Quebec City 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Old City

Morning

  • Start at Place Royale, a historic site marking the foundation of Quebec City in 1608.
  • Visit the nearby Musée de la Civilization, which offers insight into the city’s history and culture.

Afternoon

  • Walk along the Fortifications of Quebec National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only remaining fortified city walls in North America.
  • Explore the charming streets of Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and visit the iconic Chateau Frontenac.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Café de la Terrasse, offering French-Canadian cuisine with a view of the Saint Lawrence River.
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Manoir Victoria, a historic hotel in the heart of Upper Town.

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and exploring the fortifications.
  • Be prepared for variable weather, as Quebec City can be chilly even in summer.

Transportation

  • Walk or take a taxi from Place Royale to Musée de la Civilization ( approx. 10-15 minutes).
  • Use public transportation (RTC bus) or walk between Upper Town and Lower Town (Basse-Ville).

Day 2: Montcalm and Saint-Jean Districts

Morning

  • Visit the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec, featuring a diverse collection of Quebec art.
  • Explore the trendy Saint-Jean District, known for its boutiques, cafes, and street art.

Afternoon

  • Head to Parc de la Francophonie, a beautiful park with gardens, fountains, and outdoor concerts in summer.
  • Visit the Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a stunning church with impressive architecture.

Evening

  • Dine at L’Affaire Estwick, offering gourmet burgers and craft beer.
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Le Germain Quebec, a modern boutique hotel in the heart of Montcalm District.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds in Saint-Jean District, especially on weekends.
  • Take advantage of free outdoor concerts and events in Parc de la Francophonie during summer.

Transportation

  • Use public transportation (RTC bus) or walk between Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec and Saint-Jean District (approx. 20-25 minutes).
  • Walk or take a taxi between Parc de la Francophonie and Hotel Le Germain Quebec (approx. 10-15 minutes).

Day 3: Île d’Orléans and Montmorency Falls

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Île d’Orléans, an island in the Saint Lawrence River known for its picturesque villages, vineyards, and orchards.
  • Visit a local winery, such as Vignoble du Rheu, for a wine tasting.

Afternoon

  • Head to Montmorency Falls (Chute-Montmorency), a breathtaking waterfall just outside Quebec City.
  • Take the cable car or hike to the top of the falls for panoramic views.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Relais des Pins, offering French-Canadian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Return to Hotel Le Germain Quebec for another night’s stay.

Tips

  • Rent a car or book a guided tour to visit Île d’Orléans and Montmorency Falls, as public transportation options are limited.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for outdoor activities.

Transportation

  • Drive or take a guided tour from Quebec City to Île d’Orléans (approx. 30-40 minutes).
  • Use the same transportation method to reach Montmorency Falls from Île d’Orléans (approx. 20-30 minutes).

Day 4: Lower Town and Sainte-Anne District

Morning

  • Explore Lower Town (Basse-Ville), including the bustling streets of Rue du Petit-Champlain.
  • Visit the Marché du Vieux-Port, a vibrant marketplace with local produce, crafts, and food.

Afternoon

  • Head to the Sainte-Anne District, known for its historic architecture, antique shops, and art galleries.
  • Visit the Église Sainte-Anne-du-Nord, a beautiful church with stunning stained-glass windows.

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Le Lapin Sauté, offering French-Canadian cuisine with a focus on local game meats.
  • Spend the last night at Hotel Le Germain Quebec or explore other accommodation options in Lower Town.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and variable weather in Lower Town, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Take your time exploring Sainte-Anne District, as the area is rich in history and architecture.

Transportation

  • Walk or take a taxi between Lower Town and Sainte-Anne District (approx. 10-15 minutes).
  • Use public transportation (RTC bus) or walk to Hotel Le Germain Quebec from Sainte-Anne District (approx. 20-25 minutes).

Other Things to Know

  • Language: While many Quebecers speak English, it’s appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak French.
  • Currency: The Canadian dollar is the local currency, and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but is generally 15% in restaurants and bars.
  • Safety: Quebec City is considered a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.