travel itinerary quebec

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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One Week in Quebec: Ultimate 6-7-8 Day Itinerary

Table of Contents

1 week in Quebec: what to do in 6, 7 or 8 days?

You decided to  visit Canada  and chose to focus on  the Quebec region?  In order to help you plan your stay, we have prepared  a one-week Quebec itinerary that will allow you to see the best of the province’s must-sees in no time.

You will find throughout the article,  our itinerary day by day, with great tips , as well as a  selection of the best accommodations for each day.

And as Quebec is very different depending on the season, the program is offered  in summer and winter!

So, let’s start our 1 week Montreal and   Quebec city itinerary !

In 1 week, we will take you to discover  Montreal ,  Quebec and  Mauricie National Park.

Day 1-3: Montreal

We begin this  week-long Quebec itinerary  with the discovery of  Montreal, the largest city in the province.

After landing, the best option to reach the city center is to take the bus. You will not need to rent a car for this first stage,  Montreal  is very well-located by foot and metro or bus.

To reach the city center , you will have to board the  bus #747. It operates 24/7 and takes between 45 and 70 minutes to reach the Berri-Uqam metro station. You can then take the metro to your accommodation for the night.

After these some practical information, you are ready for the visit of Montreal.

I suggest you start the day with the  discovery of Montreal’s historic district, Old Montreal.  For this you have to take the orange line of the metro and get off at Place d’Armes.

In the neighborhood , it is important not to miss (in order of visit):

• The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal  whose interior is beautiful. Admission is fee (around $ 6) and includes a guided tour of the building.
• The New York life building,  the first skyscraper built in Montreal
• Courts of Justice
• The Bonsecours market.  Do not expect to find stalls of fruits and vegetables, the market is actually a collection of art galleries and luxury shops.
• The quai de l’horloge  and its view of the Jacques Cartier Bridge
• Place Jacques-Cartier

You can then take a nice  walk to the Old Port of Montreal , along the St. Lawrence River.  In summer  it is the ideal place to  walk by bike or rollerblading .  In winter,  there is  an ice rink  and an  ice fishing  activity  .

If you follow this program, during the lunch break, you can  eat in one of the restaurants offering the best value  (or the best) of Montreal.

Pointe-à-Callières Museum’s “L’arrivage”  restaurant is located at the end of the Old Port promenade in front of the Alexandra wharf. It offers a  gourmet menu , changing weekly,  for less than $ 25   (starter + main course + dessert)! The dishes are extremely well prepared and very good.

And to top it off, it offers a  breathtaking view of the entire Old Port . Only open for lunch and reservation.

In the afternoon, head for Montreal’s other main attraction,  Mount Royal Park.

For this, take the metro place de armes direction Montmorency to the Mont-Royal station. Then take the bus n ° 11 to the remembrance stop / chalet of Mont-Royal.

Mount Royal Park is  the largest park in Montreal.  My first recommendation is to go to the  Belvedere du Mont-Royal  to admire a panorama of the whole city. This is the photo that every good tourist must bring back from Montreal!

In summer , the park is particularly busy. The  Beaver Lake area  is  the perfect place for a picnic  and a relaxing afternoon. You will be able to  walk in the cool on the numerous paths  which offer beautiful points of view on the city. You will also have the chance to see squirrels.

If you visit  Mount Royal Park in winter , you can spend the afternoon trying out  many winter activities such as  tobogganing, ice skating  on Beaver Lake,  snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

After your visit of the park, I advise you to go down to  the Plateau Mont Royal  (always with the bus n ° 11 or on foot), a very lively district of the city. You can admire  the typical houses with spiral staircases  and colorful facades. You will also find many cafes and restaurants.

To end the day, I recommend  dinner at the Banquise , a restaurant located in the plateau and offers an infinity of varieties of traditional Quebec dish,  poutine!  A must when you visit Quebec.

The next day, for this  second day in Montreal , I propose you to go to  the Olympic stadium  (green metro line, exit Viau). You can take the glass funicular that will take you to the  summit of the highest inclined tower in the world   ! From above, the view of the entire Montreal area is breathtaking.

For the rest of the program,  visit the Biodôme de Montréal.  It is right next to the stadium.

The Biodôme, thanks to a very ingenious system of temperature and humidity control, recreates  the various ecosystems of the American continent . Universes like  the maple grove in the Laurentians  or  the Gulf of St. Lawrence  are really well done.

You can observe  many animals   : lynx, otters, beavers, penguins, and even caimans and piranhas.

For the afternoon, I advise you to discover  the botanical garden of Montreal.  It is in the same area as the stadium and the Biodôme.

With  twenty thematic gardens ,  10 greenhouses and 20,000 species of plants , it is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world. My favorite part of the garden is where the  Chinese pavilions are . To see also in the garden:  a huge insectarium  with more than 250 000 insects.

And to finish the day, why not  go do some shopping ? You find your happiness  along the rue Sainte Catherine , a very long commercial artery filled with shops and shopping centers. This is also where  the underground network of the city is located , very convenient for shopping in winter staying warm or enjoying the air conditioning in summer!

On this third and  last day in Montreal , go to  the Atwater Market  (Lionel-Groulx exit from the subway and not Atwater!). You can stock up on local products without forgetting maple syrup.

The market is on the edge of  the Lachine Canal,  a really nice place to walk. During my 3 years in Montreal, I lived next door and I do not count the number of times I walked there.  In summer,  you can go  cycling or kayaking.  In winter,  you can go  snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

I recommend buying  a picnic  at Atwater Market and lunch at the water’s edge.

Finally, for the afternoon, go to  Parc Jean-Drapeau.  The park is on  Île Sainte-Hélène  on the other side of the St. Lawrence River.

The metro will take you directly into the park (yellow line, Jean Drapeau exit). The park offers  beautiful views of Montreal  and  25 km of trails  for walking. You will probably be able to observe marmots little fierce! You will also find an original building,  the Biosphère, the  current environmental museum.

And for this last night in Montreal, you can go to  Chinatown  to try one of the restaurants. The dishes are really good and hearty. You will also find bakeries selling  Chinese pastries  and bubble tea. It was one of my favorite areas to  eat for cheap.

For all your travels , I advise you to use  the site of the STM . It calculates the fastest route in real time. The bus or metro stops and any problems on the lines are indicated, which is very convenient. Even if you are followers of Google map, for Montreal, this site is better done!

When you arrive at the airport and before taking the bus,  go to the STM  (Montreal Transportation Company)  store . They will know how to  buy the ticket  that best fits your stay in Montreal.

The tickets are valid for the metro and the bus. It is  more economical to buy it now  than to pay for the Airport – Downtown bus route, which alone costs $ 10 (the 3-day card costs $ 18). The shop is located at the Arrivals Hall.

Accommodation in Montreal

• M Montreal : Hostel located 5 minutes walk from Berri Uquam metro station on Sainte Catherine Street, a shopping street with many bars and restaurants. Bed in modern and comfortable dormitory from 16 € per night, breakfast included. Possibility also to sleep in a double room. The most: very welcoming staff; very modern infrastructure and room worthy of a hotel; Basement bar with shows some evenings.  Ideal for a small budget stay
• Anne my sister Anne Hotel Studio  : Located on Saint Denis Street in the heart of the very popular Plateau Mont Royal neighborhood. Room with basic furniture but bright and quiet from 72 € per night, breakfast included. Plus: its excellent location.
• Little Inn Les Bons Matins  : A charming inn located near the metro Lucien L’Allier. Warm and colorful room from 93 € per night, breakfast included. Plus: excellent and hearty homemade breakfast.  It’s our heart stroke for its benefit / price ratio!
• Lofts of the Old Port    : Located in the Old Port district. Large modern loft with fitted kitchen and exposed brick walls from € 180 a night. What we liked: the location, the space, the beautiful decor, the ability to make food, the super comfortable bed. There are also lofts with 2 rooms if you are with your family. It’s  a big blow  in terms of layout and location,  I highly recommend it.

Day 4-5: Quebec

The second leg of this  1-week Quebec itinerary takes  you to  Quebec City.

From Montreal , you can travel to  Quebec City by car  (3 hours drive) or  by bus  (3:15 drive for $ 25). To know that you will not need your car in Quebec, everything is very easy to visit on foot. However, it will be necessary for the next stage of the trip.

It’s up to you to see if you prefer to  rent the car directly to Montreal  and bring it back to the same place before departure to avoid fees or rent it in Quebec City and return it to Montreal (payment of additional fees).

Personally, I advocate the first option, it is simpler and you will also be more autonomous.

When you arrive in Quebec City , I advise you to start the tour with  the Dufferin Terrace Boardwalk . It offers a beautiful view of the emblematic building of the city,  the Chateau Frontenac  (the most photographed hotel in the world), and  the St. Lawrence River and the island of Orleans.

You can then  visit Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica,  whose remarkable architecture has earned it the status of a “National Historic Monument of Canada”.

Then,  take the funicular  to get to  the Petit-Champlain  district, the historic district. You can enjoy lunch at one of these many restaurants.

In the afternoon, stroll through the cobbled streets to discover the neighborhood. Do  a little shopping  in the many small craft shops and do not forget to go through  the Place Royale  and in front of  the fresco of Quebecers.

At the end of the day,  take the Lévis-Québec ferry  to admire  one of the most beautiful views of Quebec City  from the river. To do preferably  at sunset  to take the most beautiful pictures.

After a good night’s sleep, we start  the second day in Quebec City.

I recommend you first  visit the Citadel of Quebec  and then go  to the Plains of Abraham , a place famous for its view of the St. Lawrence River.

Then head out to the  Parliament Building  to learn more about the workings of the Canadian government.

Finally, to finish the morning, I advise you to  go to the observatory of the capital . At 221 meters high, you can enjoy a  360 ° panorama of Quebec City  and its region.

And for the program of the afternoon, nothing like going to see  the famous Montmorency Falls,  higher than those of Niagara! Whether in summer or winter when they are frozen,  the site is very impressive.  A place of interest not to be missed during this week-long circuit in Quebec.

If you only have  6 days in Quebec , I advise you to spend only one day in Quebec City. The best thing in this case is:

• Leave Montreal early (around 7 am to 7:30 am if possible) to enjoy the late morning in Quebec.
• Visit the city until 14h-14h30 while eating a sandwich for lunch
• You go to the Montmorency Falls to finish the afternoon

This is the best way to maximize your 6 days in the Belle Province!

If you are lucky and you have  8 days in Quebec , I recommend:

In summer,  go on a day trip to see the whales! They even pick you up directly at your hotel, so it’s really very convenient.

In the fall , (or if you have 9 days in Quebec) you can also take advantage of this extra day to  go to Tremblant Mountain to see the beautiful colors of Canadian autumn . Mont Tremblant is easily accessible from  Montreal  by bus or car. The trip lasts 1h30.

In winter , a great activity to do also from Montreal is  snow rafting  in St Jean de Matha. It’s really awesome! Just like for Mont Tremblant, there is approximately 1h30 of road.

Accommodation in Quebec

• Hotel Terrasse Dufferin   : Located 2 steps from the Château Frontenac. Double room decorated a little old but warm from 50 € per night, breakfast 3 €. Most: the excellent geographical location, the river view, the warm welcome.
• Hôtel Château Bellevue  : Located a 2-minute walk from the Dufferin Terrace. Double room with super comfortable bedding from 79 € per night, breakfast at 6 €. The most: the central location to visit on foot, the comfortable bed, the good breakfast, the reception staff.  It’s our heart stroke for its benefit / price ratio!
• Auberge Saint-Antoine   : Located on the banks of the St. Lawrence River in the Old Port district. Simple and elegant double room with underfloor heating in the bathroom from € 152 per night, breakfast € 17. We loved: all the comforts of a luxury hotel, the decoration of the hotel, the irreproachable service.  Exceptional, and the price is reasonable for a hotel of this quality.
• Château Frontenac   : Why not spend a night in the most photographed hotel in the world? A unique experience and the opportunity to enjoy all the services and comfort of a luxury hotel: spa, swimming pool, gourmet restaurants. A good way to have fun on your trip of 6, 7 or 8 days in Quebec,  it is not every day that we can sleep in the Chateau Frontenac!

Day 6-7: Mauricie National Park

After these 2 steps devoted to the discovery of the 2 main cities of Quebec, I propose you to finish your stay of a week in Quebec taking advantage of  the exceptional nature that offers Canada.

Because for me,  a Quebec itinerary , would not be complete without a passage through one of the many national parks of the province, I recommend you spend  2 days in the National Park of Mauricie.

In addition, it’s perfect because it is located right on the way back,  halfway between Quebec and Montreal . However, if you have not rented a car yet, now is the time to do it.

With more than 150 lakes, rivers and waterfalls , this is an opportunity to spend 2 days hiking in the Laurentians.

In summer,  you can practice  cycling, walking  and  fishing . It is also an opportunity to indulge in a must-do activity in Canada,  the canoe . I advise you to do  the trip to Waber Falls  in one day, 4km canoe + 4 km walk one way and the same thing on the way back. Plan a picnic.

In winter,  the park is the perfect place for  cross-country skiing on 80 km of marked  and marked trails. There are even rest stops heated every 5km. 8 tracks are also available for  snowshoe excursions.  You can even try the  graphineige , a giant drawing made in the snow with your rackets. Do not miss  the completely frozen Wapizagonke Falls .

And of course, you can indulge in two typical Canadian winter activities:  sled dogs  and  snowmobiles!

Accommodation in Mauricie

For  camping enthusiasts , the park offers  large tents arranged  both in winter (wood stove) and summer. Common premises are available to prepare meals and wash. You will find more information  on this site .

And for those who prefer  a little more comfort , here are the best accommodations near the park.

• Gîte aux Traditions  : Located in the main street of St-Jean des Piles, just 5km from the park. Double room from 60 € per night, breakfast included. Pros: location, lovely hosts, hearty and excellent homemade breakfast, tips for activities to do in the park.
• The cabins Nordik des Piles  : Located in St-Jean des Piles, in the middle of the forest. Wooden chalet from 85 €, breakfast included. Most: the location in the heart of nature, calm, welcoming guests.
• The cottage on the lake  : Located in Saint Mathieu du Parc, 10km from the national park. This large cottage is right on the edge of a lake. It can accommodate up to 7 people and is fully equipped. You can rent it for 2 people from 140 € and for 4 from 170 €. I recommend it especially if you are traveling with children or with a group of friends. Most: the view and location, comfort, terrace and barbecue, calm.  There is only one, so book it right away!
• Hôtel le Petit Manoir  : Located in Grandes Piles, a 10-minute drive from Parc de la Mauricie. Family Suite (for 4 people) comfortable and warm from € 180 per night, breakfast € 7. The most: the ideal location, the great reception, the excellent breakfast, the relaxing place, the view.  If you have the budget, go for it!

Do not hesitate to give your opinions and suggestions for our week-long Quebec itinerary!

Are you going to Canada? Read Also:

Check out all our articles about Canada : All articles about Canada are listed here!

• Itinerary: 2 days in Quebec:   All the steps to organize your 2-day stay in Quebec!
• What to do in Canada?  The 20 things to discover absolutely during your trip!
• Itinerary: A week in Canada:  All the steps to visit Canada in 1 week!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada:   All our advice for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada!
• What to do in Quebec?    My 15 favorite things to discover in the French-speaking province!
• Calgary: The Top 10 Things to Do When You Visit

Jennifer Bringardner

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3 Days in Montreal: Ultimate Montreal Itinerary of 3 Days

1 Month in Canada: Ultimate 4 Weeks Canada Itinerary

10 Days in Quebec: The Ultimate Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Recommended itinerary: how to visit quebec in 10 days.

You’re planning a 10-day itinerary in Quebec and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this recommended Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 days in Quebec

. During your trip, you will discover on Montreal , La Mauricie National Park , the Saguenay fjord , Charlevoix , and the city of Québec .

For this itinerary, in addition to the best things to do and must-see attractions , I will also give you all my best tips as well as my list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do during your 10 days in Quebec? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

Where to stay in Montreal

Staying at la mauricie national park, staying at the saguenay fjord, where to stay in charlevoix, where to stay in quebec city, 6) back to montreal (1 day), you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you, 1) montreal (2 days).

For your 9-10 day Québec adventure , I’d suggest landing in Montreal’s airport .

Upon arrival, there’s no pressing need to grab a rental car. Montreal is a breeze to explore on foot or by public transit.

But, since you’ll need a rental car for the next leg of your trip , you might opt to snag one right away to avoid backtracking to the airport. Or if that’s no fuss, pick it up bright and early on day three .

Do you want to save on two days’ rental fees, or save time later? Your call.

Regardless, you should consider booking your rental car via Rentalcars.com . It’s my go-to, be it for Canada , or European spots like Sicily , Greece , or Sardinia .

In just a click, you can compare all the deals Montréal’s car rentals have to offer. And by ticking the full coverage insurance option , you’re set with coverage for any mishaps or thefts .

If your travel dates are locked in, I’d suggest booking your wheels now to snag the best deals. Click the button below to compare car rental prices for your 9-10 days in Québec:

To get to downtown Montreal , if you’re holding off on the car rental, hop on bus #747 . It runs round-the-clock, taking you straight to the Berri-Uqam metro station and your hotel doorstep.

On your first day of your Quebec’s 9-10 day escapade, you’ll be unraveling the charms of Montréal .

Start your morning with a stroll through Old Montreal and the Old Port. The historic district boasts gems like Notre-Dame Basilica , the Bonsecours Market, the Clock Tower, and Jacques-Cartier Square .

Fancy a deeper dive? You can book a guided tour of Old Montreal right here !

Reaching the Old Port , you’ll meet the mighty Saint Lawrence River . Perfect for a riverside amble or even a delightful one-hour cruise . More on that? Just click here for the details !

Summer sees joggers and cyclists aplenty. And if you’re game, take a spin on the giant wheel or whizz down a zipline .

If you’re visiting Montreal in winter , brace for fun with ice-skating or even ice fishing .

For lunch, don’t skip the Pointe à Callières Museum’s restaurant by the Old Port. Overlooking Alexandra Quay, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view and a gourmet meal (appetizer + main + dessert) at just $25 . It was my fave when I lived in Montréal! Reservations are a must .

Post-lunch, set your compass to Montreal’s iconic Mont-Royal Park . Make your way up to the Belvedere for one of the city’s most breathtaking vistas . Explore the park’s winding paths and the serene Beaver Lake.

In winter , the frozen lake becomes a skating rink , complete with rentals. And, Mont-Royal’s snow-covered slopes? Perfect for sledding . A must on your 10-day Canadian tour , especially with kids in tow.

Another delightful sight? The adorable squirrels frolicking all around the park.

As the day winds down, meander through the Plateau Mont-Royal area with its many quirky shops , cafés, and restaurants . You’ll be captivated by the charm of its one-of-a-kind houses .

For dinner, it’s time to dig into the legendary poutine ! Head to Mont-Royal’s crowd-favorite, “ La Banquise ” boasting over 30 varieties of this Québécois specialty. The toughest part will be picking from all the cool choices.

Winding down, return to your hotel or head to one of Montreal’s numerous lively bars.

Day two of your 10-day Quebec getaway has you continuing your Montreal exploration .

Start your morning off right with a panoramic elevator ride up the Olympic Stadium tower . Trust me, the view from the top is breathtaking.

Just around the corner, you can pop into the Montreal Biodome , which replicates several ecosystems from the American continent . This isn’t your average zoo. It’s truly well-done! It features (among other cool creatures) lynxes, caimans, penguins, and puffins , all in meticulously recreated environments.

After that, I’d suggest wandering through the botanical gardens . The various themed gardens (think Japanese and Chinese) are beautifully showcased. It’s always open and even free during the winter . Perfect for cross-country ski and snowshoe enthusiasts.

To wrap up the day, hit up Montreal’s main shopping artery, Saint Catherine Street . H&M, Zara, Benetton – you’ll find all the big international brands here. Perfect for some retail therapy.

And if you’re window shopping in winter, no need to brave the cold. The city’s underground network stretches the entire length of the street , so you can stay cozy and comfy!

Stay a second night in Montreal. For even more to do and see in Montreal, check out my article: Exploring Montreal: Your Ultimate City Guide .

Voyage Tips - Advice For organizing your public transport commutes over these two days in Montreal, I recommend using the STM website (Montreal’s Transport Society).

• M Montreal : A youth hostel just a 5-minute walk away from Berri Uquam metro station on Sainte Catherine street. You can grab a bed in a modern, cozy dorm for just 25€ a night, breakfast included. You can also book a double room if you prefer. Strong points: Super friendly staff, modern facilities, basement bar with occasional live performances. A fantastic choice for budget-friendly accommodations in Montreal !
• Best Western Plus Hotel Montreal : Located in the bustling Quartier des Spectacles. You can book a warm, spacious double room starting from €150 per night. Strong points: Perfect location for exploring Montreal, clean and comfy beds.
• Le Dauphin Montréal Centre-Ville: : Just 200 meters away from the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal and a 5-minute walk from the Old Port. Double rooms starting from €170, breakfast included. Strong points: Great location, spacious rooms, and large beds.
• Le Petit Hotel Montreal: : Located in the historical center of Montreal. Rooms with character (think stone walls and exposed brick) starting from €250, breakfast included. Strong points: Excellent service, a delicious breakfast, and the charming ambiance of the hotel.
• Le St-Martin Hotel Centre-ville – Hotel Particulier: : Just 50 meters away from Saint Catherine West Street. Stylish, cozy double rooms starting from €290. Strong points: An enchanting pool with waterfalls and jets, delightful staff, prime location, and comfort. My recommendation for a high-end stay in Montreal !
• Hôtel Birks Montréal : Located in the city center, this 5-star hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms starting from €500, with breakfast at an additional €19. Strong points: Prime location, beautiful architecture, friendly staff, and a luxurious spa. The best hotel in Montreal for a luxury stay !

2) La Mauricie National Park (2 days).

For this leg, let’s kick off the road trip portion of your 10-day Quebec adventure.

Jump in your car (or pick it up from the airport) and head over to La Mauricie National Park for the next two days. From Montreal, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive .

During these two days in the park, you’ll have a plethora of activities at your fingertips. In summer, hike through stunning natural landscapes or kayak . Fishing enthusiasts will also be in their element.

The park’s most famous excursion combines the two. To reach Waber Falls , you’ll have to paddle a 8km round-trip by canoe and walk a 8km round-trip . Sure, it’s a bit of a workout, but entirely doable in a day.

When winter rolls around, dive into classic Quebec winter activities like snowmobiling , dog sledding , snowshoeing , or even cross-country skiing .

To make the most of your two days in the park tailored to your interests , don’t hesitate to check out the official website . There, you’ll find a list of activities and detailed hiking trails based on difficulty levels.

And remember, book two nights at one of the accommodations I’ve handpicked for you below.

For camping enthusiasts , the park offers large equipped tents both in winter (wood stove) and summer. Common areas are available for cooking and cleaning up. You’ll find more info right here .

And for those who prefer a bit more comfort , here are the best accommodations near the park.

• Trapper’s Inn Refuge : Located at the park’s entrance. Double room from €80. Strong points: location, warm welcome.
• Gîte aux Traditions : Located on the main street of St-Jean des Piles, just 5km from the park. Double room from €85 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: location, lovely hosts, hearty and delicious homemade breakfast, tips for activities in the park.
• Hotel Marineau Shawinigan : Located 15 km from the national park. Double room from €85, breakfast included. Strong points: cleanliness, comfy beds, good breakfast.
• Auberge motel drakkar : Located in Shawinigan. Spacious double room from €100 per night. Strong points: good breakfast, welcoming owner, quietness.

3) Fjord-du-Saguenay (2 days)

On to the third leg of this 9-10 day Quebec adventure ! Wave goodbye to La Mauricie National Park and set your sights on the Saguenay fjord in the aptly named town “Fjord-du-Saguenay”.

There are a few routes you could take , but I suggest taking the scenic Route 155 , which teases with a sneak peek of Lake St-Jean near the end.

Expect about a 4h15m journey , so it’ll eat up your morning. But hey, you’ll get to soak in some stunning vistas along the way .

When it comes to how you’ll spend your afternoon and the next day at Fjord-du-Saguenay, well, options abound.

Here’s a taste of what’s on offer:

• Explore the village of L’Anse St-Jean . This gem, perched on the fjord’s edge, boasts a killer view. It ranks among Quebec’s most charming villages.
• In the same vein, the village of Sainte-Rose du Nord is well worth a detour. With mountains all around and snugly tucked into a little valley, this spot is absolutely charming.
• Go hiking on one of the numerous trails. The famous Sentier de la Statue trail crowns you with a spectacular viewpoint at its summit.
• Embark on a boat cruise along the fjord.
• A kayak outing in search of belugas and whales. Fancy diving deeper into this? Click away right here !
• Go on a fishing excursion and give your luck a shot by trying to catch some brook trout.
• Ice fishing to catch your fish from a hole drilled in the ice
• Snowshoeing
• Cross-country skiing.

For a comprehensive guide to Fjord-du-Saguenay’s offerings, check out the official site .

• Auberge du dimanche : The establishment is located in the town of Rivière-Éternité, very close to the fjord. Nice and spacious double room starting from €70 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the setting and the tranquility, comfortable bedding, impeccable cleanliness. It’s my favorite for its value for money, I really recommend you stay 2 nights .
• Chalets sur le Fjord : Located in l’Anse Saint-Jean, ranked among the most beautiful villages in Quebec. Apartment or studio with kitchenette from €80 per night. Strong points: the magnificent setting with a view of the fjord, the comfortable and modern apartments, the hot tub.
• Lodge des Bois : Located in Saint-Félix-d’Otis, by the lake. Cabin in the middle of the forest with private access to the lake. The lodge is fully equipped, the decor is modern, and it has a terrace and a barbecue. The place is very quiet and the view is magnificent. From €100 per night + €30 for cleaning. I highly recommend it for a stay immersed in the heart of Canadian nature! Don’t hesitate for long, there’s only one !
• Le 30 de Vébron : Apartment located in the pretty village of l’Anse Saint-Jean. This 250m² apartment can accommodate up to 7 people for €160 per night. It’s well equipped, very beautiful, and located in a pleasant setting . It’s ideal if you’re traveling with family or for a group of friends .

4) Charlevoix (1 day)

On the fourth day of your Quebec journey, you will head to the Charlevoix region .

Nestled between the Saguenay fjord and Quebec City , it’s a sweet spot to break up your trip.

The journey from the fjord to Charlevoix? Just a breezy 1 hour 45 minutes .

While in Charlevoix for the day , here are some delightful choices:

• If walking’s your thing , you’ll adore the Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie Park . The river and mountain scenery? Simply breathtaking.
• Not in the mood for a workout ? Consider a river cruise instead.
• Art aficionados , make your way to Baie St-Paul and its art galleries.
• Wildlife enthusiasts , how about black bear spotting with an expert guide?
• If peace and serenity sound tempting , drive to Isle-aux-Coudres, a quaint island opposite Baie St-Paul. Hop on a ferry at Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive. The ride’s free and takes just 20 minutes.

Spend a cozy night around Charlevoix.

• Motel des Cascades: Located in Baie-Saint-Paul. Double room from 80€. Strong points: friendly staff, outdoor facilities, cleanliness.
• Hôtel au petit berger: Located in La Malbaie, facing the St. Lawrence River. Bright, spacious double room from €85 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: tranquil setting, comfortable beds, friendly staff, good breakfast. My favorite for its value for money!
• La Pignoronde: Located in Baie-Saint-Paul. Superbly decorated, fully-equipped apartment with balcony or terrace from 170€. Strong points: indoor pool, superb view, size of accommodations.
• Hôtel & Spa Le Germain Charlevoix: Located in Baie-Saint-Paul. Cosy, modern double rooms from 190€. Strong points: pool, quality of meals, location.
• Hôtel Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu : This 5* hotel is located in La Malbaie. Spacious, comfortable, warm double rooms from 210€ per night, breakfast from 18€. Strong points: all the services of a luxury hotel, spa, heated pools, attentive staff, geographical location, hotel architecture. If you want to pamper yourself during your stay in Charlevoix, this hotel is the best choice!

5) Quebec City (2 days)

No Quebec trip would be complete without basking in the glow of Quebec City . For the penultimate stop, let’s unravel the city’s magic .

A mere hour’s drive gets you from Charlevoix to Quebec City.

Once there, kick off your exploration with a stroll on the Terrasse Dufferin . This leads you right to Quebec’s crowning glory: the Château Frontenac . This iconic hotel is one of the most photographed worldwide , so don’t skip that selfie.

If you’re feeling fancy, you might even peek inside – either by booking a room or grabbing a guided tour .

Your stroll will also grace you with stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River and Île d’Orléans.

Next, swing by the Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec , a beacon of marvelous architecture. It holds a coveted spot as a “ Canadian National Historic Site “.

Then, ride the funicular down to the Petit-Champlain district , a quaint neighborhood of cobbled streets and charming shopfronts. While there, don’t miss Place Royale and the Fresque des Québécois mural .

For your day’s finale , a cruise on the Saint Lawrence River is a must. The journey offers a panoramic city view from the water. Definitely an essential experience in your Quebec itinerary.

You have two cruise options:

• An evening cruise with entertainment featuring a DJ to get the party started.
• A 5-course gourmet dinner cruise for a romantic evening.

However, if you’re touring in winter, don’t fret. Simply take the ferry from Quebec to Levis . Equipped with an icebreaker, it sails year-round, offering those same fantastic views.

Spend the night in Quebec City.

On your next and sadly final “real” day of this 9-10 day Quebec getaway, I suggest you wrap up your city tour .

Make your way to Quebec City’s Citadel and pop over to the adjacent Plains of Abraham . Next, step inside the Parliament Building and end your morning on a high note—literally—by climbing up to the Observatoire de la Capitale to get a bird’s-eye view of the city.

As for the afternoon agenda , I’ve got a must-do excursion around Quebec lined up for you: Montmorency Falls . Standing even taller than Niagara Falls, this place is utterly breathtaking . And if you’re here in winter? Don’t be shocked to find parts of the falls frozen over.

You can reach the top of the falls by hopping on the cable car departing from the parking lot. .

Book your tickets in advance by clicking here:

Spend one last night in Quebec City.

For a deep dive into Quebec City and its attractions, check out my dedicated article: The Complete Guide to Quebec City !

• Quebec City International Hostel : This hostel is located in Old Quebec. Dormitory beds from €27. Strong points: the location, the cleanliness. The best choice for budget accommodation in Quebec City !
• Hotel Manoir Vieux-Quebec : Situated right next to the Château Frontenac. Modern and comfortable double room starting at 130€ per night. Strong points: the location, the view from the terrace, the comfy beds.
• Hotel Port-Royal : Located in Old Quebec. Double room equipped with a kitchenette starting from 170€. Strong points: the location for exploring Quebec City on foot, the friendly staff.
• Hotel Clarendon : Also located in Old Quebec, you’ll stay in a 19th-century building. Cosy double room from €170, breakfast for €22. Strong points: the very comfortable beds, the central location, the views from certain rooms.
• Le Capitole Hotel : Located in Old Quebec. Superb tastefully decorated room starting from €290 per night. Strong points: the warm staff, the great location, the quality of service, the rooftop pool, the excellent breakfast. Our recommendation for a high-end stay in Quebec City !
• Château Frontenac : Why not spend a night in the world’s most photographed hotel? A unique experience and the chance to enjoy all the services and comforts of a luxury hotel: spa, pool, gourmet restaurants. A great way to treat yourself in Quebec, after all, it’s not every day you get to sleep at Château Frontenac !

Sadly, this marks the end of your 9-10 day Quebec itinerary .

It’s time to head back to Montreal , either catching your return flight later that day or the following one. From Quebec, you’re looking at a solid 3-hour drive .

If time’s on your side, why not wrap up your Montreal tour ? Perhaps swing by the Atwater Market and stock up on local goodies like maple syrup. And since the market’s right by the Lachine Canal , a stroll is a must.

For more inspiration, dive into this article: Best things to do and see in Montreal !

For a 9-day stay in Quebec, consider trimming a day in Montreal or Quebec City .

Another option for 9 days : You could skip the Charlevoix leg and head straight to Quebec City after your Fjord-du-Saguenay adventure.

But if you’re blessed with 11 days for your Quebec road trip:

• Add a stop between the 3rd (fjord) and 4th (Charlevoix) stages.
• From Fjord-du-Saguenay, make your way to Tadoussac , just 1.5 hours away.
• This is where you hop on a boat to go whale watching !
• Spend the night around Tadoussac and set off for Charlevoix the next day.

Or, if you fancy, you could also add an extra day in Quebec City . You could also embark on a day trip to watch the whales . Super convenient – they pick you up straight from your hotel in the morning. All the details to book your excursion can be found by clicking the button below.

If you need help to plan your 10-day itinerary in Quebec, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section below.

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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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

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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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2 Days in Quebec City – A Perfect Quebec City Itinerary

Are you looking for a Quebec City itinerary?

The charming old French architecture, the fresh river breeze, the singing words of the French language. No, it’s not only in Paris that you can experience these. This article will help you plan the perfect two days in Quebec City.

Although fairly young compared to Europe, Quebec City is full of history that is well worth exploring while offering a wide variety of entertainment.

As a local from Quebec City, I’d like to help you set up your itinerary with these must-sees, must-dos, and must-eats!

2 Days in Quebec City

Day 1 of your quebec city itinerary.

First, to get a better understanding of the duality of French/English occurring in Quebec, what’s better than having a glimpse at the history.

Quebec City is the cradle of civilization in Canada . Therefore it’s rich in historic events. To be honest, there are so many twists and turns in Quebec being a French civilization and then passing on to England, it’s almost a soap opera.

What the general Quebec teenager will pick up from the history classes we have in school is the following: the Wolffe (English) and his gang rock climbed Plaines D’Abraham’s cliff during the night, while Montcalm and the boys (French) had drinks all night at the tavern. Early morning comes, the French are drunk as a skunk and realize the English are standing on the Plaines. The French can’t shoot straight and lose the battle. Basically, the Nouvelle-France was lost over a hangover.

1. Plaines d’Abraham

Quebec, as we know it today, started on the Plaines d’Abraham. Once a deadly battlefield, the Plaines are now a national park where visitors can learn about the last battle , and a festival location, where multiple outdoor shows are held all summer long.

If you are seeking a rewarding view , the best access would be by the Cap Blanc stairway. Beware though; a rewarding view comes at a price! The stairway is known to be the longest in Quebec, featuring a whopping 398 steps.

The staircase was first built in 1868 to allow people from the lower town to access the ammunition factories then located on the Plaines d’Abraham. Fear not, the staircase has been rebuilt multiple times since then.

On the other hand, if you don’t really care about the scenic perspective and would prefer to save time, you can access the Plaines from Grande-Allée Boulevard.

It is best to stroll the Plaines at the beginning of the day, as it can get quite hot in the afternoon .

2. The Citadelle

After you have learned about the last battle, get closer to the action and visit the Citadelle of Quebec, which is right next door.

The Citadelle is an active military installation and the secondary official residence of both the Canadian monarch and the Governor-General of Canada. It contains the oldest military building in Canada and forms part of the fortifications of Quebec City.

Quebec is one of only two cities in North America still surrounded by fortifications, the other being Campeche, Mexico.

You can see the changing of the guard here and visit the museum.

It takes about two hours to visit this attraction, which brings us to lunchtime.

3. Lunch on Rue Saint-Jean

After such an exciting itinerary in Quebec, we must eat.

You are in luck, some of the best restaurants are located just nearby. Reach St-Louis Street, make a left turn on Auteuil, and then head for St-Jean. While you are at it, admire the Porte Saint-Jean ( Saint John Gate) .

Walk through the gate and be prepared to enter another era (with wifi).

My recommendation for lunch would be to go for the infamous poutine (french fries with cheese curds and gravy). It is best to have it for lunch instead of dinner because it tends to be on the heavy side.

If the outside temperature is over 30ᵒC (86F) don’t choose the poutine, go for a lighter choice.

On St-Jean Street (Rue Saint-Jean), there are multiple restaurants. If you are into poutine, I suggest either Les Trois Garçons (the three guys) or the Pub d’Orsay. Both are excellent choices and will have you fed until dinner.

Don’t ask for dessert; your next stop will provide that (if you are visiting in summer).

4. Terrasse Dufferin

If you took the above recommendation, you are on your way to Terrasse Dufferin.

The terrace is an absolute must for anyone seeking to take an Instagram worthy picture of the Chateau Frontenac.

The Chateau is a beautiful historic hotel and a famous landmark in Quebec City. If you want to splurge and are looking for a unique place to stay, consider booking a stay at this gorgeous hotel .

During summer, you will find ice cream and other local vendors on Terrasse Dufferin.

In my opinion, the view here is at its best at sunrise. But not everybody is willing to get up at the crack of dawn just to see the sun rising over the river, so visiting after lunch is a good option too.

5. Petit Champlain

At this point in our Quebec City itinerary, it’s an excellent time to stroll along the Petit Champlain and admire what closely resembles Montmartre in Paris .

To reach the Petit Champlain, you can either use the stairs, L’Escalier Casse-Cou (literally break-neck staircase ), but if you’ve had enough stairs for your entire life with the Plaines d’Abraham, for 5$ (CAD) you can take the funicular. Make sure you bring cash to pay for this.

The view on the funicular is picturesque, but it goes quite fast. Therefore, have your camera ready on fast shutter speed if you plan to take pictures.

The streets here are narrow and similar to Montmartre, especially during summer.

Wander around the neighborhood or stop at a patio for an apéro (a pre-dinner drink). But whatever you do, make sure you take a look at the fresco on Notre-Dame Street, telling Quebec’s story.

After the apéro, the Petit Champlain neighborhood is an excellent location for fine dining .

An exceptional choice would be the restaurant La Tanière, which offers a complete gastronomic experience.

For a more budget-conscious option, yet gastronomic, the Cochon Dingue is part of a group of restaurants, very well-known in Quebec City for the quality of the food and the unique atmosphere.

6. Dagobert

A Quebec City itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the most famous nightclub in the city.

If you’re into clubbing and nightlife, Dagobert is THE place to be.

It’s a large, castle-themed nightspot with multiple floors, music events, dancing & light shows.

Day 2 of Your Quebec City Itinerary

Let’s start the second day of your two days in Quebec City with a relaxed brunch, especially if you’ve spent the night dancing at Dagobert.

Now, I have two very different locations to recommend, with different atmospheres and vibes.

The Paris Grill, (which is part of the same group as the Cochon Dingue) offers a very trendy menu, with urban vibes and a casual atmosphere. It is located downtown which means architecturally it’s not as exciting, but the food is delicious and the staff is super friendly.

The second option is Le Lapin Sauté, which takes you back to the Petit Champlain neighborhood. Located in a historic building, it offers quite an upscale menu with things like rabbit and duck for brunch. The location is very picturesque, and you’ll be closer to the port, where your next adventure starts.

2. Take a Cruise Along the Saint Lawrence River

The afternoon begins on the St-Lawrence for a short 1.5h cruise.

Be prepared to be swept off your feet! From the old Quebec City, you will cruise on the St-Lawrence to see Orleans Island, famous for its strawberries and apples.

The cruise then takes you past Montmorency Falls, which are awe-inspiring waterfalls! The waterfalls are 83 m (272 feet) tall, which is a full 30 m (99 feet) higher than Niagara Falls.

The cruise offers views of a unique landscape while giving the opportunity to learn about the east part of Quebec City.

If you’d rather go to the waterfall on your own, that’s also possible. Take note that there are a whopping 487 stairs to reach the top, and a nice funicular ride .

3. Late-Lunch or a Snack

All this fresh air might leave you hungry, so grab a late lunch or some nice snacks.

The best place to do so is at the Bassin Louise. You’ll find a traditional market here, which is perfect for grabbing a bite.

Local crowd-pleasers such as the Orleans Island strawberries, Lac-Brome ducks, maple syrup, and other delicacies can be bought here.

4. Visit a Museum

Although it’s always better when we can enjoy the sun, on our two days in Quebec City, it might rain for a few hours.

If that happens, fear not! Quebec City has numerous great museums, such as the Museum of Civilization, the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of French America, and many others .

Choose one or two and you’ll easily fill a rainy afternoon.

Final Tips to Make the Most of Your 2 Days in Quebec

Although most people are fluent enough in English, it is best to learn some basic sentences in French .

Quebec people are ready to go above and beyond for anybody willing to say: “Bonjour, comment ça va? Je ne parle pas très bien français.” ( Hello, how are you? I don’t speak French very well ).

Public transportation isn’t the best in Quebec. You’ll have a hard time getting buses from your hotel to the places you want to visit. I’d, therefore, recommend renting a car, especially if you are staying further from the old town.

If you want to get maple syrup , please, don’t buy it at a souvenir shop. Find a grocery store such as an IGA, Provigo, Super C, or Metro and just get the can. You’ll get more bang for your buck, and it’ll likely be of better quality.

And if you visit Quebec in winter, check out this ice hotel . You can book a 3-hour trip to see this unique place and enjoy a drink at the ice bar!

I hope this article has inspired you and prepared you for a perfect 2 days in Quebec City. Feel free to get in touch, I’ll be happy to teach you some Quebec slang, to make you look like a local! 😉

• Things to Know Before Traveling to Canada
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3-Day Quebec City Itinerary & Where To Stay

This Quebec City itinerary will take you to a place like no other you will visit in North America. Located in Eastern Canada, Quebec City is steeped in European history with a heavy French heart.

Although English is spoken and widely used in all of the major tourist areas, its inhabitants are bilingual with French often being the language of choice. Sarah Pool of Tammy Mum is a frequent visitor to the city well and shares her best tips, including where to stay in Quebec City, with different budgets in mind.

Its individuality is further showcased through its beautiful historical European architecture and natural picture perfect geography and scenery. Quebec City is in itself a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it remains the only walled city north of Mexico.

The city can offer up an eclectic mix of unique entertainment, activities and incredible food. During your three days in Quebec City, you will be immersed in its lively French Canadian culture and history – all of which comes complete with a contemporary Canadian vibe and atmosphere. This Quebec City itinerary will take you to places that will show you how the city is incomparable to anywhere else.

As far as the best time of year to visit Canada or specifically Quebec City goes, there is no definitive answer. All of the seasons have unique offerings to enjoy.

Visiting Quebec City in the summer will allow you to experience its many food and street festivals under the warm summer sun. As a winter tourist, you will be treated to a majestic winter wonderland, of lights, decorations and winter festivals. Just be sure to wrap up warm. Whatever time of your you choose to visit Quebec City you will not be disappointed, it will provide you with experiences and memories to last a lifetime.

Getting To & Around Quebec City

Getting to Quebec City from most major cities in North America is quite easy. It is just 2.5 hours drive from Montreal and within an hour and a half flight from either New York or Toronto , so a long weekend in Quebec is the perfect getaway if you’re in one of these places.

That said there are regular direct flights into Quebec City International Airport from major North American cities such as Toronto, Ottawa, New York and Chicago . You can also get to Quebec City by train with a daily Rail Canada service running between  Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City .

If you are wondering how to get around Quebec City , the best way to truly take in the sights in this Quebec City itinerary is by foot. You will walk down quaint streets and unearth hidden treasures a car will be sure to miss.

Further, its city centre is high up and overlooks the river St Lawrence that divides the city into two parts, the Upper Town and the Lower Town. These parts are connected by steep streets and plenty of stairs, so walking really is the best way to get the most out of your visit. Oh, and don’t be put off by the infamously named ‘Breakneck Stairs’ that connect the Upper and Lower Town in Older Quebec.

You can also get around Quebec City using its great infrastructure and public transport system. It can take you to all the major hot spots, via shuttle or bus. The local bus network, Reseau de Transport de la Capitale (RTC) is one of the easiest ways to get between tourist attractions and they offer a variety of ticketing options.

Customers can benefit from unlimited rides, be it per day, over weekends or over five consecutive days. What is more, children under the age of 12 can ride for free when travelling with an adult, perfect for family holidays . Alternatively, if you prefer to do your own thing, car hire is available from all of the major vehicle rental companies such as Hertz, Enterprise and Avis . 

Your 3-Day Quebec City Itinerary 

Quebec city in 3 days: day 1.

On the first of your 3-day Quebec itinerary, you should go sightseeing and explore the Upper Town. You will want to get your bearings a little and the best way to do this is to walk around Quebec City or to get the open-top double-decker bus to some of the most famous landmarks. If you do opt for the bus be sure to go for the Hop on Hop Off tour so you can get off and soak in the sights at your leisure.

As the city is divided into two, the Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and the Lower Town (Basse-Ville) where you start your day may well depend on the location of your hotel, but here are some of the must-see landmarks all within walking distance of one another that are perfect for doing in a day.

The attractions below are situated in the Upper Town, if you are staying there then these are the perfect place to start. On the first of your 3 days in Quebec City, don’t forget to wander around some of the quaint cobblestone streets of the Upper Town, even those without historic monuments to visit.

The old streets are full of bars, restaurants and cafes to stop and refuel while on your travels. In the summer months, some of the roads will even be closed to traffic to allow pedestrians to walk freely.

Citadelle: A Must On Any Quebec Itinerary

The Citadelle is a National Historic site that has breathtaking views of the city and St Lawrence River and is part of the district that was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. It is a historical fortress of Old Quebec dating back 300 years and is now home to the Royal 22 Regiment. Guided tours are available and admission fees will include access to the Musee Royal and its exhibitions.

Chateau Frontenac

Located a short walk from the Citadelle, Chateau Frontenac is a world-famous hotel and the most iconic in the city. It is perched on Cape Diamond overlooking Duffin Terrance and St Lawerence river. The hotel was opened in 1873 and has welcomed international royalty and celebrities alike. You can take a guided tour of the chateau or simply step inside to admire its recently renovated lobby and 400-year-old artifacts, better yet why not stop for a drink at the bar?

Duffin Terrace: Another Must on a Long Weekend in Quebec City

When visiting Chateau Frontenac be sure to take a walk along the Duffin Terrace boardwalk and enjoy the stunning views of the St Lawerence river. Be sure to take your camera. In the summer months, you can enjoy musicians and street performers lining the boardwalk and in the winter months, it houses a giant tobogganing run, perfect for thrill-seekers.

Fortifications of Quebec

Just a ten-minute walk from the Chateau is one of the city’s most unique attractions, one of the places to visit in your 3 days in Quebec City. The Fortifications of Quebec are essentially a massive stone wall that encircles the city reminiscent of its European Heritage and is another must on your Quebec City itinerary. As mentioned, it is the only remaining walled city in North America and is one of the reasons that Quebec City remains a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Parliament Building and the Tourney Fountain

To wrap up the first of your 3 days in Quebec, you have the Parliament Building and the Tourney Fountain which sits proudly in front of it. The Parliament Building is grand and majestic and lies in the heart of Quebec City’s democracy. It is one of the oldest buildings in the city and together with the Tourney Fountain, it is a great source of pride for its inhabitants.

A top tip to remember; the fountain will be shut off in the colder months of November through to April. 

3-Day Quebec City Itinerary: Day 2

Having spent the first of your 3 days in Quebec City sightseeing the historical monuments of the Upper Town, spend day two ambling around some of the oldest and prettiest streets in Canada in Quebec City’s Lower Town .

When travelling between the Upper and Lower Town, be sure to take the Old Quebec Funicular, linking the two towns and affording you some incredible viewpoints as you travel up or down the cliff face.

You don’t need to pre-book the funicular, just turn up and ride. A trip on the Funicular will cost $3.75. Alternatively, you could take the aforementioned ‘breakneck stairs’ or Escalier Casse-Cou, the oldest Staircase in Quebec City, which was installed in the late 1600s. An Instagram moment, for sure.

The funicular will take you to the heart of Rue Petit-Champlain, which is where you want to start day 2. The streets of Petit-Champlain district will transport you back in time, to over 400 years ago when Quebec was first founded. The pretty historical streets are steeped in European culture and history of which the French sentiment is palpable. 

When in the district, be sure to visit Palace Royal, the first French settlement in North America, the birthplace of French civilization in North America if you will. Palace Royal is a historic cobblestone plaza that is home to the famous Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church, which was built in 1688. Spend some time immersing yourself in the plaza, sit and enjoy a coffee on the patio and admire the colourful doors and windows.

While in the Palace Royal district you also need to take a stroll down the postcard-worthy Quartier Petit-Champlain. It is lined with boutiques, souvenir shops, treats and restaurants, a good place to eat and shop on your weekend in Quebec City.

Given its location, you can expect to pay a small premium in some of the boutiques and cafes, but it will be worth it. Quartier Petit-Champlain is a very popular picturesque route with some impressive Instagram-worthy wall murals to behold. A must-see is the enormous Fresque Des Quebecois mural, which illustrates the history of Quebec.

After working up an appetite ambling the pretty streets be sure to pay a visit to the Chic Shack restaurant, which is said to serve up some of the best Poutine in Quebec City. You cannot go to Canada after all and not have some local Poutine.

Once you have exhausted your feet and explored the Upper and Lower towns by foot, the only way left to see the city is from the Lawrence River. Spend your day two afternoon partaking in a sightseeing river cruise . There are a number of river cruise options available and you can enjoy the sights of the city by day or night. A favourite amongst tourists and locals is to hop aboard an evening dinner cruise and indulge in fine dining with spectacular scenery.

Long Weekend In Quebec City: Last Day

After spending two days in the heart of the city, day three is the perfect time to venture out a little and take in some of the awe-inspiring natural landscape Quebec has to offer. Just 15 minutes drive from Quebec City you will find Parc de la Chute-Montmorency , which can also be reached by bike or public transport. You can also go on a small organised tour . Here you will find a breathtaking waterfall that is 30m taller than the world-renowned Niagra Falls.

The park has plenty to keep you entertained and you could easily spend the best part of your day here. You can take a cable car to the top ( see tickets here ) of the cliff to admire the falls from above or cross the suspended bridge over the falls to the Belvedere.

There is more for your long weekend in Quebec City, as there are three climbing routes that take you up the cliff for beginners and intermediate climbers.

One of the intermediate climbs includes a thrill-seeking 300m zip line along the falls, one certainly not to be missed if you like an adventure. Or why not challenge yourself to climb the 487 steps of the panoramic staircase?

If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground then pack a picnic to enjoy in the park or treat yourself to brunch at Montmorency Manor.

Where To Stay In Quebec City

When thinking of where to stay in Quebec City, if budget is of no concern, then there is only one place to stay and that is the infamous Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac .

Follow in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth II and Leonardo Dicaprio and spend a night or three in this decadent hotel. It will set you back approximately $450.00 Canadian dollars per night but you will be guaranteed a memorable stay that affords you the best views in the city.

It is THE place where to stay in Quebec City. You will be right in the heart of everything with all of the landmarks, monuments and restaurants within walking distance. Experience one of the most beautiful historical cities in the world in style by staying at one of the world’s most infamous hotels.

If you are looking for something a little more budget-friendly then just 150 muters from Old Quebec’s historic district is the Hotel Palace Royal Downtown . This hotel costs a more modest $150.00 per night and still offer up magnificent cities views and location. It benefits from a swimming pool, central courtyard and modern sumptuous rooms all of which is right in the centre of the action in the Lower Town.

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Pedro has travelled to almost 120 countries and has made his nest in London. He has also lived in Spain, Australia, the US, Georgia and Turkey. A former hotel management professional, he loves exploring local cultures, is now learning his 8th language and has a soft spot for the Middle East and the CIS countries.

Best 3 Days in Quebec City Itinerary: What to See & Do

Have you been looking for the best quebec city itinerary you’ve come to the right place..

Quebec City is a romantic city filled with history and European charm, a place you won’t soon forget.

Step back in time as you wander down cobblestone streets, admire 400-year-old buildings, and enjoy quiet cafes. With its small-town feel, this picturesque city might capture a piece of your heart as it did mine.

For years, I heard stories of its beauty, and after spending a weekend in Quebec City, I can tell you they were right and I’ve visited multiple times since!

Let’s get right into how to spend 3 days in Quebec City and tips to plan your trip.

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🤩 Do you want to see the highlights of Quebec City? Book the Quebec City Walking Tour !

Table of Contents

Day 1 in Quebec City: Old Quebec

Arrive in Quebec City and get ready to be charmed. Today will take you to the historic neighbourhood of Old Quebec in Quebec City.

If you only have one day in Quebec City, this is the 1-day Quebec City itinerary for you.

Plan to visit as many items as you prefer today and finish the rest on day 3. During my visit to Old Quebec, I split this activity list into two parts, seeing everything over two days. 

Take a walking tour of Old Quebec and stroll down the best streets in Old Quebec City . This Quebec City itinerary combines both of these to put together a perfect fall weekend itinerary. Begin with a tour of Quebec City’s historic streets.

Rue Saint Paul – a historic street lined with restaurants and shops

Cote du Colonel-Dambourges – a cobblestone-lined road with small houses

Rue Sous le Cap – a beautiful street along the base of Cap Diament cliff

Rue du Sault-au-Matelot – a cobblestone-lined road with art galleries and shops

Place des Canotiers 

Place des Canotiers is a beautifully landscaped plaza along the St.Lawrence River in the lower part of Old Quebec City.

This public square was built on a former parking lot and opened in 2017 to celebrate 150 years of the Canadian Confederation.

Place des Canotiers features gardens, multiple species of trees and shrubs, and over 50 fountain jets.

During my visit to the plaza, I ran through the fountain and had fun getting splashed by the water. A perfect place for a walk or a jog , make sure you stop by Place des Canotiers on your old Quebec City itinerary.

🤩 Visit Place des Canotiers and more of Old Quebec on this custom city tour!

Rue Saint Pierre – a historic road featuring the city’s former financial district

Place Royale

Place Royale is a historic area and the heart of Old Quebec City . It will make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time and to Europe.

Formed between Côte de the Mountain, Saint-Pierre Street, and Rue du Petit-Champlain, Place Royale contains many buildings from the history of Canada. The buildings built in this historic area are part of the oldest permanent French settlement in America .

One of the most notable buildings in Place Royale is the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church. It’s one of Canada’s oldest churches and was built where Samuel Champlain’s second house once stood.

Spend some time wandering through the streets and exploring the neighbourhood. You won’t want to miss anything. Make sure to stop at Rue du Petit-Champlain, the famous shopping street in Quebec City.

🤩 Discover the best of Old Quebec on this Quebec City Walking tour!

During my visit, the streets filled with the sound of music for a musician playing, and I could not stop admiring all of the beautiful historic architecture. I paused for a while at a cafe to take everything in and enjoy a hot chocolate.

Place Royale is one of the best parts of Quebec City and one of the best things to do in Old Quebec. It’s even more charming than walking through Old Montreal , which you should also do.

Tip: While in Place Royale, relax and stop by Cafe La Maison Smith. They have delicious pastries and hot beverages, with an adorable patio, perfect for a break from your self-guided walking tour through Old Quebec City.

Rue Sous-le-Fort – at the base of Funicular with boutique shops and restaurants

Rue du Cul-de-Sac – the famous umbrella street

Rue du Petit Champlain – the famous shopping street and most beautiful street 

Montmorency Park National Historic Site 

Montmorency Park is a National Historic Site in Old Quebec overlooking the St.Lawrence River . The park is named after the Duke of Montmorency and features cannons, statues, and a great view of Le Chateau Frontenac from afar.

Notre Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral  

Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral is a 17th-century Roman Catholic church in Old Quebec City. The oldest church in Canada , Notre Dame, is a National Historic Site of Canada. 

The cathedral has been rebuilt twice after being destroyed by fires throughout its 350+ year history. Notre Dame is an important piece of New France history and a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture. Choose to see the interior church or only the exterior during your visit.

🤩 Visit Notre Dame de Quebec Basilica on this historical walking tour !

Place D’Armes 

Place D’Armes is a public urban park in Quebec City, near the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. The park features a neo-gothic fountain at its center and is surrounded by flowerbeds, making it a great spot to relax on a park bench.

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

One of the most recognized buildings worldwide , the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is a historic luxury hotel in Old Quebec City.

Opening in 1893 and standing 262 ft tall, the Chateau Frontenac provides scenic views of the St.Lawrence River.

The lobby interior is just as stunning as the exterior of the building. Upon walking into the lobby, you will feel like you’ve been teleported back in time to Europe.  Take a guided tour for a full experience.

The Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is an iconic landmark of Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a must-visit for your Quebec City itinerary. 

Stay at the Chateau Frontenac for a memorable stay in Quebec City any time of year. If you don’t plan to stay at the hotel, you can plan to visit the cocktail bar 1608 Bar for a drink or light bite.

🤩 See the inside of the Chateau Frontanc on this guided tour!

Dufferin Terrace 

Dufferin Terrace is a scenic wooden boardwalk beside the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac and features beautiful views of the St.Lawrence River. It is a great spot to take some photos with the famous Chateau. 

At the start of Dufferin Terrace is the Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec, which will transport you to lower Old Quebec to the famous Rue du Petit-Champlain.

At the end of the boardwalk is a set of stairs that will lead you to the Citadelle of Quebec.

Below Dufferin Terrace, you will find the Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site.

Dufferin Terrace is a good place for watching the sunset. Enjoy the view from one of the gazebos or benches along the 50 m boardwalk. Some of my favourite photos of my trip to Quebec City are the ones of me at Dufferin Terrace.

And in the winter, there is tobogganing here! Which is so much fun!

🤩 Explore Dufferin Terrace and ride the Funiculaire to Old Town on this tour!

Rue des Remparts – connecting upper and lower Old Quebec, offering views of St.Lawrence and lower Quebec

Rue Couillard – an adorable street with colourful buildings 

Rue Saint-Jean – a popular street lined with restaurants and shops

Fortifications of Quebec National Historic Site of Canada

The Fortifications of Quebec National Historic Site of Canada is part of the city wall along the western side of Old Quebec. The wall extends 4.6 km until it reaches the Citadelle.

There are gates at Saint-Jean and Saint-Louis that you can walk through, connecting you to modern Quebec City.

And don’t forget to check out the view from the top of the gates, overlooking Old Quebec.

🤩 Explore the Fortifications of Quebec and Old Quebec on this walking tour!

Rue Sainte Anne – a cobblestone street with historic buildings

Rue Donnacona – a street lined with tiny stone houses

Rue Saint Louis – is one of the oldest streets and contains a fortification gate

Avenue Saint-Denis – a beautiful street lined with luxury homes

Pierre-Dugua-De-Mons Terrace 

Pierre-Dugua-De-Mons Terrace is a small park and lookout point between Dufferin Terrace and Parc du Bastion-de-la-Reine.

It takes its name after the man who instructed Samuel de Champlain to colonize New France.

Plan to enjoy a stroll along the terrace, admiring the panoramic views of the St.Lawrence River, Old Quebec, and Chateau Frontenac. 

Parc du Bastion-de-la-Reine

Parc du Bastion-de-la-Reine is a small park with scenic views overlooking the St.Lawrence River and Old Quebec.

This beautiful green space provides one of the best views of Quebec City.

Whether you come only for the stunning view or bring a picnic to enjoy while sitting on the grass, Parc du Bastion-de-la-Reine is known for its postcard-perfect views and is not to be skipped on your Old Quebec itinerary. 

La Citadelle de Quebec 

La Citadelle de Quebec is a military base near the Plains of Abraham in Quebec City, the oldest military building in Canada. As part of the Fortification of Quebec, the Citadelle is one of only two North American cities remaining with standing fortifications . The other one is in Mexico. 

A unique sight in Canada, La Citadelle de Quebec, is visited by almost 200,000 visitors annually. Within the Citadelle, you will find a museum dedicated to the Royal 22e Regiment and Candian Forces. You can explore the fortress by booking a 1-hr guided tour.

I did not tour inside the fortress during my visit due to time. It was impressive to see the exterior of the Citadelle. Whether you book a guided tour or visit only outside the walls, it is worth adding to your Quebec City 3 day itinerary. 

Plains of Abraham 

The Plains of Abraham is a historic battlefield park in Quebec City, known as the site of the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759.

The elevated park spans 240 acres west of the Citadelle of Quebec along the St.Lawrence River. Plains of Abraham Park has been transformed and is enjoyed by over 4 million annually as a place for relaxation, concerts, sports, and festivals.

To visit, you can walk, ride a bus, or drive. During my visit, I walked and drove around the Plains of Abraham. The park is massive, so I found this to be the best way to see more of the park in less time.

Day 2 in Quebec City: Day Trip from Quebec City

Today you will take a day trip in and around the Quebec City area.

Quebec City and Area Tour 

While there is a lot to do in the city, taking a day trip from Quebec City is a great addition to any Quebec City itinerary and will allow you to see more of this beautiful region of Quebec during your stay.

You will need a vehicle to reach these places, except for Montmorency Falls. These day trip locations will take you northeast out of the city. Choose to do some or all of them in the order that best suits you.

What to See and Do on a Quebec Day Trip

Montmorency Falls 

Visiting Montmorency Falls from Quebec City is a perfect addition to your day trip and is one of the most fun things to do in Quebec City . Just outside of the city, in Montmorency Falls Park, it is easy to reach this beautiful tall waterfall . 

Ontario has the iconic Niagara Falls and Quebec has the stunning Montmorency Falls, and both are worth visiting.

Park your car at the bottom of the falls and ride the cable car up to the top for incredible views from above the falls and the St.Lawrence River.

Wondering how to get to Montmorency Falls from Quebec City ?

If you don’t have a car, that’s okay because the falls are accessible by bus, bike tour , or bus tour.

🤩 Visit Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupre on this half-day tour from Quebec City!

Île d’Orléans

Île d’Orléans is a small island on the other side of the St.Lawrence River east of downtown Quebec City.

Known as the garden of Quebec , the island produces a variety of local produce and products, including apples, berries, potatoes, and maple syrup.

Drive around the island, especially the southern side, for local shops and views of Quebec City from afar.

🤩 Eat your way through Île d’Orléans on this half-day food tour!

Tip: Do not leave Île d’Orléans without purchasing some local products . The island is known for producing high-quality and delicious local products . I bought a jar of honey, which was one of the most delicious jars I’ve ever had. I also purchased Quebec jams and caramel spreads to bring home as souvenirs.

Canyon Sainte-Anne 

Canyon Sainte-Anne is a stunning gorge created by the Sainte-Anne-du-Nord River near Beaupré, Quebec.

Within Canyon Sainte-Annethe is a breathtaking 243 ft waterfall.

The park features trails on both sides of the canyon, three suspension bridges, a restaurant, and an Air Canyon ride.

A 30-50 minute drive from Quebec City , Canyon Sainte-Anne makes for a perfect day trip to escape the city and enjoy Quebec’s unforgettable wilderness. 

During my visit, I hiked along the waterfall and rode the Air Canyon ride. The ride was so much fun that I ended up riding it twice.   

Note: Canyon Sainte-Anne is open May-October, so you will not be able to visit during November-April and can exclude this from your winter or spring itinerary.

Day 3 in Quebec City: Old Quebec 

Today is day three and the last day of your 3 Days in Quebec City itinerary. Plan to finish up any remaining items from day one. 

Once done, you have finished this 3 Day Quebec City itinerary. Here are more ideas for what to do in Quebec City:

Other Things to Do in Quebec City

• Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec – a fine arts museum dedicated to Quebec art
• Museum of Civilization – a popular museum showcasing the history of society
• Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec – a cable car connecting upper and lower Old Quebec
• Quebec City Old Port – a riverfront marina and cruise port

How Many Days Do You Need in Quebec City? 

Deciding how many days to spend in Quebec City will depend on whether you plan to visit only Quebec City or combine it with other parts of Quebec.

You should spend at least three days in Quebec City .

If you want to expand your journey outside of Quebec City, to take a trip to both Montreal and Quebec City or Quebec City and Charlevoix, you should spend at least 5-7 days. 

Use this travel guide to help you plan your Quebec City weekend itinerary or any time that you will spend 3 days or longer. Quebec City is great for a long weekend getaway.

Best Time to Visit Quebec City

Quebec City offers a different experience in each season (spring, summer, fall, and winter), so it’s hard to choose the best time to go. The best season for Quebec depends on what you want to see and do.

Spring has cooler temperatures, but everything is slowly waking up from winter.

In summer, everything is warm and alive. There are many fun summer activities ranging from boat tours to waterfalls, and much more.

Fall has comfortable cooler temperatures and fall colours. The leaves are vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange and Quebec looks so pretty during this season.

Winter in Quebec City is known for its famous ice hotels . I fell in love with Quebec City’s winter charm.

Whatever season you choose to visit, enjoy your time in Quebec City.

Where to Stay in Old Quebec City

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac – a 5-star hotel with beautiful views of the St.Lawrence River and Old Quebec

Hotel Clarendon – a historic 4-star hotel in the heart of Old Quebec

Auberge Saint-Antoine Relais & Châteaux – a 4-star hotel with historic charm and modern comforts in Lower Old Quebec

Is Quebec City Safe? 

Quebec City is considered one of the safest cities to live in and visit in Canada, even at night. With a low crime rate, crimes like muggings or pickpocketing are rare.

As with any city, observe your surroundings and don’t flaunt valuables.

During my visit, I felt very safe in Quebec City, even at night, walking back to my accommodations after a day of exploring. 

Is Quebec City Expensive? 

In general, Quebec City is somewhere in the middle on pricing . Within the city, you will find luxury and affordable options available, from accommodation to food.

It can be more expensive than other Canadian cities to visit, but it is also one of the most affordable places to live in Canada. 

Getting Around Quebec City

You can get around in Quebec City by walking, biking, driving, riding a bus, rideshare, or taking a taxi.

Quebec City, especially Old Quebec City, is very walkable as most attractions are somewhat close together. If you have a vehicle, plan to park it in one spot and walk or bus around town for the rest of the day.

To use public transportation, the bus system in Quebec City is well-connected. Fares on the RTC bus system are $3.50 per ride, with buses running daily. You can also purchase day passes, weekend passes, and 5-day passes for the bus.

During my visit, I used a combination of walking and driving.

🤩 Get around Quebec City faster and see more with an e-bike rental!

How to Get to Quebec City

To reach Quebec City, you can train, bus, drive or fly.

If flying, you will arrive at Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) on the west of the city.

The VIA Rail train arrives in Sainte-Foy outside the city.

Buses arrive at the bus terminal near the old port. 

To arrive from Toronto, it takes approximately 8 hours to drive, 10 hours by train, or a 1.5-hour flight. From Montreal, it takes around 3 hours to drive or bus to Quebec City or under an hour to fly. During my visit to Quebec City, I arrived via car as part of a road trip from Ontario.

How to Get to Downtown Quebec City from the Airport 

Quebec City has one main airport, the Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB). To reach downtown from the airport (YQB), bus, taxi, or drive a rental vehicle. 

To get to downtown Quebec City by bus, you will ride either route 76 or 80. Route 76 and 80 run daily every 30 minutes between 5 am and 11 pm. If you ride route 80, it will take you directly downtown. If you ride route 76, you will transfer. The ride lasts approximately 1 hour and costs $3.50, paid via coins. 

🚗 Save time and book your private airport arrival shuttle in advance

What Language Do They Speak in Quebec City? 

They speak French and English in Quebec City, but French is primary.

While French is not required to visit Quebec City, it will help and add to your travels to learn basic phrases before you go and speak French when you can. 

During my trip, locals did their best to speak English to me, and I did my best to speak French with them. I am better at reading French versus speaking, so menus are easier for me than conversations. I welcome every opportunity to practice my French.

You will find that some restaurants have French and English menus available.  

Helpful Tips for Visiting Quebec City 

• The best time to go to Quebec is either summer or winter, although each season has unique experiences available.
• The currency in Quebec is the Canadian dollar.
• Quebec has a drinking age of 18 years old.
• Tap water is safe to drink in Quebec City.

FAQs about Planning a Trip to Quebec City

Why is quebec city so famous.

Quebec City is famous for its rich history, European architecture, and natural beauty. The only fortified city in North America outside of Mexico, this charming town feels like stepping back in time. One of the only places in Canada to get a taste of Europe without travelling to Europe. Much easier to go for a weekend getaway than to travel to Paris .

Is It Worth Going to Quebec City?

Quebec City is absolutely worth visiting . It is one of the most enjoyable cities to explore in North America, loved by Canadians as Americans love visiting New York City , but different.  It’s a romantic, fun, historic city that I wish I went sooner. Seeing it for the first time, I fell in love.

What are 3 Things You Should Do as a First-Time Visitor to Quebec City?

Three things you should do on your first trip to Quebec City are: visit Old Quebec, see the inside and outside of the iconic Chateau Frontenac, and go to Montmorency Falls .

What is the Most Beautiful Part of Quebec?

The most beautiful part of Quebec City is the neighbourhood of Old Quebec . This historic area is divided into upper and lower Old Quebec, containing the famous Chateau Frontenac, cobblestone roads, restaurants, and shopping.

Do I Need a Car in Quebec City?

No, you do not need a car in Quebec City, especially if you plan on staying within the city, like in Old Quebec and nearby, such as visiting Montmorency Falls. Walking is a great way to get around the city, and then you don’t need to consider where to pay and parking fees. I had a car, as I was on a road trip from Montreal, but I kept my car at my accommodations during my time exploring Quebec City.

Is it Better to Stay in Upper or Lower Quebec City?

With its proximity to restaurants, clubs, and beautiful views over the city, staying in Upper Quebec City is often the first choice . For a quieter stay, where you don’t plan to go out much after dark, staying in Lower Quebec will be better. During my visit, I stayed in Lower Quebec.

Which is Better: Montreal or Quebec City?

Choosing which is better between Montreal and Quebec City is a difficult decision. Montreal is better for its modernness and abundance of places to eat . Quebec City is better for its historic charm and closeness to nature. Ideally, you should visit both. Choose Montreal for more food options and Quebec City for its history and beauty.

🤩Discover Quebec City from the water on this sightseeing cruise!

Final Thoughts: Quebec City 3 Day Itinerary

Quebec City is one of the most beloved cities by Canadians and is sure to impress.

With so many beautiful places to explore and delicious food to eat, this Quebec itinerary will help you focus on seeing the best of the city.

Don’t miss visiting Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls, and seeing the St.Lawrence River.

When deciding how many days in Quebec City, spend at least 3 days in Quebec City for the most memorable time, and enjoy your taste of Europe in Canada.

Happy travelling!

Travelling to Canada? Read more:

• Hiking Enderby Cliffs in BC
• The Best Jasper National Park Tours
• Where to Stay in Jasper in Winter
• 3 Days in Jasper Winter Itinerary
• Jasper Food Tour Review
• Hiking Maligne Canyon Icewalk
• Fun Things to Do in Jasper in Winter
• Skiing and Snowboarding in Jasper
• Abraham Lake Bubbles: Best Time to Visit
• Visiting Niagara Falls in Winter
• How to Get to Bathtub Island
• Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout Trail Hike
• Hiking Cup and Saucer Trail on Manitoulin Island
• Hiking Pink Lake in Gatineau
• How to Spend 2 Days in Montreal
• The Best Walking Tours in Montreal
• Must-Eat Places in Montreal
• Fun Things to Do in Montreal in the Summer
• How to Spend 3 Days in Quebec City
• The Best Old Quebec City Walking Tours
• The Prettiest Streets in Quebec City
• How to Get to Montmorency Falls from Quebec City
• Fun Things to Do in Quebec City in Summer
• Fun Things to Do in Quebec City in Winter
• Kayaking Hopewell Rocks
• Best Places to See on the Irish Loop in Newfoundland
• Hiking La Mache Suspension Bridge
• Fun Things to Do in Newfoundland
• Watching a Cape Spear Sunrise: North America’s First Sunrise

Melissa is the founder of My Beautiful Passport. A Canadian who has explored 15+ countries on 4 continents, she enjoys combining adventure and affordable luxury. Through sharing her own experiences, travel tips, and destination itineraries, she helps others plan their unique adventures whether it be at the beach, in the city, or in the mountains.

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The Ultimate Quebec Road Trip Itinerary for 2024: An Itinerary You NEED to Steal

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: November 8, 2023

Categories North America

Ready to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Quebec and all that it has to offer as you plan an ultra-rad Quebec road trip itinerary this summer and beyond?

Heck yeah, you are since Quebec is easily one of the most gorgeous provinces in Canada and is home to some of the most beautiful places to visit in the entire country.

However, with so much to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to planning some of the most scenic drives in Quebec .

Well, luckily for you, I’ve been hopping across the border and traveling throughout Quebec for well over 30 years now.

Yup, my family has a house on Lake Champlain – near the border in New York – and I’ve been loving Quebec since the ripe old age of six.

Therefore, I have the inside scoop on what to do, where to go, and what to see when planning the best ever Quebec road trip .

So, stop seeing Quebec like a tourist and start experiencing all that this next-level magical province has to offer as you enjoy some of the best-hidden gems in the region with this comprehensive guide to planning a road trip through Quebec .

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

14 Day Quebec Road Trip Itinerary Summary

• Day 1 – 2 – Montreal
• Day 3 – Eastern Townships
• Day 4 – 5 – Quebec City
• Day 6 – La Malbaie
• Day 7 – 8 – Tadoussac
• Day 9 – Rimouski
• Day 10 – Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
• Day 11 – 12 – Gaspé
• Day 13 – Percé
• Day 14 – Carleton-sur-mer

Alternative 21 Day Itinerary for Quebec

• Day 1 – 3 – Montreal
• Day 4 – 5 – Eastern Townships
• Day 6 – 8 – Quebec City
• Day 9 – 10 La Malbaie
• Day 11 – 13 – Tadoussac
• Day 14 – Rimouski
• Day 15 – 16 – Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
• Day 17 – 18 – Gaspé
• Day 19 – 20 – Percé
• Day 21 – Carleton-sur-mer

Best Quebec Road Trip itinerary

1. montreal.

The largest city in Quebec is also one of the hippest in Canada!

After all, Montreal is known throughout the country for its rich history, awesome festivals, and stellar takeaway food like poutine and bagels.

You’ll also find unique neighborhoods full of cafes and shops, as well as a thriving street art scene that everyone will enjoy.

As a result, this enchanting city makes for an ideal first stop on your epic Quebec road trip .

Trust me, you’ll find a long list of things to do in Montreal that keep you there for a week. But, if you’re looking for a taste of the city, I recommend adding at least two days in Montreal to your road trip itinerary.

Top Things to do in Montreal

• Notre Dame Basilica – Reminiscent of the grand Notre Dame in Paris, Montreal’s Notre Dame is a must-visit. The church is nearly 200 years old and is home to stunning stained-glass windows from Limoges. Be sure to look up so you can take in the vaulted ceiling with its 24 karat gold stars against a rich dark blue background. Plus, there’s a light and sound show called Aura too.
• Museum of Fine Arts – Montreal is filled with museums, but the best and largest is the Museum of Fine Arts. The museum is spread out over five pavilions and features a concert hall, a theater, and even hosts a variety of events. You’ll also find over 45,000 pieces of art within, that includes everything from paintings to sculptures.
• Street Art – If you’re looking for free things to do in Montreal then wander the streets in search of street art. You’ll find a heavy presence throughout the city, especially in Old Montreal, Chinatown, and in Griffintown. However, the best neighborhood to find stunning murals Plateau Mont-Royal. Here you’ll find the most iconic pieces that Montreal is known for. There’s even a guided tour that you can take that is known as the Official Mural Tour!
• Mont-Royal Park – Ascend over 500 wooden stairs that will take you to gorgeous lookouts, a stunning waterfall, and to some of the best views of Montreal. In fact, Mont-Royal Park is filled with a ton of amazing things to do and places to visit. After all, there are hiking trails, museums, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and more. You can also pop into Mount Royal Cottage, a historic building complete with a gift shop and nifty little café.

What to Eat in Montreal

• St-Viateur Bagel – One of the best places to grab wood-oven baked bagels in Montreal!
• La Banquise – This all-night diner serves Québécois grub, like one of the best poutines in the city.
• Île Flottante – For stylish French dishes with a n incredible presentation. Reserve a table and try their seasonal tasting menu.

Where to Stay in Montreal

• Hygie Hotel (budget) – This small pod hotel offers both dorm and private rooms. With a garden, terrace, and ideal location in the old port, Hygie Hotel is a great option for budget travelers.
• Best Western Plus Montreal Downtown (mid-range) – Located downtown and close to the top sights, this mid-range hotel has everything you need. It has contemporary rooms, a restaurant, and parking.
• Boxotel (luxury) – With studios, lofts, and apartments, this 4-star luxury hotel boasts a gym, hammam, rooftop terrace, and city views. Plus, it’s ideally located downtown.

Di stance and Travel Time from Montreal to Magog: 1.5 hours and 75 miles east of Montreal

2. Eastern Townships

Quebec’s Eastern Townships are known for their wineries, natural landscapes, and culinary scene.

This region is also situated within the southeastern portion of the province, between the St. Lawrence Lowlands and the US border.

Therefore, it features a collection of small towns and cities, like Magog, that make for a picturesque stop on your Quebec road trip itinerary.

Things to do in the Eastern Townships

• Le Cep d’Argent Vineyard – When in Quebec’s wine region a visit to one of the area’s top wineries is a must. And one of the best winegrowers in Magog is Le Cep d’Argent Vineyard. The winery offers incredible views of the fields and the Magog River. So, stop by for a tasting, a tour of the winery, and to enjoy some local wine at one of the first wineries in Quebec!
• Mont-Orford National Park – For outdoor enthusiasts this is one of Magog’s top attractions. After all, Mont-Orford National Park has a ton of fun things to do like hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and more! So, if you’re planning a road trip in Quebec in the fall then this park is a great stop to take in the fall colors.
• Spa Nordic Station – Add a few hours at the spa if you’re looking for some pampering during your Quebec road trip! See, The Spa Nordic Station offers guests a range of treatments and packages. You can enjoy Swedish massages, saunas, cold waterfalls, and even three-course meals!

What to Eat in Magog

• Alessa Trattoria – This modern Italian restaurant has the best pizza in town!
• Pinocchio – Perfect for French cuisine, specifically salmon tartar and a perfect crème brulee.
• Cantine Chez Paul Enr – Stop here for the best poutine in the area!

Where to Stay in Magog

• Auberge jeunesse Magog-Orford (budget) – Located downtown, this budget accommodation offers guests both private and dorm rooms. There’s also a café within this charming century-old building where you can enjoy complimentary breakfast.
• Hotel Verso – This new beach hotel is also downtown. Hotel Verso has a cool mid-century modern vibe, awesome views of Lake Memphremagog, and a Mediterranean bistro.

Distance and Travel Time from Magog to Quebec City: 2.5 hours and 157 miles

3. Quebec City

The top stop on any Quebec road trip is, of course, the capital, Quebec City!

Home to one of North America’s oldest settlements, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Europe! Yup, there really are so many reasons why this city, with its walled old town, a castle-like hotel, and a thriving food scene should be on everyone’s Canada road trip bucket list!

Things to do in Quebec City

• Explore Old Quebec – Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dig deep into the history of Quebec with a wander through the old town or with a walking tour . Walk the cobblestone streets, stroll the old stone walls, and check out the top sights like Place Royale, and the oldest stone church in North America. Then take the funicular up to the Dufferin Terrace and stroll the boardwalk.
• Observatoire de la Capitale – For some of the best views of Quebec City head to the tallest skyscraper in the city. From the 31st floor you’ll enjoy sweeping 360-degree views of the city, the St. Lawrence River, and even the Laurentian Mountains.
• Take a Food Tour – The city has begun to make its mark on the culinary scene in the province. A great way to experience Quebec City is on a food tour. There are a variety of food tours available that bring you to all the best places to eat and taste the best foods the city has to offer.
• Musée des Beaux-Arts – With a bunch of great museums, one of the best is the Beaux-Arts Museum. Set over four pavilions, within the Plains of Abraham, this art museum has over 38,000 pieces in its collection. You’ll find works from both Quebec and international artists too. Also, don’t forget to check out the rooftop garden and on-site art garden too.

What to Eat in Quebec City

• La Buche – Enjoy traditional Quebecois cuisine like tourtiere and crepes.
• Le Chic Shack – This casual restaurant is known for their gourmet burgers, but you’ll want to try their poutines and homemade sodas.
• La Planque – This lively spot brings Canadian fare to the next level! Try one of their seafood dishes.

Where to Stay in Quebec City

• Auberge Internationale de Québec (budget) – For budget accommodation, this hostel in old Quebec City is perfect! It has both dorm and private rooms as well as a terrace and café.
• Le Monastere des Augustines (mid-range) – If you’re looking for unique places to stay, try this converted 17th century monastery. Located just minutes from the old town, this hotel has cozy rooms, a restaurant, and yoga classes.
• Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac (luxury) – This dreamy castle-like hote l is a National Historic Site of Canada. It has luxurious rooms with views of the St. Lawrence River, a spa, restaurant, wine bar, and indoor pool.

Distance and Travel Time from Quebec City to La Malbaie: 1.75 hours and 88 miles

Pro Tip: Ensure your accommodation offers parking if you’re staying in the old town.

Plus, stop at Montmorency Falls on your way to La Malbaie. This waterfall is higher than Niagara Falls and is one of the top attractions in Quebec!

4. La Malbaie

Best known for the Charlevoix Meteorite Crater, La Malbaie is a great addition to any road trip in Quebec!

In fact, the road from Quebec City to La Malbaie is considered one of the most scenic drives in Canada!

So, any nature lovers embarking on this quebec road trip itinerary will love all of the parks and outdoor adventures to be found in the area.

However, there’s something for everyone here, from museums to a quaint downtown.

Things to do in La Malbaie

• Hautes‑Gorges-de-la-Rivière‑Malbaie National Park – This incredible regional park is part of the UNESCO Charlevoix biosphere reserve. The Malbaie River runs through a towering gorge and is home to 10 hiking trails and multiple waterfalls. The most popular hike is Acropole des Draveurs Trail. Plus, you can also take a guided boat tour through the gorge.
• Garden of the Four Winds – This privately owned garden is the largest of its kind in Canada. Covering 20 acres, there are around 25 different gardens including rock, sculpture, and Japanese. This whimsical attraction also has waterfalls, an enchanted tower, and sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River.
• Au P’tit Bonheur Art Gallery – Set in a lovely home, this large art gallery showcases the works of over 30 painters and sculptors from Quebec and across Canada. Throughout the exhibit space you’ll even find the owner’s collection of antique glass.

What to Eat in La Malbaie

• Chez Truchon – Auberge & Bistro – This lovely inn and French bistro is set within a century home. Top dishes are the foie gras and filet mignon.
• Maison du Bootlegger – If you’re looking for dinner and a show then head to this museum and restaurant. Enjoy a guided tour of the 1860s Speakeasy with hidden passageways and doors. And then for dinner you’ll want to order the steak!

Where to Stay in La Malbaie

• Auberge de Jeunesse La Malbaie (budget) – This hostel is minutes from downtown and offers a range of rooms. Some of the rooms even have water views!
• Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu ( luxury) – This luxurious 1929 chateau hote l has awesome views of the St. Lawrence River, and three restaurants.

Distance and Travel Time from La Malbaie to Tadoussac: 1 hour and 46 miles

Pro Tip: On your way to Tadoussac, add stops at Fromagerie Saint-Fidele to try local cheeses and to check out the observation deck in Saint-Siméon. Also take the ferry from Baie Sainte-Catherine to Tadoussac since it’s free and runs year-round.

5. Tadoussac

The charming village of Tadoussac is a popular destination for whale watching and outdoor adventures.

It’s also located at the edge of the Saguenay Fjord and the St. Lawrence River and is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful bays in the world!

You’ll also find rich history here since this village was founded in 1600 and is now one of the oldest settlements in North America – making it an essential part of any Quebec road trip itinerary.

Things to do in Tadoussac

• Go Whale Watching – One of the bucket list things to do in Quebec is go whale watching ! And Tadoussac is one of the best places in the Côte-Nord region to see a wide variety of whales. The best time to take a tour is from May to October. During this time, you can see humpback whales, blue whales, and more! However, you can also see beluga whales here throughout the year.
• Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre – In this museum you’ll learn all about the whales that visit the area through videos, exhibits, and even whale song! There’s also an impressive 43-foot-long sperm whale skeleton within their collection!
• Saguenay Fjords National Park – This scenic park is a must for outdoor adventurers! Park activities include sea kayaking, cycling, and hiking. There are also a dozen different hiking trails within the park, one of which, Le Fjord trail, even goes right into Tadoussac. The top two trails for epic views though are Notre Dame du Saguenay Statue Trail and Giant’s Viewpoint via River Path.

What to Eat in Tadoussac

• Mathilde Express – If you’re looking for great take out this spot is attached to the Chez Mathilde Bistro. A go-to dish is their fish and chips.
• Café Bohème – This charming café serves French-inspired food that includes a variety of vegan dishes. A favorite is their savory crepe.
• Le William – This fine dining restaurant is located in Hotel Tadoussac and offers regional cuisine and waterside views. One of the most popular menu items is the halibut.

Where to Stay in Tadoussac

• Hôtel Tadoussac – This iconic hotel dates to 1864 and is conveniently located close to everything. It has a spa, outdoor pool, restaurant, and rooms with awesome views of the water.
• Canopee Lit – Just outside of town you’ll find one of the coolest places to stay in Quebec. This unique resort lets you sleep among the trees in their treetop cabins and spheres.

Distance and Travel Time from Tadoussac to Rimouski: 2 hours and 40 minutes and 96 miles

Pro Tip: Continue driving along Quebec Route 132 to Forestville. From there you’ll take the Rimouski – Forestville Ferry. It runs a few times a day and takes an hour to cross.

6. Rimouski

Back on the southern banks of the St. Lawrence River, you’ll find yourself driving along one of the most scenic roads in Quebec, Route 132.

The Highway takes you along the coast and wraps around the Gaspe Peninsula. In particular, Rimouski is located in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region and is a city known for its epic parks, vibrant downtown, and seaside boardwalk.

Things to do in Rimouski

• Hell’s Gate Canyon – This awesome adventure park is home to the highest suspension bridge in Quebec! Towering over 200 feet, the bridge crosses the canyon here for epic views of the surroundings area! Canyon des Portes de L’enfer, as it’s called in French, is also home to a network of hiking trails, waterfalls, and a life-sized maze.
• Bic National Park – One of the best parks in the region, especially for wildlife viewing, is Bic National Park. Encompassing 8,200-acres, the park stretches along the shores of the St. Lawrence and offers visitors plenty of opportunities for sea kayaking and hiking. Plus, it’s a popular spot to see seals and seabirds. Don’t forget to check out the Raoul-Roy Lookout too!
• Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic Site – Learn about many of the events that took place in the area at this historic site. The site is home to the Onondaga, which is the first publicly accessible submarine in Canada, as well as the Empress of Ireland Museum. The museum also tells the story of the steamship and its wreck off the coast. It’s also where you’ll find the Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse, which is the second tallest in Canada. Be sure to take the tour that brings you up to the top for an amazing view!

What to Eat in Rimouski

• Le Crêpe Chignon – If you’re looking for light fare in a casual space then head to this café and order their beloved crepes.
• La Réserve Bistro – This fine dining French bistro has a seasonal menu of regional fare. One of the best dishes is their braised beef.

Where to Stay in Rimouski

• Motel Lyse (budget) – Located just outside of downtown Rimouski, this budget mote l has free parking and comfortable rooms.
• Hotel Le Saint Germain (mid-range) – This mid-range hotel is located downtown, has modern rooms, free breakfast and parking. Many rooms have awesome water views and kitchenettes too.

Distance and Travel Time from Rimouski to Sainte-Anne-des-Monts: 2 hours and 113 miles

7. Sainte-Anne-des-Monts

Continuing along Quebec Route 132, you’ll arrive at another small city, Sainte-Anne-des-Monts. The city sits along the St. Lawrence River but is backed by the Chic-Choc Mountains.

It’s also known as the gateway to the Gaspésie National Park, making it a favorite destination in the Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine region for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers.

However, you’ll find a scenic boardwalk, museum, and a microbrewery here too as you continue with your Canada road trip itinerary.

Things to do in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts

• Exploramer – Located at the dock, this museum is a fun spot for kids and adults alike! So, step inside to learn all about the aquatic species that call the St. Lawrence River home. In total, there are over 20 tanks with fish and other marine creatures inside them, plus touch pools and even tasting activities. Plus, if you’re looking to get out on the water, they run several sea excursions that allow you to explore the ecosystem of the St. Lawrence.
• Gaspésie National Park – A top destination year-round, Gaspésie National Park is home to the McGerrigle and Chic-Chocs mountains. So, in the summer, activities include hiking, canoeing, fishing, and camping. In the winter, you can enjoy snowshoeing and skiing. Additionally, Mont Jacques-Cartier sits within the park and is the second highest peak in Quebec. The park is also home to the last remaining herd of caribou found south of the St. Lawrence.
• Monique and Gisèle Benoit Center – The center is a great place to learn about the plant and animal life that calls the area home. Thanks to these well-known naturalists, the center is filled with displays that showcase their paintings. There’s also a spot to view documentaries as well as a gift shop. Be advised that it is open seasonally from June to October and admission is free.

What to Eat in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts

• Marie 4 poches – If you’re looking for something light or quick takeaway for your Quebec road trip, this adorable little bakery is the perfect stop. They have an assortment of baked goods, and sandwiches for you to enjoy.
• La Broue dans l’Toupet – Located within the Hotel & Cie, this restaurant is known for amazing seafood, like their crispy calamari.
• Auberge Chateau Lamontagne – This hotel has a lovely French gastropub that sits high atop a hill overlooking the water. You can’t go wrong with one of their seafood menu items that can be paired with a glass of wine.

Where to Stay in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts

• Gîte La P’tite Falaise (budget) – Located right downtown, this budget-friendly bed and breakfast is within walking distance of many top sights and restaurants. It also has cozy rooms, free parking, and bicycles to rent.
• Auberge Chateau Lamontagne – Perched on a hill, with sweeping views of the St. Lawrence, this heritage hotel dates to 1873. Along with a restaurant, it has both rooms and chalets.

Distance and Travel Time from Sainte-Anne-des-Monts to Gaspé: 2.5 hours and 125 miles

Pro Tip: Make a Quebec road trip itinerary stop at Pointe-à-la-Renommée Lighthouse on your way to Gaspé.

At this historic site you’ll find sweeping coastal views. It’s also just two hours from Sainte-Anne-des-Monts but the road leading up to it can be rough.

8. Gaspé

A necessary addition to any Quebec road trip itinerary is Gaspé! This incredible city sits at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula and was even noted by National Geographic Traveler as one of the top places to visit in Canada!

And well before Jacques Cartier came ashore in Gaspé Bay, the indigenous Mi’kmaq people called the area gespeg, which means ‘land’s end.’

Therefore, Gaspé is known for its incredible landscapes and for being the ‘Birthplace of Canada’.

Things to do in Gaspé

• Forillon National Park – One of the best parks in Quebec can be found in Gaspé. In fact, Forillon National Park stretches out into the Gulf of the St. Lawrence and is filled with both historic sites and outdoor activities. A couple of the heritage sites include the Fort Peninsula and the Cap Gaspé Lighthouse. Along with scenic lookouts and many bird/whale watching sites, there are nearly a dozen hiking trails tucked away inside.
• Gaspesie Museum – This museum shares with visitors the history and culture of the Gaspé Peninsula. As a result, you’ll find an array of exhibits that showcase the area’s people, places, and stories. And one of the newest attractions is an immersive exhibit that brings nearly 400 million years of history to life! From the museum you can also walk along the boardwalk to get to the next sight!
• Birthplace of Canada – Set along the boardwalk that hugs the shore is one of the most popular monuments in Gaspé. Here, in 1534, Jacques Cartier put up a cross that would go on to earn Gaspé its nickname of “Birthplace of Canada.” Now, a replica stands in its place. The historic site is also home to a variety of activities, like costumed historical figures sharing stories and other free events to add to your Quebec road trip itinerary.

What to Eat in Gaspé

• Casse-croute Jo-Ann – A fun seasonal roadside food stand that is said to have the best poutine in the area. However, their lobster roll is a safe bet too!
• Brise Bise – This colorful restaurant serves up comfort food and live music. Be sure to try their shrimp poutine.
• Cafe Des Artistes – Go for the coffee, views, and cool aesthetic! Stay for the delicious breakfast options and the smoked salmon bagel!

Where to Stay in Gaspé

• Motel Le Noroît – Located on the water at the edge of Forillon National Park, this budget motel is a great find for cheap accommodation in an awesome location.
• Hôtel Plante – Set within Gaspé, this mid-range hotel has renovated rooms and an indoor pool. Because of its hillside location you’ll get views of Gaspé Bay.
• Chalets du Bout du Monde – These adorable cottages are rustic-chic with incredible water views. Each cottage also has a kitchen, deck, and barbeque.

D istance and Travel Time from Gaspé to Percé: 45 minutes and 39 miles

9. Percé

This charming fishing village is known for two big natural features! The first is Perce Rock, a limestone rock formation towering high above the sea just offshore.

And the second is Bonaventure Island, which is a hotspot for birders. Beyond all that, Perce is filled with quaint shops, cafes, and colorful buildings just waiting to be explored as part of any Quebec road trip itinerary.

Things to do in Percé

• Bonaventure Island – A bucket list item for any road trip in Quebec is a tour of this incredible island! Hop aboard a morning boat tour that takes you around Percé Rock and then stops at the island. This island is also famous for being home to the largest colony of gannets in North America. Along with these must-see birds, the island has four scenic hiking trails, century old homes, and other wildlife off its shores like whales and seals.
• Percé UNESCO Global Geopark – For a host of fun activities and during which you can learn about the region’s geological significance visit Percé Geopark. Here, you’ll find interactive exhibits, a zipline, and an epic viewing platform. It’s a short, thirty-minute, hike to the glass platform that stretches out over the cliff. Standing over 650 feet above sea level, you can see the famous Percé Rock and other key sights too.
• Percé Boardwalk – Relax and soak in the beautiful sea views you get with a stroll along the Percé boardwalk. Winding its way along the shore, the boardwalk offers views of the Percé Rock and give you beach access to lounge chairs where you can sit and unwind. Plus, there’s an observation tower off the boardwalk for sweet panoramic views.

What to Eat in Percé

• Nath & Compagnie – If you’re looking for unique places to eat in Percé, then you’ll love this quaint library café. Surrounded by books, you can enjoy a range of light fare, desserts, and pastries.
• Pub Pit Caribou – This rustis pub has all the charm and spunk that you’d expect in a fishing village! Go for their impressive beer selection and smoked salmon and stay for the live entertainment.
• Buvette Thérèse – This is the best restaurant in town for fish and chips. Or, you can opt for one of their poutine varieties instead if you need to refuel after your Quebec road trip itinerary.

Where to Stay in Percé

• Riotel Percé (budget) – With views of the water, this beachfront hotel is close to many of the sights and has contemporary rooms and a restaurant.
• Auberge Au Fil des Saisons – This is another budget option nestled inside a Victorian bed and breakfast . It’s also within walking distance to all the attractions and serves a delicious breakfast.

Distance and Travel Time from Percé to Carleton-sur-mer: 2.5 hours and 124 miles

10. Carleton-sur-Mer

The last stop on your Quebec road trip itinerary is a charming town on the southern shores of the Gaspé Peninsula.

Wedged between mountains and the sea, Carleton-sur-Mer provides visitors with everything from outdoor activities to relaxing time spent wandering boardwalks and learning about the area’s intriguing history and culture.

Things to do in Carleton-sur-Mer

• Mont-Saint-Joseph – The number one thing to do in Carleton-sur-Mer is to visit the lookout at Mont-Saint-Joseph! This regional park offers a ton of outdoor adventures including rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. You can even sleep on the mountain in a geodome! In fact, the lookout sits over 1800 feet above sea level. Here, you’ll find a long boardwalk and large terrace overlooking Chaleur Bay. Plus, on a clear day you can see all the way out to the Acadian coast of New Brunswick.
• Carleton-sur-Mer Lighthouse – At the end of a narrow peninsula sits a replica of the original 1900s lighthouse which stood there. The area, which is called Pointe Tracadigache, is the perfect spot to watch the sunset after a beautiful Quebec road trip itinerary.

What to Eat in Carleton-sur-Mer

• Boulangerie Pâtisserie La Mie Véritable – For a light meal or sweet desserts try this adorable café. A popular menu item is their ham and brie panini.
• Le Naufrageur – Microbrasserie – If you’re looking for a lively dinner with a few drinks, try this microbrewery. Plus, everyone raves about their pizza!

Where to Stay in Carleton-sur-Mer

• Motel Leblanc (budget) – This budget motel offers simple rooms right across from the water and is 5 minutes outside of town.
• Manoir Belle Plage (mid-range) – On the eastern edge of town you’ll find this l ovely beach hote l that has a restaurant. Rooms come with either mountain or ocean views too.

Map of the Best Ever Quebec Road Trip Itinerary

Additional Canada Resources You’ll Love

• Best Provinces to Live in Canada
• Best Places to Live in Canada
• Pros and Cons of Living in Canada
• Best Brunch in Montreal

There you have it! That just about wraps up this epic Quebec road trip itinerary!

Tell me, did your picks for the best scenic drives in quebec make the post if not then let me know in the comments below., and if you found this post useful, don’t forget to join our email list before pinning this post now so that you can read it again later..

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Ultimate Two Week Coastal Quebec Road Trip Itinerary

Thinking of visiting the coastal side of Québec and you only have two weeks to do it?

We have the perfect coastal Québec road trip itinerary for you, with an unbeatable mix of nature, history, culture and outdoor adventure.

Some of the most well known sites in the province are featured in this Québec road trip plus many more beyond the beaten path destinations you may have never heard of.

Easily adaptable and extendable, this Québec road trip averages around 180km of driving per day.

So there’s plenty of time for relaxation or fast paced adventure, no matter which you prefer! 

This Quebec Coastal road trip itinerary passes through the traditional territories of the Wolastoqiyik, Mi’gmaq, Innu, Wendake-Nionwentsïo and Wabanaki peoples.

Last updated March 2023

Planning a coastal Québec road trip

With thousands of kilometres of beautiful coastline, Québec has a lot to offer when it comes to scenic and adventurous road trips.

Indeed, you could easily travel and explore along Québec’s coastline for weeks (and we have).

For those on a more limited (or realistic) timeframe, however, I have put together this 2 week/14 day Québec road trip itinerary .

The route showcases the highlights of this region, including Québec City, Tadoussac, Saguenay, Kamouraska and the breathtaking Gaspé Peninsula. 

The following Québec road trip:

• Starts and ends in Montreal, completing a full loop
• Can be adapted to your own preferences and interests
• Is easily shortened if necessary on day 5 for a quicker coastal adventure
• Can be combined with other routes such as our East Coast Canada road trip itinerary

There are affiliate links in this post. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Coastal Québec Road Trip – 2 week / 14 day itinerary (2400km)

Read on for a day by day trip planning guide, including what to do in each location and accommodation suggestions.

The latter is based on our own experience as well as online research and personal recommendations. 

This coastal Quebec road trip itinerary is inspired by our independent travel experiences exploring the region and collaborations with Quebec Maritime .

Day 1 – Montreal to Québec City (255km)

Quite simply, Québec City is like nowhere else in Canada. This is likely because it is one of the oldest cities in Canada and is also the only walled city in North America.

The historical vibe and architecture of Vieux Québec (Old Québec) will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Europe.

Drive straight to Québec City from Montreal to make the most of your time in this historic place. 

Things to do in Québec City

Simply wandering around Quebec’s Old Town is the best part of any visit to Quebec. Here are my recommendations for places to visit and things to do in Québec City:

• Explore the lobby of the ever impressive Chateau Frontenac or take a one hour tour to see more
• Take the ferry to  Lévis across the water for the best views of Quebec City
• Walk along the 200 year old wooden Dufferin Terrasse next to the Chateau and take the steps up to the the Plains of Abraham
• Explore the  Citadelle de Québec , the largest British built fortress in North America
• Take a historical tour to learn more about the people and context of Vieux Québec
• Get the highest view of Quebec City at the Observatoire de la Capitale
• Take the stairs or funicular down to the  Petit Champlain area below the Chateau Frontenac
• Go on a free guided tour of Quebec’s regal Parliament Buildings
• View the stunning architectural and opulence of the 350+ year old Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
• Taste and browse local produce at the  Old Port Market

Where to stay in  Québec City

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac – Quebec City’s iconic castle-like hotel is one of the most photographed in the world

Hotel Terrasse Dufferin  (we stayed here) – Just across the street from the Frontenac, this hotel has similar views and location for a more affordable price

Hotel Manoir Morgan – Highly rated hotel located in the historic old town. Some rooms have views of the Chateau Frontenac

Day 2 – Québec City

Take an extra day to explore more of beautiful Quebec City. For a beyond the beaten path experience, consider taking a trip to one of Quebec’s vibrant outer neighbourhoods.

A food tour is a great way to explore hip and culturally diverse Saint Roch district, not far from Old Quebec. My highlight was definitely the mouthwatering Fromagerie des Grondines cheese Shop. 

Day 3 – Québec City to Tadoussac (214km)

After a two night city break in Québec City, it is time to head out into the more wilder areas of Québec. First stop is Tadoussac, one of the best places in the world for whale watching.

Sitting at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence and Saguenay rivers, the waters surrounding this tiny town are visited by as many as 13 different whale species. One of the most common whales to see is the majestic beluga. 

On the way to Tadoussac, take the time to stop at the powerful Montmorency Falls, just fifteen kilometres north of Quebec City. 

Things to do in Tadoussac

• Go on a whale watching Zodiac tour with AML Cruises and potentially see belugas, minke whales and humpbacks
• Kayak with whales on a tour with Mer et Monde
• Walk the short Sentier Pointe-de-l’Islet viewpoint trail from Tadoussac’s marina. This is a great spot to sea whales
• Learn more about the local whales at the  Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre
• Visit  Petite Chapelle , one of North America’s oldest wooden churches (it dates from 1747!)
• Have a drink or a bite to eat at the impressive Hotel Tadoussac
• Learn about Tadoussac’s history at the  Chauvin Trading Post, a replica of Canada’s first fur trading post

Where to stay in Tadoussac

Hotel Motel le Beluga (we stayed here!) – Great value option in quiet yet convenient Tadoussac location. The comfortable rooms are just 10 minutes walk from Tadoussac Bay. Some have balconies with views towards the ocean

Hotel Tadoussac – Iconic historic hotel overlooking Tadoussac Bay. Just a few minutes walk to everywhere downtown, including the wharf. On-site restaurant, bar, wellness centre, swimming pool, games room, tennis court and more

Auberge La Merveilleuse – This inn has an amazing waterfront location, close to everything but set back enough to be quiet too. Multiple room configurations are available, with the five bedroom house being ideal for larger families.

Day 4 – Tadoussac to Saguenay (126km)

Flowing from Lac Saint Jean, the Saguenay river becomes a magnificent fjord reaching depths of 300m or more.

Carved by glaciers, the fjord cliffs are as high as the water below is deep. With such unique biodiversity, Saguenay is an essential stop on any Quebec road trip. 

Things to do in Saguenay

• Go hiking in Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay
• Take a boat or kayak tour of the Saguenay fjord and spot whales, seals and seabirds
• Climb the stairs in the 21m high Pyramid of Ha! Ha! for views of the bay
• Visit what was once the world’s largest pulp mill – La Pulperie
• Take a step back in time at the Village Historique Val Jalbert , an authentic 1920’s pulp mill town
• Bike part of the 256km  Véloroute des Bleuets circuit
• Walk the boardwalk at  Chicoutimi’s Port Area
• Try the aerial adventure course and Via Ferrata at Parc Adventures Cap Jaseux

Where to stay in Saguenay

Gîte du Haut des Arbres – Spectacular location overlooking the fjord with modern rooms and swimming pool

OTL Gouverneur Saguenay – Comfortable and spacious rooms in hotel located close to Chicoutimi centre

Hotel Chicoutimi – Good value option in central Chicoutimi location. The hotel has many different room configurations, making it a good option for families

Day 5 – Saguenay

Fill your day with activities from the Day 4 list or consider these additional ideas – 

• Go biking, hiking or paddling in Parc de la Rivière-du-Moulin
• Check out the  Musée du Fjord and discover what lies beneath the ocean’s surface
• Go white water rafting  on the Shipshaw, Métabetchouane and Mistassibi rivers 
• Hike the peaks of Parc national des Monts Valin

Limited to a five day coastal Quebec road trip? This would be the time to head back to Montreal (5 hours, 460km).

Day 6 – Saguenay to Matane (390km)

Returning to the Saint Lawrence from Saguenay, make a quick stop at the scenic Cap de Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre . After (hopefully) spotting some whales, take the ferry from Les Escoumins to Trois-Pistoles.

After arrival, head north and consider these stops on the way to Matane:

• Admire the beautiful gardens at Les Jardins de Métis / Reford Gardens in Grand-Métis
• Choose from several day hiking options at coastal  Parc national du Bic . La Tour Cap-à-l’Orignal is one of the best short hikes on the Gaspé Peninsula
• Pointe-au-Père in Rimouski, home of one of Canada’s tallest lighthouses and the impressive HMCS Onondaga submarine (you can go inside!)

Looking for a longer adventure? Consider continuing further north along the Route des Baleines (Route 138) to Sept-Îles, Rivière-au-Tonnerre and the Mingan Archipelago

Things to do in Matane (and on the way)

• Try to spot whales from shore at the  Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre
• Experience the fascinating  Jardin des glaciers in Baie-Comeau where you can feel the 4km Laurentian ice sheet under your feet
• Walk on the wooden bridge over the powerfull falls at Parc de la Chûte de Sault-Au-Mouton
• Take a walk on the sandy beach at Matane, also the perfect place to watch the sunset
• Have a guided tour of Matane’s Lighthouse at  Musée maritime du Phare de Matane
• Search for moose at the Réserve faunique de Matane
• Admire the beauty of the gardens at Le jardin de Doris, a little horicultural oasis near Matane

Where to stay in Matane

Riotel Matane  (we stayed here) – Smart, waterfront hotel with restaurant. Fabulous views from most rooms of the St Lawrence. 

Auberge Bruine Océane – Quiet, comfortable and spacious B&B in Matane’s town centre. Some rooms have river views

Hotel Motel Belle Plage – Great value motel, close to ferry and overlooking the St Lawrence

Camping? Discover the best places to camp on the Gaspé Peninsula

Day 7 – Matane to Gaspésie National Park (125km)

Follow the coast to the pretty town of Sainte-Anne-Des-Monts before turning inland and gaining elevation to reach Parc national de la Gaspésie (Gaspésie National Park).

Offering a chance to explore the ‘spine’ of the Gaspé Peninsula, this park has fabulous alpine hiking opportunities.

Things to do in Gaspésie National Park

• Learn about the park at the  Interpretation and Visitors Centre
• Check and sign up for park warden led interpretive activities
• Rent a canoe, kayak, SUP or pedal boat at  Lake Cascapédia

Hiking is by far the most popular activity in Gaspésie National Park. Here are some trails to try:

• La Saillie (3.4km) – Steep but fairly easy trail to a lookout over the valley 
• La Chute-Saint-Anne and Belvédère de la Lucarne (3km loop) – Two easy trails featuring impressive waterfall and an observation tower
• Mont Albert trail (17km loop) – Difficult trail leading to to a huge summit plateau
• Mont Jacques Cartier (8.3km) – Rocky trail up tallest mountain in Southern Quebec (1268m) with chances to see rare caribou herd. Note that all hikers must take a bus to the trailhead

Where to stay in Gaspésie National Park area

Gîte du Mont-Albert – In the heart of Gaspésie National Park, this beautiful hotel is the perfect reward after a day of hiking. Heated swimming pool and on-site restaurant

Parc National de la Gaspésie has five vehicle accessible campgrounds. Camping spots can be reserved on the  Sépaq website . We stayed at Lac Cascapédia, a quiet campground on the shores of the lake.

The coastal town of Sainte-Anne-Des-Monts is a thirty minute drive to the core area of Gaspésie National Park. There are plenty of accommodation providers here. 

Hôtel & cie (we stayed here) – Centrally located renovated motel with surprisingly stylish interiors and on-site restaurant. Breakfast is included and delivered right to your room!

Day 8 – Gaspésie National Park 

A full day to explore the valleys, mountains and trails of Gaspésie National Park. For a change of scenery in the evening, consider staying in Sainte-Anne-Des-Monts overnight instead. 

Day 9 – Gaspésie National Park to Gaspé (210km)

The drive from Gaspésie National Park winds along the coast, passing dozens of small fishing villages, lighthouses and imposing Catholic churches.

Take the journey slowly, pausing to stop on windswept beaches, roadside waterfalls and to admire the breathtaking coastal views.

Breathe in the salty air and get on Gaspésie time. Consider making a detour to visit the 19th century Manoir Le Boutillier , now a National Historic Site of Canada.

Things to do in Gaspé

• Visit the granite Cross of Gaspé which commemorates the arrival of French explorers in Canada in 1534
• Learn a thing or two about the history of the local area at the modern Musée de la Gaspésie
• Explore nearby Forillon National Park (see Day 10 below for more details)
• Discover the culture of the local Mi’kmaq at the  Site d’Interpretation de la Culture Micmac de Gespeg
• Enjoy the golden sands of nearby  Plage Haldimand

Where to stay in Gaspé

Auberge Sous les Arbres (we stayed here) – Stunningly furnished rooms, some with balconies, walking distance from town’s main sights. Tasty breakfast with home baked treats

Hotel Plante – Great value option, especially as some rooms have kitchenette. Centrally located in Gaspé

Auberge La Petite École de Forillon  – Close to the entrance of Forillon National Park, this clean and spacious hostel is a good option if your budget is small

Day 10 – Gaspé

Forillon National Park is a 30 minute drive from Gaspé and is an ideal place to spend a full day.

This park has a real end-of-the-world feel about it and has a mix of majestic mountains, steep cliffs, pebbly beaches and meadows.

Highlights of Forillon National Park include:

• Cap-Gaspé Lighthouse trail (8km) – Easy and mostly flat coastal route passing ocean views, Cap-Gaspé lighthouse and ending at rugged Land’s End
• Mont-Saint-Alban trail (3.6km) – Short but sometimes steep trail to observation tower with panoramic views of Forillon from above
• Whale watching and scuba diving
• Heritage houses with costumed interpretive guides and exhibits
• Underground fortifications of Fort Peninsula
• Gorgeous picnic opportunities by the ocean 
• Beach fun and swimming at Penouille sand spit
• Wildlife watching – in one day, we saw one moose, six porcupines, eight black bears (including cubs) and a lynx

Day 11 – Gaspé to Percé (62km)

The distance between Gaspé and Percé is short but with both towns being distinctively different, it is worth spending significant time in each.

The short drive also means it is possible to fit more activities and adventure into your day! 

Percé is best known for Percé Rock, a huge formation jutting out from the St Lawrence River. It is a striking sight but not the only reason to spend time in this area. 

Things to do in Percé

• Walk the waterfront promenade and discover local studios, boutiques and cafes
• Hike the  Sentier des Belvédère trail to read a observation tower and suspended glass platform (fee required)
• Go sea kayaking and admire Percé Rock from a smaller boat
• Take a boat cruise around Percé Rock, Bonaventure Island and the Gaspé coastline
• Explore Bonaventure Island,  one of the world’s largest bird sanctuaries
• Visit the  Géoparc de Percé Tektonik interactive exhibit and learn more about the local geological wonders
• Hike to the Grotto and discover a cascading waterfall in a gorge 
• Go whale watching and hope to see fin whales, minke whales, humpback whales and more

Where to stay in Percé

Riotel Percé – This oceanside hotel is just a short walk from town. Some rooms offer spectacular uninterrupted views of Percé Rock. There is an on-site restaurant with patio

Hotel Motel Manoir de Percé – Modern motel property with beautifully and tastefully decorated rooms. Some rooms have views of Percé Rock

Camping de la Baie de Percé (we stayed here) – Located just behind the Percé Geoparc centre, this campground features traditional camping spots as well as comfortable ‘ready to camp’ glamping tents

Day 12 – Percé to Carleton-sur-mer (195km)

A long time vacation town, Carleton-sur-mer is a quiet and relaxing place to spend your final night on the Gaspé Peninsula.

There is plenty to do on the approach from Percé as well as around Carleton-sur-mer’s oceanfront location. 

Things to do around Carleton-sur-mer

• Explore the grounds and historic buildings of the Banc-de-Pêche-de-Paspébiac Historic Site and learn about the development of the fishing industry on Canada’s East coast
• Visit the  Musée Acadien in Bonaventure for an insight into the history and lives of Quebecois Acadians
• Go underground at the  Grotte Saint-Elzéar in Bonaventure, Quebec’s oldest caves
• View forty native animal species in five major ecosystems at the Bioparc in Bonaventure
• Hike or drive to the top of Mont Saint Joseph (555m) for beautiful views towards New Brunswick and the Bay of Chaleur
• Visit the Oratoire Notre-Dame-du-Mont-St-Joseph and admire the mosaics and stained glass windows
• Taste local beers at the Le Naufrageur microbrewery
• Walk Carleton-sur-mer’s promenade and take in the ocean panoramas

Where to stay in Carleton-Sur-Mer

Motel L’Abri – Good value motel rooms with small kitchens. Close to the water and highway

Hostellerie Baie Bleue (we stayed here) – Well appointed rooms with ocean views. On-site restaurant and heated pool

Manoir Belle Plage – Old style charm with modern facilities and furnishings. As with our other top picks, this hotel is very close to the ocean

Day 13 – Carleton-sur-mer to Kamouraska (415km)

The pretty village of Kamouraska in the Bas-Saint-Lawrence region is an ideal overnight stop to break up the long journey from the Gaspé Peninsula back to Montreal. 

There are two ways to reach Kamouraska from Carleton-sur-mer. The distance and time of both routes is approximately the same. 

If you do have extra time, I would suggest taking Highway 17 / Highway 2. Mount Carleton Provincial Park , home of the highest mountains in the Maritimes, is a relatively small detour.

Things to do in Kamouraska

• Explore the village of Kamourska on foot and visit some of the historical buildings including the courthouse, schoolhouse and church
• Take a self guided foodie tour through the village, stopping at the artisan bakers, chocolaterie, fish markets and cafes
• Browse local boutiques, artist workshops and the impressive Kamouraska Art Center
• Walk to the wharf and breathe in the salty air while admiring the views of the Saint Lawrence
• Discover the history and culture of the Bas-Saint-Lawrence region at the  Musée régional de Kamouraska
• Drive Highway 132 along the Saint Lawrence to discover more picture perfect historical villages
• Make a stop at Fromagerie Le Mouton blanc in La Pocatière and taste sheep cheeses made from the on-site farm

Where to stay in Kamouraska

Motel des Mariniers – Comfortable and quiet option, close to local restaurants. Rooms on the second floor have views of the St Lawrence river

Our our last visit to the area, we stayed in Saint-Jean-Port-Joli. This super cute village provides a good alternative to Kamourska. It is, however, a little further from Carleton-sur-mer.

Motel Blanche d’Haberville (we stayed here) – Well kept motel units within easy walking distance of the river and town

Day 14 – Kamourska to Montreal (396km)

It’s time for your coastal Québec road trip to end. Drive carefully back to Montreal and enjoy the rest of your time in Québec! 

Need to know tips and advice for Québec road trips

• The official language in Quebec is French. When travelling outside of the tourist centres of Montreal, Québec City, Tadoussac and Saguenay, it is more likely you will meet Quebecois who have limited English (if not, none)
• Brushing up on some French before you go on your Québec road trip is a good idea. Getting comfortable with the basics can go a long way – hello (bonjour), thank you (merci), please (s’il vous plait), I would like (je voudrais)
• Road signs in Québec are in French . Look for ‘centre-ville’ for directions to downtown areas. ‘Sortie’ is exit, and ‘ouest’ west
• It is illegal to turn right on red in Montreal. In other areas of Québec, turning right on red is legal unless specifically prohibited by a sign at the junction
• Slow down – life in coastal Québec is, by nature, slow. Summer is the busiest time but this still doesn’t mean you need to rush around and drive at high speeds. 
• Provincial Parks are referred to as national parks within Québec. So be careful not to get confused between Quebec’s provincial park system (Sépaq) and the Canadian national park system (Parks Canada)

Read Next: Magdalen Islands Travel Guide: The Best Things to Do, See & Eat

Essential items for any coastal Québec road trip

• Be sure to bring a couple of warm layers on your coastal Québec road trip. Even in the summer, breezes from the Atlantic can be cool, especially in the evening. We love to wear long sleeved merino wool tops ( like this one ) as the material helps regulate temperature, is easy to hand wash and packs down small
• Alongside insect repellent , it is also a good idea to bring or buy some kind of after bite lotion . Mosquitos are prevalent. If camping, I’d suggest a Thermacell repellent applicance or at least some mosquito coils to burn
• Depending on your interests and preferred road trip stops, you may want to consider purchasing an annual Sépaq pass for Québec’s provincial parks. This waives all daily access fees, helpful if you’re visiting multiple parks
• Some of the more remote cafes and restaurants on the Gaspe Peninsula will only accept cash.  Visiting Québec from the USA? It is best to have Canadian dollars – the vast majority of places will not accept American and those that do will offer an unfavourable exchange rate

Other Quebec posts you may find helpful:

10 Fast and Fun Gaspé Peninsula Hiking Trails, Québec 5 of the Most Underrated Parks in Quebec Finding Outdoor Adventure in the Gatineau Valley, Quebec Four Fun Ways to Go Whale Watching in Tadoussac, Quebec

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One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Tuesday 10th of September 2019

Good job with the itinerary. I actually lived in Quebec for a bit over 25 years and did almost exactly the same road trip about 10 years ago. Lots of beauty in Quebec (maybe not as much as BC but a different kind of beauty...)

Tuesday 24th of September 2019

Thanks Frank! You're absolutely right, Quebec has its own kind of beauty and is a wonderful place to explore. Glad to hear you've done this road trip before and can vouch for its awesomeness!

PRIVATE WALKING TOUR OF QUÉBEC CITY

• Sightseeing

INSIDER’S TIP: CHARMING CHARCUTERIE AT LE PIED BLEU

• Restaurants

GUIDED TOUR OF THE FAIRMONT LE CHÂTEAU FRONTENAC

• Historic Sites

INSIDER’S TIP: FIRESIDE OR AL FRESCO FARE AT LE LAPIN SAUTÉ

Insider’s tip: history at the musée de la civilisation, québec city history and nature private tour, insider’s tip: shopping at quartier petit champlain, insider’s tip: set a cultural course for île d’orléans, evening gourmet tour and five-course dinner in old québec, insider’s tip: fortified finery at la citadelle de québec, pilgrimage to the countryside, insider’s tip: pours with purpose at la korrigane, insider’s tip: boho vibes in saint-jean-baptiste, accommodation options.

AUBERGE SAINT-ANTOINE

QUÉBEC CITY, QUÉBEC

FAIRMONT LE CHÂTEAU FRONTENAC

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What Makes Quebec City the Best City in Canada?

This Island Just 15 Minutes Outside Quebec City Is the Perfect Wine- and Cider-filled Fall Getaway

Quebec City Travel Guide

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Tiny Footsteps Travel

Montreal + Quebec City Itinerary (2024)

Montreal and Quebec City are the two biggest cities in Quebec, with beautiful old towns, rich history and fun things to do, and are both highly worth visiting. This Montreal and Quebec City itinerary will help you see all of the key sights and not miss anything.

Montreal and Quebec City are very different from each other , and from the rest of Canada, which makes visiting them both interesting places to visit. They have great food, scenic beauty, and heritage buildings that date back 100s of years.

As an Ontarian, I’ve been to Quebec countless times and I adore both places- especially Quebec City, because of how different it is from anywhere else in North America.

You will need at least 5 days to see both Montreal and Quebec City (two days in each, plus one in between.) However, an extra day in either city would be beneficial and I’ll provide options for a 3rd day in case you have more time.

So, let’s jump into your Montreal + Quebec City itinerary below!

What you Need to Know about this Itinerary

✅   It starts in Montreal, and ends in Quebec City, but you could easily do it the other way around

✅   It can be done with or without a car. A car is helpful in both cities, but they are also both doable via public transit. I’ll provide options for both

✅   It can be done with all age groups. I specialize in family travel, but I’ll also be providing some add-ons for those looking for a little extra adventure.

2-Days in Montreal (+ Optional 3rd Day)

Where to Stay in Montreal

• Budget: Hotel St. Laurent Comfy and spacious hotel just a 5 minute walk from Old Montreal
• Mid-Range: Fairmont the Queen Elizabeth Known for its ‘John Lennon and Yoko Ono suite’, has a pool, breakfast and is well located downtown Montreal
• Luxury: The Ritz-Carleton One of the most luxurious hotels in Montreal, the Ritz-Carlton has an indoor pool, and a delicious breakfast

Day 1 in Montreal

1. explore old montreal.

Time needed: 2 hours +

Today will be a fun morning of walking around Old Montreal, exploring the heritage buildings, and Montreal’s incredible history.

Start your walk around Victoria Square (shown on the map below.)

From Victoria square, walk north on Saint-Paul Street (Rue St. Paul) which is the most famous street in Montreal. In the old days, it used to be the ‘main’ street in town. It’s lined with boutique stores, cafes and eateries.

I recommend starting south on Rue St. Paul and work your way north, so that at the end you can turn onto a street to bring you to the Notre Dame de Basilica de Montreal.

I highly recommend going inside the Notre Dame de Basilica (its open every morning from 9am.) The inside is really beautiful.

After the church, continue heading north towards Place Jacques Cartier.

After spending some time at the Place Jacques Cartier, walk towards Saint Laurent Boulevard which is a short walk from the square. On the way, you will pass the Montreal City Hall, a heritage building that you can take a photo of.

Saint Laurent Boulevard is a trendy, fashion area with a lot of colourful street art. Walk down the street, window shopping and consider what your plans for lunch are.

Another optional activity in this Old Montreal area along the river is to ride the Grand Roue de Montreal. The ferris wheel is a short, 5 minute walk from the Notre Dame Basilica. It’s the tallest ferris wheel in Canada at 196 feet or 60 metres, and a great way to get views of the river and the city from a bird’s eye view. Grab tickets for the ferris wheel on their website here .

2. Choice between Montreal Food Tour or Lunch in Old Town

Later in the morning or early afternoon, you’ll probably be getting hungry. I recommend choosing between doing a Montreal Food Tour, or grabbing lunch at a restaurant in Old Town.

Here’s more about each option:

Option #1: Montreal Food Tour

Time needed: 3 hours (offered hourly between 11am and 3pm)

Montreal is the foodie capital of Canada , so if you only do one food tour during this trip, it should be here. Montreal bagels are a staple, as well as poutine and Italian-inspired eats.

What I like about this tour is that they tell you in advance what you can expect to eat, plus there’s one ‘surprise dish.’ All ages are welcome.

If you want to do this tour, you’ll have to make your way over to the meeting point which is at 5170 Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Montréal. This is just further down the street where you ended off, but still another 30-minute walk.

You could walk there in 30 minutes if you’re up to it, or get there by taking the metro to the Saint-Laurent / Fairmount station (from there its a less than 2 minute walk.)

Book the Montreal Walking Food Tour here

Side note: I recommend making your way over to Boulevard Saint Laurent sometime during your stay in Montreal regardless, because it has beautiful and colourful street murals in the summertime which are worth seeing.

Option # 2: Lunch on Saint Laurent Boulevard

Time needed: It depends

If you decide that a food tour isn’t really your thing, then you have your pick of a variety of restaurants in Old Town. There are too many to name , the area is literally lined with great places to eat.

A few of my personal favourites are:

• SHAKER Cuisine & Mixologie St-Laurent (the food here is really different and unique, but still of the ‘comfort food’ variety) Menu here
• Restaurant Mechant Boeuf (means “mean steak” in English.) It’s a steakhouse, but it has vegetarian options too. See lunch menu here

3. Get views of Montreal from the top of Mont Royal

Time needed: Anywhere from 1 hour to 4 hours (depending on how you get up there, and how long you stay)

In the afternoon of day 1 in Montreal, you’re going to head up to Mont Royal to get a view of the city skyline. It’s a spectacular thing to see in all seasons.

Option # 1: Climb to the top

There are a few different paths to get to the top.

If you want as easy of a hike as possible, then this one is an easy option, at about 4 km/2.4 miles, and takes around 30 minutes if you take the easiest route. It’s a moderate hike, but the path is wide and mostly smooth; some paved and some dirt trail.

If you want a more challenging hike, then you will see other trail options – they’re all well marked and you’ll be able to choose the one for you.

See the Google street view of the entrance to the steps here.

Option # 2: Take a bus

The most common bus that people take to the top of Mont Royal is 11 Parc-du Mont-Royal / Ridgewood .

Option # 2: Drive

If you have a car, then driving up Mont Royal is an option. At peak times, it can be hard to get a parking place,

Regardless of how you choose to get to the top of Mont Royal, you will find a large viewing platform at the top and likely, several other tourists enjoying the views.

4. Evening in Montreal

You may be looking for some things to do in the evening in Montreal either today, or tomorrow (or both!) Here are some ideas:

• Ride the large ferris wheel on the harbour, if you didn’t do so already
• Visit the Underground City
• Visit La Ronde Amusement Park  on Helen’s Island (summer only)

Day 2 in Montreal:

1. head to the montreal biosphere.

It was hard to narrow down the best things to do in Montreal into two days, but the Montreal Biosphere was high on the priority list and the first thing I’d recommend doing on the morning of your second day.

It’s the largest in the world of its kind, at 249 ft in diameter and 203 ft high. It’s located on the island, so you can also get views of downtown Montréal from the other side of the river.

You can buy your tickets to the Biosphere in advance on their website here. You’ll also notice that there are a few other science museums; a planetarium, and insectarium and others. (Might be some ideas for a 3rd day in Montreal.)

You can either drive, or take transit to the Biosphere. They have a couple parking lots nearby, and you can also take public transit (take the subway to Jean-Drapeau station and the biosphere is just a short walk from there.

The biosphere is very cool to look at from the outside, but the inside is also an environmental science museum. Give yourself at least an hour, to 90 minutes to see the whole thing.

After that, it will be time to make your way back to mainland Montreal.

2. Head to Petite Italie (Little Italy)

The next stop on your second day is Little Italy. Head back to mainland Montreal via the bridge or the subway.

Either drive, bike, or take the subway to Jean-Talon or De Castelnau station. You will now be in the Little Italy area, which is a huge foodie neighbourhood.

3. Pop into the Jean-Talon Market

The Jean Talon is a famous historic market (and these days to be honest, – more of a tourist attraction than market) located in Little Italy.

It’s named after Jean Talon, a French settler from the 1600s who wanted to bring migrants to the area.

The other great thing about the Jean-Talon Market is that it’s in the centre of Little Italy (Petite Italy), and its open 7 days a week, year round. It’s become a popular attrction for a reason, so I recommend checking it out.

There are some food items in the market, and tons of restaurants in the area. There isn’t just Italian food – you can find Vietnamese, and many other ethnic foods. I recommend grabbing something to eat here.

3. Make your way over to Montreal Olympic Park

Take the metro to Pie-IX station (The ride from Little Italy will take approximately 40-45 minutes.)

There is so much to see and do in this little corner of Montreal, including:

• The Montreal Tower
• The Montreal Biodome
• The insectarium and the planetarium

There are parks, trails, and ponds. If you want to be outside and enjoy the views, you could simply walk around, soaking up the nature.

If you want to do another museum, then I’d highly recommend one of them if you haven’t had too much science for one day. (You can buy tickets from the same website where you bought the Biosphere tickets.)

Otherwise, you could visit the Montreal Olympic Park. At the time of writing, guided tours are closed. But, you can still visit – and even climb the tower (pictured above) to get a cool view from the top of the surrounding area!

(Optional) 3rd Day in Montreal

• Great museums: When you only have two days, its hard to prioritize a museum because then you don’t really see the city. But if you have a third day in Montreal (or if it rains on one of the first two days) then check out one of Montreal’s amazing museums.
• Canada’s largest cemetery . I know it sounds a bit sinister to check out a cemetery while you’re on vacation, but this cemetery is a popular tourist attraction and one of the most unique things to see in Montreal. Read about visiting here .
• Botanical Gardens (since the Botanical Gardens is located further north, you could also visit it on the way to Montreal, or out of Montreal on your way to Quebec City.)

Shoulder Day: Travelling from Montreal to Quebec City (or vice versa)

Quebec City and Montreal are roughly 255 km (158 miles) from each other

If you’re driving between Montreal and Quebec City

It takes about 2.5 hours to drive from one to the other, but there are two different routes you can take:

• The Trans Canada highway – Mostly boring, but faster. there are some great poutine places you can stop at along the way.
• The 40 highway – more scenic, but about 15-20 minutes slower. You can stop in Trois-Rivières, which is a nice little city

Public transit options between Montreal and Quebec City

If you’re not using a car, then your public transit options are:

• Taking the Via Rail train . You can choose between economy and business class. An economy train ticket from Montreal to Quebec City costs between $42 and $61 one-way, whereas a business class ticket is between $100-$200. Prices go up closer to your date of travel, so book soon on the ViaRail website.
• Take the bus with Orleans Express. It takes around 3.5 hours, and tickets are similar to the train. You can book your trip online

Pro Tip: Personally, I would go with the train. Via Rail has been around for a long time, and I’ve used it many times and never had a bad experience. It’s also quicker than the bus, for roughly the same price.

2 Days in Quebec City (+ Optional 3rd Day)

Where to Stay in Quebec City

• Budget: Auberge International de Quebec  A hostel in Old town, with dorms and private rooms
• Mid-Range: Addresse sur Grande-Allee Lofts . Comfortable Victorian building, just a short walk from Old Town, near the St. Louis gate
• Luxury: Chateau Frontenac , A beautiful castle hotel overlooking Old Town and the St. Lawrence River

Evening in Quebec City (on the day you arrive)

Depending on what time you get to Quebec City, you might have a few hours in the evening to do something before going to bed.

Here are some evening options in Quebec City:

• Simply explore lower Old Town by evening; the old buildings are still charming by night. (You can also take the funicular, which is open until 11pm)
• Do a Quebec City Ghost Walk
• Head to the Grande Allée (which is like Paris’s Champs Elysees in Quebec) for some bar food and a drink

Day 1 in Quebec City

The Old Town of Quebec City is sort of divided into two parts – the upper part, and the lower part (you need to take stairs, or the funicular to get down to the lower part.)

Overall, you could spend hours walking around both parts of Old Town. You can do it self-guided, but if you’re a history buff, you might want to do a tour with a local guide (offered daily, between 9:30 and 3:30pm) that can teach you about the history of Canada’s oldest settlement, which goes back to the 1600s.

If you don’t want to book a walking tour, then read below on how to explore Old Town on your own.

1. Walk through Upper Old Town

around an hour

Upper Old Town of Quebec City has charming streets to stroll through. There is great shopping, some medieval buildings, and great restaurants. (If you want to grab breakfast here there are some great places to do it – I recommend Cochon Dingue, or )

Here are the things to check out in Upper Old Town:

• Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec – the oldest stone church in Canada, built in the 1600s. I recommend going inside, its so beautiful. Doors are open from 7:30am to 4pm daily.
• The Chateau Frontenac (get lots of photos in front of it!)
• Dufferin Terrace which is the boardwalk in front of the Chateau Frontenac. From there, you can get views of the St. Lawrence River, and Levis on the other side of the river

2. Take the funicular down to Lower Old Town

You’ll find the funicular on Dufferin Terrace, right in front of Chateau Frontenac. It costs $5 cash to take the funicular to Lower Old Town.

No need to reserve the funicular – simply show up. Sometimes there’s a small line up, but it goes pretty fast as they can fit many people inside each vehicle.

You can also walk to the lower part of Old Town via a staircase, but you should take the funicular at least once for the experience.

It’s a quick, 2 minute ride, but you’re riding in a 120 year old structure.

3. Explore Lower Old Town

Time needed: around an hour

After you get out of the funicular, you’ll be in the lower part of Old Town.

When you first get off the funicular, you will be facing Rue Petit

The things to make sure you see in the lower part of Old Town are:

• Rue Petit Champlain
• Place Royale.
• Umbrella Alley (pictured above)

2. Have lunch

you may be ready for lunch, or dejeuner, as the French would call it. Since you’re down in Old Town, it makes most sense to grab something here.

On Rue Petit Champlain, you will find a Lapin Sauté, a café and an Italian place. There are more restaurants along Umbrella Alley. Most of the options are Quebecois food.

Pro Tip: Most restaurants in Quebec City take online reservations. I’d recommend this if you want to ensure you get to eat somewhere very specific. If you’re visiting in summer, you could also delay lunch and eat on the boat cruise (info below) instead

2. Take a boat cruise

Time needed: 90 minutes

If you’re in Quebec City in summer , then there are boat cruises in the St. Lawrence River.

You can get to the port pretty easily from the Lower part of Old town.

The cruises are 90 minutes and show you the Quebec City skyline, Montmorency Falls, and Ile d’Orléans.

You can choose between 2pm or 4pm. Pick whichever works best. If you’re a morning person, you may have seen all of old town and had lunch by 2pm. But if not – it might be closer to 4 by the time you’re ready for the cruise.

Check availability for the cruises here. Try to book in advance if your visit is in summer, as they do fill up.

There is a bistro menu on board that you can order lunch from (if you’d rather eat on the boat than in Old Town.)

If the cruises aren’t running

If you’re visiting Quebec City in winter, then the boat cruises won’t be running anymore, but you can take the ferry to Levis instead of a boat cruise. (In fact, you may choose the ferry regardless of the season.)

The ferry is cheap, and fast – it only costs $12 per person, and takes 10 minutes to reach Levis, on the other side of the river. So, if you’re not wild about being in a boat, then I’d recommend this option.

Ferries to Levis can be booked online, or on the spot. They leave every 12 minutes throughout the day.

After taking the ferry to Levis, you can explore the area for a little bit (which I’d recommend doing in the warmer months) but you can also just take hop directly heading on the ferry going straight back to Quebec City.

Many people do this, including us (when we visited in winter) because they just want to see the Quebec City skyline.

3. Getting dinner in Quebec

You may want to start thinking about some places to grab dinner. Quebec City is full of restaurants – there are more options in Upper Town than Lower town, simply because its bigger.

Check out my guides on family-friendly restaurants, and poutine places in the area too.

5. Evening activities in Quebec City

Before or after dinner, you may have energy for an evening activity before retiring back to your accommodation. Here are some ideas:

• Haunted Walk of Quebec City, which run in evenings at 8pm. I did this tour with a friend and it was fun to learn about Quebec City’s dark past. Book here
• Head to the Grande Allée, a large street in Upper Old Town, where there are lots of pubs, restaurants, live music and nightclubs.

Day 2 in Quebec City

1. spend the morning at montmorency falls.

After grabbing breakfast near your accommodation, make your way to Parc Montmorency, where you can see the beautiful Montmorency Falls.

If you drive, it will only take 15 minutes, and you should book your daily access in advance here . (You can choose parking only, or packages that include other things.)

But there are several other ways to get to Montmorency Falls:

• Taking an Uber
• Taking the bus
• Booking this tour (which will take you to Montmorency Falls and St. Anne de Beaupré cathedral)

Visiting Montmorency Falls will be a half-day affair. There is a lot to explore at Parc Montmorency, as its called.

There is a bridge that walks over the bridge, and various lookout points where you can get different lookouts of the falls. In the summer, there’s a tall staircase that can take you all the way down to the base of the falls.

Pro Tip: In the winter, many of the trails and lookouts are closed off, but you can still visit it.

In the summer, there’s a gondola you can ride from the bottom area back up to the top (which is what we did once when we visited in the summer)

2. Lunch at Manoir de Fontaine (optional)

While you’re at Montmorency Falls, I recommend going inside the Manoir de Fountain. They have a cute gift shop where you can find some Quebecois souvenirs.

You can also eat lunch at the Manoir. I ate there once and enjoyed it, the food is fresh and good. But, the menu is pretty limited if I’m honest – you can check it out, and book online here .

If you’re not wild about eating at the Manoir, then you can also wait until you’re back to Quebec City for more options.

If you have a car (and if you don’t eat lunch at the Manoir) then of course there are still plenty of options in Quebec City.

If you haven’t had a crepe yet, I recommend it – they’re great for lunch or dinner. My favourite creperie in Quebec City is Le Billig Creperie (in Upper Old Town) but there are many others.

4. Afternoon in Quebec – 2 options

Option # 1 musee de beaux arts & cartier avenue.

I recommend visiting the Musée de Beaux Arts, because you can see Quebec and indigenous art that is local to the area.

Musée de Beaux Arts a beautiful museum, and you could spend a couple hours wandering around. Visiting is also a bit of an ‘off the beaten path’ activity, since its about a 30 minute walk from lower Old Town.

We didn’t mind the walk at all (we even walked with our two kids) but if you don’t feel up to a walk at this time, then I’d recommend option # 2 instead.

The Musée de Beaux Arts has an amazing gift shop – we spent more money there than any other gift shop in Quebec. Great place to find Quebec and Canadian souvenirs.

If you do head up to Musée de Beaux Arts, then I recommend taking a walk down Cartier avenue afterwards. It’s famous for its colourful lamp streetlights, which have been designed with art by Quebecois artists!

There are many restaurants where you could grab dinner. One of my favourites in this area is Chez Victor Burger -they have a variety of burgers, and poutines.

Option # 2: Tour the Citadelle

The citadelle is

If you’re a history buff, then the Citadelle is fascinating. You get to explore the fortress that was built to protect Canada from an American invasion.

The only way to visit the Citadelle is to do a 1-hour guided tour, and there’s a museum you can visit self-guided after. Book your tour online

Optional 3rd day in Quebec City

You have done all the ‘musts.’ If you have time for a 3rd day in Quebec City, I do highly recommend it because there are so many things to do, depending on what you’re most interested in.

Here are the options for what to do on a 3rd day in Quebec City. (You could probably fit in 2 of these activities into one day.)

• Ile d’Orleans wine tour – great for foodies, and people who want a relaxing experience on a romantic holiday. Check availability here .
• Explore Levis, if you didn’t take the ferry the other day and did a boat cruise instead. Then, on a 3rd day I would take the ferry over and explore a bit more. See things to see and do in Levis here. Book walking tour here , or see the ideas
• Aquarium du Quebec – Quebec City’s Aquarium , its a large and impressive aquarium that has both outdoor and indoor enclosures. There are polar bears! Perfect for if you’re in Quebec City with kids ; our kids loved the Quebec Aquarium
• Musée de Civilizations – Quite awesome, especially if you like science, geology and history. Save money by booking your ticket online.
• Guided tour of the Citadelle . (Highly recommended, if you didn’t do it yesterday.) From there you can get this view:

Montreal and Quebec City Itinerary FAQ

Here are the most commonly asked questions about an itinerary of Quebec City and Montreal

How many days do you need in Montreal and Quebec City?

If you want to see both Montreal and Quebec City, then you need at least 5 days. (2 in each, plus one day in between.) I recommend doing 3 in each if you can (7 days in total) but it is up to you. Anytime between 5-7 days is perfect for exploring both Quebec City and Montreal.

What are the must see places between Montreal and Quebec City?

In between Montreal and Quebec City, some must-see places are Trois Rivieres,

Can I do a day trip from Montreal to Quebec City?

Yes, Quebec City can be seen on a day trip from Montreal. I’d recommend outright visiting there, but if you prefer a day trip then you can book this one which takes you to Old Quebec and to Montmorency Falls from Montreal.

Is the drive from Montreal to Quebec City pretty?

The drive between Montreal and Quebec City is somewhat scenic if you take highway 40. It’s slightly slower than the Trans Canada highway, but it allows you to see more along the way. The Trans Canada highway isn’t particular scenic, but its faster.

Final Thoughts on Quebec City and Montreal

I hope that this Quebec City and Montreal Itinerary has cut down on hours of your trip planning and made it easier to understand how to structure your trip. If you follow most of it, I’m sure you’ll see all the best things there are to see and have a great time.

Both of these cities will show you a lot of what is great about la belle province and allow you to see a great side of Canada. Bonne voyage!

• May 14, 2024

Tips for an affordable trip to Quebec

ABC News’ Ike Ejiochi shares how to take a road trip in Quebec, Canada, for less but still take in some amazing sights.

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With Extensive Planning, and Treats, 2,500 Show Dogs Descend on New York

The world’s top-ranked canines travel to the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show mostly by car and plane. They don’t exactly travel light.

To participate in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Vitellozzo, a French bulldog from Croatia, was driven to Budapest, flown to Warsaw and then to Chicago (for another show). The final leg was a road trip to New York. Vitellozzo slept most of the journey. Credit... Clark Hodgin for The New York Times

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By Christine Chung

Christine Chung pet a lot of dogs to report this story.

• Published May 13, 2024 Updated May 14, 2024

Follow live updates on the 2024 Westminster Dog Show.

The A-listers who traveled to New York this past weekend, gathering for the biggest event of their careers, arrived by car and driver, or on planes surrounded by entourages. They didn’t even carry their own passports, much less pack their kibble or squeaky toys.

Each and every one of them, though, is a very good dog.

Some 2,500 top-ranked dogs are in New York City to compete in this year’s Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show . Breed judging, the marquee event, will begin on Monday, while several hundred other dogs have already battled it out in events testing agility, obedience and the ability to dive the farthest off a dock.

Getting into the show takes years of training and effort. Getting to the show requires extensive organizing by owners and handlers, who plan hours- or days-long road or plane trips, pack thousands of dollars worth of gear — grooming tables, industrial-strength hair dryers, leashes, collars, toys, kibble and more — and pray that neither delays nor cancellations disrupt their itineraries.

Treats are nonnegotiable.

“I try to stock up on healthy, single-ingredient treats such as freeze-dried duck or freeze-dried liver,” said Shell Lewis, 71, who came to New York with a Russell terrier and a Cairn terrier. On show days, however, her dogs receive “something special and high value.”

“It involves a drive-through McDonald’s to pick up two sausage biscuits — I eat the biscuits, they get the sausage,” she said.

Here’s how a few show dogs, and their entourages, traveled to Westminster.

Taking to the road

In the United States, accumulating titles at local, regional and national dog competitions require constant driving, with long journeys the norm. Most dogs, their trainers say, are used to the road.

Ms. Lewis drove 14 hours from Geneva, Ill., for Spangle, her 2-year-old Russell terrier, to compete in the agility event (Alas, Spangle was knocked out in the preliminaries.) Ms. Lewis also brought along Nora, her 7-year-old Cairn terrier.

“They haven’t learned to drive yet,” said Ms. Lewis, “but they are excellent travelers.”

Krysthel Moore and Quinnzel, her Border collie, who with a 15-foot jump made it to the finals in dock diving, drove eight hours from their home in Quebec. Quinnzel snoozed most of it, Ms. Moore, 40, said.

Quinnzel barely notices a change in surroundings, Ms. Moore added. “She doesn’t care where we are, she just likes to be close with me.”

Some attendees car-pooled to the show. Jenni Nieft and Kris Dunlap, who met at a dog show three years ago, drove from Wyoming for more than two days with Rowan, an 85-pound Bracco Italiano, and 52-pound Keeva, a Weimaraner. Both dogs will compete in breed judging on Tuesday.

“They start young, they’re crate-trained, they just get used to it,” said Ms. Nieft, 53, who added that on road trips, exercise and bathroom breaks are crucial. “We gear the trip around their comfort.”

Driving was the only transit option: Some dogs, like Rowan, are too big to fly, as commercial airlines have limits on weight and carrier size.

The dogs don’t travel light, as Jamie Goodrich, 41, elaborated. Traveling from Central Square, N.Y., north of Syracuse, she packed her 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan with two crates, two folding chairs, three gallons of water, emergency kits for both dogs and humans, two suitcases of human clothes, three leashes, days of kibble, grooming equipment — various brushes, clippers, a water mister, a table, scissors — and an electric fan.

“Oh, and the dog,” she said of Aero, her Akita who will compete in breed judging on Tuesday. (The fan keeps Aero from overheating backstage.)

Traveling by plane

Other dogs flew to New York, which required compiling myriad documents, getting vaccination shots in order, and fielding a minefield of varying airline policies and restrictions on breed and weight.

Janice Hayes, a 42-year-old professional handler from Palm Springs, Calif., flies regularly to show dogs. Buddy Holly, a petit basset griffon Vendéen, won the top prize at last year’s Westminster (“He has more miles than all of us,” Ms. Hayes said).

Buddy Holly is now retired, but made the trip again this year to bask in his final moments as reigning champion and to accompany three other show dogs. Britney and Spotify, also petit basset griffon Vendéens, are being shown, as is Hayden, a Cavalier King Charles spaniel.

Because of their sizes, the three petit basset griffon Vendéens fly in crates and in the luggage hold. Hayden flew in the cabin.

Getting to the airport hours in advance is one of Ms. Hayes’s travel strategies, as is booking a seat on the side of the plane overlooking the plane’s hold — watching the dogs being loaded offers welcomed reassurance that the dogs too are en route.

Dozens of dogs traveled from abroad to compete in this year’s show. Anel Vazquez Franchini and her dog Khaleesi, a 5-year-old bearded collie, flew from Mexico City.

“We don’t have a lot of bearded collies here. It’s easy to win when you don't have competition,” said Ms. Vasquez Franchini of Mexico’s dog shows. The Westminster show, she said, is a coveted chance for Khaleesi — or Kaly, for short — to really prove herself.

The requirements for animals to travel internationally differ by country and can change frequently. Beginning in August, dogs entering the United States must be microchipped and be vaccinated against rabies.

Dogs living within the European Union who wish to travel internationally — or whose humans make that decision for them — must have their own pet passport . This document, issued by veterinarians, contains microchip registration, vaccine history and ownership information. It is mandatory for re-entry into the E.U.

Vitellozzo, a 2-year-old French bulldog living in Croatia with his handler, Valentina Zupan, has such a passport. He’s a seasoned international traveler — this is his second time in the United States.

While flying, Vitellozzo doesn’t need tranquilizers or other medication, said Ms. Zupan, 32. His crate fits under the airplane seat and he slept for most of their journey, which included driving to Budapest, flying to Warsaw, then to Chicago for another show, and then driving to New York.

Sharing rooms and beds

Hosting the dogs and their humans overnight are the hotels closest to the show venue, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

“Big dogs, small dogs, fancy dogs, regular dogs, it’s a lot,” said Raquan Williams, a front-desk clerk at the sold-out Four Points by Sheraton in Flushing. “We love it.”

In addition to nightly rates over $200, hotels generally charge a one-time pet fee that can run more than $100. Most Westminster handlers and owners share rooms with their dogs.

“My dogs take up a whole bed. I am lucky if I get to sleep at the top,” said Patty Berkovitz, 69, who with her partner Jack Florek, and two Irish Wolfhounds, Rowan and Brody, are staying at Hilton Garden Inn in Long Island City. Rowan and Brody will compete — against each other — in breed judging. All four creatures are in one room, and each of the dogs weighs more than 160 pounds.

With such large bedfellows, Mr. Florek, 71, joked that the key strategy was getting into bed before the dogs, something he neglected to do Friday night.

“I was the little spoon,” he said.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of a photo caption with this article misidentified two terriers. Spangle, a Russell terrier, is pictured on the right, not left. Nora, a Cairn terrier, is on the left.

How we handle corrections

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Inside the Westminster Dog Show

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Up Close and Personal:  The Westminster Dog Show is a flurry of activity, but stopping to take a close look reveals what makes breeds unique .

Behind the Curtain:  We spent the leadup to the final event at the 2020 event backstage at Westminster. This is what we saw .

Becoming a Judge:  For these canine experts, an invitation to pick the Westminster winners is an honor — and a serious responsibility. Here’s what it takes to do the job .

Quiz:  Do dogs really look like their owners? Put the theory to the test by trying to guess which prize pup belongs to which human .

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• 5 Days in Québec City in Winter

Vacationing in the Québec City area for five days? The city has so much to offer in winter. Here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most of your stay.

• Enjoy Old Québec's Fairy-Tale Atmosphere

Day 1 Enjoy Old Québec's Fairy-Tale Atmosphere

Guided Tour of Old Québec

Get your bearings—and an introduction to the city’s rich history—by taking a  guided tour  of Old Québec. 

Québec-Lévis Ferry

Catch the  ferry to Lévis for amazing views of Québec City and the Château Frontenac. The sound of river ice scraping against the ship’s hull is especially striking. Back on terra firma, enjoy some of the  best hot chocolate you’ve ever tasted .

Petit-Champlain

Wander through the enchanting  Petit-Champlain and Place-Royale  neighbourhoods, taking in the delightful winter decorations. Keep an eye out for the many architectural details that point to Québec City’s French and British past.

After working up an appetite, you’ll no doubt be ready to try some of the  traditional Québec cuisine  available at specialty restaurants in town.

• Experience Winter Like a Local

Day 2 Experience Winter Like a Local

Montmorency Waterfalls Park

Head to  Montmorency Falls Park  to walk and admire the winter landscape. The ice-bound cliffs bordering the falls are popular with daredevil climbers, so keep your eyes peeled. 

Place D'Youville Ice Rink

Lace up a pair of skates and soak up the atmosphere—and great Québec music—at the outdoor rink in Place D'Youville .

Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide

Experience a thrilling 130-year-old winter tradition and  toboggan down the slide at Dufferin Terrace . 

After you’ve hung up your skates for the night, treat yourself at one of Old Québec's gourmet restaurants  or savour some delectable  French cuisine  at a friendly neighbourhood bistro.

• Embrace your Inner Child at the Greatest Winter Playground

Day 3 Embrace your Inner Child at the Greatest Winter Playground

A winter trip to Québec City just wouldn’t be the same without a visit to North America’s one and only  Ice Hotel . This ephemeral architectural masterpiece is redesigned every year. Don’t miss the unique sculptures and incredible décor.

Village Vacances Valcartier

While you’re there, have a blast at  Village Vacances Valcartier . With 35 slides, it’s the largest winter playground in North America. Or maybe you’d rather hit the waterslides at Bora Park, Québec’s largest indoor waterpark.

In the evening, sample a beer or two at one of the many  local craft breweries  or finish up your evening with some  live music  at a popular local venue.

• Get into the Great Outdoors

Day 4 Get into the Great Outdoors

Jacques-Cartier National Park

Strap on your snowshoes and head out to explore  Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier , one of Québec’s most breathtaking glacial valleys. With 11 trails totalling over 75 kilometres, the park serves up incredible scenery and lofty plateaus that overlook the frozen river.

Sibéria Spa

On your way back to town, discover the true meaning of relaxation at Sibéria Nordic Spa .

• Meet the First Nations

Day 5 Meet the First Nations

Don’t pass up the opportunity to visit  Wendake  and the Traditional Huron site Onhoüa Chetek8e, the most authentic recreation of a Québec Aboriginal village.

Be also amazed by  Onhwa' Lumina , an immersive multimedia forest experience inspired by Huron-Wendat culture. It is the only immersive multimedia experience of its kind to be open in winter in Québec.

You can’t go home without getting a taste of Québec’s most famous dish— poutine !

Remember, when you’re exploring Old Québec and enjoying the region’s many outdoor events, be sure to  dress appropriately for your activity —and for the weather!

Add the places mentioned in this article to your Google Maps so you'll have them handy during your trip.

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L'Oasis du Port de Québec

Base de plein air de Sainte-Foy

Baie de Beauport

Fromagerie Ferme Audet - Quartier Petit Champlain

Vinaigrerie - Distillerie - Ferme Du Capitaine

Le Grand Marché de Québec

Passe migratoire à saumon de Cap-Santé

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