Discover the best things to do in Quebec City, from exploring historic sites to indulging in culinary delights. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of this charming destination. Quebec City, nestled along the shores of the Saint Lawrence River, beckons with a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. As you embark on your journey, let's unravel a curated list of activities that showcase the essence of things to do in Quebec City.
Best Things to Do in Quebec City
Quebec City's heart, Old Quebec, is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and quaint shops. Stroll through Place Royale, immerse yourself in the tales of centuries past, and savor the ambiance of this picturesque area.
01. Take a walking tour of Old Quebec.
Founded by French explorer Samuel de Champlain in 1608, the historic district of Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the continent's only fully walled city north of Mexico. Across the street from Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, visit the tourist information center in Upper Town to join a historical walking tour with Tours Voir Québec. Or book a private adventure with Tours Accolade, which offers tours based on your genealogy and multi-sensory travel for the visually impaired.
02. Explore the Quartier Petit Champlain.
Immerse yourself in 17th-century New France by strolling through Petit-Champlain and Place Royale. "The oldest stone church north of Mexico, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires (built 1687); grab a coffee at the Smith Café, and continue your exploration along Petit-Champlain, one of the oldest commercial roads in North America — often among Canada's prettiest roads. Votes are cast,” says Genevieve Guay, front door at Auberge Saint-Antoine.
03. Marvel at the Montmorency Falls.
At 272 feet high, this spectacular waterfall is nearly 100 feet higher than Niagara Falls, and there are plenty of activities nearby, including zip lines and ferrata routes, as well as a suspension bridge, cable car, and cliffside boardwalk with panoramic views. . The main part? It is only a 15 minute drive from the city centre.
04. Have a picnic on the Plains of Abraham.
A site of a battle in 1759, the Plains of Abraham is now a large urban park enjoyed by tourists and locals alike. “The plains are the perfect place for a glass of wine and a gourmet picnic in the summer sun,” says Simon Bovoli, director of concierge services and luxury experiences at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. "I always recommend that visitors find a spot near a river view or a local busker to enjoy a gourmet bakery or fresh produce vendor in town to purchase their picnic essentials."
05. See the world's largest collection of Quebecoise art.
Art lovers will want to spend at least a few hours visiting the 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 discover the remarkable collection of Inuit art housed in the stunning Lassonde Pavilion.
06. Discover the city's military history at Artillery Park.
The park houses 18th-century French army barracks and is a must-see for history buffs. Don't miss the Arsenal Foundry (a giant model of 19th-century Quebec) and the Dauphine Redoubt, where you'll find guides in period costumes speaking in character. "It's not often included on walking tours of the city, or even bus tours are offered, but it's a fascinating place that covers the history of French and British troops in Quebec City from 1712 to the end of the 20th century," said local guide Christian Gingras of Tours Voir Québec. said
07. Admire the view from the St. Lawrence River.
For one of the best views of Quebec City, take the river by passenger ferry — the boat to Lévis leaves every 30 minutes and costs just a few bucks. After a 15-minute walk, you can walk along the waterfront in Levis. "In the winter, it's a great experience when you're on the bridge of the ferry to see the blocks of ice being crushed and pushed around the ship," Gingras said.
08. Learn about the indigenous culture of the area.
Travelers don't have to go far to immerse themselves in the province's rich tribal culture. Just 20 minutes from downtown, Wendeck Hall offers countless ways to learn about the cradle of the Huron-Wendat Nation and its heritage. Attend a craft workshop at the Huron-Wendat Museum, take a night walk through an illuminated forest with Onhwa' Lumina, watch a traditional dance performance, listen to stories at the National Ekionkiesta' Longhouse, or sample delicious First Nations cuisine at Restaurant La Tre.
09. Have afternoon tea at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.
This property has been called the most photographed hotel in the world and it's easy to see why. Perched on a clifftop, the Grand Dame Hotel in Quebec City dates back to 1893 and boasts beautifully preserved decorative features. Even if you're not here, it's worth looking at the chandeliers in the lobby and having a leisurely afternoon tea in the Champlain restaurant, which dates back to 1893.
10. Walk along Dufferin Terrace.
This wooden boardwalk sits next to the Château Frontenac and offers one of the most beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding area. Stroll along the promenade, relax on a bench and enjoy live music from buskers in the summer or go down the local favorite toboggan run in the winter.
11. 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. Sugar season typically runs from late February to early May, but you can also find quality maple syrup year-round at local markets and restaurants. "It's a backbone of our cuisine at the restaurant, and also a staple that you can find in every home in Quebec City," said Tim Moroney, chef-owner of Restaurant Alentour. "If you want to be bold, drink a syrup—maple, birch, and bourbon-aged—tasting at Domaine Small."
12. Join the Quebec Winter Carnival.
This is an outdoor ice skating rink located in Place d'Youville in downtown Quebec City where people can skate while surrounded by the famous Citadel Walls, St. John's Gate, Capitol Theater and Palais Montcalm.
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 such as snow bathing and tobogganing. But one of the main attractions is the artists carving extraordinary snow sculptures.
13. Hit the trail in Jacques-Cartier National Park.
Just a 45-minute drive from downtown, Jacques-Cartier National Park is a spectacular glacial valley cut by a stunning river. There are more than 60 miles of trails to hike, or you can kayak or canoe. And while the park is beautiful year-round, it's especially stunning in late September and early October when Quebec's fall foliage reaches its peak. "The Les Lopes trail rewards you with a spectacular view of the entire valley from its summit," says Guay.
14. Relax in the Nordic Spa.
After all that walking, head to one of Quebec City's many Nordic spas to soak in the thermal waters. There are several options in the heart of Old Quebec, including the architecturally stunning Strom Nordic Spa and Sky Spa; The latter has a year-round rooftop patio and a view of the St. Lawrence River. Prefer to recharge in nature? Visit the Siberia Station Spa to enjoy the hot pool and sauna nestled in the forest.
15. Sample poutine, a regional staple.
No trip to Quebec City would be complete without trying one of Canada's iconic dishes, poutine. For locally sourced food — French fries with cheese curds and gravy — head to La Suche Microbrasserie, which Moroney describes as “a beautiful raw neighborhood brewery” and a “real local hangout” in one.
16. Catch a live show.
Rocking out in Quebec City is easy any time of year, thanks to the many bars de chansonniers (bars with folk music) and concert venues. Guay suggests that true music fans should visit during 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 Seagull Festival brings live performances to the beaches of Baie de Beauport in August, minutes from downtown Quebec City.
17. Visit the Sainte-Anne-de-Beupré pilgrimage site.
The oldest pilgrimage site north of Mexico and one of Quebec City's five temples, the site attracts architecture lovers with its intricate features. Stained glass, stone and wood sculptures decorate the Catholic basilica, and there are also paintings and mosaics to see. In the summer, a river shuttle connects Old Quebec with the temple, making it easy to explore the site and its picturesque surroundings.
18. Explore the island of Ile d'Orleans.
Ile d'Orleans is a bucolic island just 15 minutes by car from Quebec City, and is a favorite among gourmands and history buffs. Home to vineyards, orchards, strawberry fields and century-old buildings, you can easily visit wineries and load up on homemade jams, chocolates and other goodies. For the best view, locals recommend an autumn visit. "As the grapes turn red and gold, sit back and enjoy a glass of locally made wine with views of Montmorency Falls and the colorful Côte de Beaupre," says Franz Noel, co-owner of tour agency Conciergerie du Terorie.
19. Tour the largest British castle in North America.
Sitting on one of the highest points in Quebec City, the Citadel of Quebec is an important 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 trip.
20. Sleep in an ice hotel.
For a one-of-a-kind overnight experience, visit Hotel de Glace, a hotel made of 2,300 ice blocks and 15,000 tons of snow. Located in Village Vacances Valcartier, just 20 minutes from downtown Quebec City, this architectural marvel welcomes guests for tours and overnight stays from January to March.
Room temperatures hover 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 giant snow slides for a truly Canadian adventure.
FAQs
What are the must-try dishes in Quebec City?
Indulge in local delicacies such as poutine, tourtière, and tarte au sucre. These dishes showcase the unique flavors of Quebecois cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Quebec City?
Quebec City's charm is year-round, but the summer months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, while winter transforms the city into a snowy wonderland.
Are there family-friendly activities in Quebec City?
Absolutely! Explore places like the Aquarium du Québec or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Old Quebec for family-friendly fun.
How can I explore Old Quebec City?
Navigate the charming streets of Old Quebec on foot for an immersive experience, discovering hidden gems and absorbing the historical ambiance.
Are there any guided tours available in Quebec City?
Yes, several guided tours cater to different interests, from historical walking tours to culinary adventures, ensuring an enriching experience.
Can I witness the Northern Lights in Quebec City?
While Quebec City offers a northern location, witnessing the Northern Lights is not guaranteed. However, during winter, you might catch a glimpse on clear, dark nights.
Conclusion
Quebec City, with its rich history, captivating landscapes, and vibrant culture, beckons travelers to indulge in a myriad of experiences. From exploring historic sites to savoring culinary delights, this enchanting destination promises a journey filled with unforgettable moments.
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