quebec city tourist attractions winter

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15 Incredible Things to Do in Quebec City in Winter

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Quebec City has quite the backdrop during the winter months. A gorgeous snowcapped castle overlooking the icy Saint Lawrence River and snow-dusted cobblestone streets make this charming French Canadian city look like something out of a fairy tale. But it isn’t just about appearance; Quebec City has some of the yummiest food and most fun shopping in all of Canada. Plus, there are dozens of things to see and do.

If you enjoy wintery weather, Quebec is the perfect place to visit. If you’re not a cold-weather fan, you will still love it. Winters in Quebec City are cold, but you will be so enchanted that you won’t even notice the cold weather as long as you dress appropriately.

Here are our top suggestions for the mature traveler visiting Quebec City during the winter.

15 Incredible Things To Do In Quebec City In The Winter

1. explore old quebec city.

Old Quebec City is one of the most picturesque locations in all of North America. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , it looks more like a city you might find in Europe than in North America . The streets are well-lit, and if you are there during the holidays or carnival when extra decorations are everywhere, you will be spellbound by this charming city.

The best way to explore is on foot, so you can hop in and out of the local stores. You might also consider a horse-drawn carriage to explore the town or a hop-on, hop-off bus tour with stops at all the important sites for maximum Quebec City winter fun.

2. Take A Walking Tour

The best way to explore the heart of Quebec is on foot. Consider taking a walking tour. Sign up for a tour of the city with a guide or do a self-guided walking route. I’ve done both and enjoyed the self-guided one the most because I wanted to stop, peruse things, and take pictures because this Quebeck town makes you feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie .

Be sure to spend some time in what is considered the oldest commercial street in North America. Petit-Champlain is picturesque with its narrow, winding cobblestone streets. This is where you will find local shops, restaurants, and cafes. Located on the lower level of the town, if you don’t want to walk the icy or snowy streets to the other areas, you can always take the funicular to the top. It is a quick ride.

You will also want to visit Place Royale , where historic buildings such as the towering Notre Dame Des Victories cathedral frame this gorgeous little plaza.

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

3. Ride The Funiculaire

The Funiculaire transports you from the picturesque Lower Town up to the steep terrace upon which Chateau Frontenac perches overlooking the entire city. It is a quick 3-minute ride and provides a great view.

The funicular was put into service in 1879 and still continues to transport visitors up and down the terrace.

Fascinated by funiculars? See our picks for the 11 best funiculars in the world .

Albert Pego / Shutterstock

4. Walk The Dufferin Terrace

Stroll along Dufferin Terrace for a spectacular view of the Saint Lawrence charming river and Chateau Frontenac, as well as a toboggan run in the winter. The terrace is like a very wide boardwalk at the beach. I highly recommend taking the time to visit the remains of the Saint-Louis Forts and Chateaux , which lie beneath this iconic promenade. Note that there are steps down, and the pathway beneath the terrace is not always flat.

Quebec City Tourism

5. Take In The View

Historic buildings surrounding the towering Chateau Frontenac give Quebec City winter skyline a stunning look. Along with its charming European vibe, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Quebec City, the Saint Lawrence River with floating ice, and more from the terrace behind the Chateau Frontenac and the Governor’s Promenade during the winter .

6. Visit The Le Chateau Frontenac

Perched high on a hill overlooking the Saint Lawrence River is a giant Fairmont hotel, The Chateau Frontenac . It is the most iconic building in the city and is considered the most photographed hotel in the world.

When I first visited, I viewed it from the outside and promised myself I would stay there in the future. My promise came to fruition the following year, and I can attest it felt like being in an actual castle!

I highly recommend touring the hotel even if you can’t stay there. During the Quebec City winter holiday season, Chateau Frontenac is decorated beautifully.

7. Enjoy Some Outdoor Fun

If you are into outdoor sports, Quebec City is the place to be. Be aware all these activities require you to be in good physical shape, and there is a danger of falling on the ice.

One of the unique and exhilarating attractions right outside the Chateau Frontenac is the toboggan slide, Glissade de la Terrasse .

One of the oldest attractions in the city, this one-of-a-kind slide has been located on Dufferin Terrace since 1884.

You are provided with an old wooden sled to tug up the ramp, and then groups of up to four can pile on the toboggan. When the operator releases the latch, the sled hurls down an icy track. Those who ride it claim they feel like a kid again!

A few other Quebeck activities you can enjoy outdoors include ice skating, skiing, snow tubing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snow rafting.

The Patinoire de la Place d’Youville is one of the most scenic ice skating rinks in Quebec. Located on Rue Saint-Jean, the open-air rink is open from mid-October to mid-March. A perfect addition to your Quebec City winter trip.

Skating at night with Old Town as a backdrop is a delightful experience.

Valcartier Vacation Village is located just 20 minutes north of Quebec City and offers over 35 snow-covered slopes, illuminated skating paths, and more.

Mont-Saint-Anne offers skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.

8. Walk Through Festi Lumiere

Enjoy the winter light fantasyland complete with magnificent evergreens, light projection, and more set to holiday music all winter long. The aquarium gardens are popping with color as 500,000 colorful LED lights turn the pathways into an enchanted forest. The annual light festival held at the Aquarium du Quebec runs till the end of February. There are a lot of reasons to visit during the winter in Quebec City .

9. Visit Quebec City Ice Hotel

You don’t have to stay there if the thought of sleeping in a room surrounded by ice makes you shiver. But make time to tour the Hotel de Glace . A mere 10 minutes outside the city, Ice Hotel in Quebec City is one of only a handful of ice hotels in the world and the only one in North America. Hotel de Glace is completely rebuilt each year with a different theme. The massive Ice Hotel structure boasts 44 rooms with snow-carved walls, rock-solid ice beds with thermal sleeping bags, and artistic lighting. Imagine an ice suite featuring private spas and romantic fireplaces.

It is a different kind of luxury, and the best way to experience it is an overnight stay. But freezing while you sleep isn’t something most mature travelers look forward to.

The day tour will suffice, and it includes walking through each room, the chapel, and the ice slide (brave souls can give it a slide!). You have the opportunity to take in the ice and snow architecture without sleeping there. I suggest taking the tour and following it with lunch at the hotel’s restaurant or visiting the Ice Workshop to learn how to make an ice glass. Quebec City Ice Hotel is right next to Valcartier Vacation Village and is usually open from January 2 to mid-March.

A visit to Hotel de Glace is undoubtedly one of those bucket-list items for the more adventurous traveler.

10. Celebrate The Quebec City Winter Carnival

A winter trip is not complete without attending the Quebec City Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Quebec) . Think massive snow sculptures, street parties, family-friendly rides and activities, and the world’s most famous seven-foot snowman, Bonhomme.

One of the world’s most famous winter festivals, the Winter Carnival hosts ice canoeing events and a nighttime parade. Quebec City has welcomed visitors to join the party that runs from the end of January to mid-February.

Robin O’Neal Smith

11. Taste Sweet Maple Taffy

You can’t miss tasting this sugary-sweet maple taffy that is the quintessential Quebec treat. While eating it is delicious, making your syrup lollipop is a fun experience. Maple syrup drizzled over a fresh blanket of snow begins to harden after about 30 seconds. Then you dip the edge of a popsicle stick onto the taffy and roll it up. This treat is sure to satisfy the sweet tooth, and you might even want to create a second one. (Ask me how I know!)

Maple taffy stations are all around town. You will find them during the Winter Carnival, and Maple Sugar Shacks pop up everywhere in March and April when the maple sap begins to flow from the trees.

12. Relax At A Scandinavian Spa

Just 20 minutes from downtown Quebec City, Siberia Spa welcomes visitors year-round to relax in its outdoor Scandinavian-inspired spa. Based on the thermotherapy concept, guests luxuriate in sweltering hot saunas and eucalyptus-infused steam rooms before plunging into frigid cold pools. This practice is said to eliminate toxins, increase circulation, and strengthen the immune system.

They have many other luxury spa treatments and lounges. It is an excellent way to spend a day or even an evening after being out in the cold weather exploring the city.

There are several spas in the town, too.

13. Enjoy the Food

Home of delicious French Canadian food, Quebec City is a foodie’s dream come true . You can find maple everything in Quebec City, plus lots of other food such as poutine and tourtiere .

Poutine is a dish of crispy french fries topped with “squeaky” cheese curds and gravy. Tourtiere is a meat pie. It includes a pie crust with minced meat and spices.

If you enjoy food, I suggest taking a food tour in Quebec . I took one when I visited two years ago, and it was delightfully delicious.

We sampled food, maple candy, chocolates, and some drinks. Food tours are an excellent way to sample various foods, plus enjoy a guided walking tour and learn about local culture and history! My favorite maple food treat on our food tour was the maple smoked salmon!

I could go on forever about specific places to visit. There are museums, historical sites, day trips to Montmorency Falls, Ile d’Orleans, and Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre. There is so much to see and do in Quebec City during every season. I’m positive you will be planning the next trip before you leave. Enjoy your time in this charming French Canadian City.

14. Ride the Ferry

Québec‑Lévis ferry across the St.Lawrence River to Levis and back is not just a means of transportation, but a fun, affordable, and accessible activity as well. You will enjoy seeing the winter in Quebec City like never before.

From watching the ice float down the river from the pier to taking in the most beautiful views of Quebec City, its icy waterfront, and views of Chateau Frontenac rising above Québec’s picturesque Old Town, the 12-minute journey each way will melt your heart.

The Quebec-Levis crossing is easy to ride and offers a fun way to see the city from the water and a viewpoint you can rarely see without a boat tour.

15. Dog Sledding

While at Mont Saint-Anne, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to go dog sledding with Les Secrets Nordiques , a company that runs dog sledding trips. 

The best thing about Les Secrets Nordiques is that they provide cold-weather clothing like snow pants, parkas, and snow shoes. If you are bringing your winter gear, don’t forget to take hand and foot warmers with you as well.

The cost is about $100 per person but make sure to book in advance because this is a popular activity.

During the winter months, the temperature is usually in the 20s during the day and drops into the teens or below at night. So pack appropriately and wear lots of layers so you can shed them if you warm up.

Sweaters, wool socks, scarves, gloves, a hat, lined leggings, warm boots, and a winter coat are a must.

While Quebec City is French Canadian, most people speak English as well.

A few shopkeepers only speak French. Be aware that French is the dominant language in Quebec City. So learn a few basic French words before your visit.

If you stay in the heart of Old Town, you will be able to walk to most places, but if you need transportation, taxis are less expensive in Quebec City than Ubers. You will find taxis around the city. Just hail them down when one is needed. Or take a tour bus. Old Quebec Tours offers various routes with hop-on, and hop-off capabilities. We used this the last time we visited.

Quebec City uses Canadian Currency. You can use your international credit card if you have one.

How Much Time Do You Need in Quebec City in Winter?

Spend at least 3 days in Quebec City during winter to fully enjoy all the fun winter things. Explore Old Québec on the first day, then branch out to such other neighborhoods as St-Roch and Montcalm for the rest of your visit.

Does Québec City Get a Lot of Snow?

Yes. With an average snowfall of over 124 inches each year, Québec City is a winter wonderland. Based on data over the last 65 years, there’s a 97% chance of having a white Christmas in Quebec City.

Can I Depend on Activities to Be Open When Visiting Quebec City in Winter?

Not entirely. Winter doesn’t just bring closures, but some winter-specific activities might be canceled too. Just as you can’t depend on good weather during the summer for certain activities, the same can be said for planning a trip to Quebec City in winter. 

Is Driving in Winter in Quebec City a Good Idea?

Due to road closures, getting stuck in snow banks, and black ice, driving in Quebec City in winter is not advised. Even with snow tires, it is challenging to climb the hills in Old Quebec.

Is Quebec City Romantic in Winter?

Yes, there’s no denying how romantic Quebec City looks in winter. With all the freshly fallen snow on the roads and rooftops and the Christmas lights, it’s a winter fairytale. The city’s European charm, restaurants, and beautiful historic streets all add to Québec City’s romantic reputation.

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

• Quebec City Activities

50 Things To Do in Quebec City in Winter

• April 9, 2019
• 10 min read

Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Pamela MacNaughtan

Quebec City in winter is frigid and magical, especially after the first snowfall when the cobblestone streets and historic buildings of Old Quebec City are covered in a layer of fluffy white snow. Turning the city into a magical winter wonderland that transforms adults into playful children.

Winter in Quebec City generally begins in November, with snow arriving sometime in December and hanging around until April (and sometimes early May!).

Plenty of time to work your way through a bucket list filled with things to do in Quebec City in winter. From festivals and Christmas markets to outdoor adventures, indoor parks and food, Quebec City is packed with things to do and experience.

here are 50 things to do in quebec city in winter!

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Carnaval de Quebec is two weeks of parades, parties, activities, and more. It’s one of the best parts of Quebec City in winter. Plus, there is Bonhomme and his majestic ice palace, and ice canoe races across the nearly frozen Saint-Lawrence River. ( February )

Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) opens its doors, beckoning people to wander through its icy hallways and bars and hotel rooms. It has a different theme each year, two ice bars, a stunning chapel, and plenty of hand-carved ice sculptures. Take a tour or spend the night. ( January–March )

Marché de Noël Allemand de Québec (German Christmas Market) ushers in the holiday season each year. Shop for Christmas gifts and souvenirs, taste festive treats, listen to live music and enjoy theatrical performances. It is one of my favourite parts of Christmas in Quebec City . This is an LGBTQIA2S+ safe space. ( Nov 24th-Dec23rd )

The Toboggan Festival is a New Year’s festival filled with outdoor concerts, food shacks, wine and beer gardens, warming huts, and so much more! Enjoy parties and parades. Dress warmly and dance the nights away. It’s a fun way to ring in the new year. ( December )

Enjoy the festive lights in Petit-Champlain and Place-Royale . Wander the snow-covered cobblestone streets and shop for souvenirs, snap a ridiculous amount of Christmas-y photos, and try not to drool too much at the staggering beauty of these historic neighbourhoods.

Ride the Dufferin Slide . One of the original attractions in Quebec City, the Dufferin Slide is run by Au 1884 (beside Fairmont Château Frontenac on Dufferin Terrace). For $10 you get 3 rides down the slide on a long wooden toboggan – and a lifetime of laughs and memories.

The Christmas Magic Tour is a lovely way to experience the beauty of Old Quebec City during the Christmas season. Wander snowy streets and admire the beautiful decorations. Learn a little history and perhaps do a little Christmas shopping too! A superb 3-hour walking tour.

The Christmas gourmet food tour starts in Old Quebec City. You’ll eat your way through the old city and into the neighbourhood of Saint-Jean-Baptiste . Sample scrumptious Quebecois cuisine, maple treats and possibly ice cider as well. Learn about the history of Quebec City and soak up the winter atmosphere.

Le Grand Marché de noël is a popular Christmas market with locals, who shop at the market throughout the year for fresh produce, meat, cheese, bread, and beer. During the holiday season, the market is filled with artisans selling all kinds of holiday treats and handicrafts. ( December )

Snow tubbing at Village Vacances Valcartier . A favourite winter activity with many locals, Villiage Vacances Valcartier is the place to go for riding a rubber inner tube down a snowy hill. Honestly, if you have not tried snowtubbing, you really should. And, after you’re done, consider exploring Hôtel de Glace as well! A ski jacket, pants, and goggles are recommended.

While many tours in Quebec City operate from May to October, there are a few excellent ones that operate in winter as well. Here are some recommendations!

A walking tour of Old Quebec City with a knowledgeable tour guide is one of the best ways to begin your time in the city. This FREE 1 hr 45 min walking tour comes with an engaging and fun guide, Sam, as well as interesting facts and insights into the city and its history. While the tour is free, tipping is highly recommended.

Winter Fat Biking Tour of Old Quebec . A somewhat unique way to experience Quebec City in winter. The tour cost includes gear, a guide, a hot beverage and a snack. It’s about 3 hours.

Guided Tours of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac  are offered throughout the year, but during Christmas in Quebec City, this historic holiday is filled with gorgeous decorations. Plus, the winter views from the hotel are spectacular. Available on Christmas day.

Old-time guided snowshoe tours on the Plains of Abraham are a popular activity each winter. Join a guide dressed in old-time winter gear, and embrace the crisp winter air and crunchy snow.

Snowshoeing Tour in Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier is an invigorating experience. This is a 3-5 hour guided tour which includes gear, transportation, and a warm beverage.

The Old Quebec City Food Tour is a yummy introduction to Quebec City’s food scene. Taste Quebecois comfort foods and traditional favourites at locally-owned restaurants. The tour offerings vary in winter, it is best to check their website for details, as well as booking tickets.

Evening Gourmet Tour (5 Course Dinner)  is possibly the most luxurious food tour in Quebec City. I’ve enjoyed this tour through Old Quebec in summer, but Christmastime adds a bit of holiday magic. Plus you can do this on Christmas day!

The Beer & Food Tour explores the streets of Saint-Roch , sampling 9 different beers, tasting some yummy eats, and discovering more about local life in Quebec City. Not a drinker? No problem, you can still book the tour and skip the beer! Just email for a discounted price.

Quebec City craft brewery & beer tasting tour is three hours of visiting some of the city’s best breweries , sampling tasty beers and learning a little history along the way. Tours are only available on Saturdays in November and December. 

Hire a private tour guide. While guided group tours can be fun, hiring a private tour guide allows you to enjoy a Quebec City tour tailored to your interests and passions. Here are some of our favourite tour guides in Quebec City.

don’t forget to tip your guides! tipping is customary in quebec (and canada), and 15-20% per person is recommended.

outdoor adventures

Quebec City winter is best enjoyed outdoors, embracing the crisp winter air and living your best winter life. Honestly, if you want to experience Quebec like locals, outdoor adventures are one of the best ways to do it!

Alpine touring , an outdoor adventure activity that combines downhill skiing and backcountry hiking, is an epic winter activity. Le Massif in Charlevoix is one of the best places for Alpine Touring, with plenty of trails and a ski bus which makes it easy to get to Le Massif from your hotel in Quebec City.

Dogsledding in rural Quebec through a snow-capped forest, pulled by eager dogs who love to run, can be quite invigorating. Les Secrets Nordqiues is one of the better-rated tour providers.

Fat biking in Parc national Jacques Cartier , communing with nature, is sure to perk you up – especially on crisp winter days. This 3-hour excursion takes place in Jacques Cartier National Park, just 20 minutes from Old Quebec City. Perfect for first-timers and experienced cyclists.

Ice canoeing on the Saint-Lawrence River is not for the faint of heart, or legs (ha!). It’s hard work, as travel writer, Robin Esrock ( Great Canadian Bucketlist ), attests above, but it’s worth it. The excursion lasts roughly 3 hours, with one hour spent getting across the Saint-Lawrence River.

Ice canyoning is a half-day activity. You’ll learn to repel on a rope and abseiling verticals of 20m before repelling down Jean-Larose Falls – all under the watchful eyes of a trusted guide. A thrilling activity.

Skiing and snowboarding in Charlevoix . Enjoy some fresh powder on the slopes of Mont-Saint-Anne or out at Le Massif in Charlevoix. Drive yourself or ask your hotel whether a ski bus is available. Dress warmly and plan to spend the day on the slopes!

Ski-shoeing in Parc national Jacques-Cartier. You have probably heard of cross-country skiing, but have you heard of ski-shoeing?! A mix of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, take a 3-hour guided tour through Jacques Cartier National Park.

Guided snowmobile tour . Did you know that the snowmobile was invented in Quebec? Yup, it was! There are hundreds of kilometres of snowmobiling trails in Quebec, all begging to be explored.

fun outdoor activities

There are outdoor adventures, which generally require a moderate level of fitness, and then there are fun outdoor activities that are suitable for any fitness level. Here are a few activities we love!

Aquarium du Québec   is fun for people of all ages, and it’s open year-round. Yay! Visit arctic animals, and watch mealtimes. You can also explore the deep sea, fresh water and saltwater pavilions. This is an outdoor and indoor activity.

Ice fishing on Lac Beauport . Ice fishing can be enjoyed on lakes and rivers throughout the province. While you’ll see ice fishing huts on the Saint-Lawrence River, consider venturing out to Lac Beauport instead. Poles are available for rent on-site. Guides are also on hand to provide training.

Ice skating at Place D’Youville . Every winter, the square in Place d’Youville turns into a large outdoor ice skating rink, complete with a skate rental shop. Enjoy the lights of the old city as you skate the day or night away, and when you’re done, drink delicious chocolat chaud to warm you up!

Nordic spa   treatments and thermal experiences can be found in Old Quebec, as well as just outside the city limits.  Strøm spa  is the closest and the biggest.  Halte O Spa  is further out, and worth the drive.

Ride the Quebec-Lévis ferry for breathtaking views of Quebec City. Bring a bottle of ice cider or wine and a couple of plastic cups, dress warmly and enjoy the beauty of Quebec’s skyline in all its magical winter glory. It is especially spectacular (and chilly!) after dark.

Terrasse Pierre Dugua-de-mons has one of the best views of Old Quebec. If you want to capture the perfect winter postcard, the terrace should be the first place you go.

Montmorency Falls is breathtaking all year, but in winter snow and ice make these majestic waterfalls sparkle. Take bus #800 and visit the waterfalls on your own, or opt for a guided tour. Either way, consider visiting to do a little ice climbing, snowshoeing, or grabbing some snaps for your Instagram.

indoor activities

As much as we enjoy spending time outside during a Quebec City winter, indoor activities help keep us sane during the long winter months. Thankfully, there are many different activities to choose from to keep yourself busy. Here are some of our favourites!

Observatoire de la Capitale  is open from Tuesday to Friday, and on a clear day, the views of the city are breathtaking, especially in winter. Reservations required. They are closed from December 24th to 28th.

La Citadelle de Quebec . Walk along the top of the walls of La Citadelle de Québec towards Terrasse Pierre-Dugua-de-mons for a spectacular view of Old Quebec City, and take a tour of the Citadelle and museum. Home to the Royal 22nd Regiment.

Go to a Hockey Game . One should always make time to watch a hockey game while in Canada, and although there is not an NHL team in Québec City (sigh, we miss the Nordiques), there is a minor league team that is quite good, Remparts de Québec , which plays games at the Videotron Centre.

Musée national des beaux-arts de Quebec . Spend an afternoon admiring art by famous Quebec, and international, artists at Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec. Wander through the section which was once a jail, and visit the stunning Pierre Lassonde Pavillion.

Venture into the Musé de la Civilisation and wander through exhibits on the inhabitants of Québec, Canada, and around the world. Be sure to make time for their special exhibits as well! There are a few fab museums open all year!

Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral  is home to the Holy Door and a beautiful church. When open to the public, I highly recommend going inside, whether you’re religious or not.

Cathédrale Holy Trinity  is a beautiful historic church near Château Frontenac. During the Christmas holiday season, they often hold concerts, some of which are free to attend.

Bora Indoor Waterpark is absolutely divine on a frigid winter day. Spend a few hours outside, snow tubing, or exploring Hôtel de Glace, then enjoy the waterslides and pools inside Bora. Be warned, it may be difficult to get your kids to leave!

food + drink

Quebec City’s food scene is truly fantastic, and getting better every day. While we could go on and on about where to eat and drink, we’ll focus on sharing a few wintertime eats we think everyone should try!

Drink chocolat chaud . Everyone who visits Quebec City should try real chocolat chaud (hot chocolate). The best chocolat chaud in Quebec City can be found at Érico’s on rue Saint-Jean or Bar Artefact inside Auberge Saint-Antoine. There are also excellent cups at La Maison Smith, comptoir boréal , Café Saint-Henri and Au 1884.

Try Maple Taffy . A popular winter snack in Quebec, maple taffy is made by pouring boiling maple syrup on fresh cold snow, then rolling with a popsicle stick. It’s sweet and utterly delicious. In winter, you’ll find maple taffy throughout Old Quebec City. Try places like Au 1884, La Maison Smith Place-Royale, and down on rue du Petit-Champlain.

Eat poutine . Everyone should eat poutine while in Quebec City, unless, of course, you’re celiac (sad face). In winter, we recommend Chez Ashton as they offer discounts based on the weather: -20ºC = 20% off your poutine. Score! Of course, if you want to try gourmet poutine then Le Chic Shack is a good place to start.

Go on a Quebec City pub crawl . Sure, you could do your own pub crawl. It is pretty easy, just visit as many bars as you can until you’re too drunk to walk. OR you can go on a five-hour pub crawl tour, meet new people and know that no matter what happens, you’ll still get back to your hotel or hostel at the end of the night.

Eat traditional tourtière . A trip to Quebec City is not complete until you have tried traditional Québécois cuisine, and it doesn’t get more traditional than tourtière. Despite what you may think, traditional tourtière is usually not made with ground beef, but with cubes of wild game. So good.

Quebec craft beer is practically an institution, and there are a few breweries in Quebec City to enjoy while you’re in town.

• Korrigane Brasserie Artisanale  is a female-owned microbrewery in the neighbourhood of Saint-Roch. They brew seven different beers. The food menu here is excellent as well.
• La Barberie  is on the outskirts of Saint-Roch. It has 12 beers on tap and several others which can be bought by the can or bottle. The menu is a handful of snack items.
• La Souche  in Limoilou has a staggering amount of beers, 66 in total. Some are only available in summer, and others are only available in winter. The food menu is very good here.
• Noctem Artisans Brasseurs  in Saint-Roch has 12 beers on tap, all with cat-like names. The food menu is good and offers some vegetarian dishes.
• Griendel Brasserie Artisanale  has 14 beers on tap and one cider. The space is big with floor-to-ceiling windows. The food menu is quite good.

don’t forget to tip your servers! tipping is customary in quebec (and canada), and 15-25% is recommended.

artisans + producers: quebec city shopping ideas

There are plenty of shops and boutiques to visit in Quebec City, but in my opinion, the best places to shop are ones that support local artisans and producers – whether they are from Quebec City or elsewhere in the province.

Petit-Champlain  is the oldest shopping street in Quebec City, and gorgeous in winter when snow covers the 18th and 19th-century buildings. It’s filled with artisanal shops and restaurants. Here are some of my favourites:

• Boutique Amimoc  – Known for their high-quality Quebec-made boots and mocassins.
• Flamand Sculpteur  – A talented wood sculptor.
• Charlevoix Pure Lane  – Sweaters, hats, mittens and other goods made with sheep’s wool from the Charlevoix region.
• Fromagerie   Ferme Audet  – Producer of goat cheese, and goat’s milk toiletries.
• Boutique Oclan  – Clothing boutique, famous for its Fucklamode apparel.
• Les Ptits Mosüs  – Children’s clothing boutique

Article 721  in Limoilou is one of my favourite places for Quebec-made products, from prints and clothing to jewellery, skincare, and art prints. They also have a small collection of vintage home goods and second-hand clothing.

Les Trouvailles de Jules  is a small boutique/épicerie on rue Sainte-Anne near artist alley. Its shelves are filled with artisanal souvenirs, from Quebec terroir to handicrafts. Including, at times, gorgeous plates by ceramicist,  Patrick Lebond .

Pamela MacNaughtan

Hello, I'm Pamela! I'm a travel and food writer, chocolat chaud addict, an anglophone who prefers life in Quebec. When I'm not working on Urban Guide Quebec, I am writing about Quebec City, travelling, updating guidebooks, and writing freelance! There's a good chance I'm planning my next Quebec road trip, got tips?

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By: Author Caroline Ikeji

Categories Canada , North America , Travel Guides

Quebec City in winter is an absolute fairytale. Walking through the city was like living inside of a snowglobe, with quaint stone buildings, charming cobblestone streets, and even its own castle – all of which look especially spectacular covered in a layer of fresh snow.

I had the opportunity to spend 2 days in Quebec City (along with Montreal ) in December, and the city really becomes extra magical, with authentic Christmas markets (just like the ones in Munich and Prague ), festive storefronts, and twinkling lights that hang above its streets. 

Quebec City came onto my radar when I had to cancel (yet another) Europe trip (thanks to you-know-what). I’d intended to visit the Christmas markets, and was looking for an alternative when I started reading about how incredible winter in Quebec City is (as is Montreal ).

While I’ve traveled to several destinations in Canada and fallen in love with them, visiting Quebec City during winter (and particularly December in Quebec City) has a whole special kind of magic.

The city has a very European vibe, thanks to its unique history, and visiting Quebec City is the next best thing to being in Europe (like Leavenworth, WA ). You’ll find charming historical buildings, cobblestone streets, and hear French being spoken all around you. The best part – you get all of this without having to leave North America!

I’d been told that I would fall in love with Quebec City – I just didn’t realize exactly how much.

If you are looking for an idyllic winter getaway, or want to experience some fairytale European vibes without having to go all the way to Europe (hey – the plane ticket is much cheaper!), then look no further than Quebec City. 

Read on for everything you need to know about visiting winter in Quebec City!

**Disclosure: This post is written in partnership with Destination Quebec Cite . As always, all opinions are my own.

This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase or booking, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Pictures & Words is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites at no cost to you.

Winter Weather in Quebec City

Yes – winter in Quebec City is definitely cold (especially at night), so pack accordingly! Quebec City is definitely much colder than Vancouver in the winter, but still milder than in mountainous regions such as Banff .

Average temperatures in during the winter months are below:

• December in Quebec City : 26°F (-3°C) high / 14°F (-10°C) low
• January in Quebec City: 20°F high (-6°C) / 6°F (-13°C) low
• February in Quebec City: 24°F high (-4°C) / 8°F (-13°C) low
• March in Quebec City: 33°F high (0.5°C) / 18°F (-8°C) low

Snow and ice are also common during the winter months, which means that you will need sturdy, slip-proof shoes when visiting. I also recommend getting a pair of ice grips to help with walking on the ice – it is no joke (and I slipped a few times)!

However, the snow does really turn the city into a magical winter wonderland!

I visited in Quebec City in December (during the earlier parts of the month), and not gonna lie, it was cold. As someone who has lived in California all her life, I tend to avoid the cold, so I was a bit afraid upon seeing the weather forecast! 

The highs were in the teens Fahrenheit during the daytime, and with proper layers, it didn’t feel so bad. It got into the single digits Fahrenheit at night and I definitely got cold super quick! It also snowed pretty much my entire time there (I didn’t mind it though – it truly felt like I was living inside a snow globe).

What to Pack for Winter in Quebec City

As I mentioned earlier, packing the proper layers and gear are absolutely key when visiting Quebec City in the winter. Having good layers will keep you warm in those cold temperatures!

Here are some of the items to pack for your Quebec City winter getaway:

• Base layers/thermals : I’ve been wearing the Uniqlo Heattech shirts for years and they definitely came in handy during my time in Quebec City! I love that they are lightweight but keep you warm without making you sweaty and moist. I packed a few of the standard ones, but kind of wish I got some Extra Warm or even Ultra Warm ones.
• Warm Winter Coat: I wear a coat similar to this one , that has served me well on my winter trips.
• Puffy Jacket: For winter days that are less cold, OR as an extra layer of warmth under your coat. I recently got a Patagonia Nano Puff jacket and LOVE it – it is lightweight and packable, but super warm!
• Thermal tights or underwear : I packed a couple pairs of Uniqlo Heattech tights to wear under my pants.
• Snow Boots : You NEED something that will withstand the snow. I have a pair of snow boots from Colunbia that I LOVE – they are sturdy, comfortable, and warm! Unfortunately, they were discontinued, but here is another similar pair .
• Ice Grips : I don’t think I was expecting as much ice as there was on the streets, and it can be slippery AF –  it is no joke! I definitely ate it a few times. Definitely wish I had thought of getting some ice grips – they are pretty compact and very affordable.
• Fleece Lined Leggings : These are super comfy and warm. I ended up wearing these over my tights.
• Sweaters: For a warm, stylish layer. 
• Fleece zip-up : I love, love, LOVE my Columbia fleece zip-up for an extra warm layer under my outerwear!  
• Wool socks : I packed these and never once did my feet get cold.
• Leg warmers : Not only do they add a cute element to your outfit, they add another warm layer.
• Beanie : Keep your head warm and protected from the elements! I also packed a knitted headband to switch it up a bit.
• Warm Gloves : I recommend a pair that also allows you to use your touchscreen smartphone without taking them off.
• Scarves : I packed a thick infinity scarf , as well as a blanket scarf ( my FAVE! ).
• Hand Warmers : I was gifted some and I was sooo glad I had them! You can get the standard single-use ones , or a rechargeable one ! 
• Power Bank : To keep your devices charged as you explore Quebec City in the winter! The cold makes your battery drain faster, so this is a must. I never travel without my go-to power bank – one charge will give five full charges to your devices.
• Lotion : Winter weather tends to dry out your skin, so be prepared with some good moisturizing lotion!
• Lip balm : Same with your lips. Here is my favorite lip balm , especially for those winter months.

Getting to Quebec City

Quebec City’s Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) offers direct connections to destinations in Canada, North America, and even Europe. The airport is located 16 kilometers (~10 miles) outside the city.

From here, you have several options for getting to the city center:

• Car rental : If you plan to explore attractions outside of the city, or want to visit surrounding areas in Quebec, renting a car may be the best option for you. The airport is served by several major car rental agencies, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. They are located on the ground level of the administrative building.
• Taxi : There are a number of taxi companies that serve the Quebec City area. The fare to destinations in downtown Quebec City is a flat  $35.10, and the trip takes about 25 minutes.
•   Public transit: There are two RTC bus lines that serve the airport. Take the 76 or 80 bus to connect to downtown Quebec City. You can transfer to another bus from either of these to get to the Old Town. Buses depart every 30 minutes, and the fare is $3.40 if paid electronically (via tap card or phone app), or $3.75 cash.

Daily rail service is offered by VIA Rail, which connects Quebec City to Montreal and Ottawa. From here, you can connect to other Canadian destinations as well.

I took a train for one way of my trip to Quebec City from Montreal and found it a relaxing way to travel! The trip took about 3.5 hours and there are several departures available throughout the day.

Do note that fares are based on demand, and do fill up quickly during busy times, so book as early as you can! When I first started looking, a one-way ticket was around $30, but by the time I booked it was around $70.

There are two train stations in Quebec City. Likely, the most convenient station to your accommodations is probably Gare du Palais is the city’s central station, a few minutes’ walk from Old Quebec. However, if you have a lot of luggage (or don’t want to carry it on the icy sidewalks), there are also taxis waiting outside the station.

The second station is Gare de Sainte-Foy, located about 15 kilometers outside of downtown Quebec.

Daily coach bus service from Montreal to Quebec City is also offered from Orleans Express . The trip takes 3 hours, depending on traffic.

I took the bus for the other part of my trip and was pleasantly surprised to find it to be a comfortable way to travel! The buses had reclining seats, tables, power outlets, and even WiFi. 

The thing that I liked most about taking the bus is that it offers more departures than the train, so it felt more convenient. However, keep in mind that much like the train, pricing is based on demand and can sell out during busy periods, so book as early as you can!

How to Get Around Quebec City in Winter

Many of the best things to do in Quebec City in winter are located within its Old Town, which is relatively compact and super walkable. Exploring the city on foot is the best way to take in its magical winter wonderland vibes. 

Just keep in mind that the ground can be covered in snow and ice, so wear sturdy, waterproof shoes (and consider getting a pair of microspikes – I definitely wished I had some!) and dress warmly!

Public Transit 

For reaching attractions outside Old Quebec (or if you just don’t want to walk), Quebec City has a relatively well-connected bus system operated by Réseau de transport de la capitale (RTC) . I used it once during my stay and found it very efficient and easy to use!

Fares start at $3.40 for a single ride, and can be paid with cash on board (in which case the fare is $3.75), or via the RTC app. You can also opt to get a reloadable OPUS card. One-day, weekend, and five-day passes are also available. 

For getting in between the Upper Town and Lower Town in Old Quebec, you can also take a funicular (which saves you from having to climb up stairs).

While Uber supposedly operates in Quebec City, I did not find any available cars in the app during my stay. However, there are several taxi companies that serve Quebec City to help you get around easily. 

There were taxis lined up in front of the train station upon arrival, and my hotel was able to easily call for one upon request (without much of a wait). I was also given a dispatch number – (418) 525-5191 . I did not use it, but was told that there should be someone who speaks English if you call.

Rental car 

If you plan to do some Quebec City winter activities that lie outside of the city center, take day trips to nearby destinations, or you want to explore other destinations in the Quebec province, you may want to consider renting a car for maximum flexibility. 

However, it is not necessary to have a car in the city center itself (and can be a bit of a challenge due to parking woes), so consider renting a car just for when you need it/on your way out.

Do exercise caution when driving on winter roads, and note that special regulations are in effect during the winter months. From November 1-April 15, it is prohibited to park in streets where snow removal needs to be carried out. Pay attention to flashing orange lights, which are activated before snow removal. Also note that between December 1-March 15, all vehicles (including rental cars) must have snow tires if it is registered in Quebec. However, they are highly recommended on all vehicles for safety reasons.

Rentals can be easily secured at Quebec City’s Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB), which is served by many major car rental companies, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz.

Other things to know about visiting Quebec City

Language in Quebec City

Do you need to speak French in Quebec City? 

Since French is the official language of the Quebec province, a common misconception is that one must speak French, otherwise people will be rude to you. 

While, yes, 80% of the province’s residents are French native speakers and many of the signs and storefronts are in French, you will find that English is commonly spoken in the main tourist areas. 

Even though I tried to cram in some French lessons on Duolingo before I left for Quebec City, I found that I really did not need to use it at all. While it is helpful and polite to know a few basic French phrases, it is not necessary at all. 

If you want to practice your French, Quebec City is a fun place to do it! A few people humored me as I stumbled through my broken French and I was so appreciative.

Currency + Tipping

Canada’s official currency is the Canadian dollar. The exchange rate works out to around $1.25 USD to $1 CAD (it ends up being like an automatic 25% discount if coming from the United States, yay!).

I found that virtually all places that I visited during my Quebec City took credit cards, so you probably won’t need to take out any cash. The one notable exception to this is the Christmas Markets – you will definitely want to have a little bit of cash on hand as not all vendors accept cards! I took out some Canadian dollars when I first arrived in Montreal for this purpose.

Canada has a tipping culture similar to the US, so expect to tip 15-20% when dining out. Tips are also expected for taxis, hotel housekeeping, and bag service.

Canadian entry/exit requirements

Please note that the entry + health requirements are constantly changing and evolving. Be sure to check to see the current entry requirements here .

If traveling back to the United States: Do note that most Canadian airports offer pre-departure clearance when traveling back to the United States (including Montreal YUL airport). This means that you complete customs and immigration screening BEFORE departing Canada, not upon arrival in the US. As lines can sometimes be long, especially during busy times, be sure to leave some extra time at the airport when leaving.

Where to Stay in Quebec City

I stayed at the Monsieur Jean Hotel and loved my stay! Located in the heart of Old Quebec, this beautiful boutique hotel is conveniently located just steps away from many of the best things to do in Quebec City in winter (you can even see some of them right from your window).

The hotel’s design is inspired by its founder, and is meant to invoke a dreamlike state. You’ll find colorful art pieces, elegant furnishings, and a cozy atmosphere throughout the hotel, making it a unique place to stay. 

I loved the quirky touches in the lobby and common areas, including a machine that prints out a short story for you to read, and a self-playing piano. 

The rooms are beautiful, spacious, and comfortable, with fully-equipped kitchenettes, stylish accents, and beautiful views of the city. I enjoyed waking up each morning and gazing at the fairytale winter wonderland right outside my room!

My suite even came with a beautiful free-standing bathtub that had the most amazing view of the city – coming back to my room and soaking in here was something I looked forward to each night!

Things to Do in Quebec City in Winter

Take a Walking tour of Old Quebec

With its historic charm and storybook architecture, Old Quebec (also known as Vieux Quebec) feels like a place straight out of a fairytale. The best way to start off your visit to Quebec City winter itinerary is to take a walking tour of the area!

Bounded by the fortified gates to the city, Old Quebec is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and the best explored on food. You’ll walk through quaint streets, see charming historical buildings, and see some of the sites where significant events and battles took place.

I took a self-guided audio tour from Tours Voir Quebec , which was the starting point to kick off my visit to Quebec City in winter. It gave me an awesome overview of the area, as well as the history behind it. 

The tour took about 45 minutes and can be done at your own pace. It is also easy to follow, using your GPS location to help guide you through the tour. You’ll also get a lesson in the city’s history, as well as its significant events and figures.

If you’d like to explore the area with a local guide, this 2-hour walking tour comes highly recommended. This will take you around to all the notable landmarks in Old Quebec, as well as give you an insight into the city’s unique European history and charm.

Coming to Quebec City in December? There’s even a Christmas Magic walking tour , which will allow you to take in the special festive wonders around Old Quebec!

Visit an authentic German Christmas Market

Did you know that you don’t have to go all the way to Europe to experience an authentic Christmas Market? This is one of the best things about December in Quebec City, and one of the things that made me want to visit!

The Marche de Noel Allemand de Quebec runs roughly from the end of November to Christmas week every year (November 24-December 23 in 2022), taking place in the heart of the Old Town. There are 4 different sections of the Market, placed throughout the Old Town, each with its own look.

In total, there are almost 100 vendors at the Christmas Market, selling everything from traditional German specialties, such as pretzels and gluhwein (mulled wine), to Canadian specialties, such as wool and maple treats. 

There were so many things to try, and so many festive decorations to look at that I had to stop by several times! And I’ve gotta say – not only is the gluhwein delicious (I had at least 2 cups a day, shhh), it absolutely does wonders for keeping you warm while visiting Quebec City in December!

The Christmas Market features authentic German elements, such as wooden huts and decorations imported from Germany. This is because it was originally started by a group of German locals who wanted to share their heritage and traditions with the local community.

Honestly, if you can’t get yourself to Germany, then coming to Quebec City in December for the Christmas Markets is the next best thing! I loved being able to experience the magic of it all, without leaving North America. At times I swore I’d somehow transported myself to Germany!

Go ice skating at Place d’Youville

As an ice skating enthusiast (who still kinda sorta has aspirations to be the next Kristi Yamaguchi), one of my favorite things to do every winter is to hit up as many outdoor ice skating rinks as I can. So, obviously, I was super excited to see that there is one in Quebec City!

The outdoor ice skating rink at Place d’Youville is a part of the Christmas Market, and skating here was one of my favorite Quebec City winter activities!

You’ll glide past the Christmas decorations of the market and the Theatre Capitole on one side, and the majestic fortified gates and the Old Town on the other.

It is said to be absolutely magical at night, when all the decorations are lit up – a magical experience during December in Quebec City! However, I was too scared of the cold (I mean, it was single digits so can you blame me?) so I skated in the daytime and it was still beautiful! 

The snow was falling softly that day, and it felt like I was skating inside a snow globe. It was seriously one of my all-time favorite skating experiences!

The rink is open from early December until mid-March, making this one of the best things to do in Quebec City all winter long! Admission is free (skate rentals are $9, unless you bring your own skates, which YES I DID!), but you must make a reservation in advance here .

Admire the Christmas decorations around town

One of the best things about visiting Quebec City in December is seeing the festive Christmas decorations around town.

It’s not as well-known as the Christmas decorations in NYC , but Quebec City is known as one of the best Christmas cities in the world! One look at the city it’s easy to see why – you’ll feel like you’re living inside a Hallmark movie! 

You’ll find plenty of storefronts decked out with festive Christmas garb, as well as plenty of lights, installations, and displays all around town. There’s even a Christmas boutique here (which was featured in a famous Korean TV drama)! The best part? Some of the decorations stay up through the entirety of winter, so you can keep that festive spirit going for just a bit longer.

Here are some of the best places to see Christmas decorations in Quebec City:

• Quartier Petit Champlain (these decorations stay up until March!)
• Place Royale Christmas tree
• German Christmas market
• Place d’Youville
• Parliament Building
• Avenue Cartier
• Place l’Hôtel-de-Ville
• Le Château de Frontenac (the inside of the hotel gets decked out, and there is a display right outside as well)

This 2 hour walking tour is a fantastic way to get in the festive spirit and see some of the best decorations in the city!

Admire the Château Frontenac

The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is one of Quebec City’s most recognizable landmarks. It is also one of the most beautiful sights when visiting Quebec City in winter. Seeing the Château covered in snow makes it seem like a scene straight out of the movie Frozen – I definitely lived out my Princess Elsa fantasies here!

Did you know that the Château Frontenac is known as the most photographed hotel in the world? The Château is visible from many parts of the city, but there are several spots that offer the best views of it. Some of the best places to photograph it include the Dufferin Terrace , Pierre-Dugua-De Mons Terrace, and from Rue du Marche Champlain in Lower Town.

The Château Frontenac has a fascinating history, and has stood in Quebec City for over 125 years. Many famous people have stayed in the hotel over the years, and it was even used as a filming location for an Alfred Hitchcock movie. The hotel is also said to be haunted!

The inside of the hotel is equally stunning as the outside, with a grand lobby area and elegant rooms, with Art Deco details and wooden accents. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Quebec City in December, as the hotel was decked out in festive Christmas decorations! You’ll also find a collection of artifacts in the lobby that tell the story of both the hotel and the city.

Guided tours of the Chateau are also available, and take you to some areas of the hotel that are not accessible to the general public.

Pssst …. want to spend a night at the Chateau? Winter is the best time to do it! You can regularly find rooms going for under $300 during the winter months, whereas they usually are well over $500 in the summer. Compare room rates and book here !

Wander the charming Quartier Petit Champlain

Located in Quebec City’s Lower Town, the charming Quartier Petit Champlain is one of the main shopping streets in Quebec City, as well as one of the oldest in North America. You’ll find the street lined with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops. 

Its picturesque cobblestoned streets are decked out in festive decorations all winter long (and not just during the Christmas season!), making it seem straight out of a fairytale. It is especially spectacular when covered with a dusting of fresh snow!

Seeing magical photos of the Quartier Petit Chaplain covered with a dusting of snow, with twinkling lights overhead is what really convinced me to want to see winter in Quebec City. It really did not disappoint! It was an absolutely gorgeous sight and I could not get enough – I had to return a second time to see it again.

The Quartier Petit Champlain is most beautiful when you can see the lights twinkle against the sky. I suggest waiting until later in the day to visit. The lighting was a bit harsh when I first visited around noon, but I returned again about 30 minutes before sunset and it really was much more magical!

Climb the Breakneck Steps (Escalier Casse-Cou)

When visiting Queartier Petit Champlain, do not miss the view of the Quartier Petit Champlain from the Breakneck Steps (Escalier Casse-Cou) , which connects the Lower Town to the Upper Town. This is the oldest staircase in Quebec City and one of the best places to photograph the Quartier Petit Champlain.

The steps actually date back to the beginning of the French colony, and is one of the city’s notable historical landmarks. Back in 1620, Samuel de Champlain (aka the founder of Quebec City), decided to. build his home in Cape Diamant. He created a road, the côte de la Montagne (which still follows the same path today), and a path was constructed to bypass the steep incline. Eventually, wooden steps were built on the path.

In 1893, the wooden steps were replaced with a larger iron one. The current structure was put in place in the 1960s. The nickname “Breakneck Steps” was given by British tour guides – although no serious injuries have actually happened here!

While you can certainly take the funicular between the Upper and Lower Towns, it’s worth taking a trek up the 59 steps here. It is certainly a workout (I was definitely huffing and puffing!), but the views are so pretty here!

Visit Place Royale

Located in the Lower Town, right next to the Quartier Petit Champlain, Place Royale is known as the birthplace of Quebec City. It is here that Samuel de Champlain built the first French settlement in North America in 1608. 

The square was originally known as the Place du Marché and primarily served as a marketplace. In 1682, a fire burned down all the buildings in the settlement, which were made of wood. Because of this, new buildings were required to be built out of stone.

Place Royale is also home to the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church , the oldest stone church in North America. The church is built on the ruins of the home of Samuel de Champlain – you can still see the outline. It was damaged again during the Siege of Quebec, but was eventually restored and is now a National Historic Site.

When visiting Place Royale, do not miss the Fresque de Quebecois, a giant mural that tells the story of Quebec City. It serves sort of like an illustrated history of Quebec City, with depictions of some of the most notable buildings, fortifications, historical figures, writers, and artists.

Take the funicular

The historic Old Quebec Funicular (Funiculaire du Vieux-Quebec) connects the Upper Town with the Lower Town. It has been in operation since 1879, and takes you up 210 feet at a 45 degree angle. 

You’ll not only save yourself from huffing and puffing up stairs (and escape the cold for a little bit), but enjoy some stunning views of the St. Lawrence River, the Quartier Petit Champlain, and the Lower Town. It is one of the most fun things to do in winter in Quebec City!

I suggest taking the funicular up from the Lower Town, near the base of the Breakneck steps. At the top, you will end at the Dufferin Terrace, right near the Chateau du Frontenac.

The funicular operates from 9am to 9pm, seven days a week. A one-way ride costs $3.75.

Admire the view from the Observatoire de la Capitale

If you’re looking for some incredible Quebec City winter views, then you must check out the Observatoire de la Capitale observation deck! Situated on the 31st floor, you’ll find epic panoramic views of the entire city.

It’s especially spectacular in the winter, as you’ll see everything dusted in a layer of white snow, making the city look extra magical from above. It’s almost like you’re looking at the inside of the snow globe from up high!

Go down a toboggan slide 

This was one of my highlights of visiting Quebec City in winter (definitely not something I get to do often at home in California)! The toboggan slide at Dufferin Terrace is one of the city’s oldest attractions – the wooden slide has been here for over 135 years and it is SO much fun!

For $3.50 (a bargain if you ask me!), you can rent a toboggan at Au 1884 . You’ll have to carry the sled for a bit, then up the ramp (be careful as the snow can be a bit slippery). 

Once you get to the top, the fun begins! Hold on nice and tight and zoom down the slide at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, while you gaze at the beautiful views of the Chateau du Frontenac and the waterfront in front of you. 

Going down the slide was so fun and so thrilling (not gonna lie, I totally screamed haha) and is definitely one of the best Quebec City winter activities!

Learn about Quebec’s military history

Quebec City has a fascinating history as being the only fortified city north of Mexico. It has also been the site of many significant battles that have played a pivotal role in French and British history.

Here are some of the significant historical landmarks worth checking out:

Fortifications of Quebec

The Fortifications of Quebec surround the Upper Town of Old Quebec, spanning some 4.6 kilometers. I suggest admiring the fortifications from one of its gates. The Saint-Jean gate opens up into Rue Saint-Jean, one of the main streets of the city, and is also bordered by the Christmas Market on the other and looks especially beautiful in the winter (especially when covered with a dusting of snow).

From here, you can climb to the top of the fortifications for a view of the Old Town – although keep in mind that the steps can be slippery from ice and snow in the winter (I unfortunately passed on going to the top for this reason). From here, you can spend some time strolling along the fortification walls.

Guided tours are also offered of the Fortifications, which gives an insight into the significance of the structure, as well as Quebec City’s history. 

Citadelle of Quebec

Further along in Old Town, the Citadelle of Quebec also provides a unique look into the city’s history. Known as the “Gibraltar of the Americas,” the star-shaped Citadelle is the largest British fortress in North America and is a key part of the city’s fortifications. 

You’ll also find a museum, as well as a collection of historical buildings, including the oldest French military building in Canada. The Citadelle is also the official residence of the Governor General of Canada.

Plains of Abraham

Nearby the Citadelle is the Plains of Abraham , the site of the famous Battle of the Plains, when the British army defeated the French in a pivotal battle of the Seven Years’ War. The French never regained control of the territory, essentially making this moment the birth of Canada.

Today, the Plains of Abraham is a National Historical Park, featuring a number of interactive exhibits, as well as noteworthy monuments, commemorative plaques, canons, and more. 

It is also known as one of the most prestigious urban parks in the world, presenting a number of outdoor recreation opportunities, making it one of the best places to visit in winter in Quebec City.

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are some of the activities that you can partake in. In addition, there is an ice skating rink here that is open from mid-December to mid-March. 

Go shopping

If you are craving some retail therapy, Quebec City is full of one-of-a-kind shops where you can find unique local treasures.

You’ll find plenty of shops to check out while wandering the streets of Old Quebec. Rue Petit-Champlain not only looks straight out of a Christmas postcard, it is one of North America’s oldest shopping districts. You’ll find an array of local artisan boutiques here, as well as tons of shops selling unique Quebec souvenirs – I picked up a few maple products here to take home!

Nearby, the streets bordering the Old Port and Place Royal (such as Rue Saint-Paul and Rue Saint-Pierre) are teeming with art galleries and antique shops.

Rue Saint-Jean , one of the main streets in Old Quebec, is dotted with plenty of shopping opportunities as well. You’ll find plenty of souvenir shops here, as well as clothing boutiques, and specialty shops.

Aside from these, be sure to explore the side streets of Old Quebec as well, and you’ll find some one-of-a-kind shops tucked away in them. One can’t miss boutique is the La Boutique de Noël de Quebec , where it’s Christmas all year round! You’ll find plenty of unique items to get you into the holiday spirit, from ornaments, decorations and more. 

Eat hearty French Canadian food

One of the things I was looking forward to most about visiting Quebec City was the food – I’d heard that French Canadian cuisine was delicious and it absolutely did not disappoint! It is hearty, a bit gluttonous, and divine – the perfect way to fill your belly when spending winter in Quebec City.

Some of the things you should try – 

• Poutine: Probably the most famous dish from French Canadian cuisine! If you’ve never had it before, you’re in for a treat – poutine is a dish consisting of French fries topped with fresh cheese curds, and smothered in gravy. You’ll find a variety of other toppings as well.
• Meat pie (Tourtière) : Basically a Quebecois meat pie, with minced pork or beef that’s cooked in spices and baked in a flaky pie crust. Traditionally, it’s eaten on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Day. Every restaurant, sugar shack, or family has their own version, so you can try different ones!
• Baked beans (fèves au lard) : Literally translated as “beans in fat,” this is a dish consisting of beans, often seasoned with maple syrup, slow cooked in pork fat. It dates back to the days of pioneers and fur trappers, who consumed it as a hearty meal to keep them warm throughout the day.

• Pâté chinois: Think deconstructed Shepherd’s pie, consisting of mashed potatoes sitting on top of ground beef, onions, and corn. This is a meal that many people have at home, but there are a few restaurants that are serving it in town as well (I had it and it was delicious – the perfect way to warm up in winter in Quebec City!). While this translates to “Chinese pate,” there isn’t any influence from Chinese cuisine – it is said that pâté chinois was eaten by Chinese railroad workers as a hearty meal after a long, hard day of work.
• Poor man’s pudding (pouding chômeur): Originating during the Great Depression, this dessert was originally made out of sugar, flour, cream, and stale bread baked in maple syrup. These days, it’s made out of white cake instead. I will admit that when I originally read the description, it didn’t appeal to me; however, the staff at one of the restaurants I visited convinced me to try saying it was their favorite. I ended up loving it! It’s kinda like a maple syrup bread pudding but better!

Read more about traditional Quebecois cuisine here . 

Where to try French Canadian cuisine in Quebec City:

• La Buche : This was probably my favorite out of the spots tried in Quebec City! La Buche is a modern take on a sugar shack, serving traditional Quebecois cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. I had the pâté chinois and poor man’s pudding and both were amazing! They are known for their venison tourtière as well.
• Le Chic Shack : They mostly serve burgers and shakes, but this is one of the best places to eat Poutine in Quebec City. Their version uses potato wedges instead of fries, and it soaks up the delicious gravy so well! I tried the mushroom poutine here and it was SO. FREAKING. GOOD.
• Beclub : This was a recommendation from my hotel and it is Canadian comfort food at its finest! They are known for their smoked meats here, which you can try on poutine or their version of a club sandwich. I had the mac and cheese here, which came with smoked bacon and it was absolutely divine.
• Aux Anciens Canadiens : Sadly, I did not get to try Aux Anciens Canadiens, but it is known to have some of the best French Canadian food in the city. It’s actually operating inside Quebec City’s oldest house, which was built in 1675, and it has the cutest red and white exterior! You’ll find a variety of traditional Quebecois dishes here, but I’ve heard that the baked beans and meat pie here are phenomenal. 

Eat alllll the maple treats

Did you know that the maple syrup produced in the Quebec province accounts for 71% of the worldwide supply? Quebec produces a whopping 11 million gallons of maple syrup a year, from over 13,500 producers and 7,600 sugar groves.

That’s a whole lot of maple syrup, y’all! So obviously, you have to try some maple syrup while visiting Quebec City in winter.

You can sample a variety of maple treats without leaving the city – everything from candy, cookies (my favorite), taffy, cocktails, pastries…you name it, they have it.

If you get a chance, you definitely should try some maple taffy made in snow. Maple syrup is boiled and then poured into fresh snow, and popsicle sticks are inserted into them to create a sweet, chewy lollipop. 

You can find it at La Petite cabane à Sucre de Québec in Quartier Petit Champlain, a miniature sugar shack right in the heart of Old Quebec. It also sells a variety of other maple products that are perfect for souvenirs (I picked up a few other things here to bring home)!

If visiting Quebec City in February or even March, why not visit an authentic sugar shack? There are several sugar shacks located just outside of the city. This is a fun day trip and is one of the traditional Quebec City winter activities for many local families. You can sit down for a traditional meal, enjoy live folk music, and enjoy all the maple treats!

You can read more about sugar shacks and see where to visit here .

Take a ferry ride across the river

For some of the best views of Quebec City in winter, take a 12-minute ferry ride across the St. Lawrence River to Levis. 

From the water, you can truly appreciate the beauty of Quebec City, taking in spectacular views of the skyline, waterfront, and the Chateau Frontenac perched on top of the Upper Town.

At only $3.60 each way, it is also one of the most affordable Quebec City winter activities as well.

Visit Maison de Littérature

As someone who loves visiting libraries when traveling, I knew I had to visit Maison de Litterature when I saw photos of it. Known as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, Maison de la Littérature is housed in the former Wesley Church building which dates back to 1848.

The building was completely renovated in 1999, and has won numerous architectural awards for its innovative design and building concept. 

Maison de Littérature combines the modern with the traditional – you’ll see the traditional arched windows from its origins as a church, combined with an all-white interior, geometric chandeliers, and silhouetted signs using sans serif typefaces.

Along with a library, Maison de Littérature houses an exhibition dedicated to Quebec literature, promotes and supports local authors, and is intended as a writing, creating, meeting, and participating.

Relax at a Nordic spa

One of the best things to do in Quebec City in winter is to spend some time at a Nordic spa. Warm up by soaking in a heated whirlpool bath, and relaxing while gazing over views of the St. Lawrence River.

You can also opt to do a traditional thermal experience, which involves alternating between hot and cold baths in order to eliminate toxins and reduce stress.

There are several Nordic spas in the city, but Strøm Spa came highly recommended to me. You can also visit a number of spas located on the outskirts of the city, to soak and relax in a picturesque forest setting.

Visit a Museum

Visiting a museum is the perfect way to warm up after you get cold from doing other Quebec City winter activities. Plus, you get to learn something new!

The city boasts a number of acclaimed museums, where you can both warm up and learn something new. Some of the most notable include: 

• Musée du Fort : Learn about Quebec’s military history at this quaint museum, located right across from the Chateau Frontenac. They have a unique sound and light show, projected onto a scale model of the area in 1750, which tells the tale of some of the city’s most notable battles.
• Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec : This museum complex sits on the Plains of Abraham and is made up of 4 buildings, which houses over 40,000 works and boasts the largest art collection in Quebec. 
• Musée de la civilisation : This fascinating museum, which is also one of the most visited in Canada, has eye-opening exhibits about the history, culture, and people of Quebec, including the indigenous groups that call the area home. The rooftop terrace also has some amazing views of Old Quebec and beyond!

Attend the Winter Carnival

Quebec City’s Winter Carnival is one of the largest and most famous in the world. Every year, thousands visit the city in order to take part in the lively festival, which is a must if visiting Quebec City in February!

The Winter Carnival has been hosted every year since 1955, celebrating winter long-standing traditions. The festival has plenty of fun events and winter activities for all ages, from an ice canoe race on the St. Lawrence River, a night parade, snow sculptures throughout the city, ice skating, and more. You can also try Caribou, the official alcoholic beverage of the Carnival, made of brandy and similar to mulled wine.

In addition, an ice palace is built for Bonhomme, the carnival’s snowman ambassador. The palace is made entirely out of ice, with tons of ice sculptures, graffiti paintings by local artists, and more. It’s especially spectacular at night, when it is lit up in a dizzying array of colors!

You’ll also find tons of fun Quebec City winter activities at Bonhomme’s Campground, with a sugar shack, hot tubs, ice bar, life-sized foosball, and more.

Admire Montmorency Falls

Located just outside the city, the towering Montmorency Falls is an impressive sight and one of the highlights of winter in Quebec City. Standing  83 meters high (~272 feet), Montmorency Falls is actually a full 30 meters (almost 100 feet) higher than Niagara falls!

It is especially stunning during the winter months, when snow covers the cliffs, and the water starts to freeze over.

Montmorency Falls is just a 15 minute drive (or taxi ride) from Quebec City’s Old Town, but is also easily accessible by public transportation as well. Simply take the 800 bus departing from Gare du Palais, the city’s main train station. Or, you can take a guided tour .

You can take in the size and scale of Montmorency Falls from the viewing platforms, or from the suspension bridge. On some days, you can also take a cable car up to the top of the cliff, which will provide you with a unique vantage point of the falls and Île d’Orléans. Adventurous types can also take part in various winter excursions, such as snowshoeing or ice climbing.

Sadly, I did not have time to go to Montmorency Falls this visit, but I am dying to go back so I can see it – it looks spectacular!

Visit Village Vacances Valcartier

Village Vacances Valcartier is North America’s largest winter theme parks. It is one of the top places to visit in winter in Quebec and makes a perfect day trip, as it is only 30 minutes away from Quebec City.

Here, you’ll find tons of fun winter activities, such as snow tubing, ice skating, a sugar shack (with frozen maple syrup!), an indoor waterpark, and a 6000 square foot spa. There is lots of winter fun to be had here!

Visit North America’s only ice hotel

Also located at Village Vacances Valcartier is the famous Hôtel de Glace , North America’s only ice hotel, which provides visitors with a unique winter experience.

The hotel takes two months to build and is an architectural marvel made entirely out of snow and ice. Hôtel de Glace is only open for roughly 80 days each year, from January to March. 

For an unforgettable experience, you can even spend a night in the hotel, which is one of the most unique Quebec City winter activities (do keep in mind that rooms book up VERY quickly!). Each guest gets a guide, who helps you acclimate and ensure that you are comfortable throughout your stay.

You can also just visit the hotel to tour the grounds, as well as partake in some winter activities at the Winter Playground. You can also order a cocktail in a glass made of ice at the Ice Bar!

Unfortunately, I visited Quebec City outside of the ice hotel season, but I would love to come back to see it in person (the photos look quite impressive!).

More winter travel guides you may enjoy: 2 Perfect Days in Quebec City Montreal Winter Travel Guide The Perfect 2 Days in Montreal 2 Days in Vancouver Itinerary Winter in Munich: The Complete Guide A Fairytale Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter The Ultimate Guide to Prague in Winter The Ultimate Winter Guide to Leavenworth, Washington

Like this post? Save these things to do in Quebec City in winter to Pinterest for later!

Caroline is a Southern California based traveler, writer, and photographer. She travels all around California, the US, and the world in search of the most colorful places, the most delicious food, and bucket-list adventures. Her aim is to inspire other travelers discover how to add more adventure and joy to their lives. On Pictures & Words, you’ll find detailed guides + itineraries, along with vibrant photos to help you plan the the most epic trips. When she’s not traveling, Caroline also runs half marathons.

Québec City Winter Itinerary: Things to Do + Where to Stay

Québec City is the quintessential winter destination, offering beautiful snowscapes, quaint architecture, and cold-weather activities. Whether you’re visiting for a day or longer, here are some festive things to do, traditional foods to eat, and places to stay.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I may earn a small commission on any purchases, at no extra cost to you. This income helps me keep my blog running and is much appreciated!

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Québec City

1. visit the ice hotel.

The Hôtel de Glace is made entirely of ice and snow, making it an ethereal winter experience. To visit the hotel, you’ll have to venture about 30 minutes outside Québec City to the Valcartier Vacation Village, located in a more remote part of the region.

Each year, there are around 40 rooms in the Ice Hotel, with around 20 having a specially-sculpted design based on the annual theme. The 2021 theme is “Québec tales and legends.” In 2020, each room represented a previous year’s theme, and some of the standouts were the Jurassic Park, carnival, and jazz themed rooms.

While staying in the Ice Hotel will set you back 400+ CAD, you can visit for much cheaper; day passes are 23 CAD. If you’ll need transportation to the hotel, you can book a $55 tour from Québec City , which will pick you up in the old town. The “tour” is really just a bus ride there, and you can explore on your own (tickets to the Ice Hotel are included in the tour).

See my guide to visiting the Hôtel de Glace for more info.

2. Take a ride down the giant toboggan slide

The toboggan slide offers a stunning winter view of the famous Château Frontenac hotel, Dufferin Terrace, and St. Lawrence River.

The slide reaches speeds of up to 70km/hour (43mi/hour), making it exhilarating but not too intimidating. I personally didn’t experience that “stomach drop” that you’d typically feel during a roller coaster, so I found it more of a mild/moderate ride. Many kids and families were enjoying the ride as well.

Open from mid-December to mid-March, the toboggan costs around 4 CAD per person, with a pack of four tickets saving you a few bucks. You can have up to 4 people per toboggan, or go down solo.

3. Walk through Old Québec (Vieux-Québec)

Old Québec is split into two parts: the Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville) . The Upper Town is a bit more modern, but still incredibly quaint. It’s where you’ll find the Château Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace, old city walls, and colorful residences. There are many gift shops and both modern and traditional restaurants.

You can take the iconic Breakneck Stairs (Escalier Casse-Cou) down to the Lower Town, or take the funicular, which costs 3 CAD. Stroll through the Quartier Petit-Champlain, known for its local boutiques and particular-picturesque buildings. At the Place Royale, there’s a large Christmas tree and the oldest stone church in North American, Notre-Dame-de-Victoire.

Just a couple blocks away is the Instagram-famous Umbrella Alley (Rue de Cul-de-Sac). You’ll find more traditional restaurants and local shops nearby.

4. Go ice skating right by the old city walls

There’s nothing more festive and wintery than skating at an outdoor rink with a beautiful backdrop. In the Upper Town at Place D’Youville, you’ll find just that. Go skating during the day in the winter sun, or at night under the twinkling holiday lights. Make sure to reserve your one-hour slot online . Once you’re there, you can rent skates for 10 CAD.

5. Try traditional Québécois food

If you like sweets, you’ll love maple taffy (tire sur la neige), which is frozen maple syrup wrapped around a stick. They make the taffy right in front of you on beds of snow!

Another classic is maple sugar pie (tarte au sucre), but it’s unfortunately not vegan, though it is vegetarian. It’s kind of like a pecan pie without the pecans.

My personal favorite are maple cream cookies (surprisingly vegan!), which are two maple leaf-shaped cookies with maple cream sandwiched in-between.

For savory foods, poutine is probably the best-known dish. The fries drizzled with gravy and topped with cheese curds are sure to keep you warm and fill your stomach in the winter. I tried the vegan poutine at Le Chic Shack, and it wasn’t great, but there is also vegan poutine at Poutineville, so I’d recommend giving that a try instead.

6. Go snowshoeing or skiing

You can go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing right in the city at the Plains of Abraham (Plaines d’Abraham). Entry to the park is free, but if you need to rent equipment , go to the skaters’ chalet. If you’d rather just walk in the snow, that’s also a possibility.

For a change of scenery, you can go to Jacques Cartier National Park for your wintertime activities. The park is 30 minutes from the city and features beautiful snow-capped mountains and evergreen trees. If you need transportation and equipment, consider booking an all-inclusive tour for $70 , which is led by an experienced guide.

7. Visit the Montmorency Falls

Just 15 minutes from Québec City, the Montmorency Falls are even taller than Niagara Falls. In the surrounding park, you can go ziplining, go hiking, or do via ferrata. There’s a suspension bridge at the top of the falls, letting you see the power of the water up-close. You can also take a cable car ride . Entry to the park is a few dollars for parking, around $5 per adult.

To get to the park via public transport, take the 800 bus towards Beauport, and get off at Brideau. You will need to have cash if you want to buy the fare on the bus, or you can purchase tickets in advance at any point of sale in the city.

8. Experience the Winter Carnival

The Winter Carnival happens yearly in the first week of February. There are all kinds of activities, from axe throwing to tubing to music performances. Go to admire the ice castle, snow sculptures, and parades. Tickets cost 15 CAD during pre-sale and 25 CAD afterwards.

Where to Stay in Quebec City

If you’re looking to rent an apartment, check out these well-rated options:

• Condo in the Upper Town that sleeps up to 4 people
• Condo in Old Québec with parking that sleeps up to 6 people

For hotels, here are some popular options:

• Fancy: Fairmont le Château Frontenac (the famous castle-like hotel)
• Moderate:  L’Adresse sur Grande-Allée Lofts (modern lofts near the Plains of Abraham)
• Moderate/budget: Au Petit Hôtel (the cutest exterior, located in the Upper Town)
• Budget: Hôtel du Nord (a bit further beyond Old Québec)

What to Pack or Bring

It’s extremely cold and snowy in the winter in Québec City—January’s average temperatures are a high of 18°F (-8°C) and a low of 3 °F (-16°C).

You’ll basically need all your typical warm-weather things. Warm, waterproof boots are especially a must with the thick snow. I just used my hiking boots, which worked well enough, though they weren’t as tall as I would’ve liked.

If you’re coming from a different country, it’s helpful to have a travel credit card that waives foreign transaction fees. If you need cash, I recommend the Wise free borderless account. It allows you to hold 50+ currencies and withdraw the equivalent of 100 USD from ATMs for free each month. If you don’t have the local currency in your account, they’ll draw from the currency that’s the cheapest for you and use the real exchange rate.

Depending on your current cell service provider, you’ll also likely need a Canadian prepaid SIM card if you want to use mobile data.

After you go, let me know what you think of the city! If you’ve been, feel free to suggest anything I missed in the comments. If you’re also planning to stop by Montreal, check out my other itinerary .

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One of the things I really regret is not having visited Quebec City when I lived in Montreal. I really would have loved to see it, but just never got around to it, unfortunately. Hopefully, I’ll make my way back to North America at some point.

I think you’d love it! I hope you’ll get the chance to visit Quebec City one day (and see me too hehe).

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10 Unmissable Things To Do In Quebec City In Winter

(This article has affiliate links to products which we may make commission from at no extra cost to you.)

Looking forward to checking out all the amazing things to do in Quebec City in winter? Get set ready to explore in no time with this Quebec City winter guide.

If you are looking for an ideal getaway in the Quebec province, then it has to be the beautiful Quebec City. Given its location, the winters are something that you can look towards for visiting this place. It is one of the most wonderful places to visit in Canada in winter . There are decorated carnivals, adventure sports, Christmas markets and many unique winter activities that would make you feel like home here. The quaint snow capped buildings, charming alleys with cobblestone streets and an adoring castle overlooking the Saint Lawrence River makes the city look right out from a fairy tale.

Still wondering about things to do in Quebec City in winter, below is a small list to look at.

Things To Do In Quebec City In Winter

1. staycation in the ice hotel.

This is one of the coolest things to do in Quebec city in winter. Have you ever fantasized about the ice beds during chilly winters? If your answer is Yes then this place is going to be a paradise for you. Welcome to the Hôtel de Glace , the ice hotel in Quebec city that is only open to provide you the best services usually from January till April. It is like living in an igloo but with all the luxurious amenities that you can think of. First of all, you would be amazed by the architectural beauty of this hotel.

Made of around 15000 tons of ice, you would be left aghast by how strategically it has been designed. Don’t worry about the cold because a fireplace would be available to you near the ice bed for your comfort.

The arched ceiling makes sure to contain the warmth but the temperature would be regulated so that the ice won’t melt. You would love the different drinks that they offer you in the short sized ice glasses. There are 30 rooms apart from themed suites, the chapel, Grand Hall and a family area. Staying at the hotel is a one-of-a-kind experience, as it is the only ice hotel in the entire North America.

2. Attend The Winter Carnival

Welcome to the most celebrated carnivals in the world. If you are planning to visit Quebec City in winter, this is one event you need to look forward to. Winter Carnival is organized and celebrated every year. In 2024, it would be celebrated from February 2 to February 11. The Winter Carnival is also known as the Bonhomme Carnival by the residents. It has a mascot too, a giant smiling snowman.

If you are wondering where does the Mascot live? You are on your first destination to visit the Ice Palace which is full of fun and multiple things made of pure ice only. You can see the Bonhomme here and he would welcome you with icy arms.

If you are planning to visit with your family this is going to be a memorable moment for each one of you. While young ones can look forward to playing snowballs, the older ones can use their creativity by making giant ice sculptures and participating in Ice Canoe Race. Do taste the Caribou. It is a popular alcoholic beverage in Quebec city. While being a part of the winter carnival, don’t forget the Night Parade, which is the most fun and colorful part of the whole experience.

3. Indulge In Winter Activities At Bonhomme’s Playground

Now, when you have already been to his home and have been his guest, Bonhomme offers you to visit his playground. The ground gets covered with thick ice. Here, you will not only find the local residents who will be spending their winter afternoon but also find a plethora of tourists and travelers who participate in multiple winter sports.

Snow bowling, Ice tubing, Ice skating, Snowboarding and numerous other sports are somethings that you can participate and have fun in. There is a separate area if you are visiting the playground with your tiny tots. There are many slides and see-saws to play with. Fun does not stop for anyone here.

4. Keep Yourself Warm By Drinking Caribou

If rum and vodka are the only drinks that have been keeping you warm throughout the winter then get ready to give your taste buds a bit of refreshment on your visit to Quebec city. A drink exclusive to the place and something that you are going to love is Caribou.

Caribou is a boozy drink made of brandy, vodka, sherry and port to enjoy only in cold climate. It will help you in keeping yourself warm by all means. The legend says that it was made by the people who first settled in this area around 17 th  century. Undoubtedly, a recipe so old helps to cope with chilling winters here.

The drink is most often enjoyed during the Winter Carnival and also plays an important role in bringing the people together at night time. An open fire along with your favorite people sharing their stories and sipping on Caribou is the evening you can look forward to.

5. Taste The Frozen Maple Syrup At The Sugar Shack

What if you do not like alcohol? Is there nothing for you in Quebec City’s vicinity? That is not true at all. Quebec city has something for everyone in its magical alleys. Get ready to taste delightful tangy flavors in winter on your visit to the city. The Frozen Maple Syrup or Maple Taffy are the most sought-after local snack in Canada.

The making of the snack is as delicious as it tastes. Witness the hot and boiling maple syrup to slowly drop on freshly crusted ice and suddenly they both become one to give you a tasty adventure to slurp on. The best part is that it is all made of organic material and most often has honey as the main ingredient. So, you can enjoy it without any worry.

If you only want to slurp on the ice and don’t like the syrup, you can always range it from light to the intense flavors. The golden one has the lightest flavor to amber, dark, and finally very dark for the intense taste. Make your choice and enjoy.

6. Take The Aroma Spa During Winters

One thing that we gravely miss in icy cold winters and destinations is a hot bath. But Quebec City makes sure that you are offered the best facilities possible and has a plethora of spas where you can easily take hot spas and aroma therapies. These spas are not only closed but some are open spas where you can take a hot tub swim under the cloudy cold skies while sipping on Caribou.

A hot oil massage where the oils are infused with medicinal herbs and essence and then they leave you among incense sticks with the best aromas. They have also specialized in providing which aroma would be best suited to support your mind, body and soul. All your chakras would get aligned after this experience. It is one of our favorite things to do in Quebec City in winter.

Some of the noted spas in Quebec where you would find the best class services are Siberia Spa and Strom Spa . All you need to do is book your reservations at one of these spas and they will take care of the rest.

7. Get The Adrenaline Rush At The Red Bull Ice Cross

For the past 7 years, Red Bull has sponsored the downhill ice-skating challenge among the best of the best. Trained athletes participate in the race every year. Get ready to be astounded by what these participants bring to the rink. You can enjoy the thrilling show from the sidelines like all the other residents. Be aware that it is not easy to win this event as the participants have to cross multiple turns and jumps to complete the rounds.

Thousands of visitors witness the race and cheer from the sidelines. You would get an adrenaline rush by simply watching the different actions and performances that these athletes are capable of doing.

8. Enjoy Ice Skating At Place D’Youville

Red Bull Ice cross is for experts and enthusiasts but what if you want to ice skate just for the joy of it. Well, Quebec city has the perfect place for you. The place is called Place D’ Youville. As soon as the snowfall occurs and the ice settles, the rink becomes the perfect place for the ice skating activity with your buddies.

The place remains open throughout the winter months to let the visitors enjoy the fun of ice skating without any problems. However, ice skating at the magical time of Christmas and the winter carnival when the twinkling lights are lit and the air has a festive flavor to it is the perfect time to go for it. The rink opens from Mid-November to mid-March. There are temperature regulators to ensure that the ice remains ready for skating.

9. Do Some Winter Shopping At Petit de Champlain

When you are in one of the oldest places that still has its trace, you are bound to make memories there. The cobbled roads of the city and stoned houses on both sides along with the chime from the century old church are somethings that make you feel that you have landed in a fairytale.

Petit de Champlain is the square space of the city. The tasty smell from the freshly baked bread from the bakery, the aroma of the freshly brewed chocolate and coffee from the cafes along with music on the sidewalk makes for a perfect evening in the city. A walk in the square would make you want to go shopping and fetch some memorabilia on your way home from a place that you never want to leave.

10. Go For Ice-Fishing At Louise Basin Inner Harbor

When you are visiting the city next to the St. Lawrence River, how can you miss the experience of Ice Fishing? But when you are visiting Quebec city, ice fishing is not a regular thing to do here. The experience is a bit different.

Different how? Ice fishing here consists of living in an inflatable igloo and musical ambience along with the company of many other families to accompany you. It’s not like your regular routes where you just wait in the silence with your fishing rod dipped in the water. In Quebec City, it becomes more of a celebration and a communal activity. Who would want to miss that?

Where To Stay In Quebec City In Winter

As we have mentioned earlier, staying at Hôtel de Glace would be a wonderful and unique experience for you to enjoy in Quebec City in winter. If you are looking for more options, consider staying in the Old Quebec neighborhood. It holds an astounding European charm. We enjoyed our stay at the Le Priori Hotel . Located right in the heart of Old Quebec, this boutique hotel is a perfect choice for travelers during winter. Rooms are comfortable, spacious and all the necessary amenities. The rooms are also beautifully decorated and have a cozy fireplace.

Now that you know about all the awesome things to do in Quebec City in winter, we are sure you are going to have a great time here. If you would like to share more ideas and winter activities that you highly recommend in Quebec City, do let us know in the comment section below.

You May Also Like Reading

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• 2 Days In Quebec City : The Ultimate Quebec City Itinerary

cheerfultrails

Anjali Wadhwa (cheerfultrails) is a travel consultant and enthusiast who has traveled to 15+ countries. She shares about her explorations through her writings. You will find detailed itineraries, best travel tips and well experienced recommendations for food, transportation and hotels on her blog.

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10 unforgettable winter activities to enjoy in Quebec City (in 2024)

Walking through Quebec City in winter, it’s easy to forget you’re in Canada instead of the Europe of centuries past.

Great stone walls fortify the historical centre, the parliament building is modelled after the famous Louvre Museum in Paris , and the sound of French chatter floats above the cobblestone streets as church bells clang in the distance.

Perhaps it’s that allure that draws visitors in droves, who are charmed by the untouched centre (Vieux-Quebec), the speciality boutiques that line districts like Petit-Champlain, and the enchanting Chateau Frontenac which just so happens to be the most photographed hotel in the world.

No matter what time of the year one arrives there’s plenty to explore, but Quebec City is one of those places that actually comes alive during the cold season.

Here are 10 unforgettable winter activities to enjoy in Quebec City.

Hurtle down a toboggan slide

Easily one of the most unique Quebec City attractions, Quebec City boasts something you won’t find anywhere else: a toboggan slide right in the centre of town.

Au 1884 has sat on Dufferin Terrace since 1884—even longer than its neighbour the Chateau Frontenac has been around!

WATCH: Toboganning at Au 1884

Check out the Quebec City ice hotel

Visiting the Hotel de Glace in Quebec City is a must, as it’s one of only a handful of ice hotels in the entire world. Found 30 minutes outside the city at Village Vacances Valcartier , the impressive hotel is completely rebuilt every year with a different theme.

The massive structure boasts dozens of rooms, including suites featuring intricate ice carvings and cool neon lights that give the whole place a luxe vibe.

READ MORE:  A snowy stay at Hôtel de Glace, the Quebec City ice hotel

Since it’s a hotel, the best way to experience it is with an overnight stay. And yes, it’s downright freezing, but that’s what makes it memorable!

Staff conduct an orientation each night to fully explain what guests can expect and how to best ward off the chill, such as the proper way to secure the mummy sleeping bag so less skin is exposed, and why you don’t want to leave your glasses or iPhone on the ice block that doubles as a night stand. Click here to book

However, you don’t have to reserve a room to experience Hotel de Glace, since you can book a day tour that includes walking through each of the rooms, checking out the chapel (which conducts actual wedding ceremonies) and making a pit stop at the ice slide near the entrance. 

WATCH: The ice slide at Hotel de Glace

Celebrate the Quebec Winter Carnival

No winter trip is complete without celebrating the Quebec City  Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Quebec) .

The annual event features massive snow sculptures, family-friendly rides and activities, street parties and of course the world’s most famous seven-foot snowman, Bonhomme.

Most of the fun happens on the Plains of Abraham near the parliament building, where Bonhomme’s Ice Palace is front and centre.

Visitors can tour the palace (and hopefully get a meet and greet with the jolly fellow), then head into the fair grounds to hop on the ferris wheel, go dog sledding, enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride, make their own maple taffy, or even slide into a zorb to become a human bowling ball.

Events away from the grounds include a fun night parade, taking a snow bath, and a canoe race through the frozen ice chunks that float down the Saint Lawrence River. The Winter Carnival runs every year from the end of January to mid-February, and is considered one of the best things to do in Quebec City.

Eat sweet maple taffy

Sugary-sweet maple taffy is the quintessential Quebec treat, so don’t leave town without tracking some down. While eating it is obviously the end game, making your syrup lollipop is half the fun.

You can find maple taffy all around town, including at the Winter Carnival and at one of the many maple sugar shacks that pop up in March and April when sap begins to flow from the trees.

Explore historic Vieux-Quebec

Sure it’s chilly out, but that’s no excuse not to bundle up and hit the streets of Vieux-Quebec.

Boasting nearly five kilometres of fortifications, Quebec City is the only walled city in North America north of Mexico, and has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Petit-Champlain – One of the most picturesque spots in the city, this area has narrow, winding cobblestone streets and is considered the oldest commercial street in North America. This is where you’ll find restaurants, cafes and stores selling local favourites like syrup, ice wine and cozy toques (that’s a hat, for you non-Canadians). Don’t feel like tackling the stairs to get back up to Dufferin Terrace? Hop on the funicular, which takes about 30 seconds to get to the top.
• Place Royale – A gorgeous little plaza, framed by historic buildings including the towering Notre-Dame des Victories cathedral.
• Grand Allée – A trendy street near the parliament building with great bars, restaurants and nightlife. Don’t miss Ciel! in Hôtel Le Concorde Québec, which rotates around offering panoramic views of the city.
• Rue Saint-Jean – An area frequented by locals, the street is lined with boutiques, cafes and restaurants. It’s also home to quaint J.A. Moisan, which is the oldest grocery store on the continent.
• Rue Saint Joseph – On the outskirts of the city centre toward the harbour, this district boasts trendy shopping, including designer boutiques and department stores. As everyone knows, an afternoon spent ducking into shops is the perfect way to stay warm!

During the winter months, there are also adorable warming stations set up throughout the historic centre where you can gather around a fireplace.

Book a guided tour here:

Hit the slopes

Skiing is one of the most popular Quebec City getaways, with four different ski areas nearby including Le Relais Centre which is just a 15 minute drive from Vieux-Quebec.

Other notable resorts include Mont-Sainte-Anne which has three hills to choose from, and Stoneham Mountain Resort which holds bragging rights as Canada’s largest night skiing area.

Relax at a Scandinavian spa

There are some fantastic Quebec City spas which make for a relaxing escape in any season, and the nordic spas are especially enchanting in winter.

Check out Strøm Spa which is just five minutes from downtown and has a number of pools including a few overlooking the Saint Lawrence River. Click here to book

Sibéria Spa is based on the concept of thermotherapy where guests heat up in sweltering hot saunas and eucalyptus-infused steam rooms before plunging into frigid cold pools, a practice said to increase circulation, eliminate toxins and strengthen the immune system.

There are also numerous relaxation areas with wood-burning fireplaces, as well as a yurt and “igloo” complete with hammocks that are perfect for lounging in. 

Get active on the Plains of Abraham

One of the best ways to enjoy winter is to get out and play in the snow, and you don’t have to head out to a ski resort to get in on the action. Just outside the city walls, the Plains of Abraham is a popular place to cross-country ski, skate or snowshoe, and boasts several kilometres of trails.

Elm trees surround the historically significant area which is bordered by the gorgeous parliament building, and often hosts huge outdoor concerts. Don’t have equipment? No problem—rentals are available from a kiosk on site. There are also heated rest areas and a waxing room to get those skis in tip-top shape.

Need a change of scenery? There are several other skating rinks around the city, including Place D’Youville and the Louise Basin inner harbour.

Book one of these fun winter tours in Quebec City:

The Louise Basin inner harbour is also the site of another only-in-Quebec-City experience: ice fishing downtown! The harbour freezes over in the winter, and is transformed into an outdoor recreation area that includes activities like skating and ice fishing.

Igloos are set up on the ice to keep away the cold, or you can simply cast your rod in the middle of  Village Nordik . Lucky enough to catch a trout? Head over to the adjoining Le Marché du Vieux-Port, where you can get your fish prepared, along with a side of quinoa, wild rice, veggies or salad. Bon appetit!

Channel your inner child at a tube park

Finally, get back to the basics with the ultimate winter experience: hurtling down a toboggan hill without a care in the world. Villages Vacances Valcartier is North America’s largest winter playground, thanks to its numerous sled runs, skating paths and playground which entertain snow seekers of all ages.

READ MORE: Fun things to do at Village Vacances Valcartier near Quebec City

Daredevils head to Villages Vacances Valcartier to take turns whipping down the hill on inflatable snow rafts, some of which hold up to 12 people.

Reaching speeds of up to 80 km/h, riders speed down slopes like the so-called Himalaya while enjoying views of the surrounding Jacques-Cartier river valley, and the Tornado which features specially outfitted rafts that spin around as guests fly down the hill. 

Where to stay in Quebec City

• Fairmont Chateau Frontenac – Considered one of Canada’s most iconic hotels, you can’t beat the location, service or epic views. Click here to book
• Le Monastere des Augustines – It’s not often one gets to sleep in a monastery, but that’s exactly what you’ll get to do at this property in the heart of the old city. Experiences include eating breakfast in silence with the nuns, exploring the on-site museum and enjoying luxe spa experiences , and guests love how well-priced the contemporary rooms are. Click here to book
• Auberge Saint-Antoine – This boutique hotel near Petit Champlain gets rave reviews for its five-star service, beautiful, elegant rooms and fabulous dining options. Click here to book

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY:

• How to plan the perfect girls getaway in Montreal
• An adventurous afternoon at Quebec’s Canyon Sainte-Anne
• Adventure and adrenaline: A daredevil day in Laval, Quebec

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About The Author

Tamara Elliott

21 thoughts on “10 unforgettable winter activities to enjoy in quebec city (in 2024)”.

How did I miss the zorb human bowling ball? Now that’s a reason to go back. Gorgeous images! It looks like a fairytale city.

That was the best part! Well…other than hanging with Bonhomme, of course 🙂

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Thanks this really helped me with my french project in school about Quebec but now I have to re write this all in french and we can’t use google translate. Bat this is great information thanks again!

C’est vrai

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Thanks for sharing good blog post. I like your blog post. They are really helpful article.

Allo, We will like to be listed on your site. How can we do it? Also we will like to invite a member of your team for a bike tour in Québec city

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Embracing the Cold in Québec City's Winter Wonderland

This is a two-part story about winter travel in Quebec City and nearby Charlevoix county . 

QUÉBEC CITY – I’ve long believed that embracing the cold and snow outdoors is the best, most joyous way to get through a long winter. So I couldn’t resist a trip to the French-speaking province of Québec in eastern Canada to celebrate the season in historic Québec City and the beautiful Charlevoix region. My five days of wintry pleasures included the joie de vivre of Québec City’s famous Carnaval de Québec (Winter Carnival) and the adrenaline rush of a 4.6-mile sled ride at Le Massif de Charlevoix ski area just 90 minutes outside the city.

Combining these two areas gives a full taste of winter pastimes. With its deep French culture and well-preserved city center, Québec City looks even more romantic draped in snow. It’s a magical backdrop for viewing a festive night parade or an ice canoe race during Winter Carnival. A tour of the over-the-top Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) and snow tubing are easy excursions. Northeast of Québec City and encompassing the St. Lawrence River as well as towering peaks, Charlevoix is perfect for more winter adventures . It draws snow lovers with skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, ice-skating, and dogsledding; unspoiled national parks; and charming towns like artsy Baie Saint-Paul. Throughout the Québec region, hotels and restaurants offer warming comforts after the day’s activities.

Good winter clothing is essential in Québec, where a 30° Fahrenheit day can seem balmy. This is where to stay, find winter fun, and soak up the scenery in and around Québec City.

Lay of the Land

Set on Cap Diamant (Cape Diamond) with views of the St. Lawrence River, Québec City is known for Vieux-Québec, the old city, including part of the Upper Town and Lower Town. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s the only walled city in North America north of Mexico. French explorers and fur trappers established a fort at what is now Place Royale more than 400 years ago. The city walls, stone buildings, and historic fortifications draw visitors year-round for their French charm. In winter, the city provides a memorable setting for one of the world’s most famous winter festivals, the Carnaval de Québec. Ten days of exuberant activities and events bring people of all ages outdoors to enjoy themselves in the cold and snow. The city’s delightful bistros and bars, shops, and museums offer a break from the weather.

Carnaval de Québec All I needed to fall in love with the city’s annual Winter Carnival was the event’s roving ambassador and guiding spirit, Bonhomme Carnaval . The seven-foot-tall talking snowman, with his jaunty red cap and colorful sash, is a cheerful presence at events and at his 30-foot-high Ice Palace, colorfully illuminated at night, near the Parliament building. Carnival events, many family-friendly, run during the day and into the evenings for 10 days in February in different areas, including snow slides, ice-skating, and spirited activities such as ax throwing and street hockey. Virtual events on YouTube and ice sculptures around the city are available anytime. Music of all kinds keeps things lively, and there are carnival treats like maple taffy (warm maple syrup poured on snow, then rolled on a stick) and Caribou, a potent alcoholic drink made with red wine, liquor, and maple syrup.

Hand and toe warmers made watching the colorful, creative floats at one of the carnival’s music-filled night parades along the Grande Allée a wonderful evening despite the cold. (I’m reminded of the saying that there’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing.) It also helped that I ended the evening at Bulles, Whisky & Cie, a special whiskey-, spirit-, and cocktail-tasting event full of revelers warming up. One of my favorite daytime events was watching an energetic ice canoe race on the St. Lawrence at Bassin Louise. Teams of participants feverishly paddled their specially designed vessels through the river’s currents and ice floes. From above, I enjoyed the action along with Western-style snacks and country music.

Sold on-site for C$20, an Effigy , a token showing Bonhomme and a horn, allows access to many Winter Carnival sites and activities. It comes with a booklet of discounts.

City Explorations After the ice canoe race, I explored the Lower Town of Vieux-Québec, including Place Royale and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires , a lovely stone church built in 1688. In this area, Rue du Petit-Champlain and the quaint surrounding streets entice with shops and boutiques selling local and regional goods. Also nearby is the excellent Musée de la Civilisation , where interactive exhibits explore stories of the area’s Aboriginal nations and the province’s history.

A beloved winter tradition dating to 1884 is Au 1884 , the speedy, rattling, wooden toboggan on scenic Dufferin Terrace that provides a view including the city’s landmark Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel. Another vintage ride is the funicular between Upper and Lower Towns.

Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) An utterly unique experience, North America’s only ice hotel is an irresistible, glistening winter creation just 20 minutes from Québec City at the Village Vacances Valcartier resort. People can overnight here, bundling up in special sleeping bags on a base of ice in the hotel’s rooms, some of which have intricate, themed snow and ice carvings of everything from animals to abstract shapes. I passed on an overnight but took a tour to learn how 30,000 tons of snow and 500 tons of ice are used to build the hotel each year. I also admired the detailed creations of eighteen sculptors, the chapel — people actually get married here, easily one-upping a Vegas chapel — and the bar. A drink in a glass made of ice is de rigueur and Insta-worthy. It’s best to book a tour ahead; the Ice Hotel is popular.

A short walk from the Ice Hotel are fun snow tubing and rafting runs: Himalaya (which I did) and Everest are steeper slopes, where participants reach a speed close to 50 mph.

Where to Stay

Québec City has some boutique hotels with traditional charm or modern chic, such as Auberge Saint-Antoine and the Hôtel Le Germain Québec . In contrast, staying at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is an experience on a grand scale. Travelers to Winter Carnival should make any hotel reservations in advance.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Perched high on Cap Diamant and resembling an oversize château with a tall central tower, the 1893 hotel is a much-photographed, history-rich landmark and city hub. Its 610 rooms and 7.5 miles of corridors make the Frontenac anything but intimate, but the hotel has kept pace with the times: A $75 million renovation in 2014 added a spa; brought soothing neutral, luxurious modern furnishings to the guest rooms; and revamped the hotel’s excellent restaurants and public spaces such as its paneled lobby. Rooms range from small to vast and have different views. My expansive room in a turret had views over the St. Lawrence that kept me glued to the window.

Where to Eat & Drink

Ciel! Bistro-Bar Floor-to-ceiling windows keep diners’ attention on the panoramic city and river views at this revolving restaurant on the 28th floor of Le Concorde Québec on Grande Allée. White tablecloths and simple but elegant decor provide a backdrop for the views. Weekend brunch and dinner menus offer hearty but updated Québec fare made from local produce and regional cheeses. Ciel! is perfect for a cocktail, perhaps with a Québec-made spirit, and lingering for the 90 minutes it takes for the restaurant’s full revolution.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Bistro Le Sam is a buzzy, casual space with design features that pick up elements of trains — the Frontenac was originally a railroad hotel — like studs on tables and chairs shaped like the front of an old locomotive. Cheese and charcuterie boards are a great bet, and there are ample fish and meat choices. I didn’t eat dinner at Champlain Restaurant , but this space helmed by acclaimed chef Stéphane Modat is known for its adventurous exploration of Québec’s culinary possibilities. Brunch here was a grand, traditional feast, with everything from smoked salmon to sweet crepes to beef Wellington. The bar 1608 is a chic, dark space for unwinding by the fireplace or sipping a creative cocktail, wine, or local beer.

Restaurant Le Continental Open since 1956, the Continental specializes in classic French dishes, many prepared tableside in gleaming copper pots. The ambience and approach — they do impressive flambéing — may be old-fashioned, but the results are solidly delicious, including the rich lobster bisque, tender filet mignon in cognac sauce, and shrimps flambéed in whiskey. A feast here can be an excellent way to end an active day outdoors.

Plan Your Trip

How to Get There Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB), about nine miles from downtown, has direct international flights from a number of U.S. cities and many connecting flights from Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) and Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL). Taxis to downtown Québec City (flat rate of C$35.10) leave from near the baggage claim; Uber is another option.

Québec City is an 8 1/2 hour drive north of New York City via I-87 and Autoroute 20.

Getting Around Activities at Québec City’s Winter Carnival are close enough that visitors can walk or take a bus, taxi, or Uber. A car would be inconvenient in the heart of town, and it’s best to explore Vieux-Québec on foot. The Ice Hotel at Village Vacances Valcartier is a 20-minute drive from Québec City. Bus 384 and 584 go to the other end of Boulevard Valcartier; an Uber is needed to finish the trip. Going with Tours du Vieux-Québec is another option.

A car is needed for winter travel around the coastal Charlevoix region, which begins about 90 minutes northeast of Québec City. Roads are well cleared of snow, from the faster Route 138 to the scenic coast Route 362.

The scenic summer tourist Train de Charlevoix runs from Québec City (Montmorency Falls) to Baie-Saint-Paul and La Malbaie.

What to Pack for Winter Winter is serious in Québec City, where average winter temperatures from December through February range from lows in the single digits to highs of 25° Fahrenheit without the wind. A 30° day will feel warm. Good clothing ensures being comfortable for outdoor adventures, though.

Any packing list should include a winter jacket, snow pants (essential), sweaters or fleeces (dress in layers), and warm, waterproof winter boots. A scarf, hat, gloves and mittens, and wool socks are good, and toe and hand warmers are a useful addition. Sunscreen and sunglasses are handy. Finally, pack a bathing suit and flip-flops for indoor pools, spas, and yes, heated outdoor pools.

Keep the winter spirit alive: Linda's adventures continue in nearby Charlevoix county .

We make every effort to ensure the information in our articles is accurate at the time of publication. But the world moves fast, and even we double-check important details before hitting the road.

19 Fun Things to Do in Quebec City in the Winter (2024)

Discover the best things to do in Quebec City in the winter!

Quebec City is a fairy-tale destination any time of the year. The cobblestone streets, stunning architecture and quaint cafés make it hard to believe you’re not in Europe.

But in the winter months, Quebec City is even more magical, with snow-covered buildings, outdoor ice rinks and a uniquely Canadian winter experience. 

From experiencing the Winter Carnival to ice skating on the Plains of Abraham or tobogganing down the hill at Dufferin Terrace, here are the best things to do in Quebec City in the winter.

19 Things to Do in Quebec City in the Winter

Even though it’s chilly, there are plenty of fun winter activities in Quebec City. Just be sure to bundle up!

1. Stroll Through Old Quebec

There’s no better way to explore Quebec City any time of the year than by strolling through its historic streets.

The stunning architecture and cobblestone alleys make it look like a European city, and in the winter, with snow-covered rooftops and buildings draped in icicles, it’s even more magical.

Take some time to wander around and explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you’re sure to stumble across a charming little shop or café to warm up in.

2. Visit the Christmas Markets 

If you visit Quebec City in December, the Quebec City German Christmas Market is a great way to kick off the winter season and get you in the festive spirit. 

The Christmas Market is open from late November until December 23rd, and while that’s technically not winter yet, the weather is chilly and there’s usually snow on the ground, so it counts as winter for me! 

Quebec City has one of the best Christmas Markets in Canada , with different markets spread throughout the Old Town and plenty of festive events to enjoy.

Wander past the vendor stalls and pick up some unique presents, fun souvenirs or delicious treats.

There are traditional German Christmas treats like gingerbread, glüwhein and bratwurst, as well as local Quebec products from maple syrup to locally-made jams.

Whether you come for the festive atmosphere, the unique gifts or the delicious food, there are plenty of reasons to visit the Quebec City Christmas Market .

3. Experience Quebec Winter Carnival 

The Quebec City Winter Carnival, or Carnaval de Québec as it’s known in French, is one of the city’s most popular winter attractions. The annual event takes place for two weeks in February and celebrates all things winter, with ice sculptures and plenty of fun activities for the whole family. 

And of course, there’s the famous Bonhomme, a 7-foot snowman who is the mascot of the carnival. He can be seen all around town during this time, or you can visit his Ice Palace, which is in front of the Parliament Buildings of Quebec. 

Carnaval also features colourful night parades, horse-drawn sleigh rides, chances to make your own maple taffy and canoe races through the ice-strewn St. Lawrence River. 

The Winter Carnival is a unique experience and definitely one of the best things to do in Quebec in the winter. 

This year, Quebec’s Winter Carnival is held from January 25 – February 11, 2024 .

4. Explore the Ice Hotel 

Located just outside of Quebec City, the Hôtel de Glace is a unique and truly memorable experience. It’s one of the few ice hotels in the world , and the only one in North America. 

The hotel is made entirely out of ice and snow, and each year it’s redesigned and reconstructed with new sculptures, designs and activities. The walls are made of ice blocks that have been sculpted into various shapes, and the rooms feature beds and end tables made of ice.

Tours are available where you can walk through the rooms, check out the chapel or stop for a drink at the ice bar, where of course, you’ll have your drink served in a glass made of ice! 

For the adventurous, it’s possible to stay the night, although staying overnight is not recommended for young kids.

The Hôtel de Glace is open from early January until mid-March. 

5. Ride Down Dufferin Slide 

Another unique and fun attraction can be found right in the heart of Old Quebec City.

Located on the Dufferin Terrace is the Au 1884 slide , an iconic toboggan run that has been a part of Quebec City winters for over a century.  

Ride down on a long wooden toboggan and feel like a kid again! 

Groups of up to 4 can ride down on the toboggan, making it a great activity for families. 

The slide is open every day from mid-December to mid-March, weather permitting. 

Tickets are purchased per person, although up to four people can ride on the toboggan. Combo packages are also available, which include maple taffy and hot chocolate.

6. Go Ice Skating at Place D’Youville  

If you’re looking for something a little more traditional, head to Place D’Youville in downtown Quebec City for some outdoor ice skating.

During the winter months, the public square on Rue Saint-Jean is converted into a large ice rink where you can skate laps and admire the views of Old Quebec.

It’s a great way to get outdoors and enjoy one of Canada’s classic winter activities!

The rink opens when the Christmas Markets begin in late November and stays open until mid-March, weather depending.

Skating at Place D’Youville is free , and you can bring your skates or rent a pair there for a small fee. 

7. Ice Skating on the Plains of Abraham 

The Plains of Abraham is another great spot to go ice skating outdoors in Quebec City.

Located just outside the old city walls, it’s one of the flattest skating areas in the region and offers great views of both Old Quebec and the St. Lawrence River.

The ice is well maintained, and there are plenty of spots to rest and take a break. There’s a snack bar on-site and skate rentals are available as well.

Skating is free but there is a charge to rent skates. 

This ice skating rink is open from mid-December to March, weather depending.

8. Go Snow Tubing 

Just a short drive outside the city, you’ll find Village Vacances Valcartier , which is the place to go snow tubing in Quebec.  In addition to the Ice Hotel, mentioned above, Valcartier is also home to the largest winter playground in North America. 

Hop on a large inner tube and ride down the hill at this fantastic winter play area. There’s a few different snow slides, ranging from moderate to extreme, as well as snow rafting and skating.

At night, glide along the kilometre-long illuminated skating path or skate the day away while listening to music.

9. Hit the Slopes at Mont-Sainte-Anne

Located about 45 minutes from downtown, Mont-Sainte-Anne is one of the best ski resorts near Quebec City and a great place to get out on the slopes. 

With slopes of all difficulty levels, it’s a great spot for skiers of all abilities. There’s a ski school for those just starting out, and mogul slopes and difficult runs for more advanced skiers. 

You can also go snowboarding, as well as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.  Equipment can be rented onsite. 

Other nearby slopes to go skiing include Stoneham Mountain Resort , Le Massif and Le Relais , the latter of which is the smallest, but also the closest to Quebec City and only a 15-minute drive away. 

10. Ride the Funicular 

Summer or winter, taking a ride on the funicular is one of the best things to do in Quebec City , especially if you’re travelling with kids.

The funicular takes you up the steep incline from the Lower Town to Dufferin Terrace in the Upper Town. In addition to saving your legs from walking up the steps found throughout the city, the funicular offers great views of the city and the St.Lawrence River along the way.

It’s a quick 3 minute ride and one that you won’t forget!

11. Explore Quartier Petit Champlain

No matter the season, Quartier Petit Champlain is one of Quebec City’s most charming districts.

Located in the Lower Town, Petit-Champlain is the oldest shopping street in Quebec City.  In the winter, it’s especially beautiful when the buildings are covered in a blanket of snow. 

Stroll through the cobblestone streets, explore the boutiques filled with local arts and crafts, and stop for a snack at one of the many cafes and restaurants.

It’s hard not to feel like you’re in Europe here!

12. Experience Village Nordik

For one of the most unique things to do in Quebec City in the winter, why not try your hand at ice fishing?

Village Nordik in the Port of Quebec has inflatable igloos where you can stay warm while ice fishing.

There’s also music, family play areas and other activities  to keep you entertained. It’s a great way to experience the winter and get a taste of traditional Quebec culture.

Village Nordik runs from February 2 to March 10, 2024 .

13. Ride the Ferry to Lévis

For a great view of Quebec City, hop on the ferry from Old Quebec to Lévis.

The 12-minute ride takes you across the Saint Lawrence River for great views of the city skyline and river ice.

It’s especially spectacular after dark when the city lights up! It will be chilly but it’s worth it for the view!  

14. See a Hockey Game 

Watching a hockey game is a classic Canadian thing to do, and while there’s no longer an NHL team in Quebec City, you can still catch a hockey game while visiting the city.

The Remparts de Québec play in the Québec Major Junior Hockey League and are the hometown team.  Check their schedule and cheer on the Remparts at the Videotron Centre! 

15. Visit Montmorency Falls

When visiting Quebec City, be sure to make a trip to nearby Montmorency Falls. These impressive falls are actually higher than the world-famous Niagara Falls! 

While visiting waterfalls is usually considered a summer thing to do, they’re also worth a visit in the winter when the snow and ice add to the magic of the falls.

Just be sure to bundle up! 

Montmorency Falls is only 15 minutes from Quebec City. There’s plenty of parking at the base of the falls. Public transportation is available, or you take a tour from Quebec City . 

Interested in trying something uniuqe?  Head to Jacques-Cartier National Park for a ski-shoeing hike! A mix between cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, it’s sure to be unforgettable adventure!  *Not recommended for children under the age of 14.  For more information or to book your ticket, check out the tour here .

Things to Do in Quebec City in the Winter: Food and Drink

While in Québec City, be sure to try some unique Québécois treats, some, like Maple Taffy, that you can only find in the winter months.

16. Indulge in Maple Taffy

Sweet and absolutely delicious, maple taffy is something you need to try when you’re in Quebec.

Made by pouring hot maple syrup on fresh snow , then dipping a popsicle stick in and rolling it up, maple taffy is an iconic Canadian winter treat.

Maple taffy can be found in many shops and stores throughout Old Quebec, and it’s a popular treat at the Winter Carnival.  

17. Drink Chocolat Chaud 

No winter visit to Quebec City is complete without a cup of hot chocolate.

Chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) is a classic Québecois winter beverage and is often made with real chocolate or cocoa instead of powder. 

Sip a cup of hot chocolate at one of the many cafes in Old Quebec to warm up after a day of winter activities.

18. Try Poutine 

No list of things to do in Quebec City would be complete without mentioning poutine. This quintessential Canadian dish consists of french fries topped with warm gravy and cheese curds . It’s oh so good, and a perfect comfort food for cold winter days. 

You can find poutine all throughout the city, from pubs to restaurants to fast food joints. The best poutine is said to be at Le Chic Shack , but unfortunately, it’s not gluten-free.

For those needing a GF option, try the poutine at Bistro Le Veravin .

Either way, don’t miss out on trying this iconic Canadian dish while you’re in Quebec City!

19. Taste Traditional Tourtiere 

And of course, you can’t visit Quebec without trying tourtière. A traditional French Canadian food, this meat pie is made with minced meat and spices , although you may find some versions with cubes of wild game.  

Tourtière is a popular dish throughout Quebec during the holiday season but can also be found year-round in many restaurants. Served warm, it’s the perfect comfort to eat on a cold day. 

Where to Stay In Quebec City in the Winter

Old Québec has plenty of amazing accommodation options but there are also lots of accommodations outside of the city walls. 

Staying in Old Quebec means you will be able to walk to most places, however, you will need transportation for some of the things we’ve listed above that are outside the area. We recommend staying in Old Quebec, as you’ll be able to walk to most places. For more details on some of these hotels, check out the best hotels near Quebec Christmas Markets for families. 

Chateau Frontenac 

Chateau Frontenac is the most famous hotel in Quebec City and the most photographed hotel in the world. Located at the top of a hill, it offers spectacular views of the city and river below. The castle-like property has been around for almost 130 years, making it a true icon of Old Quebec. 

Set in the heart of Old Quebec, Chateau Frontenac has a luxurious vibe and is a magical place to stay. It’s a great option for families, where kids under 18 stay for free, along with discounted meals for kids, babysitting services, and milk and cookies offered to kids at bedtime. 

👉 Check for rates and availability on Booking.com | Hotels.com | Expedia

Hôtel Palace Royale 

The Hôtel Palace Royale is a beautiful 4-star hotel nestled in the heart of Old Quebec. It’s located close to all the main Quebec City attractions, restaurants and shops in the city. 

Hôtel Palace Royale offers standard rooms or suites, some with a private living area which is great when travelling with young kids. There’s also an indoor pool and garden, and parking is conveniently located underground. 

Hôtel Best Western PLUS Centre-Ville

For more of a budget option, Hôtel Best Western PLUS Centre-Ville is a good choice. Just outside the city walls, but still within walking distance of Old Quebec, it offers a great price for the quality. Rooms are clean and spacious, with a mini-fridge and coffee maker. There’s an indoor pool and parking is available onsite for an additional fee. 

Quebec City Winter Travel Tips

Temperature .

How cold is Quebec City in the winter? Winter in Quebec City is typically quite cold, especially for those not used to Canadian winters.

Temperatures are usually below freezing and can drop as low as -30°C (-22°F) in the winter months with highs around -6°C (22°F).

January and February are the coldest months, while December will see snow but temperatures won’t be as cold.

March is when temperatures start to rise and by mid-month, many winter activities in Quebec City will end. 

Average temperatures:  

• December -3°C/ -10°C (26°F/14°F)
• January -6°C/-13°C (20°F/6°F)
• February -4°C/-13°C (24°F/8°F)
• March 0°C/-8°C (33°F/18°F)

What to Pack 

 When visiting Quebec City in the winter, it’s important to dress for the weather.

Pack warm clothing such as a warm winter jacket , gloves or mitts , a warm hat (or toque as we call it in Canada), a scarf and snow pants if you’re planning on doing outdoor activities such as sledding or tubing. 

Layers are key to keep you warm in the cold temperatures. These base layers from Decathlon are great for kids. For the upper body, consider a wool or silk base layer, fleece mid layer and a warm winter jacket over top. 

For your feet, wool socks are a good idea, as well as warm snow boots. 

And don’t forget about lip chap! Cold winter weather means it will also be dry, so be sure to take care of your lips and also moisturize anything that’s exposed to the cold. 

Canada is a bilingual country and you can expect to hear French spoken throughout Quebec, so it’s helpful to know some basic French when visiting.

Many people will also speak English, especially at hotels and tourist attractions, but expect to hear French the most.

Even if you don’t speak French, many locals will appreciate you trying and will try their best to understand you as well. 

Attempting a few French words, such as please (“ s’il vous plaît “), thank you (“ merci “), Do you speak English (“ parlez-vous anglais “), will go a long way. 

The currency used in Quebec City is the Canadian dollar (CAD). 

Credit cards and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, although you may find only cash is accepted at the Christmas Markets. 

ATMs can be found throughout the city and there are plenty of banks where you can exchange foreign currencies. 

If you plan on driving, whether your own car or a rental, it’s always important to be aware of road conditions.

Winter weather means different driving conditions and it’s a good idea to be prepared for any sort of weather.

Winter tires are mandatory from December to March (if your vehicle is registered in Quebec) and different parking regulations are in effect for the winter months (to ensure easier snow removal). 

Canadian cell phone plans are not cheap and you may find that roaming charges or data plans are not cost-efficient.

Although we don’t need to worry about a SIM card in Quebec (as we’re one of the ones with the pricey Canadian cell phone plans), we do use Airalo eSIM cards when we travel, and they are a great option when visiting Canada.

Check here to learn more about eSIMs and see if your phone is compatible . 

How to Get to Quebec City 

Quebec City can be reached by car, bus, train and plane. 

Car: Quebec City is about 2.5 hours away from Montreal and 8 hours from Toronto. 

Bus: There are regional buses to Quebec City from most of the major cities in Canada.

Train: Quebec City is served by VIA Rail Canada, with daily services from Montreal and Toronto. 

Plane: Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) is the main airport serving Quebec City and the surrounding area. 

Final Thoughts: Top Things to Do in Quebec City in Winter

We’ve visited Quebec City several times, both in the fall and winter, and have to say that it’s a great place to visit anytime of the year. 

In fact, visiting Quebec City in the winter can be a unique and wonderful experience. Whether you’re visiting in December to experience the Christmas Markets or in February to take part in the Winter Carnaval, there’s plenty of things to do in Quebec City in the winter. 

From skiing and snowshoeing to ice skating, winter festivals and more, Quebec City is a great place to explore in the winter.  Be sure to dress warm and enjoy!

For more ideas and inspiration on visiting Quebec and travel in Canada, be sure to check out these posts:

• 21 Fun Things to Do in Quebec City with Kids
• 9 Reasons to Visit the Quebec City Christmas Market
• Best Hotels Near Quebec City Christmas Market
• An Eastern Canada Road Trip: Toronto to Halifax, Nova Scotia

Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.

Embrace the Magic: 28 unforgettable winter activities in Quebec City

Quebec City transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months, offering a unique blend of festive charm, active adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking exhilarating outdoor activities, festive carnivals or cosy escapes, this historic city has something for everyone. Bundle up and get ready to embrace these 28 unforgettable things to do in Quebec City in winter.

28 unforgettable things to do in Quebec City in winter

In many ways, the Canadian province of Quebec in winter and the winter activities in Quebec City are like nowhere else. Few places in the world embrace the colder months of the year quite like our French-speaking neighbours! It’s easy to drive from eastern Canada or the United States to Quebec City. Or hop on a flight from Vancouver, New York City or Paris to arrive at Quebec City’s Jean Lesage International Airport.

Take a walking tour

One of the best ways to learn about the city’s rich history is to take a guided walking tour. Listen to captivating stories from knowledgeable guides and gain a deeper appreciation for Quebec City’s unique culture and architecture during the winter months.

Visit the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

Step into the grandeur of the iconic Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac , a luxurious hotel steeped in history. Rising up from a clifftop, the iconic Château Frontenac has been the crown jewel of the Old City for over 125 years now. Getting your picture taken in front of it is obviously a must – this is the world’s most photographed hotel, after all!

Head inside to get a better look at the Château’s remarkable architectural style. Explore its opulent lobby, admire the breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and valley, and indulge in a decadent afternoon tea.

Use the map below to search for hotel and short-term rental options

Go tobogganing at Au 1884

One of the oldest toboggan slides in North America is in Old Quebec City. For just $4 for four people, walk your red-cushioned sled up to the top of Au 1884 on Dufferin Terrace. Then prepare for a thrilling slide down the toboggan slide at up to 70 km/45 miles an hour. This is one of the most fun Quebec City winter activities you can do!

Immerse yourself in Festi Lumiere

Witness the dazzling spectacle of Festi Lumiere. This light festival, hosted by the Quebec Aquarium, uses more than 500,000 lights to create a magical display through trees and ice sculptures. Walk along an outdoor path through a beautifully lighted Enchanted Forest, and enjoy outdoor fire pits, music and more.

Sleep overnight at the Ice Hotel

If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping in an ice hotel, Quebec City’s Hôtel de Glace is the place to try. This unique ice hotel attraction is built from scratch each winter, made entirely from ice and snow.

There are 33 rooms, including 20 fun, themed rooms with ice carvings from artisans from around the world. There’s also a large lobby, ice bar with DJ booth, ice slide and even a wedding chapel. This is really one of the most unique things to do in winter in Quebec City.

Every overnight booking at the ice hotel includes an indoor, heated room at the hotel next door. Just in case. And there’s an amazing snow tube area at the Villages of Val Cartier right next door.

Celebrate the Quebec Winter Carnival

Quebec City celebrates winter like nowhere else. The Quebec City Winter Carnival, which turned 70 in 2024, is the world’s largest annual winter festival. The week-long celebration in Quebec City in February includes festive night parades, family-friendly activities, free entertainment, snow sculpting competitions, culinary events and ice canoe racing.

Don’t miss saying Bonjour to the iconic Carnival mascot, Bonhomme Carnaval, and visiting his Ice Palace on the grounds of the Quebec National Assembly parliament building.

Discover Petit-Champlain

Wander one of Canada’s prettiest pedestrian streets in Old Quebec. Petit-Champlain is simply gorgeous, and winter adds a fairyland sparkle with the lights on the snow. Wander into one-of-a-kind boutiques and meet some of Québec City’s artists and artisans. Rue Saint-Jean is another lovely street for wandering and shopping.

Go ice skating

Lacing up a pair of ice skates and hitting the ice? It’s about as Perfect Winter as it gets.

In the heart of Quebec City, you can rent skates (or bring your own) for turns on the lovely, refrigerated Place D’Youville skating rink. Glide across the rink near Quebec City’s historic ramparts, part of its ancient fortification walls, the only ones north of Mexico.

Outside of town: Skate at Lac-Beauport, a 3-kilometre rink on a frozen lake located near Le Relais resort. Or try the 1 km ice skating trail at Village Vacances Valcartier, the largest winter playground in North America.

Try ice canoeing

Quebec is the only place in the world where you can easily try the sport of ice canoeing. Sign on to a half day of energetic rowing and ‘scootering’ your way across moving blocks of ice in the St. Lawrence River.

Canot à Glace offers exhilarating ice canoe experiences in the city’s Old Port. Navigating the canoe across ice floes as you move 6 km an hour down (or up) stream on the tidal river is truly incredible.

If you’re in town during the annual Carnaval de Quebec, try to catch the professional ice canoe races on the first Sunday of the Carnival. It’s a thrilling competition.

Relax at a spa

Rejuvenate your mind and body with a spa day at one of Quebec City’s renowned spas. Strøm Spa is just 10 minutes from downtown but a world away in terms of therapeutic Nordic hot tubs and baths, pampering treatments, and a serene atmosphere overlooking the ever-changing St. Lawrence River. Reserve lunch or pop in for an afternoon snack at the Spa’s excellent café restaurant.

Tip: Book the spa after your ice canoeing adventure. You can thank me later.

Ride the Funiculaire

Take a funicular ride up the cliffside from lower Old Quebec to the upper town at Chateau Frontenac. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the St. Lawrence River. This iconic experience offers a memorable perspective of Quebec City in winter.

Note: You’ll need $5 in cash to pay for the funicular. No credit cards are accepted.

Walk the Dufferin Terrace

Enjoy a scenic stroll along the Dufferin Terrace, a boardwalk overlooking the majestic river. During winter, this popular spot transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with ice sculptures and festive decorations.

Explore Old Quebec City

Immerse yourself in the European ambiance of Old Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along cobblestone streets adorned with festive lighted decorations, marvel at the majestic Chateau Frontenac, and discover charming boutiques and cafes.

Try ice climbing

Test your strength ice climbing at Montmorency Falls Park, just outside of town. The frozen face of the waterfall can reach up to 83 metres high. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll love the view on the pain de sucre, or “sugar loaf,” that forms in winter at the bottom of the falls. Never ice climbed before? Sign up for lessons at the climbing school.

Savor local culinary delights

Indulge in Quebec’s rich culinary scene with warm and comforting winter dishes. Sample a traditional poutine, savor a hearty maple syrup pie or maple taffy on snow, or sip on a mug of hot caribou, a mix of red wine, brandy, maple syrup and spices. It’s a local favorite.

Explore Museums and Galleries

Escape the cold and delve into Quebec City’s cultural offerings.

Visit the Musée de la civilisation to learn about the province’s history and heritage, or explore the revolving art exhibitions of the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ), located in a beautiful modern building.

Do plan a lunch at the MNBAQ’s excellent cafe restaurant, or just enjoy a coffee or glass of wine after exploring the museum.

Explore Place Royale

Place Royale is the spot where, in 1608, Samuel de Champlain built what became the first permanent French settlement in North America, founding Quebec City. The cobblestone streets and European charm of the historic buildings are set off by the lovely Notre-Dame-des Victoires Church, one of the the city’s oldest attractions and stone churches.

Take a Ferry Ride

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the St. Lawrence River for stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding landscape. The unique aquatic perspective offers a different way to appreciate Quebec City’s winter beauty.

Go skiing or snowboarding

Hit the slopes at nearby Mont Sainte-Anne or Le Massif de Charlevoix for exhilarating downhill and cross-country skiing and snowboarding adventures. These world-class ski resorts about an hour’s drive from Quebec City offer great mountain and river views, diverse terrain, and activities for all skill levels. Le Massif has the longest vertical in Eastern Canada and is home to North America’s only Club Med ski resort.

Discover the Christmas Markets

Immerse yourself in the festive holiday spirit! Explore the charming European-style German Christmas Market held in the magical setting of Old Quebec. The Market is one of the best things to do in Quebec City during December.

Browse the wooden kiosks in the lower town for unique handicrafts, indulge in delicious treats, and soak up the magical atmosphere of the holiday season.

Participate in the pentathlon des neiges (Snow Pentathlon)

Feeling up to the challenge? Assemble a group of friends or family members to participate in the world’s largest winter multi-sport event that takes place every February. Or if you’re really adventurous, attempt all the events yourself!

Visit the Citadelle de Québec

Military historians will enjoy touring the Citadelle, Britain’s biggest fortress in North America. It’s been home base for the Royal 22e Régiment since 1920. See and hear the cannon that’s fired each day at noon. Tour the fortress for a behind-the-scenes look at Québec City’s defenses.

Visit the Plains of Abraham

The Battle of 1759 between French and British forces determined the fate of Quebec and Canada. The former battlefield on the Plains of Abraham is home to several monuments, two Martello towers and the Plains of Abraham Museum. Learn about the circumstances and history of the famous battle of the Plains of Abraham.

Try ice fishing at Village Nordik at the Old Port

Experience a unique family experience, ice fishing in the Louise Basin in the heart of the downtown Quebec. The Village Nordik at the Port of Quebec is a great place to try ice fishing on the frozen pool of ice in an urban setting.

Go to Igloofest Québec

Fans of electronic music and visual art will want to be in the city for when Igloofest comes to town in late winter. The event takes place in March at Place Jean-Béliveau, featuring EDM acts from Canada and around the world.

Experience Onhwa’ Lumina

Onhwa’ Lumina is the only immersive multimedia experience of its kind to be open in winter in Québec. It’s produced in collaboration with the internationally renowned Québec firm Moment Factory . Follow the 1.2 km trail into a magical world combining nature, technology and the rich storytelling history of the Huron-Wendat First Nation.

Try snowshoeing at Jacques-Cartier National Park

Snowshoeing is a fantastic winter activity, keeping you active and warm walking throught a beautiful forest landscape. This vast river valley is an ideal place for a day of snowshoeing. You can stay overnight at at one of the park yurts, tents or huts. Or take advantage of the shuttle service that runs there every day from Old Québec.

Go fat biking

With over 100 km of machine-groomed fat bike trails, the Québec City area is a fat biking paradise.

Fat bikes are a subgenre of mountain bikes that come with bulbous tires, usually between 4 and 5 inches wide. This type of tire allows for a combination of a wider contact patch, massive air volume and low air pressure, which gives great traction on surfaces like snow and sand.

Quebec City Fat Biking Trails

Fat bike in Old Quebec – Bike in the heart of the Old City in the company of a guide, and on a flat course with Tuque & bicycle experiences. This company also offers to rent a fat bike by the hour, in order to experience it in complete freedom.

Domaine Maizerets – A large recreational park with a small network of accessible fat biking trails on an historic estate property.

Empire 47 – With about 40 km (25 miles) of undulating, machine groomed trails for all levels, Empire 47 is a fat biking paradise. The amenities and the comprehensive fleet of rental bikes can accommodate groups of almost any size.

Sentiers du Moulin – This trail network is a challenging one and offers a unique “Enduro” twist: a winter version of the popular SuperG mountain bike trail. Just shy of 30 km (20 miles), the trails are suited to intermediate and advanced riders.

Mont-Sainte-Anne – Set in a true winter wonderland, this world-class alpine and cross-country ski resort is also a great fat biking destination. Spanning almost 7 km (4 miles), the trail network is maintained all winter long. The trailhead is located next to the cross-country ski centre, about 7 km (4 miles) away from the chairlift.

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Photo credit: Claudia Laroye, Destination Quebec City, Bonjour Quebec

Disclosure: The writer thanks Destination Quebec City for hosting her stay in the city. As always, her love of maple syrup and historic places is honest and her own.

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Amazing winter activities to do in Quebec City

Last year, I wrote a blog post about ice fishing in Quebec City and let me tell you, it turned out to be one of my most popular posts EVER! I was surprised to see how much interest there was in an article about ice fishing.

It became clear to me that travelers are always searching for fun and unique winter activities to do during their stay in Quebec City. That’s why I’ve decided to write another blog post, this time highlighting even more amazing winter activities. Regardless of when you choose to visit my city, there’s always plenty to explore. However, Quebec City is one of those places that truly comes to life during the cold season.

Visiting Quebec City in the winter is the perfect time to embrace the snow. As a quebecoise , I take snow for granted and to be honest, sometimes, I get tired of it! However, many of my guests on my walking tours of Quebec City are not familiar with snow at all…and that’s exactly what they are looking for here. Although Quebec City winters are cold, don’t worry – you’ll be too enchanted to even notice! Here are, in my opinion, the best things to do in Quebec City in the winter.

Best winter activities to do in Quebec City

Ice fishing.

Visiting Quebec City during January, February or March? Good! The ice on our lakes is thick enough to do ice fishing. During the winter months, fishes stay active to get through the cold season. As a result, families and experienced fisherman alike can catch trout, yellow perch, and walleye. It’s a very festive activity. You will certainly meet new friends (and have the opportunity to practice your french!) Because of that, ice fishing is definitely a tradition here in Quebec and in Canada, especially if you have kids.

There are many places around Quebec City where it’s possible to experience ice fishing such as…

• Expédition Mi-Loup,
• Pourvoirie du Lac Beauport
• Réserve Faunique de Portneuf
• Station touristique Duchesnay

I personally really like Expédion Mi-Loup because they offer a shuttle service departing from Old Quebec. Very convenient! They also provide you with proper winter clothing needed. Located on the Orleans Island, Expédition Mi-Loup also offer dog-sledding, snowshoeing and snowmobile. That’s 4 activities at the same place!

Dog sledding

Speaking of dog sledding, this is another amazing winter activity Quebec City and it’s region has to offer. It’s also one of the things I like to most about living here is the proximity we have with nature. You don’t have to drive for hours to be in breathtaking nature and experience unique winter activities such as dog sledding.

.ugb-d019f48 .ugb-blockquote__item{border-radius:0px !important;text-align:center !important}.ugb-d019f48 .ugb-blockquote__quote{fill:#8ed1fc !important;opacity:0.5;width:120px !important;height:120px !important;left:100px !important;top:45px !important}.ugb-d019f48 .ugb-blockquote__text{font-size:25px !important;font-weight:500 !important;letter-spacing:0.7px !important;line-height:1.4em !important}.ugb-d019f48 .ugb-inner-block{text-align:center}.ugb-d019f48.ugb-blockquote{min-height:360px;background-color:rgba(255,255,255,1)}@media screen and (-ms-high-contrast:active),screen and (-ms-high-contrast:none){.ugb-d019f48.ugb-blockquote{height:360px}} Tour guide tip: Dog sledding can be a lot of fun but, be prepared to move! This is a sport! Depending on the terrain and the energy of the dogs, you might need to help them, especially if there are hills on the trail.

Just like ice fishing, there are plenty of places where you can experience dog sledding around Quebec City. I already mentioned Expédition Mi-Loup but here is a list to help you choose the perfect place for you:

• Pourvoirie du Lac Beauport: located about 25 minutes North of the city. The service is excellent and the nature is breathtaking.
• Chenil La Poursuite: located South of Quebec City. If you are driving to Montreal, this place is a great option.
• Les Secrets Nordiques : based West of the city, near a ski resort call Mont St-Anne. The great thing about this place is their package including a gondola ride to get to the top of the mountain and admire the view of the St-Lawrence River.

Dog sledding is a traditional mode of transport here in the Great White North. This unique activity puts you in touch with nature like no other. I feel it’s very impressive to see these dogs running like if they are never out of energy.

Convinced? I suggest you book early if you want to do dog sledding, especially if you are visiting my city during the Winter Carnival. This winter activity requires a little bit of planning, but its well worth it!

.ugb-4f6e04b .ugb-blockquote__item{border-radius:0px !important;text-align:center !important}.ugb-4f6e04b .ugb-blockquote__quote{fill:#8ed1fc !important;opacity:0.5;width:120px !important;height:120px !important;left:100px !important;top:45px !important}.ugb-4f6e04b .ugb-blockquote__text{font-size:25px !important;font-weight:500 !important;letter-spacing:0.7px !important;line-height:1.4em !important}.ugb-4f6e04b .ugb-inner-block{text-align:center}.ugb-4f6e04b.ugb-blockquote{min-height:360px;background-color:rgba(255,255,255,1)}@media screen and (-ms-high-contrast:active),screen and (-ms-high-contrast:none){.ugb-4f6e04b.ugb-blockquote{height:360px}} Did you know? You can reach 70 km / hour (40 mph) on this toboggan ride! Hold tight!

Toboggan ride on Dufferin Terrace

Among all winter activities, this is truly a classic! This impressive structure which holds the rides has become familiar to residents of Quebec. It appeared on the Dufferin Terrace in 1884 and it’s without a doubt a must-do winter activity for tourist and locals alike. No wonder this winter activity attracts thousands of visitors each year. If weather permits, the slides are open from mid-December to mid-March. You can buy tickets directly next to the slides in the coffee shop called ”1884”.

The Ice Hotel

Was I really going to write a blog post about the best winter activities in Quebec City without mentioning the Ice Hotel? Of course not! The famous Ice Hotel is located about 30 minutes North of Quebec City on the site of Village Vacances Valcartier. During summer time, this place is well known for it’s water park and in winter, the place transforms itself into a winter wonderland. You can do snow tubing all day over there and even ice skating. A few years ago, Village Vacances Valcartier build an indoor water park called Bora Parc. Therefore, even if its freezing cold outside, you can still wear your bathing suit and enjoy the slides!

.ugb-1bc146c .ugb-blockquote__item{border-radius:0px !important;text-align:center !important}.ugb-1bc146c .ugb-blockquote__quote{fill:#8ed1fc !important;opacity:0.5;width:120px !important;height:120px !important;left:100px !important;top:45px !important}.ugb-1bc146c .ugb-blockquote__text{font-size:25px !important;font-weight:500 !important;letter-spacing:0.7px !important;line-height:1.4em !important}.ugb-1bc146c .ugb-inner-block{text-align:center}.ugb-1bc146c.ugb-blockquote{min-height:360px;background-color:rgba(255,255,255,1)}@media screen and (-ms-high-contrast:active),screen and (-ms-high-contrast:none){.ugb-1bc146c.ugb-blockquote{height:360px}} Did you know? The Ice Hotel is made of 30,000 tons of snow and 500 tons of ice and the walls are up to four feet thick !

The Hotel de Glace (Ice Hotel) is the only one of its kind in North America and it really shows how crazy quebecois are about winter! It changes theme each winter so even for locals, visiting the Ice Hotel is breathtaking. You’ll find fascinating art and ice sculptures as soon as you enter the Grand Hall of the Hotel. One of the things I like the most about visiting the Ice Hotel is explore, one by one each and every rooms and suites. That are all different! Also, don’t miss the chapel , where people from all over the world get married in a very unique way. At the end of your visit, treat yourself with a delicious cocktail served in a glass made of ice!

Ice skating in Quebec City

Prefer to do ice skating? You’ll find many ice skating rinks around Old Quebec and for most of them, you can rent skates for a small fee. Here is a list of my favorite skating rink around Quebec City. Rentals are available in these 3 places.

• P lace D’Youville : you will certainly enjoy the ambiance at this iconic skating rink! Located just out side St-Jean Gate, enjoy the Christmas lights and the traditional music.
• Anneau de Glace des Plaines d’Abraham: Enjoy this huge skating rink located on the historic Plains of Abraham. The quality of the ice makes it the perfect place for beginners.
• Parc de la Pointe-aux-Lievres: located 10 minutes from Old Quebec, this skating rink is a local’s favorite. I really like the ”8” shape of this skating rink. It’s like skating on a trail.

German Christmas Market

With its cobblestone streets and unique European architecture, Quebec City has everything it needs to create the magical atmosphere of a traditional German Christmas market. With its typical wooden kiosks and scintillating lights, the German Community of Quebec City really made the perfect event that has become a must-see for locals and visitors alike.

I like the German Market so much that I even created a walking tour that includes a visit of the Market! Also, I added to this walking tour some snacks and mulled wine!

Marie’s German Christmas Market Tour

During this 3-hour private walking tour, we will cover dozens of Quebec City top tourist attractions and, of course, some surprises on the way! Half-way during our tour, you will have free time to explore Quebec City German Christmas Market . Mulled wine tasting and traditional German treats included!

Looking for even more winter activities? My friend Pamela wrote a very complete guide called 30+ things to do in Quebec City in winter . Check it out!

Marie-Pierre Lessard

Quebec City Tour Guide, Business Owner and Blogger

Will I be showing you Quebec City on a walking tour during your next stay winter getaway? I hope so! You can contact me and book a tour using the contact form below. See you in Quebec City!

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• Must-See Attractions: Top 10 Things to Do

Québec City’s history, friendly vibe, and myriad attractions throughout the year make it a stand‑out travel destination. Every season brings its own special activities and stunning sights. This list of top attractions will help you plan your visit and enjoy a trip that hits all the right notes.

Include these essentials in your itinerary, they are not to be missed!

Stroll North America's oldest streets

Walk along the fortified walls surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the view from every angle.  For all its 400 years of incredible history , it’s still very much alive: magical in the winter and popping in the summer . Full of charming little streets and local shops, Old Québec is best visited on foot and we highly recommend a walking tour to learn about its fascinating history.

Château Frontenac

Québec City’s most famous landmark is also the most photographed hotel in the world. Whether you’re just stopping by for a tour of the Château or staying for the night, it’s well worth a visit!

Dufferin Terrace

Take a stroll along Dufferin Terrace for a magnificent view of the St. Lawrence River and Château Frontenac, as well as live entertainment in the summer and a toboggan run in the winter. Named in honour of Lord Dufferin, a governor general of Canada who loved Québec City, the terrace is so eternally popular that it has been expanded twice since it was first built. While you’re there, hit up another historic site: the remains of the Saint‑Louis Forts and Châteaux , which lie beneath this iconic promenade.

The Ramparts and Gates

Did you know that Québec is the only walled city north of Mexico? The walls and four gates that surround the Old City will make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time.

Petit-Champlain

With its many local shops and enchanting ambiance, this charming pedestrian street is sure to win you over. Known for its concentration of art galleries and fine bistros, Petit‑Champlain is a bona fide memory maker.

Place Royale

Place Royale , this historical gem, is where Québec City was officially founded. The unique period architecture testifies to the combined French and British influences so characteristic of the city’s built environment.

Plains of Abraham

On September 13, 1759, the giant urban park known as the Plains of Abraham was the site of the famous Battle of Québec , the confrontation that decided Canada’s fate when the French lost the city to the British.

Citadelle de Québec

At the top of the famous Cap Diamant lies the biggest British fortress in North America. Built by the British between 1820 and 1850 to defend the city, the Citadelle is a remarkable military heritage site and home to the Musée Royal 22 e Regiment , where you can learn all about the history of the regiment and the fortress. 

Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec

Located in the heart of Old Québec, this basilica cathedral was home to the first Catholic parish north of the Spanish colonies. It’s also the site of the first and only Holy Door outside Europe, which is currently open on the occasion of the 350 th anniversary of the diocese of Québec until December 8, 2024.

The streets of the Old Port are perfect for strolling through art galleries and antique shops. The picturesque streets are lined with magnificent houses. It is also the starting point for a boat tour .

Get Our 50 Top Picks to Eat local

Our guide to great places to eat and drink local is a must-have to experience the flavours of Québec’s products and specialties.

Montmorency Falls

See a waterfall that’s 30 metres higher than niagara falls.

Whether you’re riding the gondola, climbing the scenic stairway or crossing the suspension bridge, the views of the  Montmorency Falls  are simply breathtaking. Experience the power of nature, only 15 minutes from downtown. 

Suspension Bridge

From Manoir Montmorency, a path runs along the cliff’s edge to the suspension bridge at the very top of the falls. Once on the bridge, you’ll experience the overwhelming power of the falls as it rushes and roars beneath your feet.

Take the gondola for more great views of the falls and a superb panorama of Île d’Orléans and Québec City.

 If you’re a thrill-seeker, the double zipline will get you extremely close to the falls. Experience the adrenaline rush on your own or with a friend. You’ll be talking about it for months! 

Via Ferrata

Explore the falls from a different angle along the via ferrata . It’s safe, easy (no need to handle a carabiner), and gives you the chance to get up close to the falls along 3 different routes.

The Manoir restaurant and terrace

The chef of Manoir Montmorency invites you to pull up a chair on the terrace. The natural panoramic scenery is exceptional, the menu features a vast array of delights, and the culinary offerings overflow with colour and flavour.

Montmorency Falls in Winter

The Montmorency Falls turn into a playground for ice climbers in the winter. As soon as the cold hits, the mist from the falls freezes into the famous “pain de sucre,” or sugar loaf, an impressive natural ice formation.

I had no idea there was a stunning waterfall just minutes from Old Québec! I loved ziplining across the waterfalls at Parc de la Chute-Montmorency. It was such an adrenaline rush! It's also the perfect spot for a hike with epic views. - Sarah MacLean, Wellness Travelled, Toronto

Jacques-Cartier National Park

Explore one of québec’s most dazzling glacial valleys.

Jacques‑Cartier National Park , a vast and mountainous plateau crisscrossed by deep valleys and rivers, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There are a multitude of ways to experience the park and its lush surroundings. Hiking along the many trails, you may encounter beavers, deer, and even moose in their natural habitats.

Hiking Trails

Jacques‑Cartier National Park boasts over 100 km of hiking trails. With its abundant greenery and breathtaking views, it’s a great place to discover the beauty of the region. In the fall, the hillsides covered in blazing fall foliage make for a memorable experience.

Camping Sites

If you like camping , you’ll be happy to know that there are a number of cozy campsites where you can pitch a tent for the night. You can also stay in a permanent tent, yurt, or small wood cabin

Kayaking & Canoeing

Explore the river valley aboard a canoe or kayak , just like the First Peoples who have navigated its waters for centuries. Floating on a river that’s quiet and roaring by turns, you’ll be blown away by the sheer size of the valley walls and the forest with its endless shades of green.

Jacques‑Cartier National Park in Winter

 When the park is covered in snow, it’s time to pull out the snowshoes , enjoy the great outdoors, and do some backcountry skiing .

Île d'Orléans

Connect with local artisans on a day trip full of history and flavours.

Stop in at the many artisan outlets and farm stands around the island for a delicious sampling of local products and the tastiest shopping you’ve done in years! Driving around  Île d'Orléans  is like a trip back in time to 18th century rural Québec, complete with centuries-old villages, farms, churches, and heritage homes. As the birthplace of French North America, it’s ground zero for many of our ancestors—families that arrived from France and went on to make their homes throughout the continent. The island is also home to 5 of Québec’s prettiest villages.

Local Artisans and Products

 You’ll find plenty of gourmet stops on the island. Visit the vineyards, cider producers, chocolate shops, vinegar makers, and cheesemakers and enjoy a picnic in one of the picturesque villages looking out over the St. Lawrence River. The island is so authentic and the people so welcoming, you’re bound to have a memorable day.

Enchanting Heritage Sites

 Île d’Orléans has over 600 historic buildings that have been lovingly restored and preserved, including magnificent stone houses that date back to the French colonial era and the oldest rural church in New France. 

Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec

Appreciate fine art at the world’s largest collection of québec art.

Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ) houses a reference collection of more than 40,000 works—a comprehensive overview of Québec art from the 17th century to the present day. Visit the museum’s pavilions nestled in the vast expanse of the Plains of Abraham and take the full measure of the talented artists from here and elsewhere whose works are on display. 

Exhibitions

 In the museum’s permanent collections you’ll find works by Québec’s greatest painters as well as an impressive collection of Inuit art.  *You can access all the exhibitions and activities in the Pierre Lassonde Pavilion, but the other pavilions are closed for construction.

A Stunning Pavilion

A favourite with Instagrammers, the Lassonde Pavilion is a stunning piece of architecture. The walkways and staircases bathed in the light streaming in from the tall glass windows are sure to win you over. This summer, the Rembrandt - Etchings from the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen exhibition is on display.

 With workshops for kids and guided tours, MNBAQ is fun for the whole family!

Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine

Spend a quiet moment at the oldest pilgrimage site north of mexico.

Follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims who have been coming to Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine , one of 5 national shrines in Québec, for over 350 years to pay homage to Saint Anne. Step inside and admire the glorious stained glass, paintings, mosaics, and stone and wooden sculptures that adorn the basilica. Attributed with miraculous healing powers, Saint Anne is a popular saint among people who are sick and handicapped. You’ll see many objects hung from the sanctuary columns in gratitude for Saint Anne’s favours. In summer, a river shuttle connects Old Québec to the shrine.

Decorated in mosaics that tell the life of Saint Anne, the vault is a favourite with visitors.

The Way of the Cross

Outside, below the escarpment, you can make a modern‑day pilgrimage along the path that takes you past 14 stations illustrating moments in the Passion of Christ. Built gradually between 1913 to 1945, each station features 5 bronze statues.

Village Vacances Valcartier / Ice Hotel

Have fun at eastern canada’s largest theme park.

Village Vacances Valcartier is a gigantic complex that boasts a huge outdoor waterpark and an indoor waterpark open year-round! In the winter, you can go nuts in the biggest winter playground in the Americas and visit North America’s only ice hotel .

An Outdoor Waterpark

In the summer the 35 waterslides, 2 adventure rivers, and huge wavepool make for an unforgettable day full of thrilling fun! 

Bora Park, the Indoor Waterpark

Open 365 days a year, this indoor waterpark has 14 slides, including 2 extreme slides, a family pool with water toys, a surfing wave, and an adventure river. 

The Ice Hotel

From January to March, you can visit North America’s only ice hotel and even spend the night. This temporary work of art is built entirely out of ice and snow and features rooms, a chapel, and an ice bar.

A Winter Playground

Everyone will have a blast playing in the snow in this giant winter playground, with tubing runs as far as the eye can see! Thrill seekers can go barrelling down the hill in a snow raft or spinning at high speed in the Tornade. And to get you back to the top in record time, the hill is equipped with tow ropes.

Aquarium du Québec

Enter the fascinating world of nearly 10,000 specimens from 300 species.

Aquarium du Québec  is spectacularly located overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Visit the Awesome Ocean Discovery tunnel to check out the creatures that inhabit the depths of the Pacific, and find out about Québec’s rivers and streams too. Make acquaintances with marine species like polar bears, seahorses, and several species of seals. On the aquarium grounds you’ll find everything you need to spend an unforgettable day as a family: splash pads, picnic spots with a view of the St. Lawrence River, and a ropes course for the kids. 

The Awesome Ocean Discovery Tunnel

 See an underwater world from below as you walk through an enormous aquarium in the Awesome Ocean Discovery Tunnel. 

Fascinating Jellyfish and Seahorses

Meet the marine animals that live in our oceans in the Deep Sea Pavilion. You’ll see hundreds of jellyfish, seahorses, seadragons, and an interactive pool for petting rays.

Musée de la civilisation

Learn something new at one of québec’s most popular interactive museums.

Join in hands-on workshops for the whole family on a wide range of current, historical, and sometimes unusual subjects. Musée de la civilisation  sheds new light on diverse societies and moments in history through a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits with an international or Québec focus. This summer, there’s a fascinating exhibition about gladiators . 

Permanent Exhibitions

Explore Québec culture with original exhibits at Musée de la civilisation. This Is Our Story  was created in partnership with 11 Indigenous nations as a way of presenting their contemporary cultures and sharing how they see the world.

The Youth Zones

Musée de la civilisation is Québec City’s premier family museum, with family‑friendly programming and  interactive exhibitions. It’s an educational outing your kids will love! 

Explore Huron-Wendat ancestral traditions

Experience Huron‑Wendat culture in Wendake, the beating heart of the Huron‑Wendat Nation. Share in their long history, culture, and traditional knowledge as you take in dancing, hear stories and legends, and visit the Huron‑Wendat Museum and the authentic craft stores in the village, located a few minutes from downtown Québec City. Round out the immersive indigenous experience by tasting the finest Northern terroir cuisine, with subtle and succulent dishes featuring game meat and corn.

The Huron-Wendat Culture

The Huron Onhoüa Chetek8e Traditional Site is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and way of life of the Huron‑Wendat people, yesterday and today. After that, stop by the Huron‑Wendat Museum for a craft workshop or to hear myths and legends by the fire in the longhouse.

The Night-Illuminated Pathway

Dont' miss Onhwa’ Lumina , a new  enchanted multimedia night walk into the heart of Wendat Culture. It is the only immersive multimedia experience of its kind to be open summer and winter in Québec.

First Nations Cuisine

Corn, game meat, and fish take centre stage in Wendake’s restaurants. Get a taste of Indigenous culinary culture at La Traite, located within the Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations , a boutique hotel and museum complex.

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10 Best Things to Do in Old Québec City

30 Best Things To Do in Quebec City & Most Fun Activities

The best things to do in Quebec City whether it be indoor or outdoor, in the sunshine or in the snow.

Whether you're a local or a first-time visitor, there are tons of things to do in Quebec City. Quebec City is steeped in history and is in the history books for more than one reason. It’s the oldest French-speaking community in North America, it’s the only walled city north of Mexico and it’s home to the world’s most photographed hotel.

Get ready to step back in time as you walk down the cobblestoned streets of Old Quebec, one of the most popular activities in Quebec City. For more things to do in Quebec City, you’re going to want to keep reading. 

From world-renowned attractions to must-see neighbourhoods, I’ve covered all bases. Plus, I’ve snuck in a few underrated things to do in Quebec City that this local loves and thinks everyone needs to experience in my hometown.

Related: Wondering where else to visit in Quebec? Here are the best places to visit in Quebec .

Things To Do in Quebec City

1. walk around old quebec.

Old Quebec holds prestigious UNESCO World Heritage status and it's no wonder why. It’s one of the top places to visit in Quebec City and the following iconic landmarks collectively capture the essence of Old Quebec's beauty: 

• Petit Champlain
• Place Royale
• Terrasse Dufferin
• Place D’Armes
• Place de l'Hotel de Ville
• Rue du Tresor
• Rue De Buade
• Rue St-Jean
• Rue Saint-Louis
• Porte Saint-Louis
• Place D’Youville
• Plains of Abraham

So make sure you add these to your list of things to see in Old Quebec.

2. Tour Old Quebec on a Double-Decker Bus

• Year-round 

If you’re not much of a walker, take a double-decker bus for a comfortable tour of the best Quebec City attractions. The expertly curated routes will bring you to Place d’Armes, Place Royale, Quartier Saint Jean Baptiste, Place d’Youville, The Plains of Abraham, Citadelle de Québec and so much more. 

Choose the one-hour express Unitours bus if you’re in a hurry. If you’ll be in Quebec for a few days, opt for the Quebec Tours two-day pass which lets you get on and off at the best Quebec attractions. Just hop back on when the next bus loops around. Dress for the weather as the top level of the bus is open air! 

Related: If you’re staying for two days, you will also need our two days in Quebec City itinerary .

3. Visit Inside Château Frontenac

Chateau Frontenac is a historic grand hotel renowned for its breathtaking architecture and historical significance. There are three options to experience the interior of Chateau Frontenac. You can book a table at one of the restaurants, either for a meal or for High Tea. You can also book a guided tour, which is kid-friendly, or simply walk into the reception hall and boutiques for free.

4. Strom Spa Old Quebec

Strom Spa Nordique in Old Quebec City offers a range of relaxing services and amenities. This tranquil venue provides soothing spa treatments, including massages and thermal baths; allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate. The spa features beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces too, such as saunas, hot tubs and cozy relaxation areas. It's just a short walk and an even shorter drive or taxi ride away from Old Quebec, making it easily accessible for a moment of pampering (you deserve it). Strom Spa features on my list of the best spas in Quebec City.

5. Musee National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec

MNBAQ is one of the top Quebec tourist attractions. It’s easy to see why, as it showcases a remarkable collection of fine art. This includes paintings, sculptures and decorative arts spanning various periods and styles. The museum is located in a historic building, to which modern sections have been added. The museum's architecture is a piece of art itself: a beautiful and unique blend of modernity and tradition. MNBAQ is a good place to see local Quebec and indigenous art too. It is located near the Plains of Abraham and Rue Cartier, which is the perfect spot for a meal or drink.  

6. Musee de la Civilisation

Whether you're interested in ancient civilizations, contemporary social issues or Quebec's rich heritage, Musée de la Civilisation offers an insightful journey that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the world around us. The museum is located in the Old Port. It regularly features activities and workshops for children, so it’s worth consulting its official website to plan your visit.

7. Sledding at Le Massif

I must say, sledding on a luge at Le Massif is one of the most fun winter activities in Quebec City I have ever done around my hometown. The luge trail stretches out for a thrilling 7.5 kilometres of downhill fun. From the summit of the mountain, there are breathtaking views of the St Lawrence River and surrounding snow-covered mountains.

A car is necessary to reach Le Massif from Quebec City as it's about a 75-minute drive away. If your budget allows it, I recommend staying the night at the nearby Club Med Hotel.

8. Aquarium du Quebec

One of the top things to do in Quebec City, the Aquarium du Quebec is home to an array of Nordic creatures that you don’t get to see elsewhere. This includes polar bears, seals, arctic foxes and owls. 

The two indoor pavilions are home to hundreds of varieties of fish and wildlife species. Seal and polar bear feeding shows are scheduled throughout the day too. It’s open year-round but the summer season offers a few more activities for kids. If the aquarium is your type of activity, make sure you read my detailed review and tips for visiting the Quebec Aquarium .

Related: Check out these other family activities in Quebec City .

9. Village Vacances Valcartier

• Winter and summer

Village Vacances Valcartier is a fun vacation spot. In the summer, you can enjoy a ton of water-based activities like water slides, lazy rivers and swimming pools at their awesome water park. When winter comes, the village turns into a magical snowy wonderland with thrilling adventures like snow tubing, ice skating and snow rafting. The easiest way to get there is by car and it’s only a 35-minute drive from Old Quebec.

10.  Ice Hotel

The Ice Hotel in Quebec City is an incredible seasonal hotel entirely made of ice and snow. It’s one of the top Quebec City attractions in winter, but the ultimate adventure is to book a stay and spend a night in one of the icy rooms. However, if that’s out of your budget or you’re not keen to stay overnight, you can still visit the hotel, including the ice bar and the ice chapel (if it isn’t hosting a wedding).

Conveniently located next to Village Vacances Valcartier, it's ideal to combine both visits in one day for an unforgettable icy adventure.

11. Observatoire de la Capitale

From Observatoire de La Capitale’s elevated vantage point, you can enjoy panoramic views of Quebec City and the surrounding landscape. The Observatoire is located in the tallest building in Quebec City so it offers 360-degree views of the city. You can spy Chateau Frontenac, Plains of Abraham and the Citadelle among other Quebec tourist attractions. Check out the next two items on this list for other great ways to see Quebec from above.

12.  Ciel! Bistro Bar

An alternative way to enjoy breathtaking views of Quebec City from up high is by visiting Ciel! Bistro Bar, Quebec's only revolving restaurant. Ciel! Bistro Bar offers a fantastic alternative to the Observatoire de la Capitale, as your money is spent on a culinary experience rather than an entrance ticket. Additionally, the restaurant boasts more flexible opening hours; providing you with ample opportunities to take in the panoramic vistas.

 13. Rooftop Heated Pool at Hilton Quebec

The Hilton Quebec features a rooftop heated pool open year-round. You don't even have to be a hotel guest to enjoy it! For a fee, the pool is open to the general public, allowing everyone to indulge in a refreshing swim while taking in the picturesque surroundings. You won’t get a 360-degree view and it is not nearly as high up as the Observatoire or Ciel! Bistro Bar, but you’ll still see a bit of Old Quebec from up high.

14.  Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

In Old Quebec, you can take a horse-drawn carriage guided tour of the Old Town. However, in my opinion, it can be a hit-or-miss experience since bookings are not available in advance. The waiting and pick-up spot for Quebec City carriage rides is at Places d'Armes near Chateau Frontenac (on Rue St-Louis, the opposite side of Chateau Frontenac).

15.  Bear Watching Near Quebec City

Most people don’t know that it’s possible to see black bears in their natural habitat near Quebec City. At Station Duchesnay, visitors have the incredible opportunity to see bears up close from the safety of a bus . This unique tour provides a typically North American and memorable experience. Duchesnay is a 45-minute drive from Old Quebec.   

If you’re visiting during the right season, you can also combine bear, moose, lynx and whale watching with this package offer on Get Your Guide . It’s a full-day tour offered in English that picks you up from your hotel.

16.  Dog Sledding at Lake Beauport

Book a dog sledding tour at Pourvoirie du Lac Beauport for an outdoor adventure with lovable husky pups. The pilot of the sled stands while the passenger sits in front, swapping spots halfway through the loop trail. This unique experience is a lot of fun but quite the cardio workout as the person in the back sometimes has to push or help the dogs uphill. The tour includes a well-equipped reception cabin where you’ll find restrooms, hot beverages and winter gear rental.

17.  Ski and Snowboard at Stoneham

Stoneham Ski Resort is one of the best spots near Quebec City for skiing and snowboarding. With a mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced runs, there are conditions for every level. Many visitors have a blast on the night trails at Stoneham as well. New skiers, snowboarders or anyone looking to hone their skills can take a lesson at the TELUS Winter Sports School too. The Alpins boutique also has top-of-the-line winter gear, equipment rentals and a repair shop. 

18.  Stay at Club Med Charlevoix

Luxury meets outdoor activities galore at Club Med Charlevoix. This all-inclusive resort outside Quebec City is perfect for couples or families looking for skiing, ice skating and luging in winter. In the summer, you can go biking, hiking or even whale watching! One major perk of Club Med Charlevoix is the unbeatable views of the Saint Lawrence River and Charlevoix Mountains. 

19.  Visit Benjo With Kids

If you’re travelling with children, one of the best activities in Old Quebec is visiting the Benjo Toy Store. Creative details like a mini VIP entrance for kids, a small train running on weekends and the giant robot named Monsieur Bidule make it the best toy store in Quebec. Inside, you’ll find everything from Legos and cars to dolls, soft toys, candy, books, puzzles and puppets. There is something for every curious kiddo at Benjo! 

20.  Quebec-Levis Ferry Ride

Take a ride on the Quebec-Levis Ferry to enjoy top-notch views of Old Quebec City and Chateau Frontenac from a distance. Once in Levis, explore the wharf area, which is home to several local eateries and cafes. You can choose to take your car across the Saint Lawrence River, load your bike onto the ferry to enjoy riverside trails or simply go on foot. 

21.  Parliament Building

The Parliament Building is one of the top things to do in Quebec City for history buffs as it dates back to 1877. This opulent building is a must-see stop where you can take a self-guided tour or sign up for a tour led by a historian. You’ll get to check out Quebecois artwork, grand French-style architecture, exhibits and the National Assembly Chamber itself. 

22.  Try Maple Toffee on Petit Champlain

Stop by La Petite Cabane à Sucre to taste some of Quebec City’s most iconic maple treats. Test out fresh maple syrup, maple butter and maple ice cream. Their famous maple taffy rolled on ice is especially a one-of-a-kind Canadian experience. La Petite Cabane à Sucre is located along the charming Petit Champlain in Lower Old Quebec. 

23.  Canyon Sainte-Anne

• May to October 

Hop in your car and take a 30-minute road trip from Quebec City to Canyon Sainte-Anne. Here, you’ll discover a roaring waterfall and gorge, suspension bridges, Via Ferrata (a mix of hiking and rock climbing) and even zip lines. Ride the exciting zip lines or trek the hiking trails in nature. Discover more itineraries for day trips from Quebec City . 

24. Funiculaire Ride

The Funiculaire Ride is the best way to travel from the Upper Town to the Lower Town via an escalator-style cable car. This is a lovely way to view Petit Champlain, the Old Port and the Saint Lawrence River. Buy tickets online beforehand or at the boarding points. One is behind the Fairmont Hotel along the edge of the Dufferin Terrace and the other is in the Louis Jolliet House if you’re coming from Basse Ville. Although there is usually a queue during Christmas time, the wait is worth it. 

25. Toboggan Slide on Terrasse Dufferin

The toboggan slide is one of the most exciting and oldest activities in Old Quebec, dating back to 1884. You can zoom down the ice tube track solo, with a buddy or fit up to four on your wooden sled. After your race to the bottom, you can buy another ticket to ride again. But get ready to trek back up the hill with your toboggan. The effort is worth the fantastic adrenaline rush!

26. Wendake

Wendake is known for its authentic Huron village recreations and is home to an array of local artisans. Fortunately, it’s located just outside of Quebec City. Visit the Onhoüa Cheteke Traditional Huron Site to learn about the local people of the Huron-Wendat Nation through exhibitions and demonstrations. Then stop by Musee Huron-Wendat to see artifacts and artwork. A trip to Wendake will show you a very interesting and important side of Québec culture.

27.  Restaurant Sagamité

Discover more about Huron-Wendat heritage through gastronomy at Sagamité restaurant. Named after a classic and hearty soup, Sagamité offers a menu of traditional recipes with a modern spin. The dishes represent the values of the Nation such as the house special, Yatista, which shows the importance of fire. Get a taste of indigenous cuisine at either of the Sagamité locations in Wendake or Quebec City. 

28. German Christmas Markets

• Winter (November 23 to December 23)

Get in the holiday spirit at the German Christmas Markets in Old Quebec, as Quebec City comes to life, decked out in Christmas lights and decorations. The European-style festival can be found at the Dufferin Terrace, Place d’Armes, Place d’Youville and along Rue Saint Anne. The month-long celebration hosts performances, Christmas choirs and carolers, festive activities, shopping and German holiday delicacies like bratwurst, cookies and mulled wine.  

Learn more about the delights you’ll find at the German Christmas Markets .

29. Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec)

• Winter (February)

Winter Carnival dates back to 1894 as a way to beat the cold, long winter. Today, the tradition lives on with 10 days of winter celebrations. This is one of the best things to do in Old Quebec in winter. Witness ice sculptures, an ice palace, lights and parades, and enjoy activities like skating, sleigh rides and canoe racing. Check the official schedule for exact times and dates and always keep your eyes peeled for Bonhomme, the Winter Carnival snowman mascot!

30. Grosse Île

• Summer to fall (May to October)

Grosse Île is one of the top historic things to do near Quebec City; offering a window into the past of Canada’s Irish immigrants. At the Irish Memorial National Historic Site, undergo a pretend medical inspection as the original immigrants did and then board a trolley to see more of the area.  Explore the island by bike or on foot, reaching Saint-Luc-de-la-Grosse-Île Village and the Irish cemetery along the interpretive trail. To get to Grosse Île by car, take the Les Croisières Lachance boat. 

After finishing this bumper blog post about my beloved hometown, you won’t be wondering: “What to do in Quebec City?”. From the top Quebec City tourist attractions to the best free things to do and family-friendly activities, I believe I’ve covered all bases from winter to summer and the seasons in between. I hope you enjoy your Quebec City vacation!

About the Author

Anne was born and raised in Quebec City. She is our resident expert for the city of Quebec and other popular regional destinations such as Charlevoix and Gaspésie. Having travelled to every corner of the province with her children, she is also our expert for family related topics on Quebec Wonders.

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Written by Lura Seavey and Lana Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The only walled city in North America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site , French-speaking Québec City has a strategic location atop steep cliffs that overlook the St. Lawrence River. Founded in 1608 as a fur trading colony at present-day Place Royale, it quickly became an administrative center and today is the capital of Québec Province and one of the most beautiful cities in Canada .

The Upper Town , also known as Haute-Village, was originally developed for its military advantage and contains the defensive Citadel, as well as some of the city's most iconic landmarks, like the Château Frontenac and City Fortifications.

The Lower Town (or Basse-Ville) is where the original settlement was located and is known for its picturesque, narrow streets and historic, stone buildings. This is where you'll find Place Royale and the Quartier Petit Champlain. Sets of stairs and a number of steep streets lead down from the Upper Town to the Lower Town, making the entire area easy to explore on foot. At the base is the St. Lawrence River, making the setting that much more picturesque.

Along here is access to the Québec-Levis Ferry at Vieux Port (Old Port), and there are many tourist attractions, including the Musée de la Civilization. The upper and lower districts are connected by winding streets, a few steep staircases, and the funiculaire.

Plan your next getaway with our list of the best tourist attractions in Québec City.

1. Wander through Place Royale

2. explore la citadelle de québec, 3. see the plains of abraham (champs de bataille), 4. stroll through quartier petit champlain, 5. visit musée de la civilisation, 6. château frontenac, 7. parliament building (hotel du parlement) & parliament hill, 8. basilica of sainte-anne-de-beaupré, 9. observatoire de la capitale (capital observatory), 10. fortifications of quebec national historic site, 11. old port (vieux port), 12. québec-levis ferry, 13. grande allée, 14. carnaval de québec, 15. pont de québec, where to stay in quebec city for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to quebec city, quebec city - climate chart.

This is tourist central in Québec, both for the history and the modern day ambience that comes with the restaurants, patios, and shops that now fill the historic structures.

Place Royale stands on the site of Québec's actual foundation, the spot where, in 1608, Samuel de Champlain erected a fur trading post that soon grew into the capital of French America. Named in honor of Louis XIV whose bust adorns it, Place Royale is the largest surviving ensemble of 17th- and 18th-century buildings in North America .

The pretty stone church, Notre-Dame des Victoires faces a cobbled square, along with Maison Chevalier of the Musée de la Civilisation . Adjacent to Place Royale, facing out over the river and encircled by stout walls and palisades, the little Batterie Royale was constructed in 1691.

In summer, the area is home to outdoor dining areas. In winter, the snow transforms the old streets and stone buildings into a postcard-perfect scene. This is a beautiful area to wander through in the day or evening and at any time of year.

Thrusting upwards from the west and facing the St. Lawrence River, Cap Diamant reaches a height of 100 meters and commands an extensive and varied panorama. Sitting atop this is Québec's star-shaped Citadel, a massive fortress protected by thick walls, ramparts, and ditches that was built in 1832. Still an active military post, the Citadel is used as military quarters for generals, officers, and servicemen, as well as the summer residence of the Governor General of Canada.

This is also the headquarters of the 22nd Canadian Regiment, which formed at the beginning of the First World War and boasts a distinguished record, including action at the Battle of the Somme and, much later, in the Korean War.

Summer visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony each morning, and the military museum, located in the mid-18th-century powder magazine in the southern corner of the Citadel, is open year-round.

From the far end of the boardwalk in front on the Château Frontenac, a set of stairs leads up to the Citadel and the Plains of Abraham.

Address: 1 Côte de la Citadelle, Québec City

Official site: http://www.lacitadelle.qc.ca

Outside the city walls, to the west of the Citadel, stretches the green expanse known as the Plains of Abraham (Champs de Bataille), where in 1759 the British, led by General Wolfe, fought the French under Montcalm and won. Exhibits retell the tumultuous history of how Québec City resisted and then fell to the British.

The park is also home to the remains of two Martello towers , later additions to Québec's fortifications. Begun in the late 1930s, the Joan of Arc Garden designed by Louis Perron has a fabulous display of flowers from spring until fall.

Families visiting with children will find interactive exhibits at the museum, which encourage younger visitors to engage with history, and young children will have fun with the family "treasure hunt," which encourages exploration and discovery within the park.

Address: 835 Avenue Wilfrid-Laurier, Québec City

Official site: http://www.ccbn-nbc.gc.ca

Once the bustling capital of New France, the Quartier Petit Champlain is arguably the most beautiful area of the city. Wandering the narrow streets that lace between the historic buildings makes you feel like you are in the heart of an old European City.

The stone structures that line the pedestrian-only streets now house a wide variety of shops, services, and restaurants. This the perfect place to visit for strolling and meandering, and it's a truly lovely area year-round.

Tourists will find artisan boutiques, Québec-cuisine restaurants and bistros, art galleries, and a generous assortment of sweets shops offering everything from handcrafted fudge and nougat to a stylish Crêperie. Clothing boutiques here offer unique items for sale, from stores that offer only alpaca products to those showing the latest trends.

Photographers will also find interesting sites in the Quartier Petit-Champlain. The umbrella-covered lane (Rue du Cul de Sac) offers a colorful spectacle, as well as some respite from the sun or rain. While you're here, pop into La Fudgerie for a treat. Watch for the large trompe-l'oeil mural (Fresque du Petit-Champlain) at the far end of rue du Petit-Champlain, that gives a glimpse into the city's history.

Official site: http://www.quartierpetitchamplain.com

The Musée de la civilisation in Québec City is a three-part institution that delves into the many facets of human history and the establishment of French America, with the main museum located in Basse-Ville near the Old Port . Built to designs by the well-known architect Moshe Safdie, the central museum is of great architectural interest. The permanent collection draws from civilizations around the world, as well as exploring the Québec experience.

The Musée de l'Amérique Francophone (Museum of French America) is housed in the historic Séminaire de Québec in Upper Town . As the name suggests, the museum deals with all aspects of the history of the French in North America.

The Musée de la civilisation also has exhibits at Place Royale , where Samuel de Champlain founded Québec, the first permanent French settlement in North America.

Address: 85 Rue Dalhousie, Québec City

Official site: https://www.mcq.org/fr/

Constructed for the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1894, the grand Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is now one of the city's most prominent landmarks and esteemed hotels. This historic property can be seen from miles away and is especially impressive at night.

In front of the hotel, Terrasse Dufferin affords stunning views northwards to the Laurentians, and the Promenade des Gouverneurs leads southwards toward the Citadel and Plains of Abraham. This elevated vantage was the original site of Fort St.-Louis, the governor's residence in colonial times. Tourists can see the ruins underneath the promenade.

Château Frontenac is also historically significant for the Québec Conference in August 1943, where the Allied Powers - Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt, William L. M. King, Vice-Admiral Lord Mountbatten, the U.S. Chief of Staff, General George C. Marshall, and others - laid preparations for the D-Day landings in Normandy (June 6th 1944).

Address: 1 Rue des Carrières, Québec City

The spaciously laid out district, immediately southwest of the old Upper Town, is the seat of Québec's provincial government. The Parliament, completed in 1877 but later extended, could have been modeled on any number of Parisian public buildings. The Salle de l'Assemblée Nationale (National Assembly) and Salle du Conseil Législatif (Legislative Council) are open to the public. Both are fine old chambers, sumptuously furnished. Tickets should be obtained in advance.

Nearby, find the Grand Théâtre (a venue for plays, concerts, and symphony performances) as well as the large Palais des Congrès shopping and entertainment complex.

Address: 1045 Rue des Parlementaires, Québec City

Sainte Anne is the patron saint of Québec and is credited with many miracles of healing the sick and disabled. Located northeast of Québec in Beaupre, this stunning Catholic basilica is a destination for half a million pilgrims each year. The present-day church dates to 1926, but the first chapel was built here in the 17th century.

Another famous Catholic basilica is the Cathedrale Notre-Dame-de-Quebec, designed by the architect Baillairgé and completed in 1844. The interior of Notre-Dame de Québec is very impressive with a beautiful altar, Episcopal canopy, and stained-glass windows.

Address: 10018 Chemin Royale, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, Quebec City

Atop the Marie-Guyart Building, this 360-degree observatory provides more than just a bird's-eye view of the city from the 31st floor. Interactive exhibits introduce how Québec City developed and grew over the centuries, with a kids-height section designed just for little ones. The panorama extends beyond the old walled city to Levis, the St. Lawrence, and Île d'Orléans.

You can also get excellent views of the city from the Funicular , Québec City's solution to its extremely hilly geography. The funicular runs from Quartier Petit-Champlain in the lower town to Château Frontenac in upper town to save weary travelers from steep staircases. It has been transporting passengers at a staggering 45-degree angle since 1879, most recently updated in 1998 with glass-walled elevator carriages.

Address: 1037 de la Chevrotière, Québec City

Official site: http://www.observatoire-capitale.com

In the more than 300 years of its history, Québec has come to possess a variety of fortifications, all of which can be explored on an hour-long circular walk. The bastions, walls, towers, gates, and countless old cannon show how well the former French colony was protected. Completed in 1832, the four and a half kilometers of defensive ramparts on the west flank of the Old City were constructed of granite and sand, the only fortifications of this kind in North America. Numerous pieces of weaponry are a constant reminder of Québec's troubled past.

The 19th century Old Port (Vieux Port) in Québec is a national historic site and was once a hive of commercial activity centered on Bassin Louise. The 19th century is brought vividly to life again in the Center d'Interprétation and through the visually stunning projections and soundtrack of the Image Mill (Le Moulin à images) during summer. Also on the waterfront, the daily Marché du Vieux-Port is a public market with everything from local farm produce to bicycle rentals.

This ferry service provides a practical connection between Québec City and Levis, just across the St. Lawrence River. This quick crossing is also an inexpensive way to do some sightseeing with its views of the city skyline. If you hop aboard at dusk, you can see lights illuminate Château Frontenac , the Price Building, and other historic structures. The waterfront station is on the river in Lower Town , a short walk from Quartier Petit-Champlain and Place Royale .

Official site: https://traversiers.com/en/our-ferries/quebec-city-levis-ferry/schedule

Beyond the city walls, Grande Allée forms the spine of the city. The district near Parliament Hill is of greatest interest to tourists. Here, a bevy of restaurants, patios, and entertainment venues bring local and visiting crowds. The street's grandiose 19th-century buildings were once home to the city's upper class. Other Québec City attractions on Grande Allée include the Grande Allée Drill Hall, Battlefields Park, and the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec .

Québec's two-week winter celebration, Carnaval de Québec, is held amid the snow and ice of late January and early February. The first Carnaval was held in 1894, and since 1955, it has been an annual tradition led by a giant snowman mascot named Bonhomme Carnaval. His home base is a massive castle made of ice that is covered in original artwork each day by Québec's best graffiti artists.

Two snow sculpting competitions, the Canadian National and International Snow Sculpting Contest, are held at the Plains of Abraham , where you can watch the artists work and admire the results as they are judged. Traditional events include dogsled races; parades; dancing; sledding; skating; and even snow swimming, where some of the city's braver residents wear only bathing suits while playing in a snow hill.

Many of the things to do here are free and open to the public, while others require the purchase of a pass that allows entry to the rest of the events.

Official site: https://carnaval.qc.ca/

Spanning the St. Lawrence River at a slight narrows, the massive iron frame of the Pont de Québec became familiar to the world even before its completion. During construction, between 1899 and 1917, two serious accidents occurred in which more than 80 workmen lost their lives.

The Pierre Laporte Bridge twins the Pont de Québec. It is named for one of Québec's former Vice-Premier's, Pierre Laporte, who was killed during the famous October Crisis. At the time it was built, in 1970, it was the longest suspension bridge in Canada with a span of 1,040 meters.

Most handy to the tourist attractions are hotels in Old Quebec, between the Chateau Frontenac and the Citadel or in the lower Basse-Ville along the river. Shops, restaurants, cafés, and historic sights are concentrated in this fairly compact area, with a funicular to save climbing the steep hill that separates the upper and lower neighborhoods. Here are some highly rated hotels in Quebec's Old Town:

Luxury Hotels :

• A Quebec landmark at the epicenter of the Old Town and a prime tourist attraction itself, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac has a rich history, along with elegant public rooms and magnificent views.
• Almost directly below in the riverside Basse-Ville, Auberge Saint-Antoine displays historic artifacts in its stunning public areas and guest rooms, so it's like staying in a museum.
• Right next to the Parliament Building and gates to the Old Town, Hilton Quebec has an indoor/outdoor pool, spectacular views, and is a short walk from all the main attractions.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Art Deco elegance and style mark the Hotel Manoir Victoria , which also offers a pool and a superb restaurant in the pedestrianized zone of quaint streets and boutiques.
• In the historic Basse-Ville, Le Saint-Pierre Auberge Distinctive is a few steps from the Museum of Civilization.
• Near Parliament and the best shopping streets, right by the Old Town walls, Quebec City Marriott Downtown has a good fitness center.

Budget Hotels:

• Maison du Fort is one of a row of historic stone homes along Rue St. Genevieve that have been converted into small hotels.
• In the same neighborhood, on a picturesque street near the Citadel, Chateau Fleur de Lys - L'HOTEL gives guests warm personal attention.
• Only a block from the Citadel, Le Chateau de Pierre is in another converted stone house.
• Sightseeing by Bus : If you want to see some of the city's top attractions in a short amount of time, the Quebec City Sightseeing Tour is a great option. This two-hour excursion in a comfortable motorcoach takes you around the city's top sites, such as Old Québec, the Plains of Abraham, and Place Royale. Along the way, you'll hear stories about the city's culture and history from an experienced guide.
• Walking Tour : Exploring on foot is a great way to soak up the European feel of Old Québec City. The Quebec City Walking Tour takes you down the narrow streets of the Upper and Lower Town to see historic attractions such as the Fortifications of Québec, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, and the Citadelle of Québec. As you stroll down the narrow streets, the experienced guide will share fascinating stories about the city's past.
• Whale Watching Tour : Tourists who would like to have a change of pace will enjoy an educational Whale Watch where you will learn about the Charlevoix region's marine life. This full-day tour picks up and drops off passengers in downtown Québec City, with a stop in Laiterie Charlevoix on the trip to and from the port at Baie-Ste-Catherine. Guests have the choice of riding on a large observation boat (three-hour tour) or a smaller zodiac (2.5-hour tour), both of which include narration by a naturalist.
• Day Trip : A perfect way to visit some of the top sites just outside the city is the Half-Day Trip to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré from Quebec . This guided tour not only visits one of the province's most lovely churches but also the stunning Montmorency Falls, which is more than 50 percent taller than Niagara Falls. There are also several stops along the way, including treats like the Chez Marie bread oven and Chocolaterie de l'Ile d'Orléans and the Cuivres D'Art Albert Gilles museum.

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Quebec City   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Preserved Light Photography | Getty Images

18 Best Things To Do in Quebec City

If you're mesmerized by towering fortresses and lavish castles, you'll be more than satisfied just wandering the ancient cobblestone streets of  Old Québec . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the only walled city north of Mexico. Inside its

• All Things To Do

Old Québec (Vieux-Québec) Old Québec (Vieux-Québec) free

Clustered around the city's port on the banks of the St. Lawrence River are the quaint stone buildings and narrow, winding streets of Old Québec. This historic neighborhood (and UNESCO World Heritage Site) houses some of the city's most notable attractions, including the  Citadel , Quartier Petit-Champlain  and  Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral . Just make sure you give yourself plenty of time here: You'll find it difficult to resist popping into one of Old Québec's artisan shops or stopping to warm up with an aromatic cup of coffee at one of the many charming cafes.

Many Québec City visitors cite the neighborhood's atmosphere as the primary draw, with many saying it feels just like being in Europe thanks to its cobblestone streets, stunning architecture and friendly locals.

Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency) Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency)

Sitting about 9 miles northeast of Old Québec along the St. Lawrence River, Montmorency Falls Park attracts nature lovers and sightseers alike with its 272-foot waterfall. In case you can't imagine that, Montmorency Falls is one-and-a-half times taller than Niagara Falls. Although warmer summertime temperatures make a Montmorency visit much more comfortable, some travelers recommend stopping by in the winter to take in the natural beauty without the crowds.

There are a variety of activities at the park, including hiking trails, playgrounds, bike paths and a double zip line. From the top of the cliff, the zip line allows two people to simultaneously cross the cove of the falls (nearly 1,000 feet) to the La Baronne viewpoint. In the winter, snowshoeing and ice climbing are popular activities here. 

Terrasse Dufferin Terrasse Dufferin

Overlooking  Old Québec  from its perch just below the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Terrasse Dufferin offers spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River. Formerly a military fortification, this public boardwalk still houses historic cannons. The atmosphere has changed dramatically since Terrasse Dufferin's original construction in 1838; today – especially if you visit during the summer – you're bound to run into street performers and artists as you stroll along. Previous visitors also recommended spending some time here during the winter, when there's an ice toboggan to ride. 

To learn about the history of Terrasse Dufferin (and the rest of the fortifications of this Québec National Historic Site), consider tagging along on a guided tour. Tours are offered every day from mid-May to the beginning of September for around CA$19 (about $14). Tour times vary depending on the day and the language in which the tour is offered. 

Popular Tours

Half-Day Trip to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré from Quebec city

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Old Quebec City Food & Drink Tour / Day Experience

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Place-Royale Place-Royale free

To the unknowing eye, this small section in  Old Québec  may just seem like a pretty place to shop or to grab a cup of coffee. But it is so much more than that: Place-Royale is widely considered to be the birthplace of the French colony and French-North America. During the 17th and 18th centuries, this area of Old Québec acted as the French colony's center of business and industry, supporting a thriving marketplace and housing many wealthy merchants. While exploring this quaint area, you'll come across several notable tributes to its French Colonial past, including a striking bust of Louis XIV (one of France's most famous kings), the Église Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, the oldest stone church in North America, as well as the Fresque des Québécois, which illustrates 400 years of the city's history.

Recent visitors call the area charming and unique and recommend spending time wandering around to take in the sights.

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral free

Although the church itself has been rebuilt several times, the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral has stood on the same spot in the heart of  Old Québec  since 1647, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in North America. The exterior may seem a bit dull (especially compared to the  Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica  just northeast of town), but the bold neo-Baroque interior is breathtaking. Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Catherdal is gilded in shimmering gold leaf, historical religious paintings and treasures that date back to the French-colonial period.

Many recent travelers recommended visiting Notre-Dame during Mass, while others suggest stopping in as you stroll around Old Québec. During the summer months, there are volunteer guides available to answer any questions you may have, but you can also download a guide to your smartphone, according to recent visitors. Many were in awe of the cathedral, comparing its interiors to the ornate churches found throughout Europe.   

The Citadel (La Citadelle) The Citadel (La Citadelle)

Québec City's Citadel ( La Citadelle , in French) is the largest British-built fortress in North America; it took 30 years to construct. This military site has been active since 1850 when it housed British troops and the British artillery. Today, the Citadel is occupied by the only Francophone infantry contingent of the Regular Canadian Armed Forces – the Royal 22e Régiment – who have called this structure home since 1920.

You can learn more about the Canadian Armed Forces at the on-site museum, which contains a notable collection of military artifacts. And if you visit around 10 a.m. between the end of June and the first Monday of September, you can witness the Royal 22e Régiment band.

Battlefields Park (Parc des Champs-de-Bataille) Battlefields Park (Parc des Champs-de-Bataille) free

Anyone with an interest in colonial history should set aside some time to explore Battlefields Park. Sometimes referred to as the Plains of Abraham, this 267-acre strip of land just west of  Old Québec  witnessed the sealing of New France’s fate. The Battle of Québec (the pivotal moment of the French and Indian War when the French were forced to cede New France to Great Britain) took place here. 

Today, Battlefields Park is the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air. While you're sure to see a few historical elements (like the occasional ornamental cannon and defensive towers known as Martello Tower), make sure to pay specific attention to the manicured gardens – don't miss the stunning Joan of Arc Garden – and the riverfront vistas. Recent visitors said this is a great park to lounge and read a book, have a picnic or go for a walk. 

Quartier Petit Champlain Quartier Petit Champlain free

Even shopaholics can't escape this town's devotion to history. Sitting on the southeast edge of  Old Québec , the Quartier Petit Champlain is the oldest shopping district in North America and a great place to pick up souvenirs. Here, boutique shops and cozy cafes spill out of restored houses. And a fun fact: One of the neighborhood's houses belonged to Louis Jolliet, the French Canadian explorer credited with discovering the Mississippi River. To avoid the crowds, recent travelers recommend going either early in the day or in the evening. 

Make sure you save some time to climb the famous Escalier Casse-Cou (Breakneck Steps), or at least ride the funicular to the top to enjoy fantastic views of Old Québec. 

Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City

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Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre free

Sitting about 22 miles northeast of central Québec City, this stunning religious site in the small town of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré was first constructed in 1658; the current structure was built in the 1920s following a fire. The basilica honors Saint Anne, the patron saint of Québec. Pilgrims travel across the globe to pay their respects to Saint Anne and to benefit from her miraculous healing powers. Legend has it that one of the basilica's original builders began his work on crutches, and was able to walk without them upon the construction's completion.

Many visitors commemorate this miracle by leaving a crutch at the front door. While the outside of the basilica is a sight to behold, the inside is also breathtaking. The central vault is completely covered in mosaics, while 240 stained-glass windows drench the basilica with color. Recent visitors said this gorgeous church is a must-see landmark, and some recommend taking the time to sit and gaze up at the beautiful ceiling. 

Museum of Civilization (Musée de la Civilisation) Museum of Civilization (Musée de la Civilisation)

Overlooking the port from its seat in  Old Québec  – just a short walk from  Place-Royale  – the Museum of Civilization explores the history of human society in Québec and uses interactive exhibits to draw a connection between the past and the present. The museum’s permanent exhibition, “This is Our Story,” focuses on the Indigenous nations living in Quebec (there are more than 95,000 First Nations and Inuit people in Quebec). While you will find expected art and artifact collections, you'll also come across specialized exhibits devoted to a variety of topics, such as gender identity and local climate issues and solutions. 

Many recent visitors praised the museum's architecture and atmosphere, and noted that the exhibits are informative and suitable for families (especially kids in the 9 to 14 age range), though some remark that the museum is on the smaller side. 

Morrin Centre Morrin Centre

This fascinating historic site in  Old Québec  has worn many hats throughout its history. It was a military prison in the 18th century; a civilian prison from the early to mid-19th century and the city's first English-language college in the late 19th century. The Literary and Historical Society of Québec has also called this site home since the late 1800s. The Morrin Centre has played a crucial role in the development of several historical foundations, including the National Archives of Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. Today, the Morrin Centre acts primarily as an English-language library, granting English speakers access to books in a primarily francophone city. 

But the Morrin Centre offers visitors much more than literary stimulation. Guided, hourlong tours take travelers through the facility's history; you'll be able to explore the old jail cells and the Victorian library, which contains artifacts dating back to the 16th century. Recent visitors said the tour is absolutely worth it, as the guides are informative, engaging and eager to answer questions. Others said this is a great experience for all ages. Between the end of May and the beginning of September, guided tours are offered in English daily at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.  

National Museum of Fine Arts (Musée National des Beaux-Arts) National Museum of Fine Arts (Musée National des Beaux-Arts)

The National Museum of Fine Arts' perch in Battlefields Park  means that you can enjoy views of this beloved green space while you peruse the notable works housed within these galleries. The collection is spread across four separate buildings: the Grand Hall, the Charles-Baillairgé Building, the Gérard-Morisset Building and the Pierre Lassonde Building. The design and historical significance of the first three structures adds to the art-viewing experience. For example, the Charles-Baillairgé Building was the Québec City Prison from 1867 to 1970. You can still tour some of the cells that remain intact; the others have been transformed into galleries. The neoclassical Gérard-Morisset Building is the original museum building, home to many of the museum's works. The Pierre-Lassonde Building is a stunning gallery dedicated to modern-contemporary art.

Although previous visitors agree that the National Museum of Fine Arts can't compare to other art museums like the Louvre in Paris or the Met in New York, most say that Québec City's version is worth checking out. Several reviewers warned future visitors that the museum is undergoing renovations and that three of the buildings are closed, leaving just the contemporary art exhibitions open to the public. The museum expects the work to be complete by late 2025 or early 2026.

Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) at Village Vacances Valcartier Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) at Village Vacances Valcartier

Situated about 20 miles northeast of Old Québec near the Jacques-Cartier River, Village Vacances Valcartier lures families and travelers looking for a fun day trip or short getaway. The resort began as a toboggan run in 1963 and was the first to offer snow tubing in 1971. Water slides and pools were added in the 1980s, and today, Village Vacances Valcartier is a popular all-season resort.

During the summer, this recreational oasis offers a sprawling outdoor waterpark with pools, waterslides and lazy rivers. An enticing destination on hot days, many travelers find the waterpark is overcrowded and not worth the high entrance fee. Avoiding long weekends and visiting at the beginning of the week is best, and bringing snacks is recommended as the resort’s restaurants can be lackluster.

Amazing Old Quebec City Classique Walking Tour with 1 Funicular Ticket included

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Quebec City Bus Tours Quebec City Bus Tours

U.S. News Insider Tip: Use the red line hop-on, hop-off bus operated by Unitours to gain an understanding of where everything is located, and to visit places that you may not want to travel to on foot. – Pamela MacNaughtan

From the cobblestone streets of Old Québec and religious and military historic sites to the Plains of Abraham, Montmorency Falls and wineries, bus tours offer compelling overviews of the city. In Québec City, Unitours (formerly Tours Vieux Québec) is the premier bus tour company within the city. The routes begin near Château Frontenac, and the number of stops varies depending on the bus and tour duration. See the European architecture of Old Québec, local neighborhood streets, museums and historic sites. The red line is a double-decker hop-on, hop-off bus tour with 15 stops throughout the city. The prerecorded audio commentary offers a few insights into the city’s history, however, some travelers find it lacking in substance. The yellow line, a one-hour express tour, has guaranteed top-deck seats and the same commentary.

Île d’Orléans Île d’Orléans free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Île d’Orléans is a popular destination and traffic can be intense in summer. For the best experience, go in the morning. Plan for an early lunch to avoid crowds, and be sure to stop at a farmstand to buy fresh strawberries. – Pamela MacNaughtan

Juicy strawberries and rich amber-colored maple syrup are the signatures of Île d’Orléans, an island just 10.5 miles from downtown Québec City. Colonized by the French in the 17th century, the island was home to the Huron Nation who lived, hunted and fished here. The French divided the land using the seigneurial system; long skinny tracts of land. Chemin Royal, the 42-mile road that encircles the island, was completed in 1744 and continues to be the island’s main road today.

Saint-Roch Saint-Roch

U.S. News Insider Tip: Some of the city’s best cafes, restaurants and bars can be found here, including award-winners L'Affaire est ketchup, Battuto, and JJacques. A highlight of the area is Korrigane Brasserie Artisanale, a woman-owned microbrewery. – Pamela MacNaughtan

Tucked away from the bustling streets of Old Québec , which can be bloated with travelers in high season, is the artsy neighborhood of Saint-Roch. Some travelers have compared it to New York’s Brooklyn or Williamsburg, with its grittiness and eclectic atmosphere. This was a commercial artery in the city in the 1960s, and became a blue-collar neighborhood as businesses moved out to other areas of the city. Today, Saint-Roch has transformed into a trendy area popular with young artists and professionals. Modern shimmering condo buildings are surrounded by a mix of heritage residential buildings.

Jacques-Cartier National Park Jacques-Cartier National Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don’t have a car? Quatre Natures provides a daily shuttle service from Old Québec to Jacques-Cartier National Park. It costs CA$39.90 (roughly $29) for a round-trip ride, which includes your park entrance ticket. – Pamela MacNaughtan

A roughly 30-mile drive north of Québec City is the lush mountainous oasis of Jacques-Cartier National Park. Its 67,000 square miles features a deep-cut glacial valley and around 62 miles of hiking trails, with the Jacques-Cartier River flowing through its length. The park takes up the southernmost lands of the Laurentides Wildlife Reserve, making it an excellent place for wildlife watching.

Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville free

In the heart of Upper-Town between Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral and City Hall is Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville. This small public square was home to a marketplace for local farmers until 1875. Its name came about after the completion of City Hall, and this square has been used as a gathering place ever since. Today, Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville also includes the garden and terrace behind City Hall.

Children and adults dance through the programmable fountain as water jets from the ground, while others stretch out on the grass for a mid-afternoon snooze. Chairs and tables adorn both squares, making them a charming place to enjoy a picnic of wine, local beer and Québec terroir. Travelers have remarked they love the peacefulness of Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville and its close proximity to landmarks and restaurants in Old Québec .

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