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Quebec City   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things To Do in Quebec City

If you're mesmerized by towering fortresses and lavish castles, you'll be more than satisfied just wandering the ancient cobblestone streets of  Old Québec . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the only walled city north of Mexico. Inside its

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Old Québec (Vieux-Québec) Old Québec (Vieux-Québec) free

Clustered around the city's port on the banks of the St. Lawrence River are the quaint stone buildings and narrow, winding streets of Old Québec. This historic neighborhood (and UNESCO World Heritage Site) houses some of the city's most notable attractions, including the  Citadel , Quartier Petit-Champlain  and  Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral . Just make sure you give yourself plenty of time here: You'll find it difficult to resist popping into one of Old Québec's artisan shops or stopping to warm up with an aromatic cup of coffee at one of the many charming cafes.

Many Québec City visitors cite the neighborhood's atmosphere as the primary draw, with many saying it feels just like being in Europe thanks to its cobblestone streets, stunning architecture and friendly locals.

Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency) Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency)

Sitting about 9 miles northeast of Old Québec along the St. Lawrence River, Montmorency Falls Park attracts nature lovers and sightseers alike with its 272-foot waterfall. In case you can't imagine that, Montmorency Falls is one-and-a-half times taller than Niagara Falls. Although warmer summertime temperatures make a Montmorency visit much more comfortable, some travelers recommend stopping by in the winter to take in the natural beauty without the crowds.

There are a variety of activities at the park, including hiking trails, playgrounds, bike paths and a double zip line. From the top of the cliff, the zip line allows two people to simultaneously cross the cove of the falls (nearly 1,000 feet) to the La Baronne viewpoint. In the winter, snowshoeing and ice climbing are popular activities here. 

Terrasse Dufferin Terrasse Dufferin

Overlooking  Old Québec  from its perch just below the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Terrasse Dufferin offers spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River. Formerly a military fortification, this public boardwalk still houses historic cannons. The atmosphere has changed dramatically since Terrasse Dufferin's original construction in 1838; today – especially if you visit during the summer – you're bound to run into street performers and artists as you stroll along. Previous visitors also recommended spending some time here during the winter, when there's an ice toboggan to ride. 

To learn about the history of Terrasse Dufferin (and the rest of the fortifications of this Québec National Historic Site), consider tagging along on a guided tour. Tours are offered every day from mid-May to the beginning of September for around CA$19 (about $14). Tour times vary depending on the day and the language in which the tour is offered. 

Popular Tours

Quebec City Hop-On Hop-Off

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Place-Royale Place-Royale free

To the unknowing eye, this small section in  Old Québec  may just seem like a pretty place to shop or to grab a cup of coffee. But it is so much more than that: Place-Royale is widely considered to be the birthplace of the French colony and French-North America. During the 17th and 18th centuries, this area of Old Québec acted as the French colony's center of business and industry, supporting a thriving marketplace and housing many wealthy merchants. While exploring this quaint area, you'll come across several notable tributes to its French Colonial past, including a striking bust of Louis XIV (one of France's most famous kings), the Église Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, the oldest stone church in North America, as well as the Fresque des Québécois, which illustrates 400 years of the city's history.

Recent visitors call the area charming and unique and recommend spending time wandering around to take in the sights.

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral free

Although the church itself has been rebuilt several times, the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral has stood on the same spot in the heart of  Old Québec  since 1647, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in North America. The exterior may seem a bit dull (especially compared to the  Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica  just northeast of town), but the bold neo-Baroque interior is breathtaking. Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Catherdal is gilded in shimmering gold leaf, historical religious paintings and treasures that date back to the French-colonial period.

Many recent travelers recommended visiting Notre-Dame during Mass, while others suggest stopping in as you stroll around Old Québec. During the summer months, there are volunteer guides available to answer any questions you may have, but you can also download a guide to your smartphone, according to recent visitors. Many were in awe of the cathedral, comparing its interiors to the ornate churches found throughout Europe.   

The Citadel (La Citadelle) The Citadel (La Citadelle)

Québec City's Citadel ( La Citadelle , in French) is the largest British-built fortress in North America; it took 30 years to construct. This military site has been active since 1850 when it housed British troops and the British artillery. Today, the Citadel is occupied by the only Francophone infantry contingent of the Regular Canadian Armed Forces – the Royal 22e Régiment – who have called this structure home since 1920.

You can learn more about the Canadian Armed Forces at the on-site museum, which contains a notable collection of military artifacts. And if you visit around 10 a.m. between the end of June and the first Monday of September, you can witness the Royal 22e Régiment band.

Battlefields Park (Parc des Champs-de-Bataille) Battlefields Park (Parc des Champs-de-Bataille) free

Anyone with an interest in colonial history should set aside some time to explore Battlefields Park. Sometimes referred to as the Plains of Abraham, this 267-acre strip of land just west of  Old Québec  witnessed the sealing of New France’s fate. The Battle of Québec (the pivotal moment of the French and Indian War when the French were forced to cede New France to Great Britain) took place here. 

Today, Battlefields Park is the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air. While you're sure to see a few historical elements (like the occasional ornamental cannon and defensive towers known as Martello Tower), make sure to pay specific attention to the manicured gardens – don't miss the stunning Joan of Arc Garden – and the riverfront vistas. Recent visitors said this is a great park to lounge and read a book, have a picnic or go for a walk. 

Quartier Petit Champlain Quartier Petit Champlain free

Even shopaholics can't escape this town's devotion to history. Sitting on the southeast edge of  Old Québec , the Quartier Petit Champlain is the oldest shopping district in North America and a great place to pick up souvenirs. Here, boutique shops and cozy cafes spill out of restored houses. And a fun fact: One of the neighborhood's houses belonged to Louis Jolliet, the French Canadian explorer credited with discovering the Mississippi River. To avoid the crowds, recent travelers recommend going either early in the day or in the evening. 

Make sure you save some time to climb the famous Escalier Casse-Cou (Breakneck Steps), or at least ride the funicular to the top to enjoy fantastic views of Old Québec. 

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Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre free

Sitting about 22 miles northeast of central Québec City, this stunning religious site in the small town of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré was first constructed in 1658; the current structure was built in the 1920s following a fire. The basilica honors Saint Anne, the patron saint of Québec. Pilgrims travel across the globe to pay their respects to Saint Anne and to benefit from her miraculous healing powers. Legend has it that one of the basilica's original builders began his work on crutches, and was able to walk without them upon the construction's completion.

Many visitors commemorate this miracle by leaving a crutch at the front door. While the outside of the basilica is a sight to behold, the inside is also breathtaking. The central vault is completely covered in mosaics, while 240 stained-glass windows drench the basilica with color. Recent visitors said this gorgeous church is a must-see landmark, and some recommend taking the time to sit and gaze up at the beautiful ceiling. 

Museum of Civilization (Musée de la Civilisation) Museum of Civilization (Musée de la Civilisation)

Overlooking the port from its seat in  Old Québec  – just a short walk from  Place-Royale  – the Museum of Civilization explores the history of human society in Québec and uses interactive exhibits to draw a connection between the past and the present. The museum’s permanent exhibition, “This is Our Story,” focuses on the Indigenous nations living in Quebec (there are more than 95,000 First Nations and Inuit people in Quebec). While you will find expected art and artifact collections, you'll also come across specialized exhibits devoted to a variety of topics, such as gender identity and local climate issues and solutions. 

Many recent visitors praised the museum's architecture and atmosphere, and noted that the exhibits are informative and suitable for families (especially kids in the 9 to 14 age range), though some remark that the museum is on the smaller side. 

Morrin Centre Morrin Centre

This fascinating historic site in  Old Québec  has worn many hats throughout its history. It was a military prison in the 18th century; a civilian prison from the early to mid-19th century and the city's first English-language college in the late 19th century. The Literary and Historical Society of Québec has also called this site home since the late 1800s. The Morrin Centre has played a crucial role in the development of several historical foundations, including the National Archives of Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. Today, the Morrin Centre acts primarily as an English-language library, granting English speakers access to books in a primarily francophone city. 

But the Morrin Centre offers visitors much more than literary stimulation. Guided, hourlong tours take travelers through the facility's history; you'll be able to explore the old jail cells and the Victorian library, which contains artifacts dating back to the 16th century. Recent visitors said the tour is absolutely worth it, as the guides are informative, engaging and eager to answer questions. Others said this is a great experience for all ages. Between the end of May and the beginning of September, guided tours are offered in English daily at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.  

National Museum of Fine Arts (Musée National des Beaux-Arts) National Museum of Fine Arts (Musée National des Beaux-Arts)

The National Museum of Fine Arts' perch in Battlefields Park  means that you can enjoy views of this beloved green space while you peruse the notable works housed within these galleries. The collection is spread across four separate buildings: the Grand Hall, the Charles-Baillairgé Building, the Gérard-Morisset Building and the Pierre Lassonde Building. The design and historical significance of the first three structures adds to the art-viewing experience. For example, the Charles-Baillairgé Building was the Québec City Prison from 1867 to 1970. You can still tour some of the cells that remain intact; the others have been transformed into galleries. The neoclassical Gérard-Morisset Building is the original museum building, home to many of the museum's works. The Pierre-Lassonde Building is a stunning gallery dedicated to modern-contemporary art.

Although previous visitors agree that the National Museum of Fine Arts can't compare to other art museums like the Louvre in Paris or the Met in New York, most say that Québec City's version is worth checking out. Several reviewers warned future visitors that the museum is undergoing renovations and that three of the buildings are closed, leaving just the contemporary art exhibitions open to the public. The museum expects the work to be complete by late 2025 or early 2026.

Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) at Village Vacances Valcartier Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) at Village Vacances Valcartier

Situated about 20 miles northeast of Old Québec near the Jacques-Cartier River, Village Vacances Valcartier lures families and travelers looking for a fun day trip or short getaway. The resort began as a toboggan run in 1963 and was the first to offer snow tubing in 1971. Water slides and pools were added in the 1980s, and today, Village Vacances Valcartier is a popular all-season resort.

During the summer, this recreational oasis offers a sprawling outdoor waterpark with pools, waterslides and lazy rivers. An enticing destination on hot days, many travelers find the waterpark is overcrowded and not worth the high entrance fee. Avoiding long weekends and visiting at the beginning of the week is best, and bringing snacks is recommended as the resort’s restaurants can be lackluster.

Group Excursion of Quebec City and Montmorency Falls

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Quebec City Bus Tours Quebec City Bus Tours

U.S. News Insider Tip: Use the red line hop-on, hop-off bus operated by Unitours to gain an understanding of where everything is located, and to visit places that you may not want to travel to on foot. – Pamela MacNaughtan

From the cobblestone streets of Old Québec and religious and military historic sites to the Plains of Abraham, Montmorency Falls and wineries, bus tours offer compelling overviews of the city. In Québec City, Unitours (formerly Tours Vieux Québec) is the premier bus tour company within the city. The routes begin near Château Frontenac, and the number of stops varies depending on the bus and tour duration. See the European architecture of Old Québec, local neighborhood streets, museums and historic sites. The red line is a double-decker hop-on, hop-off bus tour with 15 stops throughout the city. The prerecorded audio commentary offers a few insights into the city’s history, however, some travelers find it lacking in substance. The yellow line, a one-hour express tour, has guaranteed top-deck seats and the same commentary.

Île d’Orléans Île d’Orléans free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Île d’Orléans is a popular destination and traffic can be intense in summer. For the best experience, go in the morning. Plan for an early lunch to avoid crowds, and be sure to stop at a farmstand to buy fresh strawberries. – Pamela MacNaughtan

Juicy strawberries and rich amber-colored maple syrup are the signatures of Île d’Orléans, an island just 10.5 miles from downtown Québec City. Colonized by the French in the 17th century, the island was home to the Huron Nation who lived, hunted and fished here. The French divided the land using the seigneurial system; long skinny tracts of land. Chemin Royal, the 42-mile road that encircles the island, was completed in 1744 and continues to be the island’s main road today.

Saint-Roch Saint-Roch

U.S. News Insider Tip: Some of the city’s best cafes, restaurants and bars can be found here, including award-winners L'Affaire est ketchup, Battuto, and JJacques. A highlight of the area is Korrigane Brasserie Artisanale, a woman-owned microbrewery. – Pamela MacNaughtan

Tucked away from the bustling streets of Old Québec , which can be bloated with travelers in high season, is the artsy neighborhood of Saint-Roch. Some travelers have compared it to New York’s Brooklyn or Williamsburg, with its grittiness and eclectic atmosphere. This was a commercial artery in the city in the 1960s, and became a blue-collar neighborhood as businesses moved out to other areas of the city. Today, Saint-Roch has transformed into a trendy area popular with young artists and professionals. Modern shimmering condo buildings are surrounded by a mix of heritage residential buildings.

Jacques-Cartier National Park Jacques-Cartier National Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don’t have a car? Quatre Natures provides a daily shuttle service from Old Québec to Jacques-Cartier National Park. It costs CA$39.90 (roughly $29) for a round-trip ride, which includes your park entrance ticket. – Pamela MacNaughtan

A roughly 30-mile drive north of Québec City is the lush mountainous oasis of Jacques-Cartier National Park. Its 67,000 square miles features a deep-cut glacial valley and around 62 miles of hiking trails, with the Jacques-Cartier River flowing through its length. The park takes up the southernmost lands of the Laurentides Wildlife Reserve, making it an excellent place for wildlife watching.

Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville free

In the heart of Upper-Town between Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral and City Hall is Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville. This small public square was home to a marketplace for local farmers until 1875. Its name came about after the completion of City Hall, and this square has been used as a gathering place ever since. Today, Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville also includes the garden and terrace behind City Hall.

Children and adults dance through the programmable fountain as water jets from the ground, while others stretch out on the grass for a mid-afternoon snooze. Chairs and tables adorn both squares, making them a charming place to enjoy a picnic of wine, local beer and Québec terroir. Travelers have remarked they love the peacefulness of Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville and its close proximity to landmarks and restaurants in Old Québec .

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Québec

Written by Chloë Ernst and Lura Seavey Updated Aug 4, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

A vast province that makes up about one-sixth of Canada, Québec covers diverse landscapes – from historic cities to isolated Arctic tundra. The region reaches almost to the Arctic Circle in the north, borders the American states of Vermont and New York in the south, and Hudson Bay in the west. The St. Lawrence River, almost 1,200 kilometers long, runs through the most populated regions of the province.

While most visitors head for the two main cities, Montréal and Québec City, there are many things to do throughout the province in both summer and winter. Historical sites, cultural institutions, festivals, small towns, and beautiful parks and natural areas are just some of the highlights. Find the best places to visit in the province with our list of the top attractions in Québec.

1. Place Royale

2. le château frontenac, 3. musee de la civilisation (museum of civilization), 4. chutes montmorency, 5. old montréal (vieux-montreal), 6. parc jean drapeau, 7. canadian museum of history, 8. notre-dame basilica, 9. la citadel de québec, 10. mont tremblant, 11. montreal botanical gardens (jardin botanique), 12. zoo de granby, 13. gatineau park, 14. hudson bay, 15. forillon national park, 16. basilica of sainte-anne-de-beaupré, 17. iles de la madeleine, 18. bonaventure island (île bonaventure), 19. mount royal park, map of tourist attractions in québec.

Place Royale is the birthplace of Québec City, where Samuel de Champlain established the first habitation in 1608 and where there remains an outstanding collection of 17th- and 18th-century buildings that are a small sampling of Old Québec. The pretty stone church Notre-Dame des Victoires, dating to 1688, faces the square, along with modern tourist attractions like an outpost of the Musée de la Civilisation.

There is plenty of Old Québec City sightseeing within blocks, especially in the delightful Quartier Petit-Champlain , where historic buildings line narrow pedestrian-only streets. Here, you will find plenty of things to see and do, including artisan boutiques, a variety of fantastic restaurants, and a historic-themed trompe-l'oeil mural.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Québec City

Overlooking Québec City, the grandiose Château Frontenac is the most iconic building in the provincial capital, visible from miles away. Canadian Pacific Railway constructed the hotel in 1894, and it still welcomes guests from around the world in one of the most romantic settings you can find.

The hillside vantage was once the location of Fort St.-Louis, but today, the wide boardwalk of Terrasse Dufferin provides scenic views south to Levis and the St. Lawrence River. Both hotel guests and tourists can see the ruins of the fort that lie beneath the Promenade des Gouverneurs , a main road which leads south toward the Plains of Abraham and the Citadel .

Address: 1 Rue des Carrières, Québec City, Québec

Sitting on the banks of the Saint Lawrence River in Quebec City's Vieux Port (Old Port) area, the Museum of Civilization houses an astounding collection of artifacts and exhibits dedicated to human civilization around the world.

Permanent collections also include exhibits focused on regional history, including the history of the first encounters between European and native peoples, the development of the territories, and the people of Québec.

Other permanent exhibits explore important landmark buildings, the history of the sugar beet industry, the history of horse-drawn carriages, and even a "digital laboratory" where visitors can do their own research. Temporary exhibits cover a variety of anthropological topics, from aboriginal societies to explorations of how the modern digital age has affected human civilization.

Many of the exhibits include interactive elements, both for younger visitors and adults, and there are special kids' activities available as well. Guided tours are available.

There is also an outpost of the Museum of Civilization at Place Royale , and tourists can learn more about the history of French-Canadians at the Musée de l'Amérique Francophone ( Museum of French America ), which specializes in looking at the history and present state of French immigrants in the Americas; it is located in the city's Upper Town at the historic Séminaire de Québec .

Address: 85, rue Dalhousie, Quebec City, Québec

Official site: www.mcq.org/en

Just northeast of Québec City, the wide sweeping waterfall of Chutes Montmorency cascades down an 84-meter escarpment. The falls are higher than Niagara Falls , and a narrow pedestrian suspension bridge crosses the Montmorency River to île d'Orléans , enabling you to watch the water rush over the edge right beneath your feet.

There is also a cable car, which travels to the top of the falls and provides great views of the surrounding landscape, and the Montmorency Manor houses an interpretive center and a restaurant. Visitors can also enjoy views of the falls from the numerous trails, stairways, and viewing platforms, and there are several picnic areas. More adventurous visitors can also try out the 300-meter zipline across the falls or go rock climbing on nearby cliffs.

Address: 5300 boulevard Sainte-Anne, Québec

Official site: www.sepaq.com/ct/pcm

Best explored on foot, Old Montréal is a concentration of 17th-, 18th-, and 19th-century buildings at the edge of the city's Old Port . Many of the top Montréal tourist attractions are within this historic section of the city, including the neo-Gothic Notre-Dame Basilica and the pedestrian-friendly square at Place Jacques-Cartier .

The Old Port area is home to many things to do with your family, including the Montréal Science Center and the Natrel Skating Rink . Couples and families alike will love La Grande Roue de Montréal ( Observation Wheel ). This newer addition to the river's edge provides spectacular views over Old Montréal, downtown, and beyond from within enclosed gondolas.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Old Montréal

Île Sainte-Hélène , an artificial island that hosted the World's Fair in 1967, is now home to Parc Jean Drapeau and its numerous family-friendly attractions. The most popular thing to do with kids is a visit to the huge La Ronde Amusement Park , which offers a range of kiddie and thrill rides for all ages, as well as entertainment and games.

Montreal Biodome , the world's largest structure of its kind, is a biosphere highlighting green technology with exhibits about ecology and environmental issues; admission is free for tourists under 18.

History buffs will want to stop by the Stewart Museum , where permanent collections include thousands of pieces of art and artifacts, including household objects, military equipment and weapons, scientific equipment, and rare books. In addition, the museum hosts special exhibits and events throughout the year.

Location: Île Sainte-Hélène, Montréal, Québec

Located in Gatineau, this modern building looks across the river to the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa. The flagship Canadian museum explores human history in Canada, ranging from First Nations cultures in the Pacific Northwest to Norse seafarers. In addition to permanent exhibits, the museum hosts traveling exhibits from partner museums.

Families don't need to worry about the younger ones getting bored - admission to the history museum also includes access to the Canadian Children's Museum , an interactive play-driven place where kids can get hands-on and experience a range of cultures and historic themes. There is also a seven-story IMAX theater at the museum showing a variety of films that look at Canadian history and life in the north.

Address: 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau, Québec

Official site: www.historymuseum.ca

The regal-looking Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Old Montréal and the city's oldest church. Its twin towers and neo-Gothic façade stand above Place d'Armes , and the interior was designed by Victor Bourgeau. The church was founded in 1656, and the impressive present-day structure was built in 1829. Inside, the stained-glass windows and ornate wood carvings are a majestic sight.

Other notable features are a 7,000-pipe organ and a hand-carved pulpit; tours are available with an admission charge. Often, an evening light-and-sound show introduces Montréal history through illuminating projections.

In Québec City , there is also the Cathedrale Notre-Dame-de-Quebec , known for its stained-glass windows, Episcopal canopy, and ornate altar. Completed in 1844, it was designed by the architect Baillairgé.

Address: 110 Rue Notre-Dame Ouest, Montréal, Québec

Official site: www.basiliquenotredame.ca

Sitting atop Cap Diamant and facing the St. Lawrence River, the star-shaped Citadel de Québec has been ready to defend Québec City since 1832. Its imposing presence is punctuated by thick walls and commanding ramparts, which are surrounded by deep ditches. The military museum is open year-round and housed in the fort's former 18 th -century powder magazine, and during the summer months, tourists are treated to a daily morning Changing of the Guard ceremony.

The Citadel is still in use as an active military post and serves as quarters for all ranks, as well as the summer home of Canada's Governor General. It also serves as headquarters to the distinguished 22nd Canadian Regiment.

Address: 1 Côte de la Citadelle,Québec City, Québec

Official site: www.lacitadelle.qc.ca/en

Ski resorts in the Canadian Laurentians are favorite winter destinations, and chief among them is Mont Tremblant - the highest peak in the Laurentians (960 meters), located about 150 kilometers north of Montréal. Good dining, entertainment, and ample accommodations define the resort community, which is housed in a quaint pedestrian village. The region is also a fall destination, when leaves turn autumn shades of orange, red, and gold.

Another popular ski area is Mont Sainte-Anne , located near Québec City. In addition to excellent winter sports conditions, the resort offers plenty of summer activities, including camping, hiking, mountain biking, and golf.

Address: 1000 Chemin des Voyageurs Mont-Tremblant, Mont Tremblant, Québec

The lush and lovely Botanical Gardens cover 75 hectares adjacent to the Olympic stadium in Montréal's Parc Maisonneuve . The facility is home to both outdoor and greenhouse gardens, many of which are centered around a particular culture. Among the 20 outdoor gardens are the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, and First Nations Garden, each of which celebrates the traditions of their respective culture.

The 10 exhibition greenhouses contain a total of around 3,000 specimens, including collections of orchids, bonsai and penjing, cacti, cycads, and many others. The organization also provides talks, workshops, and other educational materials to help visitors with their own gardening endeavors.

Also within the same park, the Insectarium is a family-friendly attraction, which introduces rare and common insects, and there is an excellent planetarium , which immerses visitors in the world of astronomy.

Address: 4101 Rue Sherbrooke Est, Montréal, Québec

Official site: http://espacepourlavie.ca/en/botanical-garden

Despite its location in a northern climate, the Zoo de Granby provides comfortable habitats for animals from a wide variety of ecosystems and climates. It is home to more than 225 different species, a total of around 1,500 animals, representing the fauna of Asia, Africa, Oceania, and South America.

This is one of the few zoos that is home to snow leopards, an endangered big cat that is known as "the ghost of the mountains" for its ability to blend in with a snow-covered landscape. The zoo is also home to several other species of big cat, including the Amur leopard, Amur tiger, jaguar, and African lion.

Among other visitor favorites are Oceania's Eastern grey kangaroos, wallabies, and emus, and large animals like Africa's white rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses, giraffes, and elephants. South American residents include alpacas, llamas, and Caribbean flamingos, and Asian animals include the clever red panda, yak, and Bactrian camel.

The zoo also has several primates in residence, including the Western lowland gorilla and Guereza from Africa and the Japanese macaque from Asia. There are also a selection of aquatic animals, including blacktip reef sharks, cownose rays, green sea turtles, and moon jellyfish.

Zoo programs include special presentations by naturalists and other opportunities to learn more about the animals. The zoo is open year-round, and is located in the Eastern townships, making it an excellent day trip from Montreal.

During the warmer months, visitors can also enjoy the on-site amusement park at no extra charge. Family-friendly rides include bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, carousel, and a roller coaster.

Address: 1050 David-Bouchard Blvd., Granby, Quebec

Official site: www.zoodegranby.com/en

A hilly, largely undeveloped forest and serene lakes make up Gatineau Park, located near the city and river of the same name. Within park boundaries, Mackenzie King Estate is the former home to the eccentric Canadian prime minister William Lyon Mackenzie King and at Lusk Cave, visitors can take tours of this marble cavern.

Belvédère Champlain (Champlain Lookout) is the park's most popular vantage point, providing photo-worthy views over the river valley and tree-covered hills - an especially impressive sight in autumn. A mix of walkers, cyclists, and dog owners enjoy the park trails, and there are also facilities for camping, swimming, fishing, and skiing.

Address: 33 Scott Road, Old Chelsea, Québec

Official site: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/gatineau-park

The far-reaching landscape and waters of Hudson Bay are one of the most remote areas of Canada, covering an area of 637,000 square kilometers. With areas reaching into the Arctic Circle, the harsh terrain is home to rarities of the natural world. Here, you can find over 800 species of Arctic vegetation, including Arctic lupine, polar poppies, and purple saxifrage. Migratory birds, and seals are common, and polar bears sometimes make an appearance.

The bay itself is home to a healthy fish population, and Beluga whales are seen occasionally. The Inuit peoples are the traditional residents of the region, and the small outpost communities have stood the test of time.

Read More: Exploring Hudson Bay: A Visitor's Guide

This wild and rugged national park sits at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, jutting into the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Dramatic scenery abounds, with limestone cliffs and the isolated Cap des Rosiers Lighthouse . This lighthouse is the tallest in Canada and is also home to a good information center, which provides education about the area's wildlife. This area of Gaspésie is popular with bird-watchers, and you can find several whale-watching boat excursions here. Those who are willing to take the path along Cap Bon-Ami are rewarded with stunning views of the cliffs along the cape.

Address: 122 Gaspé Boulevard, Gaspé, Québec

Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/qc/forillon

Half a million pilgrims come to the quiet, riverside town of Ste-Anne de Beaupré each year, the home of the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré. Saint Anne is the patron saint of Québec, and she is credited with many miraculous events. The entryway is covered in discarded crutches, which pay testament to the sick, disabled, and injured people who have reported miracle cures. The existing structure was built in 1926, however the spot has been home to a house of worship dedicated to Saint Anne since the 17 th century.

Also in the area, located just northeast of Québec City, there are river canyons and waterfalls at Chutes Ste-Anne and Sept-Chutes . Here, tourists can explore the nature trails and admire the gorge from suspension bridges.

Address: 10018 Ave Royale, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, Québec

In the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the sand dunes and beaches of the Îles de la Madeleine archipelago are an idyllic and lively spot in summertime. About 90 kilometers of thread-like sand dunes connect six of the twelve islands in the Îles de la Madeleine archipelago. The islands are ideal for water sports, bird-watchers, and anyone who enjoys long walks in the dunes; the best time for a visit is in August.

Île du Havre aux Maisons , with its gentle hills, red cliffs, winding paths, and scattered houses is one of Îles de la Madeleine's most beautiful islands. Traditional homes stand between a heritage school, century-old convent, and Sainte-Madeleine Church . Also on Havre-aux-Maisons, Cap Alright has a small lighthouse and is noted for its impressive offshore rock formations.

Half the people of the archipelago live on Île du Cap aux Meules , and from here, a ferry crosses to Île d'Entrée , the only inhabited island not connected to the others. There is a wonderful view from the Butte du Vent over the surrounding islands, and on a clear day it is possible to see as far as Cape Breton Island , nearly 100 kilometers away. Île du Havre-Aubert is the southernmost island in the archipelago, and its little town has the Musée de la Mer .

This island off the Gaspé Peninsula in the Gulf of St. Lawrence is a renowned bird sanctuary, where about 50,000 gannets flock during the summer. The island features the Gaspésie's rugged, picturesque scenery and sheer rocky cliffs. A nature trail provides a bird-watching route, where tourists will also see other seabirds including Atlantic puffins, terns, razorbills, and multiple varieties of cormorants.

The park also encompasses the much-photographed Rocher Percé (Pierced Rock) among other rocky outcrops and magnificent cliffs, which have been carved by the elements. The island's position along the Percé Coast makes it an excellent destination for photographers and nature-lovers during the summer months.

Official site: http://www.sepaq.com/pq/bon/

Mont Royal is not only Montréal's namesake but also the mountain at its heart. The 233-meter peak allows for a fine vantage over the largest city in Québec, especially from the Kondiaronk Belvedere .

There are many events in the park, from winter ice-skating on Lac-aux-Castors and cross-country skiing to the beat of many drums at Les Tam-Tams , which happens on summer Sundays near the Sir George-Étienne Cartier monument. From the platform on the summit, visitors have a panoramic view over the Île de Montréal and the St. Lawrence River. If the air is particularly clear, you can also see the peaks of the Adirondacks in the U.S.

Official site: www.lemontroyal.qc.ca/en

More on Canada

Visit Quebec: Top 20 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 20 best things to do in quebec (bucket list).

You’re planning to visit Quebec and you’re looking for the best things to do during your trip?

You’re at the right place!

Quebec, the French speaking province of Canada , is renown for its amazing natural landscapes and vibrant cities. No matter if you plan to visit in Winter, Spring, Summer or Autumn , you will for sure find beautiful places to visit and great activities to enjoy in Quebec!

In order to help you plan your trip, I’ve thus put together this guide of the 20 best things to do in Quebec , with all my best tips to make the most of your visits.

So, what are the best things to do in Quebec?

Let’s find out!

1. Montreal

2. quebec city, 3. the carnaval of quebec, or quebec winter carnival, 4. the montmorency falls, 5. whale watching in tadoussac, 6. autumn in quebec province, 7. snow tu1bing and snow rafting, 8. snowmobiling and dog sledding in quebec, 9. discover gaspé peninsula, 10. the saguenay fjord, 11. discover the typical sugar shacks, 12. la mauricie national park, 13. taste the famous poutine, 14. visit the omega park, 15. go skiing with a view of the saint-lawrence river, 16. ice skating in the middle of the forest, 17. canoeing in quebec, 18. the magdalen islands, 19. anticosti island, 20. the weekend brunch, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you, visiting quebec: all best places to visit.

In order to help you plan your stay in Quebec, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

It’s impossible to start this Quebec tourist guide without mentioning its most visited city, Montreal . This lively city offers many great things to do and see!

Here are the best places to visit in Montreal:

• The Mount-Royal plateau, the most famous neighborhood of the city, with many bars, restaurants and shops. You will love its typical colorful houses with outdoor stairs!
• Mount-Royal park : Enjoy a bit of greenery in the heart of Montreal! In this park, you will discover many shaded trails and beautiful viewpoints. Don’t miss the Mount Royal Belvedere: it’s the best place to admire the whole southern part of the city. And, how about a picnic along Beaver Lake? This artificial lake, with its playground for children and bar-restaurant with a terrace, is the perfect place to spend a summer afternoon. It’s also easy to approach the many squirrels, as they’re quite curious. Mount Royal Park is clearly one of the must-see attractions in Quebec province!
• The Old Montreal , the city’s oldest neighborhood. There, you can admire the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, Jacques Cartier Square and the Bonsecours Market.
• The Montreal Botanical Garden and its more than 20 thematic gardens
• Saint-Joseph’s Oratory , famous for its architecture

If you want more information about Montreal, you should check my definitive guide: The 45 best things to do in Montreal.

During your stay in Quebec, you should definitely visit the province’s capital and 2nd largest city, Quebec City . This UNESCO World Heritage site has a more European feel than Montreal. It feels a bit like my home country, France!

Quebec City’s best points of interest are:

• The Château Frontenac, the city’s most iconic landmark
• The Quartier du Petit-Champlain, North America’s oldest Neighborhood, with its Place Royale and pretty pedestrian alleys.
• Taking a stroll along the Terrasse Dufferin and enjoy its incredible view of  the Saint-Lawrence river and the Île d’Orléans.
• The Citadel of Quebec and its fortified walls

You can find a list of all the best places to visit in Quebec City in my article: Visit Quebec City: the 15 best things to do and see.

If you’re visiting Quebec City between late January and mid-February, then you have to attend the Carnaval of Quebec, or Quebec Winter Carnival. It’s definitely one of the province’s major events.

Every year, thousands of people are coming to Quebec City to enjoy the world’s biggest winter carnival.

You will discover a large number of events and contests during these 2 weeks, including the international Snow and Ice sculpture competition, day and night parades, the famous Snow Bath, the icy canoe races, and many other activities such as giant board games, ice skating, sledging,…

Also, don’t forget to take a souvenir photo with the carnival’s mascot, “Bonhomme Carnaval”. This huge white man wearing a red tuque can be seen all over the carnival.

If you want to stay in Quebec City during the carnival , you should book your accommodation as early as possible . People are coming from all over the world for the carnival, and the best places to stay are often booked months in advance.

When visiting Quebec province, you should also see the Montmorency Falls, located 40 minutes away from Quebec City.

These 83-meter high falls are higher than the Niagara falls. The place is really impressive, especially in winter, as the river can be completely frozen.

There are many points of views to observe the falls. You can access them with the cable-car, the panoramic stairs or the suspension bridge. And if you’re looking for a thrilling experience, you should definitely try the 300-meter zip line and the “via ferrata”.

You will find more detailed information, including the rates, on the official website.

The Quebec province is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching, and you should really spend an afternoon trying to get a look at these huge cetaceans.

It’s among the most popular attractions in the region for both locals and tourists. The whale watching season starts in May and end in October.

You can go whale watching almost everywhere in Quebec, but the best place is definitely the North coast, and more specifically Tadoussac, a small village located close to the Saguenay Fjord and the Saint-Lawrence estuary.

There, you will have the choice between 3 different sea trips: a 3-hour cruise in a big boat, a 2-hour small zodiac tour or even a sea kayak excursion if you’re feeling adventurous!

If you’re choosing the Zodiac tour , you will get really close to the whales, and it’s quite impressive. Remember to dress warmly!

Here are the average rates for these 3 different sea trips:

• 3-hour cruise on a big boat (around 100 people on board) : 70$ per person
• 2-hour zodiac tour (between 10 and 30 passengers) : 60$ per person
• 2-hour sea kayak trip: 70$ per person

If you want to go whale watching in Tadoussac, you should opt for this incredible Zodiac boat tour. You can book it in advance clicking the button below:

If you want to enjoy a magnificent and colorful scenery, then you should definitely visit Quebec in autumn.

Starting from late September, the trees are turning orange and red , creating a breathtaking postcard landscape. It’s also the best season to plan beautiful hikes during your itinerary in Quebec.

The best places to admire the stunning autumn colors in Quebec are:

• Mont Tremblant National Park: the marked trail starting from the village and reaching the summit is really nice, and you will get a beautiful view of the lake located below
• Jacques Cartier National Park, featuring more than 100 km of marked trails
• Mont-Sainte-Anne, one of the best places to admire the autumn colors
• The Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area, where you can also observe many Snow Geese.
• The Vallée Bras du Nord

You should travel to Quebec between the 1st and the 15th of October to enjoy the best autumn colors.

Snow Tubing and Rafting are clearly among the funniest things to do in Quebec during winter. You just have to slide down the slopes riding an inner tube, a buoy or a raft.

It’s really awesome!

If you’re looking for steep slopes, tight turns, huge bumps and thrilling speeds up to 100 km/h, you’re at the right place! And thanks to the mechanical lifts, you will slide all day and go up the slopes without any excessive effort.

You can go Snow Tubing in many parks, but I would recommend Saint Jean de Matha, located only 100 km away from Montreal. There, I spent a whole day without waiting much between my slides, as there wasn’t too many people.

It was a wonderful day and we enjoyed a perfect family atmosphere. A full-day ticket costs 28$ (VAT not included).

In Saint Jean de Matha, you can also enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoe hiking or ice skating. And of course, you can eat on the spot as there’s a restaurant. Be aware that the minimal height for snow rafting is 1m25.

And if you want to know everything about Snow Tubing and Snow Rafting in Saint Jean de Matha, you can check the official website.

If you’re visiting Quebec during winter, you should spend a few days in the countryside. And how about a snowmobile or dog sled ride to discover its magnificent preserved landscape?

In Quebec, you will find many Outfitters (or “Pourvoiries” in French) offering dog sled rides. A 1-hour ride costs around 75$ per person. And if you want to go snowmobiling, a half-day (3h30) costs around 120$. You can also go snowmobiling and dog sledding on the same day for 240$.

You must be at least 21 and pay a 2000$ deposit to drive a snowmobile in Quebec.

During your weekend in the Quebec countryside, you can also discover ice fishing . Dig a hole in the ice and try to catch your dinner! A half-day ice fishing costs around 65$ per person, including the equipment.

The best regions to enjoy winter activities in Quebec are Gaspé Peninsula, the Laurentides, La Mauricie, the Eastern Townships and Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean. The snow conditions are often perfect there!

If you’re willing to spend a few days away from the big cities, then you should visit Gaspé Peninsula and its amazing scenery.

The easiest way to discover the peninsula is to rent a car and follow the costal road 132. There are many points of interest in Gaspé, but if you’re only staying a few days there, you should at least visit these 3 must-see places.

1) Make your 1st stop in Percé (literally “Pierced” in French). Right in front of the village, you will discover its famous huge pierced rock, standing in the Saint-Lawrence river and only connected to the mainland at low tide.

From Percé, you can also access the Bonaventure Island, hosting the world’s largest Northern Gannets colony. And how about doing an organized boat trip around the island to admire those magnificent birds?

2) Your 2nd stop will be Forillon National Park, at the Eastern end of Gaspé peninsula.

Hike and explore the region’s magnificent cliffs overlooking the sea and beautiful preserved forests. For example,you should take a stroll on the “Les Graves” trail, offering beautiful views of the ocean and the forest.

The park is a great place to observe an amazing wildlife , as thousands of sea birds and seals colonies are living here. You can also go whale watching, kayaking or fishing.

3) Your last stop should be The Gaspésie National Park. It’s truly an hiker’s paradise, with its more than 20 summits over 1000-meter high. If you’re lucky, you might encounter some moose, as the park hosts the only colony south of the Saint-Lawrence river.

As in Forillon National Park, you can also go canoeing, kayaking or fishing in one of the park’s 7 lakes and 3 rivers.

If you have enough time to spend several days in Gaspésie National Park, and if you’re an hiking lover, you should do the Appalachian Trail, a 100-km long marked trail crossing the park.

You can opt for a 4 days guided tour including the accommodation (mostly in shelters), the meals, and the luggage transfer from one shelter to another.

The Saguenay Fjord is another place you must visit during your holidays in Quebec.

With its more than 400-meter high cliffs , this fjord offers beautiful viewpoints over the glacier valley and the Saguenay river.

There are many great ways to discover the Saguenay Fjord:

• On foot: walk on the marked trails of the Saguenay Fjord National Park. The 7-km long Statue Trail is the best if you want to admire splendid views from the summit.
• Rent a sea kayak to be amazed by the Fjord’s huge cliffs.
• Do a boat tour with an audio guide to learn more about the Fjord’s History and legends.

You should also visit the 2 villages of L’anse-Saint-Jean and Saint-Rose-du-Nord, members of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of Quebec.

Located in the heart of the Saguenay Fjord, these 2 villages are offering magnificent panoramas.

If you’re visiting Quebec during spring, you definitely have to discover the Sugar Shacks.

It’s clearly among the most popular things to do in Quebec!

Every year, both locals and tourists are coming to the province’s many sugar shacks to celebrate the sugar time. At this time of the year, maple water starts flowing from the maple trees. Once boiled, it can be used to produce many typical Canadian products, such as maple syrup or maple butter.

The Sugar Shacks are usually located in the countryside, offering a charming scenery. There are many activities you can enjoy (sleigh rides, maple syrup production, traditional dance), but most people are coming there to eat a typical lunch.

Most of your meal will consist of maple syrup : maple glazed ham , potatoes,  maple and bacon baked beans, sausages, eggs in syrup, and the famous “Oreilles de crisses” , deep-fried smoked pork jowls. And for desert, of course, maple candies and the renowned Maple Taffy: when you pour hot maple syrup directly into the snow, it becomes easy to wrap around a stick and makes a lollipop. A bit sticky but delicious!

You can find all the best Sugar Shacks in Quebec on this website .  If you’re spending a few days in Quebec early spring, it’s clearly a must-see attraction!

I only have one advice: avoid too tight pants! 😋

La Mauricie National Park is located between Montreal and Quebec City, in the heart of the Laurentides mountains.

In this 536 km² park, you will discover more than 150 lakes, many rivers and huge waterfalls.

Fishing, biking, rafting, camping and of course hiking: there are many great activities to do in La Mauricie! You can also observe the amazing wildlife, as the park is full of moose, beavers and raccoons.

A 63-km long  panoramic road crosses the park, starting from Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc or Saint-Jean-des-Piles.

Take some time during your road-trip to admire the beautiful panoramas. You should especially stop at the “Belvedere du Passage” to enjoy a magnificent view of Wapizagonke Lake.

The most famous excursion goes to the Waber falls. To get there, you will have to paddle on a raft for 4 kilometers, then walk for 4 other kilometers. And of course, you will have to go back to your starting point!  As it takes a full day, don’t forget your picnic!

Have you ever tried the Poutine? I really enjoyed this iconic dish from Quebec, but I can tell that it leaves no one indifferent: you either love it or hate it!

If you want to make a typical Poutine, all you will need french fries, brown gravy and cheese curds.

Once you’ve got these 3 ingredients, you can create many variations: change the sauce, the cheese, or add some meat, onions, mushrooms or even sausages!

There are more than 100 different recipes in some restaurants, but not all equal. Montreal’s most famous restaurant for its Poutine is “La Banquise”, open 24/7.

Be prepared to queue up at any time of the day. You should try “La duleton”: it’s a great classical Poutine with minced meat and onions, and it was clearly delicious!

If you want to have a look at the many Poutine variations, you can check “La Banquise” menu on their official website.

Poutine is clearly Quebec’s most famous dish. Every year, the “Poutine Week” is even organized, and more than 50 restaurants are competing and making a special Poutine just for this event. At the end of the week, the jury and consumers are electing their favorite ones in several categories.

The Omega Park is located South West of the Quebec province , about 100 kilometers away from Montreal.

In this wildlife park, you will discover many wild animals in their natural habitat. You can drive through the park for around 10 kilometers and observe wolves, black bears, moose or beavers.

There is also a marked walking trail, a picnic area and a shop. Don’t forget to buy carrots to feed some of the animals!

As the Omega Park is pretty big, you should spend at least half a day there. It’s clearly a great activity if you’re travelling to Quebec with children!

You can also rent an accommodation for the night , in the heart of the park. You will have the choice between tepees, tents, log cabins or even houses on stilts . A tepee for 2 costs around 100$ per night.

You will find every information you need on the park’s official website.

There are many ski resorts in Quebec, but if you want to enjoy magnificent panoramas, you should go to Mont-Sainte-Anne, located 30 minutes away from Quebec City. From the summit, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Saint-Lawrence river.

There, you can go downhill skiing (for 77$ per day), cross-country skiing (for 29$ per day) or snowshoeing (for 12$ per day)

You can plan your day in Mont-Sainte-Anne on the official website .

If you want to practice another typical activity during your holidays in Quebec, you should definitely go ice skating.

Nearly every neighborhood has its own outdoor (and free) skating rink! There, children can practice in complete safety, and adults can play Canada’s most popular sport: ice hockey.

If you’re not a complete beginner, how about ice skating in a magnificent place? You should go to the Lost Forest, in Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel , around a 1h45 drive from Montreal.

There, you can go ice skating through the forest, on a 12-km long trail . It’s truly magical!

You will find every information you need on the Lost Forest’s official website.

Quebec is the perfect destination for canoeing, as the region offers hundreds of lakes and rivers.

Learning to canoe can take some time and is a real challenge. But once you’ve mastered it, there are many beautiful rivers to go canoeing in Quebec.

• The Bonaventure River, often considered as Quebec’s most beautiful river. You will be amazed by its emerald and transparent waters.
• The La Diable and l’Assomption rivers, in Mont-Tremblant National Park.
• The river in Jacques-Cartier National Park
• The Malbaie river in its National Park.
• The Ashuapmushuan river, for experts only!

In Quebec, you can also c ombine canoeing and camping: all day long, you will go down Quebec’s majestic rivers, and stop for the night on the shore. There, everything is prepared for camping, with a fire hole and toilets.

The Magdalen Islands is an archipelago of 12 islands (only 7 of which are inhabited), located in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.

There, you will enjoy magnificent landscapes with large sand beaches, dunes and high cliffs overlooking the ocean.

If you want to get there, you will have 2 options:

• By plane: from Montreal, it takes 2 hours to reach the Magdalen Islands
• By ferry: it takes 5 hours to go from Souris (on Prince Edward Island, accessible by car) to the Magdalen Islands

Every summer, many Quebecers are coming there to relax and enjoy the islands’ beautiful beaches. The islands’ climate is ideal for swimming (at least for Quebecers!), as the water can reach 20°C! With its strong winds, the region is also a famous spot for windsurf and kitesurf.

Moreover, the Magdalen Islands are a perfect place for hiking lovers. If you’re going to the Cap aux Meules island, you should do the Barachois trail. There, you can observe many birds.

You can also book an excursion to see the seals living around the islands.

If you want to plan your trip to the Magdalen Islands, you can visit the official website.

Anticosti Island is Quebec’s largest natural Island. It is located in Gaspé Peninsula, in front of the towns of Gaspé and Percé.

It’s definitely the perfect place if you want to relax for a few days, discover breathtaking landscapes and observe an amazing wildlife. In Anticosti, you will probably see many deers , as it’s the island’s iconic animal.

The best places to visit in Anticosti are:

• The Port-Menier eco-museum, if you want to discover the island’s History.
• The 76-meter high Vaureal waterfall  and canyon
• The Kalamazoo falls
• The Brick river canyon and its many trouts.
• The Jupiter river, renowned for its salmons
• Patate Cave (literally “Potato Cave”), one of Quebec’s largest natural caves

The cheapest way to go to Anticosti is to take the ferry in Havre-Saint-Pierre. It takes around 5 hours, and costs 60$. You should also rent a car to get around the island.

If you want to enjoy a typical Quebec tradition, then you should definitely go brunching during the weekend. It was one of my favorite things to do when I lived in Montreal!

Many restaurants are offering brunches in Quebec. The typical Canadian brunch consists of various sorts of eggs, bacon, baked beans, potatoes, coffee, tea and orange juice.

In addition to these typical dishes, many restaurants are also serving fresh fruits, smoothies, pancakes, crêpes, sausages or bagels,… That’s why you choose a restaurant rather than another!

It’s impossible to list the best places to brunch in Quebec, as it’s really subjective and depends on what you like most.

Every person in Quebec would have a different answer! I can only tell that I’ve tried many different brunchs in Quebec and I’ve never been disappointed.

And you, what do you plan to visit during your trip to Quebec?

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

75 of the Best Things To Do in Quebec

August 18, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 33 Comments

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Things to Do in Quebec last updated: August 11th, 2021

As Canada’s largest province, as well as the only province whose sole official language is French, Quebec is an incredible destination rich in history, culture, and adventures. Located in Eastern Canada, Quebec borders Ontario to the west, New Brunswick to the east, the Hudson Bay to the north, and the United States to the south. With a rich history encompassing sieges and battles, the foundations of Quebec date back to the 16th century with remnants of the past still visible today.

We’ve explored Quebec many times, both in the winter and in the summer, and always look forward to going back. Whether it’s roaming the streets of Old Montreal, exploring the walled city of Quebec, whale watching in Tadoussac, sleeping with wolves in Montebello, or playing with falcons in Mont Tremblant, Quebec has become one of our favourite places to visit.

Whether you’re planning to explore the cities, the beaches, the mountains, or everything in-between, we’ve got you covered in this comprehensive travel guide to the wonderful province of Quebec!

Table of Contents

Getting to Quebec

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Quebec, here’s some practical advice on how to get here.

Getting to Quebec by Car

If you’re planning to drive to Quebec, it’s located to the east of Ontario and to the west of New Brunswick. It’s also north of New York, Vermont, and Maine. The province of Quebec is literally right next to Ottawa and Montreal is less than two hours drive from Ottawa as well. Due to the amount of things to do and its central location, it makes for an excellent Canadian road trip. Rental cars are plentiful as well, whether you’re arriving by plane, bus, or train. We typically recommend using Priceline to search car rental prices as well as hotels. (affiliate link)

Getting to Quebec by Plane

Quebec is home to many airports with the main two located in Montreal and in Quebec City. These two major airports are the Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport in Montreal and the Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport. The driving distance between these two airports is approximately three hours.

Both airports offer rental cars, making it easy to grab your own transportation and hit the open road.

Getting to Quebec by Bus

Due to its size ad popularity, Quebec is easily accessible by bus. We always use Busbud as our first option for finding different bus routes, but here are some options below:

Greyhound: Visitors travelling by bus from the USA can come into Montréal via Greyhound. If you would like to go to Quebec City, you would then transfer to the Orléans Express bus for Québec City.

Orléans Express: The Orléans Express Coach Lines provide daily service between Québec City, Montréal, and other destinations in the province.

Fédération des transporteurs par autobus – Intercity Transit: Accessible to all, the intercity transportation network consists of 222 bus stations throughout Québec for efficient, timely travel.

Intercar: Intercar links Québec City with Saguenay, Lac-Saint-Jean, Charlevoix, and all destinations along the North Shore (Côte-Nord).

Getting to Quebec by Train

If you’d like to stroll into Quebec via train, this is also a possibility thanks to both VIA Rail and Amtrak.

VIA Rail Canada: You’ll find daily VIA Rail Canada service between Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal and Québec City.

Amtrak: Visitors travelling by train from the USA will come to Montréal via Amtrak. For Quebec City, you’d then transfer to VIA Rail Canada trains for Québec City.

Getting Around Quebec

Quebec is a big province. However, many of its popular attractions are in the southern portion of the province, which makes it relatively easy to get around. Due to this and all the activities, it’s possible to get around by car, by bus, or even by an organized tour. On nice sunny days, both Montreal and Quebec City can also be explored by bicycle.

Fun Facts about Quebec

• The Chateau Frontenac Hotel holds the Guinness World Record for the most photographed hotel in the world!
• Quebec manufactures more than 77% of the world’s maple syrup. In total, Canada produces 80% of the world’s supply. It was also invented in Quebec in the 17 or 1800s.
• It has the oldest English language newspaper in North America.
• Quebec is the only officially French-speaking province

For more amazing facts, check out our article about some of the most interesting facts about Canada .

Best Time to Visit Quebec

Quebec is home to some pretty extreme weather. You’ll find scorching hot summers and extremely cold winters. It also varies depending on where you are. For example, Quebec City gets far more snow than Montreal, and if you’re visiting Quebec’s far north, you’ll experience a much colder winter than you would in the south. Overall though, as long as you dress properly, Quebec is a popular destination in all seasons.

Like much of Canada, the most popular time to visit Quebec is during the summer months, followed by both the fall and the spring. Winter also draws some crowds, especially those seeking to experience the Quebec Winter Carnival or skiing at Mont Tremblant. However, accommodation in the summer months is significantly more expensive and can sell out at certain times. Booking in advance is critical during these times.

As mentioned, Quebec is popular in all four seasons. For example, summer is great for general outdoor activities and festivals. The spring is a great time to find fresh maple syrup. Quebec is also one of the best places in Canada to view beautiful fall foliage and the winters are home to an array of outdoor activities and winter festivals.

If you want to avoid the tourist season, come in April, May, or June, rather than July, August, or September. Winter is also the best time to visit Old Québec, which can look quite magical under a blanket of snow.

Average temperatures throughout the year (high/low):

June: 22 oC, 72 oF / 11 oC, 52 oF July: 25 oC, 77 oF / 14 oC, 57 oF August: 24 oC, 75 oF / 13 oC, 55 oF

September: 18 oC, 64 oF / 8 oC, 46 oF October: 11 oC, 52 oF / 2 oC, 36 oF November: 3 oC, 37 oF / -4 oC, 25 oF

December: -4 oC, 25 oF / -13 oC, 9 oF January: -8 oC, 18 oF / -18 oC, 0 oF February: -6 oC, 21 oF / -16 oC, 3 oF

March: 0 oC, 32 oF / -9 oC, 16 oF April: 8 oC, 46 oF / -1 oC, 30 oF May: 17 oC, 63 oF / 5 oC, 41 oF

Road to 150 – Quebec Road Trip

Quebec was our fifth stop during our 150-day road trip across Canada. We spent approximately two weeks in Quebec, whale watching in Tadassouc, learning about history in Quebec City, exploring the vibrant city of Montreal, sleeping in treehouses, and playing with falcons in Mont Tremblant. We packed a lot of adventures into our short visit but we’ve been back many times since, doing new things like experiencing Quebec’s Winter Carnival, sleeping with wolves at Parc Omega, and indulging in North America’s largest spa in Chelsea.

There is so much to do in Quebec, for both outdoor lovers and city slickers. Whether you’re looking for incredible natural parks to explore, charming small towns, First Nations culture, or bustling cities, Quebec is the place to be!

You can learn more about our 150-day Canadian road trip by clicking here .

What to Do in Quebec

We’ve explored Quebec many times and as you’ve probably learned by now, we love it. So, while we certainly don’t have space here to provide a list of every single thing to do in Canada’s largest province, we have compiled 74 incredibly awesome things to do in the most popular areas to visit in La Belle Province .

Things to Do in Montreal

One of Canada’s most famous cities, Montreal is a cosmopolitan, European-style city that has become one of the top travel destinations in the country. Located in the mostly French-speaking province of Quebec, Montreal is actually one of the five largest French-speaking cities in the world. However, it also has more English speakers than any other place in the province. It’s home to lots of history, museums, art galleries, and so much more.

Wander around Old Montreal

This is where it all started for one of the world’s most famous cities. Home to cobblestone streets bordered by 17th-, 18th- and 19th-century buildings, Old Montreal is the best place to explore by foot. Wander the old streets, check out the art galleries, eat at the French restaurants, and shop at the many souvenir shops while taking photos at every corner. Another option is to take a Local Montreal Food Tour , which will bring you around to different foodie spots, enjoying things like poor man’s pudding, scrumptious bagels, and more.

Visit Place d’Armes and the Notre Dame Basilica

While wandering around Old Montreal, take the time to visit Place d’Armes, which is the second oldest site in Montreal. You’ll probably make it here regardless since it’s where you’ll find the Notre-Dame Basilica , which is one of the most visited monuments in North America. While the square is free to visit, there is a charge to enter the church ($15 CAD). The Notre-Dame Basilica is a 17th-century Gothic Revival Basilica with dual towers that easily capture the eye from the outside. Inside, however, is regarded as one of the most dramatic in the world with religious paintings, intricate wooden carvings, religious statues, deep blue vaults, and gold-lead decoration, not to mention the 7,000-pipe organ.

Visit the Montreal Biodome

Price: $19.75/Adult, $10/Children ages 5-17

Whether you visit the city in the summer or the winter, the Montréal Biodôme is a great place for the whole family. Home to five ecosystems from the Americas, it’s a wonderful place to get immersed in nature while learning about the different environments. The biodome houses more than 250,000 animals from about 220 different species and 500 plant species and is one of the few places in the world to reproduce the complexity of the natural environment and the interactions between animal and plant species.

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts

If you’re into the arts, this is the place for you. This is the largest art museum in Canada by gallery space. Located in the historic Golden Square, this museum is spread out over a massive total floor area of 571,510 square feet. Inside, you’ll find a permanent collection of over 44,000 works and is home to the oldest art library in Canada.

Visit the Botanical Garden (or Jardin Botanique)

If you’re looking for a slice of nature within the city, you’ll want to visit the Jardin Botanique , which just so happens to be the second-largest botanical garden in the world. Opened in 1931 and designated a National Historic Site in Canada in 2008, it showcases ten indoor greenhouses, such as a Chinese garden, a Japanese garden, a beautiful First Nations Garden, and a rose garden. In total, the botanical garden comprises 190 acres of thematic gardens and greenhouses and is considered to be one of the most important botanical gardens in the world.

Explore the Montreal Biosphere

This one-of-a-kind museum is dedicated to the environment and is located in the former pavilion of the United States for the 1967 World Fair, Expo 67. It’s a beautiful place and a great way to learn about climate change, how the environment works, and our effect on the planet. There are really cool exhibits and a 4D, 360-degree theatre.

Climb Mount Royal

The city of Montreal stretches across the horizon from the lookout atop Mount Royal , a 200-hectare park in the middle of the city that includes the highest point in Montreal. Walking trails throughout the park offer an airy, green relief from the developed city.

Explore the Underground City

Inspired by the cold winters, The Underground City (also known as RÉSO) is a series of interconnected office towers, shopping centres, hotels, convention halls, universities, and performing arts venues. The name is a little misleading in the sense that it refers to the entire complex, consisting of the underground connections between the buildings and its integration with the city’s underground rapid transit system. Think of it as an indoor city where you can accomplish many things without stepping foot outdoors.

La Ronde Amusement Park

Price: $46.99 – $63.99. Children 2 and under are free. Discounts available online.

Owned and operated by Six Flags, La Ronde is the largest amusement park in Quebec and one of the largest in Canada. It’s home to a variety of epic rollercoasters as well as a new Virtual Reality Roller Coaster that transports riders into an alien invasion through wireless headsets as they soar down Goliath. However, there are also family-friendly rides and a variety of shows, shopping and dining options.

Place des Arts

This cultural and artistic complex, the largest of its kind in Canada, is the hub of artistic activity in Quebec. Whether you watch the ballet, attend an opera, or listen to Quebec’s best french artists, Place des Arts is a grandiose venue for music, theatre, and comedy.

Jump out of a Plane

If you’re looking for adrenaline, have you considered jumping out of a plane at 13,500 feet? If so, Parachute Montreal uses some of the best technology and training methods in Canada’s largest dropzone. Experience an incredible 60-second freefall, soaring through the air at 200 km/hour, until the parachute is pulled. After that, it becomes a little more serene as the next 5-8 minutes offer stunning views across the Eastern Townships near Montreal. This activity is located approximately 30 minutes from Montreal.

Visit the Montreal Holocaust Memorial Center

Price: $8/Adults, $5/seniors and students.

We all know about the atrocities committed by the nazis just a few decades ago. Now you can learn even more by visiting the Montreal Holocaust Memorial Center as it goes into the dark topic of anti-Semitism, racism, hate and indifference.

Montreal Science Center

Price: $8-24.

Home to the Telus IMAX theatre, as well as special events, games, and experiments, the  Montreal Science Centre  is a great place for those interested in innovation and discovery. Exhibitions range from gadgets to human evolution, involving visitors in every process.

Price: From $12.95 to $38.95. Children under 2 free.

Although it’s not located in Montreal, it’s not too far away. Built in 1953, the Granby Zoo is one of Quebec’s top tourist attractions, allowing visitors to see the animals of Africa, South America, Oceania, Asia, and the South Pacific.

Go Train-crazy at Exporail

Price: From $4 – $18.

Located in Saint-Constant, not too far from Montreal, this  Canadian Railway Museum has educational activities for the whole family. Take a ride on a miniature train, streetcar, or passenger train or attend a theme day. Young or old, if you’re into trains, this is a great place to go!

Laval Nature Center

Kids will especially love this one. Spend the day playing with farm animals and enjoying 50 hectares of green space at the Nature Center in Laval. During the summer months, kids can also take a pony ride for $3. A small train offers transport around the recreational area for $3 per person, making it a special treat for kids or those young at heart.

For more, check out our detailed guide about the best things to do in Montreal .

Things to Do in Quebec City

Québec City sits along the St. Lawrence River in the mostly french-speaking province of Quebec. Dating all the way back to 1608, it features a unique European charm, a fortified colonial core, a parliament building modelled after the famous Louvre Museum in Paris, and a variety of stone buildings and cobblestone streets. It’s easily one of Canada’s most beautiful cities and is only a 3-hour drive from world-famous Montreal.

Old Quebec and the Walled City

Old Quebec (Vieux Quebec) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is full of museums, restaurants, and shops. Horse-drawn carriage rides and the New French-style architecture give the quarter a distinctly European feel, making it a beautiful place to walk around. It’s also home to the Fortifications of Quebec, making it the only walled city north of Mexico. The fort circles Upper Town in a 4.6 kilometre stone circle, along which pedestrians can stroll around while looking down on Old Quebec from scattered canons that give a feeling for the historical military presence over the city.

Stroll through Quartier Petit Champlain

Located within Old Quebec, this is quite possibly the prettiest street in the country. Browse boutiques, art galleries, jewelry stores, and sweet shops along this quaint, cobblestone pedestrian street. When your feet get tired of wandering, there are plenty of restaurants, pubs, and cafes to sit down and indulge in.

Take a Historical Walking Tour

Thanks to its charming cobblestone streets and a European feel, Old Quebec is one of the most visited areas in all of Canada. It really is a beautiful place but it’s much better if you take a historical walking tour to learn about the history of one of Canada’s oldest cities. We did ours with Xavier from Toursbylocals.com and he was both excellent and passionate at telling us all about local areas and taking us around the city for some good vantage points to take photos from. highly recommended!

Go on a Cruise

If you’d like a relaxing sightseeing tour of the surrounding area, this might be the tour for you. You’ll get live commentary from a costumed member of the crew and you’ll get to see Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls, and other sights from the boat. Another option if you’re just looking for a view of Old Quebec is to take the ferry to Levis.

Quebec to Levis Ferry

Price: From $2.40 – $3.55 per person.

The Levis Ferry crosses the St. Lawrence River from Old Quebec to Levis. The ferry is also part of a beautiful bicycle route that extends from the Littoral in Quebec City to Parcours des Anses in Levis. The crossing only takes about 12 minutes, but the ride offers gorgeous views of the North and South shores from the water. This is a cheap way to get views of the city from the water.

Montmorency Falls

If you like waterfalls, Montmorency Falls is a great place to go! This powerful waterfall is actually taller than Niagara Falls and can be seen from all sorts of angles thanks to the walking loop, which includes a bridge that lets you peek down over the falls. If you don’t mind getting wet, you can then walk to the lower platform where you’ll feel the power of the falls as the water, wind, and mist pelt you like a hurricane. This was my favourite part of the walking loop as it felt like such an adventure. It’s really impressive how powerful the waterfall is. You can then take a scenic gondola back up to the top.

Huron-Wendat Museum

If you’re looking to learn about the indigenous culture around Quebec City, this is the place to go. Not only is it a beautiful building filled with artifacts but there’s also a real traditional longhouse that you can walk in and experience. I had no idea these existed until I visited the Huron-Wendat Museum . We then made bannock over the fire. Amazing place!

Visit Ste-Anne-de-Beaupre Basilica

Price: $2/person. Mass is free.

Beautiful white spires, stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork make this sanctuary one of the most beautiful churches in all of Canada. Saint Anne, to whom the shrine is dedicated, was Mary’s mother. The Basilica is open daily 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. While the church is not located in Quebec City, it’s only 30km east along the St. Lawrence  River.

Admire Quebec’s Parliament

Home to the government of Quebec, this 19th-century building has eight floors and stands 52 meters high. Unique from other Canadian Parliament buildings, it features the Second Empire architectural style. The building’s facade and grounds include twenty-two statues of influential individuals from Quebec’s history. Visitors can take a free, 45-minute guided tour beginning at the Visitors Centre.

Visit the Plains of Abraham

In 1759 and 1760, the Battle of Quebec took a pivotal turn at the Plains of Abraham . It was here that the British conquered Quebec and the fate of North America was sealed. The park has witnessed many deaths, including fallen soldiers and executions. These days, the park is not only historic, but it is also beautiful as it is home to 103-hectares of meadows, grassy hills and fresh air.

Citadelle de Quebec

Price: From $6 – $16/Adult.

For history buffs, this is a unique opportunity to experience 100 years of history at the Citadelle, an active military fortress and museum atop Cape Diamond, the highest natural point in the area. Built between 1820 and 1850, the Citadelle is the largest British fortress built in North America. Wander between canons, listen to a guided tour and watch the changing of the guards.

Place Royale and Old Port

Back in 1608, Samuel de Champlain chose this place to start a trading post. Oh, how the times have changed. Now, it’s a bustling market that’s become the home of many merchants and ship owners. Located in Quebec City’s Lower Town, the square sits the oldest stone church in Quebec, as well as an incredible fresco that traces 400 years of Quebecois history.

Stroll La Promenade de Samuel Champlain

Walk, run or cycle next to the water along the Promenade de Samuel Champlain. The four sections of the promenade include Station des Cageux (a wetland with access to a waterslide), Boisé de Tequenonday (which has a small lookout with a wonderful view), Station des Sports (which contains two soccer fields and a multi-use grass area) and Station des Qais (the cultural focal point of the Promenade). Wherever you go, you’ll be next to the water.

Get a View from the Observatory

Price: From $11 – $14. Free for children under 12.

If you’re looking for the best view of Quebec City, you’ll want to head up to the highest point in the city at the Observatorie de la Capitale. Offering a 360-degree panoramic view of Quebec City, this 31-floor, 221 metre-high structure is Quebec’s tallest. From the top floor, visitors can see all the way out to the Appalachian Foothills, the Laurentians and île d’Oréans.

The Museum of Civilization

Price: From $5 – $16.

Established in 1984 under the National Museums Act, Musée de la Civilisation is a government-run corporation, showcasing the creativity, culture and history of Quebec through touring exhibitions, guided tours and artifact collections.

Aquarium de Quebec

Home to over 10,000 fish, as well as reptiles, amphibians, polar bears, walruses and seals, the Quebec Aquarium is a popular attraction. Spread out over 16 hectares, both indoors and outdoors, there are educational shows throughout the day.

Jacques-Cartier National Park

Located just 30-minutes away, Jacques-Cartier National Park is the perfect place to explore the outdoors. With over 100 kilometres of hiking trails, a winding river, and deep valleys formed by glaciers spanning 670 square kilometres, this park is an adventure-lovers haven. The Eastern Borealis forest offers practically endless activities including canoeing, kayaking, dog sledding, horseback riding, skiing, tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, bird watching, rafting,  golfing, and mountain biking.

The Brousseau and Brousseau Inuit Art Gallery

If you’re looking for some incredible indigenous artwork, this is the place to go. Showcasing the best work by Inuit artists in Quebec, this gallery represents the regions of Nunavik, Kivalliq, Kitikmeot, Baffin and Inuvialuit. Pieces include serpentine sculptures and caribou wood carvings for sale.

Carnaval de Quebec (winter)

Quebec’s Winter Carnival is an annual event that includes an ice palace, an international snow sculpture competition, a winter canoe race and a night parade. Since 1894, the Quebecois have been celebrating with winter-themed activities to keep them warm in the brutal, long winters. It is the largest winter festival in Canada and the second-largest in the world.

Snowboard at Mont Saint Anne (winter)

If you’re in Quebec City during the winter months, head out to Mont Saint Anne for some skiing and snowboarding while catching glimpses of the might St. Lawrence River. There are plenty of other activities on and off the alpine mountain as well, including ice skating, paragliding or soaking in a Nordique spa.

Ski at Le Massif de Charlevoix (winter)

Another great ski resort near Quebec City is Le Massif. Soar down the highest slope east of the Rockies on your skis or snowboard. With 52 trails, the majority of which are rated “Extremely Difficult”, this is no little hill (although they do have a bunny hill for beginners).  They also have a terrain park and trails for tobogganing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Sleep in an Ice Hotel

During the cold winter months, Quebec City is home to the only ice hotel in North America! It’s truly an astonishing piece of art and architecture with more than 20 themed rooms and many other basic rooms, all made out of ice- even the bed! We didn’t spend the night during our visit but we did visit and take a tour to marvel at how beautiful it really is. Plus, you can get a drink in an ice glass, so that’s pretty cool too.

Dog Sledding (winter)

If you’re visiting during the winter months and want to feel the exhilaration of being pulled by 6 excited huskies, then you’ll want to head out to St-Ètienne-de-Lauzon and do some dog-sledding. You and your partner can switch off being the musher, or opt to have a guide steer the dogs around. Now that’s Canadian!

For more, check out our detailed guide about things to do in Quebec City in the Winter !

Things to do around Saguenay Quebec

Located north of Quebec City and straddling the St. Lawrence Seaway, the Saguenay area is known for its charming small towns, beautiful natural scenery, and incredible whale watching opportunities.

Whale Watching in Tadoussac

Located just three hours from Quebec City in the small town of Tadoussac, the best area in Quebec for whale watching. Choose the type of boat you’d like to board or find a good viewpoint from the shoreline and get ready for some action. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a number of marine animals (including 12 specifics of whales) breaking the surface of the water in the St. Lawrence and the Saguenay Rivers. We’ve done this tour a couple of times and have seen dozens of humpback whales breach the water. Whale watching in Tadoussac offers some of the best whale watching in Canada !

Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre

Price: $10.50/adult but free for children.

When not out seeing whales with your own eyes, go and explore Canada’s sea life in this interactive, multimedia centre. You’ll learn about marine animals through a collection of skeletons and even a singing lesson from a whale.

Musée d’art Contemporaire Baie-Saint-Paul

Designed by award-winning architect Pierre Thibault, the building itself a work of art. Inside, however, guests will find a collection that carries over 400 beautiful works. The famous names in the history of painting in Quebec and high-quality exhibitions showcased by the art gallery have led to its recognition as a museum.

Site Historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père

Price: From $17 – $24/adult. Children 7 and under free.

Dive into more than 200 years of history at this Maritime Museum , climbing aboard The Onondaga, Canada’s only publicly accessible submarine. Learn about the sinking of The Empress of Ireland and experience what life was like in Quebec in 1914, when the ship sank. Join a guided tour and explore lighthouse buildings built in 1909. Open June through October.

Go Sea Kayaking

Sea kayaking has become a popular adventure sport throughout the Saguenay region. Paddle through Saguenay Fjord for a few hours on a guided expedition or take a 3-day, 2-night kayak tour to the St. Lawrence estuary. For those seeking adventure, this is the perfect opportunity. Receive training, high-quality equipment and gourmet meals with Fjord en Kayak’s overnight packages.

Saguenay Fjord National Park

Does it get any more beautiful? Yes! Ranked as the top thing to do in the area, many cruise ships stop here to admire the incredible forest and mountain scenery. For those seeking adventure, consider the challenging Via Ferrata for incredible views or jump on an inflatable Zodiac boat for a tour from the Rivière Saguenay.

Things to Do in Gatineau

Bordering Canada’s capital city, Gatineau shares a lot of tourism with Ottawa. It’s home to some incredible things to do, such as the Canadian Museum of History, and is often someone’s first entry into the province of Quebec. From here, you can also drive to Montreal in approximately two hours.

Canadian Museum of History

Price: From $9 – $15.

The Canadian Museum of History is Canada’s national museum of human history with special and permanent exhibits, a children’s museum, interactive activities, and a cinema. Both inside and outside, it’s an absolute work of art. Located right across the bridge from Ottawa and offering some of the best views of the parliament buildings, this is the most visited museum in all of Canada.

Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park is a very accessible and enjoyable park in all seasons. Whether you go boating in the summer or cross-country skiing in the winter, it’s a popular place for locals to get outdoors. Plus, Champlain Lookout offers the most popular view from the park over the Ottawa Valley.

INAC Gallery

Those seeking indigenous art will want to visit the INAC art collection, which is comprised of over 4,000 works of contemporary Aboriginal art. In the late 1960s, INAC became the first federal government institution to support the development of Aboriginal art in Canada. The gallery features scheduled exhibitions and showcases a selection of this large, dynamic collection. Plus, it’s free!

Go Zip-lining

Price: From $26 – $36

For those seeking some fun and adrenaline, this is your chance to soar through the forest at La Fleche Park. Soar across 45 suspended bridges and 9 zip lines, leading you from tree to tree and across a lake before scaling a rock wall with the help of Via Ferrata. It makes for a fun day but If heights aren’t your thing, you can also go below the earth on a Cave Tour or challenge your friends to a GPS race!

Seek Art at Axenéo7

Ran by artists, for artists, Axenéo7 is dedicated to promoting and pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. The gallery invites artists to submit their work and is open to critiquing art while improving artists’ conditions for creation.

Nordik Spa-Nature

Although not located in Gatineau, it’s only 15-minutes away in Chelsea, making it one of the awesome things to do in Ottawa or in Gatineau. This is an adult paradise, featuring 10 exterior baths, 9 distinct saunas, a panoramic pool, a floating salt-water pool, numerous resting places, a yoga and meditation room, an exfoliation room, outdoor massage pavilions, and 4 restaurants.

For more, check out our detailed guide about things to do in Ottawa !

Things to do in the Gaspe peninsula

Known for being one of the best Canada road trips , the Gaspe Peninsula is incredibly scenic. If you’re looking for stunning coastal views and outdoor adventure, add this place to your bucket list.

Forillon National Park

If you’re looking to get up close and personal with sea lions or watching whales breach the surface, make your way to Forillon National Park . Besides taking a dip in the water, you can also tour several historical buildings and check out World War II gun installations.

Gaspésie National Park

Home to mountains and a variety of wildlife, Gaspésie National Park is a great place for hikers and wildlife photographers. You can also have a variety of accommodation options, choosing to stay overnight on the alpine tundra or sleep in luxury in the 4-star Gîte du Mont-Albert Hotel.

Go Heli-Skiing

Canada’s eastern ski terrain is often ignored for the world-class mountain resorts in the west…but that also means it’s virtually untouched. Create your own tracks through fresh powder on a full- or half-day heli-skiing excursion. Auberge Chic-chac (hostel) organizes overnight packages that include meals and a night at the hostel. This is located in the Chic-Choc Mountains of Murdochville. Prices range from $1,100 for full-day one night, three meals; $650 for half-day, one night, three meals.

Hike the Appalachian Trail

If hiking is your thing, the Appalachian Trail should be high on your bucket list. Quebec Adventure organizes 4-day, 4-night shelter-to-shelter trips for groups of 8 or less in partnership with Parcs Quebec. All meals and transportation are included.

Reford Gardens

Price: $10 – $20/Adult. Children 13 and under free.

In 1926, Elsie Reford decided to plant a garden in her fishing camp along the St. Lawrence River. Despite numerous hurdles, the construction was finished in 10 years. Her garden was a marvel of exotic and beautiful plants and is now a publicly accessible National Historic Site.

Things to Do in Mont Tremblant & Surrounding Area

Just 2-hours outside of Montreal is the Mont Tremblant ski resort and national park. This is a great place to go for experiencing nature and trying a variety of fun adventurous activities.

Mont Tremblant National Park

Parc National du Mont-Tremblant is Quebec’s second-largest national park, and one of the most accessible as well. Home to six rivers and hundreds of lakes, it’s a great destination for paddlers and beach bums. This beautiful area is home to 40 different types of animals that enjoy the park as much as human visitors do.

Mont Tremblant Gondola

Whether you take the gondola both ways or hike to the top and take it down, seeing the surrounding area from the top of the mountain is a must-do. You’ll see the beautiful Laurentian mountains in all their glory as well as the village.

Ziptrek Ecotours

If you like zip lines or have always wanted to try one, this is one of the best in Canada! Five zip-lines, some of which are over 3,000 feet long, will take you across various mountains, allowing you to reach speeds of up to 100 km/h while enjoying mind-blowing views. You can even go upside down! Ziptrek Ecotours also takes the time to teach you about the local environment and ecology. This was a blast!

Birds of Prey Apprentice-Falconer Walk

Have you ever wanted to see a hawk up close? How about having one land on your arm? The Apprentice-Falconer Walk is an incredible experience. I was mesmerized by the incredible agility of the hawk and how effortlessly he flew from tree to tree and right onto my arm to eat his raw chicken. It was a beautiful experience and afterwards, we went to the Birds of Prey show, where we got to see different owls, birds, and a bald eagle up close and personal. Highly recommended.

Mont-Tremblant Treehouses

If you’re looking for a place to get into nature, I highly recommend staying at Les Refuges Perches, otherwise known as Mont-Tremblant Treehouses. Located right on a quiet lake, the only annoyance you might find is a woodpecker in a nearby tree. You can’t even drive to the treehouse. You either have to walk 20-minutes or paddle a canoe for 12-minutes, which adds to the adventure. You’ll get a campfire, a dock for the canoe, and a beautiful tree-house that’s fully equipped. We really loved swimming in the lake, paddling the canoe, and walking around the various trails. Back at the main lodge, you’ll find hot clean showers and WiFi if you need it. This was one of our favourite places to stay during our trip across Canada.

Excursion Yoga

If you like yoga and being in nature, Excursion Yoga is for you. This isn’t something we’ve tried yet but we can’t imagine a better spot for yoga than on top of a mountain looking out at an incredible view. A typical day out includes 2+ hours of hiking, 1+ hours of yoga, and a 30-minute picnic.

Snowshoeing (winter)

One of the most iconic Canadian activities is snowshoeing. It’s also one of the easiest activities for people to do. With all the adventurous wilderness in Mont Tremblant, it’s the perfect opportunity to strap on snowshoes and go trekking through the vast, white wilderness—which can also include visiting a traditional log cabin and indulging in fondue next to a wood-burning fire.

Snowmobiling (winter)

Price: $99 and up

For those seeking winter speed, you’ll want to jump on a snowmobile and go soaring through the trails. Arctic Adventure rents out snowmobiles and organizes half-day and full-day snowmobile tours around Entrelacs. Cross snow-covered forests and drive over deeply frozen lakes, all led by a knowledgeable guide. Whether you want to go full-throttle or explore at a leisurely pace, seeing Quebec by snowmobile is an awesome experience.

Other Things to Do and See in Quebec

Located almost half-way between both Montreal and Ottawa, this Canadian safari park is home a range of local wildlife, including elk, bison, black bears, caribou, and perhaps the most famous of them all – grey wolves. Open year-round, guests drive around the park while admiring the animals from inside their vehicle. However, there are two additional activities that make this place unique. First, you are able to feed carrots to some of the animals right from your window. Second, you can actually stay the night in a wolf cabin and have wolves wander up to your floor-to-ceiling window all night long. Please note that motorcycles are not allowed.

Magdalen Islands

It might not be the Caribbean but it sort of looks like it in the photos. The Magdalen Islands (Îles de la Madeleine) have a unique ecosystem that has become a popular vacation spot for Quebecers and Canadians alike. Home to spectacular beaches, fauna, flora, fisheries, and landscapes rich with red and grey sandstone fill the islands, visitors can partake in a plethora of activities such as hiking, cycling or just relaxing on the white-sand beaches.

Once again, two weeks was just not enough to fully explore the huge province of Quebec but it certainly gave us a good taste! We hope you find this list useful in planning your next adventure and if you have any other recommendations, please let us know!

Learn about Inuit culture at Parcs Nunavik

For those seeking a true adventure, Parcs Nunavik takes guests on a 9-day guided expedition to the Summit of Mount D’Iberville, the highest peak in Quebec at an elevation of 1,652 metres. Hikers will learn about Inuit culture from their guides as they trek up the mountain. Talk about an exciting experience! This place is off-the-beaten-track, located in the Torngat Mountains, along the border between Quebec and Labrador

Parc National d’Anticosti

If you’re looking for somewhere truly special and far from the norm, this might be the ticket. Few places in the world are as remote and unspoiled as Anticosti Island. Meet the lighthouse keepers, go fly-fishing and explore the national park for a serene island escape with very few other people.

La Mauricie National Park

Located not too far from both Quebec City and Montreal, this national park allows you to get out into the wild without venturing too far. However, you can be as remote as you want with over 150 lakes, numerous waterfalls, and plenty of trails. Whether you hear the beautiful call of a loon or not, this is a great place to get away from it all.

Aiguebelle National Park

Located a little farther north than most venture, you’ll find beautiful Aiguebelle National Park with its blue waters, lush green valleys, and unbelievable sunsets. This park has a number of features as well, including a 22-metre-high suspended footbridge, rustic shelters, a spiral staircase, and a floating walkway.

Lake Témiscouata National Park

Located almost on the border between Quebec and New Brunswick, you’ll find Lake Témiscouata National Park, which is home to eight hiking trails and a beautiful lake that’s perfect for paddleboarding, pedal boating, kayaking, and fishing.

Kuururjuaq National Park

To visit Kuururjuaq National Park, you’ll need to be a true adventurer. Located up towards Nunavut at the ver northern stretched of Quebec,  you’ll find 4,000 square kilometres of stunning nature that is also an important cultural and spiritual region for the Inuit who call it home. Parc Nunavik leads guided expeditions through the park for visitors who don’t know where to start.

Frontenac National Park

Located in-between Montreal and Quebec City, close to the American border, is Frontenac National Park. Here you can canoe or kayak through the third largest lake south of St. Lawrence as well as go bird-watching to find the 200 species of birds throughout the park. You may even find wild orchids and rare carnivore plants.

Popular Quebec Festivals and Events

Quebec is great at throwing parties. Whether you’re looking to celebrate Francophone culture, dance to live jazz music, cheer on cyclists at the Grand Prix, or party outdoors in the snow, there’s a festival for everything! Below are just some of the popular ones.

Quebec Winter Carnival (winter)

We mentioned this in the Quebec City section as well but it just can’t be overlooked. As the largest winter festival in the world outside of China, it’s a special experience. From tobogganing to an ice canoe race and lively parade, people travel from all around to experience this.

Igloofest (Winter)

Throughout January and February, top national and international DJs take over Montreal’s Old Port once the sun goes down. This 4-week festival mixes electronic music with ice slides, sumo wrestling and a marshmallow roast. Since it’s all outdoors, you’ve got to dance to stay warm!

Festival des Surcres (Spring)

Located in a maple grove, the forest comes alive with cozy fireplaces and traditional country music each and every spring. The Festival des Surcres festival celebrates the Quebecois cultural creation of maple taffy on snow. This is one of our favourite sweets. It’s soooooo good.  It is also one of Quebec’s oldest festivals. Beyond sugary treats, there are family-friendly activities, such as a folk gala, softball tournament, and inflatable games.

The Montreal International Jazz Festival (Summer)

For jazz lovers out there, this is one festival you don’t want to miss! Every year, the Quartier des Spectacles transforms into a music-lovers haven for 10 days in June and/or July. Featuring 3,000 artists from across the globe, this is an inclusive event for families, friends, seniors and singles. Even better? Two-thirds of the concerts are free!

Les FrancoFolies de Montreal (Summer)

Francophone culture is celebrated across Canada and throughout the world but the biggest celebration of French culture, language, and music takes place every year in Montreal at the Les FrancoFolies de Montreal. Enjoy live world beat, electronic, and rock music at indoor and outdoor shows.

Just for Laughs Festival (Summer)

When it comes to comedy, Just for Laughs is king. Street festivals, galas, solo and theatre performances, and concerts and special events are all a part of the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal, the largest comedy fest in the world. Come for one of 1,200 free outdoor shows or stay for the entire weekend of eye-watering humour.

Things to Do Around Quebec

Well, that’s it, folks. This is certainly not an exhaustive list of every single thing there is to do in Canada’s largest province, but it’s enough to keep you busy for months, if not years. It’s certainly a special place and if you have even more time and want to see more, you’re in luck. Canada is awesome from coast to coast to coast.

For more things to do around Quebec and beyond, check out these articles below:

• Best Canada road trips
• Things to Do in Ottawa
• Things to Do in New Brunswick
• Exploring Saint Pierre and Miquelon
• Things to Do in Ontario

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About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

July 20, 2017 at 2:09 pm

Enjoying your adventures traversing Canada. I am jealous yet plan to visit more areas that you described.

July 20, 2017 at 11:43 pm

Thank you! Glad you enjoy them and that we’ve inspired you to travel Canada. Are you from Canada?

July 21, 2017 at 11:23 am

beautiful photography Matthew with awesome adventurous tour……….

April 3, 2021 at 11:28 am

Will bookmark this list a inspo for a Quebec road trip this summer (conditions permitting!)

April 4, 2021 at 11:23 pm

The ferry between Quebec City and Levi is worthwhile for a view of the city from the water.

May 12, 2021 at 8:22 am

A must see for any student graduating from French Immersion (or even 12 years of regular French classes) There’s nothing cooler than going to the Old City and feeling like you’re actually in Europe.

May 23, 2021 at 6:22 pm

My husband and I were hoping to go to Quebec this year, but due to restrictions it looks like we may have to wait for next year. We’ve been checking out the historic sites in particular and would love to do a day tour in Quebec City.

May 25, 2021 at 7:15 pm

I’d love to visit Quebec again!

May 26, 2021 at 2:42 pm

Great ideas for vacationing in my own province, which is necessary due to our well intentioned but draconian lockdown measures

May 30, 2021 at 12:42 pm

Wow I wish I saw this article before 👌

June 10, 2021 at 9:46 pm

The falls are amazing! I did a tour of sugar shacks and a cidery tour in the area as well that were amazing.

June 18, 2021 at 11:08 pm

The maple shack I really wants to go with maple syrup pancakes mmmmmmmm

June 25, 2021 at 12:06 am

Beautiful place. Seems like a really great place to put on my to do list

August 20, 2021 at 3:56 pm

I would love to Holiday at some of these places

February 7, 2022 at 1:52 pm

Amazing guide! We will be in Quebec in May so this helps a lot! Thank you!

March 10, 2022 at 1:04 pm

Quebec City is one of my most favourite places to visit in Canada.

March 16, 2022 at 2:45 pm

You missed the best part: Perce Rock in Gaspe, Quebec!

March 17, 2022 at 2:55 pm

Great suggestions! Quebec is definitely my favourite province.

March 18, 2022 at 2:22 pm

And the food scene is incredible in Montreal 🙂

April 2, 2022 at 6:50 am

Looking forward to exploring this post when I have more time! Plan on doing a family trip so and appreciate all this info!

April 14, 2022 at 12:30 am

Being born in Quebec you would think I would go there but alas I haven’t been since I was little. I want to go to Old Montreal

May 4, 2022 at 9:58 pm

Would love to visit Quebec

May 4, 2022 at 10:14 pm

We are planning to go see the whales this summer. Fun to read through some more fun ideas that we may not have thought of.

May 5, 2022 at 11:07 am

Some great ideas. This is one of my most favoruite places to visit.

May 20, 2022 at 7:06 am

Will definitely add to my list!

May 25, 2022 at 10:02 am

Great suggestions! Loved living in Montreal and exploring the province. Will definitely see some of these highlights on next visit back

May 25, 2022 at 9:48 pm

This was one of my favorite places in Canada to see! So much good food!

June 5, 2022 at 10:00 pm

So many great suggestions. Hopefully I can visit it one day with my family.

May 28, 2022 at 9:03 pm

I am from Quebec but left as a child. I would love to explore more now as an adult!

June 5, 2022 at 9:56 pm

Looking forward to visiting Quebec. This looks like a concise guide! Thanks!

September 4, 2022 at 7:27 am

Been to Quebec many times. In fact we had out honeymoon in Quebec City. Always stay at Le Bonne Entente whenever we’re on vacation there. Recommend going there in the fall.

December 18, 2022 at 8:51 pm

Just one point for you Matthew: you really should look at the camera LENS. It would make you much more present in the videos. Good job, otherwise! Keep up!

December 19, 2022 at 9:54 am

Thanks. Yeah, we did the first series more like a documentary but since then we do the more like vlogs.

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The 27 Best Things to do in Quebec City

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 11, 2024

If there is one place in North America that truly feels like a little slice of Europe, it is Quebec City. French explorer Samuel De Champlain established the first European settlement in Old Québec in the 17th Century and it has held onto its strong French traditions and heritage making it one of the best places to visit in Canada .

Things to do in Québec City, Canada

Be it winter or summer there are many things to do in Quebec City to enchant and delight any travel lover. This city is rich with history and culture, adventure, and fun. We have taken many a trip to Quebec dating all the way back to our high school French class trips to later in life where we could truly appreciate exploring the winding cobblestone streets of Old Québec to dining at chic French cafes with fine wine.

From our past experiences and help from our team, we’ve put together ideas for the best things to do in Quebec City to help you plan your trip.

Get acquainted with Quebec City on this Quebec City Tour. This 2-hour tour takes you to the ramparts, the Château Frontenac, Place Royale, and much more as you learn of the history, and culture of Quebec City. Easy cancellation within 24 hours in advance of the tour.

1. Stroll Through Old Québec – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Once the capital of New France, Old Québec has 400 years of history sitting inside its city walls and is a must-see when visiting Quebec City. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quebec is the only walled city north of Mexico.

From medieval-style walls that encircle the historic buildings to its charming European vibe, a visit to the first permanent French settlement in Canada is like a step back in time. Many of the historic attractions in Quebec City sit within these two areas and tell a story of not just the city’s history but also Canadian history.

2. le château frontenac

Some say Château Frontenac is the most photographed hotel in the world and for good reason. The giant Fairmont Hotel Chateau Frontenac was built by the Canadian National Railway in 1893 to encourage luxury travel on its trains and its design took inspiration from old French castles. Le Château Frontenac sits inside the walls of the old city and overlooks the Saint Lawrence River.

Although The Château Frontenac has modern conveniences, old-world glamour can be found at every turn with period pieces against a mahogany backdrop. If you are not staying at the Chateau Frontenac, take a tour to walk the halls of Canada’s most historic hotel. Learn of the famous people that have graced its halls and learn about its history. More details here.

3. Notre Dame de Québec Basilica – Cathedral

First built in 1647, the Notre Dame de Québec Basilica Cathedral is one of Quebec City’s most popular landmarks. It’s history is long and storied with it being destroyed and rebuilt twice in the 1700s and again in 1922. In 1923 a crypt was added for its bishops, archbishops and cardinals.

This Basilica houses one of seven holy doors in the entire world and it is the only holy door outside of Europe. The door was inaugurated at the time of its 350th anniversary. A Holy Door is kept sealed and only opened during holy years. The next opening is set for December 8, 2023.

4. Old City Walls and Fortifications

To get an up-close-and-personal look at the historic buildings, visit the Fortifications de Québec National Historic Site. The site is made up of Dufferin Terrace, Dauphine Redoubt, Montmorency Park, and the Governor’s Garden. Vieux-Québec is one of the most historic places in North America with many of its structures dating back to the 17th century. The fortifications are 4.6 kilometers (2.8 miles) in length and you can walk on the ramparts themselves.

From here you get a view of the picturesque lower town and the busy harbor below. The gates of the fortification are located at St. Louis Gate, Kent Gate, and Saint John Gate. You can book a guided tour through Parks Canada that will let you enter places that the general public can’t see.

5. Dauphin Redoubt

If you want more military history, head to the Dauphin Redoubt. The guided Parks Canada tour stops here at this heritage building for an insider’s look at military living. It is one of the oldest military buildings in North America dating back to 1712. Inside you’ll get a chance to see how the soldiers lived by touring through the building and seeing their quarters, chambers, kitchen, and mess hall. 

6. Notre Dame des Victoires

While strolling around Old Town, make sure to visit Notre-Dame-des-Victoires. This small Roman Catholic stone church was constructed in 1687 on the site of Champlain’s home. It was completed in 1723 and is one of the oldest stone churches in North America. It’s very picturesque and worth popping into.

Book this Old City Walking Tour – This two-hour grand walking tour of Old Town takes you to the top attractions including Notre Dame de Victoires Church, Place Royale, City Hall, Notre Dame Basilica, and much more.

7. Plains of Abraham

When you visit Québec City, you must also go to the Plains of Abraham Museum. It is the gateway to the historic destination offering exhibits from the Seige of Quebec from 1759-1760. After visiting the museum, visit Battlefields Park to see the Plains of Abraham. Located on the Saint Lawrence River, this area was where the British Army and Royal Navy fought against the French Army. The park itself spans 242 acres with walking trails, monuments, a Martello Tower , and an on site museum. This is a great place to stroll and learn about Quebec and Canada’s history.

8. Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec

Located in the Plains of Abraham, the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec is a complex that displays the history of Quebec art from the 17th century to the modern-day. There are four pavilions to visit housing different collections from contemporary art, Inuit Art, design, and decorative arts.

9. Musée de la Civilisation

The Musée de la Civilisation sits in the old town near the St. Lawrence River. It was established in the 1960s and hosts numerous exhibitions dedicated to the human condition. You can visit exhibitions dedicated to the Maya Civilization as well as Canada’s ancient fishing heritage. A special exhibition is also dedicated to Canada’s indigenous cultures, which provides a true glimpse of Canada’s pre-colonial times. These exhibitions take you on a tour of ancient customs and art that make up the fabric of what it means to be Canadian. 

10. Observatoire de la Capitale

Are you looking for the best view in Québec City? Observatoire de la Capitale is located on the 31st floor of Marie-Guyart building. It offers panoramic views of the entire city, The St. Lawrence Seaway, Ile d’ Orleans , and the Plains of Abraham. It may only be 31 stories high, but Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so there are height limits for buildings, making this the highest viewpoint in the city.

11. Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec

You can take the funicular system from near the gorgeous little plaza at Place Royale in the Lower Town all the way up the top of Cap Diamant. Alternatively, you can take the stairs between the upper and lower parts. Today, Place Royale is a medieval-looking square that houses numerous restaurants and cafes. The funicular takes you up and down the cliff at a 45-degree angle where you can ride to the upper level to Dufferin Terrace to visit the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

12. Saint Lawrence River

The Saint Lawrence River is part of the fabric of Quebec City and is the gateway for importing and exporting goods into North America. The Saint Lawrence connects Lake Ontario to the Atlantic Ocean so you’ll see all kinds of boat traffic on it during the warmer months where you can take a sunset evening cruise or hop on the ferry from Old Québec over to Levi. (We’ve even been scuba diving in the St. Lawrence River.)

13. Watersports at Beauport Bay

If you want to go swimming or take part in some water sports, you can head to Beauport Bay. The bay is just minutes by car from the old town. There is a beach, with a restaurant and bar and you can relax for the day by the water free from river traffic. You can paddleboard, windsurf or just laze around on the water if you want. There are play areas for kids as well as a biking trail nearby.  

14. Take a Food Tour

You cannot go to Quebec City without getting a taste of delicious French Canadian food. There is usually no better way to get to know a city’s culture than by understanding its food. If Quebec is known for one thing, it’s got to be for poutine. This quintessential Quebec treat is made of crispy french fries topped with gravy and cheese curds and you can find it all over the city. This Old Quebec City Food Tour lets you sample local cuisines at five different venues

Another famous French Canadian dish is sugar pie. Tarte Au Sucre (Sugar pie) is a pie crust filled with a combination of maple syrup, butter, and cream. Aux Anciens Canadiens in old Québec City has a yummy version, but most self-respecting Quebec City versions will have a good one too. Head to Quartier Petit Champlain if you want to taste some of Quebec’s finer fare.

15. Downtown Quebec City

Downtown Québec City is filled with restaurants, museums, markets, and shops. Although there are no absolute defining boundaries, you’ll discover that the downtown of Quebec City sits partly in Old Town within the walls and partly outside of it in the neighborhood of Saint  Jean Baptiste.

First off, you’re going to absolutely fall in love with the aesthetics as it’s a hilly area filled with cute little houses in all colors of the rainbow. And right smack dab in the middle of it all is Québec City’s main shopping street. Rue Saint-Jean.

16. Rue Saint-Jean

From exquisite chocolates to bakeries and fresh grocers, the street is filled with shoppers all day. When the sun goes down, this is the place to be for dinner and drinks. The area has high-end restaurants where you can get oysters on ice, or if you’re looking for something more relaxed, you can head to a local microbrewery. And if you’re looking for Parisian vibes, you’ll find many a cafe for that in this area as well.

17. Quartier Petit Champlain

In Quartier Petit Champlain sits Rue Petit Champlain, which is the oldest commercial street in North America. On that street are some of the region’s finest restaurants and cafes. There you will be served French specialties like rabbit, duck, and lamb cooked in the traditional French way.

A great way to get a real flavor of French Canadian food is by taking a walking tour dedicated to food. These food tours will take you to distinct food regions of Quebec City. Spending an afternoon tasting craft brews, ice wine, fancy cheeses, locally-cured meats is definitely one of the best things ways to visit Quebec city. Read more: Best Canadian Food to Try in Canada

18. Montmorency Falls

It’s 30 meters taller than Niagara Falls but gets less than half the visitors, Montmorency Falls is a bit of a local secret. It sits just a few minute’s drive outside of Quebec City near Beauport. They are part of the Montmorency Falls Park system and you can access them via steps from a number of entrances.

There is also a suspension bridge that gets you very close to the falls and lets you move from one side of the park to the other. Although people think it’s one falls, Montmorency Falls is actually made up of three separate falls.

19. Île D’Orléans

A visit to Île D’Orleans takes you to some of the most picturesque villages in Quebec. This large island makes for a great day trip from Québec City where you can enjoy the rural landscape. Artisans have set up shop here with plenty of things to see scattered throughout the island. Visit a vineyard or microbrewery and enjoy fine French cheese or a stop at a chocolate factory. Make sure to stop to take in the view of the lavender fields of the Grand Jardins.

20. Basílica Sainte Anne de Beaupré

Located 20 minutes outside the city centre is the historic pilgrimage site of Basílica Sainte Anne de Beaupré. Millions of visitors arrive annually to visit the shrine of Sainte Anne de Beaupré. Even if you aren’t visiting to see the shrine of the Grandmother of Jesus, it is worth visiting to see its stained glass windows, mosaics, and works of art.

This highly rated tour takes you to Montmorency Falls, the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, and a tour of the Island of Orleans where you’ll discover rural Quebec with an experienced guide that also includes stops at an art studio, chocolate shop

Winter Trip to Quebec City

Some of the best things to do in Quebec happen in the winter months. From tobogganing to Carnivale a visit to Quebec City is a trip you’ll never forget. So let’s look into some of the best winter activities in Quebec.

21. Tobogganing

Tobogganing in Quebec is one of the top things to do in the city in Winter. Now, this isn’t your average tobogganing adventure. This is tobogganing down Cap Diamant at up to 70 kilometers an hour. 

The wooden toboggan slide was built in 1894 on Dufferin Terrace. There are side-by-side tracks that make for some fun competition while you’re out there. And you also get beautiful views of the river.

22. Bonhomme Carnival Winter Carnival

One of the berst things you can only enjoy in the winter in Quebec City is the Bonhomme Winter Carnival.  It is the largest winter carnival in the world and brings in thousands of visitors from around the world every year. That’s because Quebec City knows how to truly celebrate the existence of ice and snow. There are a ton of things to see and do at the carnival but one of the best ways to start off is to visit Bonhomme at his ice palace.

Bonhomme is the famous seven-foot snowman that is the mascot of the winter carnival and every year an ice palace is built for him. Here you can meet Bonhomme, tour the palace, and marvel at the detail of the fully furnished ice structure.

Other things to do include watching the canoe races on the frozen St. Lawrence and checking out the massive snow sculptures that sit around the city. Every night there is a parade complete with music, lights, floats, and fun characters. The festival takes place everywhere in February.

23. Sample Maple Taffy

You might want to follow your winter fun up by making your own maple taffy. All you’ll need is snow and maple syrup to do it. 

You can visit any one of the maple sugar shacks that pop up around the city in the winter months to do this activity. Other activities include snow rafting and skiing at one of the local ski resort areas like the famous Mont-Sainte-Anne. 

24. Ice Skating

Ice Skating is a rite of passage in Canada and everyone loves to strap on a pair of skates and get on the ice. There are plenty of skating rinks in Quebec City but there are some that make skating in Quebec more enchanting than in other places in Canada.

Place D’Youville skating rink is located in Old Quebec making you feel as if you are skating in a Norman Rockwell painting with the ramparts of the city wall as its backdrop. We have skated here but sadly we didn’t take a photograph of our time in this lovely setting, so instead, I shared a photo of us on an ice trail which there are plenty of around Quebec City as well.

The Plains of Abraham Skating rink lets you skate with views of St. Lawrence on this National Historic Site. There are plenty of forested skating trails and indoor skating rinks too.

25. Hotel De Glace – Ice Hotel

Most people expect a lot of ice and snow when they visit Canada but they aren’t usually expecting ice hotels. If you visit Quebec City between January and March, you should expect to see (and maybe even stay) at the city’s only ice hotel. The hotel is made of pure ice and snow and in turn, that means that your room will be too. 

Besides the suites of ice, there is also a chapel of ice and slides made of ice you can get childish with. For a little social hour while freezing in low temperatures you can visit the Hotel de Glace ice bar and get some super unique Canadian cocktails to thaw you out. 

You don’t have to stay at the ice hotel to experience it, you can purchase a day pass to visit. There are ice skating trails, an ice slide, and even a snow tubing package you can add to your day trip.

26. Mont Saint Anne

If you love skiing or snowboarding, Mont Saint Anne is less than an hour from Quebec City. We have snowboarded at Mont Saint Anne and it is fantastic. But be warned, it is freezing. You’ll want goggles, face masks and good thermal layers to snowboard or ski here. Located in the heart of the Laurentians, Mont Saint Anne is Quebec City’s outdoor playground. Not only is it popular in the winter, but it is excellent for downhill mountain biking and hiking in the summer. You may also like 15 Top Ski Resorts in Canada For Winter Fun

27. Nordique spa Stoneham

You can visit Quebec’s spas any time of year, but to get the true Scandinavian spa experience, you need to visit in winter. Nordique spa Stoneham is the place to go for an outdoor spa experience near the city. Inside you’ll be treated to eucalyptus-infused steam rooms, and sweltering hot saunas and then you’re expected to head outside and jump into frigid cold pools. It definitely sounds crazy, but you’ll find spas like this everywhere in countries like Finland and Norway. It is believed they increase circulation and help your body get rid of toxins. Read: Nordik Spa Nature – A Guide to Ottawa’s Luxury Spa Escape

You can book your entry ticket in advance to this picturesque spa overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Easy cancellation for full refund if booked within 24 hours advance of experience. Also, easy upgrade to the luxurious premium thermal experience.

Tips for visiting Quebec in Winter

A winter visit to Quebec City requires some planning. Make sure to dress in layers and warm boots. Don’t worry about fashion here, everyone wears snow pants in the winter. And when you pack your boots, make sure to have thick soles to keep your feet from freezing. We always use hot shots to keep our toes and fingers warm as well.

A parka is a great idea to wear with a warm thermal layer underneath an insulating mid layer.

Mittens work better than gloves at keeping your fingers warm and always wear a hat. A balaclava will keep your face protected from the icy cold. Read our full post on 5 Winter Layering Tips to Dress for Extreme Cold Weather

Where to Stay in Old Quebec

• Fairmont Chateau Frontenac – An iconic Canadian hotel that is a must visit when in Old Quebec. It is the most recognizable city in Quebec and one of Canada’s grandest historic hotels.
• Hotel du Vieux – This historic boutique hotel is located in the heart of Old Quebec and is a favourite amongst visitors to Quebec City. Check for Prices and Availability
• We have also stayed at the Hotel le Concorde overlooking Quebec City, the Plains, and the river. It was a great central location.

About Quebec City

The official language of Quebec City is French, but you do not need to speak French to visit Quebec City. You will be able to get by without it however, the Quebecois do appreciate you trying, so at least try to learn some basics. Old Quebec is divided into The Upper Town and Lower Town (Haute Ville and Basse-Ville)

How to Get to Quebec City

The airport for Quebec City is the Jean Lesage International Airport located 16 km from downtown Quebec. Airport Code YQB. There are direct flights from major Canadian and US Cities cities to Quebec.

You can take a taxi or bus to downtown. The Bus is operated by RTC Quebec.

We have taken the train to Québec City and a great way to travel between Canadian cities. VIA Rail Canada has daily service between Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal , and Québec City.

And these are the best things to do in Quebec City. Have you been to North America’s most European City? What did we miss and what should we do the next time we visit?

Read more about Quebec and Canada Travel

• Top Things to do in Ottawa
• Where to Stay in Montreal – A Guide To The Best Places and Neighborhoods
• 14 Beautiful and Best Cities in Canada
• 52 Things to do in Canada – For the Ultimate Adventures
• Canada Winter Activities You Just Cannot Miss!
• 25 Best Things to do in Mont Tremblant, Quebec

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

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2 thoughts on “The 27 Best Things to do in Quebec City”

One of my friend live in quebec and he tells me about the place he visits.

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Quebec City Travel Guide

For travelers keen on a European getaway without a flight across the Atlantic, Quebec City offers the charms of a French or Swiss destination. What's more, you'll hear enough French in Quebec City to get a taste of that European language barrier. A much smaller city than Montreal—which has four million residents—Quebec City's intimate, old town-chic atmosphere is extremely appealing to travelers. It's a metropolis that's more akin to Geneva, Switzerland or Nice, France than to London or New York City. Known for its history and architecture, Quebec City is beyond picturesque and feels authentically Qu é becois . Here, everything you need to know about the capital of Canada's French-speaking province, from the culinary scene and points of interest to the best events in this idyllic city.

Eastern Standard Time

Best Time to Go

From a weather perspective, you're going to be chilly in Quebec City in the winter (with temperatures firmly in the 20s or below). Nonetheless, it's a picturesque time to visit. The summer and fall months are much more temperate. Spring is still cold with a fair amount of precipitation.

Quebec City's annual Carnaval de Quebec is held in February. The festival dates back to the late 1800s and is one of Quebec City's biggest attractions.

In January, the Hôtel de Glace opens, which is not only a spectacle but the perfect time to spend a night at the Ice Hotel.

In April, Quebec City hosts a charming book fair, which is locally referred to as Salon International du Livre de Québec .

Quebec is known for hosting both food and comedy festivals—with both Montreal and Quebec City offering events for gourmands and comedy enthusiasts. Quebec's gourmet festivals are in May (Festival Québec Exquis!) and November (Québec Gourmet Table) and their ComediHa! Fest-Québec is in August.

Things to Know

When we say Quebec City is known for their architecture, we mean it. It's the only walled city (on this continent) north of Mexico.

Just like many classic European destinations, Quebec City has an important river that runs through the metropolis: the St. Lawrence River.

They speak both French and English in Quebec, though keep in mind that French dominates some parts of the city. The French spoken in Quebec City and Montreal—often referred to as Québecois French—is slightly different from French spoken in France.

Old Quebec is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Quebec City is known for its charming, European-esque cobblestone streets and the renowned Château Frontenac , which is now a Fairmont hotel.

Currency: Canadian Dollar

(Check the current exchange rate )

Calling Code: +1

How to Get Around

Buses : The local bus transportation network in Quebec City is called the Réseau de Transport de la Capitale (RTC). This is the main form of public transportation in Quebec City and is well-run. One ride costs $3.50 (cash) or $3.20 (with ticket) and a one-day pass is $8.85.

Taxis : You can find taxis at the airport and major hotels in Quebec City. You can also call a local taxi company like Taxi Laurier .

Car service : Uber is available in Quebec City.

Best Hotels

Fairmont château frontenac.

Address: 1 rue des Carrières CITQ No. 040703, Québec City, Quebec G1R 4P5 Phone: 418-692-3861 Website

The Fairmont Château Frontenac is a Quebec icon. The hotel offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the Old Fortified City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each of the 610 guest rooms is flush with luxury accommodations to ensure a relaxing stay. Visitors can stop into the Château Frontenac's Moment Spa for a blissful massage or facial. This historic hotel also offers tours of its grandeur to those unable to stay on the property.

Hôtel de Glace

Address: 2280 Bd Valcartier, Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier, QC G0A 4S0, Canada Phone: 418-844-2200 Website

The Hôtel de Glace opens annually through the winters and is the only ice hotel in North America. Made entirely of ice, right down to the cocktail glasses in the bar, staying at the Hôtel de Glace is a truly memorable experience. Guests can warm up in a selection of hot tubs or saunas with a view of the starry night sky.

Auberge Saint-Antoine

Address: 8 Rue Saint-Antoine, Québec, QC G1K 4C9, Canada Phone: 418-692-2211 Website

In the heart of Quebec City, you'll find the historic Auberge Saint-Antoine, which offers guests easy access to city activities and beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River. The Auberge Saint-Antoine extends through three buildings from the 17th and 18th century and was built on an archaeological site. Guests can find a selection of artifacts throughout the rooms and must stop into Bar Artefact for an imaginative cocktail.

Hotel Le Germain

Address: 126 St-Pierre Street, Quebec, Quebec, G1K 4A8 Phone: 418-692-2224 Website

Located in the Old Port, the Hotel Le Germain is in an excellent location for exploring all that Quebec City has to offer. Offering amenities like 24-hour gym access, in-room Nespresso machines, and a continental breakfast, this hotel has something for everyone—plus, it's pet-friendly

L'Hôtel du Capitole

Address: 972, rue Saint-Jean, Québec (Québec) G1R 1R5 Phone: 418-694-4040 Website

Centrally located in downtown Quebec City, L'Hôtel du Capitole's 108 guest rooms allow guests to enjoy the city in ultimate comfort. From the reception desk on the seventh floor guests can take in panoramic views of Old Quebec. Amenities include a pool on the ninth floor, a state-of-the-art fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and on-site laundry.

Best Restaurants

Le lapin saute.

Address: 52 rue du Petit-Champlain, Québec (Québec) Website

In the Quartier Petit Champlain, Le Lapin Saute is a charming spot featuring some of the best rabbit in the city. During the winter months, Le Lapin Saute seats 32 diners with a cozy, fireside ambiance. In the summer there's additional seating on the breezy terrace. Stop in for rabbit poutine or one of the delightful cassoulets. Reservations are recommended but not required.

Restaurant Le Continental

Address: 26 rue St-Louis, Vieux-Québec, Québec, G1R 3Y9 Phone: 418-694-9995 Website

Dining at Restaurant Le Continental is a feast for your eyes and your palette, as experienced staff offer table-side caesar salad, chateaubriand, and carved duck. Traditional French cuisine shines at Le Continental—consider finishing your meal with their divine take on a crepe suzette. An extensive wine list with French, Italian, and American wines pairs effortlessly with the menu.

Address: 519, 3e Avenue Québec, Qc G1l 2w4 Phone: 581-742-4202 Website

Diners at Arvi can expect a theatrical dinner that does not disappoint. Arvi uses seasonal produce to create two five-course tasting menus (one vegetarian-friendly). The open-air concept virtually eliminates the barrier between the dining room and the kitchen, so guests can experience the thrill of watching the food on its journey from kitchen to table. Oh, and the same chefs that cooked the food, also deliver it to the eagerly waiting diners. With 30 seats, reservations are recommended.

La Korrigane

Address: 380, Dorchester Street Québec (Qc) G1K 6A7 Phone: 418-614-0932 Website

La Korrigane brews small-batch artisanal beer in-house. Stop in for a pint of their Black Kraken or Saison, brewed with seasonal fruit. When it comes to food, La Korrigane is serving up delicious, light, seasonal dishes prepared with local, seasonal ingredients. Reservations are available for parties up to four. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.

Le Pied Bleu

Address: 179 Rue Saint-Vallier O, Quebec, QC G1K 1J9 Phone: 418 914-3554 Website

The atmosphere at Le Pied Blue is welcoming, warm, and positively homey. Their specialty is charcuterie and meats, with award-winning blood sausage. Stop by for brunch, lunch, or dinner, or select a few items for take out. They're also serving up cocktails and a diverse wine list.

Things to Do

La citadelle de quebec.

Address: 2, rue D'Auteuil, Quebec City, Quebec G1R 5C2 Phone: (418) 648-7016 Website

Quebec City is one of the last remaining fortified cities in North America and Touring La Citadelle de Quebec allows guests to uncover nearly 300 years of Canadian history. This historic site is an active military base. Visitors can explore the site's intrigue via guided tours and through the on-site Musée Royal 22e Régiment.

Musée de la Civilisation

Address: 85, Rue Dalhousie, Quebec City (Québec) G1K 8R2 Phone: 418-643-2158 Website

Situated in Old Quebec, the Musée de la Civilisation was originally developed to create and promote French history. The museum features a blend of permanent and temporary exhibits on both contemporary and historical topics. Visitors can explore a variety of interactive exhibits to illustrate a connection between the past and present.

Roger-Van den Hende Botanical Garden

Address: 2480 Boulevard Hochelaga, Quebec City, Quebec G1V 0A6 Phone: (418) 656-3742 Website

The Roger-Van den Hende Botanical Garden, located at Laval University, is an affordable delight in the city. Free, with a suggested donation of just $2, visitors can enjoy a variety of botanicals and plant life. The garden is a living laboratory for students and researchers at the university, and it's home to a variety of environments including a water garden, composting site, and rose garden. Guided tours are offered for groups of 10 or more ($5 per person).

Île d'Orleans

Phone: 866-941-9411 Website

Île d'Orleans, an island in the middle of the St. Lawrence River, is a delightful retreat for tourists and Quebec locals alike. The island is a designated historic area and has an abundance of fresh, island-grown produce that supply markets and stalls lining the city streets. Enjoy scenic walking paths, farm-to-table restaurants, and quaint shops and galleries featuring the work of local artists.

Best Shopping

Quartier petit champlain.

Take a walk through Quartier Petit Champlain and admire the work of local artists and artisans. Rue de Petit Champlain is one of the oldest pedestrian shopping streets in North America and is home to unique boutiques and adorable restaurants perfect for a leisurely lunch if you're in need of a shopping respite.

Place Ste-Foy

Address: 2450, boulevard Laurier, Québec, QC, G1V 2L1 Phone: 418-653-4184 Website

Head over to Place Ste-Foy to shop luxury brands in Quebec City. Interested in some personalized fashion advice? Set up an appointment with a stylist for a guided shopping experience.

Address: 35 1/2, rue du Petit-Champlain, Québec, Québec, G1K 4H5 Phone: 418-914-9933 Website

Pop into Martino, located in the Petit Champlain district of the city, for some well-crafted moccasins, boots, and more. The shoes are handmade and available for children, men, and women.

Le Grand Marché Quebec

Address: 250, boulevard Wilfrid-Hamel, Québec City, Québec G1L 5A7 Parking Lot P4 Phone: 418-692- 2517 Website

Food purveyors, artisans, and farmers gather at Le Grand Marché Quebec filling the stalls with seasonal delicacies. Stroll through the market to find meats, cheese, artisanal pastries and baked goods, wine, spirits, and so much more. Le Grand Marché is just minutes from Quebec's city center and is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transport.

Galeries de la Capitale

Address: 5401, Boul. des Galeries, Québec, QC G2K 1N4 Phone: 418-627-5800 Website

Head over to Galeries de la Capitale for world-class shopping. The shopping center is also home to Eastern Canada's largest indoor amusement park, le Mega-Parc.

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Neighborhoods to Know

Old Quebec: Called Vieux-Québec in French, this historic neighborhood of Quebec is encircled by nearly three miles of fortifications. Visitors love the stone walls, rolling hills on which locals laze in the summer, and of course, the crowning jewel of Vieux-Québec, Château Frontenac.

Saint-Jean-Baptiste: A Boho-chic neighborhood with hipster vibes, Saint-Jean has art galleries and cafes lining its cobblestone streets. The neighborhood is also home to the legendary Breakneck Stairs — the city's oldest staircase, built in 1635 and comprising 59 steep stairs.

Montcalm: This neighborhood is home to attractions like Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec, but it's also fairly residential. You'll find charming art galleries and nice restaurants in Montcalm, as well as the must-visit Avenue Cartier.

Saint-Roch: One of the haute downtown districts in Quebec City, Saint-Roch has been revitalized over the last decade. Tourists now flock to Saint-Roch for their excellent boutique shopping, charming cafes, and must-try restaurants like Le Clocher Penché.

Winter: Spoilers—winter in Quebec City is cold. You'll see lows under 10 F in January and February, and winter highs of 33 F. You should expect December, January, February, and March temperatures to hover in the 20s (Fahrenheit) with a fair bit of snowfall each month.

Spring: Spring thaws Quebec City, but temperatures aren't necessarily warm. You'll still get temperatures in the 30s in April and 40s in May. However, the highs can reach up to 60 in May. You'll see a significant amount of precipitation in the spring.

Summer: With temperatures climbing to the high 70s, summer is lovely in Quebec City. The city still sees rain in the summer, but the warmth lasts through the end of August and is a welcome treat for locals and tourists alike.

Fall: September and October are a delight in Quebec City, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s and turning leaves lining the cobblestone streets. By November, temperatures dip as low as 29 F.

Apps to Download

Uber : Rideshare servicing Quebec City iOS | Android

Quebec City RTC : Bus schedules, routes, live updates iOS | Android

Quebec City Maps and Walks : Self-guided walking tours of the metropolis iOS | Android

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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 15 Best Things to Do in Quebec (Quebec, Canada)

15 Best Things to Do in Quebec (Quebec, Canada)

The capital city of Canada’s Quebec province, Quebec City is a beautiful destination that is filled with history, culture and magnificent architecture. The area surrounding the city is also spectacular, overlooking the St. Lawrence River with the Laurentian Mountains in the background to the north.

Quebec City has always been one of Canada’s top tourist destinations, what with its Old Town, Parisian-like charm and great festivals. It is a place for romance, families and solo travellers, with something to offer everyone. It is a fantastic city, with loads to do, however these are the 15 best things to do in Quebec.

1. Go back in time

Old Quebec is home to North America’s only remaining fortified city walls. It is also home to the oldest military building in Canada; La Citadelle.

This historic neighbourhood was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It is split into two areas; Upper Town and Lower Town.

Upper Town is the main tourist area, home to the famous Château Frontenac, Hotel-Dieu de Québec, the Séminaire de Québec and the Ursulines Convent. Lower Town is where you will find Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, Place de Paris and Gare du Palais.

2. Wander around a prison

The 200 year old Morrin Centre was Quebec City’s first ever prison. Today it is a museum and a learning centre, and is home to the city’s only English library.

The Morrin Centre is a National Historic Site of Canada, as it dates back to 1712. The former prison was once home to the city’s first Anglophone institute of higher education, while today it houses the Literary and Historical Society of Quebec.

Take a tour of the buildings and explore the jail cells, including those used for inmates on death row and in isolation. You will also be taken to the chemistry lab of the historic college and will learn about the charming Victorian library.

3. Relax in a park

But not just any park; the Battlefields Park. This historic park is home to the Plains of Abraham, which is where the Battle of the Plains of Abraham took place.

Battlefields Park is home to around 50 historical artillery pieces, including the four Martello towers. These towers were built by the British to stop Americans from entering the old city walls.

Today, the Plains of Abraham is used as the park’s main exhibition area, where festivals, outdoor concerts and sports events take place. It is also just a nice place to relax.

4. Visit parliament

The eight-storey Parliament Building is a stunning building that dates back to 1877. The Second Empire architectural style building features a frontal tower that stands at 52 metres tall.

The Parliament Building sits on Parliament Hill, just outside of the old city walls. There are some lovely sculptures of important people in Quebec’s history in front of the building and around its lovely gardens.

Free guided tours are available that detail the history of Quebec’s government and of the building itself. You can also wander around the beautiful gardens.

5. Go to church

Sitting just east of the city along the Saint Lawrence River is the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, a beautiful Romanesque revival basilica. When the church was first built it was done so to honour Saint Anne.

Today, the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré is an important Catholic church that is visited by millions of pilgrims each year. Because of this, it has been designated as a Patrimoine culturel du Québec.

The basilica is said to cure the sick and disabled. Whether or not that is true is something that you can find out for yourself. Or you can just go to see the shrine of Saint Anne and to admire the architecture, frescoes and hand-made copper doors.

6. Explore one of North America’s oldest communities

The narrow streets, steps and postcard village feeling makes the Petit-Champlain district stand out amongst the rest. It also happens to be one of North America’s oldest commercial enclaves.

Explore the neighbourhood and all of its glory. Small boutiques shops and bistros line the cobblestone streets, most of which are housed in refurbished historic buildings. It is a romantic neighbourhood, with a European charm.

Petit-Champlain sits at the bottom of Cap Diamant. The Breakneck Stairs is one of its key landmarks, which is the oldest staircase in the city.

7. Snap photos of a waterfall

Montmorency Falls sits around 12 kilometres outside of Quebec City. The 84 metre high waterfall is one of the city’s top attractions, even though it isn’t actually in the city proper.

The falls are the largest in all of Quebec, dropping over a cliff into the Saint Lawrence River. There are several staircases surrounding the falls where you can take photos and admire the beauty of it.

In the summer, the falls let off a yellow glow as a result of the high iron content. As well, the summer is a great time to visit due to the fireworks competition that takes place right in front of it, which is truly spectacular.

8. Walk around a castle

Although Château Frontenac is within Old Quebec, it is also an attraction in its own right. In fact, the magnificent castle is the world’s most photographed hotel.

The 611 room hotel was designed by American architect Bruce Price and opened its doors in 1893. In 1980, it was designated as a National Historic Site of Canada.

You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy its splendour. Anyone can dine in one of its elegant restaurants or sip a glass of wine in its bar. It also has a fantastic spa. You can also just admire the building from the outside, which is particularly beautiful when it is lit up at night.

9. Look at marine life

The 16-hecatre Aquarium du Québec is home to over 10,000 animals of 300 species. The aquarium first opened in 1953 as a marine biology centre, but today it is a public aquarium with gardens, pools and several exhibits.

The Aquarium du Québec has both indoor and outdoor areas, each of which is separated into different exhibits. There are four areas indoors; Awesome Ocean and its 350,000 litre water tank, Discover the Coastal Zone, Fresh & Salt Water and Scientific Crossroads.

The outdoor area of the aquarium has three sections, with The Arctic Sector being the most popular. Here, you can see seals, polar bears and walruses both above the water and in it through an underwater glass view.

10. Enjoy a festival

There are three famous festivals that take place in Quebec City each year; Winter Carnival, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day and the Quebec City Summer Festival. There are also others, but these are the biggest and most popular.

Winter Carnival takes place in February and is best known for its International Ice Sculpture Competition. Close to one million people come to the festival each year, making it one of the world’s largest winter festivals.

Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day is celebrated on June 23rd and 24th to celebrate French Canadian culture. Around one week later is the Quebec City Summer Festival, which is a music festival that attracts millions each year, with past musicians performing that include Peter Gabriel, Snoop Dogg, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Queens of the Stone Age and Sting.

11. Go skiing

If you are visiting Quebec in the winter, there is no excuse for not going skiing. Mont-Sainte-Anne is just 40 kilometres northeast of the city, boasting 71 different trails.

The ski resort has trails on three sides of the mountain, 19 of which are open for night skiing. Runs range from easy to extreme, and are great for skiing and snowboarding.

If skiing is not your thing, you can go sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, tubing or even dog sledding. Mont-Sainte-Anne also happens to be Canada’s largest cross-country ski centre.

12. Gaze at art

There are over 35,000 works of art at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec), most of which are made by Quebec artists. Some artwork displayed at the gallery dates all the way back to the 18th century.

The museum was established in 1933 and is located on the Plains of Abraham. Since then, the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec has hosted numerous exhibits, including Treasures of Tutankhamun, Rodin in Québec and Le Louvre in Québec.

Wander around the museum and gaze at the artwork within it. Get more in-depth information by going on a guided tour, or take it one step further and join a workshop.

13. Walk along a famous street

The Grande Allée is one of the city’s most famous streets; running parallel to the Saint Lawrence River. It is a lovely street that is lined with restaurants, stunning architecture and the Parc de la Francophonie.

This street was once the only one in Quebec City and was used by fur traders that lived outside of the city, which is today Old Quebec. It runs from east to west, linking the old town with the Cap-Rouge district in the west.

Some notable buildings found on the Grande Allée include House of Louis St-Laurent, Henry-Stuart House and Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec.

14. Ride a ferry

Jump on a ferry and ride across the Saint Lawrence river from Quebec City to Levis. The ferry accommodates passengers, bicycles and even cars.

Crossing the river is not the main draw of this ferry ride; the spectacular scenery is. Some fantastic views of Old Quebec and Cap-Diamant can be seen when taking this journey.

There are restaurants, bars and concert halls on either side of the river near the piers. In the summertime, take a bicycle across to ride along the marked path at Parcours des Anses.

15. Enjoy the views

The observatory on the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building is by far the best place to enjoy views of the city. The 360-degree observatory even offers views stretching as far as Levis, Île d’Orléans and the surrounding countryside

The skyscraper is an office tower, though the 31st floor is open to the public. Here, views of the city and beyond can be seen from 221 metres above sea level.

Observatoire de la Capitale, as it is called, features large floor-to-ceiling windows around the entire building, giving you a view from all angles. It is the highest building in Quebec City, towering over Parliament Hill.

15 Best Things to Do in Quebec (Quebec, Canada):

• Go back in time
• Wander around a prison
• Relax in a park
• Visit parliament
• Go to church
• Explore one of North America’s oldest communities
• Snap photos of a waterfall
• Walk around a castle
• Look at marine life
• Enjoy a festival
• Gaze at art
• Walk along a famous street
• Ride a ferry
• Enjoy the views

40 Things To Do In Quebec City: Top Attractions To Hidden Gems

Posted on Published: December 2, 2022  - Last updated: April 3, 2024

Categories North America , Québec , Travel

Don’t know what to do in Quebec City? Well you’ve come to the right place.

I used to think there wasn’t much to do in Quebec City, but after living there for a month my perspective completely changed. I mean there’s just so so much rich history to discover here. I’m still discovering new things to do in Quebec City today – it’s unreal how much there actually is to do in this city!

So are you ready for the biggest list of things to do in Quebec City you’ve ever seen!? Here’s all the things to do in Quebec City from the main attractions all the way to hidden gems.

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

How Long To Stay In Quebec City Canada

As I said, Quebec City is small. Typically, it’s recommended to visit for only a day or two – and that’s how I’ve visited Quebec City Canada in the past.

And one or two days is realistically more than enough time to visit all the main Quebec City activities. Like seeing Old Quebec, the citadel, walking along the Plains of Abraham and even going to a museum.

But, if you really want to explore Quebec City, and delve deeper into it’s history by going on an easy day trip, then there’s more than enough to do for up to 3 or even 4 days !

Decide how many Quebec City activities you’re interested in doing to see how many days you’ll need.

The Top 12 Things To Do In Quebec City

If you’re visiting Quebec City Canada for the first time, or have a limited time to explore, here are the top things to do in Quebec City!

1. Go On A Walking Tour Of Old Quebec

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – walking tours are the best thing to do in any new city, and Quebec City is no exception!

It’s a great way to find out the history of Quebec City, and visit all the main locations on this list. It’s kind of like a cheat code to Old Quebec highlights.

Unfortunately, there aren’t free walking tours but we loved our tour from the Quebec Tourism Office. We bought the tickets online through Viator .

Quebec City Organized Walking Tours

Book a Quebec City group walking tour with Viator →

Book a private Quebec city walking tour with Viator →

See more Quebec City tours with Viator .

2.Walk Along The Quebec City Walls & See The Old Gates

Old Quebec is the only fortified city in North America north of Mexico where the walls still exist. So that’s a pretty cool reason to visit Quebec on it’s own!

The walls are still in tact because for centuries they were scared that the Americans were going to attack.

You can’t miss the old city walls – it’s 4.6 km long that protects the upper town of Old Quebec.

Although driving or walking by the city walls is cool, you also want to make sure to walk on the city walls themselves – just please be careful! You get some pretty neat views from here (both of Old Quebec, downtown, and the surrounding area).

3. Get Lost In The Streets Of Old Quebec

I hate when a blog just tells me to walk around in the area as a must do. Like, I’m going to be doing that anyway on my way towards places…. But, as much as I hate to say it, in Old Quebec it really is a must do!

There are so many streets in Old Quebec but I find you always end up walking on the same one or two streets.

You never really need to walk anywhere else, mainly because all but four streets actually lead you to a dead end. But just because they lead you to a dead end doesn’t mean you shouldn’t discover them.

Québec City Things To Do: Book A Tour With Viator

Quebec City Walking Tour →

Guided tour of the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec →

Biking tour from Quebec City to Montmorency Falls →

See more Québec City organized tours with Viator .

I mean, the streets in Old Quebec are just beautiful, the buildings are frozen in time. You never know where you’re going to end up and you end up finding some hidden parks or famous homes where some Quebec famous person was born.

If you’re travelling during high season, it’s another way to escape the crowds for a bit to enjoy the city in peace.

4. Walk Along Rue Saint-Jean For Shopping & Coffee

One of the main streets you’ll end up walking on Rue Saint-Jean. It’s hard to miss, it has a lot of shops and restaurants. It will also bring you straight into Old Quebec towards the Frontenac if you follow it.

Quebec City Pro Tip!

Follow Rue Saint-Jean beyond the city gates too! You’ll end up in Place D’Youville which holds festivals like the Christmas market and skating rink in the winter.

Further down the street there’s of course a few more churches and some local restaurants, cafes, and shops to try! It will also be quite a bit less touristy.

See my favourite restaurants in Quebec City .

5. Walk Along Dufferin Terrace

Dufferin Terrace is the English influence in Quebec City. Notice the Gazebos all named after British Royalty? These are actual band stands as they’re known in England… but we’re not fancy enough here to call them that!

Dufferin Terrace is all about views: the view across the St. Lawrence River towards Levis and Ile D’Orleans, the view of the citadel, and of course the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.

Visiting In The Winter?

If you’re lucky you might be able to go on the oldest attraction in Quebec City: the Ice Slide ! This tradition is actual from 1884 when they needed to still convince people to visit during the winter time.

Although it’s shorter than it used to be (it used to go to the end of the boardwalk!) it’s still fun to ride!

The ice slide typically opens in December, but it’s weather dependant.

P.S. Thinking of visiting Quebec City in winer? Read my post on what it’s really like .

6. Admire The Fairmont Chateau Frontenac (& Go On A Tour)

The Chateau Frontenac is skyline view of Quebec City. It’s the focal point of everything in Quebec City, could you ever imagine the skyline without it? Needless to say, it’s one of the main Quebec City activities.

The original building is from 1893 and it was always a hotel – although it was not nearly this grand. In fact, the final building that we see today was only complete in 1993.

Of course you have to make a point to visit it up close! Feel free to even walk inside to see the lobby, go to the restaurant, or even do some shopping.

But, the best way to see and learn more about this famous hotel is to go on a guided tour .

Discover The History Of The Chateau Frontenac

Book Guided tour of the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec with Viator →

7. Walk Down The Breakneck Steps (L’Escalier Casse Cou) Into Petit Champlain

Petit Champlain is the place you’ve been looking for in Old Quebec. You know the small cobblestone streets with the string lights that light up at night? Well, this is it!

You can either get here by paying for the funicular, but the more iconic way is to go down the Break Neck Steps.

They were given their name for the obvious reason – that it will break your neck going down!

Joking! they’re a perfectly normal staircase.

But they’re broken up with platforms to give you a gorgeous view of Petit Champlain. So make sure to not forget your camera when you visit!

It’s more than just a pretty street too, they have a few Quebec restaurants and this is the spot to pick up your locally made souvenir .

8. Discover Lower Town: Place Royale, Spot The Giant Frescos

The other part of lower town that you’re interested in is Place Royale. This is the old town square, where Quebec became well, Quebec!

And what town square isn’t complete without their token church! Notre-Dame-des-Victoires was named after all of Quebec’s battle victories and it’s one of the oldest in North America. You might be able to inside the church, if it’s open.

Around the corner from the town square you’ll find some even older town ruins and a giant fresco. See if you can spot and name the founders of Quebec!

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9. Walk Along The Citadel (& Go On A Tour?)

The Citadel is actually kind of easy to miss in Quebec City Canada… mostly because it was designed to not be seen.

The citadel was built as a city within a city – you could house close to one thousand people inside and it had all the important city amenities. You know, like a hospital, and jail of course!

Today it’s actually still an active army base but they’ve opened it up for guided tours . With your ticket you also get access to the 22 Regiment Museum.

What To Do In Quebec City If You’re Pressed For Time – Tip!

If you’re pressed for time, I recommend skipping the citadel tour and museum . Instead, head to the pedestrian entrance of the Citadel – it will look like a creepy tunnel.

Here, there will be information plaques set up with pretty much all the information you learn on the tour.

To be honest, the inside of the citadel wasn’t as interesting as I thought it would be. You do get a good view of the Fairmont and Dufferin Terrace though.

10. Walk Along The Plains Of Abraham

The Plains of Abraham today is essential a giant park. But with LOADS of history, views, and monuments throughout. This is where the battle took place in 1759 that changed the faith of Quebec when the British beat the French.

Today, you can walk along trails finding the different artillery and viewpoints. Some highlights are the Martello Towers, Joan of Arc Gardens, and Grey Terrace .

If you want more information, you can also head to the Plains of Abraham Museum where they go into more details about life in the 1700s and the wars that happened in Quebec. It’s a very interactive museum, good for kids as well!

What To Do In Quebec City: Plains of Abraham Pro Tip…

The Plains of Abraham are great to simply walk through, but I recommend actually driving through to all the different spots because it’s quite a big park!

There’s an app you can download that shows the points of interest and gives you some more information. Download the My Mobile Plains App .

Or if you’re traveling to Quebec City Canada during high season (summer), you can also sign up for a guided van tour of the Plains through the museum.

11. Try Local Delicacies: A Poutine Or Tortière

I don’t know if I would call Poutine a delicacy but it’s definitely a must try in Quebec City Canada. Fries, cheese curds and gravy to warm it all up – what else can you ask for!?

You can pretty much find this at any Quebec restaurant. If you’re looking for different options though (like vegetarian gravy), head to Poutineville in Place D’Youville just outside the city walls.

Québec City Food Tours

Tour Old Quebec With Food & Drinks →

Tour Old Quebec with 5 Course Gourmet Dinner →

12. Visit Montmorency Falls

Montmorency Falls are kind of a must see if you’re visiting Quebec City Canada. These magnificent falls are only 15 minutes away by car from Old Quebec!

Did you know they’re the tallest falls in Quebec and the 8th tallest falls in Canada!? They’re even taller than Niagara Falls in Ontario by 100 ft!

It’s open all year round, but in the summer there are a few more activities that are offered. You can hike to the top of the falls, zip line, or even take the gondola across the falls!

Quebec City To Montmorency Falls Organized Tours With Viator

If you don’t have a car in Quebec City, don’t worry, Montmorency Falls is the most popular place to visit out of the city. Book one of the top tours below!

Half-Day Trip to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré from Quebec City →

Small Group Excursion of Quebec City and Montmorency Falls →

Some Other Popular Things To Do In Quebec City

If you find yourself with some more time, or it’s your second or third time visiting the city, here’s even more things to do in Quebec City ! These are still quite popular Quebec City attractions, keep reading to discover some hidden gems!

13. Explore The Musee du Fort

Musee du Fort is the museum to go to in Quebec City. Unfortunately it was temporarily closed when we were visiting.

At the museum, it’s all about their light show performance they put on about the battle of the plains of Abraham.

14. Explore An Underground Castle (Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site) (Summer Only!)

Instead of walking along Dufferin Terrace go beneath it! Although the Chateau Frontenac was never actually castle, it was sort of built on one. So there are underground ruins to explore!

The actual Frontenac made his home here and this is where Louis IX built his castle and the original city walls. The ruins are owned by Parks Canada. Unfortunately it’s only open during the summer months.

15. Continue Your Walk Along Les Promenades Des Gouverneur

You might come to the end of Dufferin Terrace and see some stairs and think that it isn’t worth it to walk up all those steps! You’re wrong! This is one of the nicest (and coolest) walks you can do in Quebec City!

The stairs turns into another boardwalk that takes you along the citadel walls. Don’t forget to look behind you for the view at all times. It’s epic to say the least.

You’ll eventually make it to the top which will have the St. Lawerence lookout Gazebo and you’ll actually b in the Plains of Abraham! Go you!

Instead of turning back to return to Old Quebec, you can walk along the Plains of Abraham which will lead you to the Citadel and Old Quebec.

16. Explore The Old Port

The Old Port in Quebec City Canada isn’t exactly pretty, but there are a few attractions that are worth checking out in the area.

Fun facts though, Quebec City’s Old Port was the largest in Canada with 21 shipyards in their hey day!

A popular spot is Café du Monde , a restaurant along the St. Lawerence river with floor to ceiling windows – it’s beautiful to say the least! You can opt to come here just for a coffee with a view, or for a full meal!

If you’re visiting in the summer, you can also head outside to La Cour arrière du Festibière to try local microbrews and dip your feet in the pool. You can even opt to swim in the Old Port at the first harbour bath in North American at Bassin Louise.

Or keep it simple and can pick up food and head to the Place des Canotieres for a picnic in the park (still with gorgeous views!).

17. Go Antique Shopping Along Rue Saint Paul

Rue Saint Paul is probably the final street of Old Quebec part of the Old Port. This area is all about art galleries and antique shops.

Needless to say, if you’re looking for that one of a kind souvenir , this is the place to come. It’s antique shop after antique shop here!

You might also be interested in reading… 10 Special Québec City Souvenirs

18. Go To An Exhibition At The Museum Of Civilization

The museum of Civilization is one of the main museums in Quebec City.

They have permanent exhibits about Quebec, Canada, and First Nations . It’s a good alternative to a walking tour, or if you need something to do inside on a rainy or cold winter day.

You might get lucky with their temporary exhibits – when we were visiting it was all about Poop! You might say gross, but it was actually really interesting and fun to learn about!

Unfortunately though, their second temporary exhibit at the time (all about Pharaohs) was only in French. So double check before buying tickets that it’s bilingual. You might also be able to pay for an English guided tour instead.

19. Learn About Quebec Politics At The National Assembly (A.K.A. Parliament!)

This is probably the only tour I haven’t done in Quebec City Canada, but that’s just because I’m like really not interested in politics. But the National Assembly offers daily tours in English and in French.

If you’re like me though, you can also opt to simply walk around the Parliament finding and admiring all the statues of our prime ministers. If you’re visiting in the summer, they also keep up a beautiful garden!

P.S. can you find the only women in the sea of men! ?

20. Go To The National Museum Of Fine Art Of Quebec

Every city has their token fine arts museum, the Musée National des Beaux Arts du Qu é bec is Quebec City’s.

They have permanent and temporary exhibits with a focus on Canadian and Quebec artists, including a permanent exhibit on Inuit art.

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21. Head To The Observatory For A Full 360° View

Looking for the best view of Quebec City and its surroundings? One of the best places to do that is from the tallest building in the city: the Observatoire de la Capital .

They tried to set up an exhibit with some information about Quebec and some videos… those aren’t worth it and it’s simply just nauseating. If you’re going to come here, just know that it’s a $15 view . There are some seats, so maybe pack some snacks to enjoy the view for a bit!

Although they give you an incredible view, if you want better value for your money , I recommend going to the next place on my list…

22. Revolve Around The City For Drinks: Ciel! Bistro-Bar

Ciel! Bistro-bar is a revolving restaurant a part of the Loews hotel. It’s not as high as the Observatoire de la Capitale but it’s a lot better value for your money – plus it’s open at night!

The food at the restaurant itself is pretty expensive, but the drinks are very reasonably priced… see where I’m going with this!?

Head to Ciel! Bistro-bar for a 360 degree view of the city, an experience at a revolving restaurant, and some good drinks!

If you want to enjoy the view during the day, you can also come here for brunch!

Related Best Restaurants In Quebec City & Quebecois Food To Try

23. Find Hidden Nouvelle France In Lower Town

What I love about this spot is that if you don’t know it exists, you’ll never see it! There are two ways to get to Nouvelle France, one is simply by turning off of Rue Notre Dame. Or you can head through the Passage de la Batterie from Rue Sous-le-Fort.

Passage de la Batterie will bring you through a small tunnel (make sure to watch your head) to an example of Nouvelle France.

Nouvelle France is what Quebec was known as. This is an example of what the street and buildings used to look like. Today, each house can only be owned by a local and cannot be rented out for short term stays. Each apartment has a family name associated with it as well, representing the family that used to live there.

24. Family Fun At The Aquarium!

There’s an aquarium to visit right outside the city centre – although I’m always hesitant to recommend these activities. But I’ll admit it’s good fun and learning experiences for families.

The Aquarium of Quebec does have a focus on conservation and the well being of their animals. They don’t have any large whales, but among their fish and sharks, they also have different seals and walruses.

They also have arctic wildlife like arctic foxes, birds of prey, and yes even two polar bears . They did in fact recently enlarged their enclosure for their two polar bears.

A heads up if you’re planning on visiting on a rainy day – half of the enclosures outside…

25. Visit Ile D’Orleans [Better In The Summer!)

Ile D’Orleans is the Island you’re looking at from Quebec City Canada. It’s across the creepy bridge in between the St. Lawerence River!

It’s all about the food on Ile D’Orleans. In the summer buy fresh berries (or even go berry picking!) and go apple picking in the fall.

There’s also a few wineries that you can visit on the island. I like Cassis Monna & Filles which is wine made with Cassis (red currants). You can also sign up for the Ile D’Orlean food tour that leaves from Quebec City if you don’t have a car.

If food isn’t your thing, you can also drive around the Island checking out the 6 different towns and the views of the St. Lawerence River.

Quebec City To Île d’Orleans Organized Tours With Viator

Ile Orleans Food & Drink Tour From Quebec City →

Ile Orleans Wine Tasting Tour From Quebec City →

Hidden Gems In Quebec City That No One Tells You!

Now if you really don’t know what to do in Quebec City because you’ve visited so many times, or are just looking for some different things to do , these next Quebec City activities are for you!

26. Do A Night Time Crimes Or Ghost Tour

If you already know the history of Quebec City Canada, why waste your time learning about it again on a walking tour. Instead! go on a crime walking tour at night ( like this one from Viator ).

You’ll delve deeper into the dark past of Old Quebec, and let me tell you, there’s a lot to unearth!

There’s also a ghost tour you can sign up for – their ticket office is located in Petit Champlain.

27. Pay Homage To The Draveur – The Hidden Statue In Old Quebec!

Next to the second most prominent buildings of the Quebec City skyline (the Price building), is quite possibly one of the best – and most significant – statues in the city.

This is not just another statue of a founder or political leader ( boring! ), this commemorates young men who had one of the hardest jobs of the 20th century.

These are the Draveurs, the Coureurs du Bois, or Log Drivers in English. Starting in the 1930s, young men would ride on log rafts with a giant pole – guiding the wood down the river. They brought wood to the cities and to paper mills and saw mills when there were no roads that led from the forest.

This profession went into the 90s when it was finally banned due to the impact it had on the ecosystem. But it was actually a very taxing job and many log drivers didn’t survive – which is why there’s so little knowledge about it today. The average was 12 years working as a Draveur.

Today, it’s a rather forgotten job of Quebec but one that was nonetheless very important.

28. Find Where The Cannonball Tree Once Stood!

There was a time when people flocked to Quebec City Canada to see the famous bomb in a tree.

There was a theory that the bomb was from 1759 when the British hit Quebec with bombs. It’s believe that it was buried and eventually the growth of the American Elm made it resurface in its roots.

But, it was most likely a defused and anchored bomb that used to be place in the road to protect the stone houses from horse drawn carriages… a little less exciting as a history!

Regardless, it was still pretty cool to see a bomb grown into a tree.

Unfortunately, the tree had to be cut down in 2021 because it was deemed unsafe. The tree was over 100 years old and was dying. To avoid any injuries, the city decided to remove it and put up an art piece to pay homage to the tree.

The tribute was supposed to be added in 2022… but it wasn’t there when I visited in November.

29. The Morrin Centre – English History Of Old Quebec

The Morrin Centre is hands down my favourite thing to do in Quebec City, I don’t know why this isn’t on more lists.

The Morrin Centre is quite possible the most interesting building in all of Quebec (in my mind anyway!). Starting out as a mixed prison for men, women, and children in the centre of town. Then once they realized that was a bad idea, it became a Protestant Anglophone University.

After the University close it was abandoned for about 100 years until it became the museum you can visit today. They offer daily tours and access to the largest English library in Quebec City (p.s. the English population of Quebec City is only 2% now…).

They still have an original jail cell and university rooms. It’s an interesting combination to say the least!

P.S. If you’ve read the books Bury Your Dead by Louis Penny, apparently this is the place she was referencing in her novel. If you want to read it before your visit – see it on Amazon .

30. Tour The Pole Culturel De Monastre D’ Ursuline (Ursuline Museum)

The Saint Ursuline Monastery might just be one of the oldest buildings and oldest institutions in Quebec City as well. It’s grown quite a bit over the years from 1644 – when it started as a single house. It’s now made up of several buildings and courtyards.

The Ursuline are an important part of Quebec history – especially for girls. They are the oldest school for girls in North America (as always – North of Mexico!).

And they didn’t just teach prayer and home economics – these girls were taught everything from reading and writing, to physics, chemistry, and even mechanics!

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Plus, the Ursuline Nuns also learned First Nations languages to be able to teach girls from First Nations communities.

You can tour one of the buildings which they’ve turned into a museum with artifacts dating back to the 1600s and learn a bit about life in this all girls boarding school.

Today it’s still a primary school although no longer boards students and they’ve opened it up to boys as well.

31. Spend A Relaxing Day At The Augustine Monastery

Did you know there’s a spa in the middle of Old Town Quebec, and it’s run by nuns!?

There is so much to unpack at the Augustine Monastery. For starters, these sisters started the first hospital in Quebec: The Hotel Dieu. The sisters were the nurses who took care of the patients.

For centuries, they’ve had a focus on health and well being. Whether it was eating properly or taking care of their patients in the hospitals. Over the years, although they cannot be official nurses without a degree, they can still care for the family of patients, and focus on wellness… which is how the spa comes in.

So, you can actually stay here ( oh ya, it’s also a hotel – see it on booking.com ! ), or get a day pass for their spa. Which includes a free meal in their restaurant.

Or, if you’re pressed for time, simply head to the museum to learn more about the sisters. I recommend the tour, it’s included in your ticket.

32. Enjoy The View From Montmorency Park

Montmorency Park can easily go unnoticed but it’s actually quite important to Old Quebec history. If you take the stairs down to Lower town, go across the bridge instead of continuing down the stairs towards Petit Champlain.

This is the location of the original defence system of Quebec. All those canons were here even before the citadel of Quebec was ever built.

Perhaps even more important, you get some great view from the park . If you look any way in the part you get an exceptional view: either of the Chateau Frontenac towering above you, or of the St. Lawerence River below.

Plus, if you walk a bit further along the city walls, you’ll get a view of the Old Port from above!

33. Follow The St. Charles River To Cartier Brébeuf

The St. Charles River flows for 30 kms from the St. Lawerence starting in Quebec’s Old Port until Lac St. Charles. And, you can walk the entire way on the 30 km trail !

Okay, so you don’t have to walk the whole way, but it is nice to stroll along the river for a bit. Plus, if you’re up for it, you can make it to Cartier Brébeuf .

Cartier Brébeuf is a historical place just outside Old Quebec. Today it’s a beautiful park with water flowing through and picturesque views of the skyline.

But before this was ever a park, it was actually a meeting point for the French and First Nations. During the summer, you can find out more at the Learning Centre.

34. Swap Rue Saint-Jean For Rue Saint-Joseph

Don’t get me wrong, Rue Saint-Jean is adorable, but it’s also a major tourist attraction. If you want more local vibes, head to the Saint Roch neighbourhood to walk along Rue Saint-Joseph.

You’ll find local shops and restaurants here (and some of the best coffee in all Quebec City).

My favourite spots are Fanamanga for delicious bubble tea and Nektar Cafeologue for coffee. If you’re looking for some next level ramen, head to Tora-Ya or Honō Ramen . If you’re into board games, then you have to check out La Revanche for a board game night!

Plus, it’s beautiful just to admire the architecture, there’s one building that makes me feel like you’re in the Harry Potter scene with the dragon (you know which one I’m talking about!).

Rue Saint-Joseph is about a 20 minute walk from Old Quebec.

35. Or Check Out The Giant Lampshades Of Avenue Cartier

Avenue Cartier is another option instead of Rue Saint Joseph, although it’s a bit further – closer to a 30 minute walk instead. You might want to consider driving instead of walking here.

The main attraction of Avenue Cartier are the giant lampshades that take over the street and are beautiful to admire. There are also some local cafes and restaurants here.

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36. If It’s Too Cold Or Raining: Head To The Mega Park Or Valcartier

If you’re looking things to do in Quebec City on a rainy day or cold winter day head to Mega Park or Valcartier.

Mega Park is closer than Valcartier and still gives you more than enough things to do for the day inside (15 minute drive vs. 35 minute drive). They have everything, they’re essentially indoor amusement parks!

Mega Park is purely indoors with different rides, arcade games, and it’s also the only place to experience Quebec skating during the summer time with an indoor skating rink!

Valcartier is more like an entire vacation village. It’s a bit further, but you can even stay here ( see hotels on booking.com) . They have an entire indoor water park here… if that’s not cool I don’t know what is! Plus this is where they set up the famous ice hotel in the winter.

37. Don’t Just Stay On The Ferry, Actually Visit Levis Quebec

One of the popular things to do in Quebec City is to take the Levis-Quebec Ferry for outstanding views of the Quebec City skyline. And I don’t disagree.

But what no one else tells you is that you can get off the ferry to explore the city of Levis Quebec .

In fact, before Quebec City was ever on the map, it was all about Levis. That’s because this is where the train station was (it was decommissioned officially in 1930s).

So although it isn’t much today, there are still a few spots worth visiting (and you might even get a better view off the ferry!). Read my full post on what to do in Levis Quebec here .

Related Easy Quebec City Day Trip: The Levis Quebec Ferry & More

38. Spend A Day At The Beach : Beaupré

It’s no secret that I’m not a beach person (I mean, I’m the person who came up with things to do in Miami that aren’t going to the beach…).

Needless to say, I have not gone to this beach but I’ve heard it’s a good hang out spot in the summer. Plus, it’s one of the only beaches in the area.

P.S. if you’re looking for summer beaches, you can also head to Ile D’Orleans.

39.Visit Montmorency Falls AT NIGHT!

Montmorency falls are probably one of the most popular things to do in Quebec City. If you missed it, it’s actually in the top 12 on my list of Quebec City activities ( jump back to them here )!

I mean, to have such an impressive water fall so close to the city is insane. If you’ve already visited the falls, or looking for something to do at night, there’s nothing stopping you from checking out Montmorency Falls at night.

The falls are completely open at night – obviously it’s at your own risk… And I’m not going to lie, it’s kind of terrifying at night. But it’s also really cool! There’s no one there (we went in the fall, it might be busier in the summer).

The falls are lit up with changing colours making them even more epic! It’s free to go inside, but of course, there aren’t any activities or amenties at night! We just walked along the boardwalk, and there are some benches to sit and enjoy the view!

40. Learn About The Huron-Wendat In Wendake Village

If you know the story of Canada, you know that the First Nations were on this land first. And Quebec was no exception.

The Wendat lived here for centuries and still do today – known as the Huron-Wendat. Only 20 minutes from Old Quebec, you’re able to visit their community and learn about their history, traditions, and their lives today.

You might also be interested in reading… Wendake Village: An Important Day Trip From Quebec City

Somehow I’m still discovering more things to do in Quebec City each day that passes! So I’m very excited to visit again one day and add even more Quebec City activities to the list!

P.S. Need A Place To Stay In Old Quebec?

I’ve visited Quebec City and stayed in a few places over the years, here are my recommendations.

If you’re on a budget but want to stay in the city centre, there’s no better place than Au Petit Hotel ( see it on Booking.com ). It’s a small but mighty hotel and for a night or two it gets the job done! Plus, you’ll feel like you’re staying in old time Quebec when you stay here!

I’ve also stayed just outside Old Quebec at the Hilton Québec. If you’re going to stay here, you have to upgrade your room to one with a view. This way, you’ll have floor to ceiling windows overlooking the Chateau Frontenac, plus you’ll have all the luxuries of staying in a hotel. It’s not far from Old Town either, only about a 5 minute walk. See it on Booking.com .

I’ve also heard only good things about the Clarendon Hotel in Old Town Québec. It’s be a bit pricier than Au Petit Hotel, but it’s also a more regular size hotel room. Plus, this is THE location to be in Quebec City. See availability and room rates on Booking.com .

For more accommodation options in Quebec City on Booking.com , or for more recommendations read my blog post .

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• Wendake Village: An Important Day Trip From Quebec City
• Easy Quebec City Day Trip: The Levis Quebec Ferry & More
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20 Must-See Quebec Attractions to Add to Your Province Bucket List

Who said Quebec must-see attractions and places aren’t deserving of a visit even if they’re sometimes quite busy? After all, there’s a reason they constitute some of the most popular spots! I’ve prepared for you 20 can’t-miss essentials you’ll want to add to your bucket list for your next trip to Quebec Province. I’ve covered every region in the four corners of the land, bringing you well-known and loved fundamentals, as well as my favourites you’re sure to adore!

Top Must-See Attractions in Each Region of Quebec

Let’s start exploring the province’s renowned gems so you can get a good idea of what’s in store for you during your next journey to Quebec!

1.     Sleeping in the World’s Largest Log Cabin at Château Montebello, Outaouais

Nothing says Quebec, or actually Canada, more than a lodge experience! Even better when it’s in the world’s biggest log cabin, isn’t it? At Le Château Montebello , part of the Fairmont chain of signature hotels in the country, you’ll feel like you’re in an all-inclusive resort in La Belle Province’s Outaouais region.

Nature, woods, sports, family activities, gastronomy… Spice it up with a visit to surrounding artisans in the town of Montebello (cheese maker, microbrewery, chocolate maker, etc.) or spend the day with free-roaming animals at Parc Omega .

2.     Exploring Quebec City’s Picture-Perfect Old Town

Sure, Quebec City ’s old town alleyways and historical buildings no longer remain a secret around the world, but they are worth all the time you’ll spend exploring them! Walk along the Terrasse Dufferin wood walkway, from the iconic Château Frontenac to the Citadelle of Quebec and the Plains of Abraham, battlefield grounds that have since become a park where sunbathers, bikers and runners rejoice!

3.     Meeting Quebec’s Artists in the Picturesque Town of Baie-Saint-Paul, Charlevoix

Definitely one of the cutest, most Instagrammable villages in Quebec, Baie-Saint-Paul, in the region of Charlevoix , will leave you begging for more. Quaint and charming, it attracts tons of tourists, especially in the summer when artists open up their galleries and invite you in. Steps away from the shores of the Saint-Lawrence river and the mountains, you’ll find plenty to do!

4.     Visiting a Provincial Icon: The Percé Rock, Gaspésie

Chances are you’ve already seen the Rocher Percé or Percé Rock on a postcard of Quebec. You know that mammoth of a rock formation with a hole at its end nestled in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, Gaspésie ? It’s one of our signature spots you’ve got to see with your own eyes at least once in your lifetime. Explore it on foot at low tide from the beach, hop on a boat tour to roam around it or admire the giant from the Percé village.

5.     Reaching for the Stars at Laval’s Cosmodôme

Kids and adults alike will love exploring space, taking part in a mission to Mars or watching a 4D sensory and immersive film at the Cosmodôme . This interactive museum has been around since I was a kid (I’m from Laval , so I visited it many times!) and has constantly updated its exhibitions since, making wannabe astronauts or just curious visitors VERY happy!

6.     Watching the City Swarm Under You From Montreal’s Mount Royal

Montrealers sure have a love affair with their mountain! Well, some would probably call it a hill more than a mountain, but the 10 km 2 the park occupies are constantly filled with locals going for a stroll, hiking, enjoying the view or taking part in the Tam-Tam celebrations on Sundays at noon at the base of Mount Royal . If you’re travelling to Montreal , it’s a must-see attraction in Quebec!

7.     Taking Advantage of Mont Tremblant’s Diverse Offering in the Laurentians

Flocks of people spend weekends and even week-long vacations in Mont Tremblant’s resort town in the heart of the Laurentians and there’s a reason for that! Not only is it a gorgeous essential in Quebec, but it has everything you could imagine ever wanting. Golf, biking, hiking in Mont-Tremblant National Park, gambling at the casino, fine dining , ziplining and so much more. I particularly enjoy it in the fall when the leaf colours change!

8.     Pleasing Your Sweet Tooth at Montérégie’s Sucrerie de la Montagne Sugar Shack

Some of my best childhood memories are from the sugar shack, a spring tradition where families unite to celebrate our local gold: maple syrup! We enjoy traditional Canadian hearty cooking with wayyyyy too much sweet syrup taste and party along to folk music. Horse-drawn carriage rides and maple taffy are often part of the deal.

In the Montérégie region, the Sucrerie de la Montagne , although a vast establishment different from the ones I’m used to, is perfect for you to experience sugaring off as it’s open all year round if you’re not here from mid-March to mid-April. You can even sleep there if you want to make it a getaway in itself!

9.     Indulging in Sutton’s Joie de Vivre in the Eastern Townships

Sutton is one of my favourites towns in Quebec. It’s just so darn cute and quaint! Stop into its coffee shop, microbrewery, range of restaurants, or cultural and heritage destinations to learn more about the Eastern Townships , all while taking in the town’s joie de vivre !

Nature lovers can treat themselves to biking, hiking, kayaking in the neighbouring outdoors. You can even pedal in the sky along the Vélo Volant canopy cycle cable or watch the stars at the National Geographic open air augmented reality planetarium ObservÉtoiles in the same location, not too far from town!

10.  Going Wild and Back to Nature at La Mauricie National Park

The province of Quebec has multiple national parks, but La Mauricie National Park in the Mauricie region is definitely a staple! It contains over 150 lakes, miles of forest land, surprising waterfalls, trails for all levels and breathtaking scenery of Quebec’s wild. Turn your visit into a vacation with some camping or ready-to-camp oTENTik glamping accommodation, my kind of must-have experience!

11.  Spotting Marine Life in Tadoussac on a Whale-Watching Cruise

Whale-watching tours and cruises in the Saint-Lawrence estuary are a must-do activity if you’re in the Côte-Nord region. Hop into a zodiac (bigger boats are also available) and look out for marine life as you whizz through the waters. Will you spot a humpback or a blue, fin or minke whale? Whichever company you choose for your tour, make sure they are part of the Alliance Éco-Baleine association, committed to treating animals with respect!

12.  Getting the Best Out of Land and Water at the Fjord du Saguenay

From Tadoussac, head out to explore Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean’s gem, the Fjord du Saguenay, a pristine natural territory as fun to discover by car as by boat, both land and water offer stunning views. If you have time, head to the Fjord Museum in La Baie to get a better understanding of this essential part of Quebec. In my opinion, it’s one of the province’s best and most fun museums and I’m not much of a museum buff, so that says a lot!

13.  Catching the Best Sunsets in Bas-Saint-Laurent’s Cutest Village, Kamouraska

Quebec’s Bas-Saint-Laurent region is known for its unbelievably spectacular sunsets, and Kamouraska, its star village, is a great base to appreciate them. On the shores of the Saint Lawrence River as it widens out to sea, the town boasts a wide variety of restaurants, shops, artist boutiques and panoramas you won’t want to overlook. If you’re into seafood, you’ll never want to leave!

14.  Trying to Say Goodbye to the Ochre Cliffs of the Magdalen Islands

It’s simply impossible to name only one iconic place in the Îles de la Madeleine, or the Magdalen Islands as they are called in English. The Maggies are my favourite home away from home and anyone that sets food in the archipelago will understand… It’s a bucket list must-visit destination that will simply never leave your soul even years after you’ve gone home!

15.  Digging For Gold at Abitibi-Témiscamingue’s La Cité de l’Or

Pretend you’re a miner at La Cité de l’Or in the northern region of Abitibi-Témiscamingue ! Put on your hard hat and miner’s outfit and reach 300 feet deep into the gold mine’s drift to see what life was like during Quebec’s 1920s gold rush. Once you emerge, explore the cute miner’s log houses of the historic village of Bourlamaque to get a feel for the times!

16.  Understanding Power in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James’ Hydroelectric Dams and Stations

On top of all the awesome nature and Cree experiences you can discover in Quebec’s Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region of the North, uncover the mystery of electricity in one of its massive and jaw-dropping hydroelectric dams and stations. In the middle of nature, the force of water is sure to impress!

17.  Turning Back Time in Chaudière-Appalaches’ Grosse-Île Historic Site

From 1832 to 1937, as immigrants once arrived at what is today Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site , they were put under quarantine before reaching the port of Quebec. Nestled between the northern and southern shores of the fleuve Saint-Laurent or Saint Lawrence River, the island was also an important place for medical and scientific research on top of changing immigrant lives forever. Quite an emotional place to visit in the Chaudière-Appalaches region.

18.  Checking Out Trail Conditions in Lanaudière’s Snowmobile Country

They don’t call this part of Quebec snowmobile country for nothing! If you want to breeze through fresh snow and explore the trails in the Lanaudière region of the province, plan a trip on a Ski-doo ! Not only is it an iconic Canadian experience to add to your top things to do while in the province, but it will also get your adrenaline pumping for a few hours or a few days, no matter your experience level!  

19.  Discovering Our Roots at Centre-du-Québec’s Village Québécois d’Antan

Ever wondered what Quebec looked like back from 1810 to 1930? At the Village Québécois d’Antan in Centre-du-Québec , you’ll find out! I remember visiting with school as I was younger and feeling like I had stepped back in time. It’s a moment in our history that really fascinates me!

Walk through historical houses and buildings and meet costumed individuals that will help you get of sense of what was going on back then. The village is even haunted during Halloween, illuminated for Christmas and sweetened up for sugaring off!

20.  Flying Over the 55 th Parallel North in Nunavik’s Pingualuit National Park

Simply the adventure of a lifetime! Although I haven’t yet gotten to see Pingualuit National Park with my own eyes, I know Nunavik’s natural treasure and its meteorite crater are bound to leave you speechless. Obviously, the Ungava Peninsula, because of its northern remoteness, isn’t that much of a “Quebec classic” as not many tourists (nor residents for that matter!) get out there, but it sure is a must-visit attraction if you’re into nature, hiking, fishing, hunting and/or indigenous tourism.

Uh oh! With this list of must-see places where to go, I might have confused you even more instead of helping you choose your next must-see attraction in Quebec… Forgive me, we have so much to offer! These 20 must-visit attractions are only some of my favourite “classics” you can’t miss, but I can promise they are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to experiences and activities you’ll enjoy all around the province.

Which of these must-see attractions in Quebec are you most interested in?

For even more Quebec bucket-list ideas:

• 10 Top Things to Do in Quebec Province

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these now to save them for later!

Passionate about travel and food, Jennifer Doré Dallas is a freelance travel writer, author and creator since 2010. On top of this amazing Chasing Poutine blog, she also founded Moi, mes souliers in 2010 and she is the author/co-author of around two dozen Lonely Planet, Ulysse and Parfum d'encre travel guidebooks, in addition to having contributed to other books and hundreds of tourism and Web platforms, magazines, DMOs and Websites over the years. As a lecturer in Web writing and SEO for a Quebec college and consultant for various companies and DMOs, she loves combining technological advances with the classic beauty of words, and is a member of TMAC, SATW, NATJA and IFTWTA!

Further Reading...

Top 5 Best Breakfast in Mont Tremblant

Horseback Riding in Mont Tremblant

Dog Sledding in Quebec City and Beyond: Best Places

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Best Things to Do in Montreal in Winter

How to get from montreal to quebec city.

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• TheTraveler .net
• Places of interest Québec

Québec: 11 must-see attractions

Tourist attractions, places to visit in the province of quebec.

Jacques-Cartier National Park

One of the province's 30 national parks, is only a 30 minute-drive north of Quebec City. You will be able to explore 258mi2 of surface area and over 62 miles of trail. Towering mountains, through valleys and rivers are a delight for visitors. Activities are not just limited to hiking, kayaking down the Jacques Cartier River is also very popular, as is fishing or stand up paddling. In winter, put on your snowshoes or skis and go explore the snow-covered landscapes.

Parc national de la Mauricie

Au cœur de la chaine de montagnes des Laurentides, le Parc national de la Mauricie se distingue par sa forte concentration en lacs et sa forêt abondante. Il représente ainsi parfaitement l’idée que l’on se fait des grands espaces canadiens. De nombreuses randonnées et points de vue sont faciles d’accès ce qui rend le lieu particulièrement familial, adapté à tous les niveaux. Enfilez vos meilleures chaussures de marche pour parcourir les 160 km de sentiers traversant le parc de toutes parts. Côté faune et flore, vous y trouverez plus de 30 espèces d’arbres différentes et des mammifères comme l’ours noir, l’orignal ou encore le loup de l’Est sans oublier les rongeurs aisément observables.

Tadoussac and its villages are surrounded by preserved landscapes and offer a friendly atmosphere that brings together both locals and travellers. In addition to its remarkable setting, the region is renowned for its river, which is frequented by many marine animals, including whales. From spring to autumn, up to 12 different species run up the local rivers to enjoy krill and fish. This is made possible by the favourable underwater relief and currents that are conducive to a proliferation of food. There are many ways to observe marine wildlife, you can hike along the shore or go on excursions on a zodiac boat or kayak. After your encounter with whales, porpoises and Beluga whales, take a walk along the dunes of Tadoussac and visit the old chapel.

The Charlevoix region is full of amazing landmarks such as L'Isle-aux-Coudres, Grands-Jardins National Park, Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park or Port-au-Persil, which are part of The Most Beautiful Villages of Quebec association. The splendour of the landscapes rests on the impressive mountains majestically set on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. In the same spirit as Île d'Orléans, in Charlevoix you will find plenty of local products and crafts. Your trip will be punctuated by beers, ciders, chocolates and cheeses for the greatest enjoyment of hedonists.

Saguenay Fjord National Park

A breathtaking panorama awaits you in this 1260mi2 national park. Its fjord and surrounding forest make it one of the most exotic places in the province. Both in summer and winter, it is an ideal spot for hiking, kayaking, via ferrata, snowshoeing and dog sledding. You may even have the chance to see a few Beluga whales during the summer months. Considered one of the most beautiful in the park, the Anse-de-Tabatière viewpoint is accessible to everyone and is the ideal spot to watch the sky change color at sunset.

Lac Saint-Jean

A trip around Lac Saint-Jean, which is called “the inland sea” because of its size, is a classic for road-trip enthusiasts. The inhabitants call themselves the blueberries, referring to the fruit that grows abundantly in the region. Enjoy a cultural break by discovering Aboriginal history at the Mashteuiatsh Amerindian Museum or enjoy an unusual experience at the Wild Zoo of St-Félicien: animals roam freely on 1200 acres of land while you observe them from the caged train, the roles are reversed for the well-being of the residents. The zoo is home to many animals from the Boréalie region and all its profits are reinvested in the preservation of these species. If you want to take a leap into the past, stop at the ghost town of Val-Jalbert and the Ouiatchouan falls, and travel back to 1927. Naturewise, Pointe-Taillon National Park and Grandes-Rivières Regional Park offer sandy shores on one side, boreal forests and majestic rivers on the other.

Gaspé Peninsula

The Gaspé Peninsula offers over 550 miles of panoramic coastal roads, it is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Beaches, mountains and cliffs cohabit harmoniously, the Atlantic Ocean meets the St. Lawrence River. The Percé Rock is the main attraction of the peninsula, you can admire its arch by kayak, directly from the coast or on a boat tour. Every Spring, Bonaventure Island turns into a bird sanctuary for northern gannets, majestic birds with bright white feathers. Wildlife observation is just as rich in the Forillon Park, with its cliffs and boreal forest being the home of many species: seals, lynxes, beavers and also whales (cruise required). For a seaside break, head for the Chaleur Bay and its long beaches, that have the warmest water in the Gaspé Peninsula. Local cuisine is mainly composed of seafood products such as lobster, shrimp and crab.

Quebec City

The only fortified city on the North America and former transatlantic seaport, Québec City has a rich history. It is now the capital of the Province of Quebec and is divided into two geographical areas: Upper Town and Lower Town. Upper Town is full of small alleys, old traditional houses and religious buildings such as the Basilica-Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec. Château Frontenac, the city's iconic building, is the world’s most photographed hotel. In front of it, the panoramic Dufferin Terrace invites you to stroll down the Governors Promenade, along the ramparts of the Citadel. Lower Town is a maze of picturesque streets and districts such as the Petit-Champlain. Take a photo break on Place Royale and its imposing mural fresco depicting Quebec's history over the past 4 centuries.

Montmorency Falls

The 83-meter-high falls are the highest waterfalls in Quebec, 30 meters higher than the Niagara Falls. This natural jewel is only a 15 minute-drive from downtown Quebec City and is located where the Montmorency river drains into the St. Lawrence River. Not afraid of heights? Go rock climbing by following one of the 3 via ferrata routes or enjoy the amazing view offered by the 300 meter-long zipline. . Open all year long, an astonishing phenomenon occurs during winter: the mist crystallizes and slowly settles at the base of the waterfall. The thin, successive layers of white powder form a giant pile, poetically nicknamed "sugar loaf".

Île d’Orléans

The local atmosphere is characterized by its sweetness of life, market gardening and arts and crafts. This 33 km long island is only a 15 minute-drive from Quebec City and is a destination of choice for gourmets. Take a map of the area and go visit its chocolate factories and sugar shacks or enjoy a blackcurrant wine tasting. The many farm products vary according to the season and are a big part of the culinary heritage of the island, they can easily be found in local farmers markets. The constantly evolving landscapes and the many historic buildings will make your visit of the island an unforgettable experience.

Located on an island in the St. Lawrence River, Montreal is the most populated city in the province of Quebec and the second largest in Canada. It is as large as it is vibrant, its multicultural districts are bursting with energy and entertainment, in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Looking for an artistic and stimulating atmosphere? Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End are the perfect place for you thanks to its many thrift shops, cafés, record stores, art galleries and street art artworks. Take a walk along the old port or hike to the Mount-Royal lookout, the famous park overlooking the city. You will be rewarded with an unforgettable view of downtown Montreal and its skyscrapers. In summer, go see the dancers and drummers that gather every Sunday around the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Monument. You can count on local beers, bagels, poutines and smoked meat sandwiches to satisfy your need for culinary discoveries. Thanks to its fast-growing culinary scene, Montreal is becoming the #1 foodie destination in North America. What to see in Montréal

Matisse's review

During the three months I spent in Montreal, I fell in love with "The City of a Hundred Steeples". What first appealed to me is the young and relaxed atmosphere, combined with the presence of many different cultures. The city offers endless possibilities: museums, parks, bars, shows... it is impossible to get bored, whatever your interests are. But there’s more; sunsets are splendid here, especially from the steps of Saint Joseph’s Oratory. Quebec City’s cafés, terraces and cobblestoned streets give the city an undeniable European charm. The streets of Old Quebec are the oldest in North America. The Frontenac castle overlooks the city and makes the urban landscape particularly photogenic. What I enjoyed the most in La Mauricie National Park were the Shewenegan waterfalls, the panorama offered by the "Île aux Pins" viewpoint and discovering Lake Wapizagonke on a canoe. The main appeal of the park is the presence of water everywhere, whether it be lakes, ponds, rivers or waterfalls. Fjord-du-Saguenay National Park is my favourite national park! The various hikes it offers are perfect if you are looking for a new sporting challenge or a breathtaking view. Jacques-Cartier National Park is a guaranteed change of scenery, only a few miles away from the city. I really enjoyed the range of activities available throughout the different seasons and I will never forget my encounter with a few wild porcupines along the trails. What a pleasure to discover Canada's far north through its boreal forest or Amerindian culture. Lac Saint-Jean brilliantly combines natural wonders, culture, entertainment and gastronomy. At certain times of the year, the region is a prime location for northern lights hunting. My visit to Île d'Orléans was a real immersion in local traditions with visits to orchards, stops at fruit and vegetable shops and tastings. This quenched my thirst for culinary discovery while improving my knowledge of how certain products are made. I highly recommend taking this magical break to discover Quebec’s know-how and to give flavour to your trip. The Montmorency Falls are a stopover that skilfully combines walking with sensational activities. Each season brings its share of charm and unveils a new aspect of the falls, which further reinforces their uniqueness. If you are lucky enough to see them from the highway, don't hesitate to make a stop to enjoy the power and beauty of the site. Thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and marine wildlife, Tadoussac is a magical destination. My best memory is having been able to observe animals in a respectful manner for several hours on board a kayak.

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17 Best Places In Quebec To Visit

The province of Quebec is gorgeous! With centuries of history, stunning landscapes and beautiful coastlines it’s one of Canada’s most-gorgeous places to visit. So, to help you see as many of the best places in Quebec as possible, I wanted to share some of our very favourite pit stops that you can’t miss. After all, Quebec is a Canadian gem that you have to make the most of.

Of course, the province is known for its exciting cities like Montreal and historic cities like Quebec City . Though, there’s so much more to include on a trip to Quebec that goes beyond its cities and explores the natural spots that are just as impressive.

Let’s start by setting some content – Quebec, as a province, is huge! You can drive over 1000 kilometres from Quebec City and still not reach halfway to the northerly coast of the province.

It’s totally vast, untouched and incredibly unspoilt.

That being said, you don’t need to travel for days to reach the gorgeous gems of Quebec. Even dotted a few hours from the main cities are a heap of the best places in Quebec that are too good to miss.

So, with a little planning and an explorer’s spirit, you can easily see a slice of this stunning province that’s within easy reach.

Take a look, below, at some of the best places in Quebec to visit. Have an epic trip! 

1.) Quebec City

With centuries of history, Quebec City is one stop you have to make in the province.

With an old-school charm, the historic centre of Quebec (around Old Quebec) has to be your first stop.

Once here, be sure to explore Petit Champlain for the charming cobbled streets and stone townhouses that date back centuries. You’ll find a treasure trove of little boutiques, independent cafes and a heap of tasty restaurants, too. 

For a tasty lunch, head over to Le Lapin Sauté for their Cassoulet with fresh scallops. So good! 

After filling up, be sure to explore more within the historic city walls. Be sure to stop at the Citadel (the largest British-built fortress in North America), visit the Plains of Abraham, and Notre Dame Basilica (one of the oldest Cathedrals in North America). 

For a sumptuous stay, check into the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. It’s such a stunner of a property and also has a heap of tasty foodie joints inside. We loved it. 

Oh yeah, and beyond the neighbourhood of Beauport, Montmorency Falls to see walk across the suspension bridge and see the power of this mighty fall!

Fancy a jaunt away from the city itself, head on over to Île d’Orléans that’s less than 30 minutes away from Old Quebec by car. This gorgeous island has heaps of history and lots of little apple-picking farms, cute hamlets and a few tasty stops to find a bite to eat.

Cassis Monna & Filles was our favourite spot where we gorged on all the poutine!

Read more: Best things to do in Quebec City

2.) Montcalm

This was totally special and actually pretty remote (even though it’s only around an hour from Montreal ). Here, you can spend some time exploring the gorgeous lakes and hiking area (around Sentier Mont Larose ) that are totally stunning.

Honestly, it’s hard to believe you’re so close to Montreal as it totally feels like you’re a million miles away! 

We headed over to Amishk Aboriginal Adventures where we totally fell in love with this area. Here, we canoed across the lake , checked into our own little camp (with a roaring fire) and headed out into the wilderness with one of the guides that introduced us to the local beaver that frequent the lake. 

It was such a special experience and one of the best places in Quebec where we saw beavers! 

Read more: Exploring Montcalm

3.) Montreal

In my opinion, one of the prettiest parts of Montreal is the historic, old centre which you have to visit. 

If you’re into your history, make sure to pop over to the iconic Notre Dame Basilica that’s been around for centuries in old Montreal. Just make sure you head inside, the interior is just too beautiful to miss. 

For a little stroll (and a bite to eat) take a stroll through Vieux-Port de Montréal (Old Montreal Port area). It really is one of the best places in Quebec to explore, especially when enjoying Montreal.

Here, you’ll find a heap of cafes and is gorgeous for a stroll on a sunny day. Oh, and be sure to grab smoked meat poutine from the vendors here… so good and great to warm up on a winter day. 

To keep your energy up, head to Tommy for their tasty coffee blends and freshly baked bagels. Then, you can easily head for a gander at the view from Mount Royal. It’s lovely when the sun is low in the sky. 

If the weather takes a turn for the worst (and you’re something of an art fiend), head over to The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Here, they host a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions that are said to be the largest art museum in all of Canada. 

Getting hungry? Head over to Ile Flottante that have a totally yummy tasting menu that changes seasonally. 

Read more: Best things to do in Montreal

4.) Perce (and surrounding region)

Just shy of Forillon National Park and Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé National Park, is Perce.

One of the best places in Quebec to place yourself as you explore the wider region around the Gaspé Peninsula.

Fancying a trip to Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé, head over on the 45-minute boat ride from Perce which, sometimes can include a trip to see Perce Rock, too.

Though don’t worry if you miss the latter on your trip, you can easily see it from Cap Mont Joli or Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse .

Both are extra special at sunrise. 

Also, to make the most of the unspoilt countryside, head to Forillon National Park that’s a hiker’s dream spot! If you’re fancying a longer hiker (for more experienced hikers), join the Mont St Albans Trail .

It can be a challenge at parts but the trails are stunning and views from the observation area are just too good to miss. 

The whole coastline around Cap Bon Ami is just too beautiful to miss, too! You might even spot some whales from the towering cliffs. 

Getting peckish, head into Perce and visit Bistro Les Sacs Vin for their freshly caught lobster and homemade, fluffy, fishcakes. So good! 

Finally, if you want the views, without a strenuous hike, head over to Suspended Glass Platform that’s a short drive from the coast itself. 

5.) Omega Park 

We hadn’t actually planned to visit Omega Park and it was by luck we found it on our last day in Canada! 

Along a 12-kilometre gravel route, you’ll get to see some of Canada’s most iconic mammals that roam the land. From Arctic Wolf, Black bears and Bison, you’ll see them all roaming this vast expanse of open land (over 2000 acres) within the beautiful Outaouais region of Quebec. 

Taking around 3 hours to visit, it’s the perfect way to see that’s within easy reach of the city of Gatineau, or Ottawa (Canada’s capital) in Ontario . 

Read more: Best places in Canada to visit

6.) Monteregie

Nestled within the southwest of Quebec, Monteregie is an easy-to-reach area that’s perched roughly halfway between Gatineau and Quebec and right on the doorstep of Montreal’s city limits. 

For some easy-to-reach skiing spots near Montreal, head over to Mont Rigaud . Best of all, they’ve got a range of slopes, for all abilities, so you don’t need to be a pro to master these slopes! 

Don’t forget to pop by the reconstructed Iroquoian village at the Tsiionhiakwatha-Droulers Archaeological Centre. Here, you’ll get to explore the First Nation’s heritage, culture and vitally important history. It’s a small little place that’s easy to stop by when driving near the US/Canada border area. 

Also, the whole around Monteregie has thousands of kilometres of hiking trails which are within easy reach of the city. Mont-Saint-Bruno National Park is great for hiking in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter. You can easily spend a long afternoon here. 

7.) Sacacomie Lake 

Another one of the best places in Quebec to be at one with nature, Sacacomie Lake is a Canadian gem that you can’t miss. 

Along the way, we headed to the Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations to learn more about the First Nations people in this area of Quebec. It was a great little spot (in Wendake) and a perfect place for lunch (or to stay overnight) before heading over to Lake itself. 

After arriving in Sacacomie, we checked into the Sacacomie Hotel , which is an alpine retreat right in the heart of the forest. From here, you can head out on the trails that surround the lake or pop into their outdoor Nordic Spa.

This was amazing and we spent a good few hours chilling here. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, book an ATV tour (we did this through the hotel) and had such an epic time!

Scaling the backroads and more hidden areas of the region, was totally fun. 

Read more: Things to do at Scacomie Lake

8.) Laurentides

cycling in this gorgeous region of Quebec is a popular pastime! Trust me, you’ll see plenty of locals and visitors hopping on the trails and routes here. 

With more than 300+ cycle paths, you’re gonna be spoilt for choice. Some are long and pretty tough, whilst others can be a total breeze. For instance, the trail ‘Le p’tit train du Nord’ is over 200km long and uses a former railway line. This means the route is pretty flat but you might not want to try the whole length in one go!

It’s easily one of the best places in Quebec to explore If you love cycling and getting out of the cities – you’ll have a blast. 

9.) Tremblant

 Around a 100-minute drive from the centre of Montreal , Mont Tremblant is a four-season mountain retreat in the heart of the Laurentians in Quebec province.

In the chillier months, there’s a heap of slopes and trails to suit all abilities – this all means you don’t need to be an Olympian to scale the slopes here.

After a day in the mountains, head for some well-deserved après ski tipples in one of the foodie’s spots just shy of Tremblant Lake; La Savoie is so delicious, especially for their fondue and raclette. 

10.) Trois-Rivières

 On highway 40 (from Quebec City to Montreal), Trois-Rivières is a spot that’s totally easy to visit for a half-day stop whilst following the St Lawrence River. 

If you fancy stretching your legs, head to the Old Jail for a little gander. Opened way back in 1822, it’s now a pretty macabre but totally interesting spot to take a gander. Once here, you can visit the cells; make sure you don’t get locked inside! 

Alternatively, if that’s not your thing, head to the nearby Musée des Ursulines , a cosy little museum that costs around $5 to enter. A perfect little stopping point if you love history; if not, give it a miss! 

11.) Lac Blanc

Around a 2-hour drive from the centre of Montreal, Lac Blanc might seem small and totally remote but that’s all part of its charm. For us, it’s easily one of the best places in Quebec to visit in fall; especially with the changing colours and warm hues. It’s magical. 

To make the most of this, we took a helicopter tour to see the fall colours and it was out of this world!

We organised it from Pourvoirie du Lac Blanc (where you can stay) and it took off just shy of the Lac Blanc shoreline.

Honestly, if you’re planning to go, go in the fall.

Afterwards, you can head out on the forest trails, explore this stunning part of Quebec and just enjoy it! We didn’t wanna leave and it was so chilled. 

Alternatively, check into Auberge du Lac Taureau , as we did after visiting Lac Blanc. Here, we headed out on a cosy little boat around Taureau Lake and hunkered down in the cabin-style hotel for a nice bit of relaxation. So good. 

Read more: Our time exploring Lac Blanc and Taureau Lake

12.) Pointe-Au-Père 

On the southern coast of the St Lawrence River, Pointe-Au-Père is around a 4-hour drive east of Gaspe and 3.5 hours from Quebec City .

This makes it a perfect stopping point if you’re heading towards Gaspe and looking for a spot to stay and chill. 

Here, you’ll get to explore the Maritime Historic Site , which houses items from the shipwreck of the Empress, the lighthouse station and the Onondaga submarine (the first open to the public in all of Canada). 

Also, stop by the totally informal Resto de la Mer . It might not look like a fancy high-end haunt but they make tasty poutine that’ll hit any hunger spot.

13.) Gatineau 

Right on the border with Ottawa , Canada’s capital within Ontario , Gatineau is just over the Ottawa River, facing the gorgeous Parliament of Canada .  

Be sure to explore the Canadian Museum of History and give yourself lots of time for the exhibits; we spent a whole morning here. Also, be sure to stop by the Canadian Children’s Museum right next door. You can literally spend a day in just these two places.

Getting hungry, reserve a table at Le Cellier ; they serve up a French seasonal menu that’s so good! We left stuffed. 

These alone make it one of the best places in Quebec to spend a long weekend, especially as you can partner this up with a trip to Ottawa, in Ontario, too! 

14.) Lac-Supérieur

Just shy of Mont Tremblant, Lake Superior (Lac-Supérieur) is easy to visit whilst travelling for some ski or trails at Mont Tremblant itself. Totally unspoilt, Lake Superior is one of the best places in Quebec to visit if you’re fancying some easy-to-access ‘great outdoors’.

Here, you’ll be able to check into one of the waterfront chalets, head out on the trails that surround the lake and even explore the wider Mont-Tremblant Park from here. 

15.) Saguenay Fjord National Park

Arguably one of the best places in Quebec to visit if you love nature, the Saguenay Fjord National Park is vast and totally immense. Around a 3-hour drive from Quebec City, you can easily head here for a long weekend or part of a wider Quebec road trip. 

For the hikers, take the Statue of our Lady of Saguenay trail; though it can get pretty strenuous at points, so be prepared and layer up, too. 

You can also take a gorgeous cruise from Baie-Éternité wharf, which also has a heated deck for the chillier months. The whole area is stunning; just be sure to plan in advance on the type of things you’d like to do best. It’s a huge place. 

16.) Bic National Park 

Another gem perched on the shoreline of St Lawrence River, it’s a worthy stopping point on your trip further west (or east). Although quite a bit smaller than other national parks, it’s still got a heap of trails, seal spotting sites and yurts to book for a cosy camping trip. 

Well worth the visit in Summer, though, Bic National Park do manage the trails in the winter months (Friday-Sunday). 

17.) Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

A massive UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve, Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park is nestled northeast of Quebec City.

In the winter months, you’ve got everything from backcountry skiing, ice skating, fat bike areas and the most gorgeous routes for snowshoeing. Though, don’t think it’s all about the winter months here; there’s so much to do in summer! 

In the milder months, you can actually head out on a rabaska canoe, which you can rent on-site and when you arrive. Also, it’s a great place to glide across the Malbaie River whilst paddle boarding. This is always so much fun and totally love just slowing down and taking all that nature in. 

It really is one of the best places in Quebec to totally relax in nature. You can easily spend 3-4 days here and not get bored! 

10 Very Best Things To Do In Quebec City, Canada

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10 Best Places to Visit in Quebec City

Founded by the French in 1608, Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America. Located in French-speaking Quebec, it’s easily one of Canada’s most beautiful cities. Quebec City’s history and many attractions make it a year-round travel destination. Each season has its own unique sights and activities. The stone fortresses and cobblestone streets take visitors back to the 18th century. If you’re still trying to decide where to go and what to see, we’ll show you the best places to visit on your next trip to Quebec City.

Table of Contents

Quebec City Overview

• Best Places to Visit for Free – The Notre Dame de Quebec Cathedral, The Plains of Abraham, and the Citadel of Quebec all have free entry.  Visitors can tour the Cathedral for free, but there is a $5 admission fee for the museum. The Plains of Abraham is within Battlefield Park, which is a public park. Entry to the Citadel is free, including the daily ceremonies, the changing of the guard, and the noon gun.
• Best Places to Visit at Night – There are a variety of places in Old Quebec that you can visit at night. Just outside the city walls is the Grand Allee, Quebec’s nightlife center. Grand Allee is home to several nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. You can take a dinner and sightseeing cruise on the St. Lawrence River. The Louis Jolliet departs from Old Town, with great nighttime views of Quebec City.
• Summer – The best places to visit during the summer are Montmorency Falls and Valcartier Water Park. Firstly, Montmorency Falls is just more pleasant to explore on warmer days. Hiking trails and ziplines are safer and easier to access. If you really need to cool down, then head to Valcartier Water Park which is only open in summer.
• Winter – One of the best places to visit is the Plains of Abraham, which is part of Battlefield Park. During winter, it’s a popular place for sledding and cross-country skiing. Another option is the Aquarium du Quebec, which is open daily. Room temperature is adjusted indoors so you can enjoy all the different exhibits comfortably.

1. Montmorency Falls

If you like waterfalls, Montmorency Falls is a great place to visit. Located 15 minutes from Quebec City, this powerful waterfall is taller than Niagra Falls. Montmorency Falls Park offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities and breathtaking views. For the less adventurous, a cable car takes visitors to the top of the falls for a bird’s eye view. There are also 3 hiking trails to the top of the falls, with scenic viewpoints along the way. Or you can zipline 1,000 feet from the top of the falls to the bottom for an even better view. Other activities include hiking trails, playgrounds, and bike paths. You can visit the falls by climbing the stairway from the visitor’s center.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 9am-6pm
• Prices: Adults $7; Children free
• Address:  2490 Ave Royale, Quebec City, Quebec G1C 1S1, Canada

Book Tours   Official site

2. Aquarium du Quebec

The Aquarium du Quebec is a family-friendly attraction with more than 10,000 marine animals. You’ll see marine mammals, including walruses, seals, and polar bears. Make sure you’re on time for their daily polar bear feeding and training, one of the main highlights each day. Another feature is the indoor 350,000-liter tank, home to several species of fish, amphibians, and reptiles. They also have several marine animals from the Pacific Ocean. Families with kids can also enjoy the picnic area, ropes course, and adventure trails. Regardless of the weather, the Aquarium du Quebec is always open.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 10am-4pm
• Prices:  Adults $21.50; Children $10.75
• Address:  1675 Avenue des Hôtels, Québec, QC G1W 4S3, Canada

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3. Quebec Museum of Civilization

The Quebec Museum of Civilization is located in the heart of Old Quebec. Its modern architecture fits perfectly with its century-old surroundings. Inside, you’ll find hundreds of historical art and artifacts which tell the story of Quebec. They study everything from how the body and society work to the history of the world. Their unique approach to the study of humanity makes them one of Canada’s most visited museums. As you explore exhibits, you’ll see multimedia presentations and interactive displays. They also offer a variety of guided tours in French and English.

• Opening Hours:  Wednesday to Sunday 10am-5pm
• Prices:  Adults $15+ ; Children $5+
• Address:  85 Rue Dalhousie, Québec, QC G1K 8R2, Canada

4. Quebec National Museum of Fine Arts

Quebec’s National Museum of Fine Arts houses one of the largest collections of Quebec art in the world. Built on the Plains of Abraham, the museum features the works of famed Canadian artists. Inside, you’ll find over 40,000 works documenting Quebec’s art from the 17th century to today. The museum has four pavilions, each with its own architecture. Displayed are paintings, drawings, and sculptures, from different periods in Quebec’s history. They also feature traveling exhibitions, music recitals, and locally produced films. After seeing all the exhibits, enjoy the riverside terrace, restaurant, café, and gift shop.

• Opening Hours:  Friday to Sunday 10am-5pm
• Prices: Adults $10+ ; Children $5+
• Address:  179 Grande Allée O, Québec, QC G1R 2H1, Canada

5. Fort Museum

The Fort Museum presents an original sound and light show on the military history of Quebec. The show revolves around a 400 sq foot model of Quebec City as it looked in 1750. It is a 30-minute multi-media experience that tells the story of the six sieges of Quebec. State-of-the-art sound and visual effects are used to recreate Quebec’s great battles. You’ll learn about the Battle of the Plains of Abraham and Benedict Arnold’s march on Quebec. During the show, you’ll have a 4D experience as each seat shakes with every shot. This show is a must-see for military history buffs. There’s also a small exhibit of military weapons and uniforms.

• Opening Hours:  Wednesday to Sunday 10am-4pm
• Prices:  Adults $9; Students $7; Children free
• Address:  10 Rue Sainte-Anne, Québec, QC G1R 4S7, Canada

6. Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral

Built in 1647, Notre Dame de Quebec is the oldest Catholic parish north of Mexico. The Cathedral has been bombarded and set on fire multiple times but continues to rise from the ashes. It is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture, art, and history. Because of its classic architecture, it’s a designated Canada National Historic Site. Inside are various works of art, imported stained glass windows, Casavant organs, and solid gold altarpieces. The basilica is the final resting place for the governors of New France and Québec’s Catholic Bishops. Entry to the basilica is free with a $5 admission for the museum. It’s a popular stop on some of Quebec City’s bus and walking tours.

• Opening Hours: Generally 7am-4pm
• Prices:  Free entry, museum is $5
• Address:  16 Rue De Buade, Québec, QC G1R 4A1, Canada

7. Shrine of Saint-Anne-de-Beaupré

The Shrine of Saint-Anne-de-Beaupre is one of Canada’s oldest and most visited shrines. Located only 20 minutes from Quebec City, it’s the oldest pilgrimage site in North America. Its origins go back to the 17th century. Every year, a million pilgrims visit the shrine dedicated to the grandmother of Jesus. The chapel is home to several masterpieces, including sculptures of St. Anne and the Virgin Mary. Visitors come from all over the world to view the chapel’s mosaics and 240 stained-glass windows. Admission to The Shrine of Saint Anne is free, but donations are accepted. A number of tours do include the shrine as a stop, so it’s best to join a guide.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 8am-4:30pm
• Prices:  Donations accepted
• Address:  10018 Ave Royale, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, Quebec G0A 3C0, Canada

8. Plains of Abraham

The Plains of Abraham was the site of Quebec’s most famous battle. In 1759, the British defeated the French and took control of French-speaking Canada. In 1908, the government turned the Plains of Abraham into Quebec City’s Battlefield Park. The Park now attracts over four million residents and tourists every year. It’s Quebec City’s playground where residents come to cycle, jog, sled, and cross-country ski. At the grounds, you’ll also find a museum that features historical exhibitions and a variety of activities. Entry to Battlefield Park and the Plains of Abraham is free of charge. There are also Quebec City sightseeing tours that visit the park and museum.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 5am-8pm
• Prices:  Free entry
• Address:  The Battlefields Park

9. Fortifications of Quebec National Historic Site

What makes Quebec City unique is the fortification wall that surrounds old Quebec. The walls are a reminder of the city’s rich military past. The French and the British used them to keep their enemies out of the city. These fortifications make Quebec the only remaining walled city in North America. Visitors can walk through the fortification walls to see what life was like in old Quebec. From vantage points along the wall, guests can take in the breathtaking views of Quebec City. Admission is $8 for adults, and children up to 17 are free. Guided tours are available, and they start at $26.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 9:30am-4:30pm
• Prices:  Adults $8; Children free
• Address: Artillery Park – 2 Rue d’Auteuil, Québec, QC G1R 5C2, Canada

10. Citadel of Quebec

The Citadel of Quebec is the largest fortress in North America still occupied by troops. It’s Canada’s oldest military building dating back to the 1600s. The Citadel is a must-see for anyone interested in the military history of Quebec City. It is one of Quebec City’s leading tourist attractions. The Royal 22 regiment entertains visitors to the Citadel with public ceremonies. Don’t miss the changing of the guard, the noon gun, and the beating of retreat. These ceremonies, with their colorful uniforms and marching bands, always attract large crowds. Entry to the Citadel is free and guided tours are available starting at $26.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 9:30am-5pm
• Address:  1 Côte de la Citadelle, Québec, QC G1R 3R2, Canada

Where to Stay in Quebec City

Here are some top hotels which are also considered major attractions in Quebec. You can visit and stay at these places to get a complete cultural and fun experience. Otherwise, there are still plenty of great hotel options in the city.

Quebec City Hotels

Ice Hotel – Hotel de Glace

The Hotel de Glace features beautifully ice-sculpted rooms and suites for a luxurious night’s stay. Unique in North America, Ice Hotel offers its guests a one-of-a-kind winter experience. Guests can sleep in rooms with temperatures between –3 and –5 degrees Celsius. But don’t worry – rooms come with snuggly sleeping bags and pillows. The hotel also features three themed ice bars and a relaxation area with outdoor spas and a sauna. There’s even an indoor ice slide and water park.

• Guest Rating:  8.3 (Unique Experience)
• Star Rating:  3 stars
• Address:  1860, boulevard Valcartier, G0A 4S0 Saint-Gabriel-De-Valcartier, Canada

Check Rooms   Official site .

Hôtel Valcartier Water Park

Hotel Valcartier is a modern 4-star hotel designed specifically for families. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites with mountain views and private terraces. There’s an outdoor pool, restaurant, and cocktail lounge. Located in the Village Vacances Valcartier, it’s 20 minutes from Quebec City. Their outdoor water park offers fun and adventure all summer long. There are 35 heated waterslides, 2 theme rivers, and a giant heated wave pool. The Everest, North America’s highest water slide is an adrenaline junkie’s dream. Hotel Valcartier Water Park is the perfect family getaway if you have young kids.

• Guest Rating:  8.8 (Family Fun)
• Star Rating:  4 stars
• Address:  1860 boulevard Valcartier, G0A 4S0 Saint-Gabriel-De-Valcartier, Canada

Check Rooms   Official site

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

The Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway in Old Quebec. They’re famous for elegant European-style rooms with all the amenities you expect from a 5-star hotel. You’ll have access to an indoor pool, hot tub, steam room, and various spa treatments at Spa de Chateau. For date nights, pick from their many restaurants, serving everything from classic to regional dishes. The hotel is famous for its panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and Old Quebec. In fact, it’s thought to be the most photographed hotel in the world. Plus, major tourist attractions like Montmorency National Park and Notre-Dame Cathedral are minutes away.

• Guest Rating:  8.9 (Romance & Honeymoons)
• Star Rating:  5 stars
• Address:  1 Rue des Carrieres, G1R 4P5 Quebec City, Canada

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Cheap Canada Vacations: How To Visit The Most Popular Places In Canada On A Budget

• Explore Canada's best cities and provinces on a budget with cheap and even free things to do and see.
• Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador all offer affordable and fun experiences.
• Enjoy free attractions in many of the most famous places in Canada, like urban parklands, museums, art galleries, festivals, green spaces, historic sites, and cultural neighborhoods while indulging in cheap eats and local specialties.

Canada is known for its natural beauty, vibrant cities, and friendly people. It's well known that many of the most popular places in Canada to visit can be super expensive; however, it is actually possible to enjoy Canada's best cities and provinces on a budget. Whether it's Canada's cheap summer vacation spots or its winter wonderland destinations and energetic cities, from Montreal to Quebec City to Nova Scotia to Prince Edward Island, many of the most popular destinations in Canada offer an abundance of cheap (and even free) things to do and see.

It doesn't matter if visitors want to explore metropolitan areas rich in culture and history or quaint small towns surrounded by nature, visitors don't have to break the bank to have an amazing and cheap Canadian vacation when they opt for cheap and free attractions in these famous places instead. Discover the most popular parts of Canada to visit and how to enjoy each of them on a budget, proving why the cheapest vacations in Canada might actually be in some of its most iconic tourist spots.

Related: These Are The Cheapest Sunny Islands To Vacation To In The Winter

Alberta's capital city, Edmonton, is an unexpected budget-friendly destination in Canada. Home to North America's largest urban parkland, Edmonton has over 160 km of trails perfect for walking and cycling. Explore the lush river valley along these scenic paths completely free of charge.

The city's top attraction - the enormous West Edmonton Mall - offers hours of entertainment for just the cost of transit. Ride rollercoasters, browse shops, relax in an inner-city beach lagoon, and visit Sea Life Creatures aquarium from $10 per adult.

Edmonton is known as the "Festival City" for its many annual arts, culture, and food events. See top performers and exhibits at festivals like the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, Taste of Edmonton, and the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival. Most events offer free or affordable entertainment.

Regarding food, Edmonton serves delicious local specialties like pierogies and meaty Ukrainian dishes for reasonable prices. Edmonton is an excellent budget destination with free festivals, activities, and cheap eats.

• Population : 1.1 million

Manitoba's capital, Winnipeg, offers affordable fun, from museums and galleries to outdoor adventures. One of Winnipeg's best free attractions is The Forks - a lively gathering place at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. Stroll along the river walkways, catch free live music and events, shop at the local market, and learn about the area's history at the interpretive center.

For art lovers, Winnipeg houses the Manitoba Museum and several excellent art galleries, including the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Inuit Art Centre - all with free general admission. Nature enthusiasts can explore the vast Assiniboine Park and Leo Mol Sculpture Garden at no cost or drive just 10 minutes outside the city center to Birds Hill Park - one of the country's largest urban parks known for its scenic trails and beaches.

• Population : 767,945
• Flight Cost : From $210 Round-Trip

As Canada's largest city, Toronto offers endless activities and attractions. While some experiences like the CN Tower and restaurants can get expensive, visitors can actually plan a cheap trip to Toronto by sticking to the city's many free things to do.

For starters, landmarks like the Ontario Legislative Building, Eaton Centre, and Toronto sign in Nathan Phillips Square are worth a penny to visit and photograph. The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with free access to galleries like the Art Gallery of Ontario every Wednesday evening.

Next, take advantage of Toronto's sizable green spaces like High Park, filled with gorgeous gardens, a free zoo, and Grenadier Pond. The beautiful Harbourfront Centre on the Lake Ontario waterfront also offers no-cost entertainment like concerts, art fairs, outdoor markets, and more throughout the year. Take advantage of the view of the city skyline and lake from the edge of the Harbourfront Centre.

To experience Toronto's diversity, stroll through culturally rich neighborhoods like Kensington Market, Chinatown, Little Italy, and Greektown. Pop into shops and try inexpensive ethnic foods. End the day with a free comedy show at Yuk Yuk's downtown. Toronto also provides great budget eats like soft corn tortilla fish tacos and roti wraps for as little as $5-6 at food trucks and local restaurants.

Toronto is a world-class yet wallet-friendly city with endless free activities, from top museums to iconic landmarks, green spaces, and multicultural neighborhoods.

• Population : 2.8 million
• Flight Cost : From $194 Round-Trip

Canada's capital offers many historic sites and cultural attractions that are completely free, allowing travelers many ways to have fun when visiting Ottawa without spending a fortune. Must-see landmarks like the striking Gothic Parliament Hill and Rideau Canal - UNESCO World Heritage Site - don't cost a cent. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony on Parliament Hill during the summer, then walk or bike along the Rideau Canal to see scenic bridges and gardens.

Next, head to ByWard Market downtown - one of Ottawa's most vibrant neighborhoods buzzing with restaurants, shops, and street performers. Don't miss trying a hot, fluffy BeaverTail pastry - an iconic Ottawa treat! Ottawa also has several excellent museums with free admission, including the National Gallery of Canada, full of historic Canadian and Indigenous art.

Nature lovers can explore Ottawa on foot for free through its many park pathways, like those along the Rideau River and Rideau Canal. Walk or jog through massive green spaces like Major's Hill Park in the city's heart. During colder months, the Rideau Canal becomes the world's largest skating rink as part of Ottawa's Winterlude festival. Skating on the frozen canal is completely free.

Ottawa puts on an impressive sound and light show on Parliament Hill at night, illuminating the grand buildings. In the ByWard Market area, several local bars and restaurants offer live music without a cover charge. An affordable foodie scene - from shawarma to poutine - will complete their cheap Ottawa getaway.

• Population : 1 million
• Flight Cost : From $189 Round-Trip

RELATED: 10 Autumn-Specific Activities To Do In Ottawa, Canada

Montreal is one of Canada's most beautiful and vibrant cities during the fall , offering plenty of art, culture, history, and cuisine for an affordable price. As one of the largest French-speaking cities outside of Europe, Montreal exudes old-world charm combined with modern energy.

Start their cheap Montreal itinerary by wandering Old Montreal's cobblestone streets, admiring the area's historic architecture from the 1600s-1800s—Marvel at the grand Notre-Dame Basilica, one of Montreal's most stunning landmarks. Stop to watch street performers at Place Jacques-Cartier in front of City Hall. Walk up Mount Royal for incredible free panoramic views of the city skyline and St. Lawrence River.

Next, browse colorful boutiques and art galleries along Saint-Laurent Boulevard. Make sure to pick up a steaming hot Montreal-style bagel - thinner and sweeter than traditional bagels. At night, catch-free comedy shows and indie music gigs at bars around the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood.

Montreal also hosts great budget-friendly festivals, like the Jazz Fest and Just for Laughs Comedy Festival. If visiting in summer, check out La Ronde amusement park for $20 admission or enjoy the Botanical Garden's lush gardens free of charge. With so much free and low-cost entertainment, Montreal makes an excellent cheap vacation full of arts, culture, and live music. Remember to try its amazing poutine!

• Population : 4.3 million
• Flight Cost : From $120 Round-Trip

Quebec City

With its incredibly well-preserved colonial architecture, strolling the streets of Quebec City feels like stepping back in time to a quaint European village. Although it's not known as one of Canada's cheapest vacation spots, this city can actually be visited on a budget since enjoying most of Quebec's historic charm won't cost visitors a penny since there are tons of free and low-cost things to do.

Start by walking the fortress-like city walls surrounding Old Quebec, free for all to access. Next, wander through the massive Battlefields Park featuring the Plains of Abraham, the site of a pivotal 1759 battle between the French and English. Don't miss visiting two of Quebec City's most famous landmarks, the beautiful Château Frontenac Hotel and the splendid Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica, both completely free to explore and take photos.

Quebec City also offers free museums like the Musée de Civilisation and Parliament Building. Stroll the cobblestone streets of the Old Port neighborhood along the St. Lawrence River and try French-Canadian foods like poutine and tourtière meat pie from street vendors and casual eateries at budget prices.

In winter, enjoy free outdoor activities like sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in Battlefields Park. Or grab skates and glide down the ice slide for just CAD 2 in Dufferin Terrace by the Château Frontenac. With so much vibrant history and culture to soak up on a shoestring budget, Quebec City makes a memorable cheap vacation in Canada.

• Population : 844,000
• Entry Price/Cost : From $170 Round-Trip

New Brunswick

The seaside province of New Brunswick on the country's east coast offers rugged natural beauty and relaxed small-city vibes, but it also happens to be one of the cheapest places to visit in Canada. Travelers can easily experience the best of the area on a tight budget, especially by taking a scenic drive through the many pretty coastal towns in New Brunswick .

Start in the capital, Fredericton, known as the "City of Stately Elms" for its beautiful tree-lined streets. Admire the Victorian architecture in Officers' Square downtown and along the Saint John River. During summer, visitors can catch free outdoor jazz, folk, and rock concerts. Just 10 minutes outside Fredericton, guests can immerse in nature with 80km of hiking and biking trails, fishing, and camping at Mactaquac Provincial Park for just CAD 7 daily parking.

Next, head to Saint John - New Brunswick's oldest city and historic port. Enjoy free sites like the Reversing Falls rapids, where the Bay of Fundy tide causes the Saint John River to flow backward multiple times daily. Snap photos at the photogenic "Three Sisters" lighthouses and along the coastal boardwalk.

• Population : 820,786
• Flight Cost : From $370 Round-Trip (to Fredericton)

Prince Edward Island

Nicknamed the "Gentle Island," Prince Edward Island wows visitors with its warm island hospitality, fresh seafood, and beautiful beaches. Though the smallest Canadian province, PEI offers big vacation fun on a budget.

Spend the days wandering the remote beaches of PEI National Park with gently swaying dunes and lines of red sandstone cliffs. The park's day pass fee of only CAD 15 provides access to all its beaches, lighthouses, and hiking trails - an incredible value. Don't miss the famous Cavendish Beach, where travelers can walk the white sands that inspired the novel Anne of Green Gables.

Enjoy free entertainment like outdoor concerts and theater performances, magic shows, and bonfires on the beaches in the evenings. Stay in the charming small town of Charlottetown to experience local art galleries and live music, or kayak the Northumberland Strait. PEI is a quintessential cheap Canadian destination with sweet island hospitality, incredible seascapes, and wallet-friendly attractions. Travelers can leave their cares behind when they cross the Confederation Bridge!

• Population : 172,707
• Flight Cost : From $398 Round-Trip

RELATED: Nature Lovers: Why Prince Edward Island Is Worth Visiting

Nova Scotia

From the historic port city of Halifax to miles of stunning coastal scenery, Nova Scotia is one of the best cheap vacation ideas in Canada because it captivates visitors with its maritime charm, fresh seafood, and attractions that are mostly accessible for free.

Start in Halifax, a lively harbor city steeped in English and Scottish heritage. Soak up views of colorful Victorian buildings, historic forts, and sailing ships from Halifax's scenic harborfront boardwalk. Take advantage of the lively Historic Properties area full of shops and restaurants.

Nature lovers can explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park - with gorgeous oceanfront cliffs, canyons, and trails - on the famous Cabot Trail looping around northern Nova Scotia. Add stops in the German-settled town of Lunenburg to see brightly painted colonial houses and in Annapolis Royal to browse quaint waterfront shops.

Nova Scotia also hosts free summer festivals like the Stan Rogers Folk Festival and Halifax Jazz Festival. With picturesque fishing villages, coastal wonders, and cultural attractions accessible on a budget, Nova Scotia is a perfect affordable Canadian vacation. Remember to indulge in its famous seafood while there!

• Population : 925,820
• Flight Cost : From $340 Round Trip

Newfoundland And Labrador

The remote fishing outposts and dramatically rugged landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador beckon adventurous travelers. Visitors will feel a world away but can experience this special region of Canada on a surprisingly modest budget.

The province's historic capital, St. John's, has an undeniable old-world charm, with jellybean-colored row houses lining the steep streets downtown. For free, take in colorful waterfront views from Signal Hill National Historic Site and Cape Spear Lighthouse. The nearby fishing village of Quidi Vidi - another beautiful free spot - offers glimpses into traditional Newfoundland life with stages for drying cod and historic rows of fishing huts.

Listen to live music at night and mingle with locals in St. John's lively pubs and cafes. With awe-inspiring wilderness and landmarks evocative of the province's deep ties to the Sea, Newfoundland and Labrador offer adventurous travelers epic sights and experiences, often free. It's the perfect destination for an unforgettable budget-friendly escape.

• Population : 528,818
• Flight Cost : From $420 Round-Trip

I went to Québec City and felt like I'd jetted off to Europe without leaving North America

• I went to Québec City, Canada, in August 2022. It's a historic French city with a European feel. 
• Then, I visited four European countries for the first time: Germany, Italy, Austria, and Switzerland.
• After visiting Europe, I thought Québec City felt much like it, with similar streets and buildings. 

With narrow, cobblestone streets, European-inspired architecture, and a primarily French-speaking population, Québec City, Canada , feels like a European paradise. 

I spent 24 hours in the 400-year-old French-Canadian city in August 2022. Back then, I hadn't explored enough of Europe to decide if Québec City felt like other countries across the Atlantic.

But after visiting Italy, Switzerland , Austria, and Germany in October 2022, I understood the comparison.

Perched on a hill overlooking the St. Lawrence River, Québec City is 400 years old, making it the oldest city in Canada.

The city was founded by French explorer Samuel de Champlain, according to the city's website .

Québec City is on the eastern edge of the Canadian province of Québec.

I traveled by train from Montreal to Quebéc City, but a flight from my home in NYC would take less than two hours — a lot shorter than a trip to Europe. My direct flight from NYC to Berlin was nearly eight hours long when I visited in October 2022.

I spent most of my time there in Old Québec, a neighborhood with preserved French and British colonial architecture, according to the city's website.

I spotted many of these simple, rectangular buildings with decorative shutters during my visit.

I wandered down old Québec's photogenic streets and spotted rows of colorful colonial-style buildings.

A few months later, in Zurich, I saw blocks I thought looked similar to those in Québec City.

Many of the streets in Old Québec were made of cobblestone.

They looked like the roads I saw in all four European countries I visited.

During my walk through Old Québec, I also noticed most signs were written in French.

That's because 85% of the population of Québec speaks French, according to the  Government of Canada .

English wasn't the primary language spoken in any of the European countries I visited, either.

Most of the signs I saw abroad were written in German or Italian.

While some streets in Québec City were wide, others were quite narrow.

Later in Rome and Venice, Italy, I stumbled upon alleys that reminded me of the narrow streets in Québec.

After my trip to Europe, I also realized my hotel in Québec City, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, was similar to those I saw abroad.

I thought it was the most stunning building, which makes sense as it's known as the most photographed hotel in the world, according to World Atlas .

It was a dramatic castle-like structure.

The hotel opened in 1893 and was inspired by romantic architecture and French castles, according to the Québec City's website and the Canadian Encyclopedia .

I thought the hotel looked like a fairy tale with elaborate landscaping and old-world architecture.

I had a similar feeling while strolling through gardens next to historic buildings in Vienna, Austria .

Inside, I thought my hotel room was small, but the view out the window was grand.

I perched on the windowsill and marveled at the European architecture surrounding me.

I also saw Québec City Hall, which was inspired by the Second Empire.

It was built in a European style with prominent rooftops, according to the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation .

I spotted the same style of architecture in Viennese buildings like Schönbrunn Palace.

This architectural style is known as Second Empire Baroque, according to Britannica .

Additionally, old-world cathedrals in Québec City, like Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, reminded me of those I later saw in Europe.

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral has a Neoclassical style, with towers and stained-glass detailing, according to Québec City's website.

I saw a lot of Neoclassical architecture all around Rome, too, like at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.

After visiting both Québec City and Europe, I found that they're not exactly the same, but they're pretty close.

If you're looking for a European adventure that's closer to home without the jet lag, I think Québec City is a good alternative.

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Ossipee Valley Fair, Moxie Festival and more happening this weekend

The Maine International Film Festival starts Friday in Waterville.

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Now that we’re all comfortably settled into the rhythm of summer, let’s do a classic summer thing and go to a fair!

Jeremy Schoff of York leads his oxen, Pete and Red, during the ox pull on Thursday at the Ossippe Valley Fair in 2021. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer

The Ossipee Valley Fair starts today and runs through Sunday. We especially love the Farmer Olympics because the hay bale toss and blind wheelbarrow obstacle course competition is fierce. Ray Routhier has details about Ossipee Valley and several others fairs happening this summer in Bangor, Waterville and Acton, among other locales.

Go a little farther afield and find a Maine summer fair for you

Aretha Aoki & Ryan MacDonald (right, in bear suit) performing IzumonookunI (stet capital letter at the end). Aretha Aoki & Ryan MacDonald will be bringing this dance program to the Bates Dance Festival July 12 and 14, 2024 at the Schaeffer Theatre on the Bates College campus in Lewiston, Maine. Photo by Colin Kelly

Another summer tradition is the Bates Dates Festival in Lewiston . Performances are underway, and arts writer Megan Gray has the scoop on “IzumonookunI” by Aretha Aoki and Ryan MacDonald. See it tonight and Saturday.

Topsham couple’s Bates Dance Festival performance is inspired by kabuki, punk rock and their 7-year-old

Big Yellow Taxi. Photo by Julian Parker Burns

I’m headed to One Longfellow Square on Friday night to see the Massachusetts-based Joni Mitchell tribute band Big Yellow Taxi. They’ll be playing Mitchell’s 1974 album “Court and Spark,” along with other tunes.

Tribute to Joni Mitchell celebrates 50 years of ‘Court and Spark’

“3 Vendors of Ipanema” is directed by Lewiston native Jonathan S. Lee. Courtesy of JSL Films

We weren’t kidding when we said there’s a lot going on right now. The 27th annual Maine International Film Festival starts on Friday and runs through July 21 in Waterville. Our film writer, Dennis Perkins, offers up his picks for 12 screenings worth your while.

12 hidden gems of this year’s Maine International Film Festival

Spectators watching a previous year’s Moxie Festival Parade in Lisbon Falls. Carl D. Walsh/Staff Photographer

Our weekly events roundup includes the East Bayside block party in Portland and the Moxie Festival in Lisbon Falls. Should you make it to the festival on Saturday, don’t miss “American Idol” alum Julia Gagnon singing at 1:30 p.m.

Kennebunks garden tour, Moxie Festival, East Bayside block party

One with Everything from Gunnar’s Icelandic Hot Dogs. Photo by Ray Routhier

Need a break from standard-issue hot dogs? We love them too, but sometimes a new twist is just what your taste buds need. Ray Routhier stopped by Gunnar’s Icelandic Hot Dogs cart . If you like what you read, you can find it parked from 4-9 p.m. Thursday at Apres in Portland, then on the roof of Bayside Bowl on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Sick of red snappers? Try an Icelandic hot dog instead

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• Best Places to Visit in Canada: Don't Miss Québec City

Canada is a must-see destination, from the Pacific Coast, Rocky Mountains and the Prairies to the great lakes, boreal forests, and maritimes. Canada sightseeing will leave you breathless and begging to stay longer. Finding cool things to do in Canada won’t take long. 

A trip to Canada is not complete without spending time in Québec City. As a UNESCO world heritage treasure, Québec City is the most European city in North America and considered one of the best destinations in Eastern Canada. 

What is the Most Famous Thing in Canada?

What is Canada famous for? Hockey, maple syrup , poutine , moose, igloos, and the Royal Mounted Police have become pop culture icons of Canada, but we are also famous for our great outdoors, diverse cities, and lively culture. 

In the province of Québec, we’re famous for our French Canadian culture , St. Lawrence River, boreal forest and Laurentian mountains. We love that Québec City is one of the most famous destinations in Canada, with its Château Frontenac , authentic historic old city, and magical winter wonderland . It’s also home to one of the best winter festivals in Canada, Carnaval de Québec . 

The only fortified city north of Mexico and the birthplace of French Canada, the historic district of Old Québec was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1985. Known for the world-famous Château Frontenac, Québec City is also known for its rich history , cobblestone streets, European architecture and fortifications. It's a piece of Europe in Canada. 

Spend time in Petit-Champlain , enjoy one of the oldest shopping streets in North America, experience Québec City’s religious heritage through its basilicas and churches, and immerse yourself in the city’s military history with visits to the Plains of Abraham , the fortifications and the Citadelle . 

Where Should I Travel in Canada?

Canada is the second largest country in the world, and there is an abundance of Canada attractions to discover and enjoy. From the Canadian Rocky Mountains and glacial lakes in Western Canada, grasslands and lakes in the Prairies, to boreal forests, the Laurentian mountains, and charming cities and islands in Eastern Canada, there is an abundance of things to do in Canada on this huge territory. 

It takes about seven days to drive from one end of Canada to the other, so when you’re planning your trip to Canada, we recommend choosing Western Canada or Eastern Canada or choosing a specific province to enjoy, like Québec. Of course, you don’t have to drive, you can also fly between provinces, or take a train with VIA Rail. The train journey from Vancouver to Toronto is 4 days and 3 nights, and a train to Montréal or Québec City will add about 5-8 hrs to your travel time. 

The best Canada tourist attractions can be found stretched across the country. In the province of Québec, you can discover the vibrant cities of Montréal and Québec City, as well as lovely landscapes along the St. Lawrence River in Charlevoix, Bas Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie. In Québec City, the most popular Canada attractions include Château Frontenac , Old Québec City and its fortifications, Ice Hotel , Montmorency Falls and Île d’Orléans . 

Québec City is hands down one of the most charming places in Canada, and the heart of Old Québec City will truly give you a little taste of Europe here in Canada. It has quickly become one of my favourite destinations for so many reasons. From the stunning architecture, to the incredible culinary scene, and all of the amazing things there are to do here during your visit. Québec City is a constant reminder to me that you really don't have to leave Canada to find beauty, and get that mesmerizing feeling that travel brings into our lives. If you've never been to Québec City, do yourself a favour and add this gem to your travel plans this year! - Kirsten Wendlandt, Montréal based travel blogger

Is Canada Very Expensive? 

A destination’s affordability fluctuates depending on the areas you visit, as well as your home currency. In Canada, travellers from the USA and Europe will find their money goes further due to favourable exchange rates.     Accommodations are usually more expensive in large cities, and your decisions about what to do in Canada will also impact your travel budget. Eastern Canada is generally less expensive than Western Canada, making the province of Québec an ideal destination for travellers considered about the budget. 

Québec City in Canada is a great city for travellers with lower budgets , and home to popular Canada points of interest like Château Frontenac, Petit-Champlain, and the historic district of Old Québec. Québec City is also close to nature —the downtown core is surrounded by lush parks and spectacular natural sites. Cross the footbridge over Montmorency Falls , which is 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls, hike the magnificent glacial valley of Jacques-Cartier National Park , observe the fascinating spectacle of whales in the St. Lawrence River or take the oldest road in Canada to cross pretty villages... The surrounding areas are the perfect combination for a trip where you can enjoy a great city and nature wonders. 

What is the Best Time to Visit Canada? 

Honestly, Canada is beautiful any time of year, thanks to the diversity of landscapes found throughout the country. Sure, some seasons shine more than others, but we can sincerely say that beauty can be found throughout Canada all year round. 

Summer is a popular time of year for must-see places in Canada, such as Vancouver, Banff, Niagara, Québec, and the Maritime provinces. In summer, Québec City is alive with festivals like Festival d’été de Québec and New France Festival , street performers and many exciting events. 

Exploring autumn landscapes, with its ruby red, golden yellows, and rusty oranges is one of the best things to do in Canada, especially in Eastern Canada where there is a high concentration of maple trees. Québec is obviously one of our favourite autumn destinations in Canada. 

Winter welcomes in a new set of fun things to do in Canada. While Western Canada is most famous for its skiing and snowboarding, Québec is a perfect winter destination for many winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, tubing, skating and winter fat biking.  

In Québec City, the streets of Old Québec turn into a winter wonderland, and one of Canada’s top places to visit. In winter, embrace the snow and marvel at the only ice hotel in North America and enjoy the festivities of Québec Winter Carnival . During the Holidays , the historic district of Old Québec turns into a living Christmas card with its holiday lights and German Christmas market . 

Spring is a season of renewal, and we love watching trees and flowers coming back to life. Plus, it’s also sugar shack season in Québec, meaning we gather around large tables at a sugar shack, enjoy a meal of traditional Québécois foods (hello, tourtière, baked beans, and maple syrup sweets!), dance on folk music, and indulge with maple taffy. 

What is the Best Month to Visit Canada? 

In summer, July is one of the best months to visit Canada. In Eastern Canada, summer is officially started after a long winter and spring and the locals are happy to enjoy outdoors and events. 

In Québec, summer is a time of music festivals and outdoor adventures. Québec City is one of the best places to visit in Canada during summer, with its historic district of Old Québec, charming shopping streets, museums, events and outdoors nearby.  

In winter, January is one of the best months to visit Canada. Sure, it’s one of the coldest months, but that’s what makes it amazing and exotic. In Québec, January is perfect for outdoor winter sports. In Québec City, the Ice Hotel opens its doors, children fly down snowy hills on inner tubes, and the city is a true winter wonderland. 

What is the Most Visited Place in Canada? 

Niagara Falls reigns supreme on lists of Canada's top places to visit, followed by Toronto, Montréal, Vancouver, Québec City, Banff, Victoria, Ottawa, Calgary, and Whistler. These remarkable destinations are home to some of the best things to visit in Canada. 

In Québec province, contemplating Montréal vs Québec City is an exciting prospect. Each city is vibrant and features complementary vibes. One is an electrifying multicultural metropolis, the other is a cozy and refreshing city showcasing an authentic experience of French Canadian culture. 

Rated as the best destination in Canada for a eighth year in a row in 2023 by Travel + Leisure readers, Québec City has also been named as the 5 th best city in the world outside the United States by Condé Nast Traveler in 2022. 

The historic district of Old Québec , a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most visited place in Québec City, followed closely by Île d’Orléans and Montmorency waterfalls , which stands at 83 meters tall (272 ft), making it 30 meters (98.5ft) taller than Niagara Falls!  

What to Do in Québec, Canada? 

Buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable vacation to Canada. There are so many places in the province of Québec filled with religious, historic, cultural, and Indigenous experiences ; truly some of the best attractions in Canada can be found here.  

What to do in Québec City ? We are so glad you asked that question! Start in the historic district of Old Québec , the birthplace of French Canada, then get ready to immerse yourself in our French Canadian culture and traditions. Visit museums and explore the outdoors . Attend world-class festivals such as Festival d’été de Québec and Carnaval de Québec. Savour our delicious Québec terroir (and take home plenty of foodie souvenirs), and enjoy the warmth and friendliness of our locals. 

Québec City is also a foodie’s heaven! With many must-do food experiences , Québec City is the perfect city to immerse yourself in traditional Québécois dishes like poutine and tourtière. Maple syrup is a key ingredient in almost every Québécois dish. Make time to acquaint yourself with Québec City’s craft beer scene , visiting local breweries and picking up various craft beers from stores found throughout the city. The French cuisine found in Québec City is among some of the best in Canada, from bistro style to fine dining. We highly recommend to discover the best fine dining restaurants in Old Québec. 

Where is Québec City in Canada?

Are Québec City and Québec the same? No, not at all. Québec City is the capital city within the province of Québec, in Canada. As the provincial capital, Québec City is home to the province’s Parliament and National Assembly. Located about 250 km east of Montréal, Québec City sits on the banks of the St. Lawrence River.

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