Quebec City

Overview

Discover the real meaning of joie de vivre in Quebec City. High-spirited and stylish, much like the people who live there, Quebec City radiates with a unique charm and sophistication. Combined with its distinctly European flair, this city is the perfect place to shop, dine and explore some of Canada's top attractions.

Begin your trip with a walking tour of the Historic District of Old Quebec (Vieux-Quebec), which will take you to landmarks such as the Chateau Frontenac – part historical artifact, part luxury hotel and part architectural eye candy.

Rue du Petit-Champlain is next. The oldest street in North America, it's alive with cafes, boutiques and restaurants. Next, visit the historic Plains of Abraham (Plaines d'Abraham) and Battlefields Park (Parc des Champs-de-Bataille). Reminiscent of New York City's Central Park, this large urban park offers a unique taste of Quebec history. And don't miss Terrasse Dufferin. This long, wooden boardwalk offers stunning views of the majestic St. Lawrence River.

One of the most famous events in Quebec City is Carnaval de Quebec – the largest winter festival in the world. You may have heard about carnival mascot Bonhomme Carnaval, but did you know he has his own ice palace? Come check it out during Carnaval, and while you're here, grab a front-row seat to an ice sculpture competition, sample delicious Canadian maple products and check out the live entertainment.

When you're ready to come in from the cold, Quebec's wide range of cafes, bistros and fine dining restaurants await you. Or, stop by Chez Ashton – a fast-food joint that serves up some of the best poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds) in the whole province.

And you'll find even more to do just outside of the city. Outdoor enthusiasts love Charlevoix – Quebec's backyard playground in the Laurentian Mountains. Located just two hours from Quebec City by car, this is where you'll find fabulous mountainside resorts and plenty of skiing, snowboarding, skating, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, golfing and so much more.

The Charlevoix region has also become a refuge for visual artists, poets, writers and those in search of fresh air, picturesque views and a bit of inspiration. So whether you're vacationing with family or thrill-seeking with friends, you'll find everything you’re looking for in this protected World Biosphere Reserve nestled beside the north shores of the St. Lawrence River.

Quebec City is a fantastic destination for:

culture and history
shopping and dining
romance

Airport Served by: Aéroport international Jean-Lesage Québec

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Destination Basics

Climate

Travelling to Quebec City in the summertime? Pack your favourite short sleeve shirts and shorts. Visiting in the winter? You’ll want to bring a sweater, snow gear and maybe some long underwear if you’re planning to spend time out on the hills or in the parks.

Summer temperatures here typically reach highs in the mid 20s C, while winter temperatures range from -10 C to -17 C, perfect for skiing and spending time at Quebec’s famed Carnaval. Spring and fall tend to be short in the Quebec City region with a wide range of seasonal and not-so-seasonal temperatures that vary by year.

Average monthly temperature and average monthly rainfall diagrams for Quebec City

Highlights

5 things you'll want to do.

1. Old Québec, Stroll North America's oldest streets
Walk along the fortified walls surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage Site and admire the view from every angle.

2. Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec
Appreciate fine art at the world’s largest collection of Québec art.

3. Wendake
Experience HuronWendat culture in Wendake, the beating heart of the HuronWendat Nation. Share in their long history, culture, and traditional knowledge as you take in dancing, hear stories and legends, and visit the HuronWendat Museum and the authentic craft stores in the village, located right within Québec City. 

4. Jacques-Cartier National Park
Explore one of Québec’s most dazzling glacial valleys, JacquesCartier National Park, a vast and mountainous plateau crisscrossed by deep valleys and rivers, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. 

5.  Île d'Orléans
Connect with local artisans on a day trip full of history and flavours. Stop in at the many artisan outlets and farm stands around the island for a delicious sampling of local products.

Explore more of Quebec City's must see attractions.