famous quebec tourist

15 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Québec City

Written by Lura Seavey and Lana Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The only walled city in North America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site , French-speaking Québec City has a strategic location atop steep cliffs that overlook the St. Lawrence River. Founded in 1608 as a fur trading colony at present-day Place Royale, it quickly became an administrative center and today is the capital of Québec Province and one of the most beautiful cities in Canada .

The Upper Town , also known as Haute-Village, was originally developed for its military advantage and contains the defensive Citadel, as well as some of the city's most iconic landmarks, like the Château Frontenac and City Fortifications.

The Lower Town (or Basse-Ville) is where the original settlement was located and is known for its picturesque, narrow streets and historic, stone buildings. This is where you'll find Place Royale and the Quartier Petit Champlain. Sets of stairs and a number of steep streets lead down from the Upper Town to the Lower Town, making the entire area easy to explore on foot. At the base is the St. Lawrence River, making the setting that much more picturesque.

Along here is access to the Québec-Levis Ferry at Vieux Port (Old Port), and there are many tourist attractions, including the Musée de la Civilization. The upper and lower districts are connected by winding streets, a few steep staircases, and the funiculaire.

Plan your next getaway with our list of the best tourist attractions in Québec City.

Wander through Place Royale

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This is tourist central in Québec, both for the history and the modern day ambience that comes with the restaurants, patios, and shops that now fill the historic structures.

Place Royale stands on the site of Québec's actual foundation, the spot where, in 1608, Samuel de Champlain erected a fur trading post that soon grew into the capital of French America. Named in honor of Louis XIV whose bust adorns it, Place Royale is the largest surviving ensemble of 17th- and 18th-century buildings in North America .

The pretty stone church, Notre-Dame des Victoires faces a cobbled square, along with Maison Chevalier of the Musée de la Civilisation . Adjacent to Place Royale, facing out over the river and encircled by stout walls and palisades, the little Batterie Royale was constructed in 1691.

In summer, the area is home to outdoor dining areas. In winter, the snow transforms the old streets and stone buildings into a postcard-perfect scene. This is a beautiful area to wander through in the day or evening and at any time of year.

Thrusting upwards from the west and facing the St. Lawrence River, Cap Diamant reaches a height of 100 meters and commands an extensive and varied panorama. Sitting atop this is Québec's star-shaped Citadel, a massive fortress protected by thick walls, ramparts, and ditches that was built in 1832. Still an active military post, the Citadel is used as military quarters for generals, officers, and servicemen, as well as the summer residence of the Governor General of Canada.

This is also the headquarters of the 22nd Canadian Regiment, which formed at the beginning of the First World War and boasts a distinguished record, including action at the Battle of the Somme and, much later, in the Korean War.

Summer visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony each morning, and the military museum, located in the mid-18th-century powder magazine in the southern corner of the Citadel, is open year-round.

From the far end of the boardwalk in front on the Château Frontenac, a set of stairs leads up to the Citadel and the Plains of Abraham.

Address: 1 Côte de la Citadelle, Québec City

Official site: http://www.lacitadelle.qc.ca

Outside the city walls, to the west of the Citadel, stretches the green expanse known as the Plains of Abraham (Champs de Bataille), where in 1759 the British, led by General Wolfe, fought the French under Montcalm and won. Exhibits retell the tumultuous history of how Québec City resisted and then fell to the British.

The park is also home to the remains of two Martello towers , later additions to Québec's fortifications. Begun in the late 1930s, the Joan of Arc Garden designed by Louis Perron has a fabulous display of flowers from spring until fall.

Families visiting with children will find interactive exhibits at the museum, which encourage younger visitors to engage with history, and young children will have fun with the family "treasure hunt," which encourages exploration and discovery within the park.

Address: 835 Avenue Wilfrid-Laurier, Québec City

Official site: http://www.ccbn-nbc.gc.ca

Once the bustling capital of New France, the Quartier Petit Champlain is arguably the most beautiful area of the city. Wandering the narrow streets that lace between the historic buildings makes you feel like you are in the heart of an old European City.

The stone structures that line the pedestrian-only streets now house a wide variety of shops, services, and restaurants. This the perfect place to visit for strolling and meandering, and it's a truly lovely area year-round.

Tourists will find artisan boutiques, Québec-cuisine restaurants and bistros, art galleries, and a generous assortment of sweets shops offering everything from handcrafted fudge and nougat to a stylish Crêperie. Clothing boutiques here offer unique items for sale, from stores that offer only alpaca products to those showing the latest trends.

Photographers will also find interesting sites in the Quartier Petit-Champlain. The umbrella-covered lane (Rue du Cul de Sac) offers a colorful spectacle, as well as some respite from the sun or rain. While you're here, pop into La Fudgerie for a treat. Watch for the large trompe-l'oeil mural (Fresque du Petit-Champlain) at the far end of rue du Petit-Champlain, that gives a glimpse into the city's history.

Official site: http://www.quartierpetitchamplain.com

The Musée de la civilisation in Québec City is a three-part institution that delves into the many facets of human history and the establishment of French America, with the main museum located in Basse-Ville near the Old Port . Built to designs by the well-known architect Moshe Safdie, the central museum is of great architectural interest. The permanent collection draws from civilizations around the world, as well as exploring the Québec experience.

The Musée de l'Amérique Francophone (Museum of French America) is housed in the historic Séminaire de Québec in Upper Town . As the name suggests, the museum deals with all aspects of the history of the French in North America.

The Musée de la civilisation also has exhibits at Place Royale , where Samuel de Champlain founded Québec, the first permanent French settlement in North America.

Address: 85 Rue Dalhousie, Québec City

Official site: https://www.mcq.org/fr/

Constructed for the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1894, the grand Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is now one of the city's most prominent landmarks and esteemed hotels. This historic property can be seen from miles away and is especially impressive at night.

In front of the hotel, Terrasse Dufferin affords stunning views northwards to the Laurentians, and the Promenade des Gouverneurs leads southwards toward the Citadel and Plains of Abraham. This elevated vantage was the original site of Fort St.-Louis, the governor's residence in colonial times. Tourists can see the ruins underneath the promenade.

Château Frontenac is also historically significant for the Québec Conference in August 1943, where the Allied Powers - Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt, William L. M. King, Vice-Admiral Lord Mountbatten, the U.S. Chief of Staff, General George C. Marshall, and others - laid preparations for the D-Day landings in Normandy (June 6th 1944).

Address: 1 Rue des Carrières, Québec City

The spaciously laid out district, immediately southwest of the old Upper Town, is the seat of Québec's provincial government. The Parliament, completed in 1877 but later extended, could have been modeled on any number of Parisian public buildings. The Salle de l'Assemblée Nationale (National Assembly) and Salle du Conseil Législatif (Legislative Council) are open to the public. Both are fine old chambers, sumptuously furnished. Tickets should be obtained in advance.

Nearby, find the Grand Théâtre (a venue for plays, concerts, and symphony performances) as well as the large Palais des Congrès shopping and entertainment complex.

Address: 1045 Rue des Parlementaires, Québec City

Sainte Anne is the patron saint of Québec and is credited with many miracles of healing the sick and disabled. Located northeast of Québec in Beaupre, this stunning Catholic basilica is a destination for half a million pilgrims each year. The present-day church dates to 1926, but the first chapel was built here in the 17th century.

Another famous Catholic basilica is the Cathedrale Notre-Dame-de-Quebec, designed by the architect Baillairgé and completed in 1844. The interior of Notre-Dame de Québec is very impressive with a beautiful altar, Episcopal canopy, and stained-glass windows.

Address: 10018 Chemin Royale, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, Quebec City

Atop the Marie-Guyart Building, this 360-degree observatory provides more than just a bird's-eye view of the city from the 31st floor. Interactive exhibits introduce how Québec City developed and grew over the centuries, with a kids-height section designed just for little ones. The panorama extends beyond the old walled city to Levis, the St. Lawrence, and Île d'Orléans.

You can also get excellent views of the city from the Funicular , Québec City's solution to its extremely hilly geography. The funicular runs from Quartier Petit-Champlain in the lower town to Château Frontenac in upper town to save weary travelers from steep staircases. It has been transporting passengers at a staggering 45-degree angle since 1879, most recently updated in 1998 with glass-walled elevator carriages.

Address: 1037 de la Chevrotière, Québec City

Official site: http://www.observatoire-capitale.com

In the more than 300 years of its history, Québec has come to possess a variety of fortifications, all of which can be explored on an hour-long circular walk. The bastions, walls, towers, gates, and countless old cannon show how well the former French colony was protected. Completed in 1832, the four and a half kilometers of defensive ramparts on the west flank of the Old City were constructed of granite and sand, the only fortifications of this kind in North America. Numerous pieces of weaponry are a constant reminder of Québec's troubled past.

The 19th century Old Port (Vieux Port) in Québec is a national historic site and was once a hive of commercial activity centered on Bassin Louise. The 19th century is brought vividly to life again in the Center d'Interprétation and through the visually stunning projections and soundtrack of the Image Mill (Le Moulin à images) during summer. Also on the waterfront, the daily Marché du Vieux-Port is a public market with everything from local farm produce to bicycle rentals.

This ferry service provides a practical connection between Québec City and Levis, just across the St. Lawrence River. This quick crossing is also an inexpensive way to do some sightseeing with its views of the city skyline. If you hop aboard at dusk, you can see lights illuminate Château Frontenac , the Price Building, and other historic structures. The waterfront station is on the river in Lower Town , a short walk from Quartier Petit-Champlain and Place Royale .

Official site: https://traversiers.com/en/our-ferries/quebec-city-levis-ferry/schedule

Beyond the city walls, Grande Allée forms the spine of the city. The district near Parliament Hill is of greatest interest to tourists. Here, a bevy of restaurants, patios, and entertainment venues bring local and visiting crowds. The street's grandiose 19th-century buildings were once home to the city's upper class. Other Québec City attractions on Grande Allée include the Grande Allée Drill Hall, Battlefields Park, and the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec .

Québec's two-week winter celebration, Carnaval de Québec, is held amid the snow and ice of late January and early February. The first Carnaval was held in 1894, and since 1955, it has been an annual tradition led by a giant snowman mascot named Bonhomme Carnaval. His home base is a massive castle made of ice that is covered in original artwork each day by Québec's best graffiti artists.

Two snow sculpting competitions, the Canadian National and International Snow Sculpting Contest, are held at the Plains of Abraham , where you can watch the artists work and admire the results as they are judged. Traditional events include dogsled races; parades; dancing; sledding; skating; and even snow swimming, where some of the city's braver residents wear only bathing suits while playing in a snow hill.

Many of the things to do here are free and open to the public, while others require the purchase of a pass that allows entry to the rest of the events.

Official site: https://carnaval.qc.ca/

Spanning the St. Lawrence River at a slight narrows, the massive iron frame of the Pont de Québec became familiar to the world even before its completion. During construction, between 1899 and 1917, two serious accidents occurred in which more than 80 workmen lost their lives.

The Pierre Laporte Bridge twins the Pont de Québec. It is named for one of Québec's former Vice-Premier's, Pierre Laporte, who was killed during the famous October Crisis. At the time it was built, in 1970, it was the longest suspension bridge in Canada with a span of 1,040 meters.

Most handy to the tourist attractions are hotels in Old Quebec, between the Chateau Frontenac and the Citadel or in the lower Basse-Ville along the river. Shops, restaurants, cafés, and historic sights are concentrated in this fairly compact area, with a funicular to save climbing the steep hill that separates the upper and lower neighborhoods. Here are some highly rated hotels in Quebec's Old Town:

Luxury Hotels :

• A Quebec landmark at the epicenter of the Old Town and a prime tourist attraction itself, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac has a rich history, along with elegant public rooms and magnificent views.
• Almost directly below in the riverside Basse-Ville, Auberge Saint-Antoine displays historic artifacts in its stunning public areas and guest rooms, so it's like staying in a museum.
• Right next to the Parliament Building and gates to the Old Town, Hilton Quebec has an indoor/outdoor pool, spectacular views, and is a short walk from all the main attractions.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Art Deco elegance and style mark the Hotel Manoir Victoria , which also offers a pool and a superb restaurant in the pedestrianized zone of quaint streets and boutiques.
• In the historic Basse-Ville, Le Saint-Pierre Auberge Distinctive is a few steps from the Museum of Civilization.
• Near Parliament and the best shopping streets, right by the Old Town walls, Quebec City Marriott Downtown has a good fitness center.

Budget Hotels:

• Maison du Fort is one of a row of historic stone homes along Rue St. Genevieve that have been converted into small hotels.
• In the same neighborhood, on a picturesque street near the Citadel, Chateau Fleur de Lys - L'HOTEL gives guests warm personal attention.
• Only a block from the Citadel, Le Chateau de Pierre is in another converted stone house.
• Sightseeing by Bus : If you want to see some of the city's top attractions in a short amount of time, the Quebec City Sightseeing Tour is a great option. This two-hour excursion in a comfortable motorcoach takes you around the city's top sites, such as Old Québec, the Plains of Abraham, and Place Royale. Along the way, you'll hear stories about the city's culture and history from an experienced guide.
• Walking Tour : Exploring on foot is a great way to soak up the European feel of Old Québec City. The Quebec City Walking Tour takes you down the narrow streets of the Upper and Lower Town to see historic attractions such as the Fortifications of Québec, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, and the Citadelle of Québec. As you stroll down the narrow streets, the experienced guide will share fascinating stories about the city's past.
• Whale Watching Tour : Tourists who would like to have a change of pace will enjoy an educational Whale Watch where you will learn about the Charlevoix region's marine life. This full-day tour picks up and drops off passengers in downtown Québec City, with a stop in Laiterie Charlevoix on the trip to and from the port at Baie-Ste-Catherine. Guests have the choice of riding on a large observation boat (three-hour tour) or a smaller zodiac (2.5-hour tour), both of which include narration by a naturalist.
• Day Trip : A perfect way to visit some of the top sites just outside the city is the Half-Day Trip to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré from Quebec . This guided tour not only visits one of the province's most lovely churches but also the stunning Montmorency Falls, which is more than 50 percent taller than Niagara Falls. There are also several stops along the way, including treats like the Chez Marie bread oven and Chocolaterie de l'Ile d'Orléans and the Cuivres D'Art Albert Gilles museum.

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Quebec City   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Preserved Light Photography | Getty Images

18 Best Things To Do in Quebec City

If you're mesmerized by towering fortresses and lavish castles, you'll be more than satisfied just wandering the ancient cobblestone streets of  Old Québec . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the only walled city north of Mexico. Inside its

• All Things To Do

Old Québec (Vieux-Québec) Old Québec (Vieux-Québec) free

Clustered around the city's port on the banks of the St. Lawrence River are the quaint stone buildings and narrow, winding streets of Old Québec. This historic neighborhood (and UNESCO World Heritage Site) houses some of the city's most notable attractions, including the  Citadel , Quartier Petit-Champlain  and  Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral . Just make sure you give yourself plenty of time here: You'll find it difficult to resist popping into one of Old Québec's artisan shops or stopping to warm up with an aromatic cup of coffee at one of the many charming cafes.

Many Québec City visitors cite the neighborhood's atmosphere as the primary draw, with many saying it feels just like being in Europe thanks to its cobblestone streets, stunning architecture and friendly locals.

Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency) Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency)

Sitting about 9 miles northeast of Old Québec along the St. Lawrence River, Montmorency Falls Park attracts nature lovers and sightseers alike with its 272-foot waterfall. In case you can't imagine that, Montmorency Falls is one-and-a-half times taller than Niagara Falls. Although warmer summertime temperatures make a Montmorency visit much more comfortable, some travelers recommend stopping by in the winter to take in the natural beauty without the crowds.

There are a variety of activities at the park, including hiking trails, playgrounds, bike paths and a double zip line. From the top of the cliff, the zip line allows two people to simultaneously cross the cove of the falls (nearly 1,000 feet) to the La Baronne viewpoint. In the winter, snowshoeing and ice climbing are popular activities here. 

Terrasse Dufferin Terrasse Dufferin

Overlooking  Old Québec  from its perch just below the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Terrasse Dufferin offers spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River. Formerly a military fortification, this public boardwalk still houses historic cannons. The atmosphere has changed dramatically since Terrasse Dufferin's original construction in 1838; today – especially if you visit during the summer – you're bound to run into street performers and artists as you stroll along. Previous visitors also recommended spending some time here during the winter, when there's an ice toboggan to ride. 

To learn about the history of Terrasse Dufferin (and the rest of the fortifications of this Québec National Historic Site), consider tagging along on a guided tour. Tours are offered every day from mid-May to the beginning of September for around CA$19 (about $14). Tour times vary depending on the day and the language in which the tour is offered. 

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Place-Royale Place-Royale free

To the unknowing eye, this small section in  Old Québec  may just seem like a pretty place to shop or to grab a cup of coffee. But it is so much more than that: Place-Royale is widely considered to be the birthplace of the French colony and French-North America. During the 17th and 18th centuries, this area of Old Québec acted as the French colony's center of business and industry, supporting a thriving marketplace and housing many wealthy merchants. While exploring this quaint area, you'll come across several notable tributes to its French Colonial past, including a striking bust of Louis XIV (one of France's most famous kings), the Église Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, the oldest stone church in North America, as well as the Fresque des Québécois, which illustrates 400 years of the city's history.

Recent visitors call the area charming and unique and recommend spending time wandering around to take in the sights.

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral free

Although the church itself has been rebuilt several times, the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral has stood on the same spot in the heart of  Old Québec  since 1647, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in North America. The exterior may seem a bit dull (especially compared to the  Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica  just northeast of town), but the bold neo-Baroque interior is breathtaking. Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Catherdal is gilded in shimmering gold leaf, historical religious paintings and treasures that date back to the French-colonial period.

Many recent travelers recommended visiting Notre-Dame during Mass, while others suggest stopping in as you stroll around Old Québec. During the summer months, there are volunteer guides available to answer any questions you may have, but you can also download a guide to your smartphone, according to recent visitors. Many were in awe of the cathedral, comparing its interiors to the ornate churches found throughout Europe.   

The Citadel (La Citadelle) The Citadel (La Citadelle)

Québec City's Citadel ( La Citadelle , in French) is the largest British-built fortress in North America; it took 30 years to construct. This military site has been active since 1850 when it housed British troops and the British artillery. Today, the Citadel is occupied by the only Francophone infantry contingent of the Regular Canadian Armed Forces – the Royal 22e Régiment – who have called this structure home since 1920.

You can learn more about the Canadian Armed Forces at the on-site museum, which contains a notable collection of military artifacts. And if you visit around 10 a.m. between the end of June and the first Monday of September, you can witness the Royal 22e Régiment band.

Battlefields Park (Parc des Champs-de-Bataille) Battlefields Park (Parc des Champs-de-Bataille) free

Anyone with an interest in colonial history should set aside some time to explore Battlefields Park. Sometimes referred to as the Plains of Abraham, this 267-acre strip of land just west of  Old Québec  witnessed the sealing of New France’s fate. The Battle of Québec (the pivotal moment of the French and Indian War when the French were forced to cede New France to Great Britain) took place here. 

Today, Battlefields Park is the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air. While you're sure to see a few historical elements (like the occasional ornamental cannon and defensive towers known as Martello Tower), make sure to pay specific attention to the manicured gardens – don't miss the stunning Joan of Arc Garden – and the riverfront vistas. Recent visitors said this is a great park to lounge and read a book, have a picnic or go for a walk. 

Quartier Petit Champlain Quartier Petit Champlain free

Even shopaholics can't escape this town's devotion to history. Sitting on the southeast edge of  Old Québec , the Quartier Petit Champlain is the oldest shopping district in North America and a great place to pick up souvenirs. Here, boutique shops and cozy cafes spill out of restored houses. And a fun fact: One of the neighborhood's houses belonged to Louis Jolliet, the French Canadian explorer credited with discovering the Mississippi River. To avoid the crowds, recent travelers recommend going either early in the day or in the evening. 

Make sure you save some time to climb the famous Escalier Casse-Cou (Breakneck Steps), or at least ride the funicular to the top to enjoy fantastic views of Old Québec. 

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Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre free

Sitting about 22 miles northeast of central Québec City, this stunning religious site in the small town of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré was first constructed in 1658; the current structure was built in the 1920s following a fire. The basilica honors Saint Anne, the patron saint of Québec. Pilgrims travel across the globe to pay their respects to Saint Anne and to benefit from her miraculous healing powers. Legend has it that one of the basilica's original builders began his work on crutches, and was able to walk without them upon the construction's completion.

Many visitors commemorate this miracle by leaving a crutch at the front door. While the outside of the basilica is a sight to behold, the inside is also breathtaking. The central vault is completely covered in mosaics, while 240 stained-glass windows drench the basilica with color. Recent visitors said this gorgeous church is a must-see landmark, and some recommend taking the time to sit and gaze up at the beautiful ceiling. 

Museum of Civilization (Musée de la Civilisation) Museum of Civilization (Musée de la Civilisation)

Overlooking the port from its seat in  Old Québec  – just a short walk from  Place-Royale  – the Museum of Civilization explores the history of human society in Québec and uses interactive exhibits to draw a connection between the past and the present. The museum’s permanent exhibition, “This is Our Story,” focuses on the Indigenous nations living in Quebec (there are more than 95,000 First Nations and Inuit people in Quebec). While you will find expected art and artifact collections, you'll also come across specialized exhibits devoted to a variety of topics, such as gender identity and local climate issues and solutions. 

Many recent visitors praised the museum's architecture and atmosphere, and noted that the exhibits are informative and suitable for families (especially kids in the 9 to 14 age range), though some remark that the museum is on the smaller side. 

Morrin Centre Morrin Centre

This fascinating historic site in  Old Québec  has worn many hats throughout its history. It was a military prison in the 18th century; a civilian prison from the early to mid-19th century and the city's first English-language college in the late 19th century. The Literary and Historical Society of Québec has also called this site home since the late 1800s. The Morrin Centre has played a crucial role in the development of several historical foundations, including the National Archives of Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. Today, the Morrin Centre acts primarily as an English-language library, granting English speakers access to books in a primarily francophone city. 

But the Morrin Centre offers visitors much more than literary stimulation. Guided, hourlong tours take travelers through the facility's history; you'll be able to explore the old jail cells and the Victorian library, which contains artifacts dating back to the 16th century. Recent visitors said the tour is absolutely worth it, as the guides are informative, engaging and eager to answer questions. Others said this is a great experience for all ages. Between the end of May and the beginning of September, guided tours are offered in English daily at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.  

National Museum of Fine Arts (Musée National des Beaux-Arts) National Museum of Fine Arts (Musée National des Beaux-Arts)

The National Museum of Fine Arts' perch in Battlefields Park  means that you can enjoy views of this beloved green space while you peruse the notable works housed within these galleries. The collection is spread across four separate buildings: the Grand Hall, the Charles-Baillairgé Building, the Gérard-Morisset Building and the Pierre Lassonde Building. The design and historical significance of the first three structures adds to the art-viewing experience. For example, the Charles-Baillairgé Building was the Québec City Prison from 1867 to 1970. You can still tour some of the cells that remain intact; the others have been transformed into galleries. The neoclassical Gérard-Morisset Building is the original museum building, home to many of the museum's works. The Pierre-Lassonde Building is a stunning gallery dedicated to modern-contemporary art.

Although previous visitors agree that the National Museum of Fine Arts can't compare to other art museums like the Louvre in Paris or the Met in New York, most say that Québec City's version is worth checking out. Several reviewers warned future visitors that the museum is undergoing renovations and that three of the buildings are closed, leaving just the contemporary art exhibitions open to the public. The museum expects the work to be complete by late 2025 or early 2026.

Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) at Village Vacances Valcartier Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) at Village Vacances Valcartier

Situated about 20 miles northeast of Old Québec near the Jacques-Cartier River, Village Vacances Valcartier lures families and travelers looking for a fun day trip or short getaway. The resort began as a toboggan run in 1963 and was the first to offer snow tubing in 1971. Water slides and pools were added in the 1980s, and today, Village Vacances Valcartier is a popular all-season resort.

During the summer, this recreational oasis offers a sprawling outdoor waterpark with pools, waterslides and lazy rivers. An enticing destination on hot days, many travelers find the waterpark is overcrowded and not worth the high entrance fee. Avoiding long weekends and visiting at the beginning of the week is best, and bringing snacks is recommended as the resort’s restaurants can be lackluster.

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Quebec City Bus Tours Quebec City Bus Tours

U.S. News Insider Tip: Use the red line hop-on, hop-off bus operated by Unitours to gain an understanding of where everything is located, and to visit places that you may not want to travel to on foot. – Pamela MacNaughtan

From the cobblestone streets of Old Québec and religious and military historic sites to the Plains of Abraham, Montmorency Falls and wineries, bus tours offer compelling overviews of the city. In Québec City, Unitours (formerly Tours Vieux Québec) is the premier bus tour company within the city. The routes begin near Château Frontenac, and the number of stops varies depending on the bus and tour duration. See the European architecture of Old Québec, local neighborhood streets, museums and historic sites. The red line is a double-decker hop-on, hop-off bus tour with 15 stops throughout the city. The prerecorded audio commentary offers a few insights into the city’s history, however, some travelers find it lacking in substance. The yellow line, a one-hour express tour, has guaranteed top-deck seats and the same commentary.

Île d’Orléans Île d’Orléans free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Île d’Orléans is a popular destination and traffic can be intense in summer. For the best experience, go in the morning. Plan for an early lunch to avoid crowds, and be sure to stop at a farmstand to buy fresh strawberries. – Pamela MacNaughtan

Juicy strawberries and rich amber-colored maple syrup are the signatures of Île d’Orléans, an island just 10.5 miles from downtown Québec City. Colonized by the French in the 17th century, the island was home to the Huron Nation who lived, hunted and fished here. The French divided the land using the seigneurial system; long skinny tracts of land. Chemin Royal, the 42-mile road that encircles the island, was completed in 1744 and continues to be the island’s main road today.

Saint-Roch Saint-Roch

U.S. News Insider Tip: Some of the city’s best cafes, restaurants and bars can be found here, including award-winners L'Affaire est ketchup, Battuto, and JJacques. A highlight of the area is Korrigane Brasserie Artisanale, a woman-owned microbrewery. – Pamela MacNaughtan

Tucked away from the bustling streets of Old Québec , which can be bloated with travelers in high season, is the artsy neighborhood of Saint-Roch. Some travelers have compared it to New York’s Brooklyn or Williamsburg, with its grittiness and eclectic atmosphere. This was a commercial artery in the city in the 1960s, and became a blue-collar neighborhood as businesses moved out to other areas of the city. Today, Saint-Roch has transformed into a trendy area popular with young artists and professionals. Modern shimmering condo buildings are surrounded by a mix of heritage residential buildings.

Jacques-Cartier National Park Jacques-Cartier National Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don’t have a car? Quatre Natures provides a daily shuttle service from Old Québec to Jacques-Cartier National Park. It costs CA$39.90 (roughly $29) for a round-trip ride, which includes your park entrance ticket. – Pamela MacNaughtan

A roughly 30-mile drive north of Québec City is the lush mountainous oasis of Jacques-Cartier National Park. Its 67,000 square miles features a deep-cut glacial valley and around 62 miles of hiking trails, with the Jacques-Cartier River flowing through its length. The park takes up the southernmost lands of the Laurentides Wildlife Reserve, making it an excellent place for wildlife watching.

Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville free

In the heart of Upper-Town between Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral and City Hall is Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville. This small public square was home to a marketplace for local farmers until 1875. Its name came about after the completion of City Hall, and this square has been used as a gathering place ever since. Today, Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville also includes the garden and terrace behind City Hall.

Children and adults dance through the programmable fountain as water jets from the ground, while others stretch out on the grass for a mid-afternoon snooze. Chairs and tables adorn both squares, making them a charming place to enjoy a picnic of wine, local beer and Québec terroir. Travelers have remarked they love the peacefulness of Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville and its close proximity to landmarks and restaurants in Old Québec .

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20 Best Things to Do in Quebec City — Poutine and Nordic Spas Included

Here's how locals recommend exploring the French-Canadian destination.

CHENG FENG CHIANG/Getty Images

Steeped in old-world elegance, Quebec City is one of the oldest European settlements in North America, and it has the historical sites to prove it. From the cobblestoned streets of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) to myriad bakeries turning out buttery croissants, visitors to the French-Canadian metropolis have ample opportunities to learn about its history and to partake in time-honored traditions.

Home to lively festivals, innovative restaurants, and green spaces that serve as year-round playgrounds, the city also makes for a great weekend getaway, one with a dose of European flair (without the transatlantic flight). With the help of the city’s top concierges and tour guides, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Quebec City.

Related : The Best Times to Visit Quebec City, According to Locals

Take a walking tour of Old Quebec.

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Founded in 1608 by the French explorer Samuel de Champlain, the Historic District of Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the continent’s only fully walled city north of Mexico. Head to the tourist information center in Upper Town, across the street from the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , to join a historic walking tour with Tours Voir Québec . Or book a private adventure with Tours Accolade , which offers tours based on your genealogy and multi-sensory excursions for the visually impaired.

Explore Quartier Petit Champlain.

Immerse yourself in 17th-century New France by strolling around the Petit-Champlain and Place Royale area. “Explore the oldest stone church north of Mexico, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires (built in 1687); grab a coffee at Smith Cafe , and continue your exploration along Petit-Champlain, one of the oldest commercial streets in North America — often voted among the most beautiful streets in Canada,” says Geneviève Guay, head concierge at Auberge Saint-Antoine .

Marvel at Montmorency Falls.

At 272 feet, this gorgeous waterfall is about 100 feet higher than Niagara Falls, and there are plenty of nearby activities to try, too, including zip lines and via ferrata routes, plus a suspension bridge, cable car, and cliffside boardwalk with panoramic views. The best part? It's just a 15-minute drive from the city center.

Have a picnic at the Plains of Abraham.

Gabriel Mello/Getty Images

The site of a battle in 1759 , the Plains of Abraham is now a giant urban park enjoyed by tourists and locals alike. “The Plains is the perfect place for a glass of wine and gourmet picnic in the summer sun,” says Simon Bovoli, director of concierge service and luxury experiences at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. “I always recommend that visitors stop at one of the city's gourmet bakeries or fresh produce vendors to purchase all of their picnic essentials and find a spot with a view of the river or near a local busker to enjoy.”

Peruse the world’s largest collection of Quebecoise art.

Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Art lovers will want to carve out at least a few hours to visit Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec , which houses more than 40,000 works from the 17th century to the present day. Be sure to find the noteworthy collection of Inuit art housed in the stunning Lassonde Pavilion.

Discover the city’s military history at Artillery Park.

LeonU/Getty Images

This park features 18th-century French army barracks and is a must-visit for history lovers. Don’t miss the Arsenal Foundry (a giant model of Quebec in the 19th century) and the Dauphine Redoubt, where you’ll find guides in period costumes speaking in character. “It’s not often included in the walking tours of the city, or even the bus tours that are offered, but it’s a fascinating place covering the history of the French and British troops in Quebec City from 1712 to the end of the 20th century,” says Christian Gingras, a local guide with Tours Voir Québec.

Appreciate the view from the St. Lawrence River.

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For one of the best views of Quebec City, get on the river via commuter ferry — the boat to Lévis leaves every 30 minutes and only costs a few bucks. After the 15-minute crossing, you can stroll along the waterfront in Lévis. “In the winter, it’s also a great experience to see the blocks of ice being crushed and pushed around by the ship when you’re on the bridge of the ferry,” says Gingras.

Learn about the area’s Indigenous cultures.

Travelers don't have to go far to immerse themselves in the province's rich Indigenous cultures. Just 20 minutes from downtown, Wendake is the cradle of the Huron-Wendat Nation and offers numerous ways to learn about its traditions. Join a craft workshop at the Huron-Wendat Museum , go on a night walk through an illuminated forest with Onhwa' Lumina , see traditional dance performances, hear stories at the national Ekionkiestha' longhouse, or sample delicious First Nations cuisine at Restaurant La Traite .

Have afternoon tea at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

This property is said to be the world's most photographed hotel , and it’s easy to see why. Perched on a clifftop, Quebec City’s grand dame hotel dates back to 1893 and boasts beautifully preserved decorative features. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth popping in to gaze up at the chandeliers in the lobby and indulge in a leisurely afternoon tea at the Champlain Restaurant , which dates back to 1893.

Stroll along Dufferin Terrace.

David Boutin Photography/Getty Images

This wooden boardwalk sits beside the Château Frontenac and offers one of the most beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding area. Walk along the promenade, relax on a bench, and enjoy live music from buskers in the summer, or head down the locally loved toboggan run in the winter.

Sample small-batch maple syrup.

Quebec is the world’s largest producer of maple syrup, so travelers would be remiss not to sample the province's liquid gold. The sugaring season typically runs from the end of February to the beginning of May, but you can also taste quality maple syrup at local markets and restaurants year-round. “It is a backbone of our cuisine at the restaurant, and also a staple food you can find in every single household in Québec City,” says Tim Moroney, chef-owner of Restaurant Alentours . “If you want to nerd out, go for a syrup — maple, birch, and bourbon-aged — tasting at Domaine Small .”

Attend the Quebec Winter Carnival.

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Every February, Quebec City hosts one of the world’s largest winter carnivals — a tradition that has been going strong since the 1950s. The 10-day celebration includes night parades, ice canoe racing, musical performances, and activities like snow bathing and tobogganing. But one of the major highlights is watching artists carve extraordinary snow sculptures.

Hit the trail in Jacques-Cartier National Park.

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Only a 45-minute drive from downtown, Jacques-Cartier National Park is a spectacular glacial valley sliced by a stunning river. There are more than 60 miles of trails to traverse, or you can kayak or canoe. And while the park is beautiful year-round, it is particularly stunning at the end of September and the beginning of October when the fall foliage in Quebec hits its peak. “Les Loups Trail rewards you with a spectacular view of the entire valley from its summit,” says Guay.

Relax at a Nordic spa.

After all the walking, head to one of Quebec City's many Nordic spas to soak in thermal waters. There are several options right in the heart of Old Quebec, including the architecturally stunning Strøm Nordic Spa and Sky Spa ; the latter boasts a year-round rooftop patio and a view of the St. Lawrence River. Prefer to recharge in nature? Head to Sibéria Station Spa to enjoy hot pools and saunas nestled in the forest.

Sample poutine, a regional staple.

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A trip to Quebec City wouldn’t be complete without trying poutine, one of Canada’s most iconic dishes. For a local take on the dish — French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy — head to La Souche Microbrasserie , which Moroney describes as “a beautifully raw neighborhood brewery” and a “true local hangout” in one.

Catch a live show.

Barry Brecheisen/WireImage via Getty Images

Thanks to several bar de chansonniers (bars with folk music) and concert venues, it’s easy to rock out in Quebec City any time of year. Guay suggests that true music fans should visit in the summer, when the city hosts several festivals. In early July, Le Festival d'Été brings together hundreds of artists for 10 days of music. The Cigale festival brings live performances to the beaches of Baie de Beauport, just minutes from downtown Quebec City, in August.

Visit Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré shrine.

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The oldest pilgrimage site north of Mexico and one of five shrines in Quebec City, this site lures architecture lovers with its intricate features. Stained glass, stone, and wooden sculptures decorate the Catholic basilica , and there are paintings and mosaics to see as well. In the summer, a river shuttle connects Old Quebec to the shrine, making it easy to explore the site and its scenic surroundings.

Explore the island of Ile d'Orléans.

Ile d'Orléans is a bucolic island just 15 minutes from Quebec City by car, and it's a favorite among gourmands and history lovers. Home to vineyards, orchards, strawberry fields, and centuries-old buildings, you can easily spend a full day visiting wineries here and loading up on homemade jams, chocolates, and other goodies. For the best views, locals recommend a fall visit. “As the vines turn to red and gold, sit back and enjoy a glass of locally made wine with the views of Montmorency Falls and the colorful Côte de Beaupré in the background,” says Frantz Noël, co-owner of tour agency Conciergerie du Terroir .

Tour the largest British fortress in North America.

zrfphoto/Getty Images

Sitting at one of the highest points in Quebec City, the Citadelle of Québec is a vital component of the city’s fortifications. It’s still an active military base, so you must join a tour to explore its buildings, which date back to the 1800s. The site often offers seasonal events, such as musical performances and changing of the guard ceremonies, so it’s a good idea to check the website before planning your visit.

Sleep in an ice hotel.

Courtesy of  Hotel de Glace

For a one-of-a-kind overnight experience, head to Hôtel de Glace , a hotel built with 2,300 blocks of ice and 15,000 tons of snow. Located at Village Vacances Valcartier, just 20 minutes from downtown Quebec City, this architectural wonder welcomes guests for tours and overnight stays from January to March. The temperature of the rooms hovers around 23 degrees Fahrenheit (even when it's -22 degrees Fahrenheit outside), and guests can warm up in hot tubs, saunas, insulating sheets, and arctic-grade sleeping bags. While you’re there, hit the ice skating paths and massive snow slides for a true Canadian adventure.

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Feb 25, 2024 • 6 min read

Just northeast of Québec City, Montmorency Falls has a zipline that runs right in front of the raging whitewater © Jeff Frenette Photography, Destination Québec cité

Cobblestone streets, citadels and canons perched atop fortress walls are unexpected sights in North America – but you can find all of that and more in Québec City.

The capital of French Canada, Québec City is known for its 400+ years of colonial history, and yet the only walled city north of Mexico also has a young lifeblood. From wild festivals to bars with live music, a spectacular waterfall to an illuminated night walk showcasing Indigenous history, here are the best things to do in Québec City.

Gawk at history in Vieux Québec

Sure, Old Québec is where the tourists go, and the 19th-century Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Hotel is probably one of the most photographed accommodations on earth, but you simply can’t visit Québec City and skip the UNESCO-recognized old town – it’s far too beautiful.

Bigger and older than Montréal’s old town, Vieux Québec has an upper and a lower portion. Old Upper Town includes the Le Château Frontenac and Dufferin Terrace , where canons above an archeological crypt deter any would-be hordes. If you're around in winter, slide down Les Glissades de la Terrasse, which has been hosting toboggan rides for nearly 150 years.

Old Lower Town is more charming, and perfect for a winding meander. Strolling the streets sounds simple, until you’re enticed by charming artisanal boutiques and splurge-worthy restaurants like Le Lapin Sauté , a restaurant starring rabbit meat.

Get in on the festival action

Québec is the highest-taxed province in Canada, but it uses some of those funds to support the arts, including incredible festivals year round. 

In July, Festival d’Été is a nine-day festival with stages across the city, including on the Plains of Abraham, where a 1759 battle between France and England decided the fate of North America. Comparatively speaking, Festival d’Été hosts artists from around the world at an affordable price – for instance, 2023's full festival pass costs $140 and gave access to all eleven days of music.

Come February, Québec’s Bonhomme opens its arms wide to travelers at Winter Carnaval , the world’s oldest winter carnival. Yes, it gets cold, but you’ll keep warm skating, dancing in night parades or sipping Caribou – a traditional boozy punch.

Try the country's most famous dish

Canada's national dish is poutine – squeaky cheese curds and gravy dumped over golden-brown fries – and you’ll find it on pretty much any menu in town. If you ask around, you’ll probably get plenty of recommendations to try Chez Gaston, a no-frills traditional casse-croute (takeaway) in the Saint-Roch neighborhood, but in a pinch, Québec City’s version of McDonald’s, Chez Ashton, is open 24 hours and has locations around the city.

Have a picnic with a stellar view

Quebeckers love a good charcuterie setup as much as anyone in France, so provisions won't be hard to come by. Grab some local cheeses, sausages, wine and a baguette and take it all up to Pierre-Dugua-De-Mons Terrace for a picnic – the view over the city from the park benches is spectacular. Plus, you’ll be right next to the largest fort in North America, La Citadelle , which also hosts a museum dedicated to the Royal 22nd Regiment, a mostly francophone infantry regiment of the Canadian Army.

Head out of (the old) town to hang with the locals

If you want to get off the beaten track and experience Québec City like a local, leave the Old Town. 

In the St-Roch neighborhood, go shopping along St-Joseph during the day and grab dinner at the adorably named L’Affaire est Ketchup . Then catch an indie-rock show at L’Anti at night – the bar serves local craft beer, incandescent cocktails and steamy hotdogs. Another great option for a night out in St-Roch is MacFly , an arcade and pinball bar with a funky atmosphere close to Saint Joseph. Or, for a taste of Québec City’s finer arts, Théâtre de la Bordée  puts on five French-language plays per season.

The St-Jean-Baptiste neighborhood is another area worth checking out. It has cute shops and bistros galore, along with a great pub terrasse at Le Sacrilège .

West of the Old City in the Montcalm neighborhood, you’ll find Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec , arguably the city’s finest museum both literally and figuratively. Montcalm also contains JA Moisan , a legendary deli and grocery store opened in 1871 that also has an auberge upstairs .

Grab a summer drink and dip your toes in the pool

Summers can be filled with tough dilemmas, such as whether to sit in an Adirondack lounge chair to sip your drink or dunk your feet in the pool. La Cour arrière du Festibière solves the problem by combining the two in front of live music. The bar is also dog friendly and a great place to watch the cruise ships come in.

Cycle through history

Québeckers are very active, and the capital has done a great job at paving plenty of bike trails. From the Old Port, bike northwest to the Corridor de la Rivière-Saint-Charles, a 9km (5.6-mile) loop along the banks of the Saint-Charles River. 

Another pretty path is to take Boulevard Champlain from the Old Port and ride along the Saint Lawrence River. Which yacht is your favorite?

For the ambitious cyclist, Québec City is a stop on the Route Verte , the longest network of bike trails in North America that stretches nearly 4830km (3000 miles) through Ontario, Quebec, the northeastern US and into the Maritimes. 

Learn about Indigenous heritage

Of course, while Québec City was founded by Samuel de Champlain in 1608, Indigenous peoples lived there for thousands of years prior. Today you can learn about history and contemporary culture of the Huron and Wendat people at the Wendake urban reservations , about 20 minutes north of the city. There you’ll find plenty of craft shops to support local Indigenous artists as well as the Huron-Wendat museum , which has a great collection of artifacts.

Wendake also hosts  Onhwa’ Lumina , an illuminated 244m (800ft) night walk in partnership with international interactive-exhibit company Moment Factory, so definitely don’t miss that.

Zip across a waterfall

Just northeast of Québec City is a massive 83m (272-foot) waterfall, Chute Montmorency , which gushes powerful inland river water into the Saint Lawrence River. Once you enter the provincial park (called a parc national in Québec), there are some lovely nature walks less than 3km (1.86 miles) long that will help you find the perfect shot of the cascade.

For the adrenaline seekers out there, Montmorency Falls also has a 300m (984ft) zipline that runs right in front of the raging whitewater.

Taste ice wine on Île-d’Orléans

Across a short bridge from Québec City is a gorgeous 259-sq-km (100-sq-mile) island called L’Île d’Orléans, home to 7000 people spread across six cute villages, all with their own unique vibes. 

Visiting is a great way to spend a day. While on the island, indulge at the Chocolaterie de L’Île d’Orléans  and do an ice-wine tasting – a Québec tradition that involves making wine out of frozen grapes – at Vignoble Isle de Bacchus .

Hop on a boat across the St Lawrence

Before bidding adieu to the Québec capital, hop on a ferry across the St Lawrence River to Lévis. The 12-minute ride allows for great photos of the old city and takes you across to Lévis, which has a picturesque quay perfect for grabbing an ice cream before heading back.

This article was first published Jun 23, 2022 and updated Feb 25, 2024.

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Visit Quebec: Top 20 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 20 best things to do in quebec (bucket list).

You’re planning to visit Quebec and you’re looking for the best things to do during your trip?

You’re at the right place!

Quebec, the French speaking province of Canada , is renown for its amazing natural landscapes and vibrant cities. No matter if you plan to visit in Winter, Spring, Summer or Autumn , you will for sure find beautiful places to visit and great activities to enjoy in Quebec!

In order to help you plan your trip, I’ve thus put together this guide of the 20 best things to do in Quebec , with all my best tips to make the most of your visits.

So, what are the best things to do in Quebec?

Let’s find out!

1. Montreal

2. quebec city, 3. the carnaval of quebec, or quebec winter carnival, 4. the montmorency falls, 5. whale watching in tadoussac, 6. autumn in quebec province, 7. snow tu1bing and snow rafting, 8. snowmobiling and dog sledding in quebec, 9. discover gaspé peninsula, 10. the saguenay fjord, 11. discover the typical sugar shacks, 12. la mauricie national park, 13. taste the famous poutine, 14. visit the omega park, 15. go skiing with a view of the saint-lawrence river, 16. ice skating in the middle of the forest, 17. canoeing in quebec, 18. the magdalen islands, 19. anticosti island, 20. the weekend brunch, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you, visiting quebec: all best places to visit.

In order to help you plan your stay in Quebec, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• 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!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

It’s impossible to start this Quebec tourist guide without mentioning its most visited city, Montreal . This lively city offers many great things to do and see!

Here are the best places to visit in Montreal:

• The Mount-Royal plateau, the most famous neighborhood of the city, with many bars, restaurants and shops. You will love its typical colorful houses with outdoor stairs!
• Mount-Royal park : Enjoy a bit of greenery in the heart of Montreal! In this park, you will discover many shaded trails and beautiful viewpoints. Don’t miss the Mount Royal Belvedere: it’s the best place to admire the whole southern part of the city. And, how about a picnic along Beaver Lake? This artificial lake, with its playground for children and bar-restaurant with a terrace, is the perfect place to spend a summer afternoon. It’s also easy to approach the many squirrels, as they’re quite curious. Mount Royal Park is clearly one of the must-see attractions in Quebec province!
• The Old Montreal , the city’s oldest neighborhood. There, you can admire the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, Jacques Cartier Square and the Bonsecours Market.
• The Montreal Botanical Garden and its more than 20 thematic gardens
• Saint-Joseph’s Oratory , famous for its architecture

If you want more information about Montreal, you should check my definitive guide: The 45 best things to do in Montreal.

During your stay in Quebec, you should definitely visit the province’s capital and 2nd largest city, Quebec City . This UNESCO World Heritage site has a more European feel than Montreal. It feels a bit like my home country, France!

Quebec City’s best points of interest are:

• The Château Frontenac, the city’s most iconic landmark
• The Quartier du Petit-Champlain, North America’s oldest Neighborhood, with its Place Royale and pretty pedestrian alleys.
• Taking a stroll along the Terrasse Dufferin and enjoy its incredible view of  the Saint-Lawrence river and the Île d’Orléans.
• The Citadel of Quebec and its fortified walls

You can find a list of all the best places to visit in Quebec City in my article: Visit Quebec City: the 15 best things to do and see.

If you’re visiting Quebec City between late January and mid-February, then you have to attend the Carnaval of Quebec, or Quebec Winter Carnival. It’s definitely one of the province’s major events.

Every year, thousands of people are coming to Quebec City to enjoy the world’s biggest winter carnival.

You will discover a large number of events and contests during these 2 weeks, including the international Snow and Ice sculpture competition, day and night parades, the famous Snow Bath, the icy canoe races, and many other activities such as giant board games, ice skating, sledging,…

Also, don’t forget to take a souvenir photo with the carnival’s mascot, “Bonhomme Carnaval”. This huge white man wearing a red tuque can be seen all over the carnival.

If you want to stay in Quebec City during the carnival , you should book your accommodation as early as possible . People are coming from all over the world for the carnival, and the best places to stay are often booked months in advance.

When visiting Quebec province, you should also see the Montmorency Falls, located 40 minutes away from Quebec City.

These 83-meter high falls are higher than the Niagara falls. The place is really impressive, especially in winter, as the river can be completely frozen.

There are many points of views to observe the falls. You can access them with the cable-car, the panoramic stairs or the suspension bridge. And if you’re looking for a thrilling experience, you should definitely try the 300-meter zip line and the “via ferrata”.

You will find more detailed information, including the rates, on the official website.

The Quebec province is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching, and you should really spend an afternoon trying to get a look at these huge cetaceans.

It’s among the most popular attractions in the region for both locals and tourists. The whale watching season starts in May and end in October.

You can go whale watching almost everywhere in Quebec, but the best place is definitely the North coast, and more specifically Tadoussac, a small village located close to the Saguenay Fjord and the Saint-Lawrence estuary.

There, you will have the choice between 3 different sea trips: a 3-hour cruise in a big boat, a 2-hour small zodiac tour or even a sea kayak excursion if you’re feeling adventurous!

If you’re choosing the Zodiac tour , you will get really close to the whales, and it’s quite impressive. Remember to dress warmly!

Here are the average rates for these 3 different sea trips:

• 3-hour cruise on a big boat (around 100 people on board) : 70$ per person
• 2-hour zodiac tour (between 10 and 30 passengers) : 60$ per person
• 2-hour sea kayak trip: 70$ per person

If you want to go whale watching in Tadoussac, you should opt for this incredible Zodiac boat tour. You can book it in advance clicking the button below:

If you want to enjoy a magnificent and colorful scenery, then you should definitely visit Quebec in autumn.

Starting from late September, the trees are turning orange and red , creating a breathtaking postcard landscape. It’s also the best season to plan beautiful hikes during your itinerary in Quebec.

The best places to admire the stunning autumn colors in Quebec are:

• Mont Tremblant National Park: the marked trail starting from the village and reaching the summit is really nice, and you will get a beautiful view of the lake located below
• Jacques Cartier National Park, featuring more than 100 km of marked trails
• Mont-Sainte-Anne, one of the best places to admire the autumn colors
• The Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area, where you can also observe many Snow Geese.
• The Vallée Bras du Nord

You should travel to Quebec between the 1st and the 15th of October to enjoy the best autumn colors.

Snow Tubing and Rafting are clearly among the funniest things to do in Quebec during winter. You just have to slide down the slopes riding an inner tube, a buoy or a raft.

It’s really awesome!

If you’re looking for steep slopes, tight turns, huge bumps and thrilling speeds up to 100 km/h, you’re at the right place! And thanks to the mechanical lifts, you will slide all day and go up the slopes without any excessive effort.

You can go Snow Tubing in many parks, but I would recommend Saint Jean de Matha, located only 100 km away from Montreal. There, I spent a whole day without waiting much between my slides, as there wasn’t too many people.

It was a wonderful day and we enjoyed a perfect family atmosphere. A full-day ticket costs 28$ (VAT not included).

In Saint Jean de Matha, you can also enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoe hiking or ice skating. And of course, you can eat on the spot as there’s a restaurant. Be aware that the minimal height for snow rafting is 1m25.

And if you want to know everything about Snow Tubing and Snow Rafting in Saint Jean de Matha, you can check the official website.

If you’re visiting Quebec during winter, you should spend a few days in the countryside. And how about a snowmobile or dog sled ride to discover its magnificent preserved landscape?

In Quebec, you will find many Outfitters (or “Pourvoiries” in French) offering dog sled rides. A 1-hour ride costs around 75$ per person. And if you want to go snowmobiling, a half-day (3h30) costs around 120$. You can also go snowmobiling and dog sledding on the same day for 240$.

You must be at least 21 and pay a 2000$ deposit to drive a snowmobile in Quebec.

During your weekend in the Quebec countryside, you can also discover ice fishing . Dig a hole in the ice and try to catch your dinner! A half-day ice fishing costs around 65$ per person, including the equipment.

The best regions to enjoy winter activities in Quebec are Gaspé Peninsula, the Laurentides, La Mauricie, the Eastern Townships and Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean. The snow conditions are often perfect there!

If you’re willing to spend a few days away from the big cities, then you should visit Gaspé Peninsula and its amazing scenery.

The easiest way to discover the peninsula is to rent a car and follow the costal road 132. There are many points of interest in Gaspé, but if you’re only staying a few days there, you should at least visit these 3 must-see places.

1) Make your 1st stop in Percé (literally “Pierced” in French). Right in front of the village, you will discover its famous huge pierced rock, standing in the Saint-Lawrence river and only connected to the mainland at low tide.

From Percé, you can also access the Bonaventure Island, hosting the world’s largest Northern Gannets colony. And how about doing an organized boat trip around the island to admire those magnificent birds?

2) Your 2nd stop will be Forillon National Park, at the Eastern end of Gaspé peninsula.

Hike and explore the region’s magnificent cliffs overlooking the sea and beautiful preserved forests. For example,you should take a stroll on the “Les Graves” trail, offering beautiful views of the ocean and the forest.

The park is a great place to observe an amazing wildlife , as thousands of sea birds and seals colonies are living here. You can also go whale watching, kayaking or fishing.

3) Your last stop should be The Gaspésie National Park. It’s truly an hiker’s paradise, with its more than 20 summits over 1000-meter high. If you’re lucky, you might encounter some moose, as the park hosts the only colony south of the Saint-Lawrence river.

As in Forillon National Park, you can also go canoeing, kayaking or fishing in one of the park’s 7 lakes and 3 rivers.

If you have enough time to spend several days in Gaspésie National Park, and if you’re an hiking lover, you should do the Appalachian Trail, a 100-km long marked trail crossing the park.

You can opt for a 4 days guided tour including the accommodation (mostly in shelters), the meals, and the luggage transfer from one shelter to another.

The Saguenay Fjord is another place you must visit during your holidays in Quebec.

With its more than 400-meter high cliffs , this fjord offers beautiful viewpoints over the glacier valley and the Saguenay river.

There are many great ways to discover the Saguenay Fjord:

• On foot: walk on the marked trails of the Saguenay Fjord National Park. The 7-km long Statue Trail is the best if you want to admire splendid views from the summit.
• Rent a sea kayak to be amazed by the Fjord’s huge cliffs.
• Do a boat tour with an audio guide to learn more about the Fjord’s History and legends.

You should also visit the 2 villages of L’anse-Saint-Jean and Saint-Rose-du-Nord, members of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of Quebec.

Located in the heart of the Saguenay Fjord, these 2 villages are offering magnificent panoramas.

If you’re visiting Quebec during spring, you definitely have to discover the Sugar Shacks.

It’s clearly among the most popular things to do in Quebec!

Every year, both locals and tourists are coming to the province’s many sugar shacks to celebrate the sugar time. At this time of the year, maple water starts flowing from the maple trees. Once boiled, it can be used to produce many typical Canadian products, such as maple syrup or maple butter.

The Sugar Shacks are usually located in the countryside, offering a charming scenery. There are many activities you can enjoy (sleigh rides, maple syrup production, traditional dance), but most people are coming there to eat a typical lunch.

Most of your meal will consist of maple syrup : maple glazed ham , potatoes,  maple and bacon baked beans, sausages, eggs in syrup, and the famous “Oreilles de crisses” , deep-fried smoked pork jowls. And for desert, of course, maple candies and the renowned Maple Taffy: when you pour hot maple syrup directly into the snow, it becomes easy to wrap around a stick and makes a lollipop. A bit sticky but delicious!

You can find all the best Sugar Shacks in Quebec on this website .  If you’re spending a few days in Quebec early spring, it’s clearly a must-see attraction!

I only have one advice: avoid too tight pants! 😋

La Mauricie National Park is located between Montreal and Quebec City, in the heart of the Laurentides mountains.

In this 536 km² park, you will discover more than 150 lakes, many rivers and huge waterfalls.

Fishing, biking, rafting, camping and of course hiking: there are many great activities to do in La Mauricie! You can also observe the amazing wildlife, as the park is full of moose, beavers and raccoons.

A 63-km long  panoramic road crosses the park, starting from Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc or Saint-Jean-des-Piles.

Take some time during your road-trip to admire the beautiful panoramas. You should especially stop at the “Belvedere du Passage” to enjoy a magnificent view of Wapizagonke Lake.

The most famous excursion goes to the Waber falls. To get there, you will have to paddle on a raft for 4 kilometers, then walk for 4 other kilometers. And of course, you will have to go back to your starting point!  As it takes a full day, don’t forget your picnic!

Have you ever tried the Poutine? I really enjoyed this iconic dish from Quebec, but I can tell that it leaves no one indifferent: you either love it or hate it!

If you want to make a typical Poutine, all you will need french fries, brown gravy and cheese curds.

Once you’ve got these 3 ingredients, you can create many variations: change the sauce, the cheese, or add some meat, onions, mushrooms or even sausages!

There are more than 100 different recipes in some restaurants, but not all equal. Montreal’s most famous restaurant for its Poutine is “La Banquise”, open 24/7.

Be prepared to queue up at any time of the day. You should try “La duleton”: it’s a great classical Poutine with minced meat and onions, and it was clearly delicious!

If you want to have a look at the many Poutine variations, you can check “La Banquise” menu on their official website.

Poutine is clearly Quebec’s most famous dish. Every year, the “Poutine Week” is even organized, and more than 50 restaurants are competing and making a special Poutine just for this event. At the end of the week, the jury and consumers are electing their favorite ones in several categories.

The Omega Park is located South West of the Quebec province , about 100 kilometers away from Montreal.

In this wildlife park, you will discover many wild animals in their natural habitat. You can drive through the park for around 10 kilometers and observe wolves, black bears, moose or beavers.

There is also a marked walking trail, a picnic area and a shop. Don’t forget to buy carrots to feed some of the animals!

As the Omega Park is pretty big, you should spend at least half a day there. It’s clearly a great activity if you’re travelling to Quebec with children!

You can also rent an accommodation for the night , in the heart of the park. You will have the choice between tepees, tents, log cabins or even houses on stilts . A tepee for 2 costs around 100$ per night.

You will find every information you need on the park’s official website.

There are many ski resorts in Quebec, but if you want to enjoy magnificent panoramas, you should go to Mont-Sainte-Anne, located 30 minutes away from Quebec City. From the summit, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Saint-Lawrence river.

There, you can go downhill skiing (for 77$ per day), cross-country skiing (for 29$ per day) or snowshoeing (for 12$ per day)

You can plan your day in Mont-Sainte-Anne on the official website .

If you want to practice another typical activity during your holidays in Quebec, you should definitely go ice skating.

Nearly every neighborhood has its own outdoor (and free) skating rink! There, children can practice in complete safety, and adults can play Canada’s most popular sport: ice hockey.

If you’re not a complete beginner, how about ice skating in a magnificent place? You should go to the Lost Forest, in Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel , around a 1h45 drive from Montreal.

There, you can go ice skating through the forest, on a 12-km long trail . It’s truly magical!

You will find every information you need on the Lost Forest’s official website.

Quebec is the perfect destination for canoeing, as the region offers hundreds of lakes and rivers.

Learning to canoe can take some time and is a real challenge. But once you’ve mastered it, there are many beautiful rivers to go canoeing in Quebec.

• The Bonaventure River, often considered as Quebec’s most beautiful river. You will be amazed by its emerald and transparent waters.
• The La Diable and l’Assomption rivers, in Mont-Tremblant National Park.
• The river in Jacques-Cartier National Park
• The Malbaie river in its National Park.
• The Ashuapmushuan river, for experts only!

In Quebec, you can also c ombine canoeing and camping: all day long, you will go down Quebec’s majestic rivers, and stop for the night on the shore. There, everything is prepared for camping, with a fire hole and toilets.

The Magdalen Islands is an archipelago of 12 islands (only 7 of which are inhabited), located in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.

There, you will enjoy magnificent landscapes with large sand beaches, dunes and high cliffs overlooking the ocean.

If you want to get there, you will have 2 options:

• By plane: from Montreal, it takes 2 hours to reach the Magdalen Islands
• By ferry: it takes 5 hours to go from Souris (on Prince Edward Island, accessible by car) to the Magdalen Islands

Every summer, many Quebecers are coming there to relax and enjoy the islands’ beautiful beaches. The islands’ climate is ideal for swimming (at least for Quebecers!), as the water can reach 20°C! With its strong winds, the region is also a famous spot for windsurf and kitesurf.

Moreover, the Magdalen Islands are a perfect place for hiking lovers. If you’re going to the Cap aux Meules island, you should do the Barachois trail. There, you can observe many birds.

You can also book an excursion to see the seals living around the islands.

If you want to plan your trip to the Magdalen Islands, you can visit the official website.

Anticosti Island is Quebec’s largest natural Island. It is located in Gaspé Peninsula, in front of the towns of Gaspé and Percé.

It’s definitely the perfect place if you want to relax for a few days, discover breathtaking landscapes and observe an amazing wildlife. In Anticosti, you will probably see many deers , as it’s the island’s iconic animal.

The best places to visit in Anticosti are:

• The Port-Menier eco-museum, if you want to discover the island’s History.
• The 76-meter high Vaureal waterfall  and canyon
• The Kalamazoo falls
• The Brick river canyon and its many trouts.
• The Jupiter river, renowned for its salmons
• Patate Cave (literally “Potato Cave”), one of Quebec’s largest natural caves

The cheapest way to go to Anticosti is to take the ferry in Havre-Saint-Pierre. It takes around 5 hours, and costs 60$. You should also rent a car to get around the island.

If you want to enjoy a typical Quebec tradition, then you should definitely go brunching during the weekend. It was one of my favorite things to do when I lived in Montreal!

Many restaurants are offering brunches in Quebec. The typical Canadian brunch consists of various sorts of eggs, bacon, baked beans, potatoes, coffee, tea and orange juice.

In addition to these typical dishes, many restaurants are also serving fresh fruits, smoothies, pancakes, crêpes, sausages or bagels,… That’s why you choose a restaurant rather than another!

It’s impossible to list the best places to brunch in Quebec, as it’s really subjective and depends on what you like most.

Every person in Quebec would have a different answer! I can only tell that I’ve tried many different brunchs in Quebec and I’ve never been disappointed.

And you, what do you plan to visit during your trip to Quebec?

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: 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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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 15 Best Things to Do in Quebec (Quebec, Canada)

15 Best Things to Do in Quebec (Quebec, Canada)

The capital city of Canada’s Quebec province, Quebec City is a beautiful destination that is filled with history, culture and magnificent architecture. The area surrounding the city is also spectacular, overlooking the St. Lawrence River with the Laurentian Mountains in the background to the north.

Quebec City has always been one of Canada’s top tourist destinations, what with its Old Town, Parisian-like charm and great festivals. It is a place for romance, families and solo travellers, with something to offer everyone. It is a fantastic city, with loads to do, however these are the 15 best things to do in Quebec.

1. Go back in time

Old Quebec is home to North America’s only remaining fortified city walls. It is also home to the oldest military building in Canada; La Citadelle.

This historic neighbourhood was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It is split into two areas; Upper Town and Lower Town.

Upper Town is the main tourist area, home to the famous Château Frontenac, Hotel-Dieu de Québec, the Séminaire de Québec and the Ursulines Convent. Lower Town is where you will find Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, Place de Paris and Gare du Palais.

2. Wander around a prison

The 200 year old Morrin Centre was Quebec City’s first ever prison. Today it is a museum and a learning centre, and is home to the city’s only English library.

The Morrin Centre is a National Historic Site of Canada, as it dates back to 1712. The former prison was once home to the city’s first Anglophone institute of higher education, while today it houses the Literary and Historical Society of Quebec.

Take a tour of the buildings and explore the jail cells, including those used for inmates on death row and in isolation. You will also be taken to the chemistry lab of the historic college and will learn about the charming Victorian library.

3. Relax in a park

But not just any park; the Battlefields Park. This historic park is home to the Plains of Abraham, which is where the Battle of the Plains of Abraham took place.

Battlefields Park is home to around 50 historical artillery pieces, including the four Martello towers. These towers were built by the British to stop Americans from entering the old city walls.

Today, the Plains of Abraham is used as the park’s main exhibition area, where festivals, outdoor concerts and sports events take place. It is also just a nice place to relax.

4. Visit parliament

The eight-storey Parliament Building is a stunning building that dates back to 1877. The Second Empire architectural style building features a frontal tower that stands at 52 metres tall.

The Parliament Building sits on Parliament Hill, just outside of the old city walls. There are some lovely sculptures of important people in Quebec’s history in front of the building and around its lovely gardens.

Free guided tours are available that detail the history of Quebec’s government and of the building itself. You can also wander around the beautiful gardens.

5. Go to church

Sitting just east of the city along the Saint Lawrence River is the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, a beautiful Romanesque revival basilica. When the church was first built it was done so to honour Saint Anne.

Today, the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré is an important Catholic church that is visited by millions of pilgrims each year. Because of this, it has been designated as a Patrimoine culturel du Québec.

The basilica is said to cure the sick and disabled. Whether or not that is true is something that you can find out for yourself. Or you can just go to see the shrine of Saint Anne and to admire the architecture, frescoes and hand-made copper doors.

6. Explore one of North America’s oldest communities

The narrow streets, steps and postcard village feeling makes the Petit-Champlain district stand out amongst the rest. It also happens to be one of North America’s oldest commercial enclaves.

Explore the neighbourhood and all of its glory. Small boutiques shops and bistros line the cobblestone streets, most of which are housed in refurbished historic buildings. It is a romantic neighbourhood, with a European charm.

Petit-Champlain sits at the bottom of Cap Diamant. The Breakneck Stairs is one of its key landmarks, which is the oldest staircase in the city.

7. Snap photos of a waterfall

Montmorency Falls sits around 12 kilometres outside of Quebec City. The 84 metre high waterfall is one of the city’s top attractions, even though it isn’t actually in the city proper.

The falls are the largest in all of Quebec, dropping over a cliff into the Saint Lawrence River. There are several staircases surrounding the falls where you can take photos and admire the beauty of it.

In the summer, the falls let off a yellow glow as a result of the high iron content. As well, the summer is a great time to visit due to the fireworks competition that takes place right in front of it, which is truly spectacular.

8. Walk around a castle

Although Château Frontenac is within Old Quebec, it is also an attraction in its own right. In fact, the magnificent castle is the world’s most photographed hotel.

The 611 room hotel was designed by American architect Bruce Price and opened its doors in 1893. In 1980, it was designated as a National Historic Site of Canada.

You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy its splendour. Anyone can dine in one of its elegant restaurants or sip a glass of wine in its bar. It also has a fantastic spa. You can also just admire the building from the outside, which is particularly beautiful when it is lit up at night.

9. Look at marine life

The 16-hecatre Aquarium du Québec is home to over 10,000 animals of 300 species. The aquarium first opened in 1953 as a marine biology centre, but today it is a public aquarium with gardens, pools and several exhibits.

The Aquarium du Québec has both indoor and outdoor areas, each of which is separated into different exhibits. There are four areas indoors; Awesome Ocean and its 350,000 litre water tank, Discover the Coastal Zone, Fresh & Salt Water and Scientific Crossroads.

The outdoor area of the aquarium has three sections, with The Arctic Sector being the most popular. Here, you can see seals, polar bears and walruses both above the water and in it through an underwater glass view.

10. Enjoy a festival

There are three famous festivals that take place in Quebec City each year; Winter Carnival, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day and the Quebec City Summer Festival. There are also others, but these are the biggest and most popular.

Winter Carnival takes place in February and is best known for its International Ice Sculpture Competition. Close to one million people come to the festival each year, making it one of the world’s largest winter festivals.

Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day is celebrated on June 23rd and 24th to celebrate French Canadian culture. Around one week later is the Quebec City Summer Festival, which is a music festival that attracts millions each year, with past musicians performing that include Peter Gabriel, Snoop Dogg, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Queens of the Stone Age and Sting.

11. Go skiing

If you are visiting Quebec in the winter, there is no excuse for not going skiing. Mont-Sainte-Anne is just 40 kilometres northeast of the city, boasting 71 different trails.

The ski resort has trails on three sides of the mountain, 19 of which are open for night skiing. Runs range from easy to extreme, and are great for skiing and snowboarding.

If skiing is not your thing, you can go sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, tubing or even dog sledding. Mont-Sainte-Anne also happens to be Canada’s largest cross-country ski centre.

12. Gaze at art

There are over 35,000 works of art at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec), most of which are made by Quebec artists. Some artwork displayed at the gallery dates all the way back to the 18th century.

The museum was established in 1933 and is located on the Plains of Abraham. Since then, the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec has hosted numerous exhibits, including Treasures of Tutankhamun, Rodin in Québec and Le Louvre in Québec.

Wander around the museum and gaze at the artwork within it. Get more in-depth information by going on a guided tour, or take it one step further and join a workshop.

13. Walk along a famous street

The Grande Allée is one of the city’s most famous streets; running parallel to the Saint Lawrence River. It is a lovely street that is lined with restaurants, stunning architecture and the Parc de la Francophonie.

This street was once the only one in Quebec City and was used by fur traders that lived outside of the city, which is today Old Quebec. It runs from east to west, linking the old town with the Cap-Rouge district in the west.

Some notable buildings found on the Grande Allée include House of Louis St-Laurent, Henry-Stuart House and Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec.

14. Ride a ferry

Jump on a ferry and ride across the Saint Lawrence river from Quebec City to Levis. The ferry accommodates passengers, bicycles and even cars.

Crossing the river is not the main draw of this ferry ride; the spectacular scenery is. Some fantastic views of Old Quebec and Cap-Diamant can be seen when taking this journey.

There are restaurants, bars and concert halls on either side of the river near the piers. In the summertime, take a bicycle across to ride along the marked path at Parcours des Anses.

15. Enjoy the views

The observatory on the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building is by far the best place to enjoy views of the city. The 360-degree observatory even offers views stretching as far as Levis, Île d’Orléans and the surrounding countryside

The skyscraper is an office tower, though the 31st floor is open to the public. Here, views of the city and beyond can be seen from 221 metres above sea level.

Observatoire de la Capitale, as it is called, features large floor-to-ceiling windows around the entire building, giving you a view from all angles. It is the highest building in Quebec City, towering over Parliament Hill.

15 Best Things to Do in Quebec (Quebec, Canada):

• Go back in time
• Wander around a prison
• Relax in a park
• Visit parliament
• Go to church
• Explore one of North America’s oldest communities
• Snap photos of a waterfall
• Walk around a castle
• Look at marine life
• Enjoy a festival
• Gaze at art
• Walk along a famous street
• Ride a ferry
• Enjoy the views

30 Best Things To Do in Quebec City & Most Fun Activities

The best things to do in Quebec City whether it be indoor or outdoor, in the sunshine or in the snow.

Whether you're a local or a first-time visitor, there are tons of things to do in Quebec City. Quebec City is steeped in history and is in the history books for more than one reason. It’s the oldest French-speaking community in North America, it’s the only walled city north of Mexico and it’s home to the world’s most photographed hotel.

Get ready to step back in time as you walk down the cobblestoned streets of Old Quebec, one of the most popular activities in Quebec City. For more things to do in Quebec City, you’re going to want to keep reading. 

From world-renowned attractions to must-see neighbourhoods, I’ve covered all bases. Plus, I’ve snuck in a few underrated things to do in Quebec City that this local loves and thinks everyone needs to experience in my hometown.

Related: Wondering where else to visit in Quebec? Here are the best places to visit in Quebec .

Things To Do in Quebec City

1. walk around old quebec.

Old Quebec holds prestigious UNESCO World Heritage status and it's no wonder why. It’s one of the top places to visit in Quebec City and the following iconic landmarks collectively capture the essence of Old Quebec's beauty: 

• Petit Champlain
• Place Royale
• Terrasse Dufferin
• Place D’Armes
• Place de l'Hotel de Ville
• Rue du Tresor
• Rue De Buade
• Rue St-Jean
• Rue Saint-Louis
• Porte Saint-Louis
• Place D’Youville
• Plains of Abraham

So make sure you add these to your list of things to see in Old Quebec.

2. Tour Old Quebec on a Double-Decker Bus

• Year-round 

If you’re not much of a walker, take a double-decker bus for a comfortable tour of the best Quebec City attractions. The expertly curated routes will bring you to Place d’Armes, Place Royale, Quartier Saint Jean Baptiste, Place d’Youville, The Plains of Abraham, Citadelle de Québec and so much more. 

Choose the one-hour express Unitours bus if you’re in a hurry. If you’ll be in Quebec for a few days, opt for the Quebec Tours two-day pass which lets you get on and off at the best Quebec attractions. Just hop back on when the next bus loops around. Dress for the weather as the top level of the bus is open air! 

Related: If you’re staying for two days, you will also need our two days in Quebec City itinerary .

3. Visit Inside Château Frontenac

Chateau Frontenac is a historic grand hotel renowned for its breathtaking architecture and historical significance. There are three options to experience the interior of Chateau Frontenac. You can book a table at one of the restaurants, either for a meal or for High Tea. You can also book a guided tour, which is kid-friendly, or simply walk into the reception hall and boutiques for free.

4. Strom Spa Old Quebec

Strom Spa Nordique in Old Quebec City offers a range of relaxing services and amenities. This tranquil venue provides soothing spa treatments, including massages and thermal baths; allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate. The spa features beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces too, such as saunas, hot tubs and cozy relaxation areas. It's just a short walk and an even shorter drive or taxi ride away from Old Quebec, making it easily accessible for a moment of pampering (you deserve it). Strom Spa features on my list of the best spas in Quebec City.

5. Musee National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec

MNBAQ is one of the top Quebec tourist attractions. It’s easy to see why, as it showcases a remarkable collection of fine art. This includes paintings, sculptures and decorative arts spanning various periods and styles. The museum is located in a historic building, to which modern sections have been added. The museum's architecture is a piece of art itself: a beautiful and unique blend of modernity and tradition. MNBAQ is a good place to see local Quebec and indigenous art too. It is located near the Plains of Abraham and Rue Cartier, which is the perfect spot for a meal or drink.  

6. Musee de la Civilisation

Whether you're interested in ancient civilizations, contemporary social issues or Quebec's rich heritage, Musée de la Civilisation offers an insightful journey that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the world around us. The museum is located in the Old Port. It regularly features activities and workshops for children, so it’s worth consulting its official website to plan your visit.

7. Sledding at Le Massif

I must say, sledding on a luge at Le Massif is one of the most fun winter activities in Quebec City I have ever done around my hometown. The luge trail stretches out for a thrilling 7.5 kilometres of downhill fun. From the summit of the mountain, there are breathtaking views of the St Lawrence River and surrounding snow-covered mountains.

A car is necessary to reach Le Massif from Quebec City as it's about a 75-minute drive away. If your budget allows it, I recommend staying the night at the nearby Club Med Hotel.

8. Aquarium du Quebec

One of the top things to do in Quebec City, the Aquarium du Quebec is home to an array of Nordic creatures that you don’t get to see elsewhere. This includes polar bears, seals, arctic foxes and owls. 

The two indoor pavilions are home to hundreds of varieties of fish and wildlife species. Seal and polar bear feeding shows are scheduled throughout the day too. It’s open year-round but the summer season offers a few more activities for kids. If the aquarium is your type of activity, make sure you read my detailed review and tips for visiting the Quebec Aquarium .

Related: Check out these other family activities in Quebec City .

9. Village Vacances Valcartier

• Winter and summer

Village Vacances Valcartier is a fun vacation spot. In the summer, you can enjoy a ton of water-based activities like water slides, lazy rivers and swimming pools at their awesome water park. When winter comes, the village turns into a magical snowy wonderland with thrilling adventures like snow tubing, ice skating and snow rafting. The easiest way to get there is by car and it’s only a 35-minute drive from Old Quebec.

10.  Ice Hotel

The Ice Hotel in Quebec City is an incredible seasonal hotel entirely made of ice and snow. It’s one of the top Quebec City attractions in winter, but the ultimate adventure is to book a stay and spend a night in one of the icy rooms. However, if that’s out of your budget or you’re not keen to stay overnight, you can still visit the hotel, including the ice bar and the ice chapel (if it isn’t hosting a wedding).

Conveniently located next to Village Vacances Valcartier, it's ideal to combine both visits in one day for an unforgettable icy adventure.

11. Observatoire de la Capitale

From Observatoire de La Capitale’s elevated vantage point, you can enjoy panoramic views of Quebec City and the surrounding landscape. The Observatoire is located in the tallest building in Quebec City so it offers 360-degree views of the city. You can spy Chateau Frontenac, Plains of Abraham and the Citadelle among other Quebec tourist attractions. Check out the next two items on this list for other great ways to see Quebec from above.

12.  Ciel! Bistro Bar

An alternative way to enjoy breathtaking views of Quebec City from up high is by visiting Ciel! Bistro Bar, Quebec's only revolving restaurant. Ciel! Bistro Bar offers a fantastic alternative to the Observatoire de la Capitale, as your money is spent on a culinary experience rather than an entrance ticket. Additionally, the restaurant boasts more flexible opening hours; providing you with ample opportunities to take in the panoramic vistas.

 13. Rooftop Heated Pool at Hilton Quebec

The Hilton Quebec features a rooftop heated pool open year-round. You don't even have to be a hotel guest to enjoy it! For a fee, the pool is open to the general public, allowing everyone to indulge in a refreshing swim while taking in the picturesque surroundings. You won’t get a 360-degree view and it is not nearly as high up as the Observatoire or Ciel! Bistro Bar, but you’ll still see a bit of Old Quebec from up high.

14.  Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

In Old Quebec, you can take a horse-drawn carriage guided tour of the Old Town. However, in my opinion, it can be a hit-or-miss experience since bookings are not available in advance. The waiting and pick-up spot for Quebec City carriage rides is at Places d'Armes near Chateau Frontenac (on Rue St-Louis, the opposite side of Chateau Frontenac).

15.  Bear Watching Near Quebec City

Most people don’t know that it’s possible to see black bears in their natural habitat near Quebec City. At Station Duchesnay, visitors have the incredible opportunity to see bears up close from the safety of a bus . This unique tour provides a typically North American and memorable experience. Duchesnay is a 45-minute drive from Old Quebec.   

If you’re visiting during the right season, you can also combine bear, moose, lynx and whale watching with this package offer on Get Your Guide . It’s a full-day tour offered in English that picks you up from your hotel.

16.  Dog Sledding at Lake Beauport

Book a dog sledding tour at Pourvoirie du Lac Beauport for an outdoor adventure with lovable husky pups. The pilot of the sled stands while the passenger sits in front, swapping spots halfway through the loop trail. This unique experience is a lot of fun but quite the cardio workout as the person in the back sometimes has to push or help the dogs uphill. The tour includes a well-equipped reception cabin where you’ll find restrooms, hot beverages and winter gear rental.

17.  Ski and Snowboard at Stoneham

Stoneham Ski Resort is one of the best spots near Quebec City for skiing and snowboarding. With a mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced runs, there are conditions for every level. Many visitors have a blast on the night trails at Stoneham as well. New skiers, snowboarders or anyone looking to hone their skills can take a lesson at the TELUS Winter Sports School too. The Alpins boutique also has top-of-the-line winter gear, equipment rentals and a repair shop. 

18.  Stay at Club Med Charlevoix

Luxury meets outdoor activities galore at Club Med Charlevoix. This all-inclusive resort outside Quebec City is perfect for couples or families looking for skiing, ice skating and luging in winter. In the summer, you can go biking, hiking or even whale watching! One major perk of Club Med Charlevoix is the unbeatable views of the Saint Lawrence River and Charlevoix Mountains. 

19.  Visit Benjo With Kids

If you’re travelling with children, one of the best activities in Old Quebec is visiting the Benjo Toy Store. Creative details like a mini VIP entrance for kids, a small train running on weekends and the giant robot named Monsieur Bidule make it the best toy store in Quebec. Inside, you’ll find everything from Legos and cars to dolls, soft toys, candy, books, puzzles and puppets. There is something for every curious kiddo at Benjo! 

20.  Quebec-Levis Ferry Ride

Take a ride on the Quebec-Levis Ferry to enjoy top-notch views of Old Quebec City and Chateau Frontenac from a distance. Once in Levis, explore the wharf area, which is home to several local eateries and cafes. You can choose to take your car across the Saint Lawrence River, load your bike onto the ferry to enjoy riverside trails or simply go on foot. 

21.  Parliament Building

The Parliament Building is one of the top things to do in Quebec City for history buffs as it dates back to 1877. This opulent building is a must-see stop where you can take a self-guided tour or sign up for a tour led by a historian. You’ll get to check out Quebecois artwork, grand French-style architecture, exhibits and the National Assembly Chamber itself. 

22.  Try Maple Toffee on Petit Champlain

Stop by La Petite Cabane à Sucre to taste some of Quebec City’s most iconic maple treats. Test out fresh maple syrup, maple butter and maple ice cream. Their famous maple taffy rolled on ice is especially a one-of-a-kind Canadian experience. La Petite Cabane à Sucre is located along the charming Petit Champlain in Lower Old Quebec. 

23.  Canyon Sainte-Anne

• May to October 

Hop in your car and take a 30-minute road trip from Quebec City to Canyon Sainte-Anne. Here, you’ll discover a roaring waterfall and gorge, suspension bridges, Via Ferrata (a mix of hiking and rock climbing) and even zip lines. Ride the exciting zip lines or trek the hiking trails in nature. Discover more itineraries for day trips from Quebec City . 

24. Funiculaire Ride

The Funiculaire Ride is the best way to travel from the Upper Town to the Lower Town via an escalator-style cable car. This is a lovely way to view Petit Champlain, the Old Port and the Saint Lawrence River. Buy tickets online beforehand or at the boarding points. One is behind the Fairmont Hotel along the edge of the Dufferin Terrace and the other is in the Louis Jolliet House if you’re coming from Basse Ville. Although there is usually a queue during Christmas time, the wait is worth it. 

25. Toboggan Slide on Terrasse Dufferin

The toboggan slide is one of the most exciting and oldest activities in Old Quebec, dating back to 1884. You can zoom down the ice tube track solo, with a buddy or fit up to four on your wooden sled. After your race to the bottom, you can buy another ticket to ride again. But get ready to trek back up the hill with your toboggan. The effort is worth the fantastic adrenaline rush!

26. Wendake

Wendake is known for its authentic Huron village recreations and is home to an array of local artisans. Fortunately, it’s located just outside of Quebec City. Visit the Onhoüa Cheteke Traditional Huron Site to learn about the local people of the Huron-Wendat Nation through exhibitions and demonstrations. Then stop by Musee Huron-Wendat to see artifacts and artwork. A trip to Wendake will show you a very interesting and important side of Québec culture.

27.  Restaurant Sagamité

Discover more about Huron-Wendat heritage through gastronomy at Sagamité restaurant. Named after a classic and hearty soup, Sagamité offers a menu of traditional recipes with a modern spin. The dishes represent the values of the Nation such as the house special, Yatista, which shows the importance of fire. Get a taste of indigenous cuisine at either of the Sagamité locations in Wendake or Quebec City. 

28. German Christmas Markets

• Winter (November 23 to December 23)

Get in the holiday spirit at the German Christmas Markets in Old Quebec, as Quebec City comes to life, decked out in Christmas lights and decorations. The European-style festival can be found at the Dufferin Terrace, Place d’Armes, Place d’Youville and along Rue Saint Anne. The month-long celebration hosts performances, Christmas choirs and carolers, festive activities, shopping and German holiday delicacies like bratwurst, cookies and mulled wine.  

Learn more about the delights you’ll find at the German Christmas Markets .

29. Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec)

• Winter (February)

Winter Carnival dates back to 1894 as a way to beat the cold, long winter. Today, the tradition lives on with 10 days of winter celebrations. This is one of the best things to do in Old Quebec in winter. Witness ice sculptures, an ice palace, lights and parades, and enjoy activities like skating, sleigh rides and canoe racing. Check the official schedule for exact times and dates and always keep your eyes peeled for Bonhomme, the Winter Carnival snowman mascot!

30. Grosse Île

• Summer to fall (May to October)

Grosse Île is one of the top historic things to do near Quebec City; offering a window into the past of Canada’s Irish immigrants. At the Irish Memorial National Historic Site, undergo a pretend medical inspection as the original immigrants did and then board a trolley to see more of the area.  Explore the island by bike or on foot, reaching Saint-Luc-de-la-Grosse-Île Village and the Irish cemetery along the interpretive trail. To get to Grosse Île by car, take the Les Croisières Lachance boat. 

After finishing this bumper blog post about my beloved hometown, you won’t be wondering: “What to do in Quebec City?”. From the top Quebec City tourist attractions to the best free things to do and family-friendly activities, I believe I’ve covered all bases from winter to summer and the seasons in between. I hope you enjoy your Quebec City vacation!

About the Author

Anne was born and raised in Quebec City. She is our resident expert for the city of Quebec and other popular regional destinations such as Charlevoix and Gaspésie. Having travelled to every corner of the province with her children, she is also our expert for family related topics on Quebec Wonders.

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75 of the Best Things To Do in Quebec

August 18, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 33 Comments

Things to Do in Quebec last updated: August 11th, 2021

As Canada’s largest province, as well as the only province whose sole official language is French, Quebec is an incredible destination rich in history, culture, and adventures. Located in Eastern Canada, Quebec borders Ontario to the west, New Brunswick to the east, the Hudson Bay to the north, and the United States to the south. With a rich history encompassing sieges and battles, the foundations of Quebec date back to the 16th century with remnants of the past still visible today.

We’ve explored Quebec many times, both in the winter and in the summer, and always look forward to going back. Whether it’s roaming the streets of Old Montreal, exploring the walled city of Quebec, whale watching in Tadoussac, sleeping with wolves in Montebello, or playing with falcons in Mont Tremblant, Quebec has become one of our favourite places to visit.

Whether you’re planning to explore the cities, the beaches, the mountains, or everything in-between, we’ve got you covered in this comprehensive travel guide to the wonderful province of Quebec!

Table of Contents

Getting to Quebec

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Quebec, here’s some practical advice on how to get here.

Getting to Quebec by Car

If you’re planning to drive to Quebec, it’s located to the east of Ontario and to the west of New Brunswick. It’s also north of New York, Vermont, and Maine. The province of Quebec is literally right next to Ottawa and Montreal is less than two hours drive from Ottawa as well. Due to the amount of things to do and its central location, it makes for an excellent Canadian road trip. Rental cars are plentiful as well, whether you’re arriving by plane, bus, or train. We typically recommend using Priceline to search car rental prices as well as hotels. (affiliate link)

Getting to Quebec by Plane

Quebec is home to many airports with the main two located in Montreal and in Quebec City. These two major airports are the Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport in Montreal and the Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport. The driving distance between these two airports is approximately three hours.

Both airports offer rental cars, making it easy to grab your own transportation and hit the open road.

Getting to Quebec by Bus

Due to its size ad popularity, Quebec is easily accessible by bus. We always use Busbud as our first option for finding different bus routes, but here are some options below:

Greyhound: Visitors travelling by bus from the USA can come into Montréal via Greyhound. If you would like to go to Quebec City, you would then transfer to the Orléans Express bus for Québec City.

Orléans Express: The Orléans Express Coach Lines provide daily service between Québec City, Montréal, and other destinations in the province.

Fédération des transporteurs par autobus – Intercity Transit: Accessible to all, the intercity transportation network consists of 222 bus stations throughout Québec for efficient, timely travel.

Intercar: Intercar links Québec City with Saguenay, Lac-Saint-Jean, Charlevoix, and all destinations along the North Shore (Côte-Nord).

Getting to Quebec by Train

If you’d like to stroll into Quebec via train, this is also a possibility thanks to both VIA Rail and Amtrak.

VIA Rail Canada: You’ll find daily VIA Rail Canada service between Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal and Québec City.

Amtrak: Visitors travelling by train from the USA will come to Montréal via Amtrak. For Quebec City, you’d then transfer to VIA Rail Canada trains for Québec City.

Getting Around Quebec

Quebec is a big province. However, many of its popular attractions are in the southern portion of the province, which makes it relatively easy to get around. Due to this and all the activities, it’s possible to get around by car, by bus, or even by an organized tour. On nice sunny days, both Montreal and Quebec City can also be explored by bicycle.

Fun Facts about Quebec

• The Chateau Frontenac Hotel holds the Guinness World Record for the most photographed hotel in the world!
• Quebec manufactures more than 77% of the world’s maple syrup. In total, Canada produces 80% of the world’s supply. It was also invented in Quebec in the 17 or 1800s.
• It has the oldest English language newspaper in North America.
• Quebec is the only officially French-speaking province

For more amazing facts, check out our article about some of the most interesting facts about Canada .

Best Time to Visit Quebec

Quebec is home to some pretty extreme weather. You’ll find scorching hot summers and extremely cold winters. It also varies depending on where you are. For example, Quebec City gets far more snow than Montreal, and if you’re visiting Quebec’s far north, you’ll experience a much colder winter than you would in the south. Overall though, as long as you dress properly, Quebec is a popular destination in all seasons.

Like much of Canada, the most popular time to visit Quebec is during the summer months, followed by both the fall and the spring. Winter also draws some crowds, especially those seeking to experience the Quebec Winter Carnival or skiing at Mont Tremblant. However, accommodation in the summer months is significantly more expensive and can sell out at certain times. Booking in advance is critical during these times.

As mentioned, Quebec is popular in all four seasons. For example, summer is great for general outdoor activities and festivals. The spring is a great time to find fresh maple syrup. Quebec is also one of the best places in Canada to view beautiful fall foliage and the winters are home to an array of outdoor activities and winter festivals.

If you want to avoid the tourist season, come in April, May, or June, rather than July, August, or September. Winter is also the best time to visit Old Québec, which can look quite magical under a blanket of snow.

Average temperatures throughout the year (high/low):

June: 22 oC, 72 oF / 11 oC, 52 oF July: 25 oC, 77 oF / 14 oC, 57 oF August: 24 oC, 75 oF / 13 oC, 55 oF

September: 18 oC, 64 oF / 8 oC, 46 oF October: 11 oC, 52 oF / 2 oC, 36 oF November: 3 oC, 37 oF / -4 oC, 25 oF

December: -4 oC, 25 oF / -13 oC, 9 oF January: -8 oC, 18 oF / -18 oC, 0 oF February: -6 oC, 21 oF / -16 oC, 3 oF

March: 0 oC, 32 oF / -9 oC, 16 oF April: 8 oC, 46 oF / -1 oC, 30 oF May: 17 oC, 63 oF / 5 oC, 41 oF

Road to 150 – Quebec Road Trip

Quebec was our fifth stop during our 150-day road trip across Canada. We spent approximately two weeks in Quebec, whale watching in Tadassouc, learning about history in Quebec City, exploring the vibrant city of Montreal, sleeping in treehouses, and playing with falcons in Mont Tremblant. We packed a lot of adventures into our short visit but we’ve been back many times since, doing new things like experiencing Quebec’s Winter Carnival, sleeping with wolves at Parc Omega, and indulging in North America’s largest spa in Chelsea.

There is so much to do in Quebec, for both outdoor lovers and city slickers. Whether you’re looking for incredible natural parks to explore, charming small towns, First Nations culture, or bustling cities, Quebec is the place to be!

You can learn more about our 150-day Canadian road trip by clicking here .

What to Do in Quebec

We’ve explored Quebec many times and as you’ve probably learned by now, we love it. So, while we certainly don’t have space here to provide a list of every single thing to do in Canada’s largest province, we have compiled 74 incredibly awesome things to do in the most popular areas to visit in La Belle Province .

Things to Do in Montreal

One of Canada’s most famous cities, Montreal is a cosmopolitan, European-style city that has become one of the top travel destinations in the country. Located in the mostly French-speaking province of Quebec, Montreal is actually one of the five largest French-speaking cities in the world. However, it also has more English speakers than any other place in the province. It’s home to lots of history, museums, art galleries, and so much more.

Wander around Old Montreal

This is where it all started for one of the world’s most famous cities. Home to cobblestone streets bordered by 17th-, 18th- and 19th-century buildings, Old Montreal is the best place to explore by foot. Wander the old streets, check out the art galleries, eat at the French restaurants, and shop at the many souvenir shops while taking photos at every corner. Another option is to take a Local Montreal Food Tour , which will bring you around to different foodie spots, enjoying things like poor man’s pudding, scrumptious bagels, and more.

Visit Place d’Armes and the Notre Dame Basilica

While wandering around Old Montreal, take the time to visit Place d’Armes, which is the second oldest site in Montreal. You’ll probably make it here regardless since it’s where you’ll find the Notre-Dame Basilica , which is one of the most visited monuments in North America. While the square is free to visit, there is a charge to enter the church ($15 CAD). The Notre-Dame Basilica is a 17th-century Gothic Revival Basilica with dual towers that easily capture the eye from the outside. Inside, however, is regarded as one of the most dramatic in the world with religious paintings, intricate wooden carvings, religious statues, deep blue vaults, and gold-lead decoration, not to mention the 7,000-pipe organ.

Visit the Montreal Biodome

Price: $19.75/Adult, $10/Children ages 5-17

Whether you visit the city in the summer or the winter, the Montréal Biodôme is a great place for the whole family. Home to five ecosystems from the Americas, it’s a wonderful place to get immersed in nature while learning about the different environments. The biodome houses more than 250,000 animals from about 220 different species and 500 plant species and is one of the few places in the world to reproduce the complexity of the natural environment and the interactions between animal and plant species.

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts

If you’re into the arts, this is the place for you. This is the largest art museum in Canada by gallery space. Located in the historic Golden Square, this museum is spread out over a massive total floor area of 571,510 square feet. Inside, you’ll find a permanent collection of over 44,000 works and is home to the oldest art library in Canada.

Visit the Botanical Garden (or Jardin Botanique)

If you’re looking for a slice of nature within the city, you’ll want to visit the Jardin Botanique , which just so happens to be the second-largest botanical garden in the world. Opened in 1931 and designated a National Historic Site in Canada in 2008, it showcases ten indoor greenhouses, such as a Chinese garden, a Japanese garden, a beautiful First Nations Garden, and a rose garden. In total, the botanical garden comprises 190 acres of thematic gardens and greenhouses and is considered to be one of the most important botanical gardens in the world.

Explore the Montreal Biosphere

This one-of-a-kind museum is dedicated to the environment and is located in the former pavilion of the United States for the 1967 World Fair, Expo 67. It’s a beautiful place and a great way to learn about climate change, how the environment works, and our effect on the planet. There are really cool exhibits and a 4D, 360-degree theatre.

Climb Mount Royal

The city of Montreal stretches across the horizon from the lookout atop Mount Royal , a 200-hectare park in the middle of the city that includes the highest point in Montreal. Walking trails throughout the park offer an airy, green relief from the developed city.

Explore the Underground City

Inspired by the cold winters, The Underground City (also known as RÉSO) is a series of interconnected office towers, shopping centres, hotels, convention halls, universities, and performing arts venues. The name is a little misleading in the sense that it refers to the entire complex, consisting of the underground connections between the buildings and its integration with the city’s underground rapid transit system. Think of it as an indoor city where you can accomplish many things without stepping foot outdoors.

La Ronde Amusement Park

Price: $46.99 – $63.99. Children 2 and under are free. Discounts available online.

Owned and operated by Six Flags, La Ronde is the largest amusement park in Quebec and one of the largest in Canada. It’s home to a variety of epic rollercoasters as well as a new Virtual Reality Roller Coaster that transports riders into an alien invasion through wireless headsets as they soar down Goliath. However, there are also family-friendly rides and a variety of shows, shopping and dining options.

Place des Arts

This cultural and artistic complex, the largest of its kind in Canada, is the hub of artistic activity in Quebec. Whether you watch the ballet, attend an opera, or listen to Quebec’s best french artists, Place des Arts is a grandiose venue for music, theatre, and comedy.

Jump out of a Plane

If you’re looking for adrenaline, have you considered jumping out of a plane at 13,500 feet? If so, Parachute Montreal uses some of the best technology and training methods in Canada’s largest dropzone. Experience an incredible 60-second freefall, soaring through the air at 200 km/hour, until the parachute is pulled. After that, it becomes a little more serene as the next 5-8 minutes offer stunning views across the Eastern Townships near Montreal. This activity is located approximately 30 minutes from Montreal.

Visit the Montreal Holocaust Memorial Center

Price: $8/Adults, $5/seniors and students.

We all know about the atrocities committed by the nazis just a few decades ago. Now you can learn even more by visiting the Montreal Holocaust Memorial Center as it goes into the dark topic of anti-Semitism, racism, hate and indifference.

Montreal Science Center

Price: $8-24.

Home to the Telus IMAX theatre, as well as special events, games, and experiments, the  Montreal Science Centre  is a great place for those interested in innovation and discovery. Exhibitions range from gadgets to human evolution, involving visitors in every process.

Price: From $12.95 to $38.95. Children under 2 free.

Although it’s not located in Montreal, it’s not too far away. Built in 1953, the Granby Zoo is one of Quebec’s top tourist attractions, allowing visitors to see the animals of Africa, South America, Oceania, Asia, and the South Pacific.

Go Train-crazy at Exporail

Price: From $4 – $18.

Located in Saint-Constant, not too far from Montreal, this  Canadian Railway Museum has educational activities for the whole family. Take a ride on a miniature train, streetcar, or passenger train or attend a theme day. Young or old, if you’re into trains, this is a great place to go!

Laval Nature Center

Kids will especially love this one. Spend the day playing with farm animals and enjoying 50 hectares of green space at the Nature Center in Laval. During the summer months, kids can also take a pony ride for $3. A small train offers transport around the recreational area for $3 per person, making it a special treat for kids or those young at heart.

For more, check out our detailed guide about the best things to do in Montreal .

Things to Do in Quebec City

Québec City sits along the St. Lawrence River in the mostly french-speaking province of Quebec. Dating all the way back to 1608, it features a unique European charm, a fortified colonial core, a parliament building modelled after the famous Louvre Museum in Paris, and a variety of stone buildings and cobblestone streets. It’s easily one of Canada’s most beautiful cities and is only a 3-hour drive from world-famous Montreal.

Old Quebec and the Walled City

Old Quebec (Vieux Quebec) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is full of museums, restaurants, and shops. Horse-drawn carriage rides and the New French-style architecture give the quarter a distinctly European feel, making it a beautiful place to walk around. It’s also home to the Fortifications of Quebec, making it the only walled city north of Mexico. The fort circles Upper Town in a 4.6 kilometre stone circle, along which pedestrians can stroll around while looking down on Old Quebec from scattered canons that give a feeling for the historical military presence over the city.

Stroll through Quartier Petit Champlain

Located within Old Quebec, this is quite possibly the prettiest street in the country. Browse boutiques, art galleries, jewelry stores, and sweet shops along this quaint, cobblestone pedestrian street. When your feet get tired of wandering, there are plenty of restaurants, pubs, and cafes to sit down and indulge in.

Take a Historical Walking Tour

Thanks to its charming cobblestone streets and a European feel, Old Quebec is one of the most visited areas in all of Canada. It really is a beautiful place but it’s much better if you take a historical walking tour to learn about the history of one of Canada’s oldest cities. We did ours with Xavier from Toursbylocals.com and he was both excellent and passionate at telling us all about local areas and taking us around the city for some good vantage points to take photos from. highly recommended!

Go on a Cruise

If you’d like a relaxing sightseeing tour of the surrounding area, this might be the tour for you. You’ll get live commentary from a costumed member of the crew and you’ll get to see Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls, and other sights from the boat. Another option if you’re just looking for a view of Old Quebec is to take the ferry to Levis.

Quebec to Levis Ferry

Price: From $2.40 – $3.55 per person.

The Levis Ferry crosses the St. Lawrence River from Old Quebec to Levis. The ferry is also part of a beautiful bicycle route that extends from the Littoral in Quebec City to Parcours des Anses in Levis. The crossing only takes about 12 minutes, but the ride offers gorgeous views of the North and South shores from the water. This is a cheap way to get views of the city from the water.

Montmorency Falls

If you like waterfalls, Montmorency Falls is a great place to go! This powerful waterfall is actually taller than Niagara Falls and can be seen from all sorts of angles thanks to the walking loop, which includes a bridge that lets you peek down over the falls. If you don’t mind getting wet, you can then walk to the lower platform where you’ll feel the power of the falls as the water, wind, and mist pelt you like a hurricane. This was my favourite part of the walking loop as it felt like such an adventure. It’s really impressive how powerful the waterfall is. You can then take a scenic gondola back up to the top.

Huron-Wendat Museum

If you’re looking to learn about the indigenous culture around Quebec City, this is the place to go. Not only is it a beautiful building filled with artifacts but there’s also a real traditional longhouse that you can walk in and experience. I had no idea these existed until I visited the Huron-Wendat Museum . We then made bannock over the fire. Amazing place!

Visit Ste-Anne-de-Beaupre Basilica

Price: $2/person. Mass is free.

Beautiful white spires, stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork make this sanctuary one of the most beautiful churches in all of Canada. Saint Anne, to whom the shrine is dedicated, was Mary’s mother. The Basilica is open daily 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. While the church is not located in Quebec City, it’s only 30km east along the St. Lawrence  River.

Admire Quebec’s Parliament

Home to the government of Quebec, this 19th-century building has eight floors and stands 52 meters high. Unique from other Canadian Parliament buildings, it features the Second Empire architectural style. The building’s facade and grounds include twenty-two statues of influential individuals from Quebec’s history. Visitors can take a free, 45-minute guided tour beginning at the Visitors Centre.

Visit the Plains of Abraham

In 1759 and 1760, the Battle of Quebec took a pivotal turn at the Plains of Abraham . It was here that the British conquered Quebec and the fate of North America was sealed. The park has witnessed many deaths, including fallen soldiers and executions. These days, the park is not only historic, but it is also beautiful as it is home to 103-hectares of meadows, grassy hills and fresh air.

Citadelle de Quebec

Price: From $6 – $16/Adult.

For history buffs, this is a unique opportunity to experience 100 years of history at the Citadelle, an active military fortress and museum atop Cape Diamond, the highest natural point in the area. Built between 1820 and 1850, the Citadelle is the largest British fortress built in North America. Wander between canons, listen to a guided tour and watch the changing of the guards.

Place Royale and Old Port

Back in 1608, Samuel de Champlain chose this place to start a trading post. Oh, how the times have changed. Now, it’s a bustling market that’s become the home of many merchants and ship owners. Located in Quebec City’s Lower Town, the square sits the oldest stone church in Quebec, as well as an incredible fresco that traces 400 years of Quebecois history.

Stroll La Promenade de Samuel Champlain

Walk, run or cycle next to the water along the Promenade de Samuel Champlain. The four sections of the promenade include Station des Cageux (a wetland with access to a waterslide), Boisé de Tequenonday (which has a small lookout with a wonderful view), Station des Sports (which contains two soccer fields and a multi-use grass area) and Station des Qais (the cultural focal point of the Promenade). Wherever you go, you’ll be next to the water.

Get a View from the Observatory

Price: From $11 – $14. Free for children under 12.

If you’re looking for the best view of Quebec City, you’ll want to head up to the highest point in the city at the Observatorie de la Capitale. Offering a 360-degree panoramic view of Quebec City, this 31-floor, 221 metre-high structure is Quebec’s tallest. From the top floor, visitors can see all the way out to the Appalachian Foothills, the Laurentians and île d’Oréans.

The Museum of Civilization

Price: From $5 – $16.

Established in 1984 under the National Museums Act, Musée de la Civilisation is a government-run corporation, showcasing the creativity, culture and history of Quebec through touring exhibitions, guided tours and artifact collections.

Aquarium de Quebec

Home to over 10,000 fish, as well as reptiles, amphibians, polar bears, walruses and seals, the Quebec Aquarium is a popular attraction. Spread out over 16 hectares, both indoors and outdoors, there are educational shows throughout the day.

Jacques-Cartier National Park

Located just 30-minutes away, Jacques-Cartier National Park is the perfect place to explore the outdoors. With over 100 kilometres of hiking trails, a winding river, and deep valleys formed by glaciers spanning 670 square kilometres, this park is an adventure-lovers haven. The Eastern Borealis forest offers practically endless activities including canoeing, kayaking, dog sledding, horseback riding, skiing, tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, bird watching, rafting,  golfing, and mountain biking.

The Brousseau and Brousseau Inuit Art Gallery

If you’re looking for some incredible indigenous artwork, this is the place to go. Showcasing the best work by Inuit artists in Quebec, this gallery represents the regions of Nunavik, Kivalliq, Kitikmeot, Baffin and Inuvialuit. Pieces include serpentine sculptures and caribou wood carvings for sale.

Carnaval de Quebec (winter)

Quebec’s Winter Carnival is an annual event that includes an ice palace, an international snow sculpture competition, a winter canoe race and a night parade. Since 1894, the Quebecois have been celebrating with winter-themed activities to keep them warm in the brutal, long winters. It is the largest winter festival in Canada and the second-largest in the world.

Snowboard at Mont Saint Anne (winter)

If you’re in Quebec City during the winter months, head out to Mont Saint Anne for some skiing and snowboarding while catching glimpses of the might St. Lawrence River. There are plenty of other activities on and off the alpine mountain as well, including ice skating, paragliding or soaking in a Nordique spa.

Ski at Le Massif de Charlevoix (winter)

Another great ski resort near Quebec City is Le Massif. Soar down the highest slope east of the Rockies on your skis or snowboard. With 52 trails, the majority of which are rated “Extremely Difficult”, this is no little hill (although they do have a bunny hill for beginners).  They also have a terrain park and trails for tobogganing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Sleep in an Ice Hotel

During the cold winter months, Quebec City is home to the only ice hotel in North America! It’s truly an astonishing piece of art and architecture with more than 20 themed rooms and many other basic rooms, all made out of ice- even the bed! We didn’t spend the night during our visit but we did visit and take a tour to marvel at how beautiful it really is. Plus, you can get a drink in an ice glass, so that’s pretty cool too.

Dog Sledding (winter)

If you’re visiting during the winter months and want to feel the exhilaration of being pulled by 6 excited huskies, then you’ll want to head out to St-Ètienne-de-Lauzon and do some dog-sledding. You and your partner can switch off being the musher, or opt to have a guide steer the dogs around. Now that’s Canadian!

For more, check out our detailed guide about things to do in Quebec City in the Winter !

Things to do around Saguenay Quebec

Located north of Quebec City and straddling the St. Lawrence Seaway, the Saguenay area is known for its charming small towns, beautiful natural scenery, and incredible whale watching opportunities.

Whale Watching in Tadoussac

Located just three hours from Quebec City in the small town of Tadoussac, the best area in Quebec for whale watching. Choose the type of boat you’d like to board or find a good viewpoint from the shoreline and get ready for some action. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a number of marine animals (including 12 specifics of whales) breaking the surface of the water in the St. Lawrence and the Saguenay Rivers. We’ve done this tour a couple of times and have seen dozens of humpback whales breach the water. Whale watching in Tadoussac offers some of the best whale watching in Canada !

Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre

Price: $10.50/adult but free for children.

When not out seeing whales with your own eyes, go and explore Canada’s sea life in this interactive, multimedia centre. You’ll learn about marine animals through a collection of skeletons and even a singing lesson from a whale.

Musée d’art Contemporaire Baie-Saint-Paul

Designed by award-winning architect Pierre Thibault, the building itself a work of art. Inside, however, guests will find a collection that carries over 400 beautiful works. The famous names in the history of painting in Quebec and high-quality exhibitions showcased by the art gallery have led to its recognition as a museum.

Site Historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père

Price: From $17 – $24/adult. Children 7 and under free.

Dive into more than 200 years of history at this Maritime Museum , climbing aboard The Onondaga, Canada’s only publicly accessible submarine. Learn about the sinking of The Empress of Ireland and experience what life was like in Quebec in 1914, when the ship sank. Join a guided tour and explore lighthouse buildings built in 1909. Open June through October.

Go Sea Kayaking

Sea kayaking has become a popular adventure sport throughout the Saguenay region. Paddle through Saguenay Fjord for a few hours on a guided expedition or take a 3-day, 2-night kayak tour to the St. Lawrence estuary. For those seeking adventure, this is the perfect opportunity. Receive training, high-quality equipment and gourmet meals with Fjord en Kayak’s overnight packages.

Saguenay Fjord National Park

Does it get any more beautiful? Yes! Ranked as the top thing to do in the area, many cruise ships stop here to admire the incredible forest and mountain scenery. For those seeking adventure, consider the challenging Via Ferrata for incredible views or jump on an inflatable Zodiac boat for a tour from the Rivière Saguenay.

Things to Do in Gatineau

Bordering Canada’s capital city, Gatineau shares a lot of tourism with Ottawa. It’s home to some incredible things to do, such as the Canadian Museum of History, and is often someone’s first entry into the province of Quebec. From here, you can also drive to Montreal in approximately two hours.

Canadian Museum of History

Price: From $9 – $15.

The Canadian Museum of History is Canada’s national museum of human history with special and permanent exhibits, a children’s museum, interactive activities, and a cinema. Both inside and outside, it’s an absolute work of art. Located right across the bridge from Ottawa and offering some of the best views of the parliament buildings, this is the most visited museum in all of Canada.

Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park is a very accessible and enjoyable park in all seasons. Whether you go boating in the summer or cross-country skiing in the winter, it’s a popular place for locals to get outdoors. Plus, Champlain Lookout offers the most popular view from the park over the Ottawa Valley.

INAC Gallery

Those seeking indigenous art will want to visit the INAC art collection, which is comprised of over 4,000 works of contemporary Aboriginal art. In the late 1960s, INAC became the first federal government institution to support the development of Aboriginal art in Canada. The gallery features scheduled exhibitions and showcases a selection of this large, dynamic collection. Plus, it’s free!

Go Zip-lining

Price: From $26 – $36

For those seeking some fun and adrenaline, this is your chance to soar through the forest at La Fleche Park. Soar across 45 suspended bridges and 9 zip lines, leading you from tree to tree and across a lake before scaling a rock wall with the help of Via Ferrata. It makes for a fun day but If heights aren’t your thing, you can also go below the earth on a Cave Tour or challenge your friends to a GPS race!

Seek Art at Axenéo7

Ran by artists, for artists, Axenéo7 is dedicated to promoting and pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. The gallery invites artists to submit their work and is open to critiquing art while improving artists’ conditions for creation.

Nordik Spa-Nature

Although not located in Gatineau, it’s only 15-minutes away in Chelsea, making it one of the awesome things to do in Ottawa or in Gatineau. This is an adult paradise, featuring 10 exterior baths, 9 distinct saunas, a panoramic pool, a floating salt-water pool, numerous resting places, a yoga and meditation room, an exfoliation room, outdoor massage pavilions, and 4 restaurants.

For more, check out our detailed guide about things to do in Ottawa !

Things to do in the Gaspe peninsula

Known for being one of the best Canada road trips , the Gaspe Peninsula is incredibly scenic. If you’re looking for stunning coastal views and outdoor adventure, add this place to your bucket list.

Forillon National Park

If you’re looking to get up close and personal with sea lions or watching whales breach the surface, make your way to Forillon National Park . Besides taking a dip in the water, you can also tour several historical buildings and check out World War II gun installations.

Gaspésie National Park

Home to mountains and a variety of wildlife, Gaspésie National Park is a great place for hikers and wildlife photographers. You can also have a variety of accommodation options, choosing to stay overnight on the alpine tundra or sleep in luxury in the 4-star Gîte du Mont-Albert Hotel.

Go Heli-Skiing

Canada’s eastern ski terrain is often ignored for the world-class mountain resorts in the west…but that also means it’s virtually untouched. Create your own tracks through fresh powder on a full- or half-day heli-skiing excursion. Auberge Chic-chac (hostel) organizes overnight packages that include meals and a night at the hostel. This is located in the Chic-Choc Mountains of Murdochville. Prices range from $1,100 for full-day one night, three meals; $650 for half-day, one night, three meals.

Hike the Appalachian Trail

If hiking is your thing, the Appalachian Trail should be high on your bucket list. Quebec Adventure organizes 4-day, 4-night shelter-to-shelter trips for groups of 8 or less in partnership with Parcs Quebec. All meals and transportation are included.

Reford Gardens

Price: $10 – $20/Adult. Children 13 and under free.

In 1926, Elsie Reford decided to plant a garden in her fishing camp along the St. Lawrence River. Despite numerous hurdles, the construction was finished in 10 years. Her garden was a marvel of exotic and beautiful plants and is now a publicly accessible National Historic Site.

Things to Do in Mont Tremblant & Surrounding Area

Just 2-hours outside of Montreal is the Mont Tremblant ski resort and national park. This is a great place to go for experiencing nature and trying a variety of fun adventurous activities.

Mont Tremblant National Park

Parc National du Mont-Tremblant is Quebec’s second-largest national park, and one of the most accessible as well. Home to six rivers and hundreds of lakes, it’s a great destination for paddlers and beach bums. This beautiful area is home to 40 different types of animals that enjoy the park as much as human visitors do.

Mont Tremblant Gondola

Whether you take the gondola both ways or hike to the top and take it down, seeing the surrounding area from the top of the mountain is a must-do. You’ll see the beautiful Laurentian mountains in all their glory as well as the village.

Ziptrek Ecotours

If you like zip lines or have always wanted to try one, this is one of the best in Canada! Five zip-lines, some of which are over 3,000 feet long, will take you across various mountains, allowing you to reach speeds of up to 100 km/h while enjoying mind-blowing views. You can even go upside down! Ziptrek Ecotours also takes the time to teach you about the local environment and ecology. This was a blast!

Birds of Prey Apprentice-Falconer Walk

Have you ever wanted to see a hawk up close? How about having one land on your arm? The Apprentice-Falconer Walk is an incredible experience. I was mesmerized by the incredible agility of the hawk and how effortlessly he flew from tree to tree and right onto my arm to eat his raw chicken. It was a beautiful experience and afterwards, we went to the Birds of Prey show, where we got to see different owls, birds, and a bald eagle up close and personal. Highly recommended.

Mont-Tremblant Treehouses

If you’re looking for a place to get into nature, I highly recommend staying at Les Refuges Perches, otherwise known as Mont-Tremblant Treehouses. Located right on a quiet lake, the only annoyance you might find is a woodpecker in a nearby tree. You can’t even drive to the treehouse. You either have to walk 20-minutes or paddle a canoe for 12-minutes, which adds to the adventure. You’ll get a campfire, a dock for the canoe, and a beautiful tree-house that’s fully equipped. We really loved swimming in the lake, paddling the canoe, and walking around the various trails. Back at the main lodge, you’ll find hot clean showers and WiFi if you need it. This was one of our favourite places to stay during our trip across Canada.

Excursion Yoga

If you like yoga and being in nature, Excursion Yoga is for you. This isn’t something we’ve tried yet but we can’t imagine a better spot for yoga than on top of a mountain looking out at an incredible view. A typical day out includes 2+ hours of hiking, 1+ hours of yoga, and a 30-minute picnic.

Snowshoeing (winter)

One of the most iconic Canadian activities is snowshoeing. It’s also one of the easiest activities for people to do. With all the adventurous wilderness in Mont Tremblant, it’s the perfect opportunity to strap on snowshoes and go trekking through the vast, white wilderness—which can also include visiting a traditional log cabin and indulging in fondue next to a wood-burning fire.

Snowmobiling (winter)

Price: $99 and up

For those seeking winter speed, you’ll want to jump on a snowmobile and go soaring through the trails. Arctic Adventure rents out snowmobiles and organizes half-day and full-day snowmobile tours around Entrelacs. Cross snow-covered forests and drive over deeply frozen lakes, all led by a knowledgeable guide. Whether you want to go full-throttle or explore at a leisurely pace, seeing Quebec by snowmobile is an awesome experience.

Other Things to Do and See in Quebec

Located almost half-way between both Montreal and Ottawa, this Canadian safari park is home a range of local wildlife, including elk, bison, black bears, caribou, and perhaps the most famous of them all – grey wolves. Open year-round, guests drive around the park while admiring the animals from inside their vehicle. However, there are two additional activities that make this place unique. First, you are able to feed carrots to some of the animals right from your window. Second, you can actually stay the night in a wolf cabin and have wolves wander up to your floor-to-ceiling window all night long. Please note that motorcycles are not allowed.

Magdalen Islands

It might not be the Caribbean but it sort of looks like it in the photos. The Magdalen Islands (Îles de la Madeleine) have a unique ecosystem that has become a popular vacation spot for Quebecers and Canadians alike. Home to spectacular beaches, fauna, flora, fisheries, and landscapes rich with red and grey sandstone fill the islands, visitors can partake in a plethora of activities such as hiking, cycling or just relaxing on the white-sand beaches.

Once again, two weeks was just not enough to fully explore the huge province of Quebec but it certainly gave us a good taste! We hope you find this list useful in planning your next adventure and if you have any other recommendations, please let us know!

Learn about Inuit culture at Parcs Nunavik

For those seeking a true adventure, Parcs Nunavik takes guests on a 9-day guided expedition to the Summit of Mount D’Iberville, the highest peak in Quebec at an elevation of 1,652 metres. Hikers will learn about Inuit culture from their guides as they trek up the mountain. Talk about an exciting experience! This place is off-the-beaten-track, located in the Torngat Mountains, along the border between Quebec and Labrador

Parc National d’Anticosti

If you’re looking for somewhere truly special and far from the norm, this might be the ticket. Few places in the world are as remote and unspoiled as Anticosti Island. Meet the lighthouse keepers, go fly-fishing and explore the national park for a serene island escape with very few other people.

La Mauricie National Park

Located not too far from both Quebec City and Montreal, this national park allows you to get out into the wild without venturing too far. However, you can be as remote as you want with over 150 lakes, numerous waterfalls, and plenty of trails. Whether you hear the beautiful call of a loon or not, this is a great place to get away from it all.

Aiguebelle National Park

Located a little farther north than most venture, you’ll find beautiful Aiguebelle National Park with its blue waters, lush green valleys, and unbelievable sunsets. This park has a number of features as well, including a 22-metre-high suspended footbridge, rustic shelters, a spiral staircase, and a floating walkway.

Lake Témiscouata National Park

Located almost on the border between Quebec and New Brunswick, you’ll find Lake Témiscouata National Park, which is home to eight hiking trails and a beautiful lake that’s perfect for paddleboarding, pedal boating, kayaking, and fishing.

Kuururjuaq National Park

To visit Kuururjuaq National Park, you’ll need to be a true adventurer. Located up towards Nunavut at the ver northern stretched of Quebec,  you’ll find 4,000 square kilometres of stunning nature that is also an important cultural and spiritual region for the Inuit who call it home. Parc Nunavik leads guided expeditions through the park for visitors who don’t know where to start.

Frontenac National Park

Located in-between Montreal and Quebec City, close to the American border, is Frontenac National Park. Here you can canoe or kayak through the third largest lake south of St. Lawrence as well as go bird-watching to find the 200 species of birds throughout the park. You may even find wild orchids and rare carnivore plants.

Popular Quebec Festivals and Events

Quebec is great at throwing parties. Whether you’re looking to celebrate Francophone culture, dance to live jazz music, cheer on cyclists at the Grand Prix, or party outdoors in the snow, there’s a festival for everything! Below are just some of the popular ones.

Quebec Winter Carnival (winter)

We mentioned this in the Quebec City section as well but it just can’t be overlooked. As the largest winter festival in the world outside of China, it’s a special experience. From tobogganing to an ice canoe race and lively parade, people travel from all around to experience this.

Igloofest (Winter)

Throughout January and February, top national and international DJs take over Montreal’s Old Port once the sun goes down. This 4-week festival mixes electronic music with ice slides, sumo wrestling and a marshmallow roast. Since it’s all outdoors, you’ve got to dance to stay warm!

Festival des Surcres (Spring)

Located in a maple grove, the forest comes alive with cozy fireplaces and traditional country music each and every spring. The Festival des Surcres festival celebrates the Quebecois cultural creation of maple taffy on snow. This is one of our favourite sweets. It’s soooooo good.  It is also one of Quebec’s oldest festivals. Beyond sugary treats, there are family-friendly activities, such as a folk gala, softball tournament, and inflatable games.

The Montreal International Jazz Festival (Summer)

For jazz lovers out there, this is one festival you don’t want to miss! Every year, the Quartier des Spectacles transforms into a music-lovers haven for 10 days in June and/or July. Featuring 3,000 artists from across the globe, this is an inclusive event for families, friends, seniors and singles. Even better? Two-thirds of the concerts are free!

Les FrancoFolies de Montreal (Summer)

Francophone culture is celebrated across Canada and throughout the world but the biggest celebration of French culture, language, and music takes place every year in Montreal at the Les FrancoFolies de Montreal. Enjoy live world beat, electronic, and rock music at indoor and outdoor shows.

Just for Laughs Festival (Summer)

When it comes to comedy, Just for Laughs is king. Street festivals, galas, solo and theatre performances, and concerts and special events are all a part of the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal, the largest comedy fest in the world. Come for one of 1,200 free outdoor shows or stay for the entire weekend of eye-watering humour.

Things to Do Around Quebec

Well, that’s it, folks. This is certainly not an exhaustive list of every single thing there is to do in Canada’s largest province, but it’s enough to keep you busy for months, if not years. It’s certainly a special place and if you have even more time and want to see more, you’re in luck. Canada is awesome from coast to coast to coast.

For more things to do around Quebec and beyond, check out these articles below:

• Best Canada road trips
• Things to Do in Ottawa
• Things to Do in New Brunswick
• Exploring Saint Pierre and Miquelon
• Things to Do in Ontario

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About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

July 20, 2017 at 2:09 pm

Enjoying your adventures traversing Canada. I am jealous yet plan to visit more areas that you described.

July 20, 2017 at 11:43 pm

Thank you! Glad you enjoy them and that we’ve inspired you to travel Canada. Are you from Canada?

July 21, 2017 at 11:23 am

beautiful photography Matthew with awesome adventurous tour……….

April 3, 2021 at 11:28 am

Will bookmark this list a inspo for a Quebec road trip this summer (conditions permitting!)

April 4, 2021 at 11:23 pm

The ferry between Quebec City and Levi is worthwhile for a view of the city from the water.

May 12, 2021 at 8:22 am

A must see for any student graduating from French Immersion (or even 12 years of regular French classes) There’s nothing cooler than going to the Old City and feeling like you’re actually in Europe.

May 23, 2021 at 6:22 pm

My husband and I were hoping to go to Quebec this year, but due to restrictions it looks like we may have to wait for next year. We’ve been checking out the historic sites in particular and would love to do a day tour in Quebec City.

May 25, 2021 at 7:15 pm

I’d love to visit Quebec again!

May 26, 2021 at 2:42 pm

Great ideas for vacationing in my own province, which is necessary due to our well intentioned but draconian lockdown measures

May 30, 2021 at 12:42 pm

Wow I wish I saw this article before 👌

June 10, 2021 at 9:46 pm

The falls are amazing! I did a tour of sugar shacks and a cidery tour in the area as well that were amazing.

June 18, 2021 at 11:08 pm

The maple shack I really wants to go with maple syrup pancakes mmmmmmmm

June 25, 2021 at 12:06 am

Beautiful place. Seems like a really great place to put on my to do list

August 20, 2021 at 3:56 pm

I would love to Holiday at some of these places

February 7, 2022 at 1:52 pm

Amazing guide! We will be in Quebec in May so this helps a lot! Thank you!

March 10, 2022 at 1:04 pm

Quebec City is one of my most favourite places to visit in Canada.

March 16, 2022 at 2:45 pm

You missed the best part: Perce Rock in Gaspe, Quebec!

March 17, 2022 at 2:55 pm

Great suggestions! Quebec is definitely my favourite province.

March 18, 2022 at 2:22 pm

And the food scene is incredible in Montreal 🙂

April 2, 2022 at 6:50 am

Looking forward to exploring this post when I have more time! Plan on doing a family trip so and appreciate all this info!

April 14, 2022 at 12:30 am

Being born in Quebec you would think I would go there but alas I haven’t been since I was little. I want to go to Old Montreal

May 4, 2022 at 9:58 pm

Would love to visit Quebec

May 4, 2022 at 10:14 pm

We are planning to go see the whales this summer. Fun to read through some more fun ideas that we may not have thought of.

May 5, 2022 at 11:07 am

Some great ideas. This is one of my most favoruite places to visit.

May 20, 2022 at 7:06 am

Will definitely add to my list!

May 25, 2022 at 10:02 am

Great suggestions! Loved living in Montreal and exploring the province. Will definitely see some of these highlights on next visit back

May 25, 2022 at 9:48 pm

This was one of my favorite places in Canada to see! So much good food!

June 5, 2022 at 10:00 pm

So many great suggestions. Hopefully I can visit it one day with my family.

May 28, 2022 at 9:03 pm

I am from Quebec but left as a child. I would love to explore more now as an adult!

June 5, 2022 at 9:56 pm

Looking forward to visiting Quebec. This looks like a concise guide! Thanks!

September 4, 2022 at 7:27 am

Been to Quebec many times. In fact we had out honeymoon in Quebec City. Always stay at Le Bonne Entente whenever we’re on vacation there. Recommend going there in the fall.

December 18, 2022 at 8:51 pm

Just one point for you Matthew: you really should look at the camera LENS. It would make you much more present in the videos. Good job, otherwise! Keep up!

December 19, 2022 at 9:54 am

Thanks. Yeah, we did the first series more like a documentary but since then we do the more like vlogs.

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The 27 Best Things to do in Quebec City

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 11, 2024

If there is one place in North America that truly feels like a little slice of Europe, it is Quebec City. French explorer Samuel De Champlain established the first European settlement in Old Québec in the 17th Century and it has held onto its strong French traditions and heritage making it one of the best places to visit in Canada .

Things to do in Québec City, Canada

Be it winter or summer there are many things to do in Quebec City to enchant and delight any travel lover. This city is rich with history and culture, adventure, and fun. We have taken many a trip to Quebec dating all the way back to our high school French class trips to later in life where we could truly appreciate exploring the winding cobblestone streets of Old Québec to dining at chic French cafes with fine wine.

From our past experiences and help from our team, we’ve put together ideas for the best things to do in Quebec City to help you plan your trip.

Get acquainted with Quebec City on this Quebec City Tour. This 2-hour tour takes you to the ramparts, the Château Frontenac, Place Royale, and much more as you learn of the history, and culture of Quebec City. Easy cancellation within 24 hours in advance of the tour.

1. Stroll Through Old Québec – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Once the capital of New France, Old Québec has 400 years of history sitting inside its city walls and is a must-see when visiting Quebec City. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quebec is the only walled city north of Mexico.

From medieval-style walls that encircle the historic buildings to its charming European vibe, a visit to the first permanent French settlement in Canada is like a step back in time. Many of the historic attractions in Quebec City sit within these two areas and tell a story of not just the city’s history but also Canadian history.

2. le château frontenac

Some say Château Frontenac is the most photographed hotel in the world and for good reason. The giant Fairmont Hotel Chateau Frontenac was built by the Canadian National Railway in 1893 to encourage luxury travel on its trains and its design took inspiration from old French castles. Le Château Frontenac sits inside the walls of the old city and overlooks the Saint Lawrence River.

Although The Château Frontenac has modern conveniences, old-world glamour can be found at every turn with period pieces against a mahogany backdrop. If you are not staying at the Chateau Frontenac, take a tour to walk the halls of Canada’s most historic hotel. Learn of the famous people that have graced its halls and learn about its history. More details here.

3. Notre Dame de Québec Basilica – Cathedral

First built in 1647, the Notre Dame de Québec Basilica Cathedral is one of Quebec City’s most popular landmarks. It’s history is long and storied with it being destroyed and rebuilt twice in the 1700s and again in 1922. In 1923 a crypt was added for its bishops, archbishops and cardinals.

This Basilica houses one of seven holy doors in the entire world and it is the only holy door outside of Europe. The door was inaugurated at the time of its 350th anniversary. A Holy Door is kept sealed and only opened during holy years. The next opening is set for December 8, 2023.

4. Old City Walls and Fortifications

To get an up-close-and-personal look at the historic buildings, visit the Fortifications de Québec National Historic Site. The site is made up of Dufferin Terrace, Dauphine Redoubt, Montmorency Park, and the Governor’s Garden. Vieux-Québec is one of the most historic places in North America with many of its structures dating back to the 17th century. The fortifications are 4.6 kilometers (2.8 miles) in length and you can walk on the ramparts themselves.

From here you get a view of the picturesque lower town and the busy harbor below. The gates of the fortification are located at St. Louis Gate, Kent Gate, and Saint John Gate. You can book a guided tour through Parks Canada that will let you enter places that the general public can’t see.

5. Dauphin Redoubt

If you want more military history, head to the Dauphin Redoubt. The guided Parks Canada tour stops here at this heritage building for an insider’s look at military living. It is one of the oldest military buildings in North America dating back to 1712. Inside you’ll get a chance to see how the soldiers lived by touring through the building and seeing their quarters, chambers, kitchen, and mess hall. 

6. Notre Dame des Victoires

While strolling around Old Town, make sure to visit Notre-Dame-des-Victoires. This small Roman Catholic stone church was constructed in 1687 on the site of Champlain’s home. It was completed in 1723 and is one of the oldest stone churches in North America. It’s very picturesque and worth popping into.

Book this Old City Walking Tour – This two-hour grand walking tour of Old Town takes you to the top attractions including Notre Dame de Victoires Church, Place Royale, City Hall, Notre Dame Basilica, and much more.

7. Plains of Abraham

When you visit Québec City, you must also go to the Plains of Abraham Museum. It is the gateway to the historic destination offering exhibits from the Seige of Quebec from 1759-1760. After visiting the museum, visit Battlefields Park to see the Plains of Abraham. Located on the Saint Lawrence River, this area was where the British Army and Royal Navy fought against the French Army. The park itself spans 242 acres with walking trails, monuments, a Martello Tower , and an on site museum. This is a great place to stroll and learn about Quebec and Canada’s history.

8. Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec

Located in the Plains of Abraham, the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec is a complex that displays the history of Quebec art from the 17th century to the modern-day. There are four pavilions to visit housing different collections from contemporary art, Inuit Art, design, and decorative arts.

9. Musée de la Civilisation

The Musée de la Civilisation sits in the old town near the St. Lawrence River. It was established in the 1960s and hosts numerous exhibitions dedicated to the human condition. You can visit exhibitions dedicated to the Maya Civilization as well as Canada’s ancient fishing heritage. A special exhibition is also dedicated to Canada’s indigenous cultures, which provides a true glimpse of Canada’s pre-colonial times. These exhibitions take you on a tour of ancient customs and art that make up the fabric of what it means to be Canadian. 

10. Observatoire de la Capitale

Are you looking for the best view in Québec City? Observatoire de la Capitale is located on the 31st floor of Marie-Guyart building. It offers panoramic views of the entire city, The St. Lawrence Seaway, Ile d’ Orleans , and the Plains of Abraham. It may only be 31 stories high, but Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so there are height limits for buildings, making this the highest viewpoint in the city.

11. Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec

You can take the funicular system from near the gorgeous little plaza at Place Royale in the Lower Town all the way up the top of Cap Diamant. Alternatively, you can take the stairs between the upper and lower parts. Today, Place Royale is a medieval-looking square that houses numerous restaurants and cafes. The funicular takes you up and down the cliff at a 45-degree angle where you can ride to the upper level to Dufferin Terrace to visit the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

12. Saint Lawrence River

The Saint Lawrence River is part of the fabric of Quebec City and is the gateway for importing and exporting goods into North America. The Saint Lawrence connects Lake Ontario to the Atlantic Ocean so you’ll see all kinds of boat traffic on it during the warmer months where you can take a sunset evening cruise or hop on the ferry from Old Québec over to Levi. (We’ve even been scuba diving in the St. Lawrence River.)

13. Watersports at Beauport Bay

If you want to go swimming or take part in some water sports, you can head to Beauport Bay. The bay is just minutes by car from the old town. There is a beach, with a restaurant and bar and you can relax for the day by the water free from river traffic. You can paddleboard, windsurf or just laze around on the water if you want. There are play areas for kids as well as a biking trail nearby.  

14. Take a Food Tour

You cannot go to Quebec City without getting a taste of delicious French Canadian food. There is usually no better way to get to know a city’s culture than by understanding its food. If Quebec is known for one thing, it’s got to be for poutine. This quintessential Quebec treat is made of crispy french fries topped with gravy and cheese curds and you can find it all over the city. This Old Quebec City Food Tour lets you sample local cuisines at five different venues

Another famous French Canadian dish is sugar pie. Tarte Au Sucre (Sugar pie) is a pie crust filled with a combination of maple syrup, butter, and cream. Aux Anciens Canadiens in old Québec City has a yummy version, but most self-respecting Quebec City versions will have a good one too. Head to Quartier Petit Champlain if you want to taste some of Quebec’s finer fare.

15. Downtown Quebec City

Downtown Québec City is filled with restaurants, museums, markets, and shops. Although there are no absolute defining boundaries, you’ll discover that the downtown of Quebec City sits partly in Old Town within the walls and partly outside of it in the neighborhood of Saint  Jean Baptiste.

First off, you’re going to absolutely fall in love with the aesthetics as it’s a hilly area filled with cute little houses in all colors of the rainbow. And right smack dab in the middle of it all is Québec City’s main shopping street. Rue Saint-Jean.

16. Rue Saint-Jean

From exquisite chocolates to bakeries and fresh grocers, the street is filled with shoppers all day. When the sun goes down, this is the place to be for dinner and drinks. The area has high-end restaurants where you can get oysters on ice, or if you’re looking for something more relaxed, you can head to a local microbrewery. And if you’re looking for Parisian vibes, you’ll find many a cafe for that in this area as well.

17. Quartier Petit Champlain

In Quartier Petit Champlain sits Rue Petit Champlain, which is the oldest commercial street in North America. On that street are some of the region’s finest restaurants and cafes. There you will be served French specialties like rabbit, duck, and lamb cooked in the traditional French way.

A great way to get a real flavor of French Canadian food is by taking a walking tour dedicated to food. These food tours will take you to distinct food regions of Quebec City. Spending an afternoon tasting craft brews, ice wine, fancy cheeses, locally-cured meats is definitely one of the best things ways to visit Quebec city. Read more: Best Canadian Food to Try in Canada

18. Montmorency Falls

It’s 30 meters taller than Niagara Falls but gets less than half the visitors, Montmorency Falls is a bit of a local secret. It sits just a few minute’s drive outside of Quebec City near Beauport. They are part of the Montmorency Falls Park system and you can access them via steps from a number of entrances.

There is also a suspension bridge that gets you very close to the falls and lets you move from one side of the park to the other. Although people think it’s one falls, Montmorency Falls is actually made up of three separate falls.

19. Île D’Orléans

A visit to Île D’Orleans takes you to some of the most picturesque villages in Quebec. This large island makes for a great day trip from Québec City where you can enjoy the rural landscape. Artisans have set up shop here with plenty of things to see scattered throughout the island. Visit a vineyard or microbrewery and enjoy fine French cheese or a stop at a chocolate factory. Make sure to stop to take in the view of the lavender fields of the Grand Jardins.

20. Basílica Sainte Anne de Beaupré

Located 20 minutes outside the city centre is the historic pilgrimage site of Basílica Sainte Anne de Beaupré. Millions of visitors arrive annually to visit the shrine of Sainte Anne de Beaupré. Even if you aren’t visiting to see the shrine of the Grandmother of Jesus, it is worth visiting to see its stained glass windows, mosaics, and works of art.

This highly rated tour takes you to Montmorency Falls, the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, and a tour of the Island of Orleans where you’ll discover rural Quebec with an experienced guide that also includes stops at an art studio, chocolate shop

Winter Trip to Quebec City

Some of the best things to do in Quebec happen in the winter months. From tobogganing to Carnivale a visit to Quebec City is a trip you’ll never forget. So let’s look into some of the best winter activities in Quebec.

21. Tobogganing

Tobogganing in Quebec is one of the top things to do in the city in Winter. Now, this isn’t your average tobogganing adventure. This is tobogganing down Cap Diamant at up to 70 kilometers an hour. 

The wooden toboggan slide was built in 1894 on Dufferin Terrace. There are side-by-side tracks that make for some fun competition while you’re out there. And you also get beautiful views of the river.

22. Bonhomme Carnival Winter Carnival

One of the berst things you can only enjoy in the winter in Quebec City is the Bonhomme Winter Carnival.  It is the largest winter carnival in the world and brings in thousands of visitors from around the world every year. That’s because Quebec City knows how to truly celebrate the existence of ice and snow. There are a ton of things to see and do at the carnival but one of the best ways to start off is to visit Bonhomme at his ice palace.

Bonhomme is the famous seven-foot snowman that is the mascot of the winter carnival and every year an ice palace is built for him. Here you can meet Bonhomme, tour the palace, and marvel at the detail of the fully furnished ice structure.

Other things to do include watching the canoe races on the frozen St. Lawrence and checking out the massive snow sculptures that sit around the city. Every night there is a parade complete with music, lights, floats, and fun characters. The festival takes place everywhere in February.

23. Sample Maple Taffy

You might want to follow your winter fun up by making your own maple taffy. All you’ll need is snow and maple syrup to do it. 

You can visit any one of the maple sugar shacks that pop up around the city in the winter months to do this activity. Other activities include snow rafting and skiing at one of the local ski resort areas like the famous Mont-Sainte-Anne. 

24. Ice Skating

Ice Skating is a rite of passage in Canada and everyone loves to strap on a pair of skates and get on the ice. There are plenty of skating rinks in Quebec City but there are some that make skating in Quebec more enchanting than in other places in Canada.

Place D’Youville skating rink is located in Old Quebec making you feel as if you are skating in a Norman Rockwell painting with the ramparts of the city wall as its backdrop. We have skated here but sadly we didn’t take a photograph of our time in this lovely setting, so instead, I shared a photo of us on an ice trail which there are plenty of around Quebec City as well.

The Plains of Abraham Skating rink lets you skate with views of St. Lawrence on this National Historic Site. There are plenty of forested skating trails and indoor skating rinks too.

25. Hotel De Glace – Ice Hotel

Most people expect a lot of ice and snow when they visit Canada but they aren’t usually expecting ice hotels. If you visit Quebec City between January and March, you should expect to see (and maybe even stay) at the city’s only ice hotel. The hotel is made of pure ice and snow and in turn, that means that your room will be too. 

Besides the suites of ice, there is also a chapel of ice and slides made of ice you can get childish with. For a little social hour while freezing in low temperatures you can visit the Hotel de Glace ice bar and get some super unique Canadian cocktails to thaw you out. 

You don’t have to stay at the ice hotel to experience it, you can purchase a day pass to visit. There are ice skating trails, an ice slide, and even a snow tubing package you can add to your day trip.

26. Mont Saint Anne

If you love skiing or snowboarding, Mont Saint Anne is less than an hour from Quebec City. We have snowboarded at Mont Saint Anne and it is fantastic. But be warned, it is freezing. You’ll want goggles, face masks and good thermal layers to snowboard or ski here. Located in the heart of the Laurentians, Mont Saint Anne is Quebec City’s outdoor playground. Not only is it popular in the winter, but it is excellent for downhill mountain biking and hiking in the summer. You may also like 15 Top Ski Resorts in Canada For Winter Fun

27. Nordique spa Stoneham

You can visit Quebec’s spas any time of year, but to get the true Scandinavian spa experience, you need to visit in winter. Nordique spa Stoneham is the place to go for an outdoor spa experience near the city. Inside you’ll be treated to eucalyptus-infused steam rooms, and sweltering hot saunas and then you’re expected to head outside and jump into frigid cold pools. It definitely sounds crazy, but you’ll find spas like this everywhere in countries like Finland and Norway. It is believed they increase circulation and help your body get rid of toxins. Read: Nordik Spa Nature – A Guide to Ottawa’s Luxury Spa Escape

You can book your entry ticket in advance to this picturesque spa overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Easy cancellation for full refund if booked within 24 hours advance of experience. Also, easy upgrade to the luxurious premium thermal experience.

Tips for visiting Quebec in Winter

A winter visit to Quebec City requires some planning. Make sure to dress in layers and warm boots. Don’t worry about fashion here, everyone wears snow pants in the winter. And when you pack your boots, make sure to have thick soles to keep your feet from freezing. We always use hot shots to keep our toes and fingers warm as well.

A parka is a great idea to wear with a warm thermal layer underneath an insulating mid layer.

Mittens work better than gloves at keeping your fingers warm and always wear a hat. A balaclava will keep your face protected from the icy cold. Read our full post on 5 Winter Layering Tips to Dress for Extreme Cold Weather

Where to Stay in Old Quebec

• Fairmont Chateau Frontenac – An iconic Canadian hotel that is a must visit when in Old Quebec. It is the most recognizable city in Quebec and one of Canada’s grandest historic hotels.
• Hotel du Vieux – This historic boutique hotel is located in the heart of Old Quebec and is a favourite amongst visitors to Quebec City. Check for Prices and Availability
• We have also stayed at the Hotel le Concorde overlooking Quebec City, the Plains, and the river. It was a great central location.

About Quebec City

The official language of Quebec City is French, but you do not need to speak French to visit Quebec City. You will be able to get by without it however, the Quebecois do appreciate you trying, so at least try to learn some basics. Old Quebec is divided into The Upper Town and Lower Town (Haute Ville and Basse-Ville)

How to Get to Quebec City

The airport for Quebec City is the Jean Lesage International Airport located 16 km from downtown Quebec. Airport Code YQB. There are direct flights from major Canadian and US Cities cities to Quebec.

You can take a taxi or bus to downtown. The Bus is operated by RTC Quebec.

We have taken the train to Québec City and a great way to travel between Canadian cities. VIA Rail Canada has daily service between Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal , and Québec City.

And these are the best things to do in Quebec City. Have you been to North America’s most European City? What did we miss and what should we do the next time we visit?

Read more about Quebec and Canada Travel

• Top Things to do in Ottawa
• Where to Stay in Montreal – A Guide To The Best Places and Neighborhoods
• 14 Beautiful and Best Cities in Canada
• 52 Things to do in Canada – For the Ultimate Adventures
• Canada Winter Activities You Just Cannot Miss!
• 25 Best Things to do in Mont Tremblant, Quebec

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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2 thoughts on “The 27 Best Things to do in Quebec City”

One of my friend live in quebec and he tells me about the place he visits.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

15 Best Things to Do in Quebec City, Canada

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Founded in 1608, Quebec City has a rich history and heritage for you to delve into with centuries-old buildings, churches, and fortifications wherever you look. As well as attractive and impressive architecture, the city is also set in a stunning spot overlooking the Saint Lawrence River.

Fiercely proud and protective of its French-Canadian identity and language, Quebec City acts as the heart, soul of the province of the same name. Many of its museums and tourist attractions highlight this rich heritage, as does its packed schedule of festivals and cultural events.

With so many exciting things to do in Quebec City and so much history, culture, and nature to explore, the provincial capital of Quebec is certainly not to be missed when in Canada.

15. Fortifications of Quebec National Historic Site

The only city walls still standing in North America outside of Mexico, the Fortifications of Quebec are now protected as part of a National Historic Site. Erected in the seventeenth century, the sturdy ramparts, gates and towers, played a deciding role in the defense of the colony and withstood several sieges by the French and Americans.

Expanded and improved at various times over the centuries, the well-restored walls now stretch nearly three miles in length and encircle Old Quebec. Wander along its ramparts and enjoy commanding views of the city and its landmarks. You can learn about its history through the informative displays dotted about.

14. Musee National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec (MNBAQ)

Boasting one of the biggest art collections in Canada is the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec, which can be found in Battlefields Park. While its main focus is on artworks produced in the province, the museum has over 40,000 paintings, prints and sculptures by artists from other parts of the country, as well as the rest of the world.

Opened in 1933, the museum’s colossal collection now sprawls over four buildings with the pavilions being connected by a series of underground passages. Of particular interest is its excellent exhibit on Inuit Art with big names, such as Jean-Paul Lemieux and Fernand Leduc, also on display.

13. Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre

Set alongside the Saint Lawrence River is the beautiful Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre which exhibits some incredible architecture. Named for the province’s patron saint, the basilica is visited by millions of pilgrims and tourists each year and is said to cure the sick and disabled.

It was completed in 1946 after having been the site of an important shrine for centuries. The gorgeous Romanesque Revival building sports two tall towers and a lovely rose window. Its interior is just as arresting as it is decorated with colorful frescoes and stone statues. At its entrance, you can see the canes and crutches that have been left behind by the cured.

12. La Promenade des Gouverneurs

A very popular place to stroll around is La Promenade des Gouverneurs, which stretches around a mile in length. Starting near both Chateau Frontenac and Terrasse Dufferin, the elevated boardwalk meanders past fantastic viewpoints and interesting historic landmarks before ending up at Battlefields Park.

Built in 1958, the promenade impressively hugs the side of a steep cliff with steps taking you up and down its leafy tree-lined paths. On one side you have the fortifications of the old citadel with phenomenal views out over Lower Quebec and the waters of the Saint Lawrence River on the other.

11. Parliament Building

The stunning Parliament Building can be found perched atop a hill just outside of the city walls, not far from both the citadel and Battlefields Park. The seat of the province’s government, it lies amidst some lovely gardens which are dotted with superb statues of influential figures from the history of Quebec.

Built in 1886, it exhibits some striking Second Empire architecture with a tall clock tower rising above its fine facade that features people and places from the province’s past. On tours, you can learn all about the history of the building, the province and its government and even attend parliamentary proceedings.

10. Morrin Centre

Situated in the heart of Old Quebec is the Morrin Centre which offers a fascinating insight into the history of the city. Formerly a prison, it now hosts an English-language library and learning centre and was designated a National Historic Site in 1981.

Within the stately stone building, you can find a marvelous Victorian-era library with ancient tomes and rare books lining its shelves from floor to ceiling. Visitors can take tours around the facility and see elegant halls alongside gloomy jail cells. There are also antique furnishings and age-old artifacts from when the building was constructed in 1712.

9. Old Quebec Funicular

A wonderful way to get from Lower Town to Upper Town is to take a ride on the Old Quebec Funicular, which links the two together. Besides helping you avoid the steep Breakneck Stairs, it also offers some great views of the city and river down below as you go.

Founded in 1879, the railway takes visitors both up or down the cliffside at a steep 45-degree angle. While it only takes a couple of minutes to ascend the 200 feet to Upper Town, the ride is well worth it for the historic look and feel of the funicular.

8. Battlefields Park

Lying just a short stroll to the west of the center is the sprawling Battlefields Park, popular with both locals and tourists alike. The park is so named because it is the site of the 1759 Battle of the Plains of Abraham when the British beat the French and so influenced the creation of Canada.

Due to its strategic setting on the banks of the Saint Lawrence River, and its important military past, Battlefields Park is littered with historical artillery pieces, as well as four Martello towers. It also has lots of pretty green spaces, picnic areas and playing fields for people to make use of.

7. Musee de la Civilisation

Offering an interesting look into the cultures and communities of Quebec, the Musée de la Civilisation can be found not far from Place Royale, overlooking the Saint Lawrence River. Its extensive galleries house collections of artworks, artifacts and archaeological findings that shine a light on the history of the area.

Since opening in 1988, the museum has been a firm favorite with locals and tourists thanks to its interactive exhibits and innovative architecture. As well as having fascinating sections on the past, present and future of the province’s Indigenous peoples, it also regularly hosts special exhibits and cultural events.

6. Place Royale

While it may look like just another pretty plaza, Place Royale was the first site in the city to be settled by Samuel de Champlain back in 1608. Long the center of life and commerce in Quebec, it is well worth visiting for its historic importance, architecture and charming ambience.

Lining the small cobbled square are lots of beautiful old buildings which now house cafes and boutiques. At the birthplace of the French colony, you’ll also find the arresting Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church which dates to 1723 and is one of the oldest churches in all North America.

5. La Citadelle

Covering a huge part of the center of the city is a colossal citadel, which was built over decades by the French, and then British, to protect Quebec from a potential American attack. Known as ‘La Citadelle’ in French, the star-shaped fort has lovely green spaces and sturdy fortifications for you to explore as well as a great on-site museum.

Due to its strategic location, Cap Diamant has been the site of several forts over the centuries with the current citadel dating to 1850. Besides exploring the National Historic Site and learning about its history, visitors can also watch its daily changing of the guard ceremony.

4. Montmorency Falls Park

Just fifteen minutes’ drive to the northeast of town is one of the area’s most astounding natural sights, the majestic Montmorency Falls. Set in a scenic park of the same name, the waterfall towers to a huge 275 feet which is much taller than the famed Niagara Falls.

While its white wall of water certainly makes for some fabulous photos, the park itself is also well worth exploring. Besides a suspension bridge and cable car that offer up commanding views over the falls, it also has some terrific hiking trails, playgrounds and even zip-lines for visitors to enjoy.

3. Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Quebec

The oldest church in Canada, the Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec has stood in the same spot since 1647. Although it has been burnt down and destroyed numerous times throughout its long history, the basilica has always bounced back, bigger and better than before.

Located in the heart of Old Quebec, the current cathedral exhibits a somewhat austere exterior with its hulking great grey facade topped by two asymmetrical towers. Inside is another story entirely, as the illuminated interior is decorated with shimming treasures, colourful stained glass windows, and historical religious paintings.

2. Terrasse Dufferin

One of the most popular places to spend time in the city is at Terrasse Dufferin, which offers stunning views out over Old Quebec and the Saint Lawrence River. Perched atop a cliff, the long boardwalk wraps its way around Chateau Frontenac, the historic hotel that dominates the city’s skyline.

Built in 1879 under the direction of Lord Dufferin, after whom it is named, the wooden plank walkway is dotted with quaint old gazebos, lamp posts and benches with historic cannons also on show. The area also has an appealing ambience as street performers and artists often line the terrace.

1. Old Quebec

The historic heart of the city, Old Quebec is home to an incredible array of attractions with beautiful buildings and charming streets wherever you look. Presided over by Chateau Frontenac, it is made up of both Upper Town and Lower Town with the old port and Battlefields Park lying to either side.

Enclosed within its crenelated walls are not only numerous museums and monuments but Place Royale, the first site settled in the city. The historic area also boasts countless centuries-old buildings, and standout sights include its citadel and cathedral.

The highlight of many people’s visit, Old Quebec has a lovely atmosphere with innumerable shops and restaurants also being on offer.

Map of Things to Do in Quebec City

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The Travels of BBQboy and Spanky

Top Places to Visit in the Province of Quebec

Updated August 2024.

We’ve lived half of our lives in Quebec . Quebec is best known for historic Quebec City (a UNESCO site) and cosmopolitan Montreal , but what really makes the province special is its nature. Quebec has 47 national parks, all with a varied mix of natural attractions.

If you’re a hiker there are lots of mountains to climb, places with superlative views and few visitors. The province has one of the world’s most beautiful fjords (the Saguenay Fjord ), an incredible coastline of rocky coves and lighthouses (the Gaspé Peninsula ) and one of the planet’s premier whale-watching spots (in the pretty town of Tadoussac ). There’s Forillon National Park , Quebec’s oldest National Park and one of its most beautiful. There is the  Parc National de la Gaspésie where you can hike the Chic-Choc mountains (the highest in Quebec) and stay in one of the most beautiful and romantic lodges in Canada.

There’s tons to see and do in Quebec and this guide will highlight some of the top places to visit in the province.

Montreal is the province’s largest city. It is a vibrant, international city with fantastic food, exciting nightlife, and some great historical, geographical and cultural highlights.

Absolute “must-see’s” in order: 1) Mont-Royal mountain in the center of the city, 2) Old Montreal and the port, 3) the downtown core, 4) the Plateau Mont-Royal and Lafontaine Park. Montreal is a great city if you’re a biker and if you’re adventurous I recommend renting a bike and seeing the city that way. If you have kids you’ll want to visit the Biodome and Botanical Gardens.

See my detailed Guide on Montreal here.

North of Montreal: the Laurentians

About an hour north of Montreal are the Laurentian Mountains. There are many small towns in this region that offer outdoor activities year-round, including cycling, hiking and skiing. The most popular place is  Mont-Tremblant village  (90 minutes from Montreal), a resort built by the same people who built Whistler in BC. It has some of the best skiing (you can ski right up to your hotel) and best golf courses in Quebec. Many people fly to Montreal just to be able to drive up to Mont-Tremblant. Th is post covers Skiing in Mont-Tremblant .

Nearby is Mont-Tremblant National Park , a popular place for hiking and other outdoor activities.  If coming in the autumn, the “La Roche” trail (an easy 4.8 km trail) is recommended to see the fall colours.

South of Montreal: the Eastern Townships

About an hour south of Montreal are the Eastern Townships (which I actually prefer to the more popular Laurentians). This area is very bilingual, part of that due to the Anglo Heritage, part of it due to the US border being just a few kilometers away. Just like the Laurentians, this area is full of mountains and lakes. It also has some pretty towns like North Hatley , Magog and Sutton . But our favorite places in the Eastern Townships are a little further. The town of Lac-Mégantic is within easy reach of Mont-Mégantic National Park. Within this park, you have 2 peaks that are among the 3 highest peaks in the Eastern Townships: Mont St-Joseph (1065 m) has the more impressive views while Mont Megantic (1105 m) has an astronomy center (Astrolab) open to the public. The best thing is you can drive up to both peaks and hike from the top to great views in all directions. Our other favorite place is Mont Pinacle which is close to Coaticook . Mont Pinacle and why it’s our favorite hike in the Eastern Townships .

Recommended B&B in Coaticook : Les Petits Trésors . We would often stay here and go to the very nice Coffret de l’Imagination for dinner.

Flying In : Travellers coming to the Province of Quebec usually fly into Montreal’s Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (airport code YUL) or Quebec City’s Jean Lesage International Airport (airport code YQB).

Quebec City

About 3 hours drive east of Montreal lies Quebec City, the province’s capital. It is one of the oldest cities in North America and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  It is well known for its quaint Old City, its grand winter festival, and gorgeous architecture. The highlight is the Chateau Frontenac, which overlooks the St. Lawrence river. Visitors love Quebec City’s charming European feel and many like to wander the little streets of the Old Town. Nowhere else in Canada compares to Quebec’s Old City.  This inexpensive  2 hour tour of Quebec City is recommended.

Recommended Hotels :  Hotel Port-Roya l . For a very special place you can’t beat the   Chateau Frontenac .

Quebec city is also the most easterly point that connects the north and south shores of the St. Lawrence. Beyond the city (going east), the waterway broadens dramatically and the only connection between the north and south shores is by ferry.

Near Quebec city: Montmorency Falls

Just outside of Quebec City, along the northern shore of the St Lawrence, it is worth stopping at Montmorency Falls . It is the highest waterfall in the province of Quebec and is a nice place to stretch the legs and walk around.  This full day   tour from Montreal covers both Quebec City and Montmorency Falls.

Eastern Quebec, North Coast

Going east of Québec City is the pretty Charlevoix region , an area that dates back to the province’s first rural settlements. A popular tourist town is  Baie St-Paul , a pretty little town known for its art galleries. Located in a bay, it is a good base to explore some of the mountainous national parks in the interior – recommended for spectacular hikes are  Parc National des Grands Jardins  ( the highlight is the Mont du Lac-des-Cygnes Trail) and  Parc des Hautes Gorges de la Riviere Malbaie (The 5 hour Acropole des Draveurs hike is one of the most scenic in the province).

Further along is our favorite town in the whole province of Quebec :  Tadoussac . It is a small town, popular for its whale-watching and hiking, and draws an international crowd. Tadoussac is located at the juncture of the St Lawrence and Saguenay Rivers – besides the marine attractions of the St Lawrence, it also offers great hiking opportunities along the Saguenay Fjord.

More in these posts:

A detailed Guide to Tadoussac

A Road Trip to Quebec’s North Coast (this post covers Tadoussac, the Saguenay Fjord, and Parc des Hautes Gorges de la Riviere Malbaie)

Eastern Quebec, South Coast

Going East of Quebec, but on the South Coast, you’ll pass through many of the same pretty villages that you see on the North Coast.

By the time you get to Rimouski (3 hours east of Quebec City) you’ve entered a different region. Here the St. Lawrence has widened out and the water is a mix of salt and fresh water, the cool breezes carrying a whiff of the ocean. Nearby, Bic National Park is a pretty provincial park known for its rocky hills, salt marshes, and islands. It also has good bike trails (for those with bikes) as well as a camp site (which we weren’t very impressed with to be honest).

We stayed overnight at the very nice   Hotel Rimouski .

Further east, the St. Lawrence widening further, you are officially on the Gaspé Peninsula when passing the town of Matane . The Gaspé is a beautiful region of sharp cliffs, dramatic scenery, and lighthouses. It is, in my opinion, the most beautiful region in Quebec.

Driving in from the coast, the Parc National de la Gaspésie contains the Chic-Choc mountains, the highest mountains in Quebec. Some great hiking here. For a very special treat, stay at the Gite du Mont-Albert , a lodge run by the park. It’s a beautiful, luxurious lodge in the middle of nature where you can be served fine dining by candlelight. Just fabulous and if you can come here for a night (or two) then you really should.

Back on the coast, the scenery only gets more impressive as you head east of Sainte-Anne-des-Monts .

Forillon National Park , at the very tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, is one of the most spectacular national parks in Quebec. It’s also a great place to do some camping, the facilities are excellent. Make sure to do the short hike to the lookout on Cap Saint-Alban.

Percé , down the coast from Forillon National Park, is the most famous (and popular) spot on the Gaspé. It is named after the often photographed rock with the hole. The geography is very pretty, just be warned that Percé can be quite touristy.

Where to stay in Perce :   Au Pic de l’Aurore Motel-Chalets

More: A detailed account of our roadtrip through the Gaspé .

The Outaouais is in Quebec’s west, bordering Ontario (It actually starts in Hull, right across the river from Ottawa’s parliament buildings).

Hull is not a pretty city. But it holds the Canadian Museum of History . Entering the museum, you’ll be guided into the Grand Hall: A 6-story windowed hall looking out at Ottawa’s Parliament buildings on the opposite side of the river. Within the hall are Aboriginal longhouses and towering totem poles. The Grand Hall is one of the country’s most impressive indoor public spaces and the Museum’s architectural centrepiece.

Gatineau Park is a pretty, hilly park that also has historical relevance. It holds the Mackenzie King Estate (Mackenzie King is the longest serving Canadian prime minister, serving 3 terms in the early 1900’s) as well as the conference center at Meech Lake .  But its highlights are two geographical spots: Pink Lake is a small beautiful lake with emerald-coloured water. A lot of people come here to walk the trails around the lake. The Champlain Lookout has beautiful views over the countryside and the Ottawa river.

Recommended accommodation. Stay in Ottawa. Two recommended hotels:   Alt Hotel Ottawa or, if you want to stay in the most historic hotel in Ottawa, the Fairmont Chateau Laurier .

Related: A Guide on What to See and Do in Montreal (written by a local)

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Canada

Ps. If you find our blog helpful, please consider using our links to book your flights, hotels, tours, and car rentals. Have a look at our  Travel Resources page .

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Reader interactions.

September 22, 2020 at 7:11 pm

I’d love to visit Quebec City. are you sure you want to move to Spain? your part of Canada is stunning:)

September 22, 2020 at 11:47 pm

You also have 6 months of winter Tanja…

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I'm a New Yorker who went to Canada for the first time. Here are 9 things that impressed me so much, I'm already planning a trip back.

• I went to Canada for the first time in 2022 and can't wait to return someday.
• Over seven days, I traveled to Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montréal, and Québec City, mostly by train.
• I want to return to Québec and Niagara Falls, and take more Canadian trains to other provinces.

Immense waterfalls, scenic train rides , and cities that feel like Europe — I experienced them all during my first trip to Canada. 

This was back in August 2022, when I left my home in New York City to spend a week in Canada's eastern provinces of Ontario and Québec .

Overall, my trip to Canada was only a taste of what the country has to offer — a rich bite that left me hungry for more. I knew from the moment I left that I would be back and hopefully soon. 

I traveled to Ontario and Québec by bus, train, and plane, hitting cities and attractions from Niagara Falls to Montréal.

I traveled by train from NYC to Niagara Falls, New York, and walked into Niagara Falls, Canada , on foot.

After three days in the Niagara Falls area, I took a bus up to Toronto for a night. From there, I traveled to Montréal and Québec City by train and spent one night in each city before flying home to New York. 

As a seasoned Amtrak rider, I found Canada's train system, Via Rail, to be so impressive that I want to return to try out more classes and routes.

I've spent 85 hours on Amtrak trains going up and down the East Coast, reviewing its various accommodations — from business and first class to private rooms in sleeper cars . 

So when I traveled to Canada, I was excited to try out Via Rail , Canada's train line similar to Amtrak. It's one of the most accessible and popular ways to travel through the country. Via Rail has economy seating as well as business class and sleeper accommodations, just like Amtrak.

Even after only two rides, I thought my first experiences on Canada's Via Rail system were more comfortable than Amtrak equivalents, thanks to the more comfortable seats and top-notch service and amenities. 

I booked two Via Rail rides in economy and first classes.

I booked a business class ticket from Toronto to Montreal. For about $200, it came with perks that Amtrak only offers to first-class passengers, such as meal service and access to lounges at select stations, including Toronto. 

I also booked an economy ticket on Via Rail from Montreal to Québec City for about $150, and I thought it was more spacious than an Amtrak seat. 

Overall, I found train travel to be more comfortable and pleasant in Canada than I typically do in the US. This makes me want to explore Canada by train and perhaps try more classes, like the sleeper cars and prestige accommodations. 

After trying poutine for the first time, I have to go back for some different renditions.

Poutine is a Canadian comfort food originating in Québec. It's a pile of fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy.

Before visiting Canada, I had never tried poutine or even seen it on a menu. But that changed in Montreal when I dined at La Banquise, a casual joint serving classic poutine, as described above, and more creative renditions loaded with meats, veggies, bacon, or sauces like Caesar and chipotle.

I decided to go with the classic since it was my first time trying it. The fries were crispy and greasy — just like I like them. I thought the gravy was reminiscent of Thanksgiving dinner, and the curds added a unique texture without adding too much flavor.

In one bite, I could see why this dish was so popular and comforting. It was warm, filling, and nostalgic, transporting me back to Thanksgiving dinner.

Next time I'm in Montreal, I'll return to La Banquise to try some more loaded poutine options on the menu.

I thought Niagara Falls was epic and beautiful.

Niagara Falls is an iconic landmark known for its massive waterfalls on the US and Canada border. It's also America's oldest state park.

Seeing Niagara Falls up close was an unexpected highlight of the trip. Since I've seen so many pictures, I wasn't expecting to be quite so entranced by them. But once I saw them for myself, I was amazed.

I was completely in awe of how massive, beautiful, and loud the falls were. To me, it was witnessing a powerful force of nature commanding people's attention—and it succeeded.

The boardwalk lining the falls also reminded me of Times Square on New Year's Eve because of the excitement it drew.

I'd love to go back during the off-season to see what it looks like when it's not as crowded with people.

There were a lot of crowds at the falls. From the attractions surrounding it to the packed crosswalks around town, Niagara Falls was so full of people that I spent a lot of time waiting in lines and standing on my tippy toes to peer over people's heads. It would have been much more enjoyable without so many other visitors.

I would love to go back to Niagara Falls when it's less crowded and enjoy a more peaceful moment alone in front of the falls.

According to The Points Guy, Niagara Falls tends to be less busy in early spring and late fall.

I got a break from the crowds when I stayed at this treehouse Airbnb outside of Niagara Falls. It was the most peaceful part of my trip.

On my trip, I wanted to mix time in big cities with the chance to get a feel for life in smaller towns and relax. 

While looking for the most unique Airbnbs in the areas I was traveling to, I found a treehouse on a property located between a vineyard and the woods.

I stayed for one night and found it to be so peaceful and relaxing.

I loved feeling totally alone in this quiet, natural place equipped with all the comforting amenities of home.

It was the perfect place to reflect on my travels thus far, jot down notes about my observations, and review the thousands of photos I'd already taken. Sitting on the porch amid a forest of trees, this treehouse was the best remote office I've had the pleasure of working in.

I'd love to go back for a few days to completely recharge. I didn't get a chance to cook a meal in the kitchen or spend a day just reading outside — something I used to do a lot as a kid. The next time I come to this treehouse, it'll be for a vacation. 

I loved exploring Montréal on foot...

Montréal was one of the most beautiful cities I've ever seen, thanks to the stunning, contrasting modern and historical architectural styles, from Art Deco to Gothic Revival.

Walking up and down the hills of the city was tiring but rewarding. I enjoyed some impressive, all-encompassing views that made me wish I had more time to explore. 

I also walked around Old Montréal, a neighborhood reminiscent of Europe with cobblestone streets. While I took beautiful pictures, I didn't have time to go inside the many shops, museums, and restaurants along the way.

Next time I'm in Montréal, I plan to find accommodations in Old Montréal to learn more about the city's history. 

...especially Mount Royal.

Since I only had one night in the city, I got up around 6 a.m. and walked from my hotel downtown to Mount Royal, a small mountain in the middle of the city.

It was a 30-minute uphill walk followed by another half hour of climbing stairs that traversed the mountain. It was exhausting, but when I got to the top, it was totally worth it.

I could see the whole skyline, and I longed for more time to wander specific streets. 

The Old Québec neighborhood in Québec City made me feel like I was in Europe without the long-haul flight.

Québec City is a 400-year-old French-Canadian city that made me feel like I was in Europe. With its cobblestone streets, old-world architecture, and French signs and storefronts, it was like being in Europe.

I spent one night in the most gorgeous hotel that looked more like a castle.

I had roughly 24 hours in Québec City and spent all of it in Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the famed Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , a luxury hotel where I spent the night in a 180-square-foot room with a stunning view. 

I thought it was the most beautiful hotel I'd ever stayed at, and it was located in an ideal spot for sightseeing in Old Québec.

Just outside the hotel was Dufferin Terrace, a boardwalk with restaurants and benches overlooking the St. Lawrence River. On the other side of the hotel was Place d'Armes, a beautiful small park with a large fountain.

I also spent time exploring and photographing the surrounding streets, which are full of shops and restaurants, but I wished I had time to visit these places, like Quartier Petit-Champlain.

I left Québec City longing for more time to explore, shop, and dine.

Canada is so large that I left feeling like I had barely scratched the surface. There are so many more places to explore.

It's wild to think that my first trip to Canada was just within a small fraction of the country. It's the second-biggest country in the world after Russia.

Now that I've been there, I want to see more of it.

Not only do I want to spend more time in the places I've visited already, but I also want to explore other provinces like British Columbia to see what life is like in Vancouver, a big city on Canada's west coast.

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• 10 Best Things to Do in Old Québec City

What to Do in Old Québec?

Slip on some comfortable shoes and walk your own path through its 400 years of history. The Old Town  has many interesting sites to visit and is an awe‑inspiring journey through architectural treasures unlike anything outside Europe. All this monumental beauty has a place on UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites. Our best advice is to take a walking tour  when you arrive to enjoy the city's rich heritage throughout your stay.

There’s a marvel just past every street corner in the birthplace of French North America. There are luxury hotels in Québec City Old Town and many shops. Among the best restaurants in Québec City Old Town, you will find incredible places for fine dining as well as lovely restaurants inside Old Québec's walls.

How to Get to the Old City

Here’s what we recommend for no-fuss travel in and around Old Québec .

Old Town Québec City Map

Château Frontenac

See the world’s most photographed hotel in person.

Rising up from a clifftop, the iconic Château Frontenac has been the crown jewel of the Old City for over 125 years now. Getting your picture taken in front of it is obviously a must. Step inside to get a better look at the Château’s remarkable architectural style. 

Tour the Château Frontenac

Enter one of the most emblematic hotels in Canada. Take a guided tour through the hotel’s public spaces, learning about its famous guests and the historic meetings between global political leaders. Admire the blend of old world and art deco architectural details, the beautifully hand-carved beams and painted ceilings. Take time to enjoy the quiet nooks on the second floor and stare up at the shimmering chandeliers towards Le Champlain and 1608 Wine Bar.

Eat in one of the Château’s restaurants  

You can partake of a little nourishment at its restaurants, Le Champlain and Le Sam . There’s also Bar 1608 whose mixologists and fantastic view of the St. Lawrence River are sure to make an impression. Sunday Brunch at Le Champlain offers a cornucopia of culinary delights including Québec cheeses, buttery croissants, fruits and delicious meats. Sip mimosas or champagne and soak up the old world elegance of the dining room.

Stay in one of the Château’s rooms 

Yes, you can sleep in the Château! Soak up the history and beauty of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac  hotel during your stay. Rooms have an art deco feel to them, with cozy beds that beg to be laid in all day. 

Terrasse Dufferin

Take a turn on a hotspot with an amazing view.

Summer on the Dufferin terrace is a whirlwind of singers and entertainers busking and strutting their stuff. It’s also a prime location to see the fireworks during Les Grands Feux Loto‑Québec . In winter, you’ll find thrill-seekers of all ages hurtling down a century-old wooden toboggan run. At the far end, you can climb a few more steps to Promenade des Gouverneurs or to the Pierre-Dugua-De Mons Terrace for a breathtaking panorama of the Château Frontenac , the city, the river, Île d’Orléans , and the surrounding mountains.

I loved all the popular places to visit in Québec City but my favourite moment and experience was visiting the Pierre-Dugua-De Mons Terrace at sunset. It felt like we were able to take in the whole city from this special spot. - Marisa Mercanti-Gagnon, The Daydream Diaries, Ontario

Have an ice cream cone while enjoying the view

On a hot summer day, there is nothing quite like stopping at Au 1884 on Dufferin Terrace for an ice cream cone. We love the italian gelato from Tutto Gelato and the chocolate-dipped ice cream, made with chocolate by Érico, that will take your summer treat to the next level as you saunter down Dufferin Terrace. A delightful break as you explore the only fortified city north of Mexico.

Visit the remains of Forts-et-Châteaux-Saint-Louis

In summer, under the Dufferin Terrace, you can visit an authentic archaeological crypt that testifies important moments in the history of Québec. The Forts-et-Châteaux-Saint-Louis were the residence of the governors from 1620 to 1834. The visit will reveal vestiges, artefacts as well as anecdotes about the way of life of the time.

Zoom down the toboggan slides

In winter, bundle up and participate in one of the oldest attractions in Québec City! Rent a long wooden toboggan and walk up to the top of the slide. Then sit down and get ready for a thrill as you speed your way to the bottom, all while admiring the wintery views of Old Québec City and the St. Lawrence River!

Petit-Champlain

Fall in love with canada’s prettiest pedestrian street.

If the European charm of this ravishing, exclusively pedestrian street doesn’t enchant you, the shopkeepers will. Petit-Champlain is simply gorgeous, and winter adds a fairyland sparkle with the lights on the snow. Wander into one-of-a-kind boutiques and meet some of Québec City’s artists and artisans. Slow down and check out the architectural details. You’ll see why everyone loves Petit-Champlain. 

Shop at local artisans

One of the oldest shopping streets in North America, the boutiques of Petit-Champlain offer beautiful products created by local artisans. Shop for clothing made by local designers, Indigenous sculptures and handicrafts, jewellery, Québec terroir and more. One of the best streets for finding Québec-made souvenirs.

Be amazed by a real Christmas village

Step into a living Christmas card. Winter in Petit-Champlain is breathtaking, especially after a snowfall. Admire the festive decorations from December through February, take an obscene amount of photos, and warm up in a cozy restaurant or pub. You have to see it in person to truly absorb the winter elegance.

Get Our 50 Top Picks to Eat local

Our guide to great places to eat and drink local is a must-have to experience the flavours of Québec’s products and specialties.

Place Royale

Explore the place where québec city was founded.

Place Royale is the spot where, in 1608, Samuel de Champlain built what became the first permanent French settlement in North America. Its European charm is set off by the exquisite Notre-Dame-des Victoires Church, one of the continent’s oldest stone church.

Take pictures of the historic buildings

Place Royale is dripping with European charm with its cobblestone streets and buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Snap endless photos of the square and pose for photos on rue Saint-Pierre and des Pains Bénits. In winter, when the Christmas tree is erected and everything is covered in snow, this little neighbourhood is pure magic.  

Visit Notre-Dame des Victoires church

One of the oldest stone churches in North America, Notre-Dame des Victoires stands on the spot where Champlain’s trading post once stood. This small church is truly the heart of Place-Royale. In summer, the doors are open for visitors to explore and admire the beautiful architecture.

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral

Take a quiet moment by the only holy door outside europe.

Take a moment to sit back and drink in the majesty that surrounds you in the mother church of the continent’s first Catholic parish north of Mexico, Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral . It’s also the site of the first and only Holy Door outside Europe. The neoclassical façade, asymmetrical towers, stained glass, and three Casavant organs are some of the marvels of this genuine architectural masterpiece.

Live the experience of the Holy Door

As part of the 350 th anniversary of the diocese of Québec, the Holy Door will be open for two years starting December 8, 2023.  Walking through the Holy Door is a unique spiritual experience not to be missed.

Go on a self-guided tour

 You don’t need to be catholic to marvel at the religious opulence and history of Notre-Dame de Québec. The self-guided tour begins in Saint-Joseph chapel, and guides you through the artifacts, architecture and history of the tomb of Saint-François de Laval, the Altar of the Holy Family, the Central and Saint-Anne Naves, the Sacré-Coeur Chapel and Holy Door . A truly divine experience in the heart of Old Québec City.    

Québec City's Walls

Travel back in time along north america’s only walled city north of mexico.

You might be asking yourself: “Why is Québec City Walled?” In fact, the escarpment of Cap Diamant provided the colony of New France with a natural defence system on the west side. A decision was made to build fortification walls on the other sides to provide a better protection. From these walls, the colonists could spot enemies approaching from land, as well as from the St. Lawrence River, giving them ample time to prepare a defence. A system which worked well for hundreds of years. Today, the ramparts remain intact as a testament to the character, history and battles that have taken place since the 17th century.

Walking along the ramparts

Sure you can walk through the Saint-Louis and Saint-Jean Gates. But did you know you can also walk on top—on the ramparts between them? There are stairs in the Artillery Park near the Saint-Jean Gate that will take you up over Place D’Youville. The stones have been meticulously restored by Parks Canada, making these the best‑preserved fortifications in North America.

Parliament Building

Tour québec’s first national historic site.

The Parliament Building is a fantastic work of Second Empire architecture you don’t want to miss. In summer you can wander through its magnificent gardens and admire it all from up close. There are also free guided tours where you can learn about Québec’s history and parliamentary institutions.

Discover Québec’s parliamentary history on a guided tour

Take a free guided tour through the halls and public spaces of the Parliament Building.  Admire the intricate details of the National Assembly, all while learning about the history, and function of the Québec Parliament.

Restaurant Le Parlementaire

Dine in the historic and remarkable dining room . The menu features locally sourced ingredients, some of which are grown in the Parliament's garden, and highlights the best of Québec cuisine. A unique dining experience in Québec City.

Citadelle de Québec

Dive into the city’s military history at britain’s biggest fortress in north america.

On the city’s natural summit at Cape Diamond is another authentic historic wonder. The Citadelle has been home base for the Royal 22 e  Régiment since 1920. Come experience such military traditions the cannon that’s fired each day at noon. Tour the fortress for a behind-the-scenes look at Québec City’s defences.

Tour the Citadelle and the Musée Royal 22 e Régiment

Military enthusiasts and history lovers will love this guided tour of La Citadelle, the only way to tour the military base! When your tour is complete, wander through the museum to admire the artifacts and documents which pay homage to the rich history of the Royal 22 e Régiment.

Attend musical performances

In summer, the musicians of the Royal 22 e Régiment, dressed in their red uniform and traditional bear fur cap, offer a musical performance . A spectacular experience set against the backdrop of Old Québec City, to the sound of trumpets, French horns, symbols, and drums.

Plains of Abraham

Get on the site of the battle of 1759.

In 1759, the Plains of Abraham rang out with the clash of arms. Today the former battlefield rings out with the music of the Québec City Summer Festival as tens of thousands flock to the plains to hear the world’s hottest artists. In winter, there are athletes to cheer on in competitive events. This vast park is also home to several monuments, two Martello towers and the Plains of Abraham Museum.

Learn about the Battle of Québec

The  Battles | 1759-1760 exhibit  in the Plains of Abraham Museum is one of the best ways to learn about the circumstances and history of the famous battle of the Plains of Abraham . Learn about Generals Montcalm and Wolfe, how the battle took shape and so much more. A fascinating stop on your historic journey through Québec City.

Treat yourself to a picnic on the Plains

 A gorgeous and large green space close to the fortifications of Québec. The Plains of Abraham are an ideal spot for laying out on a blanket and enjoying a picnic comprised of local goods. A delightful experience on a sunny day.

Go ice skating and cross-country skiing within Old Québec

Spend an afternoon ice skating and cross-country skiing on the Plains of Abraham. Take in the winter beauty and views of the St. Lawrence River and the neighbourhood of Montcalm. Unique winter experiences in the heart of the city! 

Experience the charm of the irresistible streets just steps from the St. Lawrence River

The many antique shops on Rue Saint-Paul are living proof of Québec City’s closeness to history. You’ll also find art galleries, cafés, and restaurants that practically force you into the role of  flâneur , the idle sophisticate of Europe’s  Belle Époque . Continue your meanderings in a magical setting much prized by cruise ship visitors. The river whispers to you. “Relax,” it says—why fight it?

In summer, several streets in the Old Port turn into terraces and allow visitors to live the unique experience of a huge open-air restaurant and the feeling of being wisked in Europe.

In February and March, it is possible to go ice fishing  on the frozen basin while admiring the views of the Old City. 

Browse the antique shops and art galeries

Old Port is the best place to shop for antiques and art in Québec City. Start on rue Saint-Paul and continue to rue Saint-Pierre, popping into antique shops for artifacts that are functional, religious and decorative. Wander through the small art galleries and discover the astounding talent of Québec artists. There is a good chance you’ll find a piece to display at home, a constant reminder of your unforgettable trip to Québec City.  

What is the difference between Old Québec and Québec City?

Old Québec City is a neighbourhood of Québec City that refers to the historic district. Old Québec (also called Québec City Old Town) became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Old Québec is both in Lower Town and Upper Town.

What is the difference between Upper and Lower Town?

Lower Town is along the St. Lawrence river while Upper Town is circled by the fortifications, with an elevation of about 50 metres. Here are the main attractions in these parts of the city:

Lower Town:

• Petit-Champlain : Just beneath the ramparts, where Rue du Petit-Champlain and Place Royale are located
• Old Port : Between the Petit-Champlain and the St. Lawrence River

Upper Town:

• Inside the Walls : Surrounded by the fortifications and where the Château Frontenac is located 
• Parliament Hill & Plains of Abraham : Just outside the walls and where the Parliament is located, next to Grande Allée and the Plains of Abraham

How easy is it to walk around Old Québec?

Old Québec is a very walkable city. But above all, walking is the best way to fully enjoy its impressive heritage. Lower Town and Upper Town are connected by steep streets and  staircases . The funicular can also help people who have more difficulty to get around: you can walk down and use the funicular to reach the Upper Town or use it in both directions.

Old Québec VS downtown​

Québec City incorporates Old Québec as well as central neighbourhoods and other neighbourhoods near downtown. The central neighbourhoods are concentrated in a relatively small area. Each one has its own vibe with unique food, shops and places to mingle with the locals and have a good time. 

More Activities in Old Québec

Cicérone Tours

Le Monastère des Augustines

Les Promenades Fantômes

Morrin Centre

Fortifications of Québec National Historic Site

L'îlot des Palais

Tours Voir Québec

Tours Accolade

Ghost Tours of Québec

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Things to do

One of the oldest cities in North America, you can’t help but feel like you’ve travelled through time as you walk the cobblestone streets of Quebec City, visiting landmarks that have stood the test of time.

Old Quebec External Link Title (or Vieux-Québec, as the locals know it) isn't so much an attraction as a collection of impressive attractions, all populating one historic area. This UNESCO world heritage treasure makes for the perfect day trip. In just a few hours you can see architecture dating back centuries, as well as stunning churches and chapels that drive home the religious history of the province. Of course, if you're not such a history buff, the area is full of entertainment, from art and music to shopping and fine dining. Truly, a must-visit area of Quebec City.

Fortifications of Quebec

Many people don't realize that Quebec is a walled city -- North America's only remaining fortified city in fact. At around 2.8 miles in length, the fortifications of Quebec External Link Title are part of a defense system built between 1608 (when Samuel de Champlain founded the city) and 1871, by French then British and eventually 'Canadian' forces. Take a tour along the walls to learn their history and enjoy views of the historic city within, and the St. Lawrence River beyond. Follow the walls right to the Citadel, a star-shaped fortress built following the War of 1812. Observe the Changing of the Guard ceremony, watch muskets being fired and complete the experience with a visit to the new regimental museum. They might even let you try on some night-vision goggles.

Montmorency Falls Park

Many people are surprised to discover that a waterfall one and a half times higher than Niagara Falls sits just minutes from Quebec City. At 272 feet, the Montmorency Falls are a sight to behold, both from within the city and up close and personal in the Montmorency Falls Park External Link Title (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency in French). Hang out near the base and feel the mist on your face, or ride the gondola up to the top for a spectacular view. More adventurous visitors might choose to hike one of the three Via Ferrata trails, stopping at viewpoints along the way for some Instagram-worthy shots, or even zip line across the falls. Of course, once you reach the top you can sit back and enjoy a great meal or a few celebratory drinks at the elegant Manoir Montmorency.

The Petit Champlain District and Place Royale

Visitors to Quebec City always talk about its European charm, and nowhere is this more true than in the Petit Champlain district External Link Title (Quartier du Petit Champlain) -- one of the oldest neighborhoods in North America. Walk the narrow, cobblestone streets and pop into the many boutiques and shops for a fashionable souvenir. Let your nose guide you to one of the many restaurants and bistros, and be sure to make time to indulge your sweet tooth with local treats at the La Petite Cabane à Sucre. Just a short walk away is Place Royale, a small square with a big history. It was here that Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608. Today Place Royale takes visitors back in time with the help of the oldest stone church in North America, and a massive mural that traces 400 years of Quebec history.

Plains of Abraham

The Plains of Abraham External Link Title are Quebec City's Central Park: an incredible urban green space where you can enjoy nature steps from the city. It was here, on the Plains, that generals Wolfe and Montcalm fought for the future of the French and British Empires in North America. Now, on any given day you'll see people cycling, picnicking, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, depending on the season. The Plains of Abraham also act as the setting for Le Festival d'été du Québec, a huge music festival every summer that has attracted the likes of The Rolling Stones, The Foo Fighters and Lady Gaga, to name a few.

The Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine

One million visitors every year make a point of stopping at the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine External Link Title , and for good reason: the 350-year-old basilica is incredibly beautiful. Though the shrine is North America's oldest pilgrimage site, and still hosts daily mass, you don't have to be religious to appreciate the hundreds of stained glass windows, the many beautiful works of art, or the golden statue of Saint Anne at the center of it all.

Musée de la Civilisation & Musée National des Beaux-Arts

Two major museums draw in crowds year round in Quebec City. First, the Musée de la Civilisation External Link Title tackles the evolution of our society, and it does so even through the building itself, which is a mixture of old structures and modern design. Inside you'll find exhibits on Quebec's Aboriginals, the history of the province and a variety of touring exhibits covering the evolution of global civilization. The Musée National des Beaux-Arts External Link Title is the city's fine arts museum, with a collection of 38,000 works from the last four centuries. The museum takes particular care to highlight Quebec's artists and their work, including art that dates back to the French colonies that inhabited the area. Now the only question is which museum will you visit first?

Jacques-Cartier National Park

What outdoor activities do you find the most fun? Are you a skiing, biking or hiking type of person? Or maybe you're more of a fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding type of person? Perhaps you prefer a little wildlife viewing or geocaching? The good thing about Jacques-Cartier National Park External Link Title is that you don't have to choose. Nicknamed 'Quebec City's Great Outdoors," the park's 258 sq. miles are home to all of those activities and more. Pack your tent, take off on 62 miles of hiking trails, traverse rivers, climb mountain plateaus, pass through valleys and just enjoy everything Mother Nature brings to the table.

Parliament Hill

For over a century, Quebec's Parliament Building External Link Title has stood prominently on top of a hill in the city. Though the building is home to political debate and decision-making, it has also become a popular cultural destination. Inspired by the Louvre Palace in Paris, the building is a beautiful piece of architecture, especially at night when it is lit up. The grounds of the building are adorned with 26 bronze statues to memorialize key figures in the history of the province, and the beautiful Fontaine de Tourney sits in front of the Parliament like an extravagant centerpiece. The surrounding park and gardens offer a 'green' getaway in the middle of the city, and its central location puts you within quick walking distance to stores, restaurants and an art museum.

The Island of Orleans

The Island of Orleans External Link Title is just a short drive across a bridge from Quebec City, but it offers a completely different perspective on the region. Orleans is an island of farmers and food producers, and as you travel the countryside you'll come across six distinct villages: Sainte-Pétronille is on the tip of the island, with great views of Montmorency Falls and even better local wine. Saint-Laurent is filled with farm stands and strawberry fields. Saint-Jean contains the preserved homes of pilots who navigated ships in the St. Lawrence River in the mid-19th century. Saint-François has a popular observation tower with great views of the surrounding islands and St. Lawrence Estuary. Sainte-Famille is full of apple orchards. And finally, Saint-Pierre is the most populated village closest to the bridge to the city. Don't worry; you don't have to remember all of this. As you drive onto the Island of Orleans, you can pick up an audioguide for your drive.

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The skyline in Old Québec.

It’s rare for a city to attract visitors in the middle of a frigid winter but Québec City succeeds in that every year. The reason and reward for those hardy travelers is a Winter Carnival (next year: February 7-16) featuring sledding runs down the hills of this clifftop, Upper and Lower Town city, canoe races through the icy St. Lawrence River, an intricate ice palace to wander through, skating obstacle courses and various other wacky and/or entertaining activities. But this city, Canada’s oldest, the capital of the province of Québec and known for its cobblestone street/old town charm, French history and creative culinary scene has reasons to draw visitors, which it does, at all times of year. (Summer also gets its own festival, the very popular 11 day music festival Festival d'été de Québec in July.)

The Petit Champlain District of Old Quebec designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s a common sight to see visitors year round on walking tours through 416 year old, UNESCO designated World Heritage Site Old Québec, radiating out from Place Royale, the former fur trading post where the city was founded in the 17 th century. It’s easy enough to wander around on one’s own but private tours with Cicérone Tours are particularly helpful, involving a great deal of engaging detail about the city’s founding and often a guide in period costume who will be stopped frequently to be photographed by other sightseers.

A farm on the Île d’Orléans.

Also available all year (but especially appealing in the summer, prime season for fruit and vegetables, and the fall with the background of changing colors) Conciergerie du Terroir co-owner Dany Labrecque, a discriminating former hotel concierge, designs culinary tours around visitors’ interests on Île d’Orléans, the bucolic island 20 minutes outside of the city. Stops can include vineyards such as Cassis Monna & Fils run by sisters who grow and create products around this blackcurrant liqueur, produce farms, artisan cheese producers and bakeries and La Maison de Thé, an idiosyncratic, whimsically decorated barn-a mix of antiques and farm implements- with different salons for classic afternoon tea. On the way, a stop to admire Montmorency Falls cascading down 272 feet, is usually included.

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The Strøm River pool at Strøm Spa Nordique in Old Québec.

Another, more direct water experience is a day spent in the various thermal pools and Icy Nordic baths and waterfalls at Strøm Spa Nordique , an expansive modern facility that has five locations around the city including the newest, in Old Québec overlooking the river. Couples and exhausted tourists spend all day here, alternately dipping between pools, lounging, zoning out in the flotation bath, letting the currents pull them around the oval pool Strøm River or getting a massage. Since they need sustenance for all of that activity, The Nord Restaurant on site serves colorful, healthy, fresh from the farm ingredient-laden dishes; the restaurant is also available to those not spending time in the spa.

White Fish Ceviche with Nordic shrimp, lemongrass mayonnaise, cranberry relish and elderberry ... [+] liqueur vierge at Chez Rioux & Pettigrew.

Elsewhere in town, the restaurant scene is buzzing with young chefs creating improvisational menus from the wealth of local ingredients. At Chez Rioux & Pettigrew in the Lower Town’s Old Port, the tone is friendly and the décor is casual: wooden tables, flowers, artifacts such as tea tins and wooden boxes, vestiges of this room’s previous existence as a general store. Culinary Director Dominic Jacques crafts lively combinations that meld seamlessly together even if they read as overly complicated such as White Fish Ceviche with Nordic shrimp, lemongrass mayonnaise, cranberry relish and elderberry liqueur vierge and Cavatelli with mushrooms, two year aged Cheddar sauce, pickled red and fresh grapes, toasted walnuts, maple syrup and mushroom vinaigrette. The restaurant’s cocktails also match the creativity of the cuisine.

Grilled brocolettes accompanied by asparagus, basil broth, aigrelette sauce and Avonlea cheese at ... [+] Légende.

Down the street, Légende dedicates its menu to local, sometimes historical traditions, and takes local produce so seriously that the restaurant won’t use anything not grown or created within the province. Chef/co-owner Elliot Beaudoin wrests exciting flavors out of seemingly simple ingredients such as the Grilled brocolettes accompanied by asparagus, basil broth, aigrelette sauce and Avonlea cheese that stole the thunder in a recent six course creative menu from other dishes that would usually get the attention such as scallop and shrimp ceviche or spiced bavette steak.

The main buildings of Auberge Saint-Antoine.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in the Upper Town (reachable from the Lower Town by funicular or stairs) is the most famous hotel in the city and its signature landmark, a turreted behemoth looming over both tiers of the city. There’s also much more activity surrounding it in the Upper Town—more restaurants, more shops patronized by locals, many of the festival sites. But it’s more atmospheric to stay in the Lower Town, especially in residence at Auberge Saint-Antoine , a Relais & Chateaux member composed of several centuries old buildings a short walk from Place Royale. It’s also something of a museum: during the excavation to build a parking garage below the hotel, artifacts from as far back as 1600 were unearthed and are now displayed in cases embedded in the walls.

A room with original brick and stone walls at Auberge Saint-Antoine

The 95 rooms also display this history-each has an artifact and a description of what it represents. They’re all different with some featuring original wood floors, wood beams, brick walls and terraces overlooking the river. The largest, the 807 square foot Panoramic & Spa Suite is situated on the top floor with a 600 square foot river view terrace. And the hotel is expanding: the adjacent 18 th century Union Bank Heritage building has recently been acquired with plans to open 25 more rooms and suites, some with their own hammams. A 120 seat ballroom, Presidential Suite, spa with a thermal circuit and swimming pool and rooftop bar and restaurant are also part of the plan due to be completed in late 2026. For now, the hotel’s restaurant Chez Muffy is the gastronomic outlet, featuring menus with ingredients grown on its farm located on the Île d’Orléans. The room with its rough stone walls and wood beams, formerly a warehouse in the 1800s, instantly transports diners back into history just like the city itself.

Chez Muffy at Auberge Saint-Antoine.

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10 Of The Most Beautiful Towns To Retire To In Quebec

• Quebec offers retirees a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
• Charming small towns in Quebec provide an ideal setting for retirement, with clean air, low crime rates, and tight-knit communities.
• Quebec's scenic towns allow retirees to enjoy the province's famous landscapes right outside their front door, with historic architecture, farmer's markets, galleries, and boutiques adding to the old-world charm.

With its distinct French-Canadian culture, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes, it's no wonder that Quebec is considered one of the top retirement destinations in Canada. For instance, Quebec's Magdalen Islands are a getaway fit for any foodie and the best place for retirees to settle while they enjoy natural beauty. Indeed, from quaint rural villages to lively urban centers, Quebec offers retirees a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation. For those seniors who love park beauty and enthusiasm, Forillon National Park offers the best for Quebec visitors .

For those seeking a quieter pace of life surrounded by natural beauty, Quebec's charming small towns provide an ideal setting for retirement. With Quebec's complete travel guide , seniors can find the best things to do in many towns here. These towns boast clean air, low crime rates, and tight-knit communities where new residents are welcomed with open arms. Many are located along rivers or lakes, providing easy access to fishing, boating, and other water activities during the warm summer months.

From the rolling hills of the Eastern Townships to the dramatic cliffs along the St. Lawrence River, Quebec's scenic towns allow retirees to enjoy the province's famous landscapes right outside their front door. Historic architecture, farmer's markets, galleries, boutiques, and excellent restaurants add to these towns' old-world charm. With a relatively low cost of living compared to Canada's major cities, Quebec's beautiful small towns offer retirees the best of small-town living without breaking the bank. Here are 10 of the most beautiful towns to retire in Quebec.

Saint-Sauveur

Nestled in the Laurentian Mountains, Saint-Sauveur charms with its alpine village ambiance. Its hillside location provides stunning valley views, making it a four-season destination. The community revolves around active outdoor recreation like skiing, hiking, and cycling, which retirees can enjoy year-round. While benefiting from proximity to Montreal, Saint-Sauveur retains a small-town feel with plenty of shops and eateries downtown. Retirees have access to great healthcare through the community health center and CLSC clinic.

• Population: 10,618 people
• Top Attractions : Mont Habitant , PARC Aquatique Sommer Saint-Sauveur
• Things to Do : Downhill skiing, hiking, cycling, golf, spas
• Average Rental Costs : From $40/night
• Average Cost of Living : Below the Quebec provincial average

Ste-Petronille

Located on the scenic Île d’Orléans just outside Quebec City, Ste-Petronille charms with its rural island beauty. Retirees can admire breathtaking river vistas and Orleans Island Bridge views. Beyond the picturesque seascapes, the area offers award-winning wineries, artists' galleries, and local cuisine. Retirees can stay active through walking, cycling, and kayaking. Healthcare needs are served by the CLSC Orléans community clinic and other Quebec City medical facilities a short drive away. With lower costs of living, Ste-Petronille makes island living attainable.

• Population: 1,043 people
• Top Attractions : Vignoble Ste-Petronille , Promenade Horatio Walker
• Things to Do: Wine tasting, gallery tours, whale watching, hiking
• Average Rental Costs : From $155/night
• Average Cost of Living : 10% below the Quebec provincial average

Mont-Tremblant

Nestled in the Laurentians, Mont-Tremblant is one of Canada’s premier mountain destinations . Retirees can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying four-season activities like skiing, hiking, and boating on Lac Tremblant. Vibrant tourism amenities like shops, restaurants, and hotels give Mont Tremblant an energetic vibe. The pedestrianized downtown prioritizes walkability, while free public transit makes getting around easy. For healthcare, the community is served by the CLSC La Minerve clinic and other facilities. With abundant amenities amid stunning scenery, Mont Tremblant is ideal for active retirees.

• Population : 11,112 people
• Top Attractions : Tremblant , Domaine Saint-Bernard
• Things to Do : Downhill & cross-country skiing, hiking, cycling, golf
• Average Rental Costs : From $83/night
• Average Cost of Living : 10% above the Quebec provincial average

RELATED: Montreal To Mont Tremblant: Why It's the Perfect Day Trip

Trois Rivieres

Situated at the junction of the St. Lawrence and Saint-Maurice rivers, Trois Rivières offers both natural beauty and city amenities. Its historic Old City with architecture from the 17th-18th centuries provides a scenic backdrop. The downtown pedestrian promenade along the riverfront allows for relaxed strolls and river watching. Festivals and cultural events year-round give retirees ample social and entertainment options. CLSC community health clinics provide convenient healthcare access, while costs of living are lower than Quebec averages.

• Population : 138,839 people
• Top Attractions : Our Lady of the Cape Shrine , La Vieille Prison de Trois-Rivières
• Things to Do : Historic sites, cultural festivals, cycling trails
• Average Rental Costs : From $82/night
• Average Cost of Living : 5% below the Quebec provincial average

North Hatley

Charming North Hatley village offers a serene retreat in Quebec's Eastern Townships region. Sitting on the shores of Lake Massawippi provides plenty of opportunities for boating, swimming, and lakeside relaxation. Meandering village roads, colorful cottages, and views of the Massawippi hills create classical New England-style scenery. North Hatley provides a clinic, pharmacy, and easy access to other healthcare in nearby Sherbrooke. With a tranquil setting and low costs, North Hatley makes for an affordable retirement choice.

• Population : 682 people
• Top Attractions : Mine Capelton , Equitation Jacques Robidas
• Things to Do: Lakeside recreation, golf, boutique shopping, Massawippi Valley Rail Trail
• Average Rental Costs : From $99/night
• Average Cost of Living: 10% below the Quebec provincial average

Val-Jalbert

Step back in time in Val-Jalbert, Canada's best-preserved ghost town in Quebec , and an early 20th-century pulp mill town frozen in time. Historic mills, worker housing, and the grand Ouiatchouan Falls provide a scenic glimpse into Quebec's past. Nature reigns supreme, with numerous hiking trails and breathtaking views of the dramatic falls and winding Ouiatchouan River. With only 10 full-time residents, it's the quintessential quiet village to retire to. Affordable rental properties can be found, and medical services are available in nearby Chambord.

• Top Attractions : Village historique de Val-Jalbert , Bureau D'information Touristique De Chambord
• Things to Do: Hiking to scenic viewpoints, exploring historic buildings
• Average Rental Costs : From $98/night
• Average Cost of Living : 25% below the Quebec provincial average

RELATED: Val-Jalbert: Canada's Best-Preserved Ghost Town In Quebec

Baie-Saint-Paul

Snuggled along the Saint Lawrence River, Baie-Saint-Paul boasts captivating scenery near the mouth of the Gouffre River. Dramatic capes and winding coastal roads beg to be explored on foot. The thriving arts community provides multiple galleries and boutiques to peruse. Nearby Mont Grand-Fonds and Jacques-Cartier Park offer excellent hiking and skiing trails. Retirees can access healthcare through the local CLSC community clinic. With picturesque beauty and low living costs, Baie-Saint-Paul offers an affordable coastal retirement.

• Population : 7,288 people
• Top Attractions : Route du Fleuve , Économusé du Fromage
• Things to Do : Hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
• Average Rental Costs : $82/night
• Average Cost of Living : 15% below the Quebec provincial average

Situated along the breathtaking Saguenay Fjord, Tadoussac delivers some of Quebec's most jaw-dropping scenery. The small community focuses on eco-tourism, such as whale watching and exploring the fjord's rugged shoreline. Retirees can admire views of the fjord and the Laurentian mountains from hiking trails and sandy beaches. The local CLSC community health clinic provides convenient medical services for residents. With its combination of stunning vistas and affordable costs, Tadoussac makes a picturesque retirement choice.

• Population : 784 people
• Top Attractions : Sentier de la Pointe-de-l'Islet Trail , Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre
• Things to Do : Whale watching cruises, hiking, beaches, sea kayaking
• Average Rental Costs : From $92/night

RELATED: Tadoussac: This Tiny French Canadian Village Is The Oldest In Canada (& Here's What To Do There)

Overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, Kamouraska charms with its peaceful coastal setting and friendly Francophone culture. Colorful Victorian homes line streets that are perfect for relaxed walks. Kamouraska Regional Park offers marvelous hiking and cycling trails with river vistas. Retirees can explore local vineyards or enjoy winter sports like snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Medical needs are served by the local CLSC clinic. With its magnificent scenery and affordable costs, Kamouraska is a tranquil retirement retreat.

• Population : 22,630 people
• Top Attractions : Quais de Kamouraska , Musee Regional de Kamouraska
• Things to Do: Hiking, cycling, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling
• Average Rental Costs : $92/night

Île d'Orléans

Just across the St. Lawrence from Quebec City lies the scenic rural Île d’Orléans. With its rolling farmland, orchards, and vineyards, the island provides a bucolic countryside setting. Cycling the perimeter offers stunning views of river landscapes, historic homes, and the impressive Orleans Island Bridge. Retirees can enjoy island delicacies like berries, wines, cider, and cheese. CLSC community health clinics on the island provide medical services, while costs of living are lower than average. For affordable retirement living immersed in natural beauty, Île d’Orléans is unbeatable.

• Population : 7,404 people
• Top Attractions : Erabliere Boily , Vignoble Ste-Petronille
• Things to Do: Cycling, hiking, snowshoeing, sampling local foods/wines
• Average Rental Costs: $75/night

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Hidden Gems: The Best Italian Restaurants In Québec City

Published: August 29, 2024

by Aleen Reece

Craving authentic Italian cuisine in Québec City? You’re in luck! This charming city offers a variety of Italian restaurants that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. From cozy trattorias to elegant dining spots, Québec City has something for every pasta lover. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Margherita pizza, rich lasagna, or creamy risotto, these hidden gems won’t disappoint. Get ready to savor the flavors of Italy without leaving the city. Let’s dive into the best places to enjoy a delicious Italian meal in Québec City. Buon appetito!

Québec City's Italian Culinary Scene

Québec City, known for its rich history and charming streets, also boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Among the many dining options, Italian cuisine stands out with its comforting flavors and hearty dishes. Here are some of the best Italian restaurants in Québec City that you shouldn't miss.

Authentic Italian Flavors

For those craving genuine Italian dishes, these restaurants offer a taste of Italy right in the heart of Québec City.

Restaurant Il Matto

• Located in the Old Port, Il Matto serves classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Their pasta is made fresh daily, and the wine list features selections from Italy's finest vineyards.

Portofino Bistro Italiano

• Situated in a historic building, Portofino offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Italian favorites. Their wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas are a must-try.
• Known for its elegant setting and impeccable service, La Scala offers a fine dining experience. Their menu includes a variety of seafood and meat dishes, all prepared with authentic Italian techniques.

Family-Friendly Italian Spots

Perfect for a family night out, these restaurants provide a welcoming atmosphere and dishes that everyone will love.

Piazzetta Saint-Joseph

• A family-friendly spot with a relaxed vibe, Piazzetta Saint-Joseph offers a wide range of pizzas, pastas, and salads. Their kid's menu ensures even the youngest diners are satisfied.
• With several locations in Québec City, Pacini is a popular choice for families. Their menu features a variety of Italian classics, and their bread bar is a hit with kids and adults alike.

Romantic Italian Dining

For a special night out, these Italian restaurants provide the perfect romantic setting.

• Tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, Le Grazie offers an intimate dining experience. Their candlelit tables and exquisite menu make it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner.

Restaurant Michelangelo

• With its elegant decor and refined menu, Restaurant Michelangelo is perfect for a date night. Their extensive wine list and gourmet dishes ensure a memorable evening.

Modern Italian Cuisine

These restaurants put a contemporary spin on traditional Italian dishes, offering a unique dining experience.

• A small, trendy spot, Battuto is known for its innovative take on Italian cuisine. Their ever-changing menu features fresh, local ingredients and creative dishes.

Nina Pizza Napolitaine

• Combining traditional Neapolitan pizza with modern flavors, Nina Pizza Napolitaine offers a unique dining experience. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a perfect, crispy crust.

Hidden Italian Gems

These lesser-known spots offer incredible Italian food without the crowds.

• A hidden gem in the heart of the city, Sapristi offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with delicious Italian dishes. Their homemade pastas and extensive wine list are highlights.

Trattoria La Scala

• Often overlooked, Trattoria La Scala provides an authentic Italian dining experience. Their menu features a variety of traditional dishes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Savoring Italian Cuisine in Québec City

Québec City offers a delightful mix of Italian restaurants that cater to every taste. From cozy trattorias to upscale dining spots, there's something for everyone. Restaurant Il Matto stands out with its authentic dishes and warm ambiance. La Scala impresses with its elegant setting and flavorful menu. Portofino brings a touch of Italy with its wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas. Sapristi offers a modern twist on traditional recipes, making it a favorite among locals. Each of these places provides a unique dining experience, ensuring you enjoy the best of Italian cuisine. Next time you're in Québec City, make sure to visit these hidden gems. Your taste buds will thank you. Enjoy the rich flavors and welcoming atmosphere that these restaurants have to offer. Buon appetito!

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