🗺️ 🇨🇦 🏰 This edition of Postmarked launches a series of destination guides — a detailed look at a single place, with curated recommendations and practical tips. These resources are intended to help you plan memorable, meaningful travel. They will be archived in a “Guides” section of my Substack, so you can revisit them anytime. Happy travels!
Bonjour from Quebec City,
There are places that are simply unlike anywhere else and Quebec City is one of them. Cobblestone streets, a mix of French Colonial and British architecture, and a medieval wall fortifying much of the old city, create a unique charm and living history. And standing at the center of it all — a Chateau worthy of Cinderella. It’s one of my favorite small cities: walkable, delicious and brimming with history, so I was thrilled to visit again in June 2025.
This guide will help you plan your own visit to Quebec City. I share when to go, where to stay, delicious cuisine, and what to see and do. I’ve also included some ideas for guided tours.
🎿FUN FACT: I traveled to Quebec City for school ski trips as a teenager. I have wonderful memories of days on the snowy slopes of Mont Sainte Anne, and fun with friends exploring the city.
Québec City is a year-round destination, with each season offering something different. Spring is quieter with fewer tourists. Temps can remain chilly through April; May offers better weather. Summer —June through August — is the high season with pleasant weather and festivals. It is also the busiest time. Fall brings crisp weather, great for outdoor exploring. October is the height of the stunning fall foliage. Winter transforms the city with snow, holiday lights, and the famous Winter Carnival (held late January or early February) and Ice Hotel.
💡TIP: For fewer crowds and lower prices, visit in spring or fall.
I recommend staying in Old Quebec, the historic heart of the city, especially for a first visit. From boutique inns to landmark luxury hotels these are my suggested hotels:
Auberge Saint-Antoine
I loved my recent stay at this luxury boutique hotel that blends contemporary elegance with centuries of history. It’s set on an archaeological site in the Old Port and offers exceptional service and an elegant ambiance. This property is part of Relais & Chateaux. It’s a favorite for design lovers and history buffs alike, located in the heart of lower town near attractions and restaurants.
Fairmont Château Frontenac
The iconic grand dame of Quebec City, built in 1893 by the Canadian Pacific Railway in the Chateauesque style popular at the time. The hotel was the idea of the William Van Horne, president of the Canadian Pacific Railway, who wanted to encourage luxury train travel with an offer of exceptional hotel stays. Request a river view room for wonderful views.
💡TIP: If you don’t stay you can dine here instead. For dinner or Sunday brunch try the stunning Champlain Restaurant, or come for afternoon tea in the beautiful Place Dufferin Restaurant. Reserve Ahead.
Auberge Place d’Armes
Intimate and charming, in the heart of Old Quebec, this 3-star auberge is cozy, and offers a great location and rooms filled with character. The halls and stairs are a little tired and the front desk staff appear intermittently. But I was happy with my stay here in room 20. No elevator!
Hilton Quebec
Modern and convenient, and with some of the best panoramic views over the city. A solid choice just outside the old city walls, and can offer good value in high season.
💡 Tip: Book early if you're visiting in summer — rooms in Old Quebec fill up fast, especially during festivals.
Quebec City’s culinary scene is exceptional for a small city, and recent accolades include Michelin-star recognition. Expect an emphasis on French food and Quebecois food, especially in the old city. These are my favorite places to savor the city:
Chez Rioux & Pettigrew ($$$)
Inventive, local, and vibrant. Housed in an old general store, the menu changes frequently and is highly creative, but not fussy. I dined here alone and the staff couldn’t have been nicer, even complimenting me on my French. 😊
Chez Muffy (at Auberge Saint-Antoine hotel) ()
A cozy, stone-walled dining room with seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine and a fantastic wine list. Perfect for a romantic evening or a solo meal with a glass of wine. They have a delicious breakfast as well. Reserve ahead!
La Buchette ($$)
Casual and brimming with Quebecois charm and sugar-shack flavor. Ideal for dining with kids or a budget-friendly lunch or dinner. A great place to try traditional favorites. Nice patio.
Le Clan ($−$$)
Chef Stéphane Modat’s homage to Quebec terroir and his love of fishing and hunting. A refined culinary adventure — if you’re a foodie, this is a great splurge meal.
Buvette Scott ($$)
Trendy, intimate, and delicious. Small plates allow you to try multiple seasonal dishes, and natural wines. I had a delish Quebec wine here as well.
Buffet de l'Antiquaire ($)
Traditional Quebecois cuisine in a no-frills classic. Try the poutine. Ideal for breakfast and lunch. It has a shaded terrace.
💡 Local Flavor: When in Quebec City, try a dish with duck — a regional specialty — and keep an eye out for anything involving birch syrup. Other favorites are poutine, tourtière and pea soup.
🥬 Vegan-Friendly: Quebec has lots of options for plant-based diners: Vegan Quebec.
Explore the Old City (Vieux-Québec)
A UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Explore the upper and lower towns of “New France”, ride the funicular, and wander Place Royale — in 1608 Samuel de Champlain built what became the first permanent French settlement in North America and the oldest stone church in North America still stands here. Admire the historic Chateau Frontenac Hotel from the Dufferin Terrace, where summer brings performers and more. See the city walls (you can walk atop part of it) and enter or exit the city through one of the old city gates such as the Saint Louis Gate.
Musée de la Civilisation
Thoughtful and beautifully curated exhibitions about Quebec’s Indigenous people, contemporary society, and more. Ideal for a deeper dive into Quebec’s history and culture.
La Citadelle de Québec
A star-shaped fortress that offers history, changing of the guard ceremonies, and terrific views. Take the guided tour for a more in-depth visit, and a peek into Canada's military history.
Plains of Abraham
Explore the site of the famous Battle of Quebec in 1759, when Canada’s fate was written when the French lost the city to the British. Go on a nice day.
Wendat Nation
Just 30 minites from Old Québec City, you’ll find the Huron-Wendat Indigenous community, located near their former village of Stadacona. Experience First Nation song and dance concerts. Visit local shops, enjoy a meal, meet locals such as storyteller Dominic Ste-Marie. Explore more at Indigenous Quebec - Wendat.
Historical Walking Tour
A walking tour that dives deep into the city's past, with knowledgable, engaging guides. The same company also offers food tours. Suggested: Old Quebec City Walking Tour: HQ Services Touristiques.
Tuque & Bicycle E-Bike Tour
Explore beyond the old walls on two wheels — this guided e-bike ride is scenic, fun, and perfect for travelers who want to see a lot in a short time.
Croisières AML
See Quebec City from the water on a Saint Lawrence River cruise. A lovely way to relax and take in views of the Château Frontenac and city skyline.
At dusk, follow a forest path into a luminous world created by the Huron-Wendat Indigenous Nation. Onhwa’ Lumina is a sensory journey of lights, sound, and Indigenous storytelling — immersive, moving, and unlike anything else in Quebec City. It was among my favorite experiences!
🎟️ Book your tickets online and wear good walking shoes and bug spray. It’s about a 30-minute drive from downtown.
Just 20 minutes from the city, this pastoral island is full of wineries and cideries, farms where you can pick fruit, and panoramic views of the river and rolling hills beyond. Take a self-guided drive, or hop on a guided tour by e-bike or minibus. Don’t leave without sampling the blackcurrant products at Cassis Monna & Filles.
Adventure awaits a 15 minute-drive from old Quebec at the Montmorency Falls. Hop a funicular or climb the long steps, zipline or admire the falls from the lodge
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