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Notre Dame De Québec Basilica Cathedral

Notre Dame De Québec Basilica Cathedral

Notre Dame De Québec Basilica Cathedral
4.5
Religious SitesChurches & Cathedrals
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
About
This famous 17th-century cathedral has been restored several times but still provides visitors with an ambiance of centuries past.
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Address
Neighbourhood: Downtown Quebec City
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See what travellers are saying
  • TheLeongOhana
    United States7,728 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Walked Through The Holy Door
    This beautiful church was our first stop in Quebec. The Holy Door was the only one outside of Europe and available to walk through until the end of 2024. It was a very heavy door! It was best to enter the church via the Holy Door since it had its own separate approach from the street. However, if there would not be anyone to stop you if someone decided to exit via the Holy Door. Inside was a very ornate altar and beautiful decor. There was also a detailed exhibition about St Francis De Laval, the first bishop of Quebec. I tried to use the Balado Discovery app during the self guided tour but it did not work all the time.
    Visited April 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written April 19, 2024
  • Carlos L.
    Palm Desert, California1,912 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Pious amazing cathedral with beautiful architecture and purplish lightening!
    Amazing cathedral! We have been to many cathedrals but the ceiling/vault (?_) had a beautiful purplish tint and imparted it such an amazing pious quality that made you truly appreciate that you were in a sacred space. Really impressed my wife and I. Amazing place to visit.
    Visited April 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written April 21, 2024
  • sanju_222323
    New Jersey17,720 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    It stands on the site of the first mission chapel of New France, built in 1647
    The basilica has a rich history. It stands on the site of the first mission chapel of New France, built in 1647, and the first parish church of New France, founded in 1664. The original structure was flattened in the Siege of Quebec in 1759. The rebuilt church stood until 1922 when it was ravaged by fire. What we see today was rebuilt after the fire as close as possible to the original. It is gilded in shimmering gold leaf, historical religious paintings, and treasures that date back to the French colonial period. There is a chapel in the cathedral devoted to St. François de Laval, the first bishop of Quebec, canonized in 2014 by Pope Francis. The interior decorations of the church are quite impressive. Designed in the Rococo style, the ceilings are extremely high, and everything appears to be dripping in gold. There are magnificent stained-glass windows lining the outer walls. One of the most remarkable pieces inside the Cathedral is the Baldacchino, a brilliant golden sculpture over the altar at the front. You can also see various works of art and pieces of archives with splendid interior decoration as a background. Also, don't forget about the holy Door. Located in the Notre Dame Basilica-Cathedral, the Holy Door of Québec City is one of seven such doors worldwide, and the only one to be found outside Europe. Restroom: there are many restrooms in nearby areas, one is beside the Bus stop, and another is in the Tourist information center.
    Visited June 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written July 10, 2024
  • Leigh
    Pembroke, Canada93 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Gorgeous and free to enter
    The church is free to enter and is located in Old Quebec City. You can stop in and look around while you are out walking and taking in the sights. We went through the Holy Door, which is a bit hidden out of the way at the side. There is no door handle, so you put your hand on the door and push to enter. The church is very beautiful inside—very fancy and ornate. It's quite the contrast from the Anglican church located nearby. You can tell which church has the $$$. There are several exhibits in the church where you can read and learn the history.
    Visited July 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written July 22, 2024
  • 🥳 🎉 🥳 Keep Life Simple 🥳🎉🥳
    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania131,346 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful
    Beautiful Basilica, built in the 1600, burial place of some famous people in the history of the church and Quebec, went to confession, they have a priest there and can confess on your time, very convenient. Can light candles for your loved 😍 ones. Spent time looking at the architecture and of course said some prayers.
    Visited July 2024
    Travelled solo
    Written August 6, 2024
  • PBPG
    Yorkshire, United Kingdom8,490 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fabulous
    A fabulous building in the centre of Quebec. Free to enter there is some great stained glass and a huge organ to look at. No parking anywhere but so many things in the area are all in walking distance, so grab a cab to the middle and stroll around
    Visited September 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written September 11, 2024
  • Cris H
    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania709 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Must see!
    Another beautiful church. Truly a must see if you are in the area. The design is stunning and taking 30 minutes in here to explore is well worth it. Great place to stop and say a little prayer as well if you have the time.
    Visited September 2024
    Travelled solo
    Written September 29, 2024
  • Eileen108
    Mount Shasta, California5,613 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Holy Door is Open! 2024-2025
    I had a wonderful experience here! This is where my ancestors worshipped and it was touching to be here. I was very grateful to a kind volunteer who gave me the directions on how to go through the Holy Door, open special early. Unfortunately the crypt was not open as it was still winter, which was disappointing.
    Visited April 2024
    Travelled solo
    Written October 12, 2024
  • BigJeff L
    2,114 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Magnificent!!
    Situated in the very heart of Old Québec, Notre-Dame de Québec Cathedral-Basilica is open throughout the year. Recognized as one of Québec and Canada’s historic monuments, it is located in the historic quarter of Old Québec, designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The centrepiece of the interior decor is the imposing gold-leaf canopy overhanging the choir and supported by sculpted angels. Other treasures include the sanctuary lamp; a gift from Louis XIV; the stained glass imported from Munich and Paris, and the magnificent organ from the prestigious House of Casavant. Not widely known is that there are more than 900 tombs in the crypt, including those of Québec bishops and archbishops - during summer, it’s possible to take guided tours of the basilica crypt. In 2014 the cathedral celebrated its 350th anniversary. As part of the celebrations, a holy door was constructed—the second outside Europe and only the eighth in the world. It goes without saying that I would just check official church service times if you want to see everything, as not to disturb anyone. Do not worry about finding it as it literally is in the heart of the old historic quarter.
    Visited October 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written October 18, 2024
  • History73Fan
    New England73 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A wonderful spot
    A fabulous stop. We ended up visiting 3 times during our visit to OQC. Even if you are not Catholic, the art and history is wonderful. If you are Catholic this basilica is a place to offer some prayers and light some candles. Thankful for this basilica. In response to an earlier review. The basilica is not closing. The Holy door is being sealed and can only be reopened by the Pope.
    Visited December 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written December 8, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles2,653 reviews
Excellent
1,606
Very good
837
Average
193
Poor
15
Terrible
2

Jae W. Lee
Long Island, NY5,872 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2019
During our “10-Day Canada and New England” cruise aboard Caribbean Princess ship last October, our ship arrived at her final destination, Quebec City. From the Quebec’s Cruise Terminal, we took a taxi to Notre-Dame de Québec Cathedral-Basilica in Upper Town. This basilica is a National Historic Site of Canada, and is located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic District of Old Québec. This basilica is known to have the only “Holy Door” in the Americas. When we stood outside the basilica looking at its façade, the basilica did not look impressive, because its exterior was partially obstructed by a construction crane and coverings. But when we entered the basilica, we were pleasantly surprised at the glorious nave with ornate decors, stained glass windows and amazing high altar area. The altar area was decorated with beautiful golden arches supported by angels. Atop the golden arches was the floating Jesus with a cross, and the high altar area was illuminated with warm golden light like sunrise. The ornate pulpit and the beautiful pipe organ enhanced the beauty of the nave. The cathedral ceiling, walls and columns were all in light color, emanating warm and comforting feel. This beautiful and inspiring basilica is a must visit landmark of Quebec.
Written September 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

JukeboxMama
Ontario191 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2021
The church was well laid out for anyone with concerns about Covid. You walked through following the arrows and staff were quick to remind folks to sanitize their hands.
The church itself is quite beautiful and the architecture is breathtaking at times. There is also a really great museum inside that is based on the history of the church in the area.
I also appreciated that there were several quiet spots set aside to pray and meet with priests for prayer and religious guidance if this was what you are seeking.
Photographs without flash were allowed and encouraged. A very enjoyable experience.
Written August 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

SuzyQu15
Brooklyn, NY1,606 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2022 • Couples
This is said to be the oldest church in Canada founded in the 1600’s. It has been built and rebuilt several times over the years due to fire, and the architecture is beautiful. Apparently there is a crypt below the church housing the remains of many historic figures. Unfortunately we had not checked the hours before we went and closing time of 3 p.m. on a weekday was rapidly approaching. I would definitely go back the next time in Quebec City. You can take a self guided tour by downloading the information.
Written November 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

KHarrington54
Oakville, Canada380 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2022 • Friends
Gorgeous Catholic Basilica in the heart of Old Quebec City. It has beautiful stained glass windows and the altar and ceiling facade are spectacular. It was originally built in 1647 but has burned down twice and been rebuilt- the last time in 1922. Definitely a must see. There is no fee to enter but you are encouraged to light a candle in memory or in honour or just to pray. The small candles are $2, large are $5.
Written September 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Tom M
Los Angeles, CA41 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2022
Came here in early November, not exactly the height of tourist season. It allowed me to spend some quiet times in this beautiful church without being disturbed by tours.
However, I would definitely recommend it any time of the year!
Written December 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Hsteinmiller
Yorktown, VA961 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2022 • Solo
This 300+ year old cathedral still plays a large role in the lives of Québec's Catholic community. Services are held regularly, and I got a glimpse of the interior whilst on a guided tour. It is amazingly beautiful, and the sanctity of the place is palpable. Well worth the visit.
Written July 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

TERRAvelista
London, UK18,514 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2023 • Family
Gorgeous cathedral and free to access (unlike Notre Dame in Montreal where there is an entry fee of 18 CAD) with the lines you normally find in more northern European cathedrals as opposed of the Portuguese or some Spanish cathedrals for example.

I liked it's simplicity with only some golden adornments around the altar area besides the usual stained glass typically found here.

Quiet, despite being located in the busy part of the old Quebec town and just beautiful.
Written October 29, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

eVe 🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬
Singapore, Singapore1,527 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2023 • Couples
The interior of the Notre-Dame De Québec Basilica is stunning. It was first full day in Québec City and we were doing an orientation tour of Old Québec. After checking out the icon Château Frontenac, we went into the Cathedral and it was so beautiful - the architecture, the stained glass windows. We unexpectedly stumbled upon The Holy Door and I was thankful with the grace.

Not to miss!!
Written September 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

rlmptl
Lloydminster, Canada1,273 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2021
Easy to find walking distance from the Chateau ..was not open on a Saturday but got to visit from 12 to 4 on a Sunday. make sure you take in the movie theatre talk at the back about the priest Laval. It tells all about his efforts to expand the church and really help people as a missionary. It was soooo interesting. The Museum for the basilica was closed. Very beautiful for sure we got spoiled however seeing the Basilica St Anne to Beaupre which is much grander. make sure to check that one out too
Written October 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

SamreenAhsanCanada
Toronto, Canada838 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2022 • Family
Such a beautiful church with lots of history. The altar is very beautiful. A must see place. You can also see Bishop Laval final resting place. The church has a museum behind the altar for New France history
Written September 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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