Things to do in Quebec City: must-sees and where to stay

In short: Quebec City, a French-speaking city founded in 1608, is explored on foot. Admire the Château Frontenac from Dufferin Terrace, walk Old Quebec and its walls, head down to Petit-Champlain and Place Royale, stroll across the Plains of Abraham, and go and see Montmorency Falls and Île d’Orléans. The streets are steep: good shoes are a must.

The Château Frontenac and Dufferin Terrace

The city’s iconic silhouette, the Château Frontenac towers over the St. Lawrence River. In front of it, Dufferin Terrace, a long boardwalk, offers one of the finest views in Quebec City.

Old Quebec and its walls

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Quebec has kept its walls and gates, a rarity in North America. Lanes, squares and old houses are best discovered on foot.

Petit-Champlain and Place Royale

Below, via the Breakneck Stairs or the funicular, the Petit-Champlain district lines up shops and restaurants. Nearby is Place Royale, the city’s birthplace, with its old façades.

The Plains of Abraham and the Citadel

A former battlefield turned large urban park, the Plains of Abraham are great for walks in summer and cross-country skiing in winter. The Citadel, a star-shaped fortress, can be visited.

Quebec City in winter

Snow, lights and the Quebec Winter Carnival, usually in early February: the city has a special charm in winter. Bring very warm clothes.

Day trips from Quebec City

• Montmorency Falls, higher than Niagara Falls, just outside the city.
• Île d’Orléans, its farms, orchards and villages.
• The Côte-de-Beaupré and the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré.
• Montreal, about 3 hours away by road or train.

Getting around

• On foot in Old Quebec; the funicular links the Upper Town to Petit-Champlain.
• Buses serve the rest of the city.
• From the airport, take a taxi or the bus to the centre.

All our tips for the country: Travel in Canada.

Where to stay in Quebec City?

• Old Quebec (Upper Town). Inside the walls, around the Château Frontenac: cobbled streets and river views. Ideal for: couples, first visit.
• Petit-Champlain and Old Port. The Lower Town, its shopping lanes and the banks of the St Lawrence. Ideal for: couples, charm.
• Saint-Roch. A lively, trendy area a few minutes’ walk from the old town. Ideal for: solo, restaurants.
• Grande Allée and Montcalm. Terraces, restaurants and the Plains of Abraham close by. Ideal for: families, nightlife.

The areas and useful services are on our Quebec City page.