier is a standout patisserie offering a tempting array of gluten-free pastries and bread. Additionally, many restaurants in the city are accommodating to gluten-free dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sherbrooke with these cultural adventures.