Plan Your Quebec City Holiday: Best of Quebec City
Explore Quebec City
Essential Quebec City
Things to do
Food & drink
How to do Quebec City in 3 days
Immerse yourself in Québecois Culture in Québec City
- Auberge Saint-Antoine3,080Located in Québec City’s Old Port, Auberge Saint-Antoine, was once a former military warehouse that has been transformed into a hotel overlooking the St. Lawrence River. The foundation from colonial times is still visible through a glass window on the hotel's lobby-level. While this area was once a bustling commercial and military port, guests are now just steps away from the city’s most sought-after restaurants, shops and sites.
- Fairmont Le Château Frontenac8,074The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac opened in 1893 as one of the Canadian Pacific Railway hotels that spanned across Canada. This castle-like structure is one of the most recognisable landmarks of the city’s skyline. Choose between rooms with an aerial view of the St. Lawrence River or a city view overlooking the historic quarter of Old Québec City. There are also five restaurants and bars for visitors who just want a peek inside the historic hotel.
- Le Monastere des Augustines119Le Monastere des Augustines transformed Québec City’s first hospital, Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, into a place where guests can dine at their health-centric raw food cafeteria, learn about the monastery at the on-site museum that has over 1,000 artifacts on display or stay on-property in a modern room or a traditional monastic cell. Visitors staying elsewhere in the city are welcome to pop by for a meal and wander through the exhibitions.
- Musée de l'Amérique Francophone119The Musée de l’Amérique Francophone in Old Québec tells the story of French culture in North America through interactive and informative displays in the oldest museum in Canada. It is fitting that the museum is located in a seminary since Québec's history has long been intertwined with the Catholic Church.
- Notre Dame De Québec Basilica Cathedral2,647The Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral is not only a focal point in the older city, but it is historically significant because it was the first Catholic parish built north of the Spanish colonies in North America in 1647. However, since its initial construction, it has been destroyed by fire twice and rebuilt. It is now the final resting place of four governors of New France and a unique spot to admire Québecois art and architecture.
- Buffet de l'Antiquaire1,182Buffet de l’Antiquaire serves Québecois comfort food from breakfast to dinner in this quaint neighbourhood restaurant with only 50 seats. Their traditional family recipes hail from Québec's lower St. Lawrence region, known for being hearty and comforting to keep you warm on those cold winter nights. Uniquely Québecois dishes are indicated on the menu with a blue symbol to make it easier for guests to pick out the house specialties and family recipes.
- Aux Anciens Canadiens3,714Aux Anciens Canadiens is not only located in the oldest house in Québec City, built in 1675, but its menu has classic Québecois dishes passed down through the generations. Open for lunch and dinner, the three-course tasting menu has a selection of dishes made with traditional and local ingredients, such as bison bourguignon and caribou from northern Québec.
- La Buche2,231For a more contemporary take on classic Québecois dishes, La Bûche has revitalised the classic sugar shack-style restaurant. Located near La Citadelle de Québec, this restaurant takes a modern spin on tourtière, pea soup, and poutine, or you can order the tasting menu to try it all. For dessert, you won't want to leave without trying the pouding chômeur covered in local maple syrup with the option to top it off with bacon crisps.
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Quebec City travel advice
Short Stay Recommendations
For travelers with only 5-6 hours in Quebec City, it is advisable to explore the Old City due to its proximity and density of attractions. This area can be comfortably navigated within a limited timeframe, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture.
Extended Visit Plans
For a longer stay, such as a weekend, visitors have planned activities like walking tours of Old Quebec, visits to local bars and restaurants, and excursions to Montmorency Falls. Historical sites like the Citadelle and the Parliament are also popular. Some travelers recommend visiting the Musée de la Civilisation for its interactive exhibits.
Day Trip Suggestions
For those looking to enrich their visit with day trips, suggestions include exploring nearby parks or planning activities like whale watching tours that depart from the city. The Rue de Petit Champlain and the Fontaine de Tourny are also recommended for those interested in shopping and sightseeing within the city.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Hotel Recommendations
According to forum posts, the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac is highly recommended for its prime location and historic significance in Old Quebec. Additionally, the Hilton near the parliament buildings is suggested for its proximity to Old Quebec and additional amenities.
Alternative Accommodations
Travelers have suggested considering the Auberge Place d'Armes for its ideal location across from Chateau Frontenac and easy access to the Lower Town via the funicular. Hotel Champlain is also mentioned for its central location, making it convenient to explore by foot. For those in need of a budget option, the Ste. Ursule Street youth hostel offers basic, clean rooms in a fabulous location.
Specific User Recommendations
Some users recommend the Hôtel Manoir Victoria for its good location in the Upper Town area, close to key attractions and the funiculaire that connects to Lower Town. Another suggested option for a high-quality stay is the Germain Hotel, which offers onsite parking and is praised for its accessibility and views.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Winter Festivals
According to forum posts, the Quebec Winter Carnival is a popular winter activity. It features outdoor celebrations such as parades, live music, ice sculptures, and giant ice slides.
Outdoor Sports
Some travelers have mentioned engaging in cross-country skiing and dog-sledding as enjoyable winter activities. The availability of toboggan slides and the option to engage in fat biking during the early winter months are also highlighted by users.
Winter Markets and Decorations
Travelers have called out the German Christmas Market as a must-visit, opening annually on November 24th. The market and the city's festive decorations contribute to a vibrant winter atmosphere.
Skating
For many users, outdoor skating, particularly at Place d'Youville, is a recommended winter activity. The rink typically opens in November, offering a picturesque skating experience in the heart of Quebec City.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Public Transportation
According to forum posts, Quebec City airport offers a public transportation option where travelers might need to take two buses depending on the time of day, as per information available on the airport's official website. This option is cheaper but may not be convenient with luggage due to transfers.
Taxi Service
Some travelers have noted that taxis are available with a flat rate fare for trips from the airport to downtown Quebec City. During the day, the rate is $41.40, and at night, from 11 pm to 5 am, the rate increases to $47.60. It is advised to confirm the flat rate with the driver before departure.
Alternative Transportation
Forum users have mentioned that while Uber is an option, there might be issues with availability directly from the airport. Some users have experienced difficulties with Uber not being able to pick up from the airport location.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Primary Locations
According to forum posts, the main locations for whale watching near Quebec City are Tadoussac and Baie Ste Catherine. These areas are approximately 3 to 4 hours' drive north of Quebec City.
Transportation and Tour Operators
Some travelers mentioned that it's beneficial to contact operators like Croisières AML for zodiac tours, as these boats actively move towards whale locations. It's also suggested to check if there are any bus tours available from Quebec City that might go to these whale-watching spots, although availability can vary.
Seasonal Considerations
For many users, the timing of the visit is crucial, as whale-watching tours tend to be seasonal, with some operators ceasing tours after early October. Checking with tour operators directly for the scheduling and availability of the tours during your intended travel period is advisable.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Traditional Quebecois Cuisine Locations
According to forum posts, Aux Anciens Canadiens is recommended for traditional Quebecois cuisine, located in a historic building from 1675 with staff dressed in period costumes. This restaurant is praised for providing a moderate price point and an authentic dining experience.
Other Recommended Spots
Travelers have also suggested Chez Boulay Bistro Boréal for a taste of Quebecois culinary traditions. For a unique tasting menu experience that includes local flavors, La Tanière is highly recommended, although it is noted to be an expensive option.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Hotel Recommendations
Some travelers recommend the Germain hotel, which is about 500 meters from the cruise terminal and is praised for its proximity and comfort. Additionally, the Auberge Saint Antoine is suggested for its character and comfortable amenities, also located near the cruise terminal.
Budget-Friendly Options
For budget-conscious travelers, the Hotel Terrase Dufferin is mentioned as a more affordable option near the cruise port, with river view apartments available for around $160 CAD per night. It offers a community kitchen and a garden, and is praised for its great location and views.
Hostel Option
For even more economical accommodation, a hostel near the port is recommended by some users. The HI hostel on rue Ste-Ursule offers private rooms with shared bathrooms for about 144 CAD, and has been noted for good reviews and reasonable prices.
General Location Benefits
The cruise port area is well-regarded for its central location, allowing easy access to various attractions in Quebec City. This convenience is highlighted across multiple accommodation recommendations, enhancing the appeal of staying near the cruise terminal.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Parking Options
According to forum posts, several parking options are available in Old Quebec City. Travelers have called out an underground parking lot at City Hall as a preferred spot due to its proximity to attractions in the Haute Ville and its reasonable pricing. Another recommended option is the parking lot across from the Musée de la civilisation, which is an indoor structure, clean, and accepts credit card payments.
Accessibility and Additional Details
For many users, the parking in Lower Town is favored because it offers access via a funicular to Upper Town. This feature is particularly useful for those looking to explore both parts of the city without much walking. Parkopedia is frequently mentioned as a useful resource to find and possibly reserve parking spaces in advance, providing details such as pricing and locations.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?