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15 Beautiful Places to Visit in Quebec City [That You CANNOT Miss Out On!]
- Old Quebec City
- Place Royale
- Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec
- Promenade Samuel-De Champlain
- Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
- Quartier Petit Champlain
- Plains of Abraham
- La Citadelle de Québec
- Montmorency Falls
- Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
- Museum of Civilization
- Les Galeries de la Capitale
- Rue du Trésor
- Sanctuaire Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré
- La Cale du Port de Québec
There’s nothing like the beauty of the French-speaking city of Quebec. The spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River, the magnificent architecture, and the many activities to do are not to be missed!!
If you haven’t been to this beautiful city, there are so many sights to see that it can feel overwhelming because you want to make sure your time is worthwhile. I know I wished I made a list when I first visited because I didn’t want to miss anything!
To make your trip an awesome one, we’ve listed our favourite places in Quebec City you should definitely see! Whether you’re a history buff, a sightseer, or an adventurer, we’ve got just what you need, so read on!
Old Quebec City
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Location: Old Quebec City
Strolling the streets of Old Quebec is a no-brainer. This charming historic neighbourhood is a UNESCO World Heritage treasure and easily one of the most stunning places you will see in the province of Quebec.
The whimsical narrow cobblestone streets will take you to enchanting shops and beautiful streets. The place is so beautiful, you can take a bunch of gorgeous pictures for the ‘gram!
If it’s your first time coming to Quebec City, you can join a guided walking tour to avoid getting lost, where you’ll basically see the popular sites and learn about the city’s rich history. If you want to explore on your own, follow the GPS of the self-guided tour!
Pro Tip:
Quebec City is a very walkable city. During your visit, make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes (remember: you’ll mostly walk on cobblestone streets).
Place Royale
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Location: 2-4 Rue des Pains Bénits
History buffs will love Place Royale. In the early 1600s, at this very place, Samuel de Champlain established the first permanent French settlement, which is now the City of Quebec.
Architecture lovers will also have a grand time exploring the place. The structures are a mix of French and British influences, with some modern architecture sprinkled here and there.
You can take a break from strolling the streets at the picturesque town square. Then, walk to the small road going to Rue Sous-le-Fort, which will take you to the funicular, a 45° angled ride that links the Quartier Petit-Champlain to Dufferin Terrace.
Pro Tips:
While you’re here, visit the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires (Our Lady of Victories), a small church built in stone regarded to be the oldest of its kind.
Do note the church is closed from November to May (except on Sundays), so check the updated schedule if you want to see it.
Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec
Location: 16 Rue du Petit Champlain
Contact: (418) 692-1132, [email protected]
Admission: $5 per person
If you’re anywhere in the area of Petit-Champlain or Terrasse Dufferin, you’ll probably come across the funicular (or funiculaire in French).
This is basically an elevator that lifts at a 45° angle and links Dufferin Terrace, Petit-Champlain, Place-Royale, and Old Port. There are two entrances: the main one is at Louis-Jolliet House and the upper level is on Dufferin Terrace.
And no, this isn’t simply an elevator ride. You can also admire the magnificent views of the St. Lawrence River, as well as the Lower Town of Quebec City—so get your cameras ready!
Pro Tip:
Although they accept both CAD and USD, we suggest paying in CAD since they will not give you an exchange rate.
Promenade Samuel-De Champlain
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Location: 2795 Bd Champlain
A calming and picturesque place to visit in Quebec City is Promenade Samuel-De Champlain, a 6.8 km path extending from Pierre-Laporte bridge to Côte Gilmour. It’s the perfect spot for morning walks or biking.
You can enjoy strolling the park while taking in the fresh air and breathtaking views of St. Lawrence River. When you reach Station de la Plage (along the boardwalk of Samuel-De Champlain), you can cool off at the infinity pool or relax on the sandy beach.
There are plenty of areas along the pathway for sports activities. If it’s crowded at the beach, you can go to Station de la Voile, where you can enjoy a quiet day at the park—there’s a picnic area you can use for afternoon breaks!
Pro Tip:
We recommend watching the sunrise or sunset on the boardwalk. The stunning skyline and the river views are perfect photo opportunities!
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
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Location: 1 Rue des Carrières
Contact:
- Global Reservation Centre: 1 (800) 257-7544, 1 (888) 610-7575 (Français)
- International Toll-Free (room reservations only): (800) 0441-1414
Why should you visit a hotel in Quebec, you ask? The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, built in the 1890s, is actually an iconic landmark in the city.
You’ve probably come across this gorgeous place because it’s so famous, having witnessed historic events and welcomed famous people. This is a prime example of château-style hotels that were built by railway companies in the country.
This luxury hotel in Upper Town, which rests on top of Cape Diamond, provides the most magnificent views of the St. Lawrence River (you have to witness sunsets here!).
If you do plan to stay, you will have the most lavish experience because of the European-style rooms, luxury amenities, and top-notch service!
Pro Tip:
Head outside of Château Frontenac on the wooden sidewalk (next to the St. Lawrence River) to visit Dufferin Terrace. It’s a popular place among locals and tourists, where you can take gorgeous photos and watch street performers.
Quartier Petit Champlain
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Location: 61 Rue du Petit Champlain
The street of Quartier Petit Champlain, located in Old Quebec, is one of the most magical places you will see in the city. It’s actually a small commercial street, making it a popular spot for tourists.
The street is lined with charming shops and restaurants, perfect for trying out local food and buying souvenirs. The place is absolutely stunning as if it came out of a movie! In the winter, the street is even more lively, as it’s decked out for the holiday!
The popular Rue du Cul-De-Sac, or Umbrella Alley, can be found here. If you haven’t seen that famous photo, it’s where umbrellas float above the street in Quebec City!
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to try local restaurants for some delicious Quebecois food! It’s natural to get lost in your thoughts as you absorb the beauty of the place, so make sure to stop by the shops!
Plains of Abraham
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Location: Plains of Abraham
Plains of Abraham is not just a massive, beautiful park. This is a historical site where the French lost the battle to the Brits, which ultimately decided the fate of New France.
Nowadays, locals and visitors can explore the place and learn about Quebec City’s history. You can visit the museum and check out the exhibitions.
During the winter in Quebec, the park turns into a snow wonderland! Enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing with stunning views of the frozen St. Lawrence River!
Pro Tip:
In the summer, there are plenty of activities to enjoy at the Plains of Abraham. You can watch canon and firing demonstrations and join in on treasure hunts.
La Citadelle de Québec
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Location: 1 Côte de la Citadelle
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
Guided Tour:
- Adult: $22
- Senior: $20
- Adult student: $20
- 11 – 17 Years Old: $8
- 10 Years Old and Under: $0
Quebec has a rich history, and one of the places you have to visit is the La Citadelle de Quebec, commonly called La Citadelle. It’s an active military base and North America’s largest British fortress, located atop Cape Diamond.
Everyone is welcome to join the guided tours and visit the museum, as well as watch the musical performance by the Royal 22nd Regiment band. You can purchase a ticket on the website to learn more about the 300-year history of this national historic site.
Pro Tips:
Check the weather app first before buying a ticket. If you have kids, you might want to avoid the rainy season for safety since the guided tours will push through rain or shine.
If you want to watch the musical performance, visit Wednesday to Sunday from June 26th to September 1st (dates are subject to change). Keep in mind that it will get cancelled when it rains.
Montmorency Falls
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Location: Montmorency Falls
Nature lovers will enjoy the spectacular Montmorency Falls, the tallest falls in Quebec at a height of 83 m (275 ft). In fact, it’s 30 m taller than the Niagara Falls!
It’s close to Old Quebec, taking only a 15-minute drive. If you want to avoid parking, take the #800 bus from T. Beauport Station and stop at #3473.
To get to the majestic falls, you can ride a cable car to the top or walk the suspended bridge if you’re brave enough. For adrenaline junkies, zipline 300 m in the air!
Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting in the summer or until October, it’s highly recommended you purchase a ticket in advance. Visit in the morning to avoid large crowds in the afternoon.
Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
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Location: 16 Rue De Buade
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 7:30 am – 4 pm
- Saturday: 7:30 am – 5:30 pm
- Sunday: 8:30 am – 5 pm
The beautiful architecture of the Notre-Dame-de-Quebec Cathedral-Basilica is not to be missed! As the oldest church in Canada, it’s definitely a must-visit when you’re in Quebec!
Its storied past includes being destroyed by the fire in 1750 during the Siege of Quebec, rebuilt, and again devastated by the fire in 1922. In 1989, it became a national historic site of Canada.
Even though it has undergone several reconstructions in the past, it still remains a beautiful cathedral that will leave you in awe. The stained-glass windows, golden statue, and intricate interior are worth seeing.
Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting in the summer, you can join guided tours to learn more about the church. Note that the tours will only take place during visiting hours.
Museum of Civilization
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Location: 85 Rue Dalhousie
Contact: (418) 643–2158, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
Admission:
- 35 – 64 Years: $26
- 65 and Over: $25
- 5 and Under: Free
- 6 – 11 Years: $5.50
- 12 – 17 Years: $9
- 18 – 34 Years: $21
History geeks will have a grand time at the Museum of Civilization, a place that will take you back in time to learn about Quebec and its people. Take a trip to the permanent and temporary exhibitions and delve into Quebecois culture, stories, and society issues.
If you want to feel more involved, join the guided tours and conferences. Then, take a trip down to the boutique for souvenirs, where they have jewellery, books, and handcrafted items from local and international designers.
Pro Tip:
To save up to $3, purchase your ticket online (but make sure you do it on the website).
Les Galeries de la Capitale
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Location: 5401 Bd des Galeries
Contact: (418) 627-5800, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday: 10 am – 6 pm
- Thursday – Friday: 10 am – 9 pm
- Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm
- Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
If you want to take a break and shop, the Les Galeries de la Capitale is a family-friendly shopping mall you can visit in Quebec City. It’s pretty huge, with 280 international and local stores for your shopping spree!
But that’s not all you can do here. Inside, you’ll find Méga Parc, an 86,000 sq ft amusement park. Go ahead and ride Zénith, North America’s first spokeless Ferris wheel or take a trip on Télégraphe, an aerial roller coaster!
You can also enjoy the aviary inside the mall and meet beautiful butterflies. Bfly is a magical and interactive experience where you will see up close over 300 butterflies!
Pro Tip:
If you’re bringing a vehicle, don’t forget that you cannot park in the parking lot outside of the mall’s opening hours. You might get towed!
Rue du Trésor
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Location: Rue du Trésor
Don’t go to a narrow alleyway when a stranger tells you, but this time, you have to! Rue du Trésor is a narrow street lined with artists displaying their paintings, sketches, reproductions, and various artworks!
It actually started in the 1960s when two artists decided to exhibit and sell their paintings on this street. Then, other artists followed suit, and the rest is history!
It’s a pathway where you can stop, look, and purchase artwork made by local artists. It’s the ultimate arts hub because it feels like a small community but is an open-air gallery for everyone who wants to drop by.
Pro Tip:
Bring cash if you’re coming here because, most likely, you won’t find a lot of vendors who accept card payments.
Sanctuaire Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré
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Location: 10018 Ave Royale, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré
Sanctuaire Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré is not exactly inside Quebec City, but it is only 20 minutes away. This is one of the must-visit places in the city because it’s over 350 years old (that’s part of history, no doubt!).
The fact alone that this is a Shrine for Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary and the grandmother of Jesus Christ, makes this a cannot-miss in Quebec.
This magnificent basilica is truly a masterpiece that will wow you, with stained-glass windows, magnificent paintings, impressive statues, and an intricate interior.
Pro Tip:
If you want to go to mass, check the schedule since they may change depending on the season. Not all masses will be in French, so look for the English timeslots.
La Cale du Port de Québec
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Location: 84 Rue Dalhousie
Contact: [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday – Sunday: 11 am – 11 pm
Price: $$
If you want to experience relaxation in the summer, head over to La Cale du Port de Quebec, a resort in the middle of the city! Sure, this is also a bar, but it’s actually family-friendly as well!
You can gather with your friends and family and relax in the chairs in the pool (there are 530 seats to accommodate many people)! It’s a truly unique experience because you can sip thirst-quenching cocktails while soaking your feet!
The best part is it’s like you’ve been transported to a tropical paradise. It’s a bar-slash-resort in the historical Quebec City!
Pro Tip:
If you’re a picky eater, you can bring your own food. But note that bringing outside alcoholic drinks is not allowed.
