Welcome to Québec City, Canada where you will find a delightful mashup of French and Canadian culture. The cobblestone streets and charming cafes may have you forgetting that you’re in North America, but there is also a distinct Canadian flair that you won’t find on the European continent. I had the good fortune of visiting during the Christmas season where the entire city is really a fairytale come to life, but you will find that Québec’s charm and whimsy is a year-round event.
Keep reading for the Québec City highlight reel for what to see, where to eat, and where to stay.
WHAT TO DO
Quartier du Petit Champlain – Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, the lower town (Basse-Ville) is the city’s original settlement along the St. Lawrence River. If you hate going up steps like I do, brave the Breakneck Steps (L’Escalier Casse-Cou) on the way down, and take the electric funicular cableway (Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec) on the way back up for a fun view of the lower town and the river. The lower town is a must-see any time of the year with its charming eateries and shops, but it is particularly enchanting when it’s lit up for Christmas. Be sure to stop by Place Royale for a step back in time with its stone church dating back to 1688, the picturesque Notre Dame des Victoires. It does get busy on this famous streets so be sure to prepare for the crowds.
Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier (103 Chemin du Parc-National, Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury) – Check out the Jacque Cartier National Park if you have access to transportation. It’s located about an hour from Québec City, but is so worth the drive for the postcard-worthy views of the great wilderness, perfect for hiking, kayaking, fishing, or animal watching.
Parc de la Chute-Montmorency (5300 Blvd. Sainte-Anne, Beauport) – A cable car, a walking path, a suspension bridge, and a winding set of stairs all give access to breathtaking views at Montmorency Falls. Located only 15 minutes from Québec City, you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of a winter wonderland. Be sure to check the website ahead of time as some areas are closed seasonally. Stop by Montmorency Manor to learn more about the history of the area.
La Citadelle de Québec (1 Côte de la Citadelle, Québec City) – History buffs may enjoy a guided tour of the Citadel, a fully operational military base. A ticket will get you admission to the small museum and a guided tour of the grounds. The best part for me personally was the view of Québec down below. Note that the daily Change of the Guard takes place during the summer season only.
Le Marché de Noël allemand de Québec (Place et Jardins de L'hôtel de Ville de Québec) – If you find yourself in Québec City during the Christmas season, the German Christmas market is not to be missed. It takes place right in the middle of the Upper Town (Haute-Ville) in front of City Hall (Place de l'Hôtel de Ville), runs for a full month leading up to Christmas, and is free to visit. Grab a bite at the BMW Alpine Chalet, indulge in mulled wine and brandy at the WinterBar, shop from the local vendors, and of course, pay a visit to Père Noël.
l'Île-d'Orléans – A beautiful farming island just a short drive outside of Québec City. Check out Cassis Monna & Filles (1225 Chemin Royal, Saint-Pierre-de-l'Île-d'Orléans) for a currant farm, restaurant, and winery or La Boulange (4624 Chemin Royal Saint-Jean-de-l'Île-d'Orléans) for a quick bite and pastries. Note that the island is a functioning farming community so it does become pretty quiet and deserted in the winter months.
WHERE TO EAT
Sapristi (24 Boulevard Champlain, Québec City) – Italian comfort foods served in a warm, comfortable environment. It is centrally located right off of Rue du Petit-Champlain and offers outdoor seating in the warmer months. Request a seat by the windows to people watch while you grab a drink.
Cochon Dingue (46 Boulevard Champlain, Quebec City) – Another popular eatery located on Rue du Petit-Champlain serving a distinct blend of Quebecois and French cuisine. Try to make a reservation before stopping by since they get pretty packed – especially for brunch.
Le Clocher Penché (203 Rue Saint-Joseph E, Saint-Roch) – A relaxed yet chic eatery in the St. Roch neighborhood that is beloved by locals. Bright, fresh ingredients ensure that the entire menu is a safe-bet with gourmet choices for vegetarians as well.
Chic Shack (15 Rue du Fort, Québec City) – A casual restaurant with a cheeky name. While burgers are their main menu item, their poutine choices and (boozy!) milkshakes are really the stars here. It’s located directly across from the iconic Château Frontenac so be prepared for a packed house filled with locals and tourists alike.
La Maison Smith (23 Rue Notre-Dame, Québec City) – The perfect spot to stop for a cup of coffee in the Quartier du Petit Champlain. There are multiple locations of La Maison Smith, but this particular one is located right in the Place Royale and is ideal for people watching all year long.
Le Croquembouche (225 Rue Saint-Joseph Est, Québec City) – Pastries and chocolates galore! You really can’t go wrong with any of their croissants or brioches.
Paillard (1097 Rue Saint-John, Québec City) – An unfussy stop for a quick bite before a full day of exploring. You’ll find a solid menu including sandwiches, soups, pastries, and quiche, all of which are fan favorites. Bonus points for the live accordion player.
WHERE TO STAY
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (1 Rue des Carrières, Quebec City) – No trip to Québec is complete without a visit to the Château Frontenac, known as the most photographed hotel in the entire world. Centrally located by the Quartier du Petit Champlain and the Funiculaire, it is the star of the Quebecois city skyline. We booked a suite overlooking the St. Lawrence River, and while the views were great, a trip to visit the hotel grounds is worth it in itself if you can’t fit the pricey rooms into your budget. The Terrasse Dufferin boardwalk extends along the front of the hotel and is perfect for taking in the panoramic views.
Hôtel du Vieux-Québec (1190 Rue Saint-Jean, Quebec City) – Staying at this charming little hotel was one of the highlights of our trip. It’s centrally located in the upper part of the city (Haute-Ville) and is close to the City Hall plaza (Place de l'Hôtel de Ville) and Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral. In addition to their reasonable rates, they offer an inviting lounge with board games and DVD rentals and will even make complimentary popcorn for you to enjoy in your room after a day of sightseeing.
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