Things to do and see in Quebec Canada

Located in the province of the same name on the St. Lawrence River, Quebec City is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Canada. Quebec was designed in the purest French style which is more than palpable in every one of its streets and buildings. Beyond its undeniable architectural beauty, you will find an endless number of things to do in this city, both cultural and rural.

If that’s not reason enough for you to visit, you should also know that its old town, Old Quebec, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a pedestrian city par excellence, which will allow you to discover its true charm at every turn.

Organise your travel itinerary with Passporter, completely free to use, easy and practical. Get inspired by the experiences of other travellers and choose the places that interest you most by adding them to your route map.

Things to do in Quebec

Old Quebec

Old Quebec is a collection of architectural treasures that stand in stark contrast to other Canadian and American cities. In fact, all this monumental beauty has given it a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

The old part of the city is divided into two parts, and is made up of charming pedestrian streets. The upper part, called Haute Ville, is nestled on top of a hill. The lower part is known as Basse Ville which stretches alongside the old port. Without a doubt, it is the most charming and important part of Quebec Canada and an area that you can’t miss.

The main streets of the old town are lined with historic buildings, palaces, small shops and quaint restaurants. Don’t miss Rue Saint-Jean, Rue Saint Louis, as well as Rue du Petit Champlain and Rue du Trésor.

Château Frontenac

The iconic Château Frontenac, perched on a cliff, has been the jewel in Old Town’s crown for over 125 years. Chateau Frontenac is Canada’s most treasured hotel and the place you’ll want to spend your holiday in Canada. It is a historic hotel that is also one of Quebec City’s most popular attractions.

Built at the end of the 19th century by the Canadian Pacific Railway, the Château Frontenac has French-inspired décor. This hotel towers over Quebec City with its steep rooftops, huge towers and tall chimneys. Hotel Chateau Frontenac, one of the most photographed hotels in the world and a must-see on your trip to Quebec Canada.

Dufferin Terrace

This walk along the banks of the St. Lawrence River offers the best views of the Chateau Frontenac. This platform was built in 1879 on the orders of Lord Dufferin, the governor general of Canada, hence its name. In addition, this footbridge connects the chateau with the citadel of Quebec, perfect for continuing your walking tour of the city. In summer, this place becomes the centre of leisure in the city. There are often street performers and even a book market.

Petit-Champlain

Petit-Champlain is one of the most iconic and beautiful streets in the city. You’ll be able to stroll among the local artists and craftsmen of Québec. It’s a street you can stroll down at your own pace and discover every little corner of it. You’ll soon understand why everyone loves Petit-Champlain.

The boutiques of Petit-Champlain, one of the oldest shopping streets in North America, sell beautiful products created by local artisans. It is one of the best streets to find original and interesting souvenirs of the city. This street also becomes a real Christmas spectacle during the winter holidays, full of decorations and ornaments that give it a much more cosy and magical atmosphere.

Place Royale

It is a famous cobbled square surrounded by 17th and 18th century buildings that will take you back in time. It is considered the birthplace of French America, as the first French settlement was established on this very spot in 1608. 

The Place Royale was the site of the central market for more than 200 years and was the centre of the city’s commercial activity. To discover Quebec’s heritage, a visit to this square is a must on your tour of the city.

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral

The Church of Notre-Dame is one of the oldest in the city and was erected on the site of the city’s first settlement. Inside you can admire works of art and a fortress-like altar. The neoclassical façade, the asymmetrical towers, the stained glass windows and the three Casavant organs are some of the wonders of this architectural masterpiece that will captivate you as soon as you see it.

Parliament Building

This is Quebec’s first National Historic Site, a fantastic work of architecture. It is an eye-catching eight-storey building dominated by a front tower, with statues surrounding some of its windows. The garden has more than a hundred varieties of fruit and vegetables.

Old Port of Quebec Canada

There is no denying the charm of the streets of Old Port, located just a few steps from the St. Lawrence River. The many antique shops on Saint-Paul Street are living proof of Québec City’s closeness to history. The Old Port is the best place to shop for antiques and art in Quebec Canada. You can start on Saint-Paul Street and work your way up to Saint-Pierre Street. There’s nothing like strolling through the small art galleries in this area of the city, while discovering the amazing talent of Quebec artists.

Citadelle

The Citadelle of Quebec is the oldest military construction in Canada. This national historic site is located at the top of Cap Diamant, in Old Quebec. Its ramparts hold 300 years of history. The citadel is the residence of the country’s governor, and also still serves as a military facility. Its construction began in 1673 with the aim of protecting the city.

In addition to strolling around this historic site, you can to see several exhibitions on Canada’s military history. From the end of June until the first weekend of September, you can watch the changing of the guard at 10am every day.

Maison de la Littérature

Truly worth visiting, this former church has been converted into a library. The exterior still looks like the first Gothic church built in the city in 1848. But when you enter you will find a modern and original space. The white, minimalist furniture contrasts completely with the building’s facade, a combination that makes it well worth a visit.

Things to do in and around Quebec Canada

Montmorency Falls

Less than a quarter of an hour’s drive from the city centre, these imposing waterfalls forge a unique landscape. At 83 metres high, it’s the highest waterfall in the state of Quebec and, interestingly, 30 metres higher than the famous Niagara Falls. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you can go zip-lining or climb one of the three via ferratas if climbing is your thing. There is also a cable car where you can admire the lush surroundings. 

Jacques-Cartier National Park

This is one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in Quebec. Jacques-Cartier National Park is a provincial park located 50 kilometres north of Quebec City, Canada. The park aims to protect wildlife in the Laurentian Massif.

This vast plateau and its rivers is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, a canoe or kayak trip, a hike or a snowshoe walk, a fishing trip or a few days of camping can be transformed into a magnificent expedition in a lush environment.

Île d’Orléans

The Ile d’Orléans offers you a country getaway in its villages, farmhouses, churches and centuries-old houses. The Ile d’Orléans is a true rural paradise located on the St. Lawrence River, barely five kilometres east of the city. Here, travellers discover one of those hidden treasures that make a trip special.

You can watch artisans at work or stop at the many market stalls to taste the endless amount of local delicacies.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

What to do in Quebec in 2 days?

This city has the advantage of being very walkable. That’s why it’s so easy to get around every point of interest and discover the best of the city in two days. Take a look at this possible two-day itinerary of Quebec City.

Day 1:

• Old Quebec 
• Château Frontenac
• Dufferin Terrace
• Petit-Champlain
• Citadelle 
• Place Royale
• Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral

Day 2:

• Parliament Building
• Old Port
• Maison de la Littérature
• Ile d’Orléans

What to do in Quebec in 3 days?

If you have three days in Quebec City, don’t hesitate to take a trip on your third day. You can visit Montmorency Falls or the Jacques-Cartier National Park, both of which are stunning natural sites that are sure to leave you speechless.

Tips for your trip to Quebec

• Don’t forget to bring warm clothes and shoes. Temperatures in Quebec range from -15°C to 26°C.
• Although French is the official language and English is the second language, Spanish is also widely spoken in the main tourist sites. 
• Travellers will need a valid passport and, depending on the length of stay, a visa. Consult the official website of the consulate for more information: Citoyenneté et Immigration Canada.
• In Quebec, people are very conscious and concerned about their natural resources. They maintain all the city’s parks and nature reserves with great care and cleanliness.
• Tipping is customary in local restaurants, so be sure to stick to their customs and leave a tip of about 10% of the price of your meal.
• Use the Passporter App to organise your travel itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions about your trip to Quebec Canada