Old Quebec
Old Quebec
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Top ways to experience Old Quebec
The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Downtown Quebec City
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Best nearby
Restaurants
729 within 5 kms
Attractions
282 within 10 kms
See what travellers are saying
- Marcel DMountain Iron, Minnesota109 contributionsA Week in the Old CiteWe spent a week exploring the old part of the city with daily walks, shopping, dinners, lunch, and drinks with our teenagers and found plenty to do (despite the weather). There are always people on the street after 8 am into the evening and although not a bustling party town, you feel like the city is alive. You can ice skate right out side the gates but all other winter activities are harder to come by when it is is colder than normal. We are glad we came!Visited December 2022Written December 26, 2022
- rosepetal1954Medicine Hat, Canada10 contributionsLovely visitWe visited Quebec city , staying at the Chateau Bellevue in the heart of old Quebec. So many lovely shops and restaurants to choose from. A bit on the pricey side though. Lots of attractions within walking distance.Visited September 2022Written December 28, 2022
- Denis DOntario's Thousand Islands, Canada22 contributionsMid winter get awayAbsolutely one of the best places in Eastern North America to get away for 3 or 4 days, there is so much to see and do in the Old Quebec city district that you certainly will not get bored. While there are some hills to climb if you take your time and stop and shop in the quant little shops scattered throughout the old town you don't notice it. My wife and I who are both over 75 and typically recorded on our fitness watches over 15,000 steps a day and climbed equivalent to between 40 to 60 flights of stairs. The best part of Old Quebec is the nice little French restaurants, three of our favourite are; ECHAUDE for dinner, Le lapin Saute for lunch, and Au Petit Coin Breton Creperic for breakfast. We try to get to Quebec city at least once every year or two and always visit these establishments at least once every time we are there.Visited January 2023Written January 9, 2023
- Marc HBrunswick Heads, Australia96 contributionsVisit Vieux Quebec away from the tourist seasonLuckily Quebec has preserved its old city including its walls - lovely ambience that has not been lost despite the abundance of tourist shops in the old city. Luckily we were here in winter with NO cruise ships in town so crowds were minimal. We heard that even the locals dread the cruise ship season when the crowds can be unbearableVisited January 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten January 21, 2023
- Neil D155 contributionsGorgeous Quebec CityDefinitely worth a visit. Old, quaint, European, and beautiful. Try and get a hotel close to the old city and be prepared to walk to enjoy the scenery. Try and learn a few French phrases, but they know most tourists only speak Anglais.Visited March 2022Written January 25, 2023
- solostar25Calgary, Canada388 contributionsStunningWhile on a drive across the country we drove into Old Quebec. Beautiful to see, so European. We were not physically able to walk very much due to some medical issues at the time of our visit so we were pleasantly surprised by how much you could see by driving your car. Some spots you couldn't get to because of types of events in the area but we were impressed. Would love to return and spend a couple of nights in one of the hotels in Old Quebec.Visited July 2022Written February 2, 2023
- ozartSalmon Arm, Canada262 contributionsLovelyWhat a great city, we felt like we were having a European trip. Lots to see and do, we went in October so it was quite cold but clear. Lots of walking and hill climbing so you need to be able to get around. We spent a week and could have stayed longer, a definite "do again"Visited October 2022Written February 6, 2023
- Barbara10 contributionsBeautiful city in the winterUntil after Winter Carnival in mid-February the city is still decorated for Christmas. Loads of shopping and restaurants. The toboggan hill is wonderful. Because it’s on a large hill you get a pretty terrific workout walking around townVisited February 2023Written February 11, 2023
- Loretta H6 contributionsGreat March Break GetawayWe went me, my adult daughter and sister. We had a superb time. The horse carriage ride in Old Quebec was amazing and the Food and drinks were great. I can’t wait to go back in July with my husband to celebrate our anniversary.Visited March 2023Travelled with friendsWritten March 11, 2023
- 1francophileKitchener, Canada1,654 contributionsPicturesque Old City in a commercial setting!Old Quebec has it all from old style design, long history and culture that is quite enjoyable and edifying for the discerning traveler! However, it’s commerciality aspect with a constant flow of people on the narrow streets, who are seemingly only concerned with themselves or taking selfies or pictures in front of landmarks, is a bit irritating at times. My recommendation to the those considering traveling to this wonderful destination, is to go on a walking tour to learn and fully appreciate the experience, patronize the merchants, visit galleries and museums to have a full and enriching experience. I wrote a glowing review of our outstanding experience with the Tours Voir Quebec community recently for your information. Also, when I submitted my review of the Chateau, if was remiss in mentioning the shops on the lobby level including one owned and operated by a fine artist named Annie Pelletier whose works are colorful and lively. Old Quebec is a great walking town with many historic sites and monuments with great vistas of the St. Lawrence River, but to fully appreciate this unique town, please go inside to understand and patronize the quality merchants in order to a have a full experience while in Old Quebec. Highly Recommended!Visited May 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten May 22, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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24
Margaret L
Brisbane, Australia323 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Family
Absolutely fascinating! Wander along the cobblestone streets and take in some window shopping- or if you want, buy beautiful gifts and artwork. Amazing photo opportunities with the Chateau Frontenac imposing up ahead. Absolutely stunning! To save your legs, catch the furnicular up to the top ($5 cash only)
Written December 1, 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.
TheMcRyans
Nova Scotia7 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Couples
Live old Quebec ! So pretty .. so worth the trip ! I been here summer fall and winter ! Always something to see or do !
Written November 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.
Neddy
1 contribution
Mar. 2023 • Family
We had a great visit that afternoon. Had some delicious ice cream too. But we chose not to linger too long, which in hindsight, was a good thing. I say this because of the recent news that a tourist/photographer was handcuffed and charged with a 'loitering' offense...while taking or planning on taking photos of the famous landmark Château Frontenac...while standing on a public sidewalk. So if you visit old Quebec, please remember to keep moving; otherwise, you may be cited for lingering/loitering. Just take your photo quickly and move on.
Written November 6, 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.
GrandTour452506
192 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Family
Walking around Old Quebec was amazing. We visited at the beginning of October. All of the little park areas were decorated up for Halloween. This was so fu to see. We visited on a cruise and were lucky to have a guest lecturer from Quebec City on the cruise. She explained some of the things to see and expect here. The art in the area was really fun to see. There was a lot of climbing to do to get to the upper part of the city. But the views are worth it. They do have a funicular but we opted out as the line was fairly long. We saw some people show up at the top long after we had already arrived by walking. However, this would be a viable option for those who can't do the stairs or walking the streets up.
One thing I would say was a drawback. None of the shop owners would do the exchange rates for items we purchased in cash. If it said $2 it was either Canadian or American dollars. They were just too lazy even when asked to do it. SO if you don't have any Canadian money, do your transactions with a credit card AND have them do the transaction in Canadian dollars so you don't get charged and exchange rate fee plus when it does hit your card, you get the exchange rate for that day not the day of the transaction.
All in all Quebec City is a fun place to visit. I would like to go back to explore more as we only got a taste of what there was to do and see here.
One thing I would say was a drawback. None of the shop owners would do the exchange rates for items we purchased in cash. If it said $2 it was either Canadian or American dollars. They were just too lazy even when asked to do it. SO if you don't have any Canadian money, do your transactions with a credit card AND have them do the transaction in Canadian dollars so you don't get charged and exchange rate fee plus when it does hit your card, you get the exchange rate for that day not the day of the transaction.
All in all Quebec City is a fun place to visit. I would like to go back to explore more as we only got a taste of what there was to do and see here.
Written October 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.
TERRAvelista
London, UK17,535 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Family
My first time in Quebec city during our 3000km driving trip all the way to PEI and old Quebec city is truly a gorgeous place with many architectural influences left by the British in a true European style. Most surely we will be back due to finding it so romantic and 'calm' similarly to the towns of Seville or Venice when most of the tourists are gone.
We arrived here mid September and were fortunate to have some very nice, sunny weather. We managed to find all the turns via my mobile google satellite view (as we drove from the western part of the city where they still build massively) where we also found some good parking, underneath a building off rue Saint Louis for around 22 CAD/day in a special designed multi level parking space: you cannot simply park on the cobbled streets so research this in advance and yes, parking is expensive here, just like everything else.
All is walking distance, make sure you have non slippery flat shoes or at least wedge shoes, as I tend to wear (I learned this the hard way after cutting my ankles on the cobbled streets of Santorini, however sporty I am) and plan in advance what you want to visit. Most of the indoor places of interest have an entrance fee, except the Notre Dame cathedral (Notre Dame in Montreal is around 18 CAD if I remember correctly, by contrast) and I will be writing reviews about everything worth visiting. I hope this helps in organising your day.
We arrived here mid September and were fortunate to have some very nice, sunny weather. We managed to find all the turns via my mobile google satellite view (as we drove from the western part of the city where they still build massively) where we also found some good parking, underneath a building off rue Saint Louis for around 22 CAD/day in a special designed multi level parking space: you cannot simply park on the cobbled streets so research this in advance and yes, parking is expensive here, just like everything else.
All is walking distance, make sure you have non slippery flat shoes or at least wedge shoes, as I tend to wear (I learned this the hard way after cutting my ankles on the cobbled streets of Santorini, however sporty I am) and plan in advance what you want to visit. Most of the indoor places of interest have an entrance fee, except the Notre Dame cathedral (Notre Dame in Montreal is around 18 CAD if I remember correctly, by contrast) and I will be writing reviews about everything worth visiting. I hope this helps in organising your day.
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.
HarmAn
Orlando, FL246 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
How amazing is learning about stories in Quebec. This place is completely enormous, huge and also have parking inside for the visitors. The best view you can see it from there is just amazing.
Written October 25, 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.
garysheehan25
Newtown, CT17 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
We stayed at the Clarendon. Perfect location in the old city. Valet took the car and we did not retrieve it until we checked out. What a great city. Walked everywhere though beware- it seems like everywhere we walked, it was uphill. Very strange.
We had been there before but this time we went not only as tourists but to just relax. Had no agenda. Just wandered. I think this is the perfect way to plan a visit. Hotel was absolutely wonderful. Food everywhere was great and the people, both those who live and work there and the fellow tourist are just friendly and relaxed. This is truly a no pressure city. Like Montreal, the province is the best of both Canada and of the Quebecque region.
We had been there before but this time we went not only as tourists but to just relax. Had no agenda. Just wandered. I think this is the perfect way to plan a visit. Hotel was absolutely wonderful. Food everywhere was great and the people, both those who live and work there and the fellow tourist are just friendly and relaxed. This is truly a no pressure city. Like Montreal, the province is the best of both Canada and of the Quebecque region.
Written October 19, 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.
Mitos Mckay
St. Augustine, FL38 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
I loved the old city of Quebec. People speak French but it had a different vibe from Paris! It’s very walkable and has many interesting art sculptures. There are lots of pubs and restaurants to choose from and lots of little shops along the way. Don’t miss the Chateau Frontenac!
Written October 18, 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.
Dimitris L
Sydney, Australia44,509 contributions
Aug. 2023 • Couples
Old Quebec would have to be one of the most beautiful cities. There is so much to love about the place! It is clean, it is walkable, it is full of wonderful sights, restaurants, bars and shops of all descriptions. The architecture is fantastic and the people friendly. We walked everywhere and it was such an absolute pleasure! Restaurant food can be good and not so good but not cheap, like everywhere else. We stayed at a hotel which was very close to the Old Quebec and we were very happy. You don't need a car, just walk!
Written October 16, 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.
Andrew Solli
St. Marys, GA28 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
We lived exploring this beautiful town. The old town is very easy to see and filled with quaint small shops, small pedestrian only walkways, and great scenery. It is a “don’t miss” place to see.
Written October 15, 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.
Tourista0906
Chicago, IL
What to do with children in Quebec City?
GrandTour452506
192 contributions
I would say it depends on the age and interest of the kids. You could walk the Duffin Terrace and go west to the Citadel and Plains of Abraham. The views from there are really cool. There is a lot of history there to be learned. On the way up if you walk up you can visit Montmorency historical park. All of these places are very walkable. They also have plaques in both French and English talking about the history of the area. You can catch some of the murals around town too.
Tracey C
Rockford, IL
I would need use my power wheelchair. How would it be on the streets in Quebec City? Thnx
Robert G
Bar Harbor, ME22 contributions
Old Quebec would be difficult but not impossible, Very steep hills, streets and walkways. Additionally, the old cobblestone streets may present problems. I have two artificial knees and some respiratory problems so I took breaks every 45 to 60 minutes and managed to tour Old Town for about six or seven hours. Good luck.
Is overnight parking available in old Quebec City ?
David B
Delray Beach, FL1,143 contributions
Unsure, came by ship. Might check port parking as it is close by?
Jeff
2 contributions
We are travelling there mid September for one week staying at l'Hotel du Vieux Quebec. Are tours still available this time of the year and what services have been curtailed by COVID? Is Rue St. Jean still pedestrian only? W e are hoping shops and restaurant are not cut back.
keshme
Los Angeles, CA67 contributions
Traveling 2nd week of December and curious if we need to rent a car to get around or if taxis/ubers would suffice for 4 days?
krista_lu
Muskoka District, Canada31 contributions
Curious how the crowds have been in Old Quebec? Planning to come next week (August 2021) with my daughter who is too young to be vaccinated. Is it crowded everywhere or will we be able to feel safe touring around?
Chris
Bowmanville, Canada9 contributions
Was just there August 8-9, and there are areas less busy and other areas, with narrow streets that are very busy and full of people. Restaurants were also busy, but you could stick to the patios, if the weather is nice.
YonathanG
Miami, FL17 contributions
Hi! I’m going to quebec city next month December 27-January 1st. I was wondering, is a trench coat warm enough to wear at that time of the year? And is it acceptable?
ALM
Halifax, Canada40 contributions
I went last January and found it very cold (even to a fellow Canadian)! It was parka, hat, mittens, boots weather for certain!
Jennifer D
2 contributions
Hi
How was the weather? we are traveling there this week and I am still deciding if I should bring my wool winter coat? TIA
Lise Steinhauer
Jupiter, FL10 contributions
I was just notified about your question and trust you had a wonderful trip. I took layers and used them all. When I travel, I consult (not until I pack) a 5- or 10-day forecast that shows morning, noon, and PM temps.
Elaine N
3 contributions
Are there horse drawn carriage tours of the old town? If so, cost and length of ride?
Love Fine Dining
Indian Shores, FL121 contributions
Yes. We loved it. We picked them up in front of the hotel Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. We paid 90 CAD. We thought it was inexpensive for experience. Also, it depends on the exchange rate.
Chris M
Laval, Canada39 contributions
Where is the best place to park in Quebec City for a day trip? Driving up for a day trip to walk around the Old Port area of QC city. Wanting to park someplace as centrally located as possible, or any other ideas would be greatly appreciated,.
1bigred
Toronto, Canada194 contributions
We took the hotel shuttle, and it drops you off right in the heart of the old city. You take it back from there as well. It is in front of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
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Claim your listingOLD QUEBEC - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Old Quebec
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Old Quebec:
- Quebec City Walking Tour (From C$33.72)
- Quebec City Sightseeing Tour (From C$57.23)
- Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip from Montreal (From C$132.86)
- Quebec City Guided Sightseeing Cruise (From C$64.60)
- Private Tour: Quebec City Walking Tour (From C$102.21)
- Hotels near Old Quebec:
- (0.03 km) Old town at it's best
- (0.06 km) 1.5 Bedroom Condo at the Petit Champlain District in Old Quebec
- (0.14 km) Auberge Place D'Armes
- (0.12 km) Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
- (0.12 km) Auberge du Tresor
- Restaurants near Old Quebec:
- (0.03 km) Terrace Restaurant in the Fairmont Frontenac
- (0.05 km) Starbucks
- (0.18 km) Restaurant Taniere
- (0.07 km) Mary's Popcorn
- (0.14 km) La Pizz
- Attractions near Old Quebec:
- (0.04 km) La Venus Spatiale
- (0.05 km) Boutique Loulou
- (0.11 km) Tours Voir Quebec
- (0.14 km) Quartier Petit Champlain
- (0.12 km) Place Royale