When visiting Quebec City you will find yourself immersed in a very European experience despite being firmly on Canadian soil.  At over 400 years of age, Quebec City is one of Canada’s oldest municipalities and has been designated as a Unesco World heritage site.  Situated strategically on the St. Lawrence river the city has long been home to military outposts and originally intended to be the “New France”.  The culture and customs of Quebec City continue to reflect these roots to this day.

What to Expect

French is the primary language used in Quebec City however a majority of people speak English as well.  You may encounter some shopkeepers or others in the service industry that don’t speak English so it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic French words before you arrive.  It’s also considered polite and a sign of respect to attempt to speak some basic French.  Often, after giving it a good try, people will readily switch over to English to help you out.

The vibe in Quebec City is generally relaxed and casual.  The pace is slower than what you might experience in Montreal, for example.  The pace and feel very much reflect the French-first orientation of the Quebecois, which we found to be a very appealing experience.

The climate in Quebec City has four distinct seasons, with summer and winter being the most popular.  Summer temperatures range from highs in the upper 70’s F (mid 20’s C) with lows in the lower 50’s (about 12 C), to winter highs in the 20’s (-4 C) and lows as low as 0 F (-18 C).  Dressing for the weather expected during your visit is important to help you get the most out of your trip.  The summer season can be humid and feel significantly warmer than you might expect.  During the winter it’s imperative to have a good parka or winter coat and to dress in layers.

Things to Do

1. Walk the Cobblestone Streets (Free)

Quebec City’s long history has left many remnants of its past throughout the streets.  The section of town that the locals refer to as Old Quebec is surrounded by old city walls and is the most historic region in the area.  The narrow and winding streets are paved with cobblestones that are reminiscent of older European cities.  Stone buildings line these streets further adding to the old school European ambiance of what was once intended to be the “New France”.

2. Walk Along the Promenade – Free

Also referred to as “La promenade des Gouverneurs” is a lengthy boardwalk in the center of Quebec City that is elevated above amazing views of the St. Lawrence River.  Stretching from the Chateau Frontenac hotel to the Plains of Abraham park, this half-mile-long walkway provides a unique vantage point on some of the city’s most unique features.

If you enjoy the outdoors this is a great, and, by the way, free, way to see some of Quebec City’s most amazing views, while getting some fresh air and exercise.  Important to note that there are about 300 steps along the entire length of the boardwalk, which is natural in such a hilly city.  If you start the trip at the Plains of Abraham park, most of the stairs that you encounter will be downward.  Then you can either walk back or catch a cab to return.

3. Visit Hotel Frontenac – Free

The Fairmont Chateau Frontenac is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Quebec City.  This iconic hotel, which originally opened in 1893 is located in the heart of the Old Quebec district, along the St. Lawrence River.  The building is a nationally designated historic location and was one of the very first grand railway hotels in all of North America.  Many dignitaries and famous people, including Alfred Hitchcock, Celine Dion, Winston Churchill, and several Canadian Prime Ministers have stayed in the hotel.  A visit to the hotel, which is a must while you’re in Quebec City, will be a trip back in time to the opulence and elegance of the early 1900s.  Guided tours of the hotel are also readily available if you’re interested in a deeper look behind the scenes.

4. Visit Montmorency Falls Park

Montmorency Falls provide a specular sight and are located just a short 8 mile or 13 km drive from the heart of Quebec City.  At 273 feet, or 83m in height, they are actually almost 100 feet higher than the famous Niagara Falls.    The falls are at the junction of the Montmorency River, where it empties over a substantial cliff into the St. Lawrence River.

Visitors can climb various stairways to get amazing views of the falls from different perspectives.  There is also a cable car lift called a funitel that you can ride from the base to the top of the falls and back down.  There is also a suspension bridge that traverses directly over the falls providing a unique vantage point to take in the water rushing over the cliff.  There are also zip lines above and across the falls for those that need a dose of adrenaline.

The park offers plenty of parking and a visitors center with the necessary amenities and plenty of information on the history of the area.  There is a modest per person fee for access to the park and a parking fee if you arrive in your own vehicle.  Current fees can be found on the Sepaq Montmorency Park page and directions are also available here.

The views in the winter, with the water rushing over the frozen falls are also breathtaking – just be sure to dress for the weather.  Regardless of how or when you decide to take in the falls the views are spectacular and combined with the roar of the falling water, it is one of the most amazing sites to be seen in the Quebec City area.

5. Ride the Funicular Railway

What the heck is a funicular railway, you’re probably asking yourself?  We had the same question.  It is actually a cable-driven railway system, often used in hilly locations.  The Old Quebec neighborhood is home to one of the earliest funiculars in North America.  It has, of course, been revamped and renovated on several occasions to comply with modern safety standards.  You can ride the railway, which climbs at a 45-degree angle over a 210 feet or 64m distance, helping passengers navigate the hills in the city for a modest $3 Cdn fee per person.   This is a rather unique experience that will also save you some climbing and provide some interesting views of Old Quebec

6. Rent a Bike and Explore

During the spring, summer, and fall touring Quebec City by bike is an awesome way to experience the city’s parks, sights, and locations.   Whether you bring your own bikes or decide to rent from one of the many vendors around the city, travel by bike makes parts of the city much more accessible, and you get the added benefit of some outdoor exercise!  Also, many of the bike rental shops and others offer bike tours of the city, which can be a great way to see and learn.

There are many bike paths in Quebec City that are reserved for cyclists and pedestrians only.  You can stick to these paths or venture onto the city streets as you desire.  You can even find your way to Montmorency Falls via bike.  More information on the available trails, including a downloadable trail map, and bike rentals can be found on the Quebec City webpage.

7. Take in Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre or Notre-Dame de Quebec (Free)

A bit of a drive from the heart of the city (19 miles or 30km) the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre is a spectacular cathedral located along the St. Lawrence River.  The basilica is classified as one of five national shrines in Canada and has been said to have been the site of many miracles curing the sick and disabled.  The original basilica was destroyed by fire in 1922 and was rebuilt during the following years, reopening for worship in 1937.  If you enjoy the history and religious significance of the culture in Quebec City, the drive to Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre is worth the trip.

8. Explore Upper and Lower Old Quebec (Free)

Strolling through the streets of Old Quebec, which are among the oldest in North America, or just wandering your way through other neighborhoods, you will encounter many points of interest or attractions.  There are numerous quaint shops and boutiques for those who like browsing, a number of great restaurants that are tucked away within the narrow streets, and plenty of opportunities for a sweet treat at the many confectionaries.  The Plains of Abraham park is a beautiful green space that is just steps from the heart of the city where you will find Quebecois enjoying the outdoors all year.  You may find your way to the Quebec provincial parliament buildings, located on the top of a hill within the city.  We really enjoyed the experience and the culture of the city’s neighborhoods and are sure that you will as well, however you chose to enjoy your time wandering.

9. Enjoy Poutine and Maple Syrup

Poutine and maple syrup are among the most famous Quebec and French Canadian culinary traditions.  Poutine, which is essentially hot and fresh French fries covered in gravy with cheese curds is considered the ultimate comfort food. There are many modern adaptations of this Quebecois favorite often built with additional toppings of your choice.  If you choose to explore the poutine phenomenon it’s crucial that you eat it fresh and piping hot.  Trust me, it’s not the same otherwise.

Maple syrup, which is harvested and boiled from the sap of maple trees during the spring thaw season each year, seems to find its way into almost every dish in Quebec.  Quebec, in fact, produces about 90% of the maple syrup consumed in Canada.  You will find it in cocktails, in pies and desserts,  on bacon, and drizzled over pretty much anything that could benefit from its unique sweet flavor.  During the winter months, you will often find vendors offering pure frozen maple syrup, poured over a stick on a bed of ice, forming an enjoyable taffy on a stick.

10. Ride a Toboggan in the Old Quebec

If there is one thing that is certain in the winter in Quebec City, it’s that the locals have found novel ways to embrace the winter season.  The old city toboggan slide is a perfect example.  Located in the Old Quebec neighborhood, right behind the Chateau Frontenac hotel, you will find a unique toboggan run that has become a winter tradition in Quebec City.  First opened in 1884, the slide runs throughout the winter snow season from December through March, normally from 11 AM to about 4 PM, and later during the Winter Carnival.  The hill is not large, so the ride is a bit short, but speeds can reach upwards of 70 km per hour!  There is a modest per person fee of $3, with some discounts for multiple rides, etc.  More information can be found on the Dufferin Terrace website.

11. Visit the Ice Hotel

If you’re interested in perhaps one of the most unique winter season experiences to be found anywhere, you should consider a visit to the Hotel de Glace or Ice Hotel.  Open from January until the end of March, this venue is North America’s only hotel constructed entirely of ice.  The venue includes most of the typical amenities found in any hotel, including guest rooms and suites, a large hall, a chapel, and an ice bar for cocktails.  If you want the full Quebec City winter experience you can book a night or two stay in the hotel!  Located about a half-hour drive from the Old Quebec neighborhood (directions here) the Hotel de Glace is definitely a unique experience.

12. Celebrate at the Winter Carnival

Claimed to be the largest of its kind in the world, the Quebec City Winter Carnival it truly a celebration of all things winter in the region.  The celebration can best be described as the ultimate embrace of the cold weather seasons.  The activities available include a combination of winter competitions and family fun.  Ice bars for the adults, maple syrup creations galore, and everything from toboggan rides and horse-drawn sleighs to dogsled races is included in the festivities.   Amazing ice carvings and snow sculptures are everywhere, including international competitions.

Typically held in the first week of February, the Winter Carnival is located right inside Quebec City.  You will need to obtain something called a Carnival Effigy, which is a small pendant required to access the event.  Costs, event information, and other details can be found on the Carnaval de Quebec site.

13. Skating or Skiing – Downhill and Cross-Country

Skating and skiing are among the most popular winter activities in the Quebec City area.  There are many ice skating venues available around the city during the winter months.  Many of the parks and selected locations within the city provide ice pads if you’re interested in “lacing ’em up”.   The Place D’Youville provides an ice pad right in the Old Quebec neighborhood. The Plains of Abraham also provides a skating facility as do many of the other parks.  Some of these are even lighted in the evenings for a more romantic adventure.

Skiing, either cross-country or downhill is also a very popular pastime.  Many of the parks include cross-country ski trails for local enjoyment.  There are several cross-country locations in and around the Quebec City area, most of which also offer equipment rental.    If you’re a downhill skier there are several locations in the area, however, a bit more travel outside of the city is required.   The Stoneham Mountain Resort and the Centre Le Realais are both close to the city center.  Ski season typically runs from December through March.

In Summary…

Quebec City provides visitors with an experience that is unique in North America.  Largely considered to be the most European city on the continent, Quebec City has an old-world charm and vibe like no other.  There is much to see and do in the area, all year round, with a laid-back culture that is perfect for a relaxing getaway.  Outdoor activity enthusiasts will love the wide variety of things to do and explore.  The foodies among us will also find a unique approach to cuisine that will undoubtedly please your pallet.  We loved our trip to Quebec City and we bet that you will too!