Quebec City-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Quebec City

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Old Quebec

  • Morning: Arrive in Quebec City and check-in to your accommodation. Recommended hotel: Hotel Manoir Victoria or Auberge Saint-Antoine.
  • Afternoon: Start exploring Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the cobblestone streets and visit:
    • Place Royale: The birthplace of French America.
    • Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral: A beautiful church with stunning architecture.
    • Fortifications of Quebec National Historic Site: Explore the only remaining fortified city walls in North America.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Saint-Amour, a cozy French restaurant. Try their famous duck magret.

Day 2: Montmorency Falls and Île d’Orléans

  • Morning: Take a day trip to:
    • Montmorency Falls (30 minutes from Quebec City): A breathtaking waterfall higher than Niagara Falls.
    • Île d’Orléans (1 hour from Quebec City): An island in the Saint Lawrence River with picturesque villages and orchards. Visit:
      • Cidrerie Verger les Frères Ouellet: Taste local ciders and enjoy a picnic lunch.
  • Evening: Return to Quebec City and enjoy dinner at Le Cloché Penché, a bistro serving creative, farm-to-table cuisine.

Day 3: Museums and Galleries

  • Morning: Visit:
    • Musée de la Civilization (Museum of Civilization): Explore Quebec’s history and culture.
    • Grand Théâtre de Québec: Admire the stunning architecture of this performing arts center.
  • Afternoon: Stop by:
    • Galerie Louise-Carrier: Discover local art and craftwork.
    • Boutique Métiers d’Art du Québec: Find unique, handmade Quebecois products.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at L’Initiale, a gourmet restaurant with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 4: Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré and the Beaupré Coast

  • Morning: Take a day trip to:
    • Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré (30 minutes from Quebec City): A charming town famous for its basilica and stunning views.
    • Beaupré Coast: Explore the scenic coastal route with picturesque villages and beaches. Visit:
      • Café de la Marine: Enjoy a coffee or lunch break with a view of the Saint Lawrence River.
  • Evening: Return to Quebec City and enjoy dinner at Le Café de la Terrasse, a cozy bistro with outdoor seating.

Day 5: Outdoor Activities

  • Morning: Choose from:
    • Hiking or biking in Bois-de-Coulonge Park: Explore the scenic trails and forests just outside Quebec City.
    • Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Saint Lawrence River: Rent equipment and explore the river with a guided tour.
  • Afternoon: Relax at:
    • Spa du Château Frontenac: Unwind with a massage or other treatments at this luxurious spa.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Buvette Scott, a trendy restaurant serving creative, farm-to-table cuisine.

Day 6: Winter Activities (seasonal)

  • Morning: If traveling in winter, enjoy:
    • Skiing or snowboarding at Mont Sainte-Anne: Hit the slopes just outside Quebec City.
    • Ice skating at Place D’Youville: Skate under the stars in a beautiful outdoor setting.
  • Afternoon: Warm up with:
    • Hot chocolate and pastries at Café-Boulangerie Paillard: A cozy café serving delicious treats.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Lapin Sauté, a rustic restaurant serving traditional Quebecois cuisine.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market:
    • Marché du Vieux-Port: Find unique gifts and enjoy the atmosphere.
  • Afternoon: Depart for the airport or your next destination.

Things to Know

  • Quebec City is predominantly French-speaking, but many locals also speak English.
  • The city has a rich history and architecture, with many buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.
  • Be prepared for variable weather, especially in winter.

Transportation

  • Fly into Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB), about 16 km from Quebec City.
  • Use public transportation: Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC) offers bus services throughout the city.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Tips

  • Try to learn some basic French phrases to show respect for the local culture.
  • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks in Old Quebec.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River from various lookout points throughout the city.

Other Interests

  • Festivals and Events: Check the city’s events calendar for festivals like the Quebec City Winter Festival or Envol et Macadam music festival.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit the Vignoble de l’Orpailleur, a local vineyard offering wine tastings and tours.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Explore the surrounding countryside with activities like horseback riding, dog sledding, or ziplining.