Choose from 24 Fun Things to Do in Quebec City
Hôtel de Glace
Practical Info
Plains of Abraham
- The Plains of Abraham are a must-visit for history buffs.
- Guided tours of the site begin at the Plains of Abraham Museum, which has a gift shop and exhibitions detailing the history of the site.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible and select paved trails around the park are also suitable for wheelchair users.
Citadel of Quebec (Citadelle de Quebec)
- The Citadel of Quebec is a must for anyone with an interest in military history.
- A good portion of the tour takes place outdoors, so wear weather-appropriate clothing.
- The citadel is wheelchair accessible.
Lower Town (Basse-Ville)
Between Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and the St. Lawrence River, Lower Town (Basse-Ville) is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec). Aside from cobbled streets lined with boutiques, galleries, and French-style bistros, the neighborhood is also home to Place Royale, the site of the first settlement of New France.
The Basics
Lower Town is the oldest part of Quebec City and contains a high concentration of historic buildings and sights. Some visitors wander the streets independently, perusing the galleries and boutiques of the area. Others explore on biking and walking tours, which focus on key historical locales, including Place Royale and the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, one of the oldest stone churches in North America, as well as following scenic pathways near the St. Lawrence River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lower Town is a must-see for all first-time visitors to Quebec City.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there are lots of cobbled surfaces to contend with in this neighborhood.
- The funicular that connects Quebec City’s Upper Town and Lower Town is wheelchair accessible, as are many attractions in Lower Town, including the Museum of Civilization (Musée de la Civilisation). The streets themselves, many of which are cobbled and sloping, may prove challenging to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Lower Town and Upper Town are connected by about 30 sets of stairways. The Old Quebec Funicular, accessible via Rue Petit-Champlain in Lower Town connects to Dufferin Terrace in Upper Town, linking the two parts of the city.
When to Get There
With its European-style architecture and small street-side boutiques, Lower Town is charming year-round. Go in summer when the weather is warm, so you can wander in comfort and enjoy alfresco meals on restaurant terraces. In winter, the snow-sprinkled streets are picturesque, though the subzero temperatures may be a challenge for those not used to such conditions.
Exploring Lower Town
Many visitors’ explorations of Lower Town begin at the Old Port (Vieux-Port), where cruise ships dock. From here, browse food stalls at the Old Port Market (Marché du Vieux-Port) and stop by the Museum of Civilization, which hosts exhibits focusing on local cultures and people. Other points of interest in Lower Town include the Naval Museum of Quebec, situated on the riverfront, and the large-scale Fresque des Québécois mural near Place Royale.
Upper Town (Haute-Ville)
- Upper Town is a must for all first-time visitors to Quebec.
- Wear comfortable shoes. While Upper Town is relatively compact, it’s also got lots of steep streets and uneven cobblestone surfaces.
- Some key sights in Upper Town, including the Basilique-Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Québec and the Citadel of Quebec, are wheelchair accessible, though many shops and restaurants offer only stepped access.
Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupr e Basilica
- The basilica is a must-visit for fans of history, religion and religious art, and architecture.
- Sainte-Anne-de-Beapré Basilica is an active religious site. Be respectful of those worshiping here.
- The basilica is partially accessible to wheelchair users.
- Masses take place several times daily, with extra services on Sunday. All masses are in French.
Basilique-Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Quebec
- Services in the church are conducted in French.
- The cathedral is wheelchair accessible.
- Panels providing information are placed throughout the church.
Terrasse Dufferin
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Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church
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Orleans Island (Ile d'Orleans)
- Bundle up in winter. Orleans Island gets a lot of snow, and sub-zero temperatures are the norm from November through April.
- Temperatures rise in summer, so be sure to wear sunblock if kayaking or biking.
- Bikes are available for rent on the island.
- When returning back to the mainland, look out for Montmorency Falls, which can be seen from the bridge.
Old Quebec (Vieux Quebec)
- A knowledgeable local tour guide can provide context for all the history and culture you’re viewing and experiencing.
- Old Quebec’s streets are mainly cobblestone, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Fortifications of Quebec
- The fortifications are a must-do for anyone with an interest in military history and defense.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes, as some parts of the fortifications are sloping and uneven.
- Most of the fortifications are not wheelchair-friendly, though the Citadelle of Quebec (La Citadelle) is.
- Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the fortifications.
Quebec City Cruise Port
- Quebec City shore excursions range in length from short 15-minute helicopter rides to full-day tours incorporating out-of-town attractions.
- Some shore excursions include pickup and drop-off at the port.
- Quebec City’s streets are cobbled with lots of steps, so comfortable footwear is advised.
Capital Observatory (Observatoire de la Capitale)
Practical Info
Quebec City Old Port (Vieux-Port)
- You can find plenty of outdoor seating along the Old Port waterfront.
- Parts of the Old Port area, including the Museum of Civilization, are accessible to wheelchair users.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes; some of the streets in this area are cobbled and uneven.
Petit-Champlain
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Saint-Roch
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Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum
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Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency)
- Fees apply for the cable car, ziplining, via ferrata access, and snowshoe rentals.
- Food is offered at the cable car station, at Manoir Montmorency, and at La Terrasse du Manoir.
- The park features three playgrounds for kids.
- Much of the park is wheelchair accessible, although only some of the viewing platforms can be reached by wheelchair.
Place Royale
- As the birthplace of New France, Place Royale is a must-see for history-buffs.
- The ground at Place Royale is cobbled and uneven and is best suited to able-bodied travelers.
- Allow some time to explore the boutiques dotting the square.
- Bring a camera as the square makes for a picturesque backdrop.