Choose from 24 Fun Things to Do in Quebec City
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Basilique-Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Quebec
The oldest Christian parish north of Mexico, the grandiose Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec started life as a much more modest church in 1647 but was damaged and rebuilt several times—most recently in the 1920s following a devastating fire. The basilica is a must-see for anyone with an interest in architecture, art, and history.
The Basics
The cathedral is a common stop during walking tours and history-focused sightseeing tours of UNESCO-listed Old Quebec, the historic heart of French Canada. During summer, it’s possible to take guided tours of the basilica crypt—where important figures, including François de Laval, the first bishop of New France—are interred.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Services in the church are conducted in French.
- The cathedral is wheelchair accessible.
- Panels providing information are placed throughout the church.
How to Get There
The Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec is located on Rue de Buade in Old Quebec. It’s less than five minutes from the Quebec Funicular. From the Gare du Palais train station, it’s around 10 minutes away on foot. Alternatively, ride the 11 bus from Gare Palais to the de Buade stop.
When to Get There
Most visitors come to Quebec City during summer, when the port is open to cruise ships. During these times, the cathedral can become pretty crowded. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. The cathedral is at its quietest and most peaceful on weekdays in winter.
Treasures of the Cathedral
The cathedral’s interior is lavish. The ceiling is painted like a sky complete with clouds and gold-leaf decoration, while vividly colored stained glass windows let in a soft light. While most of its important artworks and artifacts were destroyed by the devastating 1922 fire, a chancel lamp that gifted by Louis XIV, somehow survived and can still be seen on display here.
Address: 20 rue de Buade, Latin Quarter, Quebec City, Canada
From $ 24
Upper Town (Haute-Ville)
Perched atop Cape Diamond (Cap Diamant) overlooking the St. Lawrence River, Upper Town (Haute-Ville) is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec). Historic fortifications, built by the French and British, enclose a series of well-preserved streets lined with buildings dating back as far as the 17th century.
The Basics
Upper Town is where most Quebec City visitors spend the majority of their time. Many of the city’s top attractions are located here, including the Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec, the Citadel of Quebec (La Citadelle de Québec), Chateau Frontenac hotel, and the Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin) boardwalk, which offers sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains.
Many walking tours cover parts of Upper Town, as well as attractions in Lower Town (Basse-Ville), such as Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and Place Royale.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get There
Upper Town and Lower Town are connected by around 30 sets of stairways. The Old Quebec Funicular, accessible via Rue du Petit-Champlain in Lower Town and Dufferin Terrace in Upper Town, also connects the two parts of the city.
When to Get There
Quebec City receives most visitors during the summer season, when cruise ships regularly dock in port. At this time, you’ll find a wide array of attractions, historic programs, and tours to experience, but should also expect crowds. Winter, when subzero temperatures and snow are the norm, is typically quieter, except during the Quebec Winter Carnival, which takes place in February in venues throughout Upper Town.
Chateau Frontenac
The jewel of Upper Town is the oft-photographed Chateau Frontenac hotel. Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway company in 1893 as bait to entice travelers to Quebec City, the elegant building wows with its copper turrets, dormer windows, and imposing setting atop Cape Diamond. Tours of the hotel interior are available to non-guests, and the hotel’s bar offers front-row views of the St. Lawrence River.
Address: Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, Canada
From $ 20
Old Quebec (Vieux Quebec)
With its narrow, cobbled streets and historic 17th- and 18th-century homes and monuments, there’s no place else in Canada that feels quite like Old Quebec (Vieux Quebec). As the only existing fortified city north of Mexico, it’s full of living history, rich Quebecois culture, and European-style charm. The historic district of Old Quebec—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is a must-see when in Quebec City.
The Basics
Walking tours are a great way to experience Old Quebec, as its many sights, including the Château Frontenac and Dufferin Terrace, are best explored on foot. The area can also be seen by bike and even from the air. Those interested in experiencing the old city through its food can take a food tour and sample the best of many French-Canadian eats. Most Quebec City tours include a stop at the area’s Place Royale, which is considered the cradle of French civilization in North America.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get There
The historic Old Quebec district is located inside Quebec City, which has its own airport but is also easily accessible as a day trip or overnight from Montreal. The nearest train and bus station is Gare du Palais. Walking tours tend to begin within the old city walls, while bus tours offer hotel pickup and drop-off.
When to Get There
Summer is the most popular time to visit Quebec City, and while the warm weather draws larger crowds, it also allows for al fresco dining and charming sidewalk cafés. The winter months are also full of activity and are quite beautiful if you don’t mind the cold—average winter temperatures are often below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 Celsius).
Highlights of Old Quebec
The winding streets of Vieux Quebec are charming in their own right, but the old city’s many monuments and museums are not to be overlooked. Particularly picturesque are the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Quebec, La Citadelle, and the Place Royale. Also worth a visit are the nearby Plains of Abraham, a historic park and former battlefield, and the beautiful Montmorency Falls, on the Beaupré shore. These can all be visited easily in one day and are included in most Quebec City sightseeing tours.
Address: Quebec City, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 15
Quebec City Cruise Port
At the confluence of the St. Charles and St. Lawrence rivers, the bustling port of Quebec offers access to one of Canada’s most well-known tourist destinations: the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec). Within the 400-year-old city’s walls are a host of historical attractions, such as Chateau Frontenac and Place Royale.
The Basics
Quebec City cruise port is the gateway to Old Quebec, with many walking tours of both Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville) departing from the port. Some shore excursions focus on the French-influenced culinary scene of Quebec City and go beyond the old town to hip neighborhoods, such as Saint-Jean-Baptiste or Saint-Roch, where participants can sample Quebec-made cheese and wine.
Half- and full-day shore excursions often venture to sights outside the city limits, such as Montmorency Falls, the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, and Orleans Island (lle d’Orléans), while short helicopter rides offer a bird’s-eye perspective on Quebec City’s historic fortifications and the mighty St. Lawrence River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get to Quebec City from the Quebec City Cruise Port
Cruise ships visiting Quebec City dock at one of two locations: the Old Port (Vieux-Port) or Lower Town (Basse-Ville). Both are within walking distance of the historic core of the city. On busy days when several cruise ships are docking all at once, some vessels may dock a little further downriver. When this does happen, shuttle buses are usually available to drop passengers to the Old Port area.
Port Information
The cruise terminal has a tourist information kiosk, where visitors can find out more about Quebec City attractions and activities. Free Wi-Fi is also available at the port. While French is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist-friendly Old Quebec.
Address: 84, Dalhousie Street, Quebec City, Quebec G1K 8M5, Canada
From $ 15
Fortifications of Quebec
Encircling Old Quebec, these historic fortifications are the defense system of the only surviving walled city in North America. Originally developed by the French to protect them from the British, and later by the British to protect them from the Americans, the restored walls are now a National Historic Site.
The Basics
Running for 2.8 miles (4.6 kilometers) around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Quebec, the Fortifications of Quebec, which were built between the 17th and 19th centuries, are hard to miss. You can follow the circuit yourself, admiring the sweeping views of the city and the St. Lawrence River from the walls. Alternatively, go as part of guided walking tours during the summer months, during which tour leaders provide background on the the city’s military past. You can also view the ramparts during hop-on hop-off bus tours, and bike tours of Quebec City.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get There
A good place to start your fortifications walk is at St. John Gate (Porte St-Jean) near Place D’Youville. The square is about a 10-minute walk from Château Frontenac. Local buses stop at nearby D’Youville bus terminal.
When to Get There
The best time to explore the fortifications is during summer, when the warm temperatures make for pleasant strolling. Go early in the morning to experience it at its quietest. The fortifications are also a nice place to watch the sunset.
Old Quebec’s Defenses
Though Quebec’s defensive walls are now used more for sightseeing and recreation, evidence of their military purpose still exists. Look out for cannons near the Citadelle of Quebec, which point out to the river as well as to the city itself. At Porte Saint-Louis, take a short detour down Rue Saint-Louis until the intersection with Rue du Corps de Garde, where you can see a rogue cannonball lodged in the trunk of a tree—a vestige from an old battle.
Address: 100 rue St-Louis, Old Upper Town, Quebec City, Canada
Hours: Open daily, May-October
From $ 15
Place Royale
The passing of centuries has had little impact on this cobbled 17th-century plaza, which has been at the center of Quebec City life since Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608. The Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, the oldest stone church in North America, still stands here, and the Fresque des Québécois mural can be seen nearby.
The Basics
With its cobbled surfaces and centuries-old stone-brick buildings, Place Royale’s film-set good looks make it one of Canada’s most charming squares. Almost all sightseeing tours of Old Quebec, whether done by foot or by bike, include Place Royale on their itinerary, alongside other historical city landmarks, such Place d’Armes, Chateau Frontenac, and the Plains of Abraham. Hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses also stop near the square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get There
Place Royale is located in Quebec’s Lower Town (Basse-Ville) and is just a short walk from Quebec City Ferry Terminal. To get there from the Gare du Palais train station, ride the number 1 or 11 buses.
When to Get There
Place Royale is located within Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From May through October, many tourists descend on this part of the city, often from cruise ships, and the square can get busy. If you want to photograph the square without the crowds, get there early in the day.
The Mural
North of the square just off Notre-Dame Street (Rue Notre-Dame) sits the large Fresque des Québécois mural, which covers the entire side of a 5-story building. The mural references the history of Quebec City, with some 30 notable figures included in it, among them former political leaders, artists, and writers.
Address: 27 rue Notre-Dame, Old Lower Town, Quebec City, Canada
From $ 15
Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency)
Higher than Niagara Falls, the impressive Montmorency Falls stand 272 feet (83 meters) tall and serve as the centerpiece of Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency). The site is a year-round destination for visitors to Quebec City and Montreal, offering an array of outdoor activities and the stunning sight of the falls, which form at the mouth of the Montmorency River and drop over a cliff into the St. Lawrence River.
The Basics
One of Quebec City’s highlights, Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency) is often visited on city sightseeing tours and dedicated bike tours. For a close-up view of the waterfall, you can climb the 487-step mountainside staircase or take the fee-based cable car to the top, where you can cross a suspended bridge over the crest of the falls to access both sides of the park. In summer, adventurous travelers can go ziplining over Montmorency Falls or try out the park's via ferrata circuits in summer, while winter travelers can take part in snowshoeing and ice climbing here.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get There
The falls are located on the boundary between Beauport and Boischatel, about 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) from the heart of Old Quebec. The site offers two paid parking lots, one below the falls and another above the falls. To reach Montmorency Falls by car, take Autoroute 20 northeast from Montreal to Quebec City. Then take Autoroute 440 east out of Quebec City.
When to Get There
One might think think Montmorency Falls is only nice to visit in the summer, but the park is actually suitable as a year-round attraction. Ziplining is offered from May to October, and if you’re visiting in July or August, you can try out the via ferrata circuits or catch the international fireworks competition that takes place at the park. In winter, the cable car still runs and the falls gain the famous "Sugarloaf," an impressive mound of ice that forms at the foot of the falls and sometimes reaches up to 98 feet (30 meters) tall.
Address: Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 10
Terrasse Dufferin
At the base of the Château Frontenac, Quebec City’s Terrasse Dufferin promenade looks out across the St Lawrence River from its clifftop perch atop Cap Diamant. Named after Lord Dufferin, who was Canada’s governor between 1872 and 1878, come in summertime when green and white-topped gazebos fill the 425-meter-long boardwalk and street performers entertain. Time your visit for the early evening, and you’ll also get to see the sun set over the Laurentian Mountains to the north. In winter, Dufferin Terrasse is especially popular for its Les Glissades de la Terrasse toboggan run, which wooshes people up to 60 mph down an 82-meter slide.
Just underneath Terrasse Dufferin, by the statue of Samuel de Champlain, you can visit the archaeological site of Champlain’s second fort which dates back to 1620. The residence and base of power for French, and later British, governors for over two centuries, excavations from the 17th-century fort and surrounding chateaus between 2005-2007 have revealed plenty of wine bottles, giving an insight into the hedonistic lifestyles of some of Quebec’s first governors.
Just above Terrasse Dufferin, Jardin des Gouverneurs is another popular visit. In the center of the lawn, look out for the 50-foot-tall Wolfe-Montcalm Monument which commemorates the 1759 Battle of the Plains of Abraham.
Practical Info
Dufferin Terrasse is located behind Château Frontenac at 6 Place Terrasse. Les Glissades de la Terrasse is open from mid-December till late March, ($2.50 per person), from 11am-11pm daily. Open daily from May to October, free tours of the St-Louis Forts and Chateaux National Historic Site are available through Parks Canada. Look out for their kiosk, which is on Dufferin Terrasse.
Address: 6 Place Terrasse, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada G1R 4N5, Canada
Admission: $2.50
From $ 19
Petit-Champlain
At the foot of Cap Diamant in the historic Lower Town (Basse-Ville) of Quebec City, the Petit-Champlain quartier is one of the oldest spots in the city and said to be home to the oldest commercial street in North America; Rue du Petit-Champlain.
In the beginning of Quebec’s history, Petit-Champlain was little more than portside village made up of just a few homes and fur trading posts. Today, after a huge urban restoration project, the quartier is bursting with sidewalk cafes, galleries, restaurants, and boutiques hidden down narrow cobblestone streets. The area is also well-known as an artists’ enclave, and nearly fifty of its stores are run by a local artists’ co-op.
On the side of 102 Rue du Petit-Champlain, look out for a huge trompe-l'œil. Designed by Murale Création, the famous mural shows different stages of Quebec’s history, from the bombardments to the landslides to the people who set down their roots here by the shores of St Lawrence.
Petit-Champlain is also home to the famous Breakneck Stairs that connect Upper and Lower Town. The oldest stairs in the city, they were first built in 1635 and given their terrifying nickname in the mid-19th century. Don’t worry, though. More recent renovations mean they’re not as scary as they sound!
Practical Info
Part of the Vieux Quebec UNESCO World Heritage site, Petit-Champlain sits at the bottom of Breakneck Stairs and the funicular connecting the Upper and Lower Town.
Address: Petit-Champlain, Quebec, Canada
Hours: Daily
From $ 20
Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church
Built in 1687, in the historic Lower Town of Quebec City, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires is one of the oldest churches in North America. Lying atop the ruins of the city’s first outpost, which was built by the Father of New France, Samuel de Champlain, in 1608, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires dominates Place Royale square. Over the centuries, this Roman Catholic church has seen its fair share of battles between the French and British. And after the Battle of Quebec in 1690, the church was given its Notre Dame moniker in recognition of the Virgin Mary protecting the city from danger. However, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church was almost completely destroyed by a later British bombardment during the 1759 Battle of the Plains of Abraham.
Restored in 1816, the church was named a National Historic Site of Canada in 1988 because of its beauty and history. A working church with regular Sunday services, a particularly special time to visit is on January 3. On this feast day of patron St. Genevieve, who is said to protect against famine, the church hands out little buns as blessings.
Practical Info
In Place Royale in Quebec City’s Lower Town, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church is open daily to the public from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Address: 32 Rue Sous le Fort, Quebec, Canada
Hours: Daily 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
From $ 15
Plains of Abraham
Part of Battlefields Park, this grassy expanse was the setting for a major military clash in 1759, which led to the British takeover of New France—a battle that is well-documented in the Plains of Abraham Museum. The park is an outdoor playground for Quebec City residents who come here to stroll, cycle, jog, sled, and cross-country ski.
The Basics
The Plains of Abraham is one of the most important historical sites in Quebec City and also doubles as a popular recreational space. Delve into the region’s history at the Plains of Abraham Museum, which hosts an exhibition detailing the battles fought on this site. The park is dotted with military remnants, including cannons and a British-built Martello tower.
The plains are a common stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours of Quebec City. They can also be seen from above during helicopter tours, which fly over Old Quebec (Vieux Quebec), the St. Lawrence River, and, depending on the selected route, other sights in the region, such as Montmorency Falls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get There
The Plains of Abraham is situated within Battlefields Park in Quebec City. The most scenic approach is on foot from the Chateau Frontenac hotel: Follow Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin) and the Promenade des Gouverneurs riverside boardwalk east to reach the plains.
When to Get There
The best time to come is between July and September, when Battlefields Park hosts many special activities, including guided bus tours, special guided tours by lantern, and an exhibition in the Martello tower. In early October, the park is full of colorful fall foliage, while in winter, it is a magnet for snowshoers and cross-country skiers.
Plains of Abraham Nearby Sights
Bundle a park visit with one or two other nearby attractions. Bordering the park is the Citadel of Quebec, a military fortress that hosts tours and museums. To the north of the park is the National Museum of Fine Arts (Musée National des Beaux-Arts), which contains a permanent collection of more than 38,000 works, including pieces from Quebec art legends such as Jean-Paul Riopelle and Inuit artwork from Nunavik, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories.
Address: 835 Wilfrid-Laurier Avenue, Quebec City, Canada
From $ 32
Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupr e Basilica
One of Canada’s most-visited shrines, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica (Sanctuaire Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré) attracts more than a million pilgrims every year. Though the shrine’s origins can be traced back to the 17th century, the colossal twin-spired basilica that stands today—which dwarfs the modest village in which it sits—is much newer, having opened only in 1934.
The Basics
While the shrine of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré serves as a pilgrimage site, it also attracts sightseers. Visitors come to admire the elaborate construction and its artful stained glass windows, mosaics, and sculptures. The basilica also contains relics (specifically bone fragments) said to belong to St. Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary and grandmother of Jesus Christ.
Most visitors come here as part of organized day tours from Quebec City. Day tours typically include transportation to and from Old Quebec, and make stops at other locations on the outskirts of the city such as Montmorency Falls and Orleans Island (Ile d’Orléans) in the St. Lawrence River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get There
Saint-Anne-de-Beaupré is fewer than 30 minutes from Quebec City by car. Intercar buses depart from Gare du Palais train station in Quebec City, though departures are infrequent, with buses leaving only every few hours. Depending on their schedule, car-free travelers may find it more convenient to go as part of an organized tour.
When to Get There
The shrine is busiest during the summer months, particularly during St. Anne’s feast day on July 26, and during the Novena to St. Anne, which takes place during the week leading up to the feast. Get there around opening (8am) to see the interior at its most peaceful and tranquil.
What Else to See in Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré
As tiny as the town of Saint-Anne-de-Beaupré is—with fewer than 3,000 residents—it does have a small cluster of tourist attractions. In addition to the basilica, you can see the Cyclorama of Jerusalem, a panoramic artwork depicting the Crucifixion; Musée Edison du Phonograph, a small museum devoted to phonographs; and the Atelier Paré, an economuseum that displays wood sculptures.
Address: 10018 Avenue Royale, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
Hours: Mon - Sat: 7am - 5pm, Sun: 8:30am - 6pm
From $ 44
Saint-Roch
A working-class area and shipbuilding site since the early 1800s, up until a decade ago the Saint-Roch district of Quebec City was an industrial wasteland. Today, it’s the hippest district in the city that’s full of 19th-century factories-turned-nightlife hangouts, alternative stores, tech startups, and bistros. Even the 150-year-old Notre-Dame-de-Jacques-Cartier church has been given a second life as Espace Hypérion, a creative performance center.
Most of the action in Saint-Roch takes places on the main commercial street, rue Saint-Joseph, where hundreds of millions of dollars have been poured into renovations over the past 10 years.
Spanning 15 square blocks, even the quarter’s new name is up-to-the-minute: the “Nouvo” in Nouvo Saint-Roch is text speak for “nouveau.” And in the east streets of Saint-Roch, on the pillars beneath the Dufferin-Montmorency expressway, look out for giant, colorful murals featuring everything from oversized church doors to chess boards.
Practical Info
Saint-Roch is a very walkable area, though a steep 1km walk downhill from the historic Upper Town. On rue Sainte-Claire, take the Ascenseur du Faubourg from Upper Town to make life a little easier on your legs.
Address: Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, Canada
From $ 32
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.
Address: Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, Canada
From $ 44
Orleans Island (Ile d'Orleans)
Home to just a half-dozen heritage villages, Orleans Island measures 22 miles (35 kilometers) long and six miles (nine kilometers) wide. Located in the St. Lawrence River just downstream of Quebec City, this finger-like sliver of an island charms visitors with its expansive fertile farmland filled with vineyards, apple orchards, and sugar bush.
The Basics
A bus tour from Quebec City is a great way to reach the island, which is connected to the mainland by the Orleans Island Bridge (Pont de l’Île d'Orléans). These tours usually take passengers around the island’s circular Route 368 road, making frequent stops at chocolate factories, wineries, sugar shacks, and ice cider producers so participants can sample local products. Active travelers can embark on a kayaking tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get There
Orleans Island is located about 10 miles (17 kilometers) from Old Quebec. PLUMobile buses run between Quebec City and Orleans Island, Monday through Friday, though there are only a few departures every day. Because of the limited public transport options, it’s often easier to visit by car or organized tour.
When to Get There
Summer and early autumn are the best times to go kayaking or cycling around the island. During winter, the island is blissfully quiet, and there are cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities, but some attractions are closed. Sugar shack season usually takes place in March and April with maple syrup producers serving maple-themed meals and hosting live folk music and dances in their cabins.
Wine Tasting on Orleans Island
When French explorer Jacques Cartier stumbled across the island in 1535, he named it Island of Bacchus because of the vines that grew here. More than four centuries later, Orleans Island is well-established as one of Quebec’s leading wine regions, and is particularly well-known for its production of ice wine, a sweet wine made by pressing frozen grapes.
Address: Quebec City, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 46
Quebec City Old Port (Vieux-Port)
During the 17th century, Quebec City’s charming Old Port (Vieux-Port) was bustling with European vessels and crews offloading supplies to New France. Now thronged with passengers from incoming cruise ships, the area is filled with historic buildings occupied by art galleries, boutiques, and inviting French-influenced restaurants.
The Basics
The Old Port area of Quebec City is among the city’s most atmospheric districts. Visitors arriving in the city by cruise will pass through here on their way from Lower Town to Upper Town, while those who arrive by other means may be drawn here to visit the Museum of Civilization (Musée de la Civilisation), the Old Port Market (Marché du Vieux-Port), or Place Royale and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, one of the oldest churches in Quebec. Many walking, cycling, and scooter tours of the city cover Old Port, as do hop-on hop-off bus tours, which also venture to UNESCO World Heritage–listed Old Quebec.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get There
If you arrive in Quebec City by cruise ship, you’ll most likely disembark at Quebec City Old Port, which sits alongside the St. Lawrence River. Visitors coming by train will arrive at the Gare du Palais station, at the eastern border of the Old Port district. The number 11 bus connects Old Quebec to Old Port.
When to Get There
The Old Port area is busiest between May and October, when cruise ships dock here. Docking days vary according to schedules, but Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are typically busiest. For a quieter experience, go in winter when fewer tourists roam the atmospheric, snow-covered streets. Note that some stores and restaurants may be closed during the winter season.
The Old Port Quebec Market
Quebec City’s cuisine has a distinctive French influence, and—thanks to the fertile regions surrounding the city—an abundance of fresh, local produce. Take stock of Quebec’s food scene at the Old Port Market, where vendors sell farm-fresh produce trucked in from farms just outside the city. You can sample local cheese, charcuterie, maple syrup, and ice wine, and pick up locally grown produce at this year-round market.
Address: 100 rue St Andre, Quebec City G1K 3Y2, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 24
Hôtel de Glace
The first ice hotel in North America, Quebec’s Hôtel de Glace is sculpted over the course of five weeks every winter from over 500 tons of ice and 15,000 tons of snow. Open from January until late March with 44 bedrooms and suites, the hotel even has its own wedding chapel made of ice.
In fact, everything’s made of ice, from the huge chandelier in the Great Hall to the icy frozen blocks that make up the hotel’s beds. Thanks to high-tech sleeping bags and plush deer pelts, you’ll still be able to keep cozy on an overnight stay, and the outdoor spa and sauna will help to warm you up, too. Even if you’re not staying the night, you can head to the Hôtel de Glace’s Ice Bar for a chilled vodka shot (or a hot chocolate for the kids). Kids and adults will also love the chance to zip down the hotel’s famous ice slide.
Practical Info
Ten minutes north of downtown on 9530 rue de la faune, the Hôtel de Glace is open from January 5 until March 22 each year. Guided tours are available, or you can check out the hotel’s public spaces and bar independently for $18 ($14 after 8pm). To stay the night, prices start at $269 per person, which includes a welcome cocktail, access to the hot tub and sauna, breakfast and all gratuities.
Address: 9530 Rue de la Faune, Quebec, Canada
Hours: Daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 445
Citadel of Quebec (Citadelle de Quebec)
The huge star-shaped Citadel of Quebec (La Citadelle de Quebec) is the largest military fortress in North America still occupied by troops. Begun by the French in the 1750s, the fortress was completed by the British in the mid-19th century, but never actually saw any action. Today, Canada’s French-speaking Royal 22nd Regiment (Royal 22e Régiment) is based here.
The Basics
Sightseeing and hop-on hop-off bus tours of Quebec City often visit the Citadel of Quebec, with guides providing commentary about its history and current role as a base for Canadian forces. Purchase a ticket to explore the National Historic Site and access the Royal 22nd Regiment Museum (Musée Royal 22e Régiment), where weapons, uniforms, and other military artifacts are displayed. French- and English-language guided tours of the complex take place at least every hour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- 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.
How to Get There
The fort is set atop Cape Diamond (Cap Diamant), which overlooks the St. Lawrence River. Reach the citadel by car via Côte de la Citadelle (limited parking is available at the site). It’s about a 30-minute walk from Gare du Palais train station and a 20-minute walk from Chateau Frontenac. RTC buses (3 and 11) stop next to Côte de la Citadelle.
When to Get There
Summer is the best time to visit: Tours are more frequent, the weather is warmer, and troops can be seen performing special ceremonies. Changing of the Guard ceremonies take place daily at 10am from June 24 through Labour Day in early September, while Beating of the Retreat ceremonies run at 5pm on Wednesdays in July and August. Nighttime tours by lantern take place from June to October.
Regimental Ceremonies at the Citadel
The Changing of the Guard marks the handover between the previous sentries on duty and the batch of troops taking over for them. Officers inspect the troops, with the military band providing music and the well-behaved mascot, Batisse the goat, also taking part. Meanwhile, the Beating of the Retreat marks the end of the day and sees guards assemble on the parade square to fire rifles. Troops wear bearskin hats and red regimental coats during both ceremonies.
Address: 201 Côte de la Citadelle, Old Upper Town, Quebec City, Canada
From $ 15
Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum
Run by the wife and family of the late, great coppersmith, Albert Gilles, the Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum showcases artwork by both Gilles and his family. Part of the economusee network of Canada, this small museum allows visitors to make their own copper memento, and groups with reservations will get to see live copper work demos. In the museum store, you’ll also find artworks and jewelry for sale.
Albert Gilles was born in Paris in 1895, where an aunt taught him the craft of copper embossing. Crossing the Atlantic in the 1930s to make a new life in Quebec, Gilles quickly established a name for himself as a master coppersmith and created work for everyone from Walt Disney to Pope XII. Perhaps his most famous work is the copper doors he created for Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré basilica, 22 miles outside Quebec City. This famous cathedral receives up to half a million pilgrims a year, and in Quebec City itself you can spot Albert Gilles’ designs on the copper roof of the iconic Château Frontenac hotel.
Practical Info
A 20-minute drive from Quebec City in the Château-Richer on 7450 Boulevard Sainte-Anne, entrance to the Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum is free. The museum is open daily from 8:30am-5pm between May and October, and from 9am-4pm from November to April.
Address: 7450 Boulevard Sainte-Anne Château-Richer, Quebec City, Canada
Hours: 8:30am-5pm daily between May and October; 9am-4pm daily from November to April
From $ 44
Capital Observatory (Observatoire de la Capitale)
Towering over Parliament Hill at the 31st floor of the city's highest skyscraper, Capital Observatory is Quebec City's premier and uppermost viewpoint. Having welcomed over a million visitors since it first opened its doors in 1998, it offers breathtaking panoramas 221 meters over sea level of not only Quebec City itself but also the mighty St. Lawrence River, Island of Orleans, Appalachian Foothills and the Laurentians. A special exhibit named Horizons takes visitors on a discovery experience presenting four perspectives of Quebec City filled with cool facts and stories about the local history centered around four main themes: politics, history, culture, and society.
Practical Info
Capital Observatory is located on rue de la Chevrotière in Quebec City, Canada. It can easily be reached by car via Grande Allee and there is ample underground parking inside the building; alternatively, it can also be reached via public transit (buses 1a and 11 at stop Grande Allee Est / du General-De Montcalm or a dozen other lines at stop C. Parlementaire Rene-Levesque Est / Jean Jacques-Bertrand). It is open every day from 10am to 5 pm. Entry costs $14 per adult, $11 per student/+65 year olds. It is free of charge for children under the age of 12.
Address: 1037 De La Chevrotière, Quebec City, Quebec G1R 5E9, Canada
Hours: Every day from 10am to 5pm
Admission: Adults: $14; Students/65+: $11; Under 12: Free
From $ 32