Québec City
a beautiful weekend in
If you've been itching for a trip with some European flare, Québec City is the best place to visit! Nestled along the St. Lawrence River, this Canadian gem is a heady mix of old-world charm and contemporary flair. Québec City (often simply referred to as Québec) is the capital city of the Canadian province of Québec. It's known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. I recently visited in July and had the most incredible time exploring all the sights, eating all the delicious food and learning all about its history.
How to get here:
Québec City is located in the province of Québec, in eastern Canada. Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) is the primary airport serving the region. It offers flights to and from many major cities in Canada, the U.S., and some international destinations. Once you land, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use public transportation to get to the city center. The airport is located 20-30 minutes from Old-Québec.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Québec City depends on your interests and what type of experience you're seeking. Here's a seasonal breakdown:
Summer: This is the peak tourist season. Many outdoor festivals occur during these months, including the Festival d'été de Québec, a renowned music festival. Streets come alive with buskers, outdoor cafes, and tourists.
Fall: A wonderful time for scenic drives. It's also a less crowded time to explore the historic Old Québec. The best season also to admire the beautiful fall foliage. Québec City area has a stunning nature close by such as : Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier, Côte-de-Beaupré and Île d'Orléans.
Winter: In November, the city's Christmas markets and festive lights make it a magical place during the holiday season. The Québec Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec) in February is a major draw. Activities like ice skating at Place d’Youville and visiting the Ice Hotel are popular.
Spring: Beautiful time of year to visit! As the snow melts, outdoor activities become more accessible.
Time needed: I would recommend 3-5 days!
Best things to do:
Old Québec (Vieux-Québec):
-
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: Iconic and the most photographed hotel in the world, even if you don't stay here, it's worth a visit for its grandeur.
-
Quartier Petit Champlain: A charming neighborhood known for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and cafes.
-
Walk the City Walls: Québec is the only walled city north of Mexico. Take a stroll on the ramparts for panoramic views.
La Citadelle de Québec : This active military fortification offers guided tours, providing insight into Canadian military history and offers an impressive view of the St. Lawrence River.
Strøm Spa Nordique is one of the most renowned wellness retreats in the Québec region, known for its upscale amenities and serene environments that embody the Nordic spa philosophy.
Montmorency Falls: Taller than Niagara Falls, this natural wonder is located just a short drive from the city. You can take a cable car, climb the staircase, or walk across a suspension bridge for stunning views.
The Morrin Centre in Québec City is a cultural and historical site of significant importance. One of the most charming features of the Morrin Centre is its Victorian library, which is home to more than 25,000 English-language titles. This library is the only remaining English-language library in the old city.
Where to stay: Québec City boasts a wide range of hotels to cater to various budgets and tastes, from luxurious establishments to quaint bed and breakfasts. Here are some hotel recommendations spanning different categories:
-
Luxury:
-
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: Arguably the most iconic hotel in Québec City, this historic castle-like hotel overlooks the St. Lawrence River.
-
Auberge Saint-Antoine: Located in the heart of the Old Port, this luxurious boutique hotel combines contemporary design with artifacts that date back to the 17th century. It's known for its impeccable service, cozy rooms, and gourmet restaurant.
-
-
Mid-Range:
-
Hotel Manoir Victoria: Situated within the walls of Old Québec, this hotel offers modern amenities in a classic setting. It's close to several major attractions and has an on-site spa and restaurant. I stayed here and absolutely loved my stay and would highly recommend it!
-
Le Monastère des Augustines: This unique wellness retreat is part of a restored monastery. Guests can stay in restored nun's quarters and partake in holistic health offerings.
-
Hôtel Château Laurier Québec: Located between Old Québec and the Plains of Abraham, this hotel offers value for money with comfortable rooms and amenities like an indoor pool.
Where to eat in Quebec City
Québec City boasts a rich culinary scene, influenced by its French heritage but also showcasing modern and diverse flavors.
La Bûche: This restaurant serves up classic Québécois comfort food in a fun, rustic atmosphere. Think poutine, meat pies, and baked beans.
Chez Boulay - Bistro Boréal: This bistro offers dishes inspired by Nordic flavors, using ingredients from the northern climes of Québec.
Paillard: A bustling bakery in Old Québec where you can enjoy croissants, pastries, sandwiches, and soups.
L'Orygine:The restaurant emphasizes a farm-to-table approach, serving dishes crafted from local, organic ingredients. The menu is a reflection of Québec's diverse seasons and the bounty they bring.
Overall, we absolutely loved our time in Québec City and would love to revisit to see what it is like during different times of the year. Hope you enjoyed my recap and enjoy your visit if you do come!
