Quebec City 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive in Quebec City and check-in to your accommodation. Recommended hotels include:
    • Hotel Le Germain Quebec
    • Hotel Manoir Victoria
    • Airbnb options in the Old Quebec neighborhood
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at:
    • Café-Boulangerie Paillard (try their famous croissants!)
    • Le Cochon Dingue (a popular spot for brunch)

Afternoon

  • Visit the iconic Chateau Frontenac, a historic hotel that dominates the city’s skyline
  • Explore the Old Quebec neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover its charming streets, fortifications, and historic buildings
  • Stop by the Place Royale, where French explorer Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at:
    • Le Saint-Amour (French-Canadian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients)
    • L’Affaire est Ketchup (a trendy restaurant serving creative dishes)
  • Take a stroll along the Dufferin Terrace, offering breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River

Things to Know

  • Quebec City is predominantly French-speaking, so it’s a good idea to learn some basic French phrases
  • The city has a rich history, and you’ll find many historical landmarks and museums to explore

Transportation

  • Walking is the best way to explore Old Quebec, but you can also use public transportation (RTC buses) or take a taxi
  • Consider purchasing a Quebec City Tourist Card, which grants access to public transportation and several attractions

Tips

  • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks in Old Quebec
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of the city from the Dufferin Terrace at sunset

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Citadelle of Quebec, a historic fortress that now serves as the secondary residence of the Governor General of Canada
  • Explore the Musée de la Civilization, which features exhibits on Quebec’s history, culture, and science

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec, one of the oldest churches in North America
  • Visit the Maison de la Littérature, a cultural center dedicated to literature and writing

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at:
    • Le Cloché Penché (a cozy restaurant serving French-Canadian cuisine)
    • Buvette Scott (a popular spot for wine and small plates)
  • Catch a show or concert at the Grand Théâtre de Québec

Things to Know

  • The Citadelle of Quebec is an active military base, so be respectful of the surroundings
  • The Musée de la Civilization offers free admission on Thursday evenings

Transportation

  • Use public transportation (RTC buses) or take a taxi to get around the city
  • Consider purchasing a Quebec City Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour for easy access to attractions

Tips

  • Be prepared for security checks at the Citadelle of Quebec
  • Take your time exploring the exhibits at the Musée de la Civilization, as there is a lot to see and learn

Day 3: Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Montmorency Falls, a breathtaking waterfall just outside the city (approximately 30 minutes by car or public transportation)
  • Explore the falls’ surroundings, including hiking trails, zip lining, and a suspension bridge

Afternoon

  • Visit the charming town of Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré, known for its picturesque scenery, historic churches, and traditional Quebecois cuisine
  • Stop by the Auberge de la Montagne, a cozy inn offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at:
    • Le Relais de Ste-Anne (serving traditional Quebecois dishes)
    • La Maison du Bootlegger (a popular spot for burgers and craft beer)
  • Return to Quebec City in the evening and enjoy the city’s nightlife

Things to Know

  • Montmorency Falls is a popular destination, so be prepared for crowds
  • Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré has a rich history dating back to the 17th century, with many historic sites to explore

Transportation

  • Take public transportation (RTC buses) or drive to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré
  • Consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation from Quebec City

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking at Montmorency Falls
  • Be prepared for variable weather in the mountains

Day 4: Île d’Orléans and Wineries

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Île d’Orléans, an island in the St. Lawrence River (approximately 30 minutes by car and ferry)
  • Explore the island’s picturesque villages, beaches, and countryside
  • Visit a local winery, such as:
    • Vignoble de l’Orpailleur (offering wine tastings and tours)

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Cidrerie Verger Les Vergers Lafrance, a popular spot for cider tastings and donuts
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the island’s many restaurants, such as:
    • Le Bistro de l’Île (serving local specialties)
    • La Maison des Arts et du Goût (offering creative dishes)

Evening

  • Return to Quebec City in the evening and enjoy dinner at:
    • Le Lapin Sauté (a cozy restaurant serving French-Canadian cuisine)
    • L’Échaudé (a popular spot for burgers and craft beer)
  • Explore the city’s nightlife, including bars, clubs, and live music venues

Things to Know

  • Île d’Orléans is a popular destination, so be prepared for crowds
  • The island has many wineries and cideries, offering tastings and tours

Transportation

  • Take public transportation (RTC buses) or drive to the ferry terminal, then take the ferry to Île d’Orléans
  • Consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation from Quebec City

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the island
  • Be prepared for variable weather on the island

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring local markets, such as:
    • Marché de Noël Allemand (a German-style Christmas market)
    • Marché public de Québec (a public market offering local produce and crafts)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Galerie d’art du parc , a contemporary art gallery located in a beautiful park
  • Stop by the Quartier Petit Champlain, a charming neighborhood with unique shops and restaurants

Departure

  • Spend the evening packing up and preparing for departure
  • Head to the airport or train station for your return journey home

Things to Know

  • Quebec City has many unique shopping experiences, including boutiques and local markets
  • Be prepared for crowds at popular attractions on your last day in the city

Transportation

  • Use public transportation (RTC buses) or take a taxi to get around the city
  • Consider booking a private transfer or shuttle service to the airport or train station

Tips

  • Don’t forget to try some of Quebec City’s famous ice cream before you leave!
  • Take one last stroll along the Dufferin Terrace to admire the views of the St. Lawrence River