Historic Quebec City
There is a charm and wonder to Canada’s most historic city. The old blends with the new for a destination unlike any other in North America.
This is a city where food is celebrated and around every corner, you’ll find cocktail bars and hidden gastronomic hideaways with award-winning chefs cooking up unique cuisine. It’s a place where spectacular fine dining experiences stand alongside Canada’s oldest grocery store. Visitors can celebrate the spirit of the season at the longest-standing winter carnival in the country or take a day trip to four major ski resorts that surround the city. Cobblestone streets can lead to historic sites and monuments, while outdoor parks are host to festivals and events that keep the city alive year-round. There is never a dull moment in this special urban playground full of character and picturesque surroundings. It is no wonder that this metropolis lays claim to being the most beautiful city in Canada.
Our Local Favourites
Restaurants
01. Sardine
This neighbourhood classic is all about inviting guests into a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Serving up a fine selection of imported and local specialty beer, this restaurant focuses on small seasonal plates, oysters, sardines imported from Europe, and classic charcuterie.
02. L’affaire est Ketchup
Meaning “it’s all good”, this homegrown restaurant has all the local charismatic charm. Once known as Quebec City’s best kept secret, this unique dining experience was quickly discovered and praised by the late Anthony Bourdain. With classic comfort food served to only 26 people a night, this is the place for a one-of-a-kind meal.
03. AlbaCORE
This friendly and relaxed wine bar is for seafood lovers. Here oysters and seafood creations are perfectly paired with award-winning wine by experienced in-house sommeliers. This neighbourhood haunt is not to be missed.
04. jjacques
This is the cocktail bar to visit if you’re looking for an intimate and elegant space. Here the libations are the star with originals and classics created by top mixologists and a cellar full of organic wines. Pair cocktails with small shared dishes with a focus on seasonal produce and it’s no wonder this was voted as one of the 50 Best Bars on Canada's 100 Best List.
Sightseeing
05. Walk the Plains of Abraham
Don’t miss the chance to visit one of Canada’s most important historic areas. Battlefields Park is where French troops lost to the British during a historic 1700s battle. Today this park is home to endless outdoor summer concerts, cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, ice skating, picnic areas, and lush gardens. Known to locals as Quebec City’s very own “Central Park”, it’s worth a wander.
06. Visit Local Museums
Take a history lesson and walk through the halls of some of Canada’s top museums and galleries. In front of Chateau Frontenac, visit the Fort Museum to experience a sound and light show explaining the city's military history. Pop into the Museum of Fine Arts to gaze at over 42,000 pieces ranging from artists of the 17th century to the present day, and with a visit to the Museum of Civilization to learn about Indigenous people's way of life in Quebec and their home since time immemorial.
07. Wander the Citadelle of Quebec
This National Historic Site and UNESCO World Heritage site encloses over 300 years of history behind its walls. Visit inside on a guided tour to see this active garrison and fortress which is still home to the Royal 22 Regiment of the Canadian Forces. Don’t miss the daily changing of the guard and a noon-day gunshot while here.
Things to do
08. Ski Four Major Resorts
Downhill skiers and winter sports enthusiasts can get their turns in at one of four ski resorts located within minutes of the city. Experience the joy of winter with activities for families and kids, night skiing, lively après, and perfect snow at Le Massif, Soneham, Mont Sainte Anne, or Le Relais.
09. Day Trip to the Island of Orleans
Tour this island countryside situated across the St. Lawrence River from downtown Quebec City. Wander this paradise of French heritage to see classic ancestral 17th-century homes, visit with local artists and makers, pop into village shops and roadside farm stands, sip wine on vineyard terraces, and visit classic Canadian sugar shacks. For a full-day trip experience, take a guided tour by kayak, electric bike, scooter, or minibus.
10. Visit Parc National De La Jacques Cartier
Just 30 minutes from Quebec City, this famous national park is a major attraction. Located in a stunning glacial valley with views of a surrounding mountainous plateau, this park is the epitome of serene nature. Here you can hike over 100 km of trails, fish the lakes and rivers, canoe and kayak, birdwatch, or simply admire the wilderness. Come winter, trails are maintained for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-biking.
Unique Experiences
11. Catch a Concert or Festival
No matter the time of year, you’d be hard-pressed not to stumble upon a festival, event, or concert. Summer is alive with outdoor concerts in Battlefield Park and performances on city streets, while annual events keep the celebrations alive year-round. Don't miss yearly classics of Wendake International Pow-Wow, Canada's largest outdoor music show at Festival d'été de Québec, fireworks over the St. Lawrence River, festival of artisans and makers at Plein Art, or classic comedy events during ComediHa! Fest.
12. Visit During February’s Carnival
Dating back to 1955, the Quebec Winter Carnival is one of the top reasons to visit this dazzling place in winter. Celebrated over 10 days, the city comes alive with ice sculptures, light displays, music, artwork, tobogganing games, and lively entertainment for families, kids, and friends. It’s a classic Canadian winter event not to be missed.