15 Best Things to do in Quebec City, Quebec

Planning a trip to Quebec City? Well, you’ve come to the right place.

Quebec City is a charming blend of old-world European vibes and vibrant Canadian culture. And since I’m Canadian, we’ve had the chance to visit a few times to explore its cobblestone streets and savor the local cuisine. So now, we’ve compiled our list of top experiences that you don’t want to miss. 

From seeing Montmorency Falls to whale watching and hiking among goats in the Quebec Forest, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to make your trip unforgettable. Let’s dive in!

Quebec City At A Glance

Before you take off on your French-Canadian adventure, here are a few helpful tips to make your travel days easier.

Try to speak some French: French is the official language of Quebec, but most people are bilingual, so getting around as an English speaker is easy. However, starting out with “bonjour” will go a long way with locals!

Getting around the city: Walking will be your best bet, especially in Old Quebec. Wear good shoes because there are a lot of cobblestones and stairs! For further distances, the RTC Public Buses are an excellent option, or you can use Uber or Lyft.

Check the weather before you go: Depending on the time of year you visit, you’ll experience either very cold or very warm temperatures. Bring layers and be prepared for changing weather throughout the day.

How I Would Spend Three Days in Quebec City

🚶‍♀️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.

Things to do in Quebec City, Quebec

1. Learn Old Quebec City’s history and ride the funicular

With so much to see in Quebec, where do you start? Well, with this Old City walking tour, that’s where!

Our guide, Lynn, made the entire tour a memorable experience. She was not only incredibly knowledgeable about Quebec’s rich history but also friendly and approachable, which made the tour a lot of fun.

We began in the heart of Old Quebec, meeting at the office on Rue Saint-Paul, where Lynn gave us a brief overview of what we would be seeing. From there, we explored the Lower Town, where we were captivated by the charming cobblestone streets of the Quartier Petit Champlain and its “Umbrella Alley”, and the stunning murals and historic buildings in Place Royale.

For me, the highlight of this section was learning about the city’s fortifications. Did you know that Quebec City is the only North American city still surrounded by them?

After that, we made our way up to Upper Town on the funicular, which was a real treat. The views were just breathtaking! This is actually one of the few walking tours that includes the funicular, which was much better than climbing up the Breakneck Steps.

Then, once we reached the top, we marveled at the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Terrasse Dufferin, and the beautiful Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral. 

The whole tour lasted around 2 hours, and we’re so impressed with how much we got to see in that short timeframe. It was the perfect introduction to Quebec City. Be sure to book this tour for your first day here!

2. Taste your way around Old Quebec

This food tour of Old Quebec is probably the best thing we’ve ever done here! Quebec is famous for its unique cuisine, and on this tour we got to try so much of it that we didn’t need to eat dinner that night. 

The experience began with a delicious three-course tasting menu at a rustic, old-timey restaurant. We got to try Québécois pea soup, pâté chinois, and a sweet maple taffy dessert. This is definitely not the kind of stuff we would usually order, so this tour really encouraged us to step outside of our comfort zones and try something new.

We also loved that every stop brought something unique to the table—literally! We got to try a delicious, hearty brisket at an upscale restaurant, duck carpaccio at a local “buvette”, and some creamy poutine at a cool gastropub. It wouldn’t be a Quebec food tour without some poutine!

We also enjoyed different drink pairings at a few stops, and we finished with a sweet treat at a local fudge shop. The food was absolutely fantastic, and our guide, Maude, made the experience even better by sharing so many interesting tidbits about Quebec’s culinary traditions. Meanwhile, the walking route we followed really showed us the best of the old city. 

We loved this food tour, and with thousands of glowing reviews, we’re clearly not the only ones! Just don’t wait too long to book, because it’s very popular!

3. Go shopping in Quartier Petit-Champlain

Ready to see one of the most charming neighborhoods in all of Quebec (maybe all of North America)? Head to Lower Town and find Quartier Petit Champlain, which feels almost like stepping back in time.

Rue du Petit-Champlain is the main pedestrian 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 Boutique for some free fudge and chocolate samples! There are tons of cafes and restaurants here too, we loved sitting on the patio with an espresso and taking it all in.

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.

4. Visit Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré on an easy half-day tour

The countryside around Quebec City is undeniably beautiful, but it’s also very vast, so trying to navigate it by yourself can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to fit in all the must-see sights into just a few hours. So that’s where this half-day tour to Montmorency Falls and the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica comes in! 

It’s the perfect solution for anyone who wants to explore the stunning landscapes and attractions just outside Quebec City without the stress of planning every stop or figuring out transportation. We hopped on a comfortable coach in Old Quebec and rode out to the breathtaking Montmorency Falls, which is actually taller than Niagara Falls. How cool is that?

We had plenty of time to take in the views, snap photos, and explore the park. Then, we visited the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, where we learned about its religious significance and the many miracles said to have occurred there. It’s one of the most stunning churches we’ve ever seen, both inside and out!

Along the way, we made a few extra stops, including a quick visit to the Chocolaterie de l’Île d’Orléans, where we picked up some sweet treats, and the Albert Gilles Copper Art & Museum, where we got a taste of Quebec’s rich craftsmanship.

This tour is a must for anyone who’s short on time in Quebec City but still wants to get out and explore the surrounding region! After all, it would be such a shame to miss these breathtaking sights while you’re here. 

5. Explore Château Frontenac and stroll around Terrasse Dufferin

Old Town is split into the Upper and Lower Town, so exploring both must be done strategically! With some intense stairs separating the two, we started in the Upper Town and made our way to the Lower Town.

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 charming on 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.

6. Cruise down the St. Lawrence River

This guided sightseeing cruise is one of the best ways to take in all of Quebec City’s beauty! Floating along the St. Lawrence River and seeing the Château Frontenac and the city’s skyline from the water is next-level pretty, but that’s not all this cruise is about!

The cruise runs aboard the Louis Jolliet, named after the French-Canadian explorer, and gives you a chance to kick back, enjoy a drink, and take in the views. 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, an onboard guide dressed as Louis Jolliet narrates the history of the river 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 planning on walking, public transport is the better bet.

7. Stroll along Rue Saint-Jean

Rue Saint-Jean is one of the most vibrant and historic streets in Old Quebec, and the perfect way to dive into Old Quebec’s culture. 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! This is a great time to wander without a plan and soak up the city’s energy at your own pace.

8. Go whale watching

Quebec’s maritime regions are home to some of the best whale watching spots in the world, so you can’t pass up the chance to enjoy this whale watching tour while you’re here! You can’t do much whale watching in Quebec itself, but this full-day cruise whisked us out to Baie-Sainte-Catherine for an epic whale watching cruise. 

We could choose between a smaller Zodiac cruise and a three-deck big-boat cruise. We chose the Zodiac option because it was smaller, faster, and let us get much closer to the whales!

As we zipped through the water, we were lucky enough to see minke, humpback, and beluga whales, as well as some dolphins and a handful of playful seals. 

Being so close to all of that marine life was just amazing. We even saw a minke whale leaping right out of the water, just meters away from our boat!

Our naturalist guide was exceptional and shared so many interesting facts and stories about the marine life we saw. Meanwhile, the views of the Saguenay River and the surrounding landscapes were breathtaking!

If you’re looking for a day of wildlife, beautiful scenery, and a little thrill on the water, this whale-watching tour is an absolute must! We can’t wait to do it again.

9. Learn about the city’s dark history on a crime tour

Cap off your day with something a little different—this ghostly guided tour through the hidden, haunted corners of Old Quebec.

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 that 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!

10. Enjoy a drink in a cozy bar

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 right in the old city.

If you want to keep things easy, Bar Artefact has a central location. 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 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.

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 for a night. Santé!

11. Explore the Island of Orleans on a food tour 

Exploring the Island of Orleans is a must while you’re in Quebec, and what better way to get to know this beautiful and historic area than through its food? We had no idea where to start, so we booked this food tour, and it turned out to be a fantastic experience! 

We were picked up from a central location in Quebec City and made our way to the island, which took about 35 minutes. The Island of Orleans was one of the first places where French immigrants settled in Quebec, and it’s still a real microcosm of Quebec’s rich cultural heritage. 

Our first stop was a gorgeous vineyard where we tasted some of the island’s finest, which was a treat in itself, but the stunning views of the Beaupré coast made the experience even more special. Next, we headed to an apple farm to try the Île d’Orléans’ famous ice cider! It’s super sweet and refreshing. 

From there, we visited a chocolaterie where we indulged in rich, handmade chocolates while enjoying an incredible view of Quebec City from the terrace. It was heaven for someone with a sweet tooth like me! We also visited a nougat shop to sample nougat, caramel, and lots of other tasty treats.

Between the flavorful stops and the stunning scenery, it’s no wonder this tour always sells out! We loved everything about it, so don’t hesitate to book. 

12. Try the best poutine at Le Chic Shack

Poutine is a classic Canadian dish, and Le Chic Shack does it well! Quebec is actually the birthplace of poutine, so I can’t think of any place better to try it than here. For those of you who don’t know, poutine is French fries topped with gravy and cheese curds – and it is fantastic.

Le Chic Shack is well known for all of its food. 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.

13. Go hiking in the Quebec Forest with goats

This hiking with goats adventure in the Quebec forest might just be the most unexpectedly delightful thing we’ve ever done! We had so much fun hiking alongside our guide, François, who’s an absolute gem of a human with a clear love for nature.

We mainly booked this tour because we wanted to go hiking in the Quebec forest, and we worried about getting lost or navigating transportation. But what we got was so much more than just a guided hike. Our four-legged companions completely stole the show!

Yes, we’re talking about goats. Our hiking companions, Theo, Monsieur, and Sven, were sweet and hilarious. They trotted along beside us and delighted us with their curious and cuddly personalities. 

Meanwhile, Luna, the shepherd dog, bounded around us with her endless energy but always kept an eye on her herd—aka, us! As the trail led us deep into the gorgeous and peaceful Quebec forest, we marveled at a massive beaver dam and learned how to recognize different animal tracks and spot signs of wildlife.

We wrapped up the tour with an awesome picnic lunch in the woods—think cured meats, local cheeses, crusty baguettes, and super fresh fruits and veggies. It felt rustic and gourmet at once, and we washed it all down with a cold drink. Perfection!

This tour was such a heartwarming experience. We can’t say enough good things about it, so if you’re looking for a unique adventure in Quebec, be sure to book this fantastic guided hike with goats!

14. Go to a show!

We were surprised to learn that Quebec City has a thriving theater scene. Many of the venues are historic and stunning, which simply adds to the charm. Even if you don’t speak French, you can follow the story and enjoy the performance! Here are two of Quebec City’s top theaters to check out.

Le Capitole de Québec

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.

15. Ride an e-bike around Montmorency Falls

For lovers of the great outdoors, this Montmorency Falls e-bike tour is the BEST way to explore the Quebec countryside. We loved every moment of this tour, and I must say, the use of an e-bike definitely made the 16-mile (25-kilometer) ride a lot easier.

The tour begins in Old Quebec’s Lower Town, where you will meet your guide and group at a local bike shop. After getting fitted with e-bikes, you’re off on a relaxed and mostly flat ride, so there’s really no need to have a lot of cycling experience! 

The route goes through the Saint-Charles River, where you can enjoy beautiful views before stopping at Domaine de Maizerets, a historic park with gardens and walking trails. 

Next, bike along the Saint Lawrence River and see windsurfers and bird-watchers in action at Beauport Bay. Once you make it to Montmorency Falls, park your bikes and take the cable car up to the top for an incredible view. I loved taking in the sights on the way up, and they were even better when we got to the top!

Next, you’ll walk on the boardwalk and across the suspended bridge for even more stunning perspectives. Then, finish the tour with a peaceful ride back to Old Quebec. This is such a fun and wholesome way to explore—no wonder it has hundreds of rave reviews.

Related Read: Need help organizing your trip? See our 3-day Quebec itinerary for many of these top activities and more personal recommendations, all planned out for you!

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!

Thanks for reading!

We hope this list gave you tons of ideas for your trip to Quebec City! These were some of our favorite ways to dive into local history, explore the great outdoors, and eat our way around town. Whether you’re here for a weekend or longer, adding even a few of these activities will make your visit extra special.

Planning more Canadian adventures? Check out all our Canada blogs here. Or, scroll down for a few handpicked experiences nearby that are perfect to pair with your time in Quebec City!

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