Things To Do
in Rimouski
Rimouski is a coastal city perched along the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River in Quebec, offering a gateway to Bas-Saint-Laurent’s maritime scenery. It blends a university-town vibe with a historic waterfront, museums, and easy access to nature. The city serves up fresh seafood, cultural events, and scenic viewpoints from the riverbank to nearby Bic National Park.
Across seasons, Rimouski invites exploration by foot, bike, or boat, all set against a backdrop of rugged coastline and friendly locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a gentle hike along the park’s shoreline trails, where you can spot seals basking on the cold rocks and seabirds diving for fish. The crisp morning air and the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs set an invigorating tone. Bring binoculars to catch rare sightings of eider ducks and white–winged scoters.
Settle down for a seaside picnic by the tidal flats, sampling local cheeses and freshly baked baguettes from Rimouski’s bakeries. Wade into the shallow pools to observe starfish, hermit crabs and other intertidal life. Later, explore hidden coves and fossil beds that reveal marine life from thousands of years ago.
Watch the sun dip below the St. Lawrence, painting the sky in pinks and purples as you sip a warming herbal tea. Gather around a small campfire on the beach to toast marshmallows and share stories under the stars. If the night is clear, lie back and stargaze, listening to the lapping waves as a perfect lullaby.
Stroll along Rue Saint-Germain with a freshly brewed café latte, admiring turn-of-the-century architecture and colorful murals. Pop into local boutiques and antique shops to discover unique maritime souvenirs. Enjoy the buzz of locals setting up shop and greeting neighbors as the city wakes.
Explore the historic Quai de Rimouski, where fishing boats unload their daily catch in a flurry of activity. Stop at a waterfront bistro for a lobster roll or a bowl of hearty clam chowder made with Atlantic seafood. Then wander through Place de l’Évêché park, uncovering plaques and statues that tell Rimouski’s storied past.
Dine at a cozy gastropub in the city center, sampling regional craft beers paired with poutine aux fruits de mer. Afterward, take a twilight walk along the illuminated esplanade overlooking the river. Catch a live folk music performance at a local bar to end the night on a high note.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨1-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $90-130 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a basic week | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to Bic National Park and scenic riverfront views
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, small-city vibe
- Fresh seafood and strong Quebec culture
- Walkable downtown with museums and galleries
- Smaller nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Winter travel can be icy and challenging for some visitors
- Limited rail connections; car travel is often easier
- Seasonal tourism means some services are sporadic outside peak months
Places to Visit in Rimouski
Visit one of these nice places.
Long riverfront with boats, light reflections on calm mornings, and sunset silhouettes over the Saint Lawrence.
Elevated vantage point offering sweeping views of the city and river, ideal for panoramic shots at golden hour.
Dramatic coastal cliffs, sea stacks, and lighthouse views—perfect for horizon and wildlife photography.
Food in Rimouski
Rimouski Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Succulent lobster served with drawn butter and a light accompaniment of seasonal vegetables; commonly found at coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Fresh salmon prepared simply—grilled or poached—with a touch of herbs and seasonal sides.
Québécois cottage pie with layered ground beef, corn, and a generous topping of mashed potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh seafood, produce, cheeses, and baked goods—great for sampling local flavors.
Seasonal seafood stalls along the waterfront where you can grab grilled catches and quick bites by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is the primary language; greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and be polite. A little French goes a long way in shops and eateries.
Reserve and courteous behavior are valued. Quiet conversations and punctuality are appreciated, especially in formal settings.
Respect personal space; avoid loud conversations in enclosed spaces and show appreciation with a simple 'thank you' (merci).
Safety
Tipping in Rimouski
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 15–20% before tax is customary if service is not included. You can round up for smaller establishments. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in casual places.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful for markets and small shops. ATMs are common in downtown areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and active waterfront life. Outdoor events and festivals are common; bring sun protection and light layers for cooler evenings by the water.
Crisp air and vibrant autumn colors along the river and in surrounding forests. It’s a great time for hiking and photography with fewer crowds.
Cold, snowy landscapes with opportunities for winter activities but careful with icy paths and road conditions. Dress in layers and consider indoor cultural venues for warmth.
Mild days with budding greenery and migratory birds. A shoulder season with cooler weather and occasional rain—pack a rain jacket.
Rimouski at Night
Hiking in Rimouski
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hiking along sea cliffs with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy ocean views.
Gentle to moderate loops along the river and through nearby woodlands, suitable for a scenic day hike.
Airports
How to reach Rimouski by plane.
A regional airport about 20–30 minutes from Rimouski, with connections to Montréal and other cities; convenient for quick visits.
A larger international airport about a 4–5 hour drive from Rimouski, offering many domestic and international flights.
Major international hub accessible by a longer drive and often used for connections from Rimouski.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly French-speaking residents with strong Québécois cultural influences.
Smaller English-speaking community within the region; bilingualism is common in service sectors.
The broader Bas-Saint-Laurent region includes Indigenous histories and communities connected to the St. Lawrence area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple winter sport across Quebec, with local leagues and recreational play.
Popular along the Saint Lawrence with scenic water routes suited for all levels.
Widely enjoyed in winter thanks to nearby trails and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rimouski.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rimouski accommodates vegetarian diets with ample produce-based options at markets and many restaurants; look for vegetable mains, salads, and dairy-free choices. If in doubt, ask for the chef’s daily veggie special or a simple pasta with seasonal vegetables.