Quebec City-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore Old Quebec

  • Morning: Start your day at the iconic Chateau Frontenac, a Fairmont hotel with stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River. Even if you’re not staying here, grab a coffee or breakfast at their outdoor cafe.
  • 9:00 AM: Walk through the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in North America.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the Place Royale, a historic square with shops, cafes, and street performers. Don’t miss the stunning view from the top of the City Hall (Hôtel de Ville).
  • Lunch: Try some Quebecois cuisine at La Maison Smith, a cozy restaurant serving traditional dishes like poutine and tourtière.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Musée de la Civilisation, a museum showcasing the history and culture of Quebec. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits and temporary exhibitions.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Auberge Saint-Antoine, a charming restaurant with a focus on local ingredients. Try their famous duck confit.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Le Germain Quebec: A boutique hotel with stylish rooms and a great location in the heart of Old Quebec.
  • Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac: An iconic hotel with luxurious rooms and stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River.

Things to Know

  • Language: French is the primary language spoken in Quebec City, but many residents also speak English.
  • Currency: The Canadian dollar (CAD) is the local currency.
  • Weather: Quebec City has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for variable weather conditions.

Transportation

  • Walking: Old Quebec is easily explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time to appreciate the historic architecture.
  • Public Transportation: Use the Quebec City bus system (RTC) or take a taxi to get around the city.
  • Parking: Parking can be challenging in Old Quebec, so consider using public parking garages.

Tips

  • Respect local culture: Be mindful of Quebec’s unique cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine: Sample traditional dishes like poutine, tourtière, and sugar pie (tarte au sucre).
  • Explore beyond Old Quebec: Visit the nearby Montmorency Falls, explore the trendy Saint-Roch neighborhood, or take a day trip to nearby Quebec City’s suburbs.

Day 2: Explore Beyond Old Quebec

  • Morning: Visit the Montmorency Falls, a breathtaking waterfall just outside Quebec City. Take the cable car to the top of the falls for stunning views.
  • 11:00 AM: Head to the trendy Saint-Roch neighborhood, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and street art. Don’t miss the iconic Place George-V.
  • Lunch: Try some modern Quebecois cuisine at Toqué!, a restaurant with a focus on local ingredients and innovative dishes.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec (MNBAQ), a museum showcasing Canadian and international art. Don’t miss the impressive collection of Inuit art.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Saint-Amour, a cozy restaurant with a focus on local ingredients and traditional Quebecois cuisine.

Day 3: Outdoor Activities

  • Morning: Visit the Parc de la Rivière-aux-Tanuki, a beautiful park with walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River.
  • 11:00 AM: Take a canoing trip on the Saint Lawrence River, exploring the scenic shoreline and spotting local wildlife.
  • Lunch: Try some outdoor dining at Le Bistro des Artisans, a cozy restaurant with a focus on local ingredients and traditional Quebecois cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Jardin Botanique de Québec (Québec City Botanical Garden), a beautiful garden featuring over 22 hectares of gardens, greenhouses, and walking trails.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Le Germain Quebec: A boutique hotel with stylish rooms and a great location in the heart of Old Quebec.
  • Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac: An iconic hotel with luxurious rooms and stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River.

Things to Know

  • Weather: Be prepared for variable weather conditions, including rain and cooler temperatures.
  • Language: French is the primary language spoken in Quebec City, but many residents also speak English.
  • Currency: The Canadian dollar (CAD) is the local currency.