Quebec City 6 Day Itinerary

Quebec City Itinerary (6 days)

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Quebec City. Check into your accommodation and start with a visit to the nearby Dufferin-Montcalm Street, a pedestrian area lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
  • Afternoon: Explore the surrounding Old Town (Vieux-Québec), starting at the city gate (Porte Saint-Louis). Wander through narrow streets lined with 17th and 18th-century buildings that now house art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Visit the Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Quebec.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the old town, serving everything from traditional French Canadian cuisine to modern twists on local specialties.

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Start with a visit to the Musée de la Civilisation. This museum is more than just an exhibit; it’s also a collection of art and artifacts that showcase the history and culture of Quebec.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Parliament Hill (Parlement du Québec) to learn about the history of Quebec and its political system.
  • Evening: Watch a street performer or musician in Place Royale, which often features live music. Then dine at a restaurant serving contemporary Canadian cuisine.

Day 3: Natural Beauty

  • Morning: Take a bus to Montmorency Falls (Chute-Montmorency), one of the most beautiful and highest waterfalls in Quebec. The area offers a variety of activities like hiking, biking, or simply enjoying nature.
  • Afternoon: Consider a visit to the nearby Île d’Orléans for its natural beauty and to taste local specialties such as cheese and cider.
  • Evening: Return to Quebec City for dinner at a bistro serving traditional French Canadian food.

Day 4: Adventure

  • Morning: Visit the Aquarium du Québec, which features more than 10,000 animals from around the world. It’s an ideal place to visit with children or when you’re looking for something different.
  • Afternoon: For those interested in adventure and nature, take a cable car (Teleférique) ride up to Mont Calvane on the outskirts of Quebec City for panoramic views of the city and St. Lawrence River.
  • Evening: Experience Quebec City’s nightlife by walking along Rue Saint-Jean, known for its bars and nightclubs.

Day 5: History and Architecture

  • Morning: Visit the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec to see an extensive collection of art from Canada and around the world.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic district of Petit Champlain (Quartier Petit Champlain) in Lower Quebec, known for its cobblestone streets, boutiques, and restaurants. This is a perfect place to find souvenirs or just enjoy the atmosphere.
  • Evening: Dine at a restaurant specializing in haute cuisine, offering fine dining experiences.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Visit the Marché du Vieux-Port if you haven’t already, for its market with local food, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s an excellent place to find gifts or last-minute shopping.
  • Afternoon: Return your rental car (if applicable) or make any necessary arrangements before departing Quebec City.

Transportation

Quebec City is easily accessible by car from major Canadian cities via highways. There are also buses and trains connecting the city with Montreal, Toronto, and other parts of Canada. If you prefer not to drive, there are public transportation options including bus services and a funicular that connects different levels of the city.

Tips for Visitors

  • Language: French is the primary language spoken in Quebec City. While many residents speak English, it’s helpful to know basic French phrases.
  • Weather: The best time to visit Quebec City is during spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October), with mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
  • Safety: As with any major tourist destination, be aware of your belongings in crowded areas and follow local advice on safety.

Accommodation

Quebec City offers a wide range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Consider staying within the old town for an authentic experience or in one of the many modern hotels near the waterfront. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Le Priori: A boutique hotel located in the heart of Quebec City’s historic district.
  • Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: A luxurious hotel offering stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.

Dining

Quebec City is renowned for its culinary scene, blending traditional French Canadian cuisine with modern flavors. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Poutine: A classic Quebec dish consisting of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
  • Smoked Meat Sandwiches: Thinly sliced smoked meat served on rye bread with mustard.

Shopping

Quebec City is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from unique boutiques to high-end department stores. Some popular shopping areas include:

  • Rue Saint-Jean: Known for its shops and cafes.
  • Petit Champlain Street: Offers a charming shopping experience.

Activities

In addition to the activities mentioned in this itinerary, consider visiting the Museum of the Battle of Quebec (Musée de la Batlle de Québec) for an understanding of the city’s military history or exploring the nearby countryside on a bike tour. The area also offers many opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking and fishing.