Wondering how to spend the perfect three days in Quebec City? We’ve got you covered!
Quebec City is one of the most charming destinations in North America, with cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, French-Canadian cuisine, and a strong dose of history and culture at every turn. But with so much to see, eat, and experience, planning the perfect three-day itinerary can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in!
After spending time exploring both the iconic landmarks and local favorites, we’ve crafted a day-by-day itinerary to help you see the best of Quebec City without feeling rushed. From historic tours to maple-laced bites and cozy drink spots, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this magical city.
Don’t miss out!
Our Top Choice
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this walking tour of Old Quebec! Not only is this a great way to know the city and its history, but it also includes riding the funicular, which most walking tours skip!
Overview of the Best Quebec City Itinerary
🏰 Day 1: Old Quebec Walking Tour & Château Frontenac
Explore Old Quebec on a guided walking tour, take in the sights on a river cruise, then spend the evening wandering Quartier Petit Champlain and enjoying dinner in the heart of the city.
👻 Day 2: Montmorency Falls Tour & Ghost Tour
Take a half-day tour to Montmorency Falls, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, and Île d’Orléans, then end the night uncovering Quebec City’s dark history on a spooky ghost and crime tour.
🥐 Day 3: Old Quebec Food Tour & Rue Saint-Jean
Taste local favorites on a guided Old Quebec food tour, stroll along lively Rue Saint-Jean, and finish your trip with dinner and a live show in the city center.
*This itinerary was crafted around staying in Old Quebec City
Quebec City is a large city, and getting around can be time-consuming, so choosing a centrally located hotel is essential. We’ve created this itinerary based on staying in Old Quebec. Auberge Saint-Pierre is our favorite hotel in the area because it offers luxury without breaking the bank. Read our blog about Where to Stay in Quebec City for more detailed info about hotels and areas.
Day 1
Breakfast – L’Antiquaire Buffet
L’Antiquaire Buffet feels like a step back in time in the best way possible—vinyl booths, checkered floors, and a menu full of hearty, no-fuss breakfast classics. This retro gem is a local favorite for a reason. The plates are huge (seriously, don’t underestimate the size of the “petit déjeuner”), and the coffee just keeps coming.
It opens bright and early at 6 am, which gives us plenty of time to fuel up before our morning tour. And with the tour starting just a couple of minutes away, it’s super convenient. We made the most of a slow breakfast without stressing about the time, though if you’re anything like me and prone to lingering over second helpings of maple-drenched French toast, definitely set a reminder so you don’t miss that 9:30 am tour.
Morning – Explore Old Quebec City
There’s no better way to get your bearings in Quebec City than by joining this guided walking tour through its most iconic neighborhoods. We recommend booking the 9:30 am option, because it gives you plenty of time to enjoy a relaxed breakfast and still be ready to explore for the next two hours.
Our guide, Lynn, was equal parts historian and storyteller. She met us near Rue Saint-Paul, just a short walk from L’Antiquaire Buffet, and kicked things off with a quick intro to the city’s past before leading us through the winding streets of the Lower Town.
Wandering through Quartier Petit Champlain felt like being in a snow globe version of Europe, with cobblestones, colorful shops, and the famous Umbrella Alley that you’ve probably seen on Instagram.
One of the coolest stops was Place Royale, home to stunning murals and centuries-old buildings that somehow still feel alive with history. But my personal favorite was learning that Quebec City is the only place in North America still protected by its original city walls. So cool!
We capped it off with a ride up the funicular to Upper Town (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds), where we took in sweeping views from Terrasse Dufferin and stood in awe in front of Château Frontenac. This is great because most walking tours don’t include the funicular, and the alternative is a lot of stairs to the top! You’ll also pass by the gorgeous Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral—don’t forget to peek inside.
This tour is the perfect intro to Quebec City, especially if it’s your first time here. Definitely make it a priority!
Lunch – Le Chic Shack
After soaking up all that history, we were more than ready for something satisfying and quick, and Le Chic Shack hit the spot perfectly. Just a 5-minute walk from where the walking tour wraps up, this cozy lunch stop is all about comfort food done right.
Think gourmet burgers, next-level poutines, thick milkshakes, and tart homemade lemonade. I had the maple bacon poutine, and it was incredible – I’m talking melt-in-your-mouth good! One great thing about this place is that they offer small and large sizes. The small was definitely enough for lunch, especially since poutine is so filling.
Early Afternoon – Check out Terrasse Dufferin
You’ll have a little bit of time to wander after lunch (and walk off all that poutine!). Since Old Town is split into the Upper and Lower Town, and with some intense stairs separating the two, we will start in the Upper Town and make our way to the Lower Town. Luckily, the lunch spot sits right across from Château Frontenac, so it’s the perfect place to start exploring.
First things first, check out the Château Frontenac! This stunning Fairmont property opened in 1893 and sits perched on a hill, overlooking the St. Lawrence River. It was the first Fairmont Château built by the Canadian Railway, so luxury travelers had somewhere to stay as they started their journey. You can wander through even if you aren’t staying there, and it’s absolutely worth a look!
Located right at the foot of the Château Frontenac, Terrasse Dufferin is a long, open boardwalk perched right on the edge of the cliffs above the St. Lawrence River, and it’s a vibe all its own. We loved simply wandering around the area, watching the boats drift by, and enjoying some people-watching. You’ll often spot musicians, artists, and street performers here, adding to the relaxed, festive energy.
It’s also where you’ll find several historic cannons lining the edge of the boardwalk—prime photo ops with both history and scenery in the background. Spend about an hour in this area, or however long you like, and then make your way towards the docks!
Mid-afternoon – Cruise down the St. Lawrence River
After lunch, this guided sightseeing cruise will take you out onto the St. Lawrence River for a whole new view of the city! It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Terrasse Dufferin down to the dock at 10 Rue Dalhousie. The cruise departs at 2 pm, but plan on arriving at 1:30 pm.
The cruise runs aboard the Louis Jolliet, named after the French-Canadian explorer, and gives you a proper look at the Château Frontenac and the Quebec City skyline from the water, something most visitors never get to see. From there, it continues out toward Montmorency Falls, which is even taller than Niagara, and past the countryside of Île d’Orléans before heading back to the Old Port.
We loved taking in the sights from the water! It was such a relaxing and unique way to see Old Quebec, plus the full bar and snacks available were a great bonus (just know that it’s card only – no cash accepted!). For a little entertainment and context, there’s an onboard guide who narrates the river’s history and the landmarks along the way.
One thing worth knowing ahead of time: you’ll want to show up at the ticket office on the dock a full 30 minutes before departure to grab your physical ticket, since it’s required to board. Parking near the dock is also notoriously tight, so if you’re not walking over from lunch, public transport is the better bet.
The whole cruise runs about 1.5 hours, so you’ll be back on dry land by mid-afternoon with plenty of day left.
Late afternoon – Go shopping on Rue du Petit Champlain
Once you’ve had your fill of fresh air and views, just take a short 5-minute walk from where the cruise docks to Rue du Petit Champlain, one of the most charming streets in all of North America.
Rue du Petit-Champlain is a pedestrian-only street, and it’s lined with art galleries, boutiques, and little shops that are so fun to browse. If you need a little pick-me-up, I highly recommend stopping by La Fugerie for some free fudge and chocolate samples!
There’s no rush here, just take your time popping in and out, soaking up the fairy-tale atmosphere. It’s especially lovely in the late afternoon light, when the cobblestones glow, and the storefronts seem to come alive.
This is one of the best places for souvenir shopping in the city. You can find all sorts of maple-flavored treats, clothing, and other knick-knacks you might want to remember your trip by.
Dinner – Savini Petit Champlain
After a jam-packed day of exploring the Upper and Lower towns, we were certainly ready for a relaxing dinner. Savini Petit Champlain was the perfect spot for that, with Château views and a large outdoor patio. The overall vibe was elegant and polished, but not so much that we felt out of place in the clothes we’d had on all day!
The menu is mostly Italian, but with a French twist – so you know everything will be good. We wished we could have tried every dish, but decided on the croccantini al Parmigiano as a starter, followed by fresh salmon tartare and a delicious burrata pizza. And yes, it was as good as it sounds!
Evening – Enjoy a nightcap
There’s nothing better than winding down with a drink in one of Old Quebec’s coziest bars, and you’ve got a few excellent options just steps from dinner.
If you want to keep things easy, Bar Artefact is located just a 4-minute walk from Savini Petit Champlain. It’s a sleek, dimly lit lounge with curated cocktails and a great wine list, perfect for unwinding without going far. Plus, the historic artifacts embedded in the walls make for some fun conversation starters.
Prefer something a little more casual and atmospheric? Pub L’Oncle Antoine is right at the end of the street and serves up beers and whiskey flights inside a vaulted 18th-century stone cellar. It’s got that low-ceilinged, candle-lit charm that feels straight out of another century—ideal for a relaxed, cozy end to the night.
Or, if you’re up for a 10-minute post-dinner stroll, Maison Livernois is a beautifully designed distillery bar with house-made spirits and some of the best craft cocktails in the city. It’s a great choice if you’re into gin, bitters, and creative flavor combos.
No matter where you land, it’s the perfect final stop to toast to your first day in Quebec City. Santé!
Day 2
Breakfast – La Buchette
Day two kicks off with a cozy, no-frills breakfast at La Bûchette, a spot that blends rustic charm with hearty, traditional Québécois fare. It opens at 8 am, and we recommend getting there early so you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy a hearty meal without feeling rushed before the first tour.
The menu leans into local flavors, with everything from savory breakfast crepes to tourtière-inspired breakfast plates. The woodsy interior, complete with plaid tablecloths and old-timey decor, gives the whole place a cabin-in-the-city kind of feel. It’s warm, welcoming, and the portions are generous—just what you want before a morning of walking and exploring.
Best of all, it’s only a 2-minute walk to your 10:30 am tour meeting point, so you can finish that last bite of sugar pie (yes, they serve it for breakfast) and stroll over without checking your watch.
Morning/Afternoon – Visit Montmorency Falls & Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré
Quebec City is gorgeous, but trust us—the countryside just outside it is well worth carving out time to explore. The best way to do that? This half-day coach tour, which visits Montmorency Falls, the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica, and a few charming local stops along the way.
We recommend booking the 10:30 am departure, which gives you a relaxed morning and still wraps up by mid-afternoon. The whole thing lasts about 4.5 hours, and it’s a smooth, stress-free way to see more without renting a car or planning a route.
The tour starts with a scenic drive to Montmorency Falls, which is actually taller than Niagara Falls. Pretty wild, right?
You’ll have time to walk around, take photos, and soak up the views from different angles. From there, it’s on to Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, a peaceful and absolutely stunning basilica that’s been a pilgrimage site for centuries.
The intricate mosaics and stained glass alone are worth the visit. Along the way, you’ll also stop at a local chocolaterie on Île d’Orléans (yes, you can sample!) and the Albert Gilles Copper Art & Museum, where you’ll get a glimpse into traditional metalworking and local artistry.
If you’re short on time but want to see more of the region’s natural beauty and cultural highlights, this tour is the perfect solution. It’s a laid-back, scenic way to experience what lies beyond the city walls!
Late Afternoon – Free time!
After returning from the countryside tour around 3 pm, you’ll have a couple of hours before dinner, and how you spend them is completely up to you.
If you’re ready to take it slow, this is the perfect opportunity to head back to your hotel for a bit of downtime. Freshen up, put your feet up, and reset before the evening. But if you’re still in the mood to explore, there are a few great options within walking distance of the tour’s drop-off point.
You could pop into a café for a quick bite—Bistro L’Orygine is nearby and has a great selection of light snacks and fresh juices, or grab a pastry and espresso from La Maison Smith, which is just around the corner.
If you’re looking for something more cultural, the Museum of Civilization is only an 8-minute walk away and stays open until 5 pm. It’s a thoughtfully curated space with exhibits on Quebec’s cultural roots, Indigenous histories, and rotating special installations that are always worth checking out.
Or, circle back to spots from Day 1 you didn’t get enough time in—Rue du Petit-Champlain is especially lovely in the later afternoon light, or you can enjoy a slower stroll along Terrasse Dufferin and catch any performers you may have missed.
This is your window to recharge or squeeze in just a little more Quebec magic!
Dinner – Restaurant La Buche
For your second night in Quebec City, treat yourself to a relaxed and flavorful dinner at Restaurant La Buche. This place came highly recommended by our guide, and boy, were they right!
It’s an eclectic yet lively atmosphere here, leaning into a sugar shack theme. For those non-Canadians, a sugar shack is a cabin where you make maple syrup! It’s not all about kitchy decor, though; the food was really impressive. I personally loved the tourtier meat pie, but everything looked good.
It’s just a five-minute walk from here to tonight’s evening tour, so try to get here around 6:30 pm to give yourself enough time.
Evening – Learn about the city’s dark history on a crime tour
Cap off your second day with something a little different—this ghostly guided tour through the hidden, haunted corners of Old Quebec. The meeting point is just a 5-minute walk from dinner, so you’ll have time to finish dinner and stroll over without a rush.
This 90-minute night tour blends local history with theatrical storytelling, led by two character guides: Jean Rattier, the executioner, and his wife Marie Rivière. Dressed in full period costume, they bring to life the eerie tales of crimes, arrests, and executions that shaped the city’s darker past. It’s creepy, funny, and oddly educational all at once.
You’ll pass by former prisons like the Morrin Centre, once the common jail of Quebec, and places like Place Royale, where public punishments played out centuries ago. Your guides weave grim tales into the surroundings so naturally, it starts to feel like the stones themselves are keeping secrets.
The streets feel completely different after dark—quiet except for the occasional echo of footsteps, dimly lit by gas-style lamps that cast flickering shadows across the centuries-old stone walls. You’ll wind through narrow alleys and tucked-away courtyards, the kind you’d never walk down alone at night, unless you were following an executioner.
Even if you’re not a ghost tour person, this one’s worth doing. It’s quirky, theatrical, and offers a totally unique look at the city’s past. Just bring a jacket and maybe hold someone’s hand if you spook easily!
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Day 3
Morning – Taste your way around Old Quebec on a food tour
You’ve explored the sights, and now it’s time to dive into the flavors. This 3-hour Old Quebec food tour is hands-down one of the best ways to experience the city’s unique culinary scene. We recommend booking the 11:00 am, 11:30 am, or 12:00 pm time slot. I recommend sticking to coffee for breakfast because you’ll definitely be full by the end!
If you have a bit of time before your tour begins, we suggest a quick stroll through Parc du Bastion-de-la-Reine for some postcard-worthy city views, or a peaceful walk through Esplanade Park, a leafy green space with a fascinating military past. Both are just 10 minutes from the meeting point.
The tour kicks off with a cozy three-course tasting—pea soup, pâté chinois, and maple taffy—before moving on to a handful of local favorites. You’ll sample everything from brisket and duck carpaccio to a gourmet spin on poutine, with a few drink pairings and a sweet stop at a fudge shop to wrap things up.
Your guide keeps things lively with fun stories and local insight, all while leading you through some of Old Quebec’s most charming backstreets and hidden gems.
This tour fills up fast for a reason, so be sure to book ahead. It’s the tastiest history lesson you’ll ever take! But you don’t have to take our word for it—check out hundreds of five-star reviews here to see why this is a top-rated tour!
Afternoon – Stroll Rue Saint-Jean
After wrapping up your food tour, take advantage of your location. Rue Saint-Jean is one of the most vibrant and historic streets in Old Quebec, and the perfect place to walk off your culinary adventure.
From the tour’s endpoint, head west along the street to explore even more of what it has to offer. You’ll find everything from quirky local boutiques to bookstores, cafés, and souvenir shops, all nestled among beautiful old architecture.
Be sure to check out the St. Jean Gate, one of the original stone entrances to the fortified city, and the Place D’Youville, a lovely historic square that often hosts public events and performers.
If you’re up for venturing just off the main stretch, the stately Parliament Building is nearby and worth a look. Or, for a different perspective on the city, pop into the Observatoire de la Capitale, where you can get panoramic views of Quebec City from above—an ideal way to take it all in as your trip starts winding down. This is a great time to wander without a plan and soak up the city’s energy at your own pace.
Dinner – Le Hobbit
For your final dinner in Quebec City, head to Le Hobbit, a cozy, rustic bistro just a 6-minute walk from central Rue Saint-Jean. Tucked away, it offers a relaxed, unfussy atmosphere with warm lighting, exposed stone walls, and a menu that puts a local twist on classic French cuisine.
The dishes here are thoughtful and seasonal. Expect things like duck breast with berry glaze, creamy mushroom risotto, or seared fish with fresh vegetables. Vegetarian-friendly options are available too, which can be surprisingly hard to come by in more traditional French spots.
Whether you’re pairing your meal with a glass of Quebec wine or one of their house cocktails, everything feels curated but not overcomplicated. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger just a little longer. Just be sure to make a reservation if you’re dining on a weekend.
Evening – See a show
End your last night in Quebec City with a bit of live entertainment. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or more avant-garde, Rue Saint-Jean puts you right near two of the city’s best venues, each offering a totally different kind of night out. Both theaters are just steps from where you’ve been exploring and dining, making it easy to slide right from dinner to curtain call.
Le Capitole de Québec
Just a stone’s throw from central Rue Saint-Jean, Le Capitole de Québec delivers that old-world theater charm with a wide variety of performances. You’ll find everything from French-language musicals and comedy shows to burlesque-style revues and concerts, all in a beautifully restored venue that dates back to the early 1900s.
It’s more than just a theater, too—an on-site restaurant and rooftop bar make it an all-in-one destination if you want to grab a drink or dessert post-show. The ambiance is elegant without being stuffy, and it’s a great way to wrap up your trip on a fun, cultural note.
La Diamant
If you’re looking for something a little more modern and boundary-pushing, check out Le Diamant, just down the street from Le Capitole. Architecturally striking with its glass-and-stone design, this venue specializes in contemporary performances—think modern circus acts, experimental theatre, dance, and multimedia shows that push creative limits.
It’s an intimate, cutting-edge space where you’re just as likely to be amazed by the lighting and set design as the performance itself. Even if the show is a little outside your usual comfort zone, that’s kind of the point; it’s a memorable way to end your Quebec City adventure with something unexpected.
Related Read: Have extra time? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Quebec City!
Where to Stay in Quebec City
Quebec City is full of charming neighborhoods, but if you want to be in the heart of it all, Old Quebec is hands-down the best place to stay. This historic district puts you within walking distance of top sights, cozy cafés, and stunning architecture. If these hotels still have availability for your dates, they are my top recommendations:
Luxury – $$$
Auberge Saint-Antoine is hands down one of the most charming and luxurious hotels in Québec City! With its goose down duvets and heated bathroom floors, you’ll always wake up feeling cozy and well-rested here. There’s a luxury fitness center and spa on site, but if you can drag yourself away from those facilities, then you’re just steps from the boutiques of Petit Champlain and the Old Port waterfront. Plus, many top tours depart right nearby, making it the perfect base for exploring the city.
Rooms at Auberge Saint-Antoine cost between $350 and $1,200 CAD per night. Check prices and availability over at Booking.com!
Mid-range – $$
Auberge Saint-Pierre is a cozy, boutique hotel tucked into a beautifully restored 19th-century building in Québec City’s historic Old Port. You might expect that a property like this would break the bank, but in fact, it offers a lot of bang for your buck. The rooms are warm and inviting, and the waterfront is right on your doorstep
Depending on the season, rooms start from just $250 CAD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!
Budget – $
If you want to stay in the heart of Quebec’s Old City but don’t want to splurge on a hotel, then Auberge Internationale de Quebec is the answer to your prayers! With both private rooms and dorms, it’s a great option for solo travelers, couples, or groups looking to explore the city without breaking the bank. You’ll be within walking distance of iconic spots like the Citadelle and Battlefields Park, and you can meet fellow travelers in the cozy common areas or at the on-site café bistro.
Dorm beds at Auberge Internationale de Quebec start at around $100 CAD per night. Discover all prices and availability at Booking.com!
Looking for more choices? Check out the full list of hotels in Quebec City here!
Related Read: For a full breakdown of the best areas and hotels in Quebec City, have a look at our detailed Where to Stay guide!
Book your Airport Taxi in advance
Start your trip stress-free by booking your airport taxi before you arrive. You’ll skip the long lines, avoid overpriced fares and scams, and won’t have to worry about explaining your hotel address to a driver. Simply prebook your airport pickup online here, and your driver will be ready to take you directly to your hotel!
Renting a Car or Camper in Canada
One of the best ways to experience Canada is by hitting the road. Some of the best things to do and attractions are located in remote areas between destinations. For that reason, we highly recommend getting your own wheels!
- Rent a car – To simply rent a vehicle, search on Discover Cars where they compare tons of different rental companies near you. This way you can easily compare prices, features, policies, and more!
- Rent a campervan or motorhome – Motorhome Republic is great for finding a motorhome or campervan to rent in Canada. With your own home on wheels, you can camp in beautiful places and save money on accommodation!
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Thanks for reading!
While Quebec City is a place we find ourselves coming back to time and time again, we think three days is the perfect introduction to the city. There are so many hidden gems, historic sights, and simply charming buildings to see – oh, and all the amazing restaurants! If you follow this itinerary, you’ll see the best of the best.
Let us help you plan the rest of your travels and check out our other Canada blogs! As a Canadian myself, I’ve traveled all over the country and have hand-picked the best places to visit and things to do. Here are a few more blogs to get you started:
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Montreal – Best 3-Day Itinerary
How to Spend 4 Days in Toronto (For First-Time Visitors!)
How to Spend THREE days in Montreal in Winter: The Best 3-Day Itinerary
The Services We Recommend
From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore with confidence.
