Things To Do
in Chicoutimi

Locally smoked freshwater fish served as an appetizer or in salads; find it at markets, delis and many restaurants along the riverfront.

Must-Try!

A regional variation of Quebec’s meat pie, rich and seasoned — commonly on menus in bistros and during local holidays.

A must-try; local versions may use regional cheeses, game gravy or smoked fish instead of traditional toppings — available at casual diners and pubs.

Seasonal maple taffy and maple-infused pastries from bakeries and sugar shacks in spring; many cafés offer maple-forward desserts year-round.

Seasonal markets (spring–fall) where you can buy regional cheeses, smoked fish, charcuterie and preserves — great for picnic supplies and tasting local produce.

In summer you’ll find pop-up vendors near the boardwalk serving smoked fish, sandwiches and local sweets—perfect for eating on the go with a fjord view.

French is the dominant language — a simple 'Bonjour' on entering shops and basic French phrases are appreciated. Many people speak some English, especially in tourist spots, but attempting French earns goodwill.

Quebecers are generally polite and direct; use formal greetings when meeting older people and shake hands in initial meetings. Punctuality is valued for appointments.

There’s strong local respect for outdoor spaces — follow trail rules, pack out trash and avoid disturbing wildlife or private land.

Local events are community-oriented; be friendly, support local vendors and respect quiet hours in residential neighbourhoods.

Tipping is customary in restaurants (15–20% of the pre-tax bill for good service), taxis (round up or 10–15%), and for hairdressers or hotel porters (a few dollars). Bars and cafés may expect small tips or rounding up. Service charges are sometimes added for large groups—check the bill.

Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Interac) are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common. Cash (Canadian dollars) is still useful for small vendors or rural spots. Most cards use chip & PIN; notify your bank before travel if using foreign cards.

Warm, pleasant weather (daytime highs often 20–25°C), long daylight hours and many festivals; perfect for kayaking, hiking and enjoying waterfront terraces. Book accommodation early for July–August weekends.

Spectacular fall foliage in September and October; crisp air and comfortable hiking conditions. Some services begin to close in late fall, so check opening dates for attractions.

Cold and snowy (regular sub-zero temperatures), excellent for snow sports — cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling are popular. Dress in warm layers and expect icy sidewalks; winter driving experience recommended.

Variable weather with thawing rivers and melting snow; maple season (sugar shacks) offers unique culinary experiences, but some trails may be muddy or closed early in the season.

Extensive trail network with hikes ranging from easy viewpoints to challenging summit routes; known for panoramic views, alpine tundra in places and excellent snowshoeing terrain in winter.

Iconic fjord trails with dramatic cliffs and lookout points ideal for landscape photography and wildlife observation; several routes along the fjord’s edges provide different perspectives.

Local riverside green space with easy trails, boardwalks and family-friendly paths close to the city — good for short walks and birdwatching.

A network of smaller trails and conservation areas around Chicoutimi and La Baie offering quiet forest walks, mountain biking options and seasonal viewpoints.

The majority of residents are French-speaking with deep cultural roots in Quebec traditions, language and community life.

Université du Québec à Chicoutimi (UQAC) brings a student population, contributing to cultural activities, events and a youthful presence in parts of town.

The broader Saguenay region has Indigenous presence and cultural influence; local recognition and initiatives reflect First Nations heritage.

A diverse set of newcomers and immigrant families add cultural variety, especially in services, restaurants and community organizations.

A dominant community sport at all ages, with local teams, amateur leagues and a strong spectator culture in winter.

Very popular in winter across the Saguenay region, with extensive groomed trails and a strong recreational following.

Water sports on the fjord and rivers are common in summer, including recreational kayaking and guided excursions.

The nearby mountains and fjord attract hikers and trail runners year-round, with popular local events and community groups.

Vegetarian options are available in cafés and most restaurants, though menus may be meat- and fish-forward; ask for salads, vegetable mains or cheese plates and inform staff about preferences.

Vegan choices are growing but more limited than in larger cities; look for dedicated cafés or larger restaurants that can adapt dishes, and check menus online before visiting.

Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, and bakeries sometimes carry gluten-free items — always notify the server to avoid cross-contamination.

Staff are generally helpful; French is the dominant language, so carrying a translated allergy card in French can be useful when communicating dietary needs.