10 Fun Things to Do in Quebec City

Welcome to Quebec City, the vibrant capital of Canada’s French-speaking province of Quebec. Here you can find a unique blend of French-Canadian culture, set against a stunning historic backdrop. From the bustling city streets to the captivating outdoor adventure, Quebec City is a feast for the senses.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, here are 10 fun things to do in Quebec City.

Explore the Old City

The Old City of Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. With its cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and centuries-old architecture, it’s a must-see. Take a leisurely stroll and take in the beauty of this historic city.

Explore the winding streets and discover shops, restaurants, and galleries. Stop by the Place Royale, the heart of the Old City, and admire the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church. Be sure to visit the iconic Chateau Frontenac, towering over the St. Lawrence River.

Admire the city walls, built in the 17th century, and take a guided tour. Or, take a horse-drawn carriage ride to really get a feel for the city.

Visit the Historic Buildings

Quebec City is home to some of the oldest buildings in North America. Take a tour of the Parliament Building, the oldest in Canada, or the Citadelle of Quebec, a star-shaped fortification built in the 19th century. Visit the National Assembly, home to the provincial government, and admire its grand architecture.

Explore the Place d’Armes, a stunning square surrounded by historic buildings and monuments. Or, check out the imposing stone gates of the Old Port.

Be sure to take a tour of the Musée de la Civilisation, a museum of Quebec’s rich cultural history, housed in a historic building.

Go on a Food Tour

Quebec City is known for its delicious food, and a food tour is the perfect way to sample the best of it. Taste local delicacies like poutine, tourtière, and beaver tails. Discover the city’s unique food culture, from its traditional French-Canadian cuisine to its modern, international dishes.

Check out the local markets and discover one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Or, take a cooking class and learn how to make classic dishes like crepes and smoked meat sandwiches.

For a truly unique experience, take a nighttime food tour and explore the city’s vibrant nightlife. Sample craft beers at local breweries and sip on unique cocktails in stylish bars.

Visit Museums

Quebec City is full of fascinating museums, from the iconic Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec to the Musée de la Civilisation. Explore the city’s history and culture at the Musée de la Place Royale, or take a journey through the natural world at the Biodôme de Québec.

For a unique experience, take a tour of the Musée de l’Amérique Francophone, a museum dedicated to the history and culture of French-speaking North America. Or, explore the Musée des Ursulines, a museum housed in an old Ursuline convent.

Check out the Musée de la Civilisation’s interactive exhibits, and take a tour of the Musée de la Nature et des Sciences to learn about the natural world.

Take a Boat Tour

Take a boat tour and explore the wonders of the St. Lawrence River. Admire the picturesque islands, historic forts, and stunning views of the city. Enjoy a romantic dinner cruise and watch the sunset, or take a high-speed tour and explore the islands of the archipelago.

Go whale watching and spot some of the world’s most majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Or, take a river tour and explore the beautiful riverside villages.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a kayak or paddleboard tour and explore the river’s hidden secrets.

Go Skiing

Quebec City is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world. Enjoy a day on the slopes and take in the stunning views of the Laurentian Mountains. Check out Mont-Sainte-Anne, Stoneham, and Le Relais for some of the best skiing in the area.

Try snowshoeing or snowmobiling for a unique winter experience. Or, take a dogsledding tour and explore the magical winter wonderland.

Don’t miss the Ice Hotel, a unique winter experience. Spend the night in an igloo, or take a guided tour and explore the hotel’s snow sculptures and ice sculptures.

Explore the Parks and Gardens

Quebec City is home to some of the most beautiful parks and gardens in Canada. From the peaceful Parc de la Chute-Montmorency to the majestic Parc des Champs-de-Bataille, there’s something for everyone.

Check out the stunning Jardin des Gouverneurs, or explore the grounds of the iconic Chateau Frontenac. Take a leisurely stroll through the Parc de la Plaine des Jeux, or visit the enchanting Parc Michel-Chartrand.

Explore the Jardin des Métis, a stunning garden set on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Or, take a relaxing stroll through the tranquil Parc de l’Anse-au-Foulon.

Take a Day Trip

Quebec City is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Take a day trip and explore the nearby mountain towns. Visit Mont-Sainte-Anne for some of the best skiing in the area, or take a scenic drive to Baie-Saint-Paul and explore its charming streets and galleries.

Explore the stunning Îles-de-la-Madeleine, or take a boat tour of the Saguenay Fjord. Head to Tadoussac and explore its incredible marine wildlife, or visit the charming village of La Malbaie and take in the stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.

For a truly unique experience, take a tour of the mysterious Gaspé Peninsula.

Visit the Aquarium

Quebec City is home to the world-renowned Aquarium du Québec, one of the largest aquariums in North America. Explore the fascinating underwater world and discover a variety of sea creatures, from sharks to seals to jellyfish.

Admire the spectacular jellyfish displays, or take a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium. Visit the interactive exhibits and learn about the ocean’s fascinating inhabitants. Or, take a trip to the Shark Lagoon and observe the graceful sharks in their natural habitat.

For a truly unique experience, take a tour of the Aquarium’s Underwater Observatory and explore the spectacular coral reef.

Take a Cruise

What better way to explore Quebec City than on a cruise? Take a cruise along the St. Lawrence River and admire the stunning views of the city skyline. Discover the picturesque islands of the archipelago, or take a romantic dinner cruise and enjoy a delicious meal as you take in the stunning cityscape.

For a truly unique experience, take a whale-watching cruise and spot some of the world’s most majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Or, take an overnight cruise and explore the hidden gems of the St. Lawrence River.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Quebec City is known for its vibrant nightlife. From bars and clubs to live music venues, there’s something for everyone. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and explore the city’s unique nightlife scene.

Check out the legendary bar Le Cercle, or take in some live music at the Club Soda. Enjoy a romantic dinner and some jazz music at the Bistro Le Ste-Cath, or sip on craft beers at the Microbrasserie La Barberie.

For a truly unique experience, take a guided tour of the city’s speakeasies and sample some of the city’s best cocktails.

Summary

Quebec City is a vibrant city with a unique blend of French-Canadian culture. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, there’s something for everyone. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old City, visit historic buildings, go on a food tour, and take a boat tour. Enjoy skiing, explore the parks and gardens, and take a day trip. Visit the Aquarium, take a cruise, and enjoy the nightlife. Quebec City is a feast for the senses and has something for everyone!