quebec trip blog

3 Days in Quebec City: The Ultimate Quebec City Itinerary

Posted on Published: February 27, 2024  - Last updated: March 9, 2024

Categories Blog , Canada , City Guides , Quebec , Quebec City , Travel Guides

Visiting Quebec City? Allow us to show you how to spend the perfect 3 days in Quebec City. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Quebec City has a little something for everyone. I’m going to showcase our Quebec City 3 day itinerary so you can use it to help plan your trip.

Justin and I have visited Quebec City on multiple occasions during many different seasons. We’ve experienced Quebec City in the summer, fall and winter. While these travel plans can be used most of the year, please feel free to reference our post about the best things to do in Quebec City in the winter if you’re traveling between December and March.

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Without further ado, here’s how to spend an incredible 3 days in Quebec City. You’ll have an overview on what to see and do each day. Also, I’ve made note of our favorite restaurants and possibilities for overnight accommodations, too.

Quick Guide to Quebec City

Here are some of the best tours, activities, attractions and lodging in Quebec City. If you’re planning your trip at the last minute and you’re looking for must do activities, look no further!

Best Tours and Activities in Quebec City

• Quebec City Walking Tour
• Guided Bike Tour of Quebec City
• Half Day Trip to Montmorency Falls
• Wine Tasting on Ile d’Orleans
• Quebec City’s Nordic Spa

Best Hotels and Accommodation in Quebec City

Le Saint Pierre Auberge Distinctive

Quebec city marriott downtown, hilton quebec.

Table of Contents

3 Days in Quebec City Map

Want to see everything visually represented on a map? Here are all the attractions, restaurants, and hotels listed in this Quebec City itinerary. Feel free to reference this map as you plan your trip or as you’re venturing on your Quebec City trip.

Save this map to your Google maps for future reference. Click the little star next to the title so you can see this map as you’re traveling around Quebec City.

3 Days in Quebec City: Getting There

As we’re from the Toronto area, we’ve both driven and flown to Quebec City. It’s about an eight hour drive for us. Flying to Quebec City is always an excellent option as the city itself is very walkable and you won’t need a car. Here’s where you can search for the best rates on flights to Quebec City .

Like I mentioned, once you’re in Old Quebec, you won’t really need a car to get around. It’s possible to walk everywhere and there’s even a funicular that connects the upper and lower areas of Old Quebec.

If you do intend on seeing any attractions outside of Old Quebec City, this is where you’ll either need a car or you’ll need to book a tour with transportation. I’ve mentioned most of these activities on the third day of this 3 days in Quebec City itinerary.

I will mention tours as we go, but it is easiest to get around if you have your own car. It’s possible to rent a car, even if only for the day. At Discover Cars, you can compare car rental prices among many companies to find the best deals. We regularly use Discover Cars when we travel and love them. Find the best car rentals in Quebec City here.

3 Days in Quebec City: Day 1

For the first day of our three days in Quebec City, we explored the city and got oriented with our new surroundings. We spent most of our time in Old Quebec. Quebec City’s old town is divided into two sections: Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville).

Upper Town is above the escarpment on Cape Diamond (Cap Diamant) and Lower Town is below the escarpment. There is both a funicular and a staircase called the “Breakneck Stairs” that connect Upper Town to Lower Town in Old Quebec. Learn more about the interesting staircases of Quebec City .

For this Quebec City 3 day itinerary, we’re going to start in Lower Town of Old Quebec. This is where Justin and I started our adventure. It’s a fabulous first impression of Quebec City as this is the oldest, most historic, and arguably, the most beautiful area.

If you love guided tours, I recommend familiarizing yourself with Quebec City by taking a walking tour. This is a great introduction to the city and allows you to learn about the city from a knowledgeable guide. Check out this Quebec City walking tour .

Place Royale

Place Royale is a historic plaza that’s home to the famous Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church. Most notably, Place Royale is where French Civilization started in North America. The square itself is very photogenic with lots of brightly painted doors and windows.

In the summer months, there are window baskets bursting with colorful flowers. During the winter, there’s a light dusting of snow everywhere, holiday decorations, and a Christmas tree in the middle of the plaza.

Be sure to take a peek inside the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church. It’s a small Roman Catholic church, built from 1687 and 1723 and restored in 1816. This church is ornately decorated inside, and there’ s a small souvenir shop as well. I also recommend enjoying a coffee on the patio or doing some shopping in this area.

If you’re visiting in the summer, it’s also possible to admire exhibits from the Passages Insolites outdoor art exhibition around Lower Town. These art installations will be around Place Royale, Quartier Petit Champlain and beyond.

Quartier Petit Champlain

Just a little beyond Place Royale, Quartier Petit Champlain is a very picturesque and popular neighborhood in Lower Town. It’s one of the most popular shopping streets with lots of local souvenir shops and treats.

It’s one of the most expensive places to shop because it’s so pretty and popular, so expect to pay a premium for some items. However, there are a few shops with unique items crafted by local artisans that you can’t find anywhere else.

Aside from the shops, there are a few small parks and some intriguing murals in Quartier Petit Champlain. When we spent 3 days in Quebec City, we walked through both Quartier Petit Champlain and Place Royale quite a few times.

I recommend visiting these popular tourist attractions earlier in the morning or in the evening because they will be most crowded in the afternoon. Now, it’s time to venture to the upper section of Old Quebec. Care to ride the funicular or walk up the Breakneck Stairs?

Ride the Funicular

I suggest riding the funicular up and taking the stairs on the way down. Be prepared to pay cash only for the funicular ride. It costs $5 for one ride and they only accept cash. There are no advance tickets, simply pay when you arrive.

The funicular is free of charge for wheelchair users and children under 46″ tall. It also accommodates strollers and pets. Please check the funicular official website for the latest details regarding opening times and prices.

Dufferin Terrace and the Chateau Frontenac

Once you reach the top, you’ll come across the iconic Chateau Frontenac , a famous hotel in the city. It is thought to be the most photographed hotel in the world, so why not join in on the fun?

It’s possible to hear musicians and singers performing on the boardwalk, Dufferin Terrace. If you’re interested, you can walk inside the Chateau Frontenac or even have a drink at the bar if you’re not staying there.

Notre Dame de Quebec Cathedral-Basilica

Though we aren’t religious, we stopped to admire the architecture and decor of the Notre Dame de Quebec . It’s the oldest parish in North America, north of Mexico. There are lavish gold decorations and beautiful stained glass windows inside the cathedral. There is also a courtyard and a garden on the grounds of the church, too.

We also had the rare opportunity to pass through the Holy Door. The Holy Door of Quebec City is the only holy door found outside of Europe, and one of only seven holy doors worldwide. Quebec City’s Holy Door was established in 2013 during the 350th anniversary of the founding of the Notre-Dame de Québec parish. It will be sealed after December 8th, 2024.

Fortifications of Quebec

As we walked up Rue Saint-Jean, we immediately noticed the gates and fortifications of Quebec City . On this Quebec City 3 day itinerary, you must see the fortifications of Quebec City and walk the walls if you can. This is one of the most unique historical attractions that makes this Canadian city so special.

Quebec City often feels more like a European city, and this contributes to the European vibes for sure. Quebec City is the only remaining walled city in North America, north of Mexico. It’s one reason why Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Starting at Porte Saint-Jean, we climbed up the stairs and walked along the old wall, passing over the city streets below. We walked above a couple of other old city gates until we eventually reached the Citadel. There are ceremonial guards and a museum to explore.

There’s also a changing of the guards ceremony that takes place daily during the summer months at 10:00am. We missed this daily ceremony, although you may want to fit it into your travel plans during your 3 days in Quebec City.

Observatoire de la Capitale

If you want to see a view of Quebec from one of the highest points in the city, take a trip up the elevator to the Observatoire de la Capitale . We spent about an hour here to fully soak up those 360 degree panoramic views. We also watched short videos about the history of Quebec.

There’s also some historical details and mementos about the Quebec Winter Carnival, including the world famous mascot, Bonhomme. This is a great attraction to visit in all seasons. For details about opening hours and prices, please take a look at their official website .

Parliament Building

The Quebec Parliament Building is very close to the Observatoire de la Capitale. We explored the exterior of the Parliament Building and its beautiful gardens. It’s a very captivating building with a variety of statues on the building itself, honoring important historical figures.

If you’re interested to see the inside of the parliament building, it’s possible to book a guided tour in French or English of the National Assembly of Quebec (you can also reserve a Spanish tour in advance). The tours are 75 minutes in length and they are free. Be sure to book your tour in advance and arrive 30 minutes before your tour begins.

Governors’ Promenade

From the Citadel, we walked along the edge of the Plains of Abraham until we reached a lengthy boardwalk between the fortification wall and the escarpment overlooking the St. Lawrence River. This boardwalk is called the Governors’ Promenade and it consists of many stairs and fantastic views.

You can spend a little more time at the Plains of Abraham before tackling the Governors’ Promenade if you choose. It’s a large park that I’d liken to Central Park in New York City or High Park in Toronto. While historic battles took place at the Plains of Abraham, it’s now a huge green space in the city where you can go for a walk or enjoy a picnic.

Back to the Governors’ Promenade, it’s a lengthy boardwalk that connects the Citadel/Plains of Abraham to the Dufferin Terrace. I suggest starting at the Citadel, so it’s mostly a downhill trek down many flights of stairs (otherwise, you’ll be walking up all of those stairs!).

Regardless, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River from an elevated perspective up on Cap Diamant. Eventually, you’ll be back where you started in Upper Town at the Chateau Frontenac/Dufferin Terrace. We made our way back down to Lower Town.

Coffee Break at Les Cafes du Soleil

Need a little caffeine boost after all that walking? We decided it was time for a mid-afternoon coffee break. While there are tons of chain coffee shops (yes, please enjoy the Tim Hortons if you don’t have one in your hometown), we always try to seek out independent coffee shops on our trips.

We ventured over to Les Cafes du Soleil in Lower Town of Old Quebec. It’s a quaint little coffee shop with only a small seating area for guests. Their coffee is absolutely delicious and definitely geared towards coffee lovers. There are coffee beans sourced from various coffee regions all over the world. I enjoyed relaxing and unwinding there after a busy day in the city.

Ferry to Levis

Taking the ferry round-trip to Levis and back is another great way to unwind at the end of the day. You’ll be able to witness the beauty of Quebec City from a new vantage point.

The ferry offers stunning views of Old Quebec, Cap Diamant, and the Chateau Frontenac. It takes approximately an hour to drift across to Levis and back. The ferry ride is one of the most inexpensive activities in Quebec City at $3.95 one way.

Besides the gorgeous views, it’s great to feel the fresh breeze off the river after walking around on a hot, summer day. Please consult the official Quebec City-Levis ferry website for the latest schedule and fare details.

3 Days in Quebec City: Day 2

It’s always good to factor in rainy day activities while traveling. It’s bound to happen, right? Thankfully, there are plenty of things to do indoors in Quebec and these were on our list anyway. I suggest saving these activities for the day when it’s most likely to rain.

There are so many great outdoor activities in Quebec, and you want to save the sunny days for those ones. Even if it doesn’t rain, you’ll want to check out these wonderful indoor attractions in Quebec City.

Musee de la Civilisation

This was an easy choice for us: the Musee de la Civilisation was right across the street from our hotel in Lower Quebec. I suggest either visiting this museum or the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec (fine art museum) during your 3 days in Quebec.

At the Civilization Museum, there was a powerful exhibit on display called Haiti in Extremes that showcased the works of Haitian artists. These expressions of creativity highlighted themes such as death and life, and living with the struggles during natural catastrophes, harsh living conditions, poverty, and political unrest.

There are also permanent installations about the history of Quebec at the museum. When you plan your visit, take a look at the museum’s website to see if there are any temporary exhibitions that catch your attention. Regardless, this is a great museum to check out if you’re a fan of history, old civilizations, or learning more about Quebec City’s past.

Street Art and Murals in Quebec City

Are you a fan of graffiti and street art? First, don’t miss the historic fresco painted on the wall of Maison Soumande on rue Notre-Dame. It’s next to Place Royale, so you can easily add this one onto your first day in Quebec City.

There are other places to view street art in Quebec City , too. We stumbled upon some graffiti and street art beneath a highway overpass. Walk along Rue Saint-Vallier E as you approach the Saint-Roch neighborhood to admire this graffiti for yourself.

You’ll likely come across even more murals in Quebec City as you explore both Old Quebec and the areas just outside of Old Quebec.

Coffee Break at Nektar Cafeologue

Nektar Cafeologue is one of those coffee shops where you feel like you could really make yourself at home. There are many places to sit, and many people hunched over their laptops working on personal projects.

It’s a great place to gather with your travel buddies. We rested our tired legs after walking all over the city with some delicious coffee. This is also one of the first places in Quebec City to offer plant-based milk for lattes and espresso beverages, so it has a special place in my heart.

Erico Chocolaterie

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, be sure to stop by Erico Chocolaterie for a scoop of ice cream (or in my case, vegan soy chocolate ice cream) and some chocolates. It’s a “creative chocolate shop and chocolate museum”, although the main feature is the chocolate shop.

J.A. Moisan

This is the oldest grocery store in North America, so we had to take a peak inside. There were a variety of interesting things for sale, although nothing that I haven’t seen elsewhere at home. I personally love visiting grocery stores when I travel, how about you?

Perhaps if you are visiting Canada or Quebec from overseas, this store may be more interesting or appealing to you. You might be able to find things like maple syrup and other typically Canadian items for less money elsewhere, though they did have a great collection of tasty treats.

Morrin Centre

The Morrin Centre is a must see attraction in Quebec City. Definitely include this one on your Quebec City 3 day itinerary, even if you aren’t a huge fan of tourist attractions. This one is unlike any that we’ve visited elsewhere.

The Morrin Centre is Quebec City’s first prison, English college, English cultural center and English library. The building has such a fascinating history and the guided tour lasts about an hour. We learned a lot about the history of Quebec City from our guide interwoven with details about the Morrin Centre.

Place Royale and La Pizz for the Patio

After our time at the Morrin Centre, we walked back down to Old Quebec’s Lower Town to Place Royale. We chose a little restaurant with a lovely patio (La Pizz) and ordered a pitcher of sangria to savor.

It’s a fabulous place to relax, chat and people watch. Thankfully, it had stopped raining by that point, too! I highly recommend stopping for a meal, a drink, or a snack as you can’t beat stopping on a patio in Place Royale in the middle of all the action.

An Evening Stroll in Old Quebec

As day became night, we went for a short walk around Place Royale, Quartier Petit Champlain, and around the Notre Dame de Quebec in Upper Town. Quebec City has an entirely different vibe at night once most of the tourists have left for the day. It is very quiet and peaceful.

Quebec City is extremely safe, so you don’t have to worry about wandering around when it gets dark outside. Also be forewarned: many restaurants are closed after 9:00pm, which seems very early to me (particularly in Lower Town). Be sure to eat before 9:00pm or check the restaurant hours.

3 Days in Quebec City: Day 3

It’s time for the third day of this Quebec City 3 day itinerary. Since we drove to Quebec City from Toronto for this trip (about an eight hour drive), we had the freedom to drive outside of the city.

If you’re interested in visiting any of the below attractions but you don’t have a car, I make some suggestions within the individual blog posts about each attraction about how to get there. Renting a car is a good idea, too.

These destinations are home to some of the gorgeous natural locations outside of Quebec City. Montmorency Falls and Ile d’Orleans are not far from Quebec City at all. In fact, Montmorency Falls is still within Quebec City itself. If you love nature, waterfalls, or quaint countryside, be sure to check out these beautiful gems.

Ile d’Orleans

Ile d’Orleans is an island just outside of Quebec City across the St. Lawrence River. It is thought of as the Cornucopia of Quebec as the people rely on farming traditions to sell fresh produce, preserves, wine, and more.

We spent a few hours here circling the island to view beautiful scenery and taste the fresh fruits and veggies. Many people ride their bikes around the perimeter of Ile d’Orleans.

Driving a car around Ile d’Orleans allows you to spend half a day on the island while seeing most of its sights. We stopped for lunch here and sampled wine and fresh produce on our ventures around the island.

Don’t have access to a car? This guided tour includes transportation to Ile d’Orleans from Quebec City, as well as multiple stops at wineries around the island.

Canyon Sainte-Anne

If you love waterfalls, you will love Canyon Sainte-Anne . About a half hour away from Quebec City in the town of Beaupre, Canyon Sainte-Anne offers scenic hiking trails and incredible views of a spectacular canyon from multiple positions, including a bridge that’s suspended across the gorge.

Spend a couple of hours at Canyon Saint-Anne hiking around all of the trails and walking across the suspension bridges. It’s a little bit of a drive outside of the city, but it’s one of the best day trips from Quebec City.

Montmorency Falls

While we elected to visit Montmorency Falls on following morning before we drove home from Quebec City, you can fit it into your day after visiting Canyon Sainte-Anne. If you want to visit all three places in one day, make sure that you get an early start to the day. I don’t want you to feel too rushed!

It’s also possible to reach Montmorency Falls by bicycle or public transportation. It is a breathtaking waterfall that’s even higher than Niagara Falls. If there’s one day trip from Quebec City that you should take, it’s a trip to Montmorency Falls.

We spent at least a couple of hours there, witnessing this beautiful waterfall from up above and down below. There’s a cable car that will transport you from the top to the base of the falls. Walk across the suspension bridge at the top, and view the waterfall from multiple vantage points from down below.

Don’t have a car? Take this tour to Montmorency Falls that includes a bonus stop at Ste-Anne-de-Beaupre. Not only will you see this beautiful waterfall, but you’ll also visit the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré and Quebec City’s countryside / Beaupre Coast.

Cycling along the River in Quebec City

If you’re looking for more things to do in Quebec City, I suggest cycling along the river for an hour or two. While we borrowed bicycles from our hotel (Hotel 71), there are several places where you can rent bikes in Quebec City. Pre-book your bike rental so you don’t need to figure it out when you arrive.

There are many bike paths throughout the city so you can do a self-guided tour. If you prefer bike tours, it’s possible to book a guided bike tour in historic Old Quebec that includes bike rentals.

3 Days in Quebec City: Restaurants and Dining

Throughout your 3 days in Quebec City, you’ll be looking for the best restaurants and dining options. As we follow a vegan diet, we found all of the best places to accommodate a vegetarian and vegan lifestyle in Quebec City.

For a full listing, take a look at our Quebec City vegan guide . Here are a few of our top picks, even if you don’t follow a vegan or vegetarian diet.

Le Monastère des Augustines

The restaurant at this  Quebec City monastery  is a hidden gem. Le Monastere des Augustines is a hotel, wellness center, museum, shop and restaurant. You don’t need to stay at the hotel or frequent the wellness centre to dine at the restaurant, though I recommend checking out the museum while you’re here.

The restaurant at Le Monastere des Augustines focuses on healthy, fresh, and organic meals. There’s always a vegan and vegetarian option for a main course. Your meal includes unlimited trips to the salad bar, which is completely vegan.

Chez Victor

Chez Victor  is a gourmet burger restaurant in Quebec City that’s been an institution since 1991. When we visited Quebec City, there were four locations. Now, there are several locations in Quebec City and two in Levis across the river. There’s even a Chez Victor food truck!

There are three vegan burgers: Le Veganator (seitan patty), Le Verguez (vegetable patty), and Le Champoulet Frit (fried mushrooms). They’ve also introduced a vegan poutine to the menu since we last visited, as well as a vegan chocolate cake.

Don Végane

Don Vegane  is Quebec City’s first vegan restaurant. This beautiful restaurant is the perfect place to meet your friends or go for a date night. There are a variety of starters and main courses that will tempt every palate.

To start, choose from tostadas, Caesar salad, dumplings, panko cauliflower or a Thai soup. For the entree, try the bibimbap, spaghetti Bolognese, beet tartar, mushroom risotto, curry masala or others. There are also plant-based desserts and a wide array of cocktails and mocktails.

3 Days in Quebec City: Where to Stay

We’ve had the opportunity to stay at four different hotels in Quebec City: two in Upper Town and two in Lower Town. Justin and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at all four hotels, although the two in Lower Town had the most character out of them all. We’ll provide a brief overview of all four so you can decide accordingly.

Le Saint Pierre Auberge Distinctive is an enchanting boutique hotel that will make your stay extra special. It’s likely our number one hotel choice for this Quebec City 3 day itinerary.

This property feels like its straight out of Europe as it’s inside a beautiful, historic building. I really loved the exposed brick walls, and there are so many fascinating details about the room that are original to the structure.

BOOK YOUR STAY  |  READ MORE REVIEWS

Hotel 71 is almost next door to Le Saint Pierre Auberge in Old Quebec’s Lower Town. The building itself is an old architectural gem, once home to the National Bank of Canada. However, the design and decor of Hotel 71 has a modern flair.

We adored the contemporary elegance and the views of the St. Lawrence River from our room. It’s also wonderful to always have access to delicious coffee, both in the room and downstairs in the public seating area.

Quebec City Marriott Downtown is located in Old Quebec’s Upper Town, and it’s a fabulous place to stay when spending an extended weekend in Quebec City. It’s right outside Place D’Youville at the Saint Jean gate of the fortifications.

This is an ultra modern hotel in the middle of it all. You can easily walk to all major attractions from here. There’s also a restaurant on site, as well as a fitness center.

BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

Hilton Quebec , also in Upper Town of Old Quebec, is in the perfect vacation for this Quebec City 3 day itinerary. It’s a very modern hotel with many amenities, including a gym and a heated outdoor pool.

One of my favorite parts of the Hilton Quebec was the impressive lounge on the 23rd floor. Relax with a coffee here during the day or enjoy a meal or a cocktail at night. Regardless, the views of the city are some of the best you’ll see!

3 Days in Quebec City in Winter

Justin and I have been fortunate to visit Quebec City in late November and February, enjoying the holiday season in Quebec City as well as winter celebrations. Justin and I attended the thrilling ATSX ice cross competition (formerly known as Red Bull Crashed Ice ), which doesn’t come to Quebec City every year (but definitely check it out when it does!).

There are so many reasons to visit Quebec City in the winter, including events and festivities. Quebec City looks so beautiful with a dusting of snow; it’s pure magic. It’s truly one of my favorite times of year to visit. Here’s how to plan your perfect Quebec City winter itinerary .

Quebec City Christmas Market

If you’re visiting at the end of November through December, you absolutely must check out the Quebec City Christmas Market . It’s the best holiday market that I’ve visited in Canada, hands down.

The Quebec City Christmas Market is an authentic German market with delicious food, mulled wine, and vendors selling traditional handicrafts. It’s a fun event for the whole family.

Stay at the Ice Hotel

Another amazing reason to visit Quebec City in the winter months is an opportunity to spend the night at the ice hotel. Hotel de Glace is the only ice hotel in North America, and it’s a bucket list adventure that you should do at least once in your lifetime.

There’s nothing quite like sleeping on an ice bed, drinking at the ice bar, and then there’s the question…where do you go to the bathroom? Read all of the insider details of our stay at Quebec’s Ice Hotel .

Go Tubing at Village Vacances Valcartier

The ice hotel is part of a larger complex called Village Vacances Valcartier , which is the ultimate winter playground. There are tons of tubing hills where we had so much fun.

You can also partake in other winter festivities, like rolling maple syrup taffy in snow. Check out how we had a blast and felt like kids again at Village Vacances Valcartier.

Attend Carnaval de Quebec

And the ultimate reason to visit Quebec City in the winter? The Quebec Winter Carnival , of course! Rub shoulders with the world famous mascot, Bonhomme, and participate in a variety of winter festivities.

There’s an ice castle, ice sculptures, a toboggan hill outside the Chateau Frontenac, a parade, and all sorts of other celebrations of winter. If you are looking to embrace winter, you’ll have to schedule your Quebec City 3 day itinerary during the Quebec Winter Carnival.

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Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Saturday 18th of November 2023

What a terrific review. I am thinking in spending three days in Quebec during the Xmas holiday. Your guide provides me with a good tour at hand. Thank you!

Lauren Yakiwchuk

Monday 20th of November 2023

Thanks so much, Beatriz! You might be interested in our guide to visiting Quebec City over Christmas, too! Here it is: https://justinpluslauren.com/quebec-city-christmas/

Wednesday 8th of June 2022

hi there, thanks so much for your gear review of Quebec City. it will help me out a lot next year.

Wendy Frankel

Thursday 7th of April 2022

Thank you so much for your detailed list of things to see. It really helped us outline our trip. Can you add additional locations for great ice cream!!

Happy you found it helpful! We really enjoyed the ice cream at Erico Chocolatier when we visited.

Wednesday 10th of April 2019

Hopefully I can make a trip there this summer to check out all these spots!

Wednesday 30th of November 2016

What a detailed itinerary! My girlfriend and I will be visiting the city in December and this guide is super helpful in giving us some ideas on what to check out.

I especially loved your article about the stairs and the funicular as well. Can't wait to explore the city!

Thanks guys!!

A Quebec City Itinerary Guide for 1-3 Days

Trying to plan the perfect Quebec City itinerary? Just check the post below for recommendations for 1-3 days as well as tips for visiting!

My Canadian friend, Alyshia, and I made our way to Québec City as part of our two week road trip through Québec and Ontario. Since we’d started in Montréal, it made perfect sense to pop up to the province’s capital for a few days. Below is a full recommendation on what to depend on how many days you have!

Quick QuÉbec City Travel Tips

• Getting in: If you’re driving, know it’s an easy 3 hours from Montréal. For those flying, the closest airport is Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport. It’s about 25-30 minutes from Old Québec. From there you can take Bus 76 ( see stops here ) or Bus 80 ( see stops here ) to the city center. Otherwise use Uber or Eva, and, of course, you can always book a private transfer .
• Where to Stay: You pretty much have two options – staying in Old Québec or a little outside of the main area. I’ll go into specifics below.
• Money Matters: Québec City and Canada in general are very card-friendly. I don’t think I ever needed to take out cash.
• Stay in Touch: U.S. phone plans should work just fine in Canada. I don’t recall seeing any difference in speed/connection.
• Getting Around: You can walk everywhere in Old Québec, and you’ll just want a car for Île d’Orléans. If you use Uber at all, just allow 10-15 minutes for arrival.

Where to Stay in Québec City

If you want to be as central as possible and don’t have a car, I’d recommend staying in Old Québec.

Outside of Historic Part

Since we drove it made way more sense for us to stay a little ways outside of Old Québec. The best option I found with free parking was Hotel Le Boc . It’s a former monastery and I think also is partially residential.

Can You Do Quebec City as a Day Trip?

I’m assuming you’re asking as a day trip from Montréal since that would be the closest city. (If you’re talking Ottawa or Toronto – definitely not!) My answer is: kind of . It really depends on what you want to do in Québec City and how quickly you want to travel.

Technically, you can visit in a day as long as you don’t mind having 6 hours of transport over all as Montréal and Québec City are about 3 hours apart. I found this day tour option which is great if you’re not driving and want to squeeze it in. It includes Place Royale, the Plains of Abraham, Quartier Petit Champlain, Montmorency Falls, and some free time in Old Québec, and it overall should be 12 hours start to finish.

I think this is a nice enough option and gives you a good overview of the city, but if you can, I’d say you’ll enjoy the city more with 2 or 3 days. It’s a very cute city, so I don’t recommend rushing through it!

Our Quebec Itinerary: 3D/3N

The way our overall itinerary worked had us in Québec City for 3 nights in total – arriving from Montréal during the afternoon on Day 1 and leaving earlier in the morning on Day 4 for Ottawa (a 5+ hour drive). Depending on your trip or how you’re getting around, this Québec itinerary could easily be altered to be for 2 full days and 1 night, arriving early in the morning on Day 1 and leaving at the end of the day on Day 2. Up to you! But here’s exactly how our trip went so you can copy or adapt as you need to.

Day 1: Arrive in Québec City

We arrived to Québec earlier in the afternoon. Once we got checked into our hotel, freshened up, and attempted to make dinner reservations (no luck), we were ready to stretch our legs a bit around golden hour.

Get dropped off in front of Fairmont Chateau

A good starting point for some wandering is the Fairmont Chateau Le Frontenac . Alyshia plugged this into Uber and we walked around from there. (Obviously if you’re staying here, you’ve already saved yourself 15 minutes). The hotel is kind of the focal point of Old Québec and really adds to the feeling of being in some cute European city! Despite its castle-like architecture, it’s always been used as a hotel since its construction in 1893. In fact, it’s got a history all its own separate from any sort of royalty as it’s part of Canada’s grand railway hotels.

Inspiration for Chateau Le Frontenac comes from the Loire Valley in France, and its name comes from Louise de Buade, Count of Fontenac, the Governor General of New France during the late 1600s. In its time, it’s hosted the likes of Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill as well as was seen in the Hitchcock film, I Confess , and, for my fellow K-drama fans , Guardian: The Lonely and Great God .

If you’re curious about the interiors and aren’t staying here, then you can always eat at one of its restaurants or book a 1-hr small group tour .

Wander around Old Québec near Place d’Armes

Pretty much as soon as we exited into Old Québec, I fell in love! I’m sure Alyshia heard me squeal “cute” more times than she’ll ever need to again.

But it’s true! From the Fairmont, you’re looking at a small square that wraps around Place d’Armes and looks straight out of a storybook! We started walking a bit towards the Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec entrance as it’s a bit of a boardwalk and gives you views over the river to the town of Levis. We then basically walked around a bit hoping to find somewhere that had an opening and looked good.

Dinner at Restaurant Pub D’Orsay

We lucked out when we passed by Restaurant Pub D’Orsay at the corner between Rue des Jardins and Rue de Buade. They were one of the places we tried to book a reservation at only for it to be full. Not only did they have an opening for two, they had them right outside with a view of the Notre Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral. And on top of that we came about 5 minutes before a big family group came, whoo hoo!

Anyway, the food at D’Orsay is always delicious. Being in the most French city in Canada, we, of course, ordered French onion soup to start! Then I split off to Spain ordering seafood paella while Alyshia got clams. Deliciousness all around.

By the time we finished, it was getting dark and most shops were close. We walked around a little more and even stopped into a cute little Christmas shop before heading back to our hotel. (And subsequently binge-watching half of season 2 of “Outer Banks” lol).

Day 2: Île d’Orléans

We spent most of day 2 driving around (although there still wound up being a decent amount of walking)! It actually came at a perfect time since we’d just walked a billion steps all over Montréal, so the thought of mostly sitting down sounded perfect to me. If you go past Old Québec, you can find Montmorency Falls and the very scenic Île d’Orléans.

Breakfast at Bugel de Fabrique

First things first – a little breakfast. I walked over to Bügel de Fabrique , which was all of 2 minutes on foot from our hotel and picked us up some bagels and coffee. The shop has been around since 1987 and I imagine pretty popular with locals. It was busy when I went in, and they’ve got a ton of bagel and bagel sandwich options! I do recommend looking up the menu online because it’s only in French in the shop and, lol, my French is not good enough to know bagel types and breakfast terms.

Drive to Montmorency Falls (2ish hours)

Anyhow, once we ate and were ready to go, we drove over to Montmorency Falls ! At first we kinda thought we’d just drive by, stop to take a pic, and continue on to Île d’Orléans but that’s definitely not the case. Its actually more of a park around the falls, so you can only access if you buy a ticket in. There are 3 different parking lots, two above the falls and one down below, so in all you get 3 different viewpoints. I’d give myself an hour to two hours depending on how much you want to do. If you want to do the full walk, I’d park down below so you start out climbing up the stairs and end going down.

We didn’t know any of this, so we parked at the main entrance, walked across the bridge and the first few levels of the stairs. Then we went back and drove to the bottom parking lot to see from there before moving on.

Drive around Île d’Orléans

Now time for a scenic drive! Île d’Orléans reminds me a bit of my little day trip to Mayne Island from Vancouver. Canada really has the cutest islands, especially in the summer! It’s very small and is basically just one loop around with one bridge across.

The island was one of the first areas colonized by the French and many French Canadians can trace their family history back here. As a result it has a number of wineries, fromageries, and homes from the 17th century. I’m not sure how it is in the winter, but when we drove around in the summer we were treated to pretty views and lots of cute shops and farmer’s stands.

Lunch at Bistro du Hangar

We were hungry after the unexpected time spent at Montmorency Falls, so we went looking for lunch. Our first place, Restaurant de Plage, was closed, so we drove a bit to Bistro du Hangar . It’s a very casual eatery with good poutine and wings!

Walk around a bit

You’ll notice driving in and around that Île d’Orléans is full of the cutest storefronts and houses. Bistro du Hangar is in a particularly cute area that’s perfect for walking around after you’ve finished lunch. We strolled down to the Quai de Saint-Jean, which has some nice views of the water. If you want to relax, you can actually bring along a chair to sit out and enjoy the peace!

Pick up some strawberries (or whatever produce is in season when you visit)

We continued our drive around the island, stopping off randomly when we saw somewhere cute! I did want to make sure I picked up some strawberries before we left, and the spot we wound up stopping at was Ferme Laval Gagnon . They even had a huge strawberry painted on the side, which we thought was cute! There was a bunch of produce and other goods for sale when we stopped in. I picked up some cute illustrated cards with my strawberries.

If you want to get more into the food of the island, there’s this tasting tour which goes way more into it than we did.

Grab ice cream and a drink at Cassis Monna & Filles

We still had some time to kill before our dinner reservation back in Old Québec, so we popped into Cassis Monna & Filles . They’re a family-owned business that specializes in black currant alcohol. They have a really lovely outdoor seating area with an ice cream shop on top and a wine and alcohol shop on the bottom. Alyshia got some sangria, and I got some black currant ice cream.

There are actually a lot of wineries around the island, so if you want you could turn this day trip into a bit of a winery tour!

Dinner at Don Vegan

Day 2 finished off with the adventure of driving to Don Vegan and eating some delicious food. No joke, do not recommend trying to drive in Old Québec if you can help it. Alyshia had to take over to find parking because I was getting too stressed lol.

Anyhow, Don Vegan is Québec City’s very first 100% vegan restaurant, and they offer quite a range of dishes and cocktails. We split the panko cauliflower as our appetizers while I got the carbonada spaghetti and Alyshia got the burrito bowl for our main course.

We were pretty exhausted by the time we finished dinner, so we headed back to our hotel! I ate my strawberries for dessert, and we finished the rest of Outer Banks season 2.

Day 3: All Around Québec City

Our last full day in Québec City! This day was all about properly visiting Old Québec and a whole lotta walking. Besides getting breakfast, sugar pie, and going back into the historic center, we didn’t have any specific plans and just sort of went where we felt like going. It led to some very cute discoveries as this entire city is full of charm!

Breakfast at a Cafe Le Cousins

Wanting to find somewhere to sit inside for breakfast, we plugged in cafes into Google Maps and started walking. We did stop in this bookstore along the way but alas it was all French. Cafe Le Cousins seemed like it had proper food, so we went in there. I wouldn’t say it’s a total cafe vibe; it’s more cafe/bakery, so people are coming in and out and not really sitting down to eat. Good food though! Alyshia got the quiche, and I got this apple/brie croissant sandwich and, of course, coffee while we mapped out our route for the morning.

Walk to Plains d’Abraham / Garden of Joan of Arc

From there we head over to the Plaines d’Abraham. It’s a pretty large area and is made famous because of the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759. Part of the American French and Indian War and the European Seven Years’ War, it’s notable for being the place where the British defeated the French.

We didn’t go too much into the park as there’s not a whole lot to see beyond the landscapes and views, but we did stop in to the very pretty Joan of Arc garden and walked along the northern perimeter.

Stop into St-Huberts for sugar pie

If you’re walking along Wilfrid-Laurier Ave, you’ll want to turn right onto Pl. George-V Ouest and then left onto Grand Allée Estate to find Rotisserie St-Hubert right at the corner. It might not be on the menu, but ask for the sugar pie and enjoy pure sweet goodness.

Sugar pie is one of the must-eats anywhere Québec province, and St-Huberts has at least one location everywhere. It comes from Northern France and Belgium and is, as you might expect, made with a lot of sugar. YUM!

Walk over to Parliament Gardens

From there, head over to Québec City’s parliament building and gardens . It’s been used for the National Assembly of Quebec and has been around since 1886. I think you can do a tour of the interior, but we just walked the gardens. On the one side they have all the “founders” of Canada, so I put Alyshia’s history classes to use and asked her who they all were.

Walk along Rue Saint-Louis

From here you can just walk along Rue Saint-Louis. It’ll bring you past the old city citadel and along a lot of pretty house and storefronts. Don’t forget to turn down the smaller roads and alleys like Rue Donnaconna for charming views.

Walk down to Dufferin Terrace

We saw all these cool view of the Chateau that we hadn’t seen in person yet, so we found ourselves walking down to a boardwalk like area past where we’d gone on our first night. If you plug in Dufferin Terrace into Google Maps, that’ll take you to the right place. If it seem

s a little crowded at first, just keep walking and it empties out very quickly! Sit under one of the fun green and white vintage-styled gazebos, photograph the best view of the castle, and enjoy the people watching.

Walk over to Rue de Baude and Rue Port Dauphin/Fort St

Another cool view and on your way to the next stop of the day is between Rue de Buade and Rue Port Dauphin/Fort St by the Louis S. St Laurent Building.

Walk down Cote de la Montagne to Escalier Casse-Cou

From here walk down Cote de laa Montagne, through the Prescott Gate and to the top of the Escalier Casse-Cou , the oldest staircase in the city. This will bring you to probably one of the cutest streets in all of Québec City, which is saying a lot!

Stroll around Rue du petit Champlain

If you take the funicular down, this is where it’ll drop you off as well. It literally looks like it belongs in some old European fairytale, and I’m sure in the winter it looks straight out of a Christmas card. It’s a mix of stores and restaurants and just one straight path through to the road and St. Lawrence River.

Dinner at Le Lapin Sauté

We stopped off to eat at Le Lapin Sauté , which, yes, translate to The Sautéed Rabbit. As you might guess, most of their dishes are rabbit-based and absolutely delicious. Opt for a seat outside! We split their Québec cheeses and white wine fondue as an appetizer while I ordered the duck sauce and rabbit leg cassoulet and Alyshia ordered the hot-duck Européen-style with homemade sauerkrout. Nearby is also the mural, Fresque du Petit-Champlain, which is supposed to show the history of Cap-Blanc, the working-class neighborhood of the city.

Walk down to Umbrella Alley

After we finished, we walked the rest of the street before turning and going up the Umbrella Alley. This whole area has different art pieces including some random cars flipped upside down and figures swinging from the roofs. Looks like they changed out the colors of the umbrella sometimes, though I’m not sure how often. When we went, the umbrellas were blue.

As a bonus, you get another cool view of the Chateau from below. To me, this is when it looked the most like Hogwarts!

Walk to Place Royale and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires

Also in this same area is Place Royale and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires. This is the oldest stone church in the whole continent, and Place Royale was built all the way back in 1688. This is the exact where Samuel de Champlain established Québec City, building the first permanent settlement for the French.

Finish with the Quebec City Mural

Our last stop of the day was this stunning mural called the Fresque des Québécois. It’s suppose to illustrate the European story of the city with different historical figures woven into the different seasons. There’s a plaque nearby that tells you who each person is suppose to do. The mural itself was painted by 12 different artists over 9 weeks in 1999.

And there you have it – tips for your own Quebec Itinerary for 1 – 3 days! Let me know if we missed anything (don’t need much temptation to head back)!

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Quebec city blog — the fullest quebec city travel guide for first-timers.

Quebec dubbed the “Old Town of Europe on American soil”. This is a political center, a miniature France of Canada that you will feel the antiquity when you set foot in. Do you love the charming city of Quebec, like its bustling, vibrant and beautiful landscapes, attractive tourist places? And do you want to set foot in this land in one day? So, before you come, let’s pocket the Quebec travel experiences that have been compiled from the travelers who once visit here to have the most enjoyable and perfect trip. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Quebec city, Canada for the first-time? Let’s check out our Quebec city blog (Quebec city travel blog, Quebec travel blog) with the fullest Quebec city travel guide (Quebec city guide, Quebec city tourist guide, Quebec city visitor guide, Quebec travel guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• Visit Quebec and explore the fascinating Quebec Winter Carnival
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Note: Do not confuse the province of Quebec with Quebec City. The province of Quebec, located in the northeast of Canada, occupies nearly one-sixth of Canada’s total land area, making it the largest of Canada’s 10 provinces by area and second only to Ontario in terms of population. The capital of the province of Quebec, Quebec City is the oldest city in Canada. The majority of Quebec’s population lives in the southern regions of the province where temperatures are warmer and the St. Lawrence river is the source of water and rich soil for its inhabitants.

Quebec city blog: Overview of Quebec city

The canada’s oldest city.

Before visiting, we also learned a little about Quebec. In 1935, the French maritime explorer Jacques Cartier came to this land and called it New France (Nouvelle France). At that time, this place was called Stadacona with about 1,000 natives of the Iroquois and Algonquin Indian tribes. Because of local resistance and severe winter weather, Jacques Cartier eventually had to return to France.

More than half a century later, it was the French explorer Samuel de Champlain who actually had started to build Quebec City in 1608. Champlain was honored as the “Father of the New France”, becoming governor-general who ruled the territory until his death in 1635.

Later, through many wars, the British defeated the French and took possession of the Canadian territory. France lost its right to rule the Quebec region, but more than half a million French here still maintain French cultural traditions and activities.

The “Special Status” of Quebec City

Currently, in a unified Canada, the province of Quebec is granted a “special status” with its own culture, language, and customs. On November 27, 2006, the Parliament of Canada passed a motion to recognize “the people of Quebec (Quebecois ) form a nation within a united Canada”. The province of Quebec has a population of around 8.4 million, while Quebec City has a population of nearly 833,000 (2022).

In Quebec, the most commonly used language is French, but in the tourist center, you can use English to communicate regularly. If you want to learn a few French words to satisfy your curiosity, you can learn some common French phrases or sentences when traveling to Montreal, Quebec.

Quebec city blog: When should you visit Quebec?

Someone once asked me which season of the year is the most beautiful to travel to Quebec, and I replied that every season in Quebec is beautiful, each season has its own beauty with different landscapes but all are extremely beautiful. In spring, the trees are lush and the flowers are blooming everywhere, in the summer the sun shines brightly to adorn the bright space, in the autumn is filled with red maple leaves, and in the winter is pure white snow. So, you can visit Quebec City at any time of the year. But if you are a lover of summer weather with lively outdoor parties or art shows, then go in July. However, the best time to visit Quebec that is in the winter when you can take part in winter activities such as skiing, snowmobiles, ice fishing, participate in winter festivals…

Festivals in Quebec

Festivals and parties are an important part of experiencing Quebec’s fun life. Winters in Quebec get chilly, so people often celebrate the Carnaval du Quebec (Quebec Winter Carnival), a week of snowy fun in Quebec City every February, to stay warm and happy. The festival’s mascot, the snowman Bonhomme, is a beloved Quebecois figure leading the daily Carnaval Parades through the city.

Quebec is also home to famous international events, such as the largest international comedy festival Just for Laughs, as well as the largest jazz festival in the world, Jazz Fest, Cirque du Soleil. The gymnastics and world-touring circus theater, is another Quebec creation. Many music, food, and arts festivals take place in cities across Quebec throughout the year, so there’s always celebration.

Quebec city travel guide: Getting to Quebec

From toronto to quebec.

All flights to Quebec will land at Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB).

I went from Toronto straight to Quebec City by Air Canada, it only took me nearly 2 hours to get there. One thing to note is that if you buy tickets on Air Canada and book with the hotel, you will get a lot of good deals. But after arriving at the Quebec airport, you should take a taxi or Uber to the city center instead of bus ($34.25/trip), because bus 78 only runs from Monday to Friday with the last trip at 4:30PM, quite inconvenient.

When I arrived at Quebec airport (YQB), it was a bit early, so I decided to walk to pick up bus 79, then pick up 80 and 800 to go back to the hotel, riding while enjoying the view. It took about 2 hours. Although I came to this city for the first time, fortunately I did not get lost. Thanks Google Maps 🙂

In addition, if you have abundant time, you can go from Toronto to Montreal. Then from Montreal buy a ticket to Quebec. Although it takes a lot of time, more than 9 hours, but it is much more saving than going by plane. If you are strong, it should take this way. You will have a comfortable travel time in two famous cities in Quebec.

Quebec Canada travel guide: Getting around Quebec

Exploring Quebec, walking is the most relaxing and economical way of travel. Renting a car in the morning and sometimes find a parking space in the center, it’s already dark, unless you want to travel to suburban areas.

Bus is also a fairly common means of transport, but the waiting is tiring. The price for each trip is $3.5CAD or buying a day ticket costs about $8.5CAD. If you want to know where to buy tickets, you can check on the RTCQuebec website.

In addition, taxis and Uber are also quite good means of commuting. Before I came, rumor has it that this service has left Quebec, but when I opened the app and see it running as usual.

Quebec city blog: Where to go, what to do?

Old quebec (quebec city old town).

Quebec is divided into two distinct parts: The modern district and the Old Town. We stayed at a hotel in a modern neighborhood, where there are many high-rise buildings, bank headquarters, corporate offices, government offices, like other cities in North America. The focus of our visit is the old town, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1985. One thing in particular that makes the landscape of the old town of Quebec is unique, that is it was divided into two areas: The Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and the Lower Town (Basse-Ville). The entire Old Town has an area of ​​11km2, this is a special feature of Québec, creating a unique, strange and attractive beauty that few cities in the world have.

Upper Town, or Haute-Ville in French, is located on Cape Diamond, with craggy cliffs. Standing here, looking down, visitors can look directly down the Saint Lawrence river that surrounds part of the city and the vast unspoiled fields stretching far into the distance.

Upper Town is extremely crowded and bustling, on both sides of the road are houses with bold European architecture mixed with bakeries, eateries, cafes, lovely souvenir shops crowded with people in and out.

Upper Town has typical European-style castle architectural style of the 17th and 18th centuries, with outstanding works such as Dufferin Terrace, Château Frontenac castle, City Hall, Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, Laval University… and especially in the center of Upper Town still stand two black bronze statues up to 15 meters high with sculptures of Jacques Cartier and Samuel de Champlain – two French explorers who had great merits in giving birth to this land.

It would be wonderful to strolling around Quebec old town on a snowy winter day, holding a warm cup of coffee to enjoy while wriggling through the small alleys. The old red brick walls, or the moss-colored stone works of the time, or the small houses with lovely flower trellises by the windows… are the most beautiful scenes of Upper Town.

Below the Upper Town is the Lower Town (Basse-Ville). The fastest and most convenient way to get down to Lower Town is to sit in the Funicular cabin and slide down the steep slopes, sitting inside the cabin you can enjoy the wonderful scenery of Québec. Alternatively, visitors can walk along the terraced path to go down, quite laborious, but in return it is a new experience and is fully absorbed in the view of the city’s landscape without limit of vision.

If Upper Town with magnificent castles, wide streets, then Lower Town is a place of idyllic beauty, full of vibrant life. The narrow, winding roads will lead visitors to extremely interesting and unexpected places. If you are a lover of exploration activities, you will find wriggling through these alleys extremely interesting.

The atmosphere in Old Town is truly like a carnival. From a young age, I attended a French school, absorbing the humanistic culture of France, so anything related to France I feel very close to. So, for me personally, Quebec is very close. And compared to the Canadian cities I’ve visited (Vancouver, Victoria, Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto), I think Quebec is the most beautiful one.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

The castle Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, known locally as simply Frontenac Castle, was built for the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1894 and and is the heart of the Quebec city and the symbol of the nation of Canada. The castle is located in a favorable location, on the highest peak of the Cape Diamond, built in the 1990s. The castle has architectural style similar to European castles of previous centuries with copper pointed roofs.

Today the castle is a luxury hotel with 650 rooms, the resting place of many heads of state when visiting Canada. The castle is also known as the most photographed place in the world, the unique features of the castle are the walls, interior decorated with mosaics, fireplaces and stairs made of marble which originating from the Petit Trianon castle (Small castle on the grounds of Palace of Versailles for the mistress of King Louis XV, Madame de Pompadour lived).

Frontenac is a popular and beloved gathering place for Quebec citizens. They often visit the castle every afternoon tea (Thursday and Saturday) or come to enjoy fruit drinks, famous Italian martinis in intimate evenings in the chain of hotels: Winston Churchill, FD Roosevelt and Maurice Duplessis of the castle. And especially, in front of the hotel is Terrasse Dufferin (Dufferin Terrace), with an elevated view of the St. Lawrence River. If you continue to go, it will lead to a trail extending to La Citadelle de Quebec and the Plains of Abraham.

Address: 1 Rue des Carrières, Québec, QC G1R 4P5, Canada

Museum of Civilization (Musée de la civilisation)

This is where I find it most interesting. The museum displays and teaches a lot about the history of human development and the founding of French America.

Address: 85 Rue Dalhousie, Québec, QC G1K 8R2, Canada Hours: 10AM–5PM/Monday: Closed

Quebec National Museum of Fine Arts

The Quebec National Museum of Fine Arts is said to be one of the most concentrated places of the visual arts industry. Here you will enjoy the contemporary exhibitions of famous artists or walk around the Battlefield Park and visit the Pavillon at the entrance that shaped like a star.

Address: 179 Grande Allée O, Québec, QC G1R 2H1, Canada Hours: 10AM–5PM/Monday: Closed

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral

This is a famous architecture in Quebec, designed by architect Charles Baillairgé and completed in 1844. The interior of the church is quite monumental with vivid paintings on the glass door frame and especially the golden statues (yellow, but I don’t know if it’s real gold or not :D) right in the middle of the hall.

Address: 16 Rue De Buade, Québec, QC G1R 4A1, Canada

Citadelle of Quebec

Located opposite the river St. Lawrence, this is a fortress built in 1832 and is still used today as a military base and also as a museum to welcome visitors.

Address: 1 Côte de la Citadelle, Québec, QC G1R 3R2, Canada Hours: 10AM–5PM

Battlefields Park

Located to the west of La Citadelle, once where Great Britain, led by General James Wolfe, fought France and won in 1759. Currently used as a park for walks and exhibitions.

The park owns a very vast green space. Previously, this was the site of many battles between the French and British armies. Today, this is a great weekend relaxation place for locals and tourists alike. There are often many interesting outdoor activities taking place here: camping, music stage, children’s entertainment program… Especially in autumn, this is also an ideal place for you to admire the beauty of the forest of maple leaves changing their leaves.

Address: 835 Wilfrid-Laurier Ave, Quebec City, Quebec G1R 2L3, Canada Hours: Open 24 hours

Holy Trinity Anglican Cathedral

Started construction in 1800, Holy Trinity is considered the first British cathedral built outside the empire, although it is an English cathedral, Holy Trinity carries the breath of France and traditional religious practices all follow the French.

Address: 31 Rue des Jardins, Québec, QC G1R 5L3, Canada

Dufferin Square

Just a few steps outside the Frontenac hotel door is a large wooden pedestrian walkway called Dufferin Square that is considered the most important property of the city. Opposite Frontenac Castle, on the other side of Dufferin Square is a 15-meter-high statue of Samuel de Champlain – who officially started construction of Quebec City. The stone used to build the base of this statue resembles the Arc de Triomphe of Paris.

Strolling around Dufferin Square, visitors can admire some important architectural works such as the town hall built in 1896, Notre-Dame Cathedral built over 350 years ago in Baroque style, Laval University was built in 1949 (the first Francophone university in North America).

If you are an adventurous person, go to Dufferin Terrace. Here you can rent a sled that goes downhill at a speed as high as a car. Besides, you should also enjoy a special cocktail of mixologist Nader Chaabane at Le Sam Bistro to feel the vibrant life here.

Address: Rue des Carrières, Québec, QC G1R 5J5, Canada

Governor’s Garden

Governor’s Garden is a tranquil space, in a fresh green color, adjacent to Frontenac castle. During the 1640s, this garden, which was privately owned by governor Charles Jacques Huault de Montmagny, was always closed, but today it is a public garden that can be visited by anyone.

Address: 7 Rue des Carrières, Québec, QC G1R 5J5, Canada

La Maison Jacquet

Jacquet House was built in 1675, the main color of the house is red and white and it is considered the oldest house in Québec city. Located at 34 Saint-Louis Street, Jacquet is now an old Canadian restaurant.

Augustinian Monastery

After opening in 1639, the monastery is one of Québec’s oldest institutions. At present, the monastery continues to maintain the same educational institution as in the early days of its founding, which is a convent school for nuns. Visiting the monastery’s museum, visitors will see firsthand the smooth and skillful embroidered products of gold and silver threads of the nuns here.

Address: 77 Rue des Remparts, Québec, QC G1R 0C3, Canada

Quartier Petit-Champlain

This is a small street below Dufferin Terrace, lined with souvenir shops, clothing, and many Quebec-flavored restaurants.

Parliament Hill

This is a majestic architecture that is also a famous tourist attraction in Quebec. Parliament Hill is inspired by the Louvre palace of Paris with the main facade of the Tourny fountain. Here you can visit, admire this unique work and take photos. The building is a magnificent structure consisting of four massive wings that is one of the clearest examples of North America’s Second Empire architectural style (an architectural style that prevailed in Europe and North America between 1865 and 1880).

This parliament building is also considered the heart of Québec, the most important historical monument representing the city. The impressive exterior of the parliament building is easy to see, the facade is decorated with 26 bronze statues honoring the people who helped shape Québec society and the Fountain of Tourny marks the entrance (here is a gift to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the city’s founding). Visiting the parliament building, you should observe the signs placed in the entrance directions, in 4 languages: English, French, Spanish and Italian.

Édifice Marie-Guyart Observatory

The National Observatory is located at an altitude of 132 m. Standing on this observatory on the 31st floor of the Marie – Guyart building, through the glass walls you can admire the breathtaking view of the whole city. Admire the labyrinth of streets and rivers that surround the majestic mountains.

There are also a few other interesting things to explore such as the Quebec-Levis ferry that runs on the St. Lawrence, farmers market near Old Port (View Port), Quebec Bridge (Pont de Québec).

Quebec city blog: What and where to eat?

Quebec’s cuisine is full of Canadian cuisine, to have a memorable trip and fill your stomach, remember to enjoy these dishes:

• Fresh seafood: Mussels, salmon, lobster, shrimp, crab, scallops,..
• Poutine: French fries covered in cheese curds and sauces.
• Maple syrup: A syrup commonly used to drizzle over pancakes or French toast.
• Nanaimo bar: Extremely sweet chocolate chip cookies layered with vanilla or buttermilk custard and chocolate toppings.
• Montreal bacon: Bacon is often piled up in a sandwich that comes with mustard.
• BC rolls: British Columbian specialties include sushi rolls with rice, seaweed, grilled salmon and cucumbers.

My first impression when coming to the center of Quebec City is that the food is full of Pizza, pasta, steak, hamburger… The price for the main dish is about $25CAD or more. If you can afford it, it’s fine, but for me, the luxury restaurants in the tourist center are not as interesting as the small restaurants that the locals often frequent come.

In addition, my Asian taste likes dishes like Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Indian… And such dishes in Quebec are a bit rare or remote. In general, it is different from Montreal by “heaven and earth” distance. Understandably, after a few days in Quebec, I found that the number of Asians was extremely small compared to other cities I’ve been to. Sometimes when I go to a restaurant, I’m the only one who’s Asian.

If you want to eat cheap food, right in the center there are MacDonald, Tim Hortons, Starbucks, Chez Ashton… for you to choose.

A special thing when it comes to Quebec is Poutine and Smoked meat. If we don’t mention these two delicacy, it’s a mistake. My favorite are the two restaurants: Phil Smoked Meat (Address: 461 Rue Saint-Joseph E, Québec, QC G1K 3B6, Canada/Hours: 11AM–9PM; Monday; Sunday: Closed). And Fabrique Du Smoked Meat (Address: 727 Raoul-Jobin St, Quebec City, Quebec G1N 1S1, Canada/Hours: 11AM–8PM; Monday; Sunday: Closed). Both bars have their own character, only Fabrique Du Smoked Meat is a bit remote, but its atmosphere is most local.

Chez Muffy (Formerly Le Panache): A seaside restaurant dating back to the 19th century. If you are a foodie, you absolutely must not miss this stop. Including more than 700 brands and cellars, more than 12,000 bottles are imported. Desserts here are also very good, but mainly sweets, suitable for diners with a sweet tooth.

If you want a true Canadian meal, then head to La Traite (Address: 5 Pl. de la Rencontre, Wendake, QC G0A 4V0, Canada), a restaurant that features a menu featuring local ingredients, notably sugar syrup.

Quebec city blog: Where to stay?

When you come to Quebec City, you can rent a small hotel in the heart of the city, travel will be much more convenient. Prices range from $50 and up. Otherwise, you can also use the Airbnb service to experience the feeling of staying at a local’s house. If you can stay at Airbnb, you can save money by going to the market to cook for yourself.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel du Vieux-Quebec ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Auberge Saint Antoine ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Manoir Victoria ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Best Western Premier Hotel Aristocrate ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top hotels in Quebec City on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Quebec city travel guide: Things you should note before traveling to Quebec

• You don’t need to know French when traveling in Quebec.
• Quebec people are usually very nice when you try to ask for directions in French. After I asked, they all answered in English :))
• Quebec City is a bit small, you just need spend about 2-3 days is enough.
• Eating far away is usually delicious and cheaper than right in the center.
• When I visited Quebec at the end of April, the weather was often drizzly, but the view was still beautiful. If I have another chance, I will come in autumn or winter. At that time, I will stay at the hotel made of ice (Hotel de Glace), experience dog sledding…

Happy traveling! Read more Canada travel guide here .

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The Ultimate First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Québec City

Last Modified: August 23, 2023 //  by  Anda

If this is your first time in Quebec City, this guide will help you navigate the city’s unusual culture and give you all the information you need for visiting it.

Québec City is about as European as it can get in North America. When wandering through its cobblestone streets surrounded by French-style bistros and French speaking people, you’d think you are in Paris. Yet, despite its European charm, the city has a very distinct North-American atmosphere.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Québec City

First impressions, 1. stroll through the old town québec, 2. admire the city view from château frontenac, 3. visit morrin center, 4. visit the citadelle de québec, 5. head to the top of the observatoire de la capitale, 6. take a food tour, 7. go a day trip to montmorency falls, 8. visit île d’orléans, 9. discover the aboriginal community of québec city.

• Where to Stay in Québec City as a First Time Visitor 

A Final Note

Founded by Samuel de Champlain in 1608, Old Québec is considered the cradle of French civilization in North America, which is one of the many interesting things about Canada . The city was an important point of interest not only for the French. The fur trade in region also attracted the British who attacked the French colony on numerous occasions.

Quebec City sits on a bluff at a narrow point on the St. Lawrence River. In fact, the city’s name itself derives from the Indian word kébec, meaning “where the river narrows.” 

Its strategic position made it hard to conquer, but eventually, in 1759, the British managed to take control of the colony and the northern part of the continent. And so began the linguistic and cultural rivalry between the francophones and anglophones – two groups that left their mark on Quebec City.

A First Time Visitor’s Guide to Québec City

When strolling the streets of Quebec you often have to remind yourself that you are in Canada and not in Europe. The road signs are in French, the streets have French names and everything posted is in French. If you are not prepared for this, you may have a culture shock when coming to Québec.

Luckily, the  Québecois are much nicer than their European counterparts. Once they realize that your French vocabulary requires the help of sign language, they will switch to English. Do not assume however that everybody in Québec is an English-speaker.

What to Do in Québec City

Old Town Québec is fairly small and can be easily explored in two-three days. The town is divided in two parts – the Lower Town, located between the St. Lawrence River and the high cliffs, and the Upper Town, which is the fortified old historic quarter.

Lower Town is the site of the original French settlement, defined by narrow streets and stone buildings. Many of Quebec City’s attractions are in this area. You can start your visit in the pretty Place Royale and see the spot where Samuel de Champlain erected his first farm. 

One of the most beautiful buildings in Place Royale is  Notre-Dame des Victoires (1688), a little church that stands testament to the French victories over the British. Next to Place Royale you can see “Fresque des Québécois,” a beautiful mural that recounts the history of the city. 

Also in Lower Town is the colorful Quartier Petit-Champlain.  This labyrinth of narrow streets lined with chic boutiques, artisan shops and bistros, is one of the most scenic areas in Old Quebec. In 2014, Rue du Petit-Champlain was voted Canada’s most charming street.

The Upper Town sits on the cliff of Cape Diamond, the highest point of the city. To reach it you can either climb one of the steep staircases that start in the lower town, or take the Funiculaire for a 2 minute trip to the top. The Funiculaire will drop you on the Terrasse Dufferin, a beautiful, wide promenade that overlooks the St. Lawrence River below.

The centerpiece of the historic quarter is the stunning Château Frontenac . With its grandiose size and suggestive name, you may think you are in front of a French chateau , but the iconic Frontenac is actually a hotel. 

Château Frontenac is said to be the most photographed hotel in the world and one of Quebec City’s attractions. It’s worth visiting this imposing structure even if you aren’t staying there. You can wander through the hotel lobby and marvel at its dark-wood opulence.  

To get a bird’s eye view of Québec City , take the elevator up to the 31st floor of Marie Guyart building, at the Observatories de la Capitale, one of Quebec City’s attractions . 

From up here you can see the St. Lawrence River, Île d’Orléans (famous for its great markets), the Plains of Abraham, and the star-shaped Citadel of Old Québec.

One of the most interesting buildings in the historic quarter is the  Morrin Center , a 200-year old building that first functioned as a prison. Later on, the building became home to the Morrin College – Quebec City’s first English-language institute of higher education.

A visit to the Morrin Center lets you see the jail cells and learn more about the life of the prisoners and the harsh conditions they endured. Morrin Center has a very beautiful library, really worth visiting.

Also located in the Upper Town is the old Citadelle de Québec, built by the British in the 19th century. The massive fortress is still an active military installation, so visiting it inside requires a guided tour. However, you can walk around it without a guide.

Part of the Citadel has been converted into a military museum. During the summer months people gather in the Citadel to watch the Changing of the Guards ceremony.

A great way to learn more about the history of Quebec is le Bus Rouge (the Red Bus). The narrated tour starts in front of Musée du Fort, right across from Chateau Frontenac, and goes to areas outside the old city wall.

The double decker bus stops at different points where you can get off and explore the city at your own pace, then hop on the bus again and continue your tour.

To visit Québec City’s highest viewpoint ,  take the elevator up to the 31st floor of the Marie Guyart building. This is where you’ll find the Observatoire de la Capitale an interesting observation deck from where you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the entire Quebec City.

From up here you can see the St. Lawrence River, Île d’Orléans, the  Plains of Abraham , and the fortifications surrounding Old Québec.

Quebec City is a food paradise! It would be a pity to visit the city and not taste its delicacies. I had the opportunity to go on a food tour with a local guide from the Quebec City tourist board.

Michelle took me on a off-the-beaten-path culinary tour and introduced me to the local favorites that otherwise I would not have unnoticed. The tour was 3 hours long and includes 6 stops with 12 different tastings of food & drink which is enough to equal a very satisfying lunch.

One food that you should try in Quebec City is poutine . This is a nationally beloved dish made with steak, French fries, cheese curds, ranch dressing and fried onion. Fattening, but delicious! The Québecois argue that poutine was actually invented here, in Quebec City.

Just a short drive away from the city you’ll see one of Canada’s most beautiful waterfalls: the Montmorency Falls.  Although not as famous and wide as Niagara Falls, Montmorency is still one of the most beautiful falls in North America.

The water plunges 272 feet (83 meters) into a bowl-shaped basin on the St. Lawerence River. There is a cable car that will take you to the top of the waterfall from where you can walk across the foaming white water on a suspended footbridge. 

During the freezing Canadian winter, the water stops flowing and the waterfall turns into a mountain of ice that is often climbed by local daredevils.

Not very far from the city center of Québec lies one of the most picturesque islands in the area: Île d’Orléans. The island is home to many historic homes and beautiful churches, as well as vineyards and berry plantations.

This is where you can taste some of Quebec’s best ice-wine and ice-cider, eat some delicious ice cream and home baked cookies, and enjoy a hearty meal at one of the many restaurants around.

Also within a short drive from Quebec City, you can have an Aboriginal experience at Huron-Wendat Nation at Wendake. There is a hotel, restaurant and an interesting museum on the site.

Here you can find out a lot about the history, traditions and the way of life of the First Nation. There is also the authentic reconstruction of a Huron village where you can see archeological artifacts and craft demonstrations.

Where to Stay in Québec City as a First Time Visitor  

In this guide I’m also going to give you a couple of lodging options for Québec City.

For Budget Minded Travelers

One of the less known hotels in Quebec City is the unique  Le Monastère des Augustines .  The Monastery turned hotel is located in the historic building of the Hotel-Dieu de Quebec   – the first hospital on the American continent built in 1639 by the Augustine nuns.

Even if you don’t lodge here overnight, the on-site museum of the monastery displays an extensive collection of medical instruments and artifacts that the nuns used when carrying for their patients.

READ NEXT : 7 Amazing Things to do in Banff National Park in Summer

For Those Interested in a High-end Experience

Another interesting place to visit in Old Quebec is the wonderful  Auberge Saint Antoine . The hotel was built on one of the city’s richest archaeological sites and displays a beautiful collection of artifacts  found during its excavation.

Even if you are not staying there, you can wander through the hotel lobby and admire the wealth of artifacts. 

The in-house bistro-restaurant is on of the city’s best. Housed in a former warehouse, the restaurant serves delicious French-inspired food using fresh, local ingredients. 

Trivia: Quebec is the birth place of Celine Dion. It’s also the scene where the first street performance of Cirque de Soleil happened. And last but not least, Quebec is place where author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry lived for a while.

Throughout its long and turbulent history, Quebec City managed to preserve its status as the largest French-speaking city in North America. But to understand the Francophone community’s ambition to be recognized as one of Canada’s founding peoples, one must appreciate their struggle for survival since the British acquisition of New France, in 1763.

If you enjoyed this Quebec City guide, please pin it to help other travelers:

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

December 14, 2017 at 10:27 pm

Hi Anda, I’ve always wanted to experience a white Christmas, I’m from Perth Western Australia. I have done some research & Quebec is on the list of destinations that guaranty snow at Christmas. Do you recommend this City for a white Christmas? Or have you got any other suggestions? Thanks

Anda Galffy

December 14, 2017 at 11:13 pm

Quebec City gets more snow than you may like, Rebecca. Winters are quite harsh there. However, the city is really charming and very easy to visit. I haven’t been there at Christmas time, but I’m sure it’s quite beautiful. Some European cities may also be an option for a “white Christmas” but you should check if snow is in the forecast before booking your tickets.

July 13, 2017 at 6:04 pm

What a lovely, helpful post. I haven’t gotten to Quebec City yet, although it has been on my list for years. You’re guide will be useful when I finally get there!

July 13, 2017 at 8:43 pm

Thank you, Cindy. I’m glad you find this helpful.

June 20, 2017 at 9:13 pm

Wow, you’re right, the city does look a lot like Europe! It’s very interesting to read how over many centuries, Quebec still retains its French heritage and indeed, they hold on to it very tightly! Your photos are, as always, spectacular 🙂

Agness of eTramping

June 20, 2017 at 3:40 am

This is a great post about Quebec- my bucket list destination! Very informative post, Anda!

Michele {Malaysian Meanders}

June 19, 2017 at 12:01 am

I somehow never realized that Quebec had that much British influence… well, I guess it is part of modern day Canada, so I should have known that. I would love to visit this city, especially that charming little street, and stay at the Chateau Frontenac.

June 19, 2017 at 9:22 am

Quebec City maintained its French heritage quite well, considering that the English eventually conquered it.

June 18, 2017 at 3:57 pm

What a charming place. It really looks very European. When I was in Niagara Falls last week, several people were telling me I should go to Quebec City and know I know why.

June 18, 2017 at 10:17 pm

Quebec City is not too far from you, Anisa. Hope you’ll get to visit it soon.

Ruth | Tanama Tales

June 16, 2017 at 7:35 pm

I would like to visit Quebec too. People who visit cannot stop raving about its beauty and European feeling. When you say you were able to squeeze a short visit, how many days are we talking about? I want to see if I can plan something short from Los Angeles. #TheWeeklyPostcard

June 17, 2017 at 2:33 pm

I spent 3 days in Quebec City, Ruth, but I would have liked to have more. While you can visit the Old Quebec in two days, probably need about 4 if you want to see Ile d’Orleans and Montmorency Falls and maybe visit some of the museums.

Lydia C. Lee

June 16, 2017 at 3:14 pm

That’s so beautiful – I hadn’t realised the buildings were so old (or old fashioned ie stone)

Rhonda Albom

June 14, 2017 at 10:52 pm

I visited Quebec City about 15 years ago with my two toddlers (now all grown up). I liked it as it had a more “European” feel than the rest of North America. The people in the city were wonderful.

June 15, 2017 at 12:42 am

I agree, Rhonda. The people in Quebec City were very, very nice.

Doreen Pendgracs

June 14, 2017 at 7:50 pm

I really love Quebec City. It’s the closet thing to Europe you’ll find this side of the Atlantic. Montreal is almost as good and better in its own way. Looking forward to my trip there next month.

June 15, 2017 at 12:43 am

Quebec City is not far from you, Doreen, is it?

June 14, 2017 at 12:06 pm

Another place on my wishlist! Your articles are the best incentive to motivate me go see places!

Sarah Ebner

June 14, 2017 at 8:35 am

We are really looking forward to visiting this beautiful-sounding city this summer. Thanks for all the tips!

June 14, 2017 at 1:38 pm

So you are planning to go to Quebec City this summer? It’s going to be beautiful. Summer and fall are the best times of the year to be there.

June 14, 2017 at 4:25 am

Great read! I’m dying to visit Quebec, but don’t know how I’ll ever squeeze Canada in when flying home to the US. Family would be mad if I went there instead of spending time with them! But I will go one day!! Don’t know if I said this prior to leaving on my honeymoon, but your new site looks fantastic!! 🙂

June 14, 2017 at 1:39 pm

It will probably have to be a special trip, Lolo. It will be difficult to combine Quebec City with California.

June 14, 2017 at 1:13 am

Love your pictures. I’d love to discorver Quebec. Actually make that Canada! But having seen your pictures of the old town, i am sure that it would be a place i’d love as well 🙂 thx for sharing!

June 14, 2017 at 1:24 am

Thanks, Julz. Hope you’ll get to visit Quebec City soon.

Debbra Dunning Brouillette

June 13, 2017 at 8:47 pm

Anda, I so enjoyed your article and your lovely photos! Stephen and I visited Quebec City three years ago prior to beginning a Holland America cruise that started there. We had a guided tour of the city and made it across the bridge to visit the Île d’Orléans and the next day did an excursion to Montmorency Falls. It was such a beautiful area that I would love to go again. Wouldn’t it be fun to stay in the Château Frontenac?

June 13, 2017 at 8:50 pm

I’m sure it would, Debbie, but their rooms start at $475/night.

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Quebec City Itinerary: 3 Days of History, Beauty and Beyond

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What do you do when you’re looking for a taste of Europe but don’t want to commit the money or time to crossing an ocean? The obvious answer is that you plan a trip to Quebec City! But as you plan you start to realize that the city and its surrounding region are so much more than “Europe light”. Even though our recent visit to Quebec City wasn’t our first time (it was actually my third), it taught me to love and appreciate this unique gem in a whole new way.

In this 3 day Quebec City itinerary, I hope to show you what makes it so magical. At times you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale! I hope it will help you prioritize what to see in Quebec City in 3 days. You’ll learn about Quebec City’s contentious history, soak up its charm and even explore the area’s natural beauty with a day trip from Quebec (or two).

If you have more time available, I’ve also provided an optional extension for a 4 day Quebec City itinerary; alternatively, you can use it as a substitute for one of the day trips if you aren’t interested in leaving the city. Along the way I’ll also highlight some of the best photo spots in Quebec City and great Quebec City restaurants you’ll want to try. At the end you’ll also find some helpful Quebec City travel tips.

Quebec City 3 day itinerary summary

Where to stay in quebec city, getting around quebec city, quebec city itinerary day 1: exploring old quebec, quebec city itinerary day 2: citadelle and activities in quebec area, quebec city itinerary day 3: day trip from quebec to charlevoix, optional quebec city itinerary day 4: exploring quebec history (car-free), quebec city travel tips, 3 day quebec city itinerary summary, where to go next.

If you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the big picture, here’s a quick summary of what to do in Quebec City in 3 days, plus an option extension for 4 days in Quebec City. Be sure to book your Quebec City accommodations and Quebec City tours in advance if you’re visiting in summer!

Where to stay

• Save: Hôtel Manoir Vieux-Québec
• Splurge: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
• Breakfast/brunch at Place Dufferin
• Optional: 10am Chateau Frontenac tour
• Stroll Rue du Trésor, snack or light lunch
• 2pm Quebec history walking tour
• Explore Lower Town
• Dinner at Bistro Sous Le Fort
• Breakfast at Au 1884
• 10:30am Citadelle de Québec tour
• Lunch near Citadelle
• Montmorency Falls
• Île d’Orleans
• Dinner at Cassis Monna & Filles or Le Billig
• Breakfast at Les Bonyeuses , pick up lunch for later
• ~ 12pm whale watching tour (time varies by season) – with optional bus transportation
• Baie-des-Rochers
• Jardins du Cap-à-l’Aigle
• Dinner in La Malbaie or Baie-Saint-Paul

Day 4 (optional extention or substitute for day 3):

• Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site
• Lunch in Lower Town
• Musée de la Civilisation
• Ferry to Lévis
• Dinner at L’Intimiste
• Views from Terrasse du Chevalier-de-Lévis

Where to stay in Quebec City is always a big question, and in part it depends on what kind of experience you want. For historic charm, you’ll want to look at places to stay in Old Quebec (properly called Vieux Quebec); on the other hand, if you prefer more contemporary amenities you’ll likely need to look at hotels in the more modern part of the city. If it’s your first time in Quebec City, I recommend staying in Old Quebec – especially if you won’t have a car.

It’s important to understand that Old Quebec City has two areas, Upper Town and Lower Town. The whole area is quite hilly, and near the waterfront (which is one of the areas most dense in Quebec City tourist attractions) Upper and Lower Towns are connected by either a steep staircase or a funicular.

For a first time visitor look for the best place to stay in Quebec City, I recommend Upper Town. All of the places to stay in Haute-Ville Quebec City are convenient for Quebec City activities and restaurants. That said, next time we visit we’ll stay in Basse-Ville Quebec City; after two stays in Upper Town, we’ll be happy to enjoy the relative quiet of Lower Town along with its fancy galleries and more sophisticated food offerings.

The most classic place to stay in Quebec City’s Upper Town is obviously Fairmont Le Château Frontenac . It beautifully dominates the Quebec City skyline and is a true treat inside. Every room in the hotel is unique! Guests can enjoy a pool and fitness center in addition to being charmed by the more traditional spaces and filling their bellies at the on-site restaurants. If you’re looking to splurge on a Quebec City hotel, this is the one to pick.

If Le Frontenac isn’t a fit for your budget or space needs, fear not! We had an excellent stay just steps away at Hôtel Manoir Vieux-Québec . This half-modern/half-traditional building is just across the park – we could see Le Frontenac from our window.

Through strategic use of Murphy beds (they look like big white closets in the photo above), they’re able to offer rooms accommodating up to 6 people which is what we chose. Our apartment even had a full kitchen, dining area and living room when the Murphy beds were put away. It was the perfect place to stay in Quebec City with kids! On-site amenities include a gym and hot tub, and in “normal times” breakfast is offered (the fancy cappuccino machine in the lobby at least gave me a little boost).

There’s an external set of stairs to access the main entrance (as is the case with most boutique Quebec City hotels) but once inside there’s an elevator to whisk you to your room.

What feels like a lifetime ago, we stayed at the nearby Hôtel Maison du Fort for our honeymoon. It’s a wonderful, cozy choice for a couples trip to Quebec City. It’s a sweet little bed & breakfast in Quebec City that’s tucked on a side street between the Frontenac and the Citadelle, so it’s extremely walkable. One thing to keep in mind is that the main floor only has “standard” rooms with a double bed and all other rooms (including family suites) require at least one internal flight of stairs. In fact, the family suite is a 4th floor walkup, so if you need that much space (and have a commensurate amount of luggage) I’d point you to Hôtel Manoir Vieux-Québec instead.

If none of these meets your needs, check out this helpful map to find high-quality, centrally location hotels in Quebec City:

I’ll offer a quick note on Quebec City transportation here. In general, exploring the Old City just requires a good pair of walking shoes. That said, keep in mind that it was built on a steep hill for defensive purposes. You will walk, you will walk a lot , and you will sometimes be walking on cobblestone hills. The steepest place in the city you’ll need to conquer is the 200 foot climb from Petit-Champlain to the Dufferin Terrace, and thankfully with appropriate Canadian cash the funicular can take you up.

Our recent visit was actually a multi-generational trip to Quebec City and included my youthful but 70-something mom. A few times she accused us of trying to gain early access to her estate by walking her too much, and one time she even needed to take a (brief) taxi ride within the Old City. That’s ok, and thankfully taxis are relatively inexpensive and easy to come by within the city.

We did have a car with us since we were on a lengthy road trip in Canada and New York , and the car was very helpful for exploring beautiful, unique places in the province of Quebec. If you’re interested in seeing what’s beyond the city walls, check rental car prices here for your dates.

Prefer to stay local and just explore the city? That’s ok! You can easily grab a taxi or Uber from the airport and then either stick to Quebec City or use some of the transportation-included tours I’ve recommended in the itinerary below.

You’ll kick off your 3 days in Quebec City with a few hours in its most famous building: Le Château Frontenac. It was built by the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1892 and modeled after the chateaus of France’s Loire Valley. It’s been expanded and renovated numerous times over the last century but still retains its iconic appearance and charm.

Fortunately, the lower two floors are open to the public. You truly don’t need to feel sheepish about just walking in to enjoy the shops, restaurants and elegant interior design! In fact, Le Frontenac is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Quebec City.

Fill your belly with the exquisite brunch at Place Dufferin. They serve a full hot buffet until 11am on weekdays and 11:30 on weekends. They have everything from custom omelets to a spread of local cheeses and pastries and much more. But can I share a little secret? This is probably the best value you’ll find at a Quebec City restaurant, especially if you’re looking for places to eat in Quebec City with kids. As of our 2022 visit, the price was just $38 CAD for adults and $19 CAD for kids 6-12 – with the exchange rate that put our cost at $30 per adult and $15 per kid for an unbelievable quantity, quality and variety of food.

If you’re looking for a relaxed start to your day, I’d recommend going for brunch around 10:30 on weekends. That’ll give you plenty of time to eat and explore, but you’ll also probably be full enough to get away with a light snack at mid-day rather than sitting for a huge meal. When you’re done gorging eating, head back up to the main level of Le Frontenac. Explore the hotel lobby, shops and rotating history exhibit – don’t feel sheepish! Be sure to check out the elevators near the check in desk.

Are you more of the “see and do it all type”? Instead start your breakfast around 9am so that you can make it outside at 10am for a guided tour of Le Chateau Frontenac with a costumed historical character. The tour lasts about an hour and includes both the inside and outside of the famed hotel, giving you a much deeper understanding of the history of the building as well as its significance to the world. We did a different tour with a same company and it was a highlight of our long weekend in Quebec City, so next time we visit we’ll definitely add this tour to our Quebec City itinerary!

Once you’ve finished your time at the Frontenac, head outside to stroll the nearby Rue du Trésor. For decades, this has been a charming place to buy locally-made arts and home decorations; I should know, because my childhood home was adorned with sconces my parents purchased here in the 1980s! Even if you don’t have the budget to buy, on a nice day this is a wonderful place to stroll around and soak in the city’s ambiance.

If you aren’t still full to the brim from your morning meal at Le Frontenac, this is the perfect time to grab a coffee and croissant to refill your belly. If you’re feeling even more peckish, there are tons of small bistros and restaurants in Old Quebec City that won’t require walking more than a few minutes.

At 2pm, be sure you’re back in the Place d’Armes – the picturesque square at the heart of Old Quebec. On the side opposite Le Frontenac, you’ll see a hotel with signs for tourist information – they’re legitimate signs, and the front of the hotel is the meeting place for your 2pm Quebec City history walking tour with Cicerone .

This tour was a real highlight and one of the best things to do in Quebec City. We learned so much about the city’s history and important context for understanding Quebec City over time. Our excellent guide, Sandrine, was also extremely entertaining and did a wonderful job of staying in her “role” as a young French girl who was pushed to emigrate to this distant outpost beaver trading outpost to put down roots.

The walking tour lasts two hours, so bring your comfortable shoes. It’ll take you all around both Upper Town and Lower Town as you learn several hundred years of history and encounter one beautiful view after another.

The tour leaves you in Lower Town around 4pm. When it wraps up, you may want to double back for more strolling through the charming Lower Town. Stop in at Bistro Sous le Fort to put your name down for a table later – more on this Lower Town Quebec City restaurant below.

There are plenty of unique galleries and interesting restaurants along Rue St-Pierre and Rue du Sault-Au-Matelot, or you can spend some additional time admiring the lovely square in front of the 250 year old Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church.

Be sure to spend part of your afternoon wandering Rue Petit Champlain, the adorable street at the heart of the historic Petit-Champlain neighborhood. You’ll find tons of Quebec-made items from housewares to sweet treats. Many of the buildings in the neighborhood date back nearly 400 years and they’re nearly all designed as they would have been in France, making this one of the most European places in North America – and definitely one of the most Instagrammable spots in Quebec City.

You’ll also want to make a quick stop by the Quebec City waterfront and its Royal Battery and ancient city walls that protected the city from British advances. It’s located at the bottom of Rue Sous-le-Fort.

We had an excellent dinner at Bistro Sous le Fort including everything from duck to fish to steak. Our own dietary preferences avoiding pork and shellfish made it tricky to find good restaurants in Quebec City, but this one really was excellent. There are even a handful of vegetarian options on the menu.

After your dining and wandering have wrapped up, take the Quebec City funicular back to Upper Town. You don’t have to buy your ticket in advance, but you do need to pay with Canadian dollars – $4 per adult, kids up to 46″ are free. They’ll also generally let you pay with US dollars, but without an exchange rate even if the USD is stronger than the CAD. There is an ATM nearby if you need it. Your other option is to walk up “breakneck stairs” nearby, which the gentlemen in our family did and reported that the stairs weren’t too bad.

Enjoy an evening stroll on the Dufferin Terrace, where the beautifully illuminated Chateau Frontenac dominates the view.

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Start your morning with a quick breakfast stop at Au 1884, the cafe on Dufferin Terrace just outside of Le Chateau Frontenac. They carry fresh croissants and offer a selection of muffins, in addition to serving up a cup of hot coffee to start the day off right. If you have a little time to spare, feel free to walk around – be sure to look down into the windows embedded in the Terrace to glimpse the remains of the Château Saint-Louis. It was the seat of government for the fledgling outpost of Quebec beginning in 1620!

Your morning activity is a tour of the imposing Citadelle, built beginning in 1820 to defend against a subsequent American attack that never came. That one sentence may sound reductive, but in reality the site (Cap Diamant) as well as the fort itself have a fascinating place in history from the earliest fortifications built in 1690 to hosting planning meetings for D-Day during World War II. Our guide did an excellent job engaging visitors of all ages and explaining Quebec’s complicated history through its military lens. In addition to the fascinating history you’ll learn, the Citadelle has some of the best views in Quebec City since it’s strategically perched far above everything else.

English tours are generally available every thirty minutes and we were able to book same-day, but it’s better to plan in advance! There are three “events” each day that you may want to keep in mind as you choose your time slot. First, the changing of the guard occurs at the top of every odd hour – 9, 11, 1, etc. Second, Batisse the regimental goat ( yes that is a thing ) makes an appearance daily between 10 and 11. Third, the cannon is fired daily at noon. We were on the 11:30 tour and arrived at the last minute since it was a last-minute plan, so we only caught the cannon blast. If you’re planning more diligently, I’d consider the 10:30 tour to catch Batisse and the cannon (you can explore the museum 11:30-11:55) or do the 11:30 but arrive early to witness the changing of the guard.

Be prepared that it’s a pretty steep walk to get up to the Citadelle entrance, and during the tour you’ll be walking around inside the large fort.

After your tour and optional museum visit are complete, head back down to St. Louis Gate (another great Instagram spot in Quebec City). While you’re there you can swing through the pretty Parliament Gardens and visit the Fontaine de Tourney. Find an appealing lunch spot along Rue Saint-Lous, like Restaurant La Buche (if you like pork) or Polina Pizza (where we had a nice meal on our first night in town).

This afternoon you’ll get your first taste of what lays beyond Quebec’s ancient city walls as we head north out of the urban area. The province of Quebec is full of beautiful, serene spaces and you don’t have to go far to find them! The flow of the afternoon will depend in part on whether or not you are driving in Quebec City. The first plan assumes you have a car, but after that I’ll provide some car-free alternatives.

Day trip from Quebec City with a car

First up is La Chute Montmorency, in English known as Montmorency Falls. This impressive waterfall is actually about 1/3 taller than Niagara Falls! You can easily enjoy an hour here walking along the boardwalk at the bottom and riding the cable car up to the top where you can walk right over the falls. Check it out:

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Be sure to buy your tickets online ahead of time – we had no issue purchasing a few hours in advance, but if you’re able to plan in advance that’s a good idea. It’s a 15-20 minute drive from Quebec City or about 1 hour by public bus.

The second stop on your Quebec area itinerary for the afternoon is Île d’Orléans, the huge island that splits the St. Lawrence. The bridge is right across from Parc de la Chute-Montmorency and in 15 minutes you’ll feel like you’re half a world away among the rolling hills and vineyards of France. In fact, this was one of the first settlements of New France and Jacques Cartier spotted tons of wild grapes growing when he arrived almost 500 years ago.

Today Île d’Orléans is the perfect place to go taste every indulgent local product: wine, cider, beer, maple candy, nougat, chocolate soft serve, pie and more. Be sure to arrive hungry and thirsty! Unless there’s something specific you’re longing for, you may just want to drive along road that goes up the island’s west coast (turn left at the end of the bridge) and see what you come across.

A few notably excellent stops on our visit included:

• Isle de Bacchus – Winery named after Cartier’s nickname for the island, and I highly recommend ordering the well-constructed wine and cheese pairing. The outdoor tasting area here is also extremely picturesque!
• Cidrerie Verger Bilodeau – Award-winning cidery that also sells delicious apple butter, pies, candies and more, and in nice weather you can visit the farm animals or pick your own apples (fall).
• La Nougaterie Québec – The nougat is amazing, and they’ll let you sample basically anything in the shop! It’s a “must”, especially if you’re visiting Quebec City with kids.
• Cassis Monna & Filles – Wine tasting and bottle shop downstairs, but upstairs you can get their signature cassis soft serve and an absolutely fantastic dinner!

Car-free day trip from Quebec City

There are a few ways to explore outside of Quebec City this afternoon without a car.

If you’d like to visit Montmorency Falls without a car and then plan to spend the rest of the afternoon in the city, this shuttle is a very convenient option. You can take the 1:30pm bus from Place d’Armes and return on the 3:30pm bus. That will allow you a little over an hour at the falls to explore as you please. You can then spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying the shops and galleries of Quebec.

Prefer wine tasting on Île d’Orleans? This 2pm tour will take you to three wineries including Isle de Bacchus. Your guide will share some island history and information about its wine industry, plus you’ll get a lovely view of Montmorency Falls as you ride back (and if the sun has gone down already, look for the falls to be lit up). You’ll return to Quebec City around 6pm.

If you’re looking for an afternoon Quebec City tour that will give you a little taste of everything, this tour includes stops at Montmorency Falls, Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, a copper art studio and a chocolate shop on Île d’Orleans. The tour departs at 1pm and returns you to Quebec City around 6pm.

If you drove yourself to Île d’Orleans, I recommend staying there to enjoy dinner at Cassis Monna & Filles . This was one of our favorite places to eat in the Quebec area and has such a fun, relaxed environment compared to many of the staid restaurants in town. The food was excellent, and the duck confit poutine gave me a new appreciation for this uniquely Quebecois dish. While we were able to walk right in during a torrential rain storm, in general I’d recommend calling a few days in advance for a reservation.

Back in the city, some great dinner options await those who are visiting Quebec car-free. For a special splurge, consider dinner at the classic Quebec Old City restaurant Aux Anciens Canadiens . Every visitor walks by it at least a few times, as this beautiful white 350 year old home is right in the heart of Upper Town. You will definitely need to call for a reservation for this special experience!

For something fun and laid back, walk beyond the ancient city walls along Rue Saint-Jean to Le Billig , a fantastic crêperie in the “new town” of Quebec. It’s a cozy spot with awesome food and friendly service plus reasonable prices to boot (hard to find in Quebec City). When you’re done you can stroll around with young and lively Quebecois.

Alternatively, you can go a little further to the trendy Saint-Roche neighborhood – it’s the home of all things trendy and foodie in Quebec City!

Today’s plan for your Quebec 3 day itinerary takes you even further from Quebec City to the magical region of Charlevoix (and all the way to its border). I promise it’s worth the trek, but if you’d prefer to stay closer you can scroll down to the Quebec City 4 day itinerary option below.

Now for my adventurers: today you’ll see wild whales, sneak through a secret garden and enjoy beautiful secluded scenery. It’s all in a day’s work in Quebec!

The centerpiece of your experience today is a whale watching cruise in Saguenay-St-Lawrence Marine Park. This part of the St. Lawrence River provides optimal conditions for whales (and smaller cousin species) to feed, so you can potentially see a dozen different species here!

Note that if you don’t have your own car, you can book the same whale watching tour with bus transportation ! The downside is that the bus doesn’t make any sightseeing stops along the way. It picks up at 9am and drops you back at Place d’Armes around 8pm. Look for the bus with the big whale on it.

You’ll depart from Baie-Sainte-Catherine, which is 2.5 hours from Quebec City. Hit the road early; I suggest 4 hours before your whale watching tour is scheduled to allow for a food stop and stress-free arrival. Scheduled departures vary throughout the year but I recommend shooting for one as close to mid-day as possible unless you are a true early bird (and if you are, my admiration goes out to you). Alternatively, during the peak of summer you can book a late afternoon whale watching tour that incorporates sunset in Saguenay Fjord and that may be a great option for some travelers!

Stop at Les Bonyeuses in Baie-Saint-Paul for a delicious hearty breakfast surrounded by locals. They even had live music on the terrace outside at 10am on Sunday morning when we stopped. To economize your time during the day, consider picking up sandwiches to go for lunch.

Plan to arrive in Baie-Sainte-Catherine 30 minutes before boarding; as I mentioned above, the schedule varies throughout the year. We boarded at 12:15 and disembarked at 3:15 – you can read all about our experience whale watching in Quebec . It we were doing it again in the summer, when there are many times available, I would have opted for a later whale watching tour.

The whale watching tour is simultaneously relaxing and exhilarating! While enjoying the beautiful scenery of the St. Lawrence River, you never know what wildlife you’ll see. During our voyage we spotted, minke, beluga and even humpback whales.

There are several lovely stops to make on the way back as you road trip through Charlevoix. You can also visit them on the way up if you opt for a sunset tour. Just 20 minutes south of Baie-Sainte-Catherine, pull off at Parc Municipal de Baie-des-Rochers. You can do a small hike if you park in one of the parking spots along the access road, or if you’re interested in scenery without the effort drive until the road dead ends at a larger parking lot along the waterfront. It’s the perfect place for a picnic snack or late lunch as you enjoy the small waterfall and lovely views. This might be the most magical part of your three days in Quebec City!

Another great place to visit on the drive from Quebec City to Baie-Sainte-Catherine is La Malbaie. Don’t miss the extremely unique Jardins du Cap-à-l’Aigle, tucked away in a tiny village. It offers babbling brooks, waterfalls, a lovely observation deck, fun sculptures and flowers everywhere. It’s an easy walk but has a few steep spots with loose gravel so I recommend closed-toed shoes (not sandals like I wore!).

Your evening plans will depend in part on how long you spend exploring in Charlevoix. Consider stopping at one of the lovely restaurants in the village La Malbaie or the larger town of Baie-Saint-Paul. If you want to do some post-dinner strolling, Baie-Saint-Paul has more going on and it’s also 40 minutes closer to Quebec City.

If you gunned it straight back from Baie-Sainte-Catherine to Quebec City, try out one of the other dinner options I recommended above for Day 2 of this Quebec City itinerary.

Wait, is this a 3 day Quebec City itinerary or a 4 day Quebec City itinerary?

This day’s activities are a great option if you’re planning to spend 4 days in Quebec City or you want to swap out all/part of one of the other days for an option that doesn’t need a car. By mixing and matching, you can have a few different options for Quebec City itineraries, or you can even fill up a Quebec City 5 day itinerary. We didn’t have an opportunity to do all of these activities yet but they’re on our radar for our next Quebec City trip!

As you strolled along the Dufferin Terrace a few days ago you probably looked down and noticed the historic castle ruins below. This morning you’ll have the opportunity to visit Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site , which includes extensive archeological finds and was the site of critical aspects of Quebec history (particularly relations between the First Nations and leadership of New France). In “normal times” you will be able to take a 45 minute tour with a Parks Canada guide.

A very interactive alternative if you’re visiting Quebec City with kids ages 6-12 is this unique tour of the city fortifications (aka the Quebec City walls). You can sign up at the same kiosk at Dufferin Terrace and it runs about 45 minutes. Unfortunately it was not offered in 2022 but hopefully it will return in the future!

Head down the “breakneck steps” or the funicular to grab lunch in Lower Town. You’ll find several restaurant options in the quaint Place Royale (which looks like it could be out of “Beauty and the Beast”), or you can find something that looks appealing along Rue Saint-Pierre or one of the nearby streets.

Spend the afternoon exploring Quebec’s unique Musée de la Civilisation . It showcases both world civilizations and the history of people in Quebec including a permanent exhibit that was curated in partnership with the 11 First Nations of the province.

Adults will also enjoy the diverse temporary exhibits – summer 2022 included one on poop and another on Pompeii, while there are several spaces specifically geared toward kids with interactive experiences.

Ronnie visited the museum on his own Quebec itinerary while the rest of us were en route from New York state and felt that he got a great taste of the offerings in about three hours. The museum is open until 5pm daily (closed on Mondays outside of summer).

When you leave the museum, exit to the right from the main doors and walk to the right for about 5 minutes (past the cannons of the Royal Battery) until you reach Gare Fluviale de Québec – the Quebec ferry terminal.

We haven’t done this, but I’ve already planned out one evening in Quebec City for our next visit!

Take the quick, inexpensive ferry to Lévis, just across the St. Lawrence River from Quebec City. You’ll enjoy some of the best views of Old Quebec from the boat and have the opportunity to see a quieter part of greater Quebec City. The ferry schedule varies by time of day – during peak commuting hours it’s every 20 minutes, while late at night it’s only once per hour. Roundtrip fare is around $8 CAD per adult and $5 per child 6-15 (free for younger ones).

Enjoy a sophisticated dinner at L’Intimiste . To get there you’ll have to walk up steep hill or take an inexpensive taxi, but by all accounts it’s worthwhile. Wrap up your culinary experience with a chocolate-dipped soft serve for dessert at Chocolat Favoris next door.

Stroll to nearby Terrasse du Chevalier-de-Lévis for wonderful views of Old Quebec. If you’re there at 10pm on a Thursday in summer, you can catch the fireworks with the Chateau Frontenac in the background!

Whether you’ve used this option day as part of your 3 day itinerary for Quebec City or chosen to extend your visit to a Quebec City 4 day itinerary, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your time in this magical city!

A working knowledge of French is helpful

Let’s address l’elephant dans le chambre . French is the primary language of the province of Québec, and les Québecois are fiercely proud of their distinctive language, culture and history. No one expects fluency and those working in tourism are generally accepting of English, but understand that English takes a back seat here. Your efforts to speak French, even if meager, will be appreciated.

Quebec City can get expensive

Thankfully the exchange rate worked in our favor during our visit to Quebec, but in general the city can get quite expensive. We found the prices of restaurant meals to be the most surprising, though we also went at a time when food inflation across North America was at an all-time high. Keep that in mind as you budget for your Quebec trip itinerary!

Bring comfortable shoes

You’ll do a ton of walking during a 3 day trip to Quebec City, so choose function of form when it comes to your footwear. You don’t want to sabotage your trip! I wore these sandals basically everywhere and they were extremely comfortable.

• Day 1: Exploring Old Quebec
• Day 2: Citadelle and activities near Quebec City
• Day 3: Day trip from Quebec to Charlevoix
• Day 4 (optional): Exploring Quebec history (car-free)

It’s easy to extend your trip to Quebec City with these great options nearby!

• Whale Watching in Quebec: The Perfect Day Trip
• 10 Unmissable Things to do in Montreal With Kids
• Where to stay in Montreal with kids
• How To Make The Most Of One Day In Toronto
• Niagara Falls: 4 Mistakes to Avoid & What to do Instead
• 8 Awesome Things to do in the Finger Lakes with Kids this Summer
• Watkins Glen State Park Hiking Tips
• An Incredible New York & Canada Road Trip

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The Ultimate Weekend Getaway in Quebec City!

Looking to take a weekend getaway to Quebec City? I got you covered! Summer in Quebec City is a special vibe and also SO romantic.

If there was one positive of COVID this past year and a half, it is that we have gotten the chance to explore more of our own backyard. We debated New York City, Montreal and then Mont Tremblant but are so happy we decided on Quebec!

Quebec City has been on our radar for a while now but we never had the chance to make it there! We decided to go for our babymoon before baby #2 arrives! I was in the second trimester so my energy was still up and I could easily walk a lot.

With domestic travel being SO much easier than international right now, we finally took the plunge and planned our Quebec trip . We are sure glad we did.

With a romantic charm flowing through the air, cobblestone streets, delicious restaurants at every corner and the picturesque St. Lawrence River situated on the edge of town, it has everything you would want in a destination. We fell in LOVE because it’s basically like experiencing Europe without having to cross an ocean! Having been to Paris twice now, I feel like I can honestly say that Quebec City may be my favourite French speaking city now!

With it being the second largest city in Quebec, we decided to visit for 3 days and I am excited to share all the gems that we visited during our few days there..

Table of Contents

Interested in other Canadian Travel Getaways?

• Buffalo, NY Travel Guide
• Niagara Bike Wine Tour That You Must Check Out
• How To Spend A Day in Niagara On The Lake
• Peach Picking In Niagara

HOW TO GET TO QUEBEC CITY FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY

 DRIVING  – From the GTA, you can easily drive to Quebec and make some stops along the way ( Montreal, Ottawa, Prince Edward County) but it definitely isn’t a short drive.

• From Toronto to Quebec City the drive is roughly 10 hours
• From Montreal to Quebec City the drive is 3 hours

If you are looking to do a short weekend getaway to Quebec City, it might be better to fly…

FLYING –  We choose to fly and we were happy we did. With direct flights leaving from Toronto Pearson and options on Porter Airlines as well- you are saving a lot of time as the flight is only 1.5 hours! The best part about flying too is that the airport is only 15-20 minutes from the downtown core!

If you are coming from the US, you can still drive or fly. There are, however, limited direct international flights to Quebec from the US so your alternatives would be to have a layover in Toronto, Ottawa or Montreal. The closest state is Maine so if any of my Maine friends are looking for a getaway I hope you find this post useful!

WHERE TO STAY FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY IN QUEBEC CITY

There are a ton of accommodation options in Quebec City ranging from bigger chain hotels to quaint B&B’s. I personally would recommend staying right in Old Quebec for how accessible it is to explore town! You can walk everywhere if you stay in this area and we did just that!

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

We choose to stay at this iconic, 5 star Fairmont which is considered one of the most photographed hotels in the WORLD! It is such a romantic place to stay in Quebec City.

After spending a day there, it is easy to see why! It feels like you are staying in a castle! It is enriched with historical character and an overall grand feel! With a massive renovation under it’s belt in 2014, it added modern sophistication to it’s rooms which can be felt all while preserving the unique features that make it so special. It literally spans over 12KM and it is a landmark in the city- being visible from so many view points! If you don’t stay here, it is certainly worth visiting regardless!

They have so many top notch restaurants which I will get to a bit later…

OTHER PLACES TO STAY AT FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY TO QUEBEC CITY:

-If you prefer small boutique hotels, check out Auberge St-Antoine. It is located on a beautiful cobblestone street that is just a hop, skip and a jump from the main streets of old Quebec.

– Monsieur Jean is another great option if you want a modern and personalized feel! Set up as suites, all of the rooms here come with little kitchenettes giving you the comfort of home with a glamourous hotel feel!

WHERE TO EAT OR DRINK IN QUEBEC CITY

If there is one thing that Quebec does not have a shortage of, it is good places to eat! As shown in my Instagram Reel HERE, you can see that we basically ate our way through the city munching on poutine, croissants, steak and frites and so many unique offerings!

B ELLO RISTORANTE

Admittedly, in every city or place we visit, we always have to have one night where we chow down on Italian food! With me being Italian, I generally crave a bowl of pasta or pizza once a week. I’m also a bit picky when it comes to my Italian food ( can you blame me when I had a Nonna who handmade everything!). I am happy to report that my picky Italian self absolutely loved EVERYTHING about our meal at Bello. We went for a salad, pizza and shared two pasta dishes. Their Duck Confit pasta was surprisingly our favourite and left us kind of fighting for it!! haha. The interior and ambience inside also checks all the boxes ( think old stone walls, wood burning oven paired with modern/black and white art pieces).

ALPHONSE BISTRO

This was the first restaurant we ate at and it truly set the tone for the entire trip. Alphonse’s offers a casual yet upscale vibe! You can come here for a more relaxed lunch ( which we did) but it also offers a chic setting for a romantic dinner too. We opted for steak and frites ( for me) and Aaron got their gourmet hotdog with frites. The service matched the delicious food!

SAM B ISTRO

Remember when I said that the Fairmont Hotel houses some of the best restaurants? Well Sam’s Bistro is one of them!!

Not only is the space jaw dropping, but the food is out of this world! It features dishes that are made with all local and seasonal ingredients and the menu has something for everyone! While they have some casual options like burgers or sandwiches, it also has a variety of upscale cuts of meat and fish varieties ( we went for the Filet and Lamb but let me tell you that the Cod was really calling me too). Since I am pregnant, I couldn’t have one of their hand crafted cocktails….or so I thought. Their talented mixologist created a spin on one of their raspberry infused drinks that was alcohol-free and it was hands down the best mocktail I have ever had in my life. My husband had their house spritz which was also beautifully presented and equally as delicious.

We actually had to take photos of every dish because they were all so pretty. If you don’t want to commit to an entire dinner there, the lavish bar area is worth a visit on it’s own!

LA COUR ARRI È RE DU FESTIBIERE

Located right by the port of Quebec, this is the place to cool off and let loose! It is something like I have never seen before and Aaron and I had the absolute best time! With over 40 beers on tap, it is easy to find something to sip on. They also have sangria, mojitos and margaritas by the pitcher so it’s easy to set up shop there. Did I mention that a portion of the seating is set up IN the on site pool? Yes…you read that right! You can dip your feet in the water while sitting on one of their colourful Muskoka chairs. This place is a must!

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Other places to check out during a weekend getaway to quebec city:.

Le Chic Shack : Craving a poutine? Grab one at this popular joint that is located right across from the Chateau Frontenac. Good, hearty poutine ( which is not only a Canadian classic but specifically a Quebec classic) and also offers up a great view! The difference between their poutines and other places is that they have more unique toppings like smashed potatoes or braised beef!  

Café Le Clocher Penché – Located in the trendy Saint Roch district, this is a place where you will find locals dining and hanging out. It has been included in numerous “Top Restaurant” lists in Quebec and it is easy to see why. The dishes are an art and you can grab a good meal here any time of the day. Fan favorite dish? A Faisselle!

Le Lapin Saute – Want to eat right in the heart of the Petit Champlain area? Le Lapin Saute is your place! It features unique rabbit dishes ( sorry vegetarians) and has all the charm in the world! It also features a cozy side patio.

WHAT TO DO IN QUEBEC CITY

The best thing about Quebec City is that you can easily fill up your days with loads of activities OR you can leisurely take in the city and still have a remarkable time. We had 3 days of non stop fun and then on our last day, we took it easy and soaked up the streets at our own pace.

Whatever you end up doing, one thing is forsure: you will quickly feel the undeniable charm that Quebec possesses. There are activities for every type of traveler too! While we went for a Baby Moon, we are actually really looking forward to coming back with the girls and doing some kid friendly activities ( maybe even in the Winter which is apparently AMAZING too!) I also couldn’t mind coming back for a Bachelorette getaway or a girls trip. Basically I am already yearning to go back….haha!

If there was one place that blew me away in Quebec, the Strom Spa might be at the top of the list. YOU GUYS THIS PLACE WAS OUT OF THIS WORLD!! I would fully travel to Quebec, just to visit here. Situated right on the St. Lawrence River, the Strom spa is an oasis retreat where you can not only book a treatment but you can also enjoy lunch on-site, lounge in their many thermal pools, and unwind for the entire day. It is an experience not worth missing. Best part? This spot is located RIGHT in the city…yet you feel like you are worlds away.

Since we only had 3 days in the city, we opted for a Thermal Circuit pass verse a treatment so we could enjoy all the different lounge areas and outdoor pools. This place is perfect for a girl’s bachelorette day, a romantic day for 2, a mother/daughter self-care session, or simply a day to enjoy by yourself! Also if you are on a babymoon in Quebec City like I was, this kind of pampering was necessary!

VISIT THE ROMANTIC STREETS OF OLD QUEBEC

Taking a weekend getaway to Quebec City wouldn’t be complete without visiting Old Quebec!

Did you know that Quebec City has been recognized as a UNESCO heritage site?!? Normally, UNESCO heritage sites are the prettiest places ever and with French architecture, cobblestone streets and streets lined with cute cafes and shops, it is easy to see why this area makes the list! We visited the area over 5 different times and I recommend seeing it at different times of the day as they all offer something unique. TIP: If you are looking to capture photos here without the crowds, come around 8AM. We had the streets to ourselves and it was so magical.

Start your tour of Old Quebec by taking in the view from on top of the Breakneck Steps, Quebec City’s oldest staircase, before wandering down. The stairs can be a bit of a work out but if you plan to eat croissants everyday like I did, it was a good way to work them off! haha.

Here are a list of the most picturesque streets in Old Quebec:

• Place Royale  is a historic plaza that’s home to the famous Notre Dame church!! We enjoyed coffee in this square every morning before the crowds came in.
• Rue du Petit-Champlain  is the most photographed street in all of Quebec
• Rue du Cul de sac is the street with the Umbrellas!! I loved this street the most. There are a few restaurants on this street and along with the umbrellas, you get an amazing view of the Chateau Frontenac
• Rue du Sault-au-Matelot is a street that makes you feel like you are in Soho New York! It is less narrow than the other streets and features some taller/wider buildings that I can very much picture myself living in! What a dream
• Rue Sainte-Anne is a street on the upper side of the steps. It is a great place to come at night with lots of live performers lining the streets! It also is across from the Holy Trinity church- another remarkable building!

MONTMORENCY FALLS

Discover this unique and impressive site with its 83-meters fall! No offence to Niagara Falls but this is way more beautiful ( and 100 feet higher!!). You feel like you are immersed in nature here with suspension bridges, easy hiking trails surrounding the site and cascading stairs that can even bring you up close and personal to the waterfall. It was a site to behold! If you are into Rock climbing, they also have that on site and if stairs or trails aren’t for you- they have a Cable car that runs from one side to the other. Definitely do not miss this! I would save about a 1/2 day for this spot and pair it with my next recommendation on the list ( see below/ Île d’Orleans)

ÎlE D’ ORLEANS

Picture being in a European city but in just 20 minutes you can transport yourself to a little island that feels like you are in wine country! Called Île d’Orleans, this little island smack in the center of the Saint Lawrence River, is the ultimate retreat if you want to escape the city. You can certainly spend an entire day there if you wanted to and I would recommend doing that if you have 4 days in the city.

There is a lot to explore there and a day would give you the best amount of time to do just that. This island houses tons of fresh, organic produce that is used in tons of dishes at top restaurants. You can visit the many wineries that are situated throughout ( very Prince Edward County vibes if you are familiar with the region) and also visit their farm-to-table restaurants! Our favourite place that we visited on the island ( and maybe even our favourite restaurant out of the entire trip was Cassis Monna & Filles

 This place is special, guys. It is a currant farm offering unique currant infused products such as liqueurs, dressings and spreads but it is so much more than just a place to get currant products! It is a vibeeee. With an on site restaurant, a sprawling lawn patio where you can enjoy sangria and some of the best ice cream we have tasted, we didn’t want to leave.

With just a weekend getaway to Quebec City you might think it’s a bit aggressive to fit this in but I highly recommend it!

VISIT LE GRANDE MARCHE

If you want to discover local artisans, produce and eat different delicacies all under a beautiful roof, I highly suggest checking out Le Grande Marche! It will have you drooling over all of the local flavors and really offers great insight to the city’s culinary scene. We actually decided to pick up a bunch of items and headed to a local ( and popular park) to have a picnic with them! If you want a great restaurant on site and feel that picnics aren’t for you – there is a microbrewery on the backside of the market with the cutest outdoor patio!

We decided on donuts from Beignes D’Antan ( OMG guys- just trust me when I say that you need these) , charcuterie items from Panier & Pignons and lots of fresh fruit from multiple vendors. We packed all of our goodies up ( that we didn’t manage to nibble on as we walked around) and had a picnic in what I believe to be the best viewpoint in Quebec….

BEST PICNIC SPOT IN QUEBEC CITY??

Terrasse pierre dugua de mons.

This somewhat hidden green space is located right off Saint Denis avenue! If you are exploring the Chateau Frontenac, it is easy to head right over there after! It offers jaw dropping views that literally look like a post card and gives you one of the best sight lines of the city. You get views of Old Quebec, the St. Lawrence River, Dufferin Terrace and of course the Chateau Frontenac.

DO AN AUDIO OR GUIDED TOUR

If you want to see different parts of the city, a tour is a great way to do just that. Get a glimpse of some of the famous landmarks, architecture and learn about the rich history that Quebec has! We choose to do an audio tour and downloaded an App right from our phone that helped guide us around. It was straight forward and truly enjoyable. We liked going at our own pace and were able to see some things that we likely would have missed. Our favourite was seeing the art exhibit placed throughout the city called Les Passages Insolites

They also offer private tours if you like someone to lead you along the way!

A DAY WITH RAIN? VISIT THE MUSEE NATIONAL DES BEAUX ARTS

We had almost perfect weather in the city during our 3 days there but got hit with terrible rain one morning! Since we are not the type of people to sit in the hotel, we got right to it and made our way to the Museum! The Musee National Des Beaux Arts was actually showcasing the Picasso Exhibit which made us even more excited!

While this is set to end on September 12th, they normally house some of the best exhibitions and you should definitely check out what they have going on before you go. The building itself is a piece of art ( I’m looking at you staircase!) and you can easily spend a half day there wandering around. Tickets for adults are $30.00

THINGS TO NOTE FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY TO QUEBEC CITY

HOW TO GET AROUND: My favourite way to get a feel of a city is to explore it on foot ( or bike) and Quebec City is beyond walkable!! You definitely do not need a car there. If walking isn’t your thing ( keep in mind there are some hills and steps), there are plenty of Taxis and Ubers readily available. You can also use their public transportation system!

A taxi from the island to our hotel ( The Fairmont) ran us about $35.00 which was the highest amount we paid otherwise most taxis are generally on pair with any major city for short routes and distances.

Another option for exploring is by bike which we did one of the afternoons!. A series of bike paths start from the Old Port area where you can travel along the river. We got our bikes from Cyclo Services which came with locks, baskets and even some water! Bonus! We rode along this beautiful scenic path that took us into some local areas ( Saint Roch!) to our final destination of the Grand Marche Market!

LANGUAGE: The prominent language spoken is French, but you will find English-speaking people in a lot of the tourist areas. It wouldn’t hurt to have a Google Translator App downloaded for Uber/taxi rides! We didn’t have a problem in most places but when trying to get around, sometimes the drivers weren’t clear on what we were asking

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED: A weekend getaway to Quebec City is just the right amount of time! We did 3 nights and we felt it was a perfect! We did feel though that we could have easily added 1 more night to see more of the island and just explore a tad more! 3 nights will still leave you with plenty of time though!! It was a perfect babymoon destination for 3 nights though.

C OST : Like most epic cities that attract tourists, certain things in Quebec City are not cheap. If you wanted to budget though, there are many affordable ways to enjoy the city ( Air Bnbs, cheaper eats, free activities like a park picnic). On average though, a hotel will run you about $200 + a night! We found restaurants to be on par with Toronto or Montreal!

Also if you were looking to add some time to your Quebec trip, I would recommend exploring Montreal!

** This post was done in partnership with Destination Québec cité but all opinions and views are my own **

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Your Ideal Québec City Itinerary: 16 of the Best Things to Do

06/28/2022 by Emily Becker Leave a Comment

Québec City is one of the most enchanting places in Canada. Some would even describe it as straight out of a fairytale, what with its dreamy architecture, riverside views, and surrounding mountains. Here you’ll find a thriving gastronomic scene, an impressive collection of art museums and galleries, relaxing Nordic spas, fantastic nature-filled getaways, and more!

Table of Contents

1. Take a walking tour through Old Québec

Upon arriving in Québec City, run, don’t walk to catch a tour of Old Québec, the historic center of the city. It is full of centuries-old buildings that will give you the feeling that you’ve been transported to 19th-century France. The neighborhood is a World Heritage Site featuring hundreds of years of history, so touring with a guide is the perfect way to soak in all the sights while learning about the city’s beginnings.

Sure, you can browse the area on your own, but starting off with a tour is a great way to get your bearings and make note of the places you want to spend more time at. This two-hour walking tour will take you to some of Old Québec’s most famous landmarks, including the pristine Notre Dame Basilica and even the Antique Dealers District at St. Paul Street.

2. Check out the Dufferin Terrace

You’ll likely find yourself at Dufferin Terrace while exploring Old Québec, and it’s worth spending some time here to check out the incredible views. The terrace was once the site of Fort Saint Louis, but nowadays it has one of the best views in town. From here you can see the St. Lawrence River and the Chateaux National Historic Site, among many other prominent landmarks.

3. Take a cable car ride in Parc de la Chute Montmorency…

Parc de la Chute Montmorency is a must-visit, as it’s the site of a 272-foot waterfall and is surrounded by nature. The park is only about 15 minutes from the city, but it remains secluded, and feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Québec.

If you’re visiting during winter, don’t pass up a ride on the cable cars , on which you’ll float over the falls and be able to take in the rolling white hills of snow all around. The views are spectacular and definitely worth the extra cost. Another option for panoramic views is climbing the 487-step staircase, but only if you don’t mind the freezing winter temps.

4. …or zipline over the falls in the warmer months

Visiting Québec City in the summer? This is easily the best time to get your adrenaline pumping with a daring zipline ride over Montmorency Falls. It’s 1,000 feet long, promising a fulfilling ride with unforgettable views. Book your zipline adventure here .

5. Eat your way through the Île d’Orléans

It’s no secret that Québec has a booming culinary scene. From poutine to maple-flavored delicacies and mouthwatering French favorites like crepes and steak frites, Québec has enough options to make any traveling foodie happy.

Île d’Orléans is a small island on the St. Lawrence River known for having maintained its rural quality throughout the years. This is an especially ideal place to dive into Québec’s food scene, as you’ll find handmade products, locally made wine, and shops selling artisan blackcurrant sweets. Consider this Island of Orléans Taste Trail tour , which will bring you to some of the best spots.

6. Explore the city via bike trail

Québec City has over 200 kilometers of bike trails, making it a cyclist’s dream destination. Even if you aren’t super into cycling, renting a bike is a fun way to explore the city. Plus, most of the trails are flat and easy to navigate.

Consider taking a bike tour with a guide if you want to learn about the city as you cycle. If you’re not into the tour idea, you can easily rent a bike for the whole day and hit the trails on your own.

7. Pamper yourself with a Nordic spa experience

Nordic spas are quite popular in Québec. If you haven’t been to one yet, this is the perfect opportunity to spend a day pampering yourself! Offering whirlpool hot tubs, steamy saunas, and thermal and Nordic baths, Strøm Nordic Spa is one of the best in the city. It overlooks the St. Lawrence River, and specializes in thermotherapy, which is a wellness ritual that uses water therapeutically. Book your spa experience here .

8. Explore the art scene at Musée National des Beaux-arts du Québec

Art museums hold a special place in my heart, as I believe they allow us to get such an interesting glimpse into the soul of a new city. The Musée National des Beaux-arts du Québec is a must-stop for anyone who feels the same way, as it offers an impressive collection of art that dates back to the 17th century and stretches through time until present day. Exhibits range from Inuit sculptures to a historic exploration into Québec’s sanatoriums, to an exhibit on ephemeral artwork, blending art, history, and science beautifully.

9. Check out the Cuivres d’Art Albert Gilles Museum

As you walk around town, you’ll notice that many historic buildings have copper accents. Especially in churches, copper art is a prominent form of decoration here, and one of Québec City’s defining features. The Cuivres d’Art Albert Gilles Museum features copper artwork from the Gilles family, who are masters at the craft. Here you can see works from various members of the family throughout the ages, as well as modern copper artwork by the five women who are carrying on the tradition.

This tour of the Cuivres d’Art Albert Gilles museum allows you to dive into the unique history of copper artwork. It also includes a chance to make your own copper piece in the museum’s workshop.

10. Have afternoon tea at Fairmont le Château Frontenac

The Fairmont le Château Frontenac is arguably the most notable building in Québec City’s skyline, in case you haven’t noticed. While it sure is beautiful to take in from the outside at any angle, you can also admire its beauty from the inside as well.

You can visit the hotel and wander through the lobby, but the best way to experience it if you aren’t a guest is to take part in afternoon tea at the Place Dufferin restaurant. Afternoon tea happens every Saturday at 2pm; you should make a reservation in advance .

11. Take a sightseeing cruise

The St. Lawrence River is one of the city’s most prominent features, so it’s no surprise that taking a sightseeing cruise is one of the best things to do in Québec City. From the river, you can get spectacular views of Montmorency Falls, the Côte-de-Beaupré, the Laurentian Mountains, and the city’s stunning skyline. This tour has an entertaining guide, plus a sunset option, which is the ideal time to do the cruise.

12. Get a bird’s-eye view from a helicopter

There’s no comparison to seeing Québec City from a helicopter. Because the city doesn’t have very many tall buildings, this is an epic way to see all your favorite sites from a completely new angle, get panoramic views, and take some jaw-dropping photos. This tour from Get Your Guide has 15-, 30-, and 45-minute options, with the ability to select Montmorency Falls and Île d’Orléans to fly over.

13. Go shopping in the Petit-Champlain district

For a peek into Québec City’s genuine charm, head to the Petit-Champlain district for a stroll. Here you’ll find the most adorable cafés and restaurants, along with back-to-back boutiques selling everything from antiques to handmade clothing to artisan jam. You’ll also find some awesome art galleries and even a few small museums.

The narrow cobblestone streets, along with the abundance of historical buildings, are what give the neighborhood its whimsy. See for yourself, and pick up a souvenir along the way.

14. See Québec City’s origins at Place Royale

Speaking of charming places, Place Royale is another one that is sure to enchant you. Featuring quintessential French architecture, this small square is the first in the entire city, dating back to 1608, when Québec was founded by Samuel de Champlain. Areas like this often feel like a time machine, in the best way. You can even see the contrast between the 400-plus-year-old bricks on the original buildings and the newer construction behind them.

Here you’ll also find the oldest church in North America, the Notre Dame des Victoires Church, which gets quite crowded inside. Visit right when it opens at 8am for less foot traffic.

15. Go on a whale-watching day trip

Québec City is just a few hours away from a popular whale-watching spot, Baie-Ste-Catherine. Here you can take a boat out to see whales, seals, and other marine life year round. You can easily make this a day trip from the city; this tour offers round-trip transportation to take the pressure off getting there.

16. Head out into nature at Jacques-Cartier National Park

Another excellent day trip from Québec City, Jacques-Cartier National Park is just a 30-minute drive away. Here you’ll find one of the most scenic glacial valleys in the whole province, the Vallée de la Jacques-Cartier; the Jacques Cartier River is another highlight of the park. Spend a day or two hiking the many trails, canoeing along the river, or mountain-biking in the summer. There are also ample wintertime activities, such as fatbike riding, skiing, and ski-shoeing ( which you can book here ).

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If you’ve chosen this destination for your next adventure to Canada, you’re in for a treat. With centuries of history showcased beautifully in its oldest neighborhoods and nature at its doorstep, Québec City has a special charm.

Which of these things to do in Québec City are you most excited about?

*Some links in this post are affiliate links for products and services we personally use and love. Any purchase you make through them supports us at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much!

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Québec City

W ith its sidewalk cafes, cobblestone lanes, and French language filling the streets, you’d think you were in Paris . Québec City holds a certain European charm that you seldom find outside of the continent, yet, there’s something distinctly North American about it that gives this city such a unique feel. Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Québec City is home to the only walled city north of Mexico and boasts 400 years of history, making it one of the oldest cities in North America.  

I’m not sure why it took me so long, but I finally made it to North America’s little slice of Europe and I’m so excited to share all of my recommendations with you! Before you continue reading, it’s important to understand that a weekend in Québec City is simply not enough time. There is so much to do, see, eat, and experience in Québec City that you’re going to wish you could stay longer, I promise. But if a weekend is all you have like I did, then read on to find out the details you’ll need to plan a trip that you’ll never forget!

[WHAT TO DO IN  QUÉBEC  CITY]

Wander the historic streets of old québec/vieux- québec.

As you may know, wandering by foot is by far my favorite way to get to know any new city, and that was no exception for my visit to Québec City. In fact, I spent close to 7 hours just meandering the numerous neighborhoods! If that doesn’t tell you how walkable this city is, I just don’t know what will.

While you wander, make sure to take in all the breathtaking architecture found throughout the Old City like the stone facade of the Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec. It is said to be the oldest Roman Catholic parish in the Americas north of the Spanish colonies in Florida and New Mexico.

Just around the corner from there is Auberge Du Tresor , a quaint inn and restaurant donning an iconic red roof. Not only is this a popular spot to grab an al fresco meal, but it’s also an excellent place for good old-fashioned people watching! Adjacent to the Auberge Du Tresor is Rue Du Tresor, a charming alleyway displaying all sorts of art for perusing and purchase. If you’re lucky, you may even see an artist in action! 

Although there are certain “hot spots” you should attempt to see while you wander, my best advice is to just give yourself an afternoon to explore without any specific plans. You’re bound to stumble upon more glorious architecture than you can keep track of!

Take a  Saint-Roch Food Tour  with Local  Québec  City Food Tours

It would be a crime to visit this foodie’s paradise without going on a food tour. Thanks to Québec  City Tourism and the Women In Travel Summit  I had the opportunity to go on the Saint Roch Québec Food Tour with Local Québec City Food Tours . Their mission is to provide off-the-beaten-path culinary experiences and introduce local favorites to travelers and visitors that would otherwise go unnoticed! The tour is 3 hours long and includes 6 stops with 12 different tastings of food & drink which is enough to equal a very satisfying lunch. A local guide (ours was Emilie and she was EXCELLENT) will take you through the hip culinary scene of the recently revitalized neighborhood of Saint Roch (pronounced like rock), and fill you in on lots of history and fun facts along the way. I’m not sure I would have ventured over to Saint-Roch if I hadn’t been on this food tour, and I’m so beyond happy that I did! Here’s a little preview of what you can expect when you go on the Saint Roch Quebec Food Tour .

Fromagerie Des Grondines :

On our first stop, Emily took us to a local cheese shop where we indulged in local cheese and meats as well as a delicious fermented fruit juice made from a Canadian berry.

Oh, and did I mention I had the most insane grilled cheese my life here? Yes, there’s that too.

Our second stop was to a vegetarian/vegan restaurant owned by a couple that taste tests their food on their kids – and new items only make it on the menu if the kids approve it!

Their claim to fame happened a few years back when the Rolling Stones were in town and were in search of a vegan restaurant to eat at for the duration of their stay. Apparently, they fell in love with the raw avocado-lime pie, and I can see why!

Third on the list was a stop at Noctem, a local brewery with a cat-decor theme! We sampled a delicious brew and tasted their yummy house ceviche. These guys pride themselves on creating artisanal beer and providing unique cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients and it shows!

Camellia Sinensis Maison De Thé :

Next up was a stop at a cute tea house offering tea from all over the world. We tried a tea sourced from a wild-growing plant only found in the woods of Canada. Looks like you don’t have to go all the way to Asia for good tea after all!

Chez Ashton :

If you’ve never had poutine, I suggest booking your bus/plane/train to Québec City RIGHT AWAY! Eating poutine in Canada is a right of passage, and although you can find good poutine all over Québec, the best place to get inexpensive yet mouthwatering poutine is undoubtedly Chez Ashton.

It’s made with fresh local cheese every single day, and the best part: they’re open 24 hours so it doesn’t matter when the poutine craving hits – they can provide!

Champagne Chocolatier:

Our last stop was at a handmade chocolate shop which was the perfect way to conclude this unique and very eclectic food tour. 

Sample the local flavors at Marché du Vieux-Port de Québec

Marché du Vieux-Port is an indoor market located near the train station as well as the port where all the cruise ships dock. 

Here is where you will find countless local vendors selling everything from artisan cheese and freshly baked pastries to wild-caught fish and maple syrup. Although it was a little slow with not many vendors during my visit (as it was still early in the season), I assume that by June this market is packed with vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables!

This is the perfect place to sample the local flavors of Québec and also to pick up some specialty gifts and maple syrup to bring back for your friends and family.

Admire the Château Frontenac from every angle

Did you know that the Château Frontenac is the most photographed hotel in the entire world? I’m not a bit surprised by that statistic after laying my eyes on this fairytale castle. 😍

The Château Frontenac was originally built by the Canadian railway companies back in the early 18th century, and by 1893 the hotel  first began accepting guests. It has since grown to become the symbol of Québec City. You will even find this iconic structure on postage stamps!

The castle is perched atop Cape Diamond overlooking the St. Lawrence River and is by far the most prominent feature of the Québec Skyline. 

Once you’ve admired the exterior of the Château Frontenac from every angle, make sure you head inside in order to see the gorgeous interior! Visitors are free to enter the lobby where historical artifacts dating back 400 years are on displayed in cases for all to see. To learn more, you can also book a guided tour .

Enjoy the views of the St. Lawrence River from Dufferin Terrace

Wrapping around the Château Frontenac is Dufferin Terrace, a boardwalk open to the public that offers uninterrupted views of the St. Lawrence River and the city of Lévis across the way.

Here visitors can relax on a bench or gather around the Samuel-De Champlain monument and enjoy the beautiful views and music from the occasional street buskers. From here you can also catch a ride on the funicular which links the upper town to the lower town.

On this ride, you’ll see sites such as the ancient Notre Dame des Victoires church, the historic Quartier Petit Champlain district, the port, and the Musée de la Civilisation.

View some local street art under the highway underpass (not as sketchy as it sounds, I swear)

You know I can’t go to a new place and NOT go out of my way to find street art! While on the Saint-Roch Food Tour our guide pointed out the underpass graffiti while driving by, and I knew I need to go back on foot to check it out in person.

Apparently, this is the only place for legal graffiti in Québec City, so here is where the artists come to create!

The underpass I speak of is located in between Rue Saint-Vallier Est and Rue Saint-Paul, but to make it easier you can check it out on the map below. It’s pretty much underneath the highway that divides Vieux-Québec from Saint Roch.

Although I don’t know much about the significance of these works or who they are by, I most certainly enjoyed taking a stroll around and checking it all out.

It may seem a little sketchy, as it’s quite literally located in the shadows underneath the highway, but I felt totally safe! As always, be aware of your surroundings whenever traveling solo.

Stroll the charming streets of Quartier Petit Champlain & Vieux-Port/Old Port

After you’ve wandered the streets of Old Québec, head down the massive staircase towards the lower town where you’ll find picture-perfect Quartier Petit Champlain. This waterfront neighborhood is home to some of the oldest streets in North America, which are now lined with boutiques, bistros and specialty shops that make for a perfect afternoon of shopping.

One place I found particularly interesting was Le Lapin Sauté, a restaurant dedicated almost entirely to rabbit-centric dishes.

After you make your way down the quaint cobblestone streets, you will come to a massive piece of street art covering the entire side of a building. This piece is called Fresque du Petit-Champlain which depicts the history of this once working-class neighborhood.

Vieux-Port/Old Port is just a little further down the hill and is another neighborhood that exudes European charm. As mentioned earlier, the Old Port is where the farmer’s market is located, so make sure to stop by when checking out this neighborhood!

Expect to find dozens of art galleries, antique shops, and specialty boutiques lining the streets of Vieux-Port. To me, this neighborhood had a more local feel to it, with residents riding their bikes, jogging, and walking their dogs in contrast with the tourist-filled streets of Old Québec. Not that I’m knocking Old Québec, it’s amazing, I just really enjoyed the local feel here.

Similar to the fresco found in Quartier Petit Champlain, there is another located in this neighborhood called Fresque des Québécois. This mural illustrates the rich history of the city dating back to its beginnings through the present. The artwork is so massive that it covers the entire side of a building and is 1,400 square feet!

[WHERE TO EAT IN  QUÉBEC  CITY]

For a unique atmosphere and a celebration of local ingredients: rioux & pettigrew.

From exposed brick on the walls to reclaimed barn wood lining the floor to Rodriguez’s “Chasing Sugarman” playing from an old school record player, this restaurant was simply oozing in rustic sophistication and all-around coolness. They even make their own house beer! In addition to their local beer selection, they have cultivated quite an inventive menu, using local ingredients from the Québec region. I went for the Formaggio Fresco, a vegetarian dish featuring arancini made with Québec cheese, beet puree, arugula, roasted pecans, diced beets, and beet chips in a honey vinaigrette. (OMY = OH MY YUM) I’d say this is the perfect spot if you’re looking for some midrange, local cuisine with an uber-hip ambiance.

For a killer breakfast located in an old maritime warehouse: Chez Muffy

I had the pleasure of eating at Chez Muffy two mornings in a row as part of my stay with Auberge Saint Antoine , and both meals were excellent.  On the first day, I went for the eggwhite omelet with arugula, tomatoes, fresh thickly sliced parmesan, multi-grain toast, and a vitamin-packed green juice.

The next day I opted to try out their buffet style breakfast which included all sorts of pastries, pancakes and french toast with Canadian maple syrup and so much more. The Chez Muffy team also prides themselves on sourcing ingredients from local farms whenever possible. (For more about my experience at Chez Muffy, be sure to scroll down to the “Where to Stay in Quebec City” section where I go a little more in detail.)

For the best crepes in town: Le Billig

Growing up in a French-Canadian family, I was accustomed to gobbling up my Memere’s homemade crepes every weekend (or whenever I would beg her to make them). So I was very excited to come across Le Billig, a neighborhood favorite specializing in sweet & savory crêpes. For under $5 I indulged in a delectable classic crepe with maple syrup that rivaled my Memere’s – so that’s saying something. Make sure to stop by this creperie while wandering the St-Jean Baptiste neighborhood!

For knock-your-socks-off handmade pasta: Bello Ristorante

I know it sounds a little strange to be getting Italian food in a place that is heavily influenced by French traditions, but my Italian heart can’t say no to fresh pasta. Many would say this is by far the best Italian cuisine in town – and based on my meal – I would say they were right. I went for the Mushroom Tagliatelle with truffle oil and thick slices of parmesan and it really was incredible.

For in-house roasted coffee and fresh baked goods: Cantook

Located in the hipster neighborhood of St-Jean-Baptiste, Cantook is a locally owned cafe known for roasting their beans on-site! The intoxicating aromas take over as soon as you walk into this cozy coffee shop and stay with you even after you leave!

Additional outdoor seating allows patrons to enjoy a house-roasted beverage when the weather allows, though I enjoyed sitting inside to listen to the faint humming of the roaster out back!

[WHERE TO ENJOY NIGHTLIFE IN  QUÉBEC  CITY]

For craft cocktails in a unique setting: bar artefact.

I don’t know about you, but when I hear the words “hotel lobby bar” I don’t particularly imagine an establishment that emanates sophistication. Well, I can honestly say that Bar Artefact shattered all preconceived notions about a hotel lobby bar.

Located in the lobby of museum-hotel Auberge Saint-Antoine, Bar Artefact offers the unique opportunity to sip on a hand-crafted cocktail while surrounded by history from the 17th century! If you’re a tad confused by what I mean, skip down to the “Where to Stay in Québec City” section, where I explain more about the Auberge Saint-Antoine and its fascinating history. Additionally, each Thursday and Saturday night Bar Artefact hosts live music like jazz, folk or soul from 7-10 pm and admission is free.

For a night out dancing where the locals go: Le Sacrilège

You know the saying when in Rome, do as the Romans do? Well, when in Québec City, head out for a night of fun at Le Sacrilège. Located in St-Jean-Baptiste, this neighborhood bar is a local institution and is loved by its super-hip residents.

By night this place was packed with people dancing to 90s hits while drinking a selection of local beers at an affordable price. By day (yes, I went back to take some photos!), it’s a relaxing local watering hole where patrons sip on craft beers while reading the paper out on the covered courtyard.

Some of my favorite details of this bar included the church pews used as seating, the hanging plants throughout the bar, and the airy greenhouse style construction.

For sidewalk seating and a low-key atmosphere: L’Atelier

Located on Grande Allée E, L’Atelier is a top choice for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a bite and a beverage in the open air when temperatures finally rise in Québec City. In the afternoon patrons enjoy plenty of outdoor seating in a relaxed sidewalk bistro atmosphere, and by night this sophisticated gastropub turns into a happenin’ spot for twenty and thirty-somethings looking for a fun night out. Grande Allée E is lined with bars and restaurants, so if you wanted to hop around to a few different places, this may be a good option for you!

[WHERE TO STAY IN QUÉBEC CITY]

Auberge saint-antoine.

I absolutely love staying at hotels with a historical background , but never did I think I would stay at a hotel with quite as much history as  Auberge Saint-Antoine . This boutique hotel has so much historical significance that it’s actually home to one of the oldest archaeological sites in North America. Artifacts found from the archaeological dig have been incorporated into the hotel’s design, turning the property into a museum-hotel. By staying at the Auberge Saint-Antoine you are quite literally staying in a piece of history. The mix of old-world charm and modern-day luxuries collide to create one of the most unique and stunning hotels I’ve ever stepped foot in. To give you the full picture of my stay with Auberge Saint-Antoine , I’m going to break it down into sections for easier reading.

The History of the Auberge Saint-Antoine:

The property was once a wharf, then a canon battery, and later a merchant warehouse when Québec City was one of North America’s biggest and busiest ports. The hotel is made up of three different buildings, which were added between the 17th and 18th century.

When walking along Rue Saint-Antoine, you can actually see the markers on the ground to show where the shoreline used to be from century to century! During the construction of Auberge Saint-Antoine, when the Price family was going to turn the three buildings into a boutique hotel, they discovered over 1,000 artifacts as well as the original wall dating back to the 1700s.

The Decor & Details:

Now, these very same centuries-old artifacts are on display throughout the property for all to see. Auberge Saint-Antoine has 5 floors, and each floor is dedicated to the time period from which the artifacts were found.

Next to the elevator on each floor is a display case of these preserved items with details about the time period from which they belong. Another detail I appreciated was how they incorporated pieces found from the dig into artwork used to display room numbers.

The lobby walls are adorned with relics from the past such as dishes, vases, barber scissors, and even smoking pipes! Just down the hall from the lobby, you will come to Foyer Maillou where you’ll find a larger collection of artifacts on display ranging from the 17th to the 18th centuries.

To learn more about the history of Auberge Saint-Antoine, guests of the hotel can request an archaeological tour which will take approximately 20 minutes.

The Location:

Auberge Saint-Antoine is located at the edge of the St. Lawrence River just steps away from the marina, markets, and a plethora of art galleries and boutiques of Vieux-Port/Old Port. I love that the property is located near Old Québec, but is not located directly in it. I always like to stay a little outside of town to give myself the opportunity to get familiar with different, less touristic neighborhoods.

I was welcomed to my suite in the Hunt House (parts of which date back to the early 18th century) with a handwritten note and a box of cookies which couldn’t have been a warmer greeting. Upon entering the suite, I was first captivated by the fireplace in the cozy and spacious living room.

My attention then focused on the french doors opening up to my own private balcony with views of the picturesque St. Lawrence River and the marina where the cruise ships dock.

The suite was extremely spacious and featured original wood flooring, exposed wood beams, and decor from the 18th century which really gave the space a rustic yet elegant feel. The bedroom was down the hall, and had an outrageously comfortable four post bed with luxuriously soft linens, making it nearly impossible to get out of bed in the morning!

The bathroom was equipped with heated flooring and a deep-soaking tub which I absolutely made use of during my stay! Each night after a long day of exploring I would slip into my robe and slippers and draw a warm bath to relax in. Afterward, I’d crawl up on the couch next to the fire, play music from the selection of jazz left next to the Bose speaker, and make myself a cup of tea using the in-room tea kettle. Some other added amenities I enjoyed included turndown service, complimentary water, and tea daily as well as a personal Nespresso machine. In total, there are 84 unique rooms and 11 suites at Auberge Saint-Antoine and no two rooms are alike.

Chez Muffy:

If you checked out the “Where to Eat in Québec City” section, you would have noticed that I’ve already mentioned Chez Muffy. As part of the Auberge Saint-Antoine, Chez Muffy is a farm-to-table restaurant located in a restored maritime warehouse.

Built in 1822, this historic building dons natural stone walls, distressed wooden floors and exposed wooden beams that certainly feel of the time period. In fact, it’s the only maritime warehouse of its era that still remains in Québec City.

They’ve really done a stellar job at mixing the old with the new by incorporating modern touches like high-back chairs covered in bold country-chic fabrics and adding a crystal rock gas fireplace in the center of the restaurant to add a touch of warmth and elegance.

Bar Artefact:

Already noted in the “Where to Enjoy Nightlife in Quebec City” section of this blog post, Bar Artefact is quite possibly the most interesting place I’ve ever sipped a craft cocktail!

Sit back on a contemporary white shag chair with a drink in hand and admire artifacts from hundreds of years ago displayed in glass cases along the main wall.

There’s even a French canon and canon ball on display! Luxe touches like red velvet curtains and plush furniture in combination with the centuries-old relics create a unique modern-glam meets old-world atmosphere.

Behind the red velvet curtains are hidden reading nooks, complete with additional seating, cozy throw blankets, and shelves full of books.

Bottom Line:

I had an incredible stay at Auberge-Saint Antoine, and I truly believe it enhanced my overall experience in Québec City. From the exceptionally helpful staff and the luxurious accommodations to the historic beauty of this boutique hotel, I had a 5-star experience.  A special shoutout to William for making me a beautiful mocktail for my photos, Jean-Baptiste for the restaurant reservation, and Dagmar & Guy for organizing such a beautiful stay during my visit!

[OTHER ACTIVITIES TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR VISIT TO QUÉBEC CITY]

I didn’t have enough time to do everything that I wanted, but the next time I visit Québec City, I will most definitely be checking out the below activities! These were all recommended to me by friends and locals, so I trust that they would be solid additions to any Québec City itinerary.

A visit to l’Ile d’Orléans

l’Ile d’Orléans is an island located on the St. Lawrence River just off of Québec City’s mainland where the majority of farming and agriculture for the province takes place. Here you can  experience the countryside while touring local farms, markets, and even a winery! 

Experience the First Nations Tour: I am  Wendake !  Wendake  Endi’!

Learn about the fascinating history and ancestral culture of The Huron Wendat native people by visiting the Huron Wendat Community of Wendake. It’s an experience I am kicking myself for missing! For more information and to set up a tour, visit their website .

Take a ferry ride over to Lévis

To see the city from a whole new perspective, cross the St. Lawrence by ferry from Old Quebec over to the neighboring city of Lévis. Each way only takes 12 minutes and will cost you just under $8 CAD roundtrip.  For more information including schedules, fares and more, check out this link .

I know this seems like a lot of information for a weekend visit (and it is), but the best plan of action is to just wander the beautiful streets and simply enjoy this beautiful city! As I said, a weekend really isn’t enough time to fully experience Québec City, but it will still allow you to get a feel for the flavors, sites, and sounds of North America’s oldest city! Enjoy!

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Disclaimer:  I received a complimentary stay with Auberge Saint-Antoine in exchange for my opinions, but all opinions are my own. I only recommend places that I love!

Wanderluluu xx

I’m Lauren, an award-nominated blogger from Massachusetts on a mission to debunk the myth that the world is a scary and dangerous place for female travelers…starting with Colombia! 29 countries, across 5 continents later, I now call Bogotá, Colombia home after visiting on and off for the past 4.5 years, and am here to show you all the beautiful travel experiences you can have not only here in Colombia, but in destinations across the world!

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hi, may i know if you are travelling solo, then how did you take those photos of u in it? did u use a tripod stand?

Lauren Mae Pelkey

Hi Lin! Yes, that is exactly correct! For all my solo travel photography tips check out this post –> http://www.wanderluluu.com/solo-travel-photography/

B.C. Kowalski

Cool post! I’ve been especially enamored of Quebec after learning my great-grandmother grew up in Quebec City before moving to Wisconsin. They have some amazing cross-country skiing facilities in Quebec area and I am toying with a winter trip later since I have some time off around Christmas.

Did you speak French while you were there? In Japan and Mexico I spoke the language at least well enough to get by, and in Thailand I was with my friend Nino who is Thai. I like to usually try to go places where I speak the language but I know little French, not even enough to order food. (I suppose I would brush up at least a little.) What was your experience there with language?

nicolas desjardins

Wow the picture looks so beautiful! Your travel must have been a real pleasure. I might try to go to Quebec city soon enough. This guide is really well explained, I hope to see more like this on your website. Have a beautiful day!

Hi & thank you so much for the kind words! If you go to Quebec City, please do let me know how it goes! I have lots of guides on my site so would love if you could take some time to look around 🙂 Safe travels!

Quebec looks wonderful – I would love to visit one day. I love it anywhere they speak French and have a French-influenced culture! The nearest spot to us here in New Zealand is New Caledonia – have you been? Thank you for sharing your great pics!

Hi Naomi – Quebec truly is marvelous! Agreed – I love the French language and French-influenced culture (and food!) too! I have not been to New Caledonia but looks like I’m adding it to my list!

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I’m Lauren, an award-nominated blogger and children's author from Massachusetts on a mission to debunk the myth that the world is a scary and dangerous place for female travelers…especially Colombia! 30+ countries, across 5 continents later, I now call Bogotá, Colombia home after visiting on and off for the past several years, and am here to show you all the beautiful travel experiences you can have not only here in Colombia, but in destinations across the world!

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How to Visit Québec City on a Budget

I’ve visited Canada many times but have always missed is Québec City. I’ve only heard great things from everyone who has ever been there. Luckily, my friend Pamela is an expert on the city. She runs Urban Quebec Guide , a blog that showcases the best Quebec has to offer.

In this guest post, she shares tips and advice to help you make the most out of your time in Quebec City without breaking the bank!

I fell in love with Québec City the moment I stepped off the overnight train from Halifax . The cobblestone streets, outdoor patios, European architecture, and delicious poutine (and French men!) tugged at my heartstrings.

A French colony founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, Québec City was then known as New France. Over the course of its over four hundred years, the city went from being French to British and then French again, creating a delightful mix of architectural styles.

While most are initially drawn to Québec City by its history and European charm, the people, food, and culture are why they inevitably fall in love with the city. The locals are a community very passionate about all things Québec and want visitors to experience that same passion, regardless of one’s travel budget . I can’t preach the gospel of this city enough. It’s like a big little village and one of my favorite places in the entire country.

Though Québec City can be expensive, there are plenty of ways to visit this city on a budget and still enjoy everything this place has to offer!  

Things to See and Do

Explore Vieux-Québec (Old Québec) While doing it on your own can be fun, make time to take a walking tour. If you’re on a tight budget, there is a free walking tour with Samuel Dubois , a funny local guide who lives off the tips he receives from travelers. His tour takes you through the Old City and is filled with humorous facts and stories. Samuel is also a craft beer connoisseur, so if you’re looking for recommendations, he is your man!

If you have a little money to spend and want a historical walking tour with a costumed guide, Cicerone’s walking tours are highly recommended!

Visit La Citadelle & city fortifications Québec City is one of the oldest fortified cities in North America (it’s only one of two cities in existence that are still fortified). Spend some time at the Citadelle, which is still operational and home to the Royal 22e Régiment. Built between 1820-1850, the Citadelle fortifications were built to help protect the city from American attack. Admission is $18 CAD and includes entrance to the Citadelle, a museum tour, the changing of the guard (in summer), and the Beating of the Retreat.

1 Côte de la Citadelle, +1 418-694-2815, lacitadelle.qc.ca/en. Open daily from 10am-5:30pm (9am from May-September).

Dufferin Terrace The terrace is the oldest boardwalk in the city and runs along the front of Fairmont Château Frontenac. In summer, you can relax on the boardwalk, watch street performers, and buy chocolate-dipped ice cream cones from Au 1884. In winter, toboggan down the slope of the Dufferin Slide, one of the first tourist attractions in the city.

Climb to the top of Terrasse Pierre-Dugua-de-Mons Capture a postcard-perfect shot of Château Frontenac and the Saint Lawrence River. There is a wooden staircase after the gazebo on Dufferin Terrace.

Ride the funiculaire From Dufferin Terrace, take the funicular (inclined railway) down the cap (promontory) to Petit-Champlain (one of the oldest shopping streets) and Place Royale (site of the first colony). Rides are $4 CAD one-way.

Tip: If you hate hills as I do, walk down the steep hill (Côte de la Montague) and take the funicular back up to the top of the cap.

Musée de la Civilization Québec has many museums, but this is probably the best one for learning about the history of Québec. Regular admission is $24 CAD but if you are 18-30 years of age, it is only $19 (not including special exhibits).

85 Rue Dalhousie, +1 418-643-2158, mcq.org/en. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm.

Cathedral of the Holy Trinity This cathedral was the first Anglican church built outside Britain. Consecrated in 1804, it was built in the Neoclassical style and houses a silver communion set given by King George III (who reigned from 1760-1820). Be sure to take the guided tour for $6 CAD; it’s offered by one of the best English historians in Québec City. Self-guided tours are also available in July and August for $3 CAD per person.

31 Rue des Jardins, +1 418-692-2193, cathedral.ca. Open daily from 9am-5pm from May-September. See website for update hours and worship times.

The Morrin Centre & Maison de la Littérature Located across the street from each other, both of these buildings turned libraries are some of the funkiest attractions in town. The Morrin Centre started as an army barracks, then changed to a jail (where many public hangings occurred), then a college, and now a beautiful Victorian (English) library. La Maison de la Littérature is a French library housed in a converted church (which was once English). Both libraries are FREE.

44 Chaussée des Écossais, +1 418-694-9147, morrin.org/en. Openw weekdays from 9am-5pm.

Take a bus to Montmorency Falls Skip the tours and take public transportation to Chute Montmorency (Montmorency Falls). While they are not as wide as Niagara Falls, they are 30 meters (98 feet) taller and are stunning, especially in fall when the surrounding leaves change color. From Place d’Youville, take bus #800 to the falls (it takes around 50 minutes). If you have a car, it’s just a 15-minute drive. Tickets are $3.75 CAD cash or you can buy using the RTC Paiement app for $3.25 CAD.

Walk the stairs of Sous-le-Cap Walk along rue Saint-Paul in Vieux-Port. When you get to the Savonnerie you’ll see a very small path between the buildings; follow it to rue Sous-le-Cap, one of the oldest streets in the city. The street is tiny, with layers of wooden stairs that stretch across the alley. This was once a busy shopping street back when the houses had a front-row view of the Saint-Lawrence River, which would lap against the buildings at times.

Amusement Park at Méga Parc This is Québec’s version of Mall of America. Méga Parc has 19 attractions/rides, including a skating rink, an arcade with 60 or so games, mini-golf, and a rock-climbing wall. Unlimited access is $25 CAD per person. To get here, take buses #801 and #803.

The Plains of Abraham Head into the neighborhood of Montcalm and walk around the Plains of Abraham, the site of the famous battle of 1759 during the Seven Years’ War between England and France. The entire battle on the plains lasted about 15 minutes and saw both English and French generals killed. The British victory resulted in them gaining control of the city — and eventually the country.

Today, the Plains of Abraham is a large park with running and walking tracks, Martello Towers (small defensive forts built during the 19th century), busts of historic figures, gardens, and pretty views of the Saint Lawrence River.

Relax at Place des Canotiers A new public space beside the Saint Lawrence River, this urban square has places to sit and relax, as well as fountains and mist you can walk through. A go-to spot on hot summer days, this is also where the cruise ships and tall ships dock. In August, come here on Wednesday nights to watch the fireworks, listen to a live DJ, and devour food truck eats.

Leave the tourists behind In the middle of summer, when the Old City is bursting at the seams with tourists, you’ll find me in along rue Saint-Joseph Est in Saint-Roch, rue Saint-Jean in Saint-Jean-Baptiste, and 3e (Troisième) Avenue in Limoilou, where I can enjoy the quiet, local side of life. Prices are generally a little cheaper in these areas, and there are plenty of fabulous restaurants, microbreweries, cafés, and boutiques to keep me happy.  

Where to Eat

• Chez Ashton (Vieux-Québec, Saint-Roch, or Montcalm): Delicious gluttony made of fries, squeaky cheese curds and piping hot gravy. Almost every restaurant sells poutine, but the best traditional poutine in the city starts with Chez Ashton. A Québec institution, it serves up poutine in large, round foil containers. In winter the price of poutine fluctuates depending on the weather. For example, if it is -25°C (-13°F) outside, then your poutine at Chez Ashton is 25% off!
• Buffet de l’Antiquaire Located in Old Port, Buffet de l’Antiquaire is a Quebec City institution. This local diner has been serving Québécois comfort foods for over 40 years. Try the heart-stopping breakfast poutine, tourtière, or pâté chinois (shepherd’s pie). They have American-style breakfasts, too.
• Le Bureau de Poste: This little gem has a yummy menu, cheap cocktails, and budget-friendly pints! Go forth and have fun, and be sure to enjoy the patio in the summer. This is one of the only places serving hot food until 3am.
• La Fabrique du Smoked Meat Tucked away in the neighborhood of Saint-Sauveur, finding this restaurant may feel like a scavenger hunt. It’s worth the journey though. Smoked meat sandwiches start at $9 CAD, and poutines start at $9 CAD..
• Marché d’Emma: Located across the street from the hostel, this small épicerie has a nice selection of Québec craft beers, wine, frozen pizzas, gourmet foods, and non-perishables. They also have fresh baguettes most days.
• L’Inter Marché: Located on rue Saint-Jean in Saint-Jean-Baptiste, this small grocery store has a small selection of produce, meats, dairy, non-perishables, frozen foods, and bread. Prices are often better than at the épiceries.

The food scene in Québec City is ever-growing, and we now have a few options for vegans and vegetarians as well. As in other major cities, almost every neighborhood now also has shawarma or kebab. There are plenty of sushi places, too.

Where to Party

Bar St-Angèle: A night of cheap beer, live music, and quirky locals. It is a must before venturing into the pubs and bars in the city.

Le Drague Cabaret Club: A gay bar/nightclub with drag shows and karaoke.

Pub Nelligan’s: A lively Irish pub popular with locals. Rustic ambiance, live Irish shows from time to time, and a mix of Québec and Irish beers (and liquor).

Le Projet: An eclectic gastropub, Le Projet has roughly 24 microbrews on tap. Buy food on-site or pick up a poke bowl from Bols et Poké on your way and eat it there.

La Barberie: By far the most popular microbrewery in the city. Beer is brewed on-site, there is plenty of seating, and while they don’t have a license to serve food, you can have a pizza, Chinese food, or whatever else you’re craving delivered to the bar.  

Where to Sleep

Beds cost around $46 CAD per night.

Couchsurfing is also quite popular in Québec City, which has a very large Couchsurfing community . Always look for hosts with good ratings and reviews, and bring a small thank you gift for your host (it could be a bottle of wine or craft beer) as you are being invited into their home, for free!

If you want to experience the local vibe of the city, I suggest mixing things up a little: stay a few nights at a hostel to explore the historic areas, then Couchsurf or rent a room on Airbnb in another neighborhood to get a true feel for what everyday life is like in Québec City.  

9 Ways to Save Money in Québec City

• Take a FREE walking tour of the Old City.
• Eat poutine (under $10 CAD) at Chez Ashton, one of the cheapest places in the city.
• Buy food at a neighborhood grocery store.
• Eat croissants for breakfast — they’re cheap and delicious! Paillard on rue Saint-Jean (to the right at the bottom of rue Sainte-Ursule) is the best.
• Buy a bus pass. A 1-day bus pass costs $9 CAD and will save you money if you plan to bus around the city.
• Walk along the city fortifications and atop the city gates. Its FREE!
• Visit the churches and libraries as they are FREE and quite beautiful.
• Visit Bar Sainte-Angèle for cheap beer!
• Couchsurf for most of your visit and save money on accommodation (plus meet amazing and friendly locals).

Getting Around Québec City

Québec City is a walking city. It is very easy to explore the main neighbourhoods (Vieux-Québec, Petit-Champlain, Place-Royale, Vieux-Port, Grande Allée, Montcalm, and Saint-Jean-Baptiste) by foot. The outer neighborhoods of Saint-Roch, Saint-Sauveur, and Limoilou can be reached by bus or on foot (they’re just 20-30 minutes away if you walk).

A single bus fare is $3.75 CAD, unless you go to an authorized seller and buy a ticket ; then the cost is $3.25 CAD. You can also buy passes that cut the cost, especially if you want to venture out to places like Chute Montmorency (Montmorency Falls):

• A day pass is $9 CAD
• An unlimited weekend pass is $16.25 CAD
• A 5-consecutive-days pass is $31.50 CAD

Download the RTC (Réseau de Transport de la Capitale) Nomade mobile app to check routes while you’re out exploring. The app gives you information on schedules, as well as the closest stop to your location and when the next bus will arrive.

Come explore this lovely city, sit on a patio, eat poutine, drink with the locals , and marvel at the beauty of Château Frontenac as it looms over the lower city. Sit at the top of Terrasse Pierre-Dugua-de-Mons to watch the sunset and snap a picture-perfect shot of the château, Old City, and Saint Lawrence River.

I came to Québec City because I love the architecture, culture, and history. I stayed because of the food, the people, and the big-village vibe. Québec City has a charm and magic about it that is infectious. It is a Northern paradise of food, culture, and architecture — and I hope you come and visit soon!

Pamela is a Canadian travel writer and blogger who left her job in 2010 to travel the world. While Southeast Asia and Scotland rank among her favorite destinations, she fell head-over-heels for Québec City and now calls it home. She now runs Urban Quebec Guide , a blog that showcases the best Quebec has to offer.

Book Your Trip to Canada: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner or Momondo to find a cheap flight. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned. Start with Skyscanner first though because they have the biggest reach!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Canada? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Canada for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The Best One Week Quebec Road Trip Itinerary

Quebec isn’t known as la belle province for nothing. This beautiful part of Canada is perfect for a road trip. You can see a lot of Quebec’s natural beauty in just one week. Quebec is a fantastic option for a scenic road trip in North America as it has a little bit of everything. Between one of the longest fjords in the world, spectacular whale-watching, a historic walled-city, and the beautiful Laurentian mountains, there’s no shortage of sightseeing.

I’ve got everything you need in this guide to plan the perfect road trip to Quebec including where to stay and some great restaurants and stops along the way.

This post contains affiliate links , If you make a purchase through these links I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Table of Contents

Planning Your Quebec Road Trip

Length:  7 days, 6 nights Approximate km/miles:  2044 km (1270 miles), 23 hours round trip Start and End Point:  Toronto, but Montreal or Quebec City would be much better Cities/Towns:  La Malbaie, Tadoussac, Quebec City Top Sights:  Whales, Saguenay Fjord, Acropole des Draveurs Hike, Montmorency Falls, Quebec City Optional Add-On: Two days in Montreal at the beginning or end

When to do A Road Trip to Quebec

While Quebec City can be visited year-round, including winter for Carnaval, this road trip is better for warmer months. If you want to see the whales in Tadoussac the best months are May to October . I did this itinerary to Quebec in August and it was quite hot and humid in Quebec City. In the future, I would avoid July-August because hotels and tours get booked up and visit in May or late September. I think autumn would be especially nice to visit Quebec to see the colourful leaves.

What to Do in Advance of Your Road trip

• Book your whale-watching tour for Tadoussac, they do book up!
• Book your accomodation. Book as early as possible as places between La Malbaie and Tadoussac will become unavailable and in Quebec City the prices will rise. I use booking.com
• Make dinner reservations for Quebec City
• Book any tours, Museum of Civilisation tickets, and via ferratas in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Book your car rental if needed to get the best rates, I use Discover Cars

Where to Stay in Quebec

For visiting Tadoussac and the Saguenay Fjord I found it best to stay on the west side of the Fjord to avoid having to take the ferry. However, Tadoussac is an adorable town. My pick would be La Malbaie for convenience with restaurants and it’s very charming. La Malbaie : Hotel au Petit Berger is where I would stay as it’s a great location and affordable. If I was splurging it would be Fairmont le Manoir Richelieu . Tadoussac: I would stay at Hotel Tadoussac . The front of the hotel is right on the water and there are fantastic views of the bay. Saint-Simeon : I stayed at Motel Vue Belvedere . Midway between Tadoussac and La Malbaie and very conveniently right at the ferry terminal to go across the St. Lawrence. It’s a great budget option. Quebec City: I stayed at B&B La Marquise de Bassano . The location could not be better, it was close to everything. The room was fantastic and really big and a really yummy breakfast is included.

Where to Eat in Quebec

Tadoussac Cafe Boheme is the perfect place for lunch without the crowds that places near the whale tours had. La Malbaie Restaurant L’Orchidee was fantastic and had delicious food and is especially great for seafood. There are vegetarian options on the menu as well. Ile d’Orleans Cassis Monna & Filles or Ste-Pétronille for pizza are both great options with scenic views. Quebec City Pizzeria No 900 for yummy pasta and pizza. Don Vegan for the fantastic food and patio right on a fountain, a seriously romantic setting! Smith Cafe was great for always being nearby and having delicious pastries and coffee, while Mary’s Popcorn was irrestible to buy and a great snack while exploring the city. Izakaya Hono is a walk from the old city but worth it for the yummy shumai dumplings and Japanese food.

Renting a Car in Quebec

If you need a rental car for this trip, make sure you book in advance to get the best deals. I use Discover Cars to compare pricing between local and international companies. It’s easy to compare ratings of companies to book with a reliable company. I found driving in Quebec to be quite easy and straightforward with lots of beautiful highway scenery.

7-Day Quebec Road Trip

Day 1: driving to saint simeon.

I started this trip from Toronto so my first vacation day was all about driving. From Toronto to Saint Simeon is about 10 hours, not including stops.

If you are coming from an international destination, flying into Quebec City or Montreal would be your best options for this itinerary.

For me, the first day was all about getting close to Tadoussac. I stayed in Saint Simeon at Motel Vue Belvedere as it was only 25 minutes to either Tadoussac and La Malbaie, although Tadoussac requires a ferry. La Malbaie is a very cute town and a great place to grab food. The drive from La Malbaie to Tadoussac is beautiful as great views of the St. Lawrence river and winding hilly roads.

Day 2: Tadoussac and Whale Watching

One of the reason’s I wanted to visit Tadoussac was for whale watching. Start your day early and take the ferry over to Tadoussac. Getting the ferry was a very simple process. I was happy to have a bit of time before my whale-watching tour to explore the area around the tour departure point as there are some great views from the rocks here. And, a good omen for the day, I saw whales in the distance.

You have a couple of options for whale watching here. There are standard boat tours with a large boat that is perfect if you are traveling with young kids or don’t want to be splashed by icy waters. Or, there are Zodiac tours. Zodiacs are a smaller open-top boat that can get closer to the whales and is quite fast. I went with this Zodiac tour and really liked it. They do give you waterproof pants and jackets to wear to protect you from the icy cold water. I recommend wearing long pants and a long shirt, and I regretted not having gloves.

The whale-watching tour I did was 2.5 hours long and ended with a short tour of the adjacent Saguenay fjord. There are a dozen species of whale here as well as seals and porpoises. Tadoussac is considered to be the best place to go whale watching in Quebec. While on the whale-watching tour I saw three different species fairly close, including humpbacks, minke, and fin whales.

After the whale watching tour, spend some time in the town of Tadoussac and grab lunch. It’s quite a cute town and it’s nice to walk along the boardwalk here.

Following lunch, explore the Saguenay Fjord National Park by driving towards Baie Sainte-Marguerite and park at “Centre de découverte et de service Le Béluga.” From here, walk the Sentier le Fjord trail and visit the Halte du Beluga lookout point. The trail is 6 km long and you will need about 2-3 hours depending on how long you spend at the viewpoint. I really liked this hike as it was easy but had fantastic views of the Saguenay fjord. From the Halte du Beluga viewpoint I could see whales in the distance but I couldn’t tell if they were belugas.

After the hike, head back towards Tadoussac and to dinner and your hotel for the night. One quick stop you can do is at a cute covered bridge, the Pont Louis-Gravel, not far from the Sentier le Fjord trail.

Day 3: Explore More of Quebec’s Nature

On my third day, I decided to tackle the Acropole des Draveurs hike. It’s a 10.6 km out and back hike that is constant uphill and takes about 5 hours in total. The hike is located in the Hautes‑Gorges-de-la-Rivière‑Malbaie National Park and is considered to be one of the best hikes in Quebec. The views at the top are absolutely amazing and breathtaking but the hike itself is quite difficult, especially on a hot day. It’s also a terrible idea right before Quebec City, which itself has a ton of stairs in the old city. If you do decide to do this hike, make sure you get there early and take plenty of water.

A more relaxing option for today’s plan is to explore more of the Saguenay Fjord National Park. One thing I really wanted to fit into my itinerary was doing one of the via ferratas in the park. There are also lots of trails to in Saguenay that looked nice for a day of hiking.

End your day in La Malbaie. There are some nice restaurants here but you may need reservations as they do fill up. It’s nice to drive along the main highway here that goes in front of the bay and then take chemin du Havre road towards the La Malbaie train station. It’s a very nice little town and is a good option to stay at, especially if you want to stay at the Hôtel Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu , a gorgeous hotel on the edge of La Malbaie.

Day 4: Drive to Quebec City

Even though today is a bit of a transit day, there are still things to stop and see on the way to Quebec City so I recommend leaving early to give time for that.

The first stop of the day is Sanctuaire Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré . This shrine is believed by Catholics to cure the ailments of the sick and disabled. There is a display inside of crutches canes that I believe are from those who have become better after praying at the shrine. This basilica is a great stop if you are into architecture. The interior has beautiful mosaics and paintings. The highlight for me here was the basement chapel as the murals here seemed based on the early history of Quebec. The ceiling also had a beautiful snowflake motif.

From Sainte Anne’s head to Montmorency Falls . The parking situation was a little chaotic when I visited. There are three parking lots. One at the base of the cable car, this parking lot seemed like it had a lot of space, you can buy cable car tickets in advance here . There are also two parking lots at the top of the falls that are walking distance to the falls. The one on the east side of the falls off of rue Montmorency is the one I would recommend as the line moved quickly. The parking lot on the west side off of chemin du manoir seemed awful with lots of cars and camper vans backed up onto the main street.

Montmorency Falls is definitely worth visiting. At 83m (272 ft.) tall it’s taller than Niagara Falls and it’s quite an impressive sight. I spent a couple of hours wandering across the bridge and looking at the viewpoints from the panoramic stairs. You could also easily spend a day here as they also offer ziplines and a via ferrata.

After Montmorency Falls, you will be a 15-minute drive to Quebec City. At this point you either head to your hotel and check in or extend your day and drive around Ile d’Orléans . Ile d’Orléans is an island in the St.Lawrence river that is connected to the mainland by a long bridge. It’s one of the first places colonized by the French and is beautiful to drive around and stop at the small shops and farms.

One of the highlights on Ile d’Orleans was Cassis Monna & Filles , a blackcurrent farm. The farm has views of the orchard and you can learn a little bit about the farming practices and buy a bottle of Creme de Cassis for Kir Royales. I wish I had made a reservation for lunch here as it looked fanastic but was too busy. I ended up trying the blackcurrant softserve ice cream, which was delicious. Another great stop on the island was La Nougaterie Québec , which has fresh candy and nougat and is really yummy. Chocolaterie de l’Ile d’Orleans is a chocolate and ice cream shop that is very popular and delicious. I had a couple of cideries on my list but unfortunately they were closed the day I visited but Ste-Pétronille and Verger Bilodeau were both on my wishlist.

After exploring the island, check in to your hotel in Quebec City. I recommend one in walking distance to everything in the Old Town of Quebec. The B&B La Marquise de Bassano was perfect, I could not have been happier with the value and room here.

Day 5 and 6: Quebec City

Two full days in Quebec City should be enough to explore the Old Town and get a feel for the city. Quebec is the only city north of Mexico whose walls still exist, and because of this the entire walled area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You won’t need a car for this part so you can park it for the next couple days. I found everything in Quebec City to be in walking distance except for the Plains of Abraham. If you want to skip some of the stairs and walking this hop-on-hop-off bus tour would be a great option for the first day.

Spend your first day in Quebec City exploring Vieux-Québec (Old Quebec). There are lots of cute shops to discover and historic sights. Make sure to give yourself time to take in the street performances in front of the Chateau Frontenac Hotel . The circus acts are a lot of fun and were one of the highlights for me.

If you’ve bought a hop-on-hop-off bus tour , it’s a great day to make a visit to the Plains of Abraham. I found it easy to spend the day wandering the historic area looking at the art installations and the charming stone buildings. It’s worth it to walk to the end of Dufferin Terrace and up to the Citadelle for views of the city. You can then walk along the Citadelle walls a bit and make your way over to St. Louis Gate. While you can’t easily walk the walls of Quebec City, you can go up on the gates.

End the day strolling along the Dufferin Terrace for views of the St. Lawrence and Chateau Frontenac.

On your second day in Quebec City, spend some time relaxing in the morning and exploring the lower part of the old town. Make sure to take in the Quebec City Mural and the Place Royale if you haven’t yet. Then head over to the Museum of Civilisation . You may need to book your tickets in advance for this as it is popular, especially the special exhibits. You can easily spend an afternoon here and it’s a great respite from the humid, hot weather Quebec can have in summer (especially in August). One thing I wish I had time for was a visit to the Nordic Spa that’s located right in the city, maybe next time! Spend your evening strolling the streets and taking in performances in front of the Chateau Frontenac.

How to Extend this Quebec Road Trip

If you have more than a week in Quebec, I highly recommend adding on a 2 day visit to Montreal . For this itinerary, it would work well to add Montreal to either the very beginning or end of the trip. Montreal could also work well as a start and end point if you are arriving internationally by plane.

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This sure did bring back a lot of memories of my road trip back in 2010 (that long ago!) I only did Montreal and Quebec Ville but it looks like there is so much more to see, so I need to go back. Great tips here and loving the photography. 🙂

Hi Danik, glad you enjoyed the post, thank you for your comment! Quebec is such a great place to road trip, it might be my favourite in Canada. Hope you get a chance to revisit it!

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What are you looking for?

Ultimate 10 day quebec road trip itinerary [fresh for 2024].

Like all provinces in Canada, Quebec is in its own ways entirely unique.

Not least the fact it’s a predominantly French speaking province (which already makes it unique within an English speaking country!) 

On top of that, Quebec offers so much in terms of history, culture and scenery.

We actually did a Quebec road trip during the winter/spring months, so there was a lot of snow around.

Spending a while exploring as much as we could and capturing the true natural and architectural beauty of this part of North America.

Below I have pulled together our experience to craft what I believe to be the ultimate 10 day itinerary for road tripping Quebec.

Allowing you to see a mix of wonderful cities, national historic sites, spectacular nature and as much of the province as possible!

Travellerspoint

Do you have your vehicle sorted yet?

If you’re flying into Canada you’re going to need to find a vehicle to rent for your trip.

We’d strongly recommend renting a campervan for this Quebec road trip as you’ve got your accommodation, vehicle and food all in one.

Renting an RV means you can save on other items such as hotels and eating out, but you do need to remember there are other costs involved that you might not have considered, like petrol, taxes and added extras.

When searching for the perfect vehicle for this Canada road trip you’ll want to make sure it has all the amenities and facilities you need to make this road trip perfect.

A great way to find the vehicle that’s just right for you is to use a motorhome rental agency. We love GoSee .

Previously known as Motorhome Republic, it’s one of the largest and most renowned rental agencies in the world so you can rely on them to get you the best vehicle.

This Quebec road trip itinerary starts in Montreal, where there are loads of great RV rental firms. In fact, Canada as a whole has endless RV Rentals so you'll have plenty of choices.

If you would rather rent a car and stay in hotels, we recommend Rentalcars for car rentals or you can check out our guide to the best car rental sites here...

We also have a guide on how to get cheap hotels , to help you keep your road trip costs down.

Where to start your Quebec Road Trip?

In terms of convenience, I would suggest starting in Montreal since it’s easy to fly there and you’ll find lots of options when it comes to RV rentals .

When is the best time to visit Quebec?

We visited in the winter/early spring months and it wasn’t a bad time to visit, it was just super cold and there were some challenges with keeping the van warm.

However, it’s quite charming if you love snow, and want to see Quebec city in the snow (which is a very European style city- the only European style one in all of Canada).

If you'd prefer beautiful fall colours, then go in the autumn since Quebec is famous for its oranges, red and yellows!

And of course summer is a popular month, with great temperatures, but expect higher prices and more crowds. 

Ultimate Quebec Road Trip Itinerary 

I’m basing this road trip as if you're starting from Montreal, and the reason I’m doing so is because that is your best location to get a campervan rental. However, you could start from Quebec City direction, if you’ve got your own vehicle and are coming in from New Brunswick! 

Canada really is one of the best places to visit anywhere in the world , especially for road trips! 

So kick back, relax and enjoy this 10 day Quebec road trip itinerary to really make the most of this beautiful corner of the world.

Days 1-2: Montreal

Montreal is an awesome place to visit, there is so much to see and do in this city, and you will definitely need at least 2 days to see the highlights (if you miss anything, you can always visit more sites on the return of your Quebec road trip!)

This is a bucket list destination for sure, with so many brilliant things to do in Montreal, Quebec .

From world class museums and colourful street art, to cosy jazz bars and renowned music and comedy festivals throughout the year.

The great thing about Montreal is that there’s always amazing things to do no matter what the season, or weather.

Some of our top recommendations include:

• Axe Throwing - definitely one of the most unique activities in the city, we did it at a place called Rage
• Visit the Underground City - Montreal has the largest underground pedestrian network in the world
• Montreal Botanical Gardens
• Food tour around Mile End

If you're looking to see the highlights of Montreal in a short amount of time then check out this guided bus tour or this hop-on hop-off bus tour ! 

Day 3: Trois-Rivières (1 hour 50 minute drive from Montreal) 

After spending a few days enjoying Montreal, it’s time to get on the road and head to the town of Trois-Rivieres , which is around 140 km away.

This is a super cute little town that offers a lot of charm, and a bunch of great vegetarian restaurants (yay for us!). 

It’s the second oldest city in Quebec and one of the oldest industrial cities in the whole of Canada, with traces of the historical local paper industry scattered through the riverfront Borealis museum .

Some of the best things to do in Trois-Rivieres include:

• Stroll through Old Trois Rivieres
• Centre d’exposition Raymond-Lasnier - contemporary art centre
• Grab a bite to eat - like we said, there’s an amazing selection of veggie and vegan restaurants in Trois-Rivieres  
• Old Prison of Trois-Rivières - dates back to 1822
• Visit the Forges du Saint-Maurice   - a national historic sight with artefacts from Canada’s first iron-working community

Here's some more information on the best things to do in Trois-Rivières !

Days 3-4: Quebec City (1 hour 22 minute drive from Trois-Rivieres)

During your road trip to Quebec city, you'll likely come across a few other worthy spots to visit.

However, Quebec City is one of the highlights of this road trip so you'll want to spend at least two days here. It's the capital of the Quebec province, but the second largest city.

It doesn’t feel like Canada at all . In fact it feels like a totally different place, in particular a cute European French town and we loved it.

It's easily one of the best places to visit in Canada (at least in my opinion).

With the cobblestone streets, cute cafes and restaurants, and the many historic sights, you’re guaranteed a magical experience in Quebec City.

If you’re not already feeling suitably convinced to visit, it’s worth mentioning that Quebec City is the oldest city in Canada, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right.

We have a full guide on what to do in Quebec city , so feel free to pull more information and some things to do from there. 

I personally feel like one full day in Quebec city is enough to get an overview of all the sites, however, if you wanted to stay overnight you could treat yourself to a stay in the “ castle ”.

Some of our favourite things to do in the city include Petit-Champlain , Chaudiere Falls Park, and Old Quebec City. Depending on the time of year, you can also go whale-watching.

To see the best of Quebec city then why not check out this 2-hour walking tour or this sightseeing cruise !

Days 4-5: Saguenay (3 hour 5 minute drive from Quebec City)

You’ll be taking the slightly longer route to Saguenay from Quebec City, so you can stop at Montmorency Falls.

It’s only a 7.5 mile journey from Quebec City, so not exactly a full day trip, but you’ll want to allow a good few hours to explore and enjoy the area.

The waterfalls are surrounded by the Montmorency Falls Park, and are found at the mouth of the Montmorency River. These falls are 83m tall, 30m higher than Niagrara falls .

There are staircases that allow visitors to view the falls from several different perspectives, and visitors can access both sides of the park via a suspension bridge. To see some of the best views of the park and waterfalls, take the cable car .

If you’re visiting in summer months, the waterfalls give off a yellow glow thanks to the high iron content in the water bed. The park also hosts an international fireworks competition in the winter, with the waterfalls providing a stunning backdrop.

The drive from Montmorency Falls to Saguenay will take you via the Laurentian Mountains, which is one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world dating back to around 1 billion years ago. Once you arrive in Saguenay, you can spend the evening in this charming city.

This city is best known for Saguenay Fjord National Park, which leads to the Saint Lawrence River. Saguenay Fjord is definitely one of the best places to visit in Quebec, and there’s incredible scenery no matter what time of year you visit. 

It’s a fantastic place for wildlife or bird watching. You might catch sight of moose, beaver, porcupine and maybe even a beluga whale!

There are also some great museums to visit in Saguenay. The Musée du Fjord has history displays and an aquarium, while La Pulperie de Chicoutimi museum has lots of regional history and is located in an 1800s wood-pulp mill.

You can find out about the 1996 floods at the Musée de la Petite Maison Blanche and there is also skiing available in the winter months. 

Some of the other brilliant things to do in Saguenay include:

• Parc de la Rivière-du-Moulin - with its 35 km of maintained trails, 7.5 km of which are open in the winter for walking, running or cycling
• Go back in time at the The Val-Jalbert Historic Village
• Enjoy some local food - visit a local market, or cheese shop, or order cheese and crackers at a local cafe

Here's some more information on things to do in Saguenay if you're interested!

Days 5-6: Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier, (1 hour 58 minute drive from Saguenay)

On the evening of day 5 (or after you’ve finished up any sites in Saguenay) make the drive to Jacques-Cartier National Park . This large national park offers a visitor centre, hiking trails, campsites & rustic chalets

Fees are charged at most parks in Canada, so a great way to say money is by buying an annual Parks Canada Discovery Pass . It’s valid for a full 12 months from your date of purchase.

A family/group pass covers up to 7 people in one vehicle and costs $145CAD for the year or an adult pass is $72CAD.

Park daily admission fees can quickly add up, so this pass can pay for itself in as little as 7 days . It’s a fantastic investment if you plan on doing multiple Canada road trips , especially if you’re planning on heading to lots of parks.

On arrival at the national park, find yourself a place to camp overnight. Jacques-Cartier is home to 113 campsites , both primitive and serviced. For maximum tranquillity all of their ‘rustic’ campsites are accessible only by foot or canoe. Des Alluvions and La Bétulaie campsites are accessible by car.

These two campsites also offer ready to camp tents. Simply arrive at the campsite after an eventful day outdoors, and everything will be ready for you for a cosy night's sleep.

Winter camping is permitted at Des Alluvions and Grand-Duc, 500m and 4.5km from the visitor centre respectively. Availability will depend on snow conditions so check weather conditions in advance.

Plenty of the campsites have RV capacity, but on top of this, the De La Vallée RV area offers sites specially designed to accommodate motor homes.

After an overnight camp it’s time for a hike in the morning. There are plenty of amazing hikes to enjoy in Jacques-Cartier. 

One of the most popular hikes is the Les Loupes Trail . It’s a 5.9 mile out and back route from the visitor centre. Some other popular trails include Le Scotora , La Croisse , Les Coulees , or if you’re looking for a longer trail, the Le Draveur Nord .

You can actually go on a guided hike in this national park which lasts for around 4-6 hours.

Day 7: Montebello (Parc Omega), 4 hour 5 minute drive from National park

This is a big day of driving, (well, not really if you’re Canadian), but there will be plenty of beautiful sites to see along the way.

The best thing about long driving days is that you’re able to take the time to soak it all in. Having the whole day reserved for the drive means there are no time constraints and you can pull over for a pit stop at any time.

Although a small village with a population of only around 1000, Montebello is a lovely, cute little area surrounded by scenic landscapes. Its rustic charm, local shops and authentic cuisine mean this quaint little village really has something to offer everyone.

It’s the perfect place to spend the evening, grab a bite to eat, and stop for the night after a long day on the road.

Some great places to eat in Montebello include Restaurant Le Bistro Montebello , Napoleon , and Le Cafe Entris Amis . 

Depending on how much time you have in Montebello you could enjoy some of the sites.

‍ Some great things to do in Montebello include:

• Kenauk Park - a 25 minute drive from Montebello
• Chocomotive - a chocolate making Économusée
• Enjoy craft beer at Brasseurs de Montebello

If you fancy really treating yourself, Montebello is home to the world’s largest log cabin, so experience a luxurious retreat at Fairmont Le Château Montebello , and enjoy a good night's sleep, ready for day 8…

Day 8: Parc Omega

This is a self drive safari in your own vehicle, and it’s seriously a super cool experience. 

Driving along this 12 km car route, you’ll meet over 400 wild animals, throughout 2200 acres of wilderness . The drive takes around 90 minutes in total!

Within your day ticket, there are plenty of activities included for you to take advantage of during your visit. Activities include the First Nations Trail , the Land of the Pioneers , and the Park House , with extensive dining options.

There’s so much going on at Parc Omega throughout the whole year, and there’s also plenty of seasonal activities depending on which time of year you visit. 

Check out their website for more information, and to book your ticket in advance.

Another great thing about Parc Omega is their unique accommodation options . The most interesting has to be huts that allow you to ‘ sleep with the wolves ’. The huts have large glass windows so you can look out and see the wolves and immerse yourselves in their natural habitat.

If you're short of time in Canada then you can visit this park on a day trip from Montreal but I highly recommend allowing a whole day here and experiencing this place in your own vehicle.

From here, you can head straight on to Ottawa, less than an hour way, and enjoy an extra evening and night there.

Day 9: Ottawa (55 minutes from Parc Omega)

Ottawa is actually the capital of Canada , even though most people assume it’s Toronto or Vancouver , surprisingly, it’s not!

Ottawa is actually in Ontario , so we have stepped out of Quebec on this Quebec road trip itinerary! But seeing as the Canadian capital is so close to Parc Omega it would be rude not to pay it a visit.

Whilst there are lots of beautiful buildings to visit in the city, I don’t think you’ll need more than a day here.

Some of the best things to do in Ottawa include:

• Byward Market - one of the oldest markets in Canada , the Byward Market consists of main buildings, and open air stalls. It’s the number one tourist attraction in Ottawa. 
• Visit some of the museums - as the capital of Canada there are a whole host to choose from including the Canadian Museum of History , the National Gallery of Canada , the Canadian Museum of Nature , the Canada Agriculture Museum and the Canadian War Museum
• Rideau Canal Skateway - this UNESCO World Heritage Site becomes the longest outdoor skating rink in the world during the winter months. It’s 8 km long and is open 24 hours a day! Make sure you enjoy a Beaver Tail whilst skating here. These are deep fried dough sweets which you can buy at kiosks along the ice rink.
• Wander around Major's Hill Park
• Enjoy the nightlife - there’s a whole host of pubs, bars, lounges, nightclubs, and live jazz and blues music throughout the city. So there’s something for every kind of night owl!

If you've got a spare 1.5 hours then check out this hop-on hop-off guided city tour or this sightseeing river cruise !

A great luxury accommodation option is the 660,000 square-foot Fairmont Château Laurier , which is now a luxury hotel. The entire hotel boasts period features including stained glass windows, Roman columns, a copper roof, and Belgian marble floor.

If you don’t fancy staying here, just to see the castle is an impressive and beautiful sight!

Day 10: Montreal (2 hour 5 minute from Ottawa)

It’s time to make the drive back to Montreal to either drop your rental car back, or fly onto your next destination. If you’ve got a few days spare, then spend them checking out all the cool things Montreal has to offer! 

Likelihood is you won’t have been able to cram it all in at the start of the trip, so take some time to mop up the highlights you missed the first time round. 

Road tripping Quebec FAQ

Should i book campsites ahead of time.

Yes, especially if you’re travelling in peak season and wanting to stay within the national park campsites. You can reserve all your campsites in advance, and remember that boondocking (wild/free camping) is not legal within the national parks themselves.

You may be able to find places just outside the national park boundaries, but if you park within the national parks, you will be fined and asked to move on. 

We recommend Harvest Hosts as an alternative to campsites. With Harvest Hosts, you can stay on farms, wineries, distilleries and many more places for free in exchange for purchasing a product.

Whilst a lot of Harvest Host’s sites are in America, they do have some places in Canada so it’s worth having a look!

For hotels in cities such as Montreal and Quebec City, we recommend using booking.com  

Is a Quebec road trip expensive?

It can be especially expensive if you're paying entrance fees to the national parks and historic sites, but buying an annual Canada parks pass will alleviate some of those costs.

If you’re camping in a van/tent then make your own breakfast/lunch and dinner. Or if you’re using hotels/airbnb then try and get somewhere that has access to cooking facilities. 

Of course if you opt for some of the more luxury and unique accommodation options we’ve mentioned above, these will be considerably more expensive! 

Get yourself a parks canada pass , if you plan on visiting other national parks in Canada, it’s worth the money!

When budgeting for your trip, bear in mind that the RV rental fee alone will not be the only charge you incur for renting a vehicle. There are lots of additional costs when renting an RV , such as fuel, tax, and tolls.

Before you choose your vehicle rental, see how many miles / km are included in the rental. Rentals with unlimited mileage are the best way to keep costs down on your Quebec road trip.

What should I pack for a Quebec Road trip?

• Binoculars - especially if you’re planning on wildlife spotting in the parks. Parc Omega recommends you take binoculars to see certain animals such as rodents and birds.
• Sun cream - whether you’re visiting in the summer or the winter, you always need some SPF to keep your skin protected!
• Water - remember to always have water on board. Canada has some very isolated areas where you might not be able to access drinking water so it’s important to always have some to hand
• Reusable water bottle - to save you always having to buy water, make sure you have a refillable bottle. Buy one with a filter like Lifestraw , so you can drink water from anywhere
• Umbrella - regardless of the time of year the weather in Quebec can be merciful. A rain poncho might come in useful too!
• Snacks - road trip snacks are an essential on any road trip itinerary! Depending on the amenities in your vehicle, you might have a fridge to store fresh food / perishables, but the best road trip snacks are always non perishables with a longer use by / best before date. If you’re planning on doing sports and/or hiking, make sure you have some higher calorie energy snacks to keep yourself well fuelled.
• Offline maps - you might find yourself without signal times, and you might not be too sure where you are. Granted there aren’t too many roads to get lost down, but it’s always good to have an offline map to reassure you. We really love maps.me , just m ake sure you download the relevant maps when you have signal / wifi. 
• Hiking boots - we’ve got a few National Parks on this Quebec itinerary, with some lovely hiking trails. You’ll want to make sure you’ve got the right shoes for these hikes, as sore feet and muscles whilst living in a vehicle isn’t ideal!
• Hiking socks - can’t have the best pair of hiking boots without the best pair of hiking socks, We really love Darn Tough socks and they’re one of our favourite backpacking gifts we’ve ever been given.
• Jacket - no matter what time of year you’re travelling to Quebec you’ll want to have a jacket in tow. Something more lightweight and compact is ideal in the summer. A 3 in 1 jacket is perfect for all seasons and conditions.

Summer packing list for a Quebec road trip

• Insect repellent - during the warmer months you might encounter some unwelcome friends, especially in the forests and near lakes

Winter packing list for a Quebec road trip

• Thermals - you can never have too many layers when you’re driving through Quebec in the winter!
• Hat, scarf and gloves
• Ski gear - we’ve mentioned some great ski spots on this itinerary, especially Saguenay in the winter months. You’ll want to make sure you’re kitted out if you’re planning on hitting the slopes. But if you want to save some space, then gear will be available to hire once you’re there.

Where in Quebec will you visit?

So there’s our ultimate Quebec road trip itinerary!

We hope this has inspired you to embark on a Canada road trip, it really is a truly amazing place.

For the best experience, we'd recommend booking your activities and attractions in advance like this guided bus tour just to ensure you get a spot! 

If you have longer than 10 days in Quebec, there are plenty of other destinations you can include in your itinerary like Gaspésie National Park, the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre , and Forillon National Park.

Honestly, there are so many fantastic places to visit in Quebec Province so what are you waiting for?

If you head off on your own road trip we’d love to hear about it. 

Did you use our itinerary? 

Did you make any other stops we missed? 

We’d love to hear all about it so please drop us a comment below!

Or maybe this road trip through Quebec has inspired you to venture further afield in Canada.

If that's the case then check out some of our other Canada guides:  

• The Best Things To Do In Banff
• The Best Places To Visit In Alberta
• The Best Things To Do In Winnipeg

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December in Quebec City: The Ultimate 3-Day Winter Guide

I visited Quebec City over a 3-day weekend in December, and in that amount of time I was able to experience the most charming cobblestone streets, sidewalks lined with talented Christmas carolers, savory poutine and buttery pastries, a lively European Christmas market (YAY), picture-perfect snowfall, monasteries, castles, citadels, and more. With 3 days to spare and so, so much to see, here’s my ultimate, jam-packed 3-day guide to visiting Quebec City in the winter.

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A huge thank you to Quebec Cite for hosting my stay. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

If I asked you to name the most festive place in the world to spend the holidays, what would come to mind? New York? Germany? Solvang ? 

I have always been in love with the idea of experiencing a traditional European Christmas market. Places like France, Germany, and the Czech Republic immediately come to mind and I conjure up images of brisk weather, festive lights dancing around the dark sky, piping hot mulled wine, and stalls upon stalls of delicious food and one-of-a kind gifts. 

But here’s what I didn’t realize. You don’t need to go all the way to Europe to find magical, winter wonderland charm. But since you’re reading this post – I’m guessing you already knew that 🙂 I visited Quebec City over a 3-day weekend in December, and in that amount of time I was able to experience the most charming cobblestone streets, sidewalks lined with talented Christmas carolers, savory poutine and buttery pastries, a lively European Christmas market (YAY), picture-perfect snowfall, monasteries, castles, and citadels – all within the centuries-old fortifications of Quebec City. 

It’s no question that the warmer months are easier for traveling, especially when you’re not used to colder temperatures. And Canada in the summer and fall is – I’ve heard – absolutely spectacular. But, I think winter is the most unique and idyllic time to visit Quebec City, precisely because there’s honestly nothing else quite like it in all of North America. I found myself so enamored by the snow-covered sidewalks and historic sites that I didn’t even mind the cold. But, in case you have doubts, I’ve got some packing tips to keep you cozy: 

RELATED: Packing for Quebec in the Winter

With 3 days to spare and so, so much to see, here’s my ultimate, jam-packed 3-day guide to visiting Quebec City in the winter!

The Ultimate 3-Day Guide to December in Quebec City

Day 1: sight-seeing and exploring the upper town on foot (plus, a mini history lesson).

Day one of being in Quebec City is a lot to take in, especially in the winter. Odds are, you – like me – have never seen a fortified city (that could double as the ultimate holiday snowglobe) before in your life! So ease in slowly, get your bearings, and take it all in. After landing at 9 am, I checked into my hotel, Monsieur Jean , and started my first day strolling down Rue Saint Jean to grab coffee and a sandwich at a nearby incredibly cute cafe called Paillard . It was at this exact moment that I realized how badly I needed a refresher on my high school and college French, but rest assured – smiles, eager nodding, and frantic gestures will take you far (kidding! It was actually super easy to communicate in English the entire time I was in Quebec City during those all-too-frequent moments where I’d panic and forget every single word past bonjour and un croissant, s’il vous plait ). 

RELATED: Where to Stay in Quebec City – Monsieur Jean

After you’ve settled in and caffeinated, spend the rest of your day exploring the city. Old Quebec is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its historic relevance and well-preserved fortifications. Truthfully, while I had always known that Quebec was a French-speaking province, I knew painfully little about how that actually came to be. Turns out, Canada’s French roots date back almost 500 years ago, with the arrival of French voyagers Jacques Cartier in the 1500s and Samuel de Champlain in the early 1600s. Throughout the 1700s, British war and eventual rule prompted the arrival of widespread English-speaking prevalence, and ultimately birthed the English- and French-speaking regions of greater Canada. Today, English and French are official languages of Canada, but Quebec has the highest concentration of francophone influence, with over 90% of residents claiming French as a first language. In fact, if you have French parents and you’re born in Quebec, odds are you’re required to attend French language school growing up. The more you know! 

So, why does all of this matter? Even if you didn’t come to Quebec City in search of a history lesson, you’ll find one. The entire city is filled with nods to its origins, from the cobblestoned squares, to the names of the streets, to the immaculately preserved fortifications and citadel (which is still active!) that continue to encapsulate the city to this day.

With all this said, there’s honestly no better way to get acquainted with Old Quebec than on foot. Spend the afternoon exploring as many of these landmarks and sights as you can! 

The Gates and The Ramparts of Quebec City

The UNESCO World Heritage Site and historic landmark surrounding the city is impressive in its casual magnitude – you know that it’s descended from another lifetime, but the way that it’s been absorbed into 21st century Quebec is as staggering as it is just plain cool. For instance, the gates leading in to the Upper Town were both refitted to allow two-way traffic to pass through! 

Visit St Louis Gate ( Porte St Louis ) and St Jean Gate ( Porte St Jean ) to see this for yourself. You can even climb up the stairs at St Louis Gate to check out the view of the city and the fortification walls from the top!

ADDRESS: 2 Rue d’Auteuil, Quebec, QC

HOURS : 24 hours  

COST: It’s free to just walk up to the walls and check them out! 

Quebec Citadelle  | La Citadelle de Quebec

The Citadelle is an active military fort that preserves over 300 years of history from French, to British, to Canadian rule. You can take a guided tour of the site and the adjoining Musée Royal 22e Regiment year-round. The only things you can’t do in the winter, unfortunately, are take a night tour or watch the Changing of the Guard, which only happens in the summer and early fall. 

ADDRESS : 1 Côte de la Citadelle, Québec, QC 

HOURS : 10 am – 4 pm in the winter, 9 am – 5 pm from spring to fall 

COST : $16 CAD

Plains of Abraham

Situated on Battlefields Park – Canada’s First National Historic Park – the Plains of Abraham was the site of the Battle of Quebec in 1759. In the winter, the Plains of Abraham is a gathering spot for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating, and epic snowball fights. 

ADDRESS : The Battlefields Park, Quebec, QC

HOURS : 24 hours

COST : Free to enter

Parliament Building | Hôtel du Parlement

The Parliament building is just outside the Upper Town fortifications, and I’ve been told it’s one of the only places in the city with free admission. It’s worth it too – the building is over 100 years old and architecturally inspired by the expansion of the Louvre in Paris. On the exterior of the building, you can see 22 highly detailed statues on its facade, dedicated to individuals who have impacted Quebec’s history. 

ADDRESS : 1045 Rue des Parlementaires, Québec, QC

HOURS : Varies, but generally 8:30 am – 4:30 pm on weekends, 8 am – 5 pm on weekdays 

The Capital Observatory | L’Observatoire de la Capitale

The Observatoire de la Capitale offers the highest panoramic view of Quebec City, and is honestly one of the best ways to see the ramparts. In addition to 360-degree views, there are touchscreen tablets enabling you to click on city landmarks and historic buildings to read more about how each structure came to be. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Île d’Orléans! 

ADDRESS : 1037 Rue de la Chevrotière, Québec, QC

HOURS : 10 am – 5 pm, closed Mondays

COST : $14.75 CAD

Immersion Quebec

Immersion Quebec is a virtual reality experience that puts you right in the middle of Quebec history and the events that carved it into the city that it is today. Plus, since it’s an indoor immersive experience, it’s also a unique way to take a break from the chilly temperatures outside! 

ADDRESS : 1191 Rue Saint-Jean, Québec, QC

HOURS : 10 am – 6 pm 

COST : $17 – $22 CAD

Grande Allée

Back in the 19th century, the Grande Allée was a gathering spot for some of the city’s wealthiest residents to come and live, and the Victorian houses that were erected during this time period are still on display today. Now, the Grande Allée is a popular nightlife destination in Quebec City. There are several bars, cafes, and restaurants to explore, making this the perfect place for a nightcap on day one! I didn’t get to spend much time in the Grande Allée, but I was told that L’Atelier is one of the best spots in the area to grab cocktails.

ADDRESS : Grande Allée, Québec, QC

HOURS : Varies based on the restaurants and bars you plan to visit

Day Two: Montmorency Falls, Grand Marché, The Christmas Market, and a Castle Visit

On day two, start off by venturing a bit further outside the city walls because there is a ton to see! You can take public transportation, rent a bike, or rent a car for the morning (details at the bottom of this post). Then, after a bit of exploration, come back for a full-on dose of holiday cheer. I promise, it’s the BEST and most unique part about a December visit to Quebec (and I’m biased, obviously, because today involves the Christmas Market – duh!). 

Montmorency Falls

Located just 15 minutes outside of Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls is a 272-foot waterfall (nearly 100 feet taller than Niagara!) that you can drive right up to and visit. In the summer, Montmorency Falls is a mighty and breathtaking force. But in the winter, the falls are iced over and flanked by snow, which in my opinion is a really unique phenomenon to witness up close. You can visit the falls at the bottom or drive on up to the top, where you can walk above the water on a suspended bridge. During specific times of year, you can take a cable car, go ziplining, and maneuver up or down a 487-step staircase that takes you along the side of the cliff for an even closer view of the water. Unfortunately, the zip line isn’t open in December (it’s open from mid-May to mid-October). But if you plan your trip just right, you can snag a cable car ride (they close from November to December 25, and reopen on December 26!). Otherwise, a visit to the falls and a stroll over the suspension bridge – which is open year-round – is fantastic on its own, too. 

ADDRESS : 5300 Boulevard Sainte-Anne, Québec, QC

HOURS : Varies depending on the season 

COST : $3 – $10 CAD

The New Grand Market | Le Grand Marché de Québec

Located in the Loumilou neighborhood – just outside of Old Quebec – the Grand Marché is essentially an indoor farmers market that fuses together an explosion of cuisines, delicacies, and produce. You can find everything from your standard meat and cheese stands to artisan pastry chefs and ice wine producers, and everything is as local and fresh as it gets. In addition to this place just being flat-out delicious, it’s incredibly festive come holiday time, and you can learn a lot about Quebec’s culinary scene (and snag some tasty samples) as long as you just walk up and ask! And, if you want an actual sit-down meal, Les Arrivages is the Grand Marché’s resident eatery, inspired by seasonal products and produce sourced from the market’s vendors. 

My visit to the Grand Marché happened to be where I had my very first poutine in Canada (at Les Arrivages), and my very first introduction to fois gras, ice wine, and ice cider. While I’m still unsure whether or not I can bring myself to appreciate fois gras, the ice cider from Cidrerie Verger Bilodeau was so delicious I ended up bringing home 4 bottles as Christmas gifts.

ADDRESS : 250 section M, Boulevard Wilfrid-Hamel, Québec, QC

HOURS : 9 am to 5 or 6 pm 

German Christmas Market | Noel Allemand Quebec

Dun dun dun dunnn. The reason I was drawn to Quebec City in the winter in the first place – the Christmas Market! Quebec’s German Christmas Market is open from the end of November to the weekend before Christmas (typically), and literally takes over the center of Old Quebec. Each week from Thursday to Sunday, the heart of the Upper Town lights up with European meals, gluhwein (hot wine), Canadian treats (like the must-try, do-not-leave-Canada-before-eating-this maple pie), vendors, live music, performances, and more! It’s magical no matter how old you are. We’re all kids at heart when there’s pie and presents and snow and gluhwein involved, am I right? 

Make sure to bring some Canadian currency with you when visiting the Christmas Market, as most vendors and food stalls I encountered while I was there were cash-only. If you’re in a pinch, there’s a Desjardins (a Canadian bank) ATM at 19 Rue des Jardins, right by where the Christmas Market takes place.

ADDRESS : Place et Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, Québec, QC

HOURS : Thursday 11 am – 8 pm, Friday & Saturday 11 am – 9 pm, Sunday 11 am – 6 pm from late November till the weekend before Christmas

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

Last but definitely not least, why not end your day off strong with a visit to a castle? The Château Frontenac is without question an icon of Old Quebec. It’s a historic hotel that’s been part of the city’s footprint since 1893, and was originally fashioned as one of Canada’s first grand railway hotels. Basically, what this means is that the hotel was originally conceived to not only be landmark in the city, but to also house the patrons of the country’s expanding rail system, which back in the day was a very fashionable and posh affair if you were a passenger (so, naturally you needed an accommodation to match). The Château Frontenac was designed in a ‘chateauesque’ style, borrowing elements from medieval chateaus, European fortresses, and Gothic towers to create the towering structure you see today. Since being built, this hotel has been frequented by people from all over the world, including celebrities and figureheads, from Celine Dion and Steven Spielberg to Winston Churchill and President Franklin D. Roosevelt. 

If you didn’t get enough to eat at the Christmas Market, head straight to Le Sam, a cozy bistro with tasty cocktails and incredible poutine (could I not?). Or, if you’re in search of cocktails and ambiance, check out 1608, a stunning, elegant cocktail bar that overlooks the St. Lawrence River. 

ADDRESS : 1 Rue des Carrières, Québec, QC

HOURS : 24 hours, but note that Le Sam and 1608 have different operating hours if you’re planning to visit for food or drinks

Day Three: Toboggan Rides, Exploring Lower Town, Eating at a Monastery, and Ice Skating at Night

After spending two days exploring Upper Town and beyond, the third and final day is all about squeezing in as much as possible before leaving (so sad, I know). Start out back at the Château Frontenac with a toboggan ride, then head down to Old Quebec’s Lower Town for an afternoon of exploring some of the city’s most picturesque streets. 

Toboggan Rides | Au 1884

Behind the Château Frontenac on the Dufferin Terrace, you’ll find Quebec City’s famous toboggan rides. For just a couple bucks, you can speed down one of the 3 icy runs. I didn’t think it would be as fun as it was, but it was awesome and the view of the Chateau from the top was breathtaking. I would have stayed to ride again and again if there wasn’t such a long wait (it’s a pretty popular attraction). 

ADDRESS : 1 Rue des Carrières (derrière), Dufferin Terrace, Québec, QC

HOURS : Daily from 10 am – 10 pm (but can vary depending on the weather) from mid-December to mid-March 

COST : $3 CAD for 1 slide, $7 CAD for 1 slide plus hot chocolate, $10 CAD for 4 slides

Funicular | Funiculaire

For another fun – albeit short – ride, you can take a funicular car ride from Dufferin Terrace down to Lower Town. You can take a set of stairs all the way down to the bottom as well, but this funicular ride shouldn’t be missed. It’s been in operation since 1879!

ADDRESS : 16 Rue du Petit Champlain, Québec, QC

HOURS : 7:30 am – 11 pm 

COST : $3 CAD

Place Royale

At a first glance, the Place Royale may just look like a charming, yet simple town square. But if you look closer you’ll see the surrounding 17th and 19th century restored restaurants and flats, the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires (built in 1688!), and a bust dedicated to Samuel de Champlain. This square is, in fact, where Quebec City was founded, and where French Canada was born. In the winter, this square is adorned with a giant Christmas tree and often frequented by carolers. It’s a great place to get some photos and take in the scenery!

ADDRESS : 2-4 Rue des Pains Bénits, Ville de Québec, QC

HOURS :  24 hours

Quartier Petit Champlain

Around the corner, the Quartier Petit Champlain is home to what many call ‘postcard-perfect streets.’ The Rue du Petit Champlain is one of the oldest commercial streets in North America and one of the most charmingly festive spots in all of Quebec City. Here, you’ll find unique boutiques, the occasional maple taffy stand (a must-try), and holiday decor that stays up all winter long. Definitely plan to spend some time window shopping here – it’s even more gorgeous than any pictures can do justice! 

ADDRESS : 61 Rue du Petit Champlain, Québec, QC 

Monastére des Augustines 

Back in Upper Town, pay a visit to the Monastere des Augustines – a monastery and hospital that has recently rebranded itself into a wellness retreat. What used to be a place of solitude for cloistered Augustinian nuns is now a boutique hotel, a museum, a yoga studio, and a restaurant, which was a project initiated by the nuns themselves! Come visit the museum or ask to go on a tour of the hotel. You’ll find touches of original architecture from the building’s humble beginnings, mixed with renovations to transform the space into what it is today.

But, the reason I recommend paying this monastery a visit at the end of the day is because of their onsite restaurant. You won’t find posh decor or a loud dining room, but the ambiance of the restaurant is one that is simple and equally inviting for groups and solo eaters alike. Devoted to wellness, slow dining, and the simple celebration of food, a dinner at the monastery is an experience in itself if you’re passionate about food, and one that is unlike anything you’ve probably ever encountered before. You can have multiple courses centered around a main dish of fish, meat, or vegetarian, or you can even request vegan or any other dietary choices you might have, and the chefs are incredibly accommodating. I hate olives with the fiercest passion (second only to mushrooms), but this meal at the monastery was the ONLY place in my entire life where I not only took one bite of the olives on my place… I ate every last one. Pair your dinner with a bottle of wine and wrap things up with one of the monastery’s own tea blends. Because of the slow, multi-course dinner selections, plan to spend around 2 hours here. A bit of a pricier meal, but definitely a memorable one. 

ADDRESS : 77 Rue des Remparts, Québec, QC

HOURS : Open for breakfast (7 am – 9:30 am), lunch (12 pm – 2 pm), and dinner (6 pm – 8 or 9 pm). Multi-course dinners are available from Tuesday to Saturday, with a buffet option on Sundays and Mondays. Reservations are required before 5 pm (same-day) for dinner. 

COST : ~$46 CAD for dinner

Ice Skating | Patinoire Place D’Youville 

To end your 3-day December weekend in Quebec, I couldn’t think of a better way to round things out than with some nighttime skating at Old Quebec’s outdoor skating rink! Situated right next to the St Jean Gate and surrounded by city lights and holiday decor, this ice rink is an ideal setting for taking it all in and savoring your last moments in the city. 

ADDRESS : 965 Rue Saint-Jean, Québec, QC

HOURS : Open daily between mid-November and mid-March from 10 am and 12 pm to 10 pm 

COST : Free to enter, $8 CAD to rent skates 

Other Things To Do If You Have More Time

Of course, if you wind up with more than 3 days to spend in Quebec City, here are some more activities and sights to add to your itinerary! 

Cartier Street: A shopping street outside the city walls that’s more local and a bit more upscale than the souvenir shops you’ll find in Old Quebec. 

Museums : There are several museums to check out throughout the city! Some that were recommended to me are the Museum of Civilization, the Musee National Des Beaux-Arts du Quebec, the Musee de L’Amerique Francophone, and Morrin Centre. 

Old Port: Just beyond Petit Champlain and the Place Royal, the Old Port is another fascinating place to explore. You can also take a ferry near here to cross the St Lawrence River! It takes just 15 minutes to get from one side to the other, and you’re rewarded with the most incredible views of Old Quebec.

Île d’Orleans: Rent a car or book a tour to drive across the bridge to Île D’Orleans, an island focused primarily on agriculture. You can spend an entire day exploring the island, sampling food and ice cider, exploring local villages, and meandering through the island’s countless artisanal shops. 

Where to Stay

Monsieur Jean : a brand new boutique hotel in Upper Town

Fairmont Chateau Frontenac : the iconic castle hotel of Old Quebec 

Airbnb Options ( New to Airbnb? Use this link to save up to $55 on your first booking! )

Other Hotel Options in Quebec City

Where to Eat and Drink

Chic Shack 

Louise Taverne & Bar a Vin

Bistro Le Sam

Tips To Know Before You Go

Currency : Quebec City uses the Canadian Dollar ($1 CAD = $0.77 USD, roughly) 

Language : Quebec City is predominantly (over 90%) French-speaking, but a majority of the population also speaks great English, so you’ll have very few – if any – problems getting around. 

Transportation : Old Quebec is a walking city! But if you want to get out and explore, you can rent a bike or rent a car. Uber is also available, as well as local taxi services which seemed pretty efficient. 

Find car rentals

Call a Taxi: Taxi Coop Quebec (+1 418-525-5191)

Take Public Transportation

To get to Montmorency Falls without a car: Take the metro bus (800) and get off at the stop named Brideau.

To get to Île d’Orleans without a car: The easiest way to explore the island without a car is with a tour. Check out Quebec Bus Tours and Quebec Adventure Tours .

To get to the Grand Marché without a car: Rent a bike and take one of the many bike routes leading straight there! Or, take the metro bus (801, 802) or city bus (3, 4). 

Sunset Time : The sun sets in December around 4 – 4:30 pm. Keep this in mind when planning your schedule!

Weather : Quebec City is usually anywhere from -10º F to 30º F in December. You’ll usually find either crystal-clear skies or overcast days with fresh snowfall, so it’s best to be prepared for anything. 

Attire : Bring lots of layers and make sure your outer layers are waterproof in case of snow! For a full packing list, check out my guide to packing for Quebec in the winter here .

After my final evening ice skating, I caught an early-morning flight to Toronto at 5 am to start making my way back home (and straight to work!) on Monday morning. Was I a bit groggy? Sure. But I’ll do anything for an epic long weekend trip.

All that said, Quebec City is a magical long weekend getaway in the winter months. For an incredibly festive destination so beautiful you’d wonder whether you were on the set of a Christmas movie, a visit to Quebec is a definite must. 

Ready to Go to Quebec?

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Have you ever been to Quebec City, or are you planning to go? What are you most excited to do or experience? Tell me in the comments below! 

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Read This Next:

7 Festive Things To Do in Quebec City if You Love All Things Christmas

Where to Stay in Quebec City: Monsieur Jean

What to Pack for Quebec City in the Winter: A Carry On-Only Guide

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Hey there! I’m Rachel, a travel writer and a full-time advertising / marketing expert. In 2019, I traveled more than 25 times while working 9 to 5, and since then I’ve committed myself to living a more adventurous life, even if it means bringing my laptop along for the ride. Are you hungry to travel more, but overwhelmed with how to juggle work and play? You’ve come to the right place!

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• Updated on: January 19, 2020

5 Responses

We visited Quebec City in the Fall and loved it then, but can’t wait to goin the Winter! We rented a car while there and visited Montmorency Falls. We so enjoyed the beauty of the Fall color and the Falls. We visited Vignoble Winery also. We so enjoyed Old Quebec, lower town, upper town, and found everyone so friendly! The quaint shops, pubs, and restaurants were so much fun! The Fairmont was gorgeous! I do hope we go during the Christmas Markets next winter.

I would LOVE to see Quebec in the fall. Let’s trade! It’s absolutely spectacular in the winter when it’s snowing 🙂

I’m, from Montreal, I visit Quebec city often. Very beautiful city to visit. You should try to visit during the Quebec Winter Carnival the city come alive with activity it is a must! Thanks for the nice review.

I REALLY want to!!! I hope that’s how I’ll spend my next visit to Quebec, fingers crossed!

My wife & I are planning a Christmas visit to old Quebec in December, the 21 to the 27. It looks like the city really lights up for the holidays & we are looking forward to being there. We are interested in your tours & if possible, any suggestions you might have on hotels . Thank You Paula & Dennis Smith

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Quebec Family Travel Blog

Discover La Belle Province from the St. Lawrence River through Quebec City, and the Maritimes through our Quebec family travel blog.

There’s a Lot More To Quebec Than Poutine! Discover Our Guide To Family Travel In Quebec

Quebec history dates back hundreds of years. From the timeless history of Quebec’s Indigenous experiences to the magical cities and wildlife, Travel through Canada’s only francophone province is like a taking a journey back in time.

Quebec City is the oldest city in Canada and its history is overshadowed only by the natural beauty that the province has on show.

Explore the quaint towns along the St. Lawrence River, go whale watching in Tadoussac , or take a road trip through timeless small towns. Our Quebec guide is stuffed with gorgeous landscapes and unforgettable destinations. All with a side of poutine!

Discover the Beauty of Quebec

Check out some of our most popular Ontario blog posts.

Tips For Family Travel in Quebec

Travel in Quebec is different than in much of Canada. To start, the official language in Quebec is French. Quebec is the only province in Canada that doesn’t count English as an official language, and they are fiercely protective of their language. While it’s relatively easy to travel through the major cities of Montreal and Quebec as an English speaker, once you head out into the smaller towns, it can be difficult to find English services.

We highly recommend learning basic French greetings and phrases. Your attempts at speaking the local language is often appreciated by the locals.

• Although Montreal is the most accessible city in Quebec, Quebec City is actually the province’s capital. Not only is Quebec city the oldest city in Canada (St. Johns Newfoundland loses out on a  technicality. ) It is also a cultural hub. Quebec City is home to the world’s largest winter carnival, Carnaval de Quebec . It is also home to the most photographed hotel in the world, the beautiful Fairmont Chateau Frontenac .
• Quebec is Canada’s only francophone province. And they take that designation very seriously. There are laws in place to protect the language. And those include limiting the amount, or at least the prominence of English on signage and packaging throughout the province. There are also a number of areas, especially in rural Quebec, where English is not spoken at all.
• Montreal is Quebec’s largest city. Montreal is home to a popular arts and food scene and incredible entertainment festivals such as the Just Pour Rire (Just for Laughs) comedy festival.
• Quebec is beautiful, full of history, and offers some of the best landscapes in Eastern Canada. And family travel in Quebec is a wonderful way to teach children about early European history in North America.
• Quebec has an excellent cellular system in its major cities. You may find service spotty in the north and more remote regions of the province. I have used the Airalo eSim app for all of my international travel.

Important Words And Phrases To Know For Family Travel In Quebec

Canada is a country with two official languages, English and French. But, Canada is also a huge country, so that language can vary between local dialects, especially in the Canadian Maritimes which is separated from the rest of English-speaking Canada by the French-speaking Quebec.

French is the dominant language across the province of Quebec. They speak a regional dialect known as “Joual”, although it’s locally referred to as “Quebecois”, which varies quite a bit from traditional French found in countries such as France.

Northern Ontario and much of the Maritimes has many French-speaking communities as well, and the French influence on the language is very evident in rural communities. In fact, it was French-speaking Acadians who fled to Louisiana from the Canadian Maritimes who led to much of the rich French culture found in that state.

Because this blog is written in English, I’ll assume that you don’t need help with those words. Instead, I’ll share some of the French language important words to know.

Important French Words To Know:

Yes:  Oui

No:  Non

Thank You:  Merci

Thank You Very Much:  Merci beaucoup

You’re Welcome:  Ca va bien

Please:  Si’l vous plait

Excuse Me:  Pardon

Hello:  Bonjour

Goodbye:  Au revoir

Bathroom: Salle de bain

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Montreal And Quebec City: 4-Day Itinerary

Travel author

I have a passion for the English countryside and especially anywhere in Yorkshire. I drink far too much Yorkshire tea on my travels and even take it with me when abroad. My passion is to share travel experiences with my readers which may help them plan their holidays and save money.

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Montreal and Quebec City are two of the most interesting cities in Canada. This Montreal and Quebec City 4-day itinerary will guide you to getting the most out of both cities.

This is because they are both rich in experiences; legendary nightlife, tantalizing cuisines, sightseeing spots, a rich history, and legendary landmarks.

You might miss some amazing places if you don`t have a reference.

There are many activities to enjoy for the family, couples, or even if you are a solo traveler. Therefore, prepare for the time of your life in Montreal and Quebec City!

Table of Contents

Montreal and Quebec City 4-Day Itinerary

A trip itinerary is essential, especially for first-time visitors. It will help you plan your trip better and guide you on how to have the best experience during your stay.

That is why we created this Montreal and Quebec City 4-day itinerary to guide you to the best spots.

This itinerary will take you to the most exciting and adventurous locations in Montreal and Quebec City, from hiking trails to art museums. 

For the sake of convenience – You could rent a car to move around with. However, it is optional. Walking around Montreal is so easy, and it enables you to catch different sights better than you would in a car.

If you get tired, you can always board a metro or a public bus at very affordable rates. The same applies in Quebec City.

This itinerary is perfect for people traveling with their families, couples, and solo travelers.

Below, you will find tips on how you will have the most fun out of your four-day getaway in Montreal and Quebec City. Therefore, read on to glimpse all the good times you will have on your trip.

Day 1 in Montreal

You will do a lot of exploring and outdoor activities on this day.

Montreal has a lot to offer in terms of attraction sites and provides experiences befitting kids, adults, and even couples.

At the end of the day, you can unwind in a park or savor the town’s delicacies.

Family Option

Montreal is a perfect destination for a family getaway. The best way to begin your vacation is to have a fun-filled day full of adventures.

Some of the places you should add to your first day’s to-do list include the following.

10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Visit the Montreal Science Center

Located at the Old Port of Montreal, the Montreal Science Center is a perfect avenue for visitors of all ages to understand how Science and Technology affect our daily lives.

The center is an interactive setting that offers a hands-on experience to enable both adults and kids to explore how science and technology shape our lives.

There are rooms designed for kids and toddlers. The rooms have soft surfaces and are equipped for children to take part in pretend activities like fishing and grocery shopping.

Since Montreal is a bilingual town, signs at the center are in both English and French.

Usually – Two hours is enough time to explore the center, but you can hang around for longer if your schedule is not too tight.

12:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Explore the Pointe-a-Calliere Museum of Archaeology and History

The Point-a-Calliere is quite simply the birthplace of Montreal.

Here, you will learn about the history of the town with information worth several centuries. You will have the opportunity to explore the town through both temporary and permanent exhibitions.

@travelspock 5 Things to Do In Montreal to Spice Up Your Holiday #montreal ♬ original sound – Travelspock – Travelspock

The tour starts uniquely with a projected high-speed view of the town’s history. There are also fun activities in the museum that the whole family can take part in.

2:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Have Fun at The La Ronde Amusement Park

One of the largest amusement parks in Canada, La Ronde is a hub for games and entertainment.

It is the perfect way to end the day after absorbing so much knowledge about Montreal.

The park, which is located at Parc Jean-Drapeau near Downtown Montreal, boasts over 40 rides. If you are a white-knuckle fan, you will undoubtedly enjoy the ‘manitou.’

While the thrill rides will give you the chills, you can be sure to be giggling the whole way!

Singles/ Couples without Children Option

If you are looking to have a good time and create some memories either by yourself or with your significant other, then today is the day!

9:00 am – 11:00 am: Visit Old Montreal

Taking a walk along the streets of the historic neighborhood of Old Montreal is a great way to start the day.

Dating back to the 1600s, Old Montreal acts as a bridge between the past and the present. You can be sure to experience the best of both periods.

The oldest street in Montreal – Saint-Paul Street – is found here. It runs parallel to the old port waterfront.

There are also cafes, lively plazas, and about 15 boutiques to shop from as you stroll around. You can be sure to catch sights of the city hall and the Bonsecours market.

11:00 am – 1:00 pm: Tour the Notre-Dame Basilica

Notre Dame Basilica receives up to 11 million visitors annually, undoubtedly for its exquisite beauty and unique architecture.

The cathedral’s interior is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, sure to mesmerize you.

Its color-stained windows give it a rustic touch, which is complemented by the intricate wood carvings therein.

The self-guided tour will give you the time to absorb everything. If you still have some time, you can stay for AURA, a sound and light show experience.

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Take a Stroll at the Old Port of Montreal

The Old Port of Montreal, or the Vieux-port as it is also referred to, will provide you with a balance between ancient and modern leisure.

It stretches for over 1.2 miles with more than 50 activities to take part in.

You can stroll, cycle along the biking trails, rent a paddleboat, do some rollerblading, and catch a bite in one of the cafes and restaurants available.

If it is sunny enough, you can take a leisurely walk along the St. Lawrence River.

3:00 pm to 5:00 pm: Relax at the Clock Tower Beach

What better way to end the day than to kick back at a city beach watching the sunset with your partner? Clock Tower Beach is just the perfect place.

It is located at the base of the Clock Tower, which is a walking distance from Downtown Montreal. It comes with bright blue lounge chairs and soft sand to sink your bare feet in.

While swimming is not allowed, there are mist stations to cool you down if it is too hot.

The beach provides a perfect view of the St. Lawrence River, Old Montreal, and the Jacques-Cartier Bridge. You can relax here up to 7 pm or 9 pm, depending on the day of the week.

Day 2 in Montreal

The second day of exploring Montreal promises a plethora of activities, adventures, splendid views, and nature appreciation.

Family option

This day is bound to be memorable for the whole family. Pack up some lunch, dress warmly, and buckle up for an adventure!

9:00 am – 1:00 pm: Visit the Montreal Botanical Garden

Nature and fresh air are a perfect combination to start the day, and the Montreal Botanical Garden is rich in those.

The garden is extensive, with 75 acres of thematic outdoor gardens and up to 10 greenhouses.

Part of the Montreal Space for Life, the garden houses 22,000 plant species.

You will be allowed access to the greenhouses and learn about the different plants. The garden is a very educational avenue for both adults and children.

1:00 pm to 3:00 pm: Tour Biodome de Montreal

The Montreal biodome will enable you and your young ones to walk through replicas of ecosystems in America.

The dome boasts all five of America’s ecosystems under one roof.

You will experience the tropical rainforest, see the Gulf of St. Lawrence, watch the lynx in the Laurentian Maple Forest, and marvel at the penguins in the sub-polar regions.

The Biodome is a must-see destination that will offer you an experience like no other.

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3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Have fun at Place Des Arts Junior Theatre

Located at Catherine Street in West Montreal, the Place Des Arts Junior Theater is the perfect place to spend the evening with the family.

The place offers a balanced combination of fun and discovery for the whole family.

You will enjoy a plethora of children’s shows which include plays. There are also lobby areas where you can relax as you down a cold soft drink.

Montreal is the perfect destination for solo travelers and couples. On day two, ensure you take advantage of the adventures and attraction sites in the town.

9:00 am – 1:00 pm: Hike Mont-Royal

Start the day energetically by hiking the gorgeous Mont-Royal. The 5.2 miles loop is perfect for solo nature trails and is bound to put you in a reflective mood.

The hike is pretty easy and will take you about two and a half hours to finish. Mont-Royal also allows for activities such as mountain biking, birding, and cross-country skiing.

From the peak, you will enjoy a scenic view of Montreal. The mountain is stunning during fall when the leaves are changing color.

1:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts/ MMFA

The MMFA is the biggest and oldest museum in Canada.

Founded in 1860 – The museum houses more than 45000 paintings, photographs, sculptures, and graphic arts. It is hellbent on showcasing both Canadian and international art from an intercultural perspective.

You will be guided through four interconnecting pavilions that have over 80 exhibition galleries to choose from.

The museum also has a movie theatre and auditorium if you are interested in art documentaries.      

5:00 Pm – 6:00 Pm: Hang Out at The Ice Bar

Finish the day with either a solo date or a romantic date at the ice bar. It is a magnificent hanging joint to kick back and have lazy conversations.

The bar has a winter-themed cocktail menu. If you are a vodka person, the bar has got your back too. The ambiance is beautiful, with incredible lighting, candles, and fur.

Day 3 in Quebec City

Quebec City is only a three-hour drive from Montreal. It is rich in French-Canadian culture.

Here, you will enjoy different cuisines, nature, and fun-filled moments with your family, partner, or just yourself.

The day will be filled with outdoor activities that will be fun, educative, and relaxing for the family. So, buckle up and expect great adventures!

9:00 am to 12:00 pm: Visit the Aquarium Du Quebec

If you want to start the day doing something unique with the family, then the Aquarium du Quebec is the perfect place to start.

The aquarium houses more than 1000 animals from about 300 species.

There are mammals, amphibians, exotic fish, and reptiles in the establishment.

You can also be sure to spot polar bears, seals, and walruses in the outdoor park.

A 350,000-litre tank holds different animals from the Pacific Ocean.

During Summer – The whole family can take part in water games. After walking around the aquarium, you can relax and enjoy exhibit shows, which are done in both English and French.

12:00 pm – 3:00 pm:  Have fun at RecreOFUN

RecreOFUN is a play center with an indoor playground to provide family entertainment at its best.

There are many activities that the family can take part in, including the BalleOFUN, the giant multi-level maze, and bungee trampolines.

The center is a clean, fun, and secure environment for small kids to explore and develop motor skills.

There is a snack bar for when you get hungry and gift cards to take home.

3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Go to the Erico- creative Chocolate shop and Chocolate Museum

Chocolates are universally loved.

Spend the evening at the Erico- chocolate shop and museum, and learn everything there is to know about chocolate, starting from its history.

There are two videos, one in English, and another in French, which show the chocolate-making process from the cocoa seed stage to the complete chocolate bars.

You can watch the live action through the transparent windows as the chocolatiers make chocolates.

The tour is self-guided, and you will have access to more than 200 artifacts about chocolate history.

Different chocolates are also laid out for you to sample. Additionally, you can enjoy chocolate pastries such as cookies, brownies, and cupcakes.

Couples/ Singles Without Kids Option

Quebec City has many activities for couples, solo travelers, and friend groups.

You are looking at a day full of adventure, learning new things, and beautiful spots for photos.

9:00 am – 12:00 pm: Go Ziplining at Parc De La Chute – Montmorency

Start the day on a high note with an adrenaline-filled activity. Ziplining at Parc De La Chute will give you the ultimate experience.

Enjoy a leisurely ride in a cable car and take in a spectacular view of the 272-foot-high waterfall into the St. Lawrence River.

Also, pass by the manoir and learn about the history of the place. Choose the panoramic circuit to enjoy the ride fully.

Purchase the entrance and cable car ticket in advance to avoid delays on the day of your adventure.

12:00 pm – 3:00 pm:  View Art

The Musee National des beaux-arts du Quebec is an art museum located in Battlefield Park. The complex is made up of four buildings with varied art to view.

The magnificent collection of Quebec Art will enable you to experience architecture and nature in a refreshing way. The museum holds art history from the seventeenth Century to date.

3:00 pm- 5:00 pm:  Shop at the Quartier Petit Champlain

What is a vacation without shopping?

It is incomplete. Spend the afternoon shopping away at the hottest shopping spot in Quebec City, the Quartier Petit Champlain.

Located in downtown Quebec City, this center is the oldest commercial street in North America.

It boasts more than 47 shops with jewelry, art galleries, fashion and accessories, souvenirs, and gifts. There are also restaurants where you can have amazing food during shopping breaks.

The street provides excellent selfie opportunities and photos for the Gram.

5:00 pm: Lay back at the Quebec City Ferry

Quebec City ferry is one of the city’s best-kept secrets.

It is very easy to miss if you don’t know about it. Located at the heart of Old Quebec City, the ferry is one of the best ways to view the Old Town.

It is the perfect way to end the adventurous day you have just had.

During Winter – The ferry acts as a literal icebreaker, paving the way for other ships. The sound of ice breaking under the ferry is musical to the ears.

The ride is twelve minutes long and one-way. You can take a lazy stroll back to the town via the red stairs.

Day 4: Quebec City

On your last day, make the most out of it by engaging in fantastic activities. Activate your adventurous spirit and saddle up for an amazing day!

Have a memorable final day in Quebec City by participating in the amazing adventures the city offers. Remember to capture every beautiful moment to keep the memories alive.

10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Have fun at the Mega Parc Ephemere

The Mega Parc Ephemere is the ultimate indoor entertainment for the whole family.

The arena has 18 rides which include bumper cars, an ice rink, a roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, and arcades.

You would be delighted to learn that they charge less for adults who are accompanying kids for the rides.

Buying tickets online in advance is advisable to skip the long lines in the mall. In case you get hungry, there is a food court where you can grab a bite as you have fun.

12:00 pm – 3:00 pm:  Visit the Village Vacances Valcartier Park

This park is the perfect place to spend the last day of your family vacation.

It usually holds events such as concerts, sports, and even on-site entertainment.

The outdoor waterpark dazzles visitors of all ages. It has 35 slides, two theme rivers, 100 water games, and a big wave pool.

3:00 pm to 5:00 pm: Go to Plains of Abraham

Plains of Abraham is a park that is central to Quebec City.

Alternatively, you can walk around and enjoy nature as the park has lots of green space.

You can even set up a picnic and bond with the family. It is recommendable to book ahead of time so that you secure your family a spot.

Couples/ Singles without Kids Option

Take advantage of the fantastic sceneries and cuisines that the city has to offer on your last day of vacation.

There is something for solo travelers and couples alike!

9:00 am – 12:00 pm:  Visit the Jacques- Cartier National Park

While the park is quite steep, the drop-dead gorgeous views at the top are totally worth it. Furthermore, you can take any of the many trails as per your liking.

This park is the perfect place for a romantic walk and to make memories with your significant other. It also forms the perfect background for artistic photos.

There is a visitor center where you can make inquiries and receive different services. While there, you can also rent kayaks and have even more fun.

12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Have lunch at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

This urban resort is quite the attraction site.

It has breathtaking contemporary décor with a touch of historical cachet. What is more, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Having a meal here will be one of the most luxurious experiences you will experience in the city.

The elegance is out of this world. In addition, you will catch spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River & architecture of the Old fortified city as you eat.

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm:  Visit the Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral

A vacation in Quebec City is not complete without visiting the most extensively expanded structure in the history of Canada.

The Notre Dame de Quebec Basilica is the first church in the city to be built with stone.

It exudes grandeur and provides an ambiance like no other place.

When it is not crowded, you can sit and enjoy the tranquility. There are also paintings, etchings, archives, and sacred vessels to explore.

3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Old Quebec City Food & Drinks Tour

At the end of the day, you will probably be starving from all the activities.

There is no better way to end your vacation than taking a food and drinks tour and trying out different foods at Old Quebec City.

The 1.1 miles walk involves five food stops and eight different foods to sample. Drinks are also available.

The cuisines range from traditional to modern, as per your choice.

The food spots include:

• Chez Paillard
• Chez Boulay Comptoir Boreal
• BEClub Bistro
• Maison Livernois
• and La Buche

Drinks available in the location are wine, local gin, and craft mocktails.

You will also be able to take in sites such as the Chateau Frontenac and the legendary city hall as you walk and eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

To ensure you are well prepared, we have included some information that might further assist you during your trip.

Where to Stay when visiting Montreal and Quebec City?

There are many accommodation options in both Montreal and Quebec City. You can opt to book an Airbnb or stay in a hotel.

There are hotels befitting everyone’s budget.

The following is a list of luxurious hotels and the more affordable ones in both locations.

In Montreal

For Luxury accommodations, some of the top-rated hotels include:

• Hotel William grey
• Ritz-Carlton , Montreal
• Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Hotel Nelligan

For more budget-friendly options, there are many options, such as:

• Intercontinental Montreal
• Boutique Notre-Dame
• Hilton Garden Inn Montreal Centre-Ville

In Quebec City

Luxury Accommodations

• Hotel Chateau Laurier Quabec
• Le Bonne Entente
• Le Capitole Hotel
• Hotel Le Germain Quebec

Budget-Friendly Options

• Delta Mariott Quebec City
• Hotel Marie Rollet
• Hotel le Priori
• Hotel Manoir D’Auteuil

How To Get Around Montreal and Quebec City?

If you want to move around conveniently, you can rent a car at the Trudeau International Airport (YUL) in Montreal.

You can also opt to walk from one place to another, as Montreal is a pretty walkable city.

If your feet grow weary, take the Montreal Metro or public bus. In Quebec City, use the metro and bus systems to get around if you don’t have a car.

What’s The Best Month to Visit Montreal and Quebec City?

The best months to visit Montreal is April during spring and October during the fall season. Summer is usually too crowded, and the temperatures too hot. The best time to go to Quebec City depends on the kind of experience you are looking for.

Nevertheless, you should consider visiting between June and August if you want to party with the crowds during summer festivals and experience the winter wonderland.

Final Thoughts

Montreal and Quebec City are perfect vacation destinations as they offer a fusion of outdoor beauty, art, educational and entertainment centers, chefs, and rich culture.

Both cities provide a unique combination of old and new, as well as various historical landmarks. This Montreal and Quebec City 4-day itinerary will guide you to experience the best of both places.

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Perfect 7 Days In Montreal And Quebec City Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux

Planning a trip to Montreal, Canada? If you’re thinking of staying in Montreal for one week , you’re going to love our recommended 7 days itinerary. Let’s see how you can visit Montreal in 7 days and more importantly, make the most of it.

Day 1 – Old Montreal

To start off your trip to Montreal, it’s off to Old Montreal, the city’s historic district. One of the best ways to explore the district and learn all about the city’s beginnings is to take a walking tour of the Old Town. Various walking tours are offered , all with the benefit of a knowledgeable guide to give you the most educational and unique experience of the area. 

After a walk around the Old Town, it’s time for lunch nearby at Taverne Gaspar . Located on rue de la Commune inside a 19th Century warehouse, Taverne Gaspar offers French-inspired pub food with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. If you’re desperate to try out the famous Quebecois dish, poutine, during your stay in Montreal, you’ll want to head over to Montreal Poutine on rue Saint-Paul.

Also located in Old Montreal, Montreal Poutine specializes in the famous dish, complete with cheese curds and gravy, as well as providing many variations to suit everyone. Alongside poutine, this restaurant also offers a range of classic burgers and hot dogs.

For your afternoon activity, it’s time to head to the Pointe-à-Callière Museum of Archaeology and History to learn even more about Montreal’s origins and foundations. Not only a fantastic resource for learning about Montreal’s history but the museum is also built on the very spot where the city was founded, making it a very significant historical site.

Alternatively, if the morning tour of Old Montreal was enough for you, the Bota Bota spa is located nearby at the Old Port, offering a variety of packages alongside the gorgeous views of the district. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups, the spa boasts a range of facilities, including saunas, steam rooms, hot and cold pools, relaxation rooms, and a variety of soothing treatments. 

For dinner in Old Montreal, head over to Saint-Paul Street, where you’ll find Modavie . Modavie is a jazz bar and bistro specializing in French and European cuisine and, while you’re there, you’re likely to experience the sounds of a local Montreal band. The restaurant’s specialty is lamb, though imaginative vegetarian options are available.

For an evening out in Old Montreal, head to the Coldroom on rue Saint Vincent to experience a prohibition-style speakeasy, perfectly fit for this historic district. Hidden behind a black door, the Coldroom can be easily missed by those not looking for it (follow the duck!).

As a reward for your detective skills, the Coldroom offers excellent gourmet cocktails and an atmosphere to make your legal drinks feel that little bit prohibited. 

Day 2 – City Centre and Plateau Mont-Royal

To start off your second day in Montreal, we’re heading off to Mount Royal , the famous mountain overlooking Downtown Montreal. If traveling to Montreal during the winter, ice skating on Beaver Lake should be an activity at the top of your list. Located at the top of the mountain, Beaver Lake is Mount Royal’s outdoor refrigerated skating rink, with free access and skate rental available from $10 per 2 hours.

If visiting Mount Royal with children, activities such as snow tubing down the hill overlooking Beaver Lake, and is suitable for children aged 4 and up. Daily passes and equipment for this activity are available at the equipment rental counter.

If your trip to Mount Royal is during the summer, Beaver Lake is still a top attraction. Not only is the surrounding park the perfect spot for a picnic or morning read, but rowboats can also be rented for use on the lake at $12 per half hour. For anyone who would rather not get in the water, remote-controlled sailboats are also available for use on Beaver Lake for $10 per half hour, perfect for kids and adults alike. 

For lunch on the mountain, you have the option of several restaurants and cafes offering soups, sandwiches, and snacks: Mont-Royal Chalet, the Pavillion du Lac-aux-Castors (adjacent to Beaver Lake), and Maison Smith. Alternatively, head into Plateau Mont-Royal for lunch or brunch at Restaurant L’Avenue .

Offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options over a creatively-designed backdrop, Restaurant L’Avenue is the perfect example of dining in the artsy Plateau neighborhood. If poutine is still on your mind, however, take a seat nearby at La Banquise or PoutineVille , both of which are among the best restaurants to try the classic dish.

After lunch, head downtown to Sherbrooke Street to visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts , the largest art museum in Canada by exhibition space. Alongside collections featuring Picasso, Rembrandt, and Goyam the museum often showcases special exhibitions.

For dinner in Downtown Montreal, head over to Robert-Bourassa Boulevard and take a seat at Restaurant Zibo . Offering Californian-inspired Canadian cuisine, Zibo caters to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets with its extensive menu. Zibo also boasts an impressive beer, wine, and cocktail menu to complement your meal.

To round off your second day in Montreal, take a walk down to 3 Brasseurs microbrewery on Saint-Catherine Street. Alongside beer brewed in-house, 3 Brasseurs offers wine and cocktails, as well as a food menu that pairs beers with certain dishes and their flavors. If visiting in the summer, this location in Downtown Montreal also boasts outdoor seating so that you can enjoy a finely-crafted beer in the summer air.

Day 3 – Mont Tremblant

For the third day of your trip to Montreal, take a trip to Mont Tremblant, one of Canada’s most famous ski resorts located in the Laurentian Mountains. There are various options for getting to Tremblant from Montreal , with the most convenient option likely being to drive. And no worries if you’re not visiting during the winter, as the resort has activities available all year round.

It’s always best to leave early in the morning so that you can enjoy a full day at Tremblant. To ease yourself in after a long trip, regardless of the season, round off your morning with a short hike on the mountain. Take the gondola up to the top of the mountain, and make your way along with one of the many hiking trails that Tremblant has to offer. 

While at the mountain’s peak, stop off for lunch at le Grand Manitou , a cafeteria offering a spectacular view of the vicinity. Serving hot and cold food, this is the place to regain your energy for the main activity of the day.

After lunch, if you’re visiting in the winter, it’s finally time to try your hand at skiing. Mont Tremblant has a whole host of trails, from beginner to expert, so whether you’re a seasoned skier or it’s your first time, Tremblant’s got you covered. If you’re visiting the resort in the summer, try your hand at some rock climbing .

With no climbing experience necessary, you will be able to climb the cliff several times with the assistance of an experienced guide.

For dinner, head into the pedestrian village and take a seat at the Choux Gras Brasserie Culinaire for some French-Canadian cuisine. With vegetarian and gluten-free options, Choux Gras Brasserie Culinaire’s warm contemporary atmosphere overlooking the pedestrian village will make for a lovely evening meal. 

After dinner, head to the Casino de Mont-Tremblant , a small casino and bar featuring live music and an outdoor patio. Whether you’re looking for a drink at the bar or want to try your luck at the slot machines (or both!), this is the perfect place to finish off your day in Tremblant. And if you’d prefer to save the trip back for the next morning, there are plenty of lodging options and hotels available in the pedestrian village .

Day 4 – Quartier des Spectacles and Chinatown

For our fourth day in Montreal, we’re going to be checking out the Quartier des Spectacles (the Entertainment District) and Chinatown. For your morning activity, head into the Quarter and make your way to Saint-Catherine Street to find the Montreal Contemporary Art Museum (Musée d’Art Contemporain de Montréal), Canada’s first museum devoted entirely to contemporary art. Inside, you will find contemporary collections of over 7,000 works of art featuring Quebecois, Canadian, and international artists.

Unique exhibitions are constantly running , currently featuring the work of artists such as Arthur Jafa, Ron Moppett, and Kathleen Graham. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $4 for teenagers, and free for children under 12.

After a morning of cultural exploration, take a (very!) short walk to Eggspectation Complexe Desjardins on Saint Catherine West for some lunch or brunch. As the name suggests, Eggspectation specializes in eggs and breakfast food, but there truly is something for everyone. With imaginative variations on classic breakfast and brunch food, as well as non-breakfast food, you won’t be disappointed.

In the afternoon, head over to Chinatown, a small district within the Quartier des Spectacles, for a little exploration. One of the oldest Asian communities in North America, Montreal’s Chinatown started to emerge around the 1890s and was first recognized as a tourist attraction in the late 1960s.

The main attractions of Chinatown include its many shops and food vendors (try the bubble tea!). Make a stop at one of the many souvenir shops, or venture inside one of the Asian grocery stores for some authentic products. And be sure to make a stop at the corner of René-Lévesque and Saint-Laurent by the north gate to see a gorgeous mural produced by MU, one of the many examples of Montreal’s street art scene.

While in Chinatown, head to Ruby Rouge for some authentic Chinese cuisine. Their key dish is dim sum, which is continuously being wheeled around for customers to pick from, alongside a variation of Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine. And if you’re looking for a fun evening activity in Chinatown, look no further than CEO Karaoke, which is conveniently situated in the basement of Ruby Rouge. 

If karaoke isn’t your thing, head back into the main part of the Quartier and you’ll find the Theatre Sainte-Catherine Cafe-Bar . This unique bar is also an independent theatre, hosting musical performances, film screenings, and comedy all throughout the week. What better way to enjoy a drink within Montreal’s renowned Entertainment District than with some independent theatre?

Day 5 – The Village and Quartier Latin

With the university nearby, Montreal’s Quartier Latin is known to be a student-friendly district within the city, bustling with art, indie cinemas and theatres, and a vibrant nightlife. As such, Quartier Latin is highly focused on education and history, making this neighborhood the perfect spot for those that are beyond their university years but still love to learn. In the morning, head into the Quartier Latin and make your way to la Galerie de l’UQAM , an art museum located within the University of Quebec in Montreal.

As the gallery is primarily focused on student enrichment, many of the works on display are by students of visual arts, art history, and museology, making this gallery a highly unique and contemporary way to experience art created in the heart of Montreal.

For lunch in the Quartier Latin, head to Resto Végo , a vegetarian and vegan buffet located on Saint-Denis Street. Alongside an extensive buffet selection to suit anyone, Testo Vego also has a gourmet counter, stocked with prepared sandwiches, pizzas, and salads for those looking for something a little different from the buffet range.

Alternatively, if you’re hankering for something sweet, head over to Juliette et Chocolat , a French dessert cafe also located on Saint-Denis Street. Offering a plethora of desserts and hot chocolates, Juliette et Chocolat also has savory meals and brunches to suit everyone.

To really understand Montreal as an all-inclusive cosmopolitan city, visitors need to take a trip to the Village, which is where we’re headed for the afternoon. Located near the Quartier des Spectacles, Montreal’s Gay Village is the largest in North America, receiving consistent investment and promotion by all three levels of government as the heart of Montreal’s LGBT community.

It is often recommended to treat the Gay Village as an open-air museum, due to the large number of public art installations, including an outdoor gallery (Galerie blanc) and the mural by Cecile Gariepy. Unfortunately, the iconic large-scale installation comprising 180,000 hanging rainbow-colored balls has recently been taken down, but will soon be replaced with another fantastic installation. Keep an eye out!

For dinner, head to Grenade on Ontario Street East for some contemporary Asian food within a beautifully designed Asian-inspired interior. Grenade also features a cocktail bar, with a menu that’s jam-packed full of Asian-inspired and imported drinks. If visiting in the summer, the restaurant’s rear terrace is opened up for you to enjoy the balmy air.

To round off your evening in Montreal’s Gay Village, a visit to Cabaret Mado is essential. A testament to Montreal’s vibrant drag scene, Mado is a great spot to catch a glamorous show (and maybe even see some famous faces) while enjoying a good drink. There is always a show on, interspersed with special events, so check out the website for upcoming shows ! 

Day 6 – Quebec City

For your sixth day in Canada, it’s time for another day trip! One of the most popular day trips from Montreal is Quebec City, the capital of the province of Quebec. At around 3 hours’ drive from Montreal, it is recommended to rent a car for this trip, though a direct train is also available with similar travel time. 

Start off your visit to Quebec City with a stroll down Old Quebec (Vieux-Quebec), a World Heritage Site and the location of New France’s first permanent settlement.

Make sure that Place Royal, the city walls, and Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral are stops on your exploration of this historic city. If you have enough time, be sure to take up one of the many tours of the city and take advantage of Quebec’s highly-qualified and knowledgeable guides.

After a wander around Old Quebec, head down Petit-Champlain (and be sure to marvel at the beauty of this pedestrian street!), where you’ll enjoy a bite to eat at Le Lapin Saute . With a terrace opening up in the summer, and a fire to warm you in the winter, this is a great place to settle down for lunch regardless of when you’re visiting. 

After lunch, head to the Musée de la civilization , located between Old Quebec and the Old Port, where you can learn all about early Quebec and the First Nations people.

The museum features a whole host of natural specimens, historical artifacts, and documents of Old Quebec. Alongside permanent collections, the museum holds temporary exhibition s such as ‘Quebec City’s Firefighters: 250 Years of Courage’, which will run until March 29th, 2020. Many of the exhibitions and collections are interactive, making them all the more engaging for both adults and kids. Adult admission tickets start at $11, and children under 11 enter for free.

For dinner, take a short walk to Saint-Paul Street, where you’ll find Chez Rioux & Pettigrew . Serving French-Canadian cuisine, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, Rioux & Pettigrew aims to please with their gourmet styling and cozy industrial backdrop. 

Alternatively, for those wanting to experience a very unique experience of fine dining, be sure to make a booking at Restaurant Taniere ahead of your trip.

Rated to be the best restaurant in Quebec city, Taniere offers a contemporary gastronomy experience set in a series of underground 17th Century vaults. The food is locally sourced and expertly prepared over several courses, between 15 and 20, with options for a beverage pairing experience. Well worth the price, this is an unmissable place in Quebec for foodies.

If you’ve still got some steam come the evening, head to Le Sacrilège on Saint-Jean Street, a friendly bar featuring art exhibitions and live music. A favorite of locals, this is the bar to go to if you want to get a real taste of Quebec City’s charming nightlife. 

You can decide to stay the night in Quebec city too or drive all the way back to Montreal.

Day 7 – Rosemont

In the morning, we’re heading to Rosemont for a trip to Montreal’s Botanical Gardens (Jardin Botanique), which is a part of the Montreal Space for Life science complex. To get the most out of your experience at the Botanical Gardens, guided tours of the exhibition greenhouses are offered free with your admission ticket. Alongside an impressive collection of plant species and exhibition greenhouses, the Garden is also home to various thematic cultural gardens.

The Japanese Garden features a spectacular arrangement of bonsai trees, ranging from 20 to 100 years old, all within a specially-arranged serene environment. The Chinese Garden was created with materials shipped from Shanghai and built by 50 Chinese craftsmen. The result was a living exhibition of the Chinese art of landscape design, creating a sense of harmony using the four major elements: plants, water, stones, and architecture.

Finally, the First Nations Garden is designed to evoke the close bonds between the natives and the natural world, serving to promote the sharing of knowledge and culture between native and non-native Quebeckers.

For lunch, head to Little Italy, a small neighborhood north of Mile End that was heavily influenced by a wave of Italian immigration in the early 20th Century. Corneli is an Italian restaurant located on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, serving meat, fish, pasta, and pizza authentically cooked in their wood oven. 

While in Little Italy, head on over to the Jean-Talon Market for the afternoon. Jean-Talon is Little Italy’s famous food market and is one of the oldest public markets in Montreal, dating back to 1933. The market provides a unique produce shopping experience, even for those not looking to buy.

Nearby are various cafes, such as the Cafe Saint-Henri , which serves fantastic coffee and sweet snacks. Alternatively, Rosemont is also home to Montreal’s Olympic Village , which is a perfect visit for sport-lovers. While a perfect trip can be made out of a simple walk around the village, various tours and events are made available by the Olympic Park.

Open most of the year, the Montreal Tower Observatory is open to visitors, offering a panoramic view of the city from the world’s tallest inclined tower. Guided tours for the Tower are also available, as well as the Since 1976 exhibition that showcases the history of the park. Alongside this, the Stadium is also open, with regular guided tours and a seasonal events schedule . 

For dinner, head to rue Beaubien Est for a seat at Il Bazzali , a quaint Italian restaurant serving European and Mediterranean cuisines. If you’re lucky, you might even get to experience the famous “singing chef”. The restaurant is a BYOB but, luckily, there are plenty of wines to choose from le Marche des Saveurs du Quebec (the Quebec Flavor Market) in Jean-Talon Market.

To round off your trip in Montreal, head to La Succursale on rue Masson. La Succursale specializes in craft beers and ciders, within a friendly contemporary interior. If visiting during the summer, La Succursale also features an outdoor terrace, perfect for sipping on your drink during the warm evenings.

Final Thoughts On Montreal In One Week

We hope our guide helped you find new ideas for your week in Montreal.

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