Things To Do
in Saint-Lazare

Saint-Lazare is a charming town located in the province of Quebec, Canada, known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant community. Surrounded by nature, it offers a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience. The town is famous for its equestrian culture, with numerous horse farms and riding trails.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, local festivals, and a strong sense of community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parc Nature Les Forestiers-de-Saint-Lazare, where you can hike and enjoy the natural beauty. Don't forget your camera for the scenic views!

afternoon
:

Visit the local art gallery, Galerie d'Art La Vieille Caserne, to appreciate local artists' work and perhaps purchase a unique piece to take home.

evening
:

Dine at Le Garde-Manger, a local restaurant known for its seasonal dishes, followed by a stroll around the town square to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Spend the morning biking along the picturesque trails in the area. Rent a bike if you don't have one and explore the scenic routes.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market, Marché de Saint-Lazare, to sample local produce and artisanal products, and enjoy a light lunch at one of the stalls.

evening
:

End your trip with a visit to a local bar, like Le Café de l'Art, where you can enjoy live music and a vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🥖Baguette$2
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$10
🏨Hotel (1 night)$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Friendly local community
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transportation can be sparse
  • Some areas might require a car for easy access

Places to Visit in Saint-Lazare

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc Nature Les Forestiers-de-Saint-Lazare

A stunning natural park with picturesque trails and beautiful landscapes, perfect for nature photography.

Saint-Lazare Town Hall

The historic architecture of the town hall makes for a great backdrop for photos, especially during golden hour.

Marché de Saint-Lazare

The vibrant market atmosphere, with colorful stalls and friendly vendors, provides excellent candid photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Saint-Lazare

Saint-Lazare offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of local flavors and international cuisine. You'll find a variety of dining options, from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments. Don't miss the chance to try local dishes that reflect the region's agricultural richness.

Saint-Lazare Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pouding Chômeur

A classic Quebec dessert made with a simple cake topped with hot syrup, creating a delightful contrast of textures.

Must-Try!

Tourtière

A traditional meat pie made with minced pork and spices, often enjoyed during the holidays.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Saint-Lazare

A local market showcasing fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Saint-Lazare experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn are mild, offering comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Quebecois culture values politeness, so greeting with a friendly 'Bonjour' is customary.

Respect for Nature

When enjoying outdoor spaces, it's important to respect nature by staying on marked trails and not littering.

Language

While many people speak English, making an effort to speak French is appreciated and shows respect for the local culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Saint-Lazare is generally considered a safe town, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings. In winter, be cautious of icy sidewalks and roads.

Tipping in Saint-Lazare

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It’s customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants. For other services like taxis and hairdressers, rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors, especially at markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather invites locals and tourists to enjoy outdoor events, hiking, and biking. Be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Experience stunning fall foliage, perfect for photography, and various harvest festivals celebrating local produce.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snowfall create a winter wonderland, ideal for snow sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Saint-Lazare at Night

Saint-Lazare’s nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but there are a few local bars and cafes that offer live music and entertainment. Le Café de l'Art hosts regular events, making it a popular spot for locals looking to unwind. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it easy to mingle with residents.

Hiking in Saint-Lazare

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier de la Rivière

A scenic trail along the river, offering stunning views and a moderate hike suitable for families and casual hikers.

Mont Rigaud

Located a short drive away, this trail provides a more challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Airports

How to reach Saint-Lazare by plane.

Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport

Located about 50 km from Saint-Lazare, this major airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the primary gateway for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Saint-Lazare is a semi-urban area with varying walkability. While the town center and certain neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly with shops and cafes within walking distance, other areas may require a car to access. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, making strolls pleasant in the warmer months.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Saint-Lazare is a popular choice for families due to its safe environment, good schools, and community-oriented events.

Retirees

The town attracts retirees looking for a peaceful lifestyle with access to nature and community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A beloved sport in Quebec, with many local teams and leagues. Ice hockey games are a popular winter activity for locals.

Equestrian Sports

Saint-Lazare is known for its equestrian culture, with numerous horseback riding facilities and events throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Saint-Lazare is generally light, with the main roads being well-maintained. Public transportation options are limited, but the town is connected to nearby cities through a commuter train service, making it easier to access Montreal and other areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Lazare.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants in Saint-Lazare offer vegetarian and vegan options, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free

Some local eateries provide gluten-free dishes, but always confirm with staff to ensure safety.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Saint-Lazare is accessible through local clinics and hospitals in nearby cities. Emergency services are available, and residents can access various healthcare specialists. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical needs.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide