Quebec City -

Quebec City is likely the most beautiful city in Canada. I recommend Quebec City, especially to anyone living in North America (it will be still beautiful, but maybe a little less impressive if you come from Europe.)

The charm of Quebec City is in its medieval old town (Vieux Québec), which is right on the St. Lawrence River. Quebec City has so much history, French-Canadian gastronomy, and scenic beauty surrounding it.

Old Town Quebec City — Umbrella Alley, which is set up in the old town every year

What to Do in Quebec City

Walk around Old Town, be sure to see the Petit Champlain, Chateau Frontenac, and the medieval churches. In the summer, don’t miss Umbrella Lane, which is set up in one of the narrow cobbled stone alleys
Do a cruise in the St. Lawrence River, which run in the summertime. They also have whale-watching cruises. For a budget-friendly option, take the ferry to Levis which is across the river (they run year-round)
See the Ice Hotel (winter only)
Do a food tour! Quebec City is known for specializing in French Canadian cuisine – I’ve listed the best food tours here
Visit Ile d’Orléans if you love wine or chocolate. They have wine tours, chocolate factories, apple farms, and ways to see how some of the traditional foods are produced
Visit museums, there are so many great ones in Quebec City – Musée des Beaux Arts, Museum of Civilization, and the Citadelle
Visit Montmorency Falls – see your options for getting to Montmorency Falls (it’s a 15 min drive from Quebec)
Visit the Quebec City Aquarium, especially if this is a family trip (and if it is, read my special guides on Quebec City with kids and/or with a toddler)

WHEN to Go to Quebec City

Quebec City is popular year-round, but the most popular times to visit are winter and summer – for completely different reasons.

See my special guides on Quebec City at Christmas, and in the fall for specific tips for those times of year.

The ‘low’ season where you’d encounter very few other tourists would be March through May; but there are special events and festivals that happen year round; including the spring.

Where to Stay in Quebec City

I recommend staying near the Old Town if possible, although it can be pricey. Here are some good places to stay according to budget, and what you need to know about them.

Budget ($50-$200/night): Auberge International de Quebec This is a very affordable, but great quality hostel right in Old Town, close to all the main things you want to see. It has dorms and private rooms. They also serve breakfast.
Mid-Range ($300-$400/night): Hotel Manoir de l’Esplanade Also located right in Old Town. This is a historic, stone building in the ‘centre of everything.’ A free breakfast is included too.
Luxury ($500-$1,000+/night): Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac This is the most photographed hotel in Canada, and its location is obviously the best

Where to Eat in Quebec City

There are many restaurants in Quebec City; most of them serve North American and French Canadian cuisine.

I highly recommend visiting at least one poutine restaurant, and a crepe place. There are also many cafés.

Since I usually visit Quebec City with kids, I also have a list of the most family-friendly restaurants too.