Historic Quebec City

Historic quebec city
Historic quebec city
Historic quebec city
Historic quebec city
Historic quebec city
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

  • Small plate with fried sardines

    01. Restaurant La Tanière

    Tanière³, nestled in the historic vaults of Old Quebec, offers an unparalleled fine dining experience that immerses guests in the rich flavors of Quebec's boreal terroir. Established in 2019 as the third iteration of the original La Tanière, the restaurant has garnered international acclaim, earning two Michelin stars and a spot among North America's 50 Best Restaurants in 2025

  • Bowl with butter bread on a table

    02. L’affaire est Ketchup

    Meaning “all is well,” this local restaurant is full of charm and character. Once considered Quebec’s best-kept secret, this unique dining experience was quickly discovered and praised by the late Anthony Bourdain. With classic comfort dishes served to only 26 guests per night, it’s the perfect spot for an extraordinary meal.

  • Oysters on a half-shell on ice

    03. AlbaCORE

    This friendly and laid-back wine bar is a true haven for seafood lovers. At AlbaCORE, oysters and other seafood creations are perfectly paired with award-winning wines, carefully selected by the house’s experienced sommeliers. This neighborhood gem is not to be missed.

  • Martini on a bar with olives

    04. bar jjacques

    This is the cocktail bar to visit if you’re looking for an intimate and elegant space. At bar jjacques, the creations take center stage, with original and classic cocktails crafted by renowned mixologists, along with a cellar stocked with organic wines. Pair your drinks with small shareable plates highlighting seasonal ingredients, and it’s no wonder this spot was named one of the 50 best bars on Canada’s 100 Best list.

Things to do

  • Exterior of museum in Quebec City

    05. Visit Museums

    Take a history lesson by exploring the halls of some of Canada’s finest museums and galleries. In front of the Château Frontenac, visit the Musée du Fort to experience a sound and light show depicting the city’s military history. Tour the Musée National des Beaux-Arts to admire over 42,000 works by artists from the 17th century to the present day, and head to the Musée de la Civilisation to learn more about the way of life of Quebec’s Indigenous peoples and their territory throughout history.

  • View from the Citadel of Quebec

    06. Explore the Citadelle of Quebec

    This National Historic Site and UNESCO World Heritage Site holds over 300 years of history within its walls. Take an interior guided tour to explore the Citadelle de Québec this still-active garrison and fortress, which continues to house the Royal 22nd Regiment of the Canadian Forces. Don’t miss the daily changing of the guard and the noon cannon salute during your visit.

  • Skier on a groomer

    07. Ski at Four Mountains

    Alpine skiing and winter sports enthusiasts will find four exceptional resorts just minutes from Quebec City. Whether it’s family fun, kids’ activities, night skiing under the stars, enjoying the festive après-ski atmosphere, or carving turns in perfect snow, the region has something for everyone. Choose from Le Massif, Stoneham, Mont-Sainte-Anne, or Le Relais for an unforgettable winter adventure.

  • Old building with shake siding on the Île d'Orléans

    08. Day Trip to Île d’Orléans

    Explore this pastoral island located across the Saint Lawrence River, opposite downtown Quebec City. Discover charming 17th-century ancestral homes of Île d’Orléans, meet local artists and artisans, explore village shops and roadside farm stands, taste wine on vineyard terraces, and visit traditional Canadian sugar shacks. To fully experience this day trip, opt for a guided tour by kayak, e-bike, scooter, or minibus.

  • Cross country skier on a track next to the forest

    09. Visit the Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier

    Just 30 minutes from Quebec City, this renowned national park is a true attraction.
    The Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier is located in a stunning glacial valley bordered by a mountainous plateau, it embodies nature at its most serene. Explore over 100 km of hiking trails, fish in the lakes and rivers, go canoeing or kayaking, watch birds, or simply enjoy the wild beauty. In winter, the trails transform to accommodate cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking.

Unique Experiences

  • plains of abraham

    10. Walk the Plains of Abraham

    Don’t miss the chance to visit one of Canada’s most important historic sites. The Parc des Champs-de-Bataille is where French troops were defeated by the British in a historic 18th-century battle. Today, the park hosts countless outdoor concerts in the summer, cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails, skating, picnic areas, and beautiful gardens. Nicknamed Quebec’s “Central Park” by locals, it’s well worth a walking visit.

  • Silhouetted crown enjoying live music

    11. Catch a Concert or Festival

    No matter the time of year, it’s hard not to come across a festival, event, or concert. Summer comes alive with outdoor concerts at Parc des Champs-de-Bataille and street performances throughout the city, while annual events keep the celebration going year-round. Don’t miss classic annual events such as the Wendake International Pow-Wow, Canada’s largest outdoor music show at the Quebec Summer Festival, fireworks over the Saint Lawrence River, the Plein Art artisan and creator festival, or the classic comedy shows at the ComediHa! Fest.

  • People walking on a festively lit street in winter

    12. Experience the Winter Carnival

    Dating back to 1955, the Quebec Carnival is one of the main reasons to visit this vibrant city in winter. Celebrated over 10 days, the city comes alive with ice sculptures, light installations, music, artwork, tubing slides, and lively shows for families, children, and friends. It’s a classic Canadian winter event not to be missed.