The Best Travel Guide to Quebec City (UPDATED 2024) | ArrivalGuides.com

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Quebec City

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North America Canada Quebec City

Overview

Quebec City The guide was updated: 2024-10-01

It all started in 1535, when Jacques Cartier landed here, and the first trading port was created in what is now Quebec. Since then, the city has become the province's capital and a popular destination for its sights, architecture, and food. Visit the famous Château Frontenac, the world's most photographed hotel, or one of the many national historic sites, each a sight to behold in its own right. But walking through the Old Port or the Plains of Abraham is, perhaps, the best way to feel and breathe in the historical atmosphere of the city.

Facts

Population:	557,375 (2024)
Currency:	Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police, fire, and ambulance services: 911 Info-Santé (Non-urgent health concerns): 811
Newspapers:	Le Journal de Québec: www.journaldequebec.com Le Soleil: www.lesoleil.com Quebec Chronicle-Telegraph
Website:	www.bonjourquebec.com/en-ca
Opening hours:	Standard banking hours are generally from 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday. Some branches extend their hours on Thursdays and Fridays, staying open later into the afternoon or early evening. As for business hours, shopping centers and most stores typically follow this schedule: Monday to Wednesday from 9:30am to 5:30pm, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 9pm, Saturday from 9:30am to 5pm, and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. These hours tend to extend during the holiday season, particularly in December, and may also be longer in high-tourist areas.
Tourist information:	Tourist Information Center 12 Rue Sainte-Anne, Québec +1 514 873 2015 Opening hours: daily 9am–5pm

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Section in Quebec City

Quebec City is so picturesque that you might at some point forget it's a real city. The narrow streets and tiny houses will take you back in time and away from what you would expect of a North American city. However, if the shops, cafés, and restaurants are adorable, the streets and monuments will remind you of the historical importance of Quebec.

Old Quebec

Old Quebec

Nestled along the majestic St. Lawrence River, Old Quebec stands as a living testament to Canada's rich history and European heritage. This charming district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern vitality. Its cobbled streets, fortified walls, and iconic Château Frontenac evoke a sense of timeless beauty, while lively cafés, boutique shops, and cultural treasures breathe life into the city.

Quartier Petit Champlain

Quartier Petit Champlain

Quartier Petit Champlain is a historic neighborhood in Old Quebec City, known for its charming cobblestone streets, quaint shops, cozy bistros, and artisan boutiques. This picturesque district offers visitors a glimpse of North America's oldest commercial area.

Basse-Ville

Basse-Ville

Basse-Ville, often considered the most Parisian-like neighborhood in Quebec, invites you to immerse yourself in its charming atmosphere. Wander through the quaint cobblestone alleys while enjoying the sounds of street musicians, or pop into one of the many cozy bistros for a taste of local flavors. In addition to relaxing and people-watching, visitors can explore an eclectic mix of boutiques offering everything from fashion to unique souvenirs.

The Citadelle of Quebec

The Citadelle of Quebec

A visit to Quebec City wouldn’t be complete without exploring La Citadelle, an active military installation and an essential part of the city's history. This iconic fortress also serves as the secondary official residence of the Canadian monarch and the Governor General of Canada. During the summer months (June 24 through the first Monday of September), visitors can witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard at 10am. Keep in mind that guided tours are mandatory for visiting, but these are very entertaining and interactive.

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral

In the heart of the shopping district lies the iconic Basilique-Cathédrale, the oldest church in Canada, with architecture inspired by the large French cathedrals. As you walk inside, you're confronted with an impressive altar and its golden trimmings shining brightly in the light. Photos simply cannot capture the true beauty of this church.

Montmorency Falls

Montmorency Falls

Towering at 83 meters, Montmorency Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder just minutes from Quebec City. Surrounded by lush forests, the roaring waterfall offers visitors a serene yet exhilarating experience. You can admire the falls from various vantage points, take a cable car to the top for sweeping panoramic views, or venture along hiking trails to get up close to this magnificent waterfall. For the more adventurous, a suspension bridge spans the top of the falls, offering an unmatched perspective of the rushing waters below.

Ghost Walks

Ghost Walks

Embark on a spine-tingling journey through Quebec's historic streets with a ghost walking tour that will send shivers down your spine. As night falls, you'll follow Marie as she tells the story of her life and death, and the crimes and punishment during her time in Quebec City. Along the way, several other characters will pop up and greet you.

National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec

National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec

Situated within the National Battlefields Park, the Musée National des Beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ) seamlessly blends aesthetics and elegance, with its exterior revealing sweeping vistas of the park's lush green landscapes, while the interior showcases a captivating collection of remarkable artworks. The building itself is already a grand work of art.

Morrin Centre

Morrin Centre

The Morrin Centre offers an interesting glimpse of the history of Quebec City. Once a prison, it later transformed into a language college. Delve into its rich history through a guided tour, where you can explore the former jail cells and the Victorian library. Among the treasures housed within are artifacts dating back to the 16th century.

Canyon Sainte-Anne

Canyon Sainte-Anne

Climb up the canyon or go for a hike to cross suspension bridges and marvel at waterfalls and nature. Or — for something as rewarding but a lot less physically demanding — have a seat in the unique Air Canyon system, which catapults you straight over the canyon and allows you to observe the surroundings from a bird's perspective. The canyon is located on Highway 138, just 5 minutes from the Sainte-Anne Basilica, so both can be done within the same day.

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