Things To Do
in Quebec City
Nestled along the banks of the Saint Lawrence River, this historic city is the heart of French Canadian culture, uniquely blending old-world charm with modern flair. Its cobblestone streets, fortified walls, and the iconic Château Frontenac give it a distinctive European atmosphere unlike any other in North America.
Renowned for its vibrant festivals, delicious cuisine, and as the only walled city north of Mexico, it offers a captivating experience for all who visit.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering the charming cobblestone streets of Old Quebec. Don’t miss a visit to Château Frontenac for some fantastic photo opportunities.
Enjoy lunch at a local café and then explore the historic Plains of Abraham. The views are stunning, and the history is rich.
Dine at one of the many excellent restaurants in the area. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the city walls to appreciate the night skyline.
Visit the Citadel of Quebec, a National Historic Site, for a guided tour to learn about its military heritage. The panoramic views from the top are worth the climb.
Head to the Museum of Civilization to explore exhibits on the history and culture of Quebec. It's engaging and perfect for all ages.
Enjoy dinner in the trendy Petit Champlain district. Following your meal, catch a performance at the Palais Montcalm or a local music venue.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and stunning architecture, including historic sites like Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Vibrant culture with numerous festivals, events, and a strong emphasis on arts and music.
- Beautiful natural landscapes with easy access to outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and water sports.
- A distinct French-speaking culture, offering a unique blend of European charm and North American conveniences.
- Safe and clean environment with a strong sense of community and a lower crime rate compared to many larger cities.
- Harsh winter weather with heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures that can limit outdoor activities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, particularly for those who do not speak French fluently.
- Higher cost of living compared to other Canadian cities, especially in terms of housing.
- Public transportation options may be less extensive than in larger metropolitan areas.
- Potential isolation due to the city's smaller size and distance from other major urban centers.
Best Activities in Quebec City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic views while biking along the Saint Lawrence River on one of the many bike paths in Quebec City.
Explore the beautiful wilderness of Jacques-Cartier National Park with numerous hiking trails and stunning landscapes.
Paddle along the serene St. Charles River and take in the city's sights from a unique perspective.
Experience the impressive Montmorency Falls and surrounding park with activities such as ziplining, walking trails, and a suspension bridge.
Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in the city's rich culture and architecture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Quebec City with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Quebec City
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and Château Frontenac
Beautiful park offering views of the city and the river
Historic district with charming streets and picturesque views
Scenic walkway providing stunning views of the city and the river
Food in Quebec City
Quebec City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Quebecois dish of French fries smothered in gravy and cheese curds. Try Chez Ashton or Snack Bar Saint-Jean for authentic poutine.
Must-Try!
A savory meat pie traditionally made with ground pork. Enjoy a delicious tourtière at Bistro Le Sam or Aux Anciens Canadiens.
Indulge in maple syrup treats including maple taffy, maple pie, and maple fudge at Marché du Vieux-Port or Érablière du Lac-Beauport.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Quebec City better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for a wide array of fresh produce, locally-made cheeses, and maple products. Also, sample gourmet food and snacks from the various stalls.
Join a guided food tour to discover the best street food in Old Quebec, including crepes, beavertails, and local pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Quebec City, it is important to use French when interacting with locals, as it is the official language. However, many people are bilingual and can also speak English, so it is not a problem if you don't speak French fluently.
It is customary to greet people with a polite 'bonjour' (good morning/afternoon) or 'bonsoir' (good evening). It's considered respectful to use these greetings when entering a shop, restaurant, or any public place.
Quebec City has a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to show respect for local traditions and customs. This includes being mindful of religious customs, festivals, and celebrations that are significant to the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Quebec City with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Quebec City
Ensure a smooth experience
In Quebec City, it is common to tip 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for taxi services. Tipping for other services, such as haircuts and hotel staff, is also appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Quebec City, but it's always a good idea to have some Canadian dollars on hand for smaller establishments or street vendors. Contactless payments and mobile payment options are also becoming more popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Quebec City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Quebec City with milder temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect some rain but also smaller crowds.
Peak tourist season with warm weather, lively festivals, and long days. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Beautiful foliage colors, cooler temperatures, and fewer tourists. Expect some rain and the possibility of early snow.
Winter wonderland with snow-covered streets, festive events, and outdoor activities. Expect very cold temperatures and snow.
Quebec City at Night
Hiking in Quebec City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to the stunning Montmorency Falls, this park offers various hiking trails with scenic views of the falls and surrounding nature.
A picturesque island located just outside Quebec City with several hiking trails that allow you to explore its vineyards, farms, and beautiful landscapes.
Located about 30 minutes from Quebec City, this national park offers numerous hiking trails through a beautiful valley with rivers and vast forests.
A popular hiking destination offering breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the mountains, with trails for varying skill levels.
This area features scenic trails that wind through maple forests, providing a beautiful natural setting for hiking and nature observation.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Quebec City through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Quebec City by plane.
The main airport serving Quebec City, located approximately 11 km west of downtown.
Located about 250 km southwest of Quebec City, it is the largest international airport in Quebec.
A convenient option for domestic and international flights, situated just outside Quebec City.
Approximately 450 km from Quebec City, serving the capital region with various international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Quebec City residents are French speakers, reflecting the province's historical and cultural ties to France.
A smaller demographic that primarily consists of Anglophones, often with roots in British heritage.
A diverse group that includes individuals from various cultural backgrounds, contributing to the city's multicultural landscape.
Includes First Nations and Métis communities, with historical connections to the region.
A significant portion of the population, reflecting aging demographics and the presence of retirement communities.
Includes children and adolescents, influenced by local educational institutions and family dynamics.
Groups that may identify with various ethnicities, religions, or cultural practices, contributing to the city's ethnic diversity.
The Soul of Quebec City
Discover the essence of Quebec City through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Quebec City, with a strong fan base and local teams like the Quebec Remparts.
Football, particularly Canadian football, has a significant following in Quebec City, with local teams and a passionate community of fans.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Quebec City, with youth leagues and local clubs contributing to its development.
Basketball is increasingly popular, with numerous recreational leagues and community involvement in schools and colleges.
Quebec City has many cycling paths and promotes cycling both as a sport and as a mode of transportation.
During the winter months, cross-country skiing is a popular activity in the surrounding areas of Quebec City.
Running events and marathons are common in Quebec City, attracting both local participants and tourists.
Lacrosse has historical roots in Quebec and continues to be played at various levels within the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Quebec City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Quebec City offers a range of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes, including options at Le Clocher Penché and Kraken Cru.
Many eateries in Quebec City accommodate gluten-free diets, such as Lapin Sauté and Café Krieghoff.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Quebec City with these cultural adventures.
