Quebec City

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Quebec City

Welcome to the charming city of Quebec! As one of Canada’s most beautiful and historic cities, Quebec City is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of French Canadian culture. In this guide, we’ll take you through all the essential information you need to know before, during, and after your trip.

Before You Go

When to Visit

Quebec City has a continental climate with cold winters and mild summers. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the city’s many festivals take place. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a winter wonderland experience, December to March might be the perfect time for you.

Getting There

Quebec City has an international airport (YQB) that receives flights from major Canadian cities as well as some international destinations. You can also reach Quebec City by car via Highway 40 and 73, or by bus with companies like Greyhound and FlixBus.

Language

While English is widely spoken in Quebec City, French is the official language. Many signs, menus, and announcements are only in French, so it’s a good idea to learn some basic phrases to help you navigate the city.

Places to Go

Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec)

This historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features cobblestone streets, charming shops, restaurants, and cafes. Must-visit attractions include:

  • Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral: A stunning church with impressive architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.
  • Château Frontenac: A iconic hotel that offers guided tours of its opulent interior and breathtaking views of the city.
  • Place Royale: The site where Quebec City was founded in 1608, now home to street performers, vendors, and a small museum.

Other Neighborhoods

Quebec City has several other charming neighborhoods worth exploring:

  • Saint-Roch: A trendy area with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
  • Montcalm: A historic neighborhood with beautiful homes and gardens.
  • Le Petit Champlain: A picturesque street lined with shops, cafes, and a famous ice cream parlor.

Museums

Quebec City has an impressive collection of museums that showcase its history, art, science, and culture:

  • Musée de la Civilisation: A modern museum that tells the story of Quebec’s people and their relationship with the environment.
  • Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec (MNBAQ): A world-class art museum with an impressive collection of Canadian art.

Activities

Outdoor Activities

Quebec City offers a range of outdoor activities for all seasons:

  • Hiking: Explore the nearby Laurentian Mountains and Parc de la Chute-Montmorency.
  • River cruises: Take a scenic cruise along the Saint Lawrence River.
  • Winter sports: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating at one of the many local parks.

Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in Quebec’s rich culture:

  • Festivals: Quebec City hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Festival d’Été (Summer Festival), Quebec City Summer Festival (QCFF), and Winter Festival.
  • Street performers: Enjoy live music, dance, or comedy performances in Old Quebec.
  • Cooking classes: Learn about traditional Quebecois cuisine with a cooking class.

Where to Eat

Traditional Quebecois Cuisine

Try these classic dishes at one of the many local restaurants:

  • Poutine: A quintessential Canadian dish consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
  • Tourtière: A traditional meat pie served during the winter months.
  • Sugar pie (tarte au sucre): A sweet dessert made with maple syrup.

Some top-rated restaurants to try:

  • Toqué!: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving contemporary French-Canadian cuisine.
  • L’Affaire est Ketchup: A cozy bistro offering a variety of Quebecois specialties.
  • Café-Pastry shop Le Saint-Amour: Enjoy delicious pastries and sandwiches in a charming atmosphere.

Where to Stay

Hotels

Quebec City has an impressive selection of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments:

  • Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: A historic hotel with stunning views of the city.
  • Hôtel 77: A boutique hotel offering stylish rooms and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Auberge Saint-Antoine: A charming bed-and-breakfast with comfortable rooms.

Hostels

For budget-conscious travelers, consider staying at one of Quebec City’s hostels:

  • HI-QC: A popular hostel located in the heart of Old Quebec.
  • Hotel Le Cèdre: A cozy hostel offering private and dormitory-style rooms.

Things to Know

Tips for Visitors

  • Learn some French: While many locals speak English, making an effort to learn basic French phrases will be appreciated by the locals.
  • Respect local customs: Quebec City has a rich history; respect the city’s culture and traditions.
  • Be prepared for crowds: During peak season (summer), Old Quebec can get very crowded.

Useful Phrases

  • Bonjour (hello)
  • Merci (thank you)
  • S’il vous plaît (please)
  • Pouvez-vous m’aider? (can you help me?)

Transportation

Walking

Old Quebec is a pedestrian-friendly city, making walking the best way to explore its charming streets.

Public Transportation

Quebec City has an efficient public transportation system:

  • Réseau de transport en commun (RTC): Buses and buses with bike racks connect various parts of the city.
  • Funiculaire: A historic funicular connects Upper Town to Lower Town.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout the city, but be prepared for higher prices during peak hours or in areas with high demand.

Tips and Tricks

Getting Around Without a Car

  • Bike rentals: Rent a bike to explore the city’s scenic bike paths.
  • Public transportation: Use the RTC bus system or funiculaire to get around.
  • Walking tours: Join a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems.

Shopping and Markets

Explore Quebec City’s charming markets and boutiques:

  • Marché du Vieux-Port: A bustling market offering local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
  • Atelier Merci Chéri: A unique boutique selling handmade jewelry and accessories.

Other Things of Interest

Visit the Local Markets

  • Marché Ste-Famille: A popular outdoor market with a mix of vendors and food stalls.
  • Ferme aux Diables: A charming farm-to-table market offering local produce, meats, and dairy products.

Enjoy the Festivals

  • Quebec City Summer Festival (QCFF): A 10-day festival featuring music, theater, dance, and more.
  • Winter Festival: A magical winter wonderland with ice sculptures, snow slides, and live performances.

We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you prepare for your trip to Quebec City. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery, Quebec City is a destination that will leave you enchanted and eager to return.