Summary of Quebec City Travel Tips
Welcome to Quebec City
Nestled in the hills along the St. Lawrence River, Quebec’s capital city proudly holds a UNESCO World Heritage designation and features one of the finest old city sections, Old Quebec. This city offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, and understanding how to save money during your visit can enhance your experience. Here are some valuable budget travel notes about Quebec City.
When to Visit
Quebec City is known for hosting a renowned winter carnival; however, visitors should be prepared for significant snowfall if they choose to visit during winter. The city receives an average of about 10 feet of snow each year, and it can be much more during peak winters. Summer months bring pleasant weather and increased tourist traffic, potentially resulting in longer lines and “no vacancy” signs. Conversely, fall may serve as the best season to explore, with vibrant leaf colors and wonderfully cool temperatures.
Quebec City Basics
The word Quebec translates to “place where the river narrows.” The breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence from the city’s boardwalk support this observation. While high-rises mark the financial center of the city, the fortified walls of Old Quebec (Vieux-Quebec in French) lie in between modern downtown and the river. These walls are notable as the only existing fortified walls north of Mexico on the North American continent. The Plains of Abraham, now a city park, played a significant historical role, hosting a famous battleground where the British defeated the French in 1759.
Where to Eat
Visitors to Quebec City can enjoy a budget-friendly summer picnic with freshly baked bread, cheese, and ready-made sandwiches available at various locations. Restaurants along Rue Saint-Jean cater to tourists without exorbitant prices. Two noteworthy, moderately-priced dining options are Cafe Ciccio—located two blocks uphill from Saint-Jean on Rue de Claire-Fontaine—and Crêperie-bistro Le Billig—on Saint-Jean near Rue Scott. Both offer delicious meals for approximately $20 CAD per person.
Getting Around
Old Quebec is compact and easily explored on foot. However, to visit Montmorency Falls or Ile D’Orleans, either a rental car or familiarity with public transport is essential. Bus no. 800 provides convenient access to the falls for $2 CAD. Although taxi fares to Jean Lesage International Airport can be expensive, VIA rail services operate from the city’s heart, within close range of popular tourist areas.
Where to Stay
Various major chain hotels can be found along the perimeter of the walled city. Given the services and outstanding views offered, four-star establishments like the Palace Royal typically range between $150-$200 CAD per night. For budget-conscious travelers, small two-star or three-star accommodations are available nearby historic sites for under $100 per night.
Day Trips
Montmorency Falls, located a short drive from Quebec City, presents an exciting excursion for visitors. The falls surpass Niagara in height and offer various vantage points for viewing. Adventurous visitors can take stairways to an observation platform or utilize a cable car. Observing the falls from Ile d’Orleans—a large island featuring expansive estates, wineries, farms, and orchards—also enhances the experience. However, significant traffic backlogs often occur during the fall foliage season due to the island’s limited access.
More Quebec City Tips
- Plan to watch the Changing of the Guard at La Citadelle de Quebec. This impressive ceremony occurs daily at 10 a.m. from June 24 until early September. Modeled after the ceremony at Buckingham Palace, this tradition has been celebrated since 1928 (with interruptions during WWII). The ceremony lasts approximately 35 minutes and is included with admission to the Citadelle ($16 CAD), well worth your visit.
- Consider getting the Quebec City Discount Passport. This option allows you to customize a city pass online with three to ten activities, helping you save on admission costs. Additionally, the pass includes free ferry rides across the St. Lawrence.
- Experience the ferry boats, which travel frequently between the old city and the town of Levis across the river. This 10-minute ride serves as a relaxing break after walking, providing excellent photo opportunities. If you don’t use the passport, a round-trip ticket costs around $7 CAD.
- Explore the Artist Alleys. While strolling through Old Quebec, visitors will encounter numerous artists selling their original works and often willing to discuss their craft. This delightful diversion could lead to a unique souvenir of your visit.
- Visit Battlefields Park. A free attraction, also recognized as the Plains of Abraham, where British and French forces clashed in 1759 for regional control. Even for those less interested in history, the stunning transformation of this site into a beautiful city park is worthy of exploration.
- Join Le Festival d’ete de Quebec. This summer concert series typically occurs in July, featuring outdoor stages set up in strategic locations throughout the city. Certain events are free of charge.
