Planning to travel to Quebec City but unsure about how many days to spend there? With its rich history, stunning architecture, and unique culture, this place has a lot to offer visitors. From exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec to taking a scenic stroll along the Saint Lawrence River, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. In this article, we take a closer look at what this beautiful destination has to offer and how much time you should allocate for your visit.
How Many Days Should You Spend In Quebec City?
Quebec City is a charming destination that offers visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. With so much to see and do in this beautiful place, it can be challenging to determine how long to stay. The number of days you should spend in Quebec City depends on your interests and the amount of time you have.
If you are interested in history, culture, and architecture, you may want to spend at least 3-4 days to fully explore the Old City and its many attractions. However, if you are short on time, you can still see the highlights of this destination in 1-2 days. Quebec City also has a vibrant food scene, so be sure to set aside time to try local specialties like poutine and maple syrup treats. Ultimately, the ideal length of stay in Quebec City depends on your interests and schedule.
What To See In Quebec City?
If you’re planning to travel to Quebec City, here are some must-see attractions to add to your itinerary:
- Old Quebec: Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Quebec City. It is a walled city with narrow streets, charming cafes, and historic buildings. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the stunning architecture of buildings like the Chateau Frontenac, the oldest hotel in North America.
- The Plains of Abraham: The Plains of Abraham is a large scenic park in Quebec City. It is the site of the famous battle between the French and British armies in 1759. Today, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities in the park, take a guided tour, or visit the museum to learn about the history of the area.
- Montmorency Falls: Located just outside of Quebec City, Montmorency Falls is a stunning waterfall that is higher than Niagara Falls. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the waterfall for a panoramic view or hike to the bottom for an up-close look.
- Quartier Petit-Champlain: Quartier Petit-Champlain is a charming neighborhood in Old Quebec. It is known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and quaint shops. Take a stroll through the area and stop for a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants.
- Citadelle of Quebec: The Citadelle of Quebec is a fortress located in Old Quebec. It is still an active military base today, but visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the fortress and its role in Canadian history.
- Observatoire de la Capitale: The Observatoire de la Capitale is located in downtown Quebec City, offering panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Climb to the top of this observation deck for spectacular panoramas day or night.
- Dufferin Terrace: Dufferin Terrace is a boardwalk located along the St. Lawrence River in Old Quebec. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the river and distant islands, as well as stroll through the promenade and visit the shops and restaurants lining its path.
- Escalier Casse-Cou: Escalier Casse-Cou, or the Breakneck Stairs, is an iconic cobblestone staircase that connects Upper Town and Lower Town in Old Quebec. The stairway has a steep grade, making it one of the city’s most challenging climbs!
- La Promenade Samuel-De Champlain: La Promenade Samuel-De Champlain is a scenic waterfront walkway that offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and Quebec City. It is a fantastic location to go for a walk or a bike ride and take in the beauty of the town.
Quebec City is a beautiful and historic place that is full of charm and character. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to take in the sights and sounds of the city, there is something for everyone.
Is Quebec City Worth Visiting?
Yes, Quebec City is definitely worth visiting! It is one of the oldest cities in North America, with a rich history and cultural heritage. The city’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is full of charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and unique shops and restaurants.
The city is also home to many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, like the Plains of Abraham and Parc de la Chute-Montmorency. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Quebec Winter Carnival and the Festival d’été de Québec. Overall, Quebec City is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Which Month Is Best To Visit Quebec City?
When it comes to deciding when is the best month for a visit to Quebec City, there are many factors to consider:
Summer (June-August)
Summer is the most popular time to visit Quebec City, and for good reason. The weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities like exploring the city’s historic district, taking a stroll along the St. Lawrence River, or enjoying a picnic in one of the many parks. Additionally, Quebec City hosts a number of festivals and events during the summer months, including the Quebec City Summer Festival and the New France Festival.
Fall (September-November)
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Quebec City, as the leaves change colors and the temperatures start to cool down. The city also hosts different festivals in September. Additionally, the fall season is a great time to sample Quebec’s famous maple syrup, as many local farms offer tours and tastings.
Winter (December-February)
Canada winter can be harsh as temperatures drop well below freezing in winter months like December and January. However, if you are looking for a festive atmosphere with plenty of celebrations and a variety of snow activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and skiing, then those colder months may be worth considering. In addition, Quebec City hosts the world-famous Quebec Winter Carnival in February, which features ice sculptures, parades, and other winter-themed activities.
Spring (March-May)
Spring is accompanied by nice temperatures that allow visitors to take advantage of outdoor activities. Additionally, the city hosts the Quebec City International Festival of Military Bands in May, which features marching bands from around the world.
Do I Need A Car In Quebec City?
It depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the activities you plan to do while in Quebec City. In general, you don’t need a car in this place, as it is quite walkable and has a good public transportation system.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Public transportation: Quebec City has an efficient and affordable public transportation system, including buses and trains. The Réseau de Transport de la Capitale (RTC) operates buses throughout the town and in the surrounding suburbs. The fares are reasonable, and there are various options, including single tickets, day passes, and multi-day passes.
- Walking and biking: Quebec City is a pedestrian-friendly place with many attractions located within walking distance of each other. You can explore the city’s historic districts, such as Old Quebec, on foot and take in the sights at your own pace. There are also many bike rental companies that offer a great way to explore the city’s bike paths and scenic routes.
- Parking: If you decide to rent a car in Quebec City, be aware that parking can be challenging. The city’s historic districts have narrow streets and limited parking, and the parking rates can be quite high.
Can I Speak English In Quebec City?
Yes, you can speak in English in Quebec City. Despite the fact that it’s official language is French, most locals are bilingual and able to communicate fluently in both languages. That means visitors from other countries should encounter no problem getting around and communicating with people in the city.
However, t’s still good to pick up a few words of French for politeness’ sake! These aren’t necessary for day-to-day survival, but it doesn’t hurt to know a few local phrases such as “bonjour” (hello!) or “merci beaucoup” (thank you). It will show local people that you care enough to learn their native language.
How Expensive Is Quebec City?
Quebec City, as with any destination, can be more or less expensive depending on your travel style and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of some average costs to help you plan your visit:
- Accommodation: Prices can range from around CAD 30 per night for a budget hostel to CAD 150-250 or more for a mid-range hotel. Luxury hotels can go upwards of CAD 300 per night.
- Food: You can expect to spend around CAD 10-15 for a meal at a casual restaurant, while a more upscale dining experience may cost CAD 40-60 per person or more. Budget travelers can save by eating at food courts, fast food chains, or cooking their own meals.
- Transportation: Public transport in Quebec City is relatively affordable, with a single fare costing around CAD 3.50. Taxis and rideshares can be more expensive, depending on the distance. If you’re planning to explore the surrounding region, consider renting a car, which can range from CAD 40-80 per day.
- Attractions: Entrance fees for museums, historic sites, and other attractions can vary in Quebec City. Many sites charge between CAD 10-25 per adult, while others offer free admission.
- Miscellaneous expenses: Don’t forget to budget for souvenirs, snacks, and tips.
Book Your Stay In Quebec City
Are you looking for the perfect place to stay during your vacation to Quebec City? The Best Western PLUS is the ideal hideaway in the heart of the city center. With its fantastic location, luxurious amenities and convenient services, our hotel has everything you need for a comfortable and unforgettable stay. You can enjoy spacious rooms with modern decor, an indoor pool to relax after a day of exploring. We also have a gym, a restaurant and a mixology bar on site. Not to mention that our hotel is pet-friendly and has EV charging stations.
