Is Quebec City Worth Visiting?
Planning a trip to Canada and curiously asking, “is Quebec City worth visiting?” Well, I’ve spent a couple days enjoying Old Quebec and the Christmas Markets in December and I would gladly return!
There are places I’ve been that I’d never prioritize returning to, but the charm of Quebec City in December had me wondering the charm it offers in every season! So my answer is yes, Quebec City is worth visiting!
I will break down my reasons below so you can decide if it makes sense for you. After all, each of us are different and any destination can disappoint if we go with unrealistic expectations.
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UNESCO World Heritage Site
Quebec City, one of the oldest cities in North America, was founded in 1608 by French explorer Samuel de Champlain. Serving as the capital of New France, it has remained a key player in North American history ever since. It should come as no surprise that it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
The Old City, or Vieux-Québec, is brimming with history. You can explore the majestic Château Frontenac, which overlooks the St. Lawrence River, or stroll along the ancient city walls that once protected the city from invaders. Even if history is not something you care about, it’s the history that gives Quebec City its unmissable charm!
The Charm of Old Quebec “Vieux-Québec”
The preservation of history gives Quebec City the most European feel I’ve ever experienced in North America! Places like Boston ooze history and charm, but you still feel like you’re in North America. In Quebec City, I felt transported.
Narrow cobblestone streets with 17th century architecture and French speaking residents will have you feeling like you’ve crossed the Atlantic Ocean! Though it’s not all French influence as the British have some history here as well.
I loved the charm and how walkable the Old City is, and despite not being a cold weather girl I still loved it even in December! In fact, the Christmas Markets were why I went and they did not disappoint! They were better than in Montreal, so if you do head there in December I recommend hitting the Christmas Markets which usually take place in the evenings from Thursday to Sunday.
Walking into places like Place Royale with its Christmas Tree, the iconic Chateau Frontenac, and the old military feel of Citadelle of Québec, I felt like I was in a story book. And Quebec City was already covered in a blanket of snow which only added to the charm!
As I looked out over the St. Lawrence River from the Citadelle, I couldn’t help but wonder what charm the Summer months offer here. One day I’ll make it back and report on Quebec City in another season, but regardless of when you go, I am convinced the charm of Old Quebec will deliver!
Culture and Festivals in Quebec City
Quebec City seems to have something going on every month of the year! I loved the Christmas Markets in Quebec City which runs end of November through Christmas. It was the most charming setting as the markets were sprinkled throughout Old Quebec! While I haven’t been to other festivals or events, I can only imagine how great they will be based on the Christmas Markets!
I live in a small town and there always seems to be something going on and Quebec City seems the same if not more! If you plan to visit, check to see if there’s anything happening that month. However, here are some of the bigger festivals or events you may want to experience.
There is a winter festival in Quebec City called Carnaval de Québec in February. This festival looks fun and includes events like ice canoe racing, parades and evening music concerts.
Quebec City also hosts a Magic Festival and a Beer Festival! In July there is a big music festival called Festival d’été de Québec and if you like comedy, they host ComediHa! Fest-Québec.
Whatever time of you year you are planning to visit, be sure to check whether there are any events worth planning your trip around.
Charming Year Round
The festivals and events going on year round seem to prove this destination is worth visiting any time! I loved the Christmas Markets in December, with the city blanketed in snow. It actually felt like I was on a movie. It was perfection!
I would gladly return for warmer temperatures to experience the beauty and history again! Enjoy a boat tour or whale watching tour. See the waterfall!
Whether the flowers are starting to bloom in Spring, the warm sun is inviting you outdoors in Summer, the leaves are changing, or the snow is falling, Quebec City is a worthwhile destination!
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
In December, there was already a beautiful snow cover. While I very much enjoyed walking around, I was left to imagine the charm Quebec City holds in the Summer! I’d happily return in warmer months to trade the snow for fields of green!
Of course, the Winter isn’t lacking outdoor fun! There was ice skating offered when I was in Quebec City and you can look into skiing or snowshoeing just outside the city! The Winter Festival also offers many outdoor activities including ice fishing.
Hiking and biking are great options as the weather warms up! Of course, Montmorency Falls should be on your list, though I was unable to check that off when I was there. Also, if you are in Quebec City from May to October, consider a whale watching tour!
Food and Dining
The food scene is a crucial part of any solid destination and Quebec City delivers! Be sure to have poutine while you’re there! It’s a quintessential Québécois dish combining crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in savory brown gravy. Of course, maple products are a must too! I had some maple taffy at one of the Christmas Markets and it was delicious!
Some restaurants to consider while in Quebec City include Le Saint-Amour and Légende for fine dining. For a more casual option, consider this rustic-chic Restaurant La Buche. For upmarket farm to table look into Chez Muffy.
Walkable and Accessible
I love how walkable Old Quebec is and how easy it is to visit! While I flew into Quebec City and took an uber to my hotel, I never needed a car after I arrived!
The train and bus stations are within walking distance of Old Quebec. My hotel was conventionally close to the train station so I was able to walk with my luggage to catch my train to Montreal. All in all, it’s a very easy city to travel to and from making it an easy add-on!
If you want to visit destinations outside of Old Quebec, the tourism is well setup, but I loved being able to walk and explore the area and not have to worry about organizing transportation. However, if you are able to do any day trips, the tourist office can help you book a tour or advise on the best public transport method.
If you are visiting Montreal and wondering the best way to get to Quebec City, I did a guide comparing the transportation options from Montreal to Quebec City.
I flew into Quebec City, but took a train to Montreal. Of the two, the train was more punctual and overall an easy and positive experience! However you choose to get to Quebec City, you will have options!
French and English Speaking
Yes, the French Canadians speak French, but they also speak English! The locals were easy to communicate with and I had only pleasant interactions! They were so kind and welcoming, which isn’t always the case especially when it comes to touristy destinations.
Of course, since they do speak French you feel more transported! It added to the whole European feel and I really loved it! The best of both worlds!
Weather in Quebec City by Season
As someone living in Florida, I don’t experience four seasons, but Quebec City definitely has four distinct seasons! As long as you dress appropriately, I think Quebec City is a great year round destination!
Winter is from December to February and is cold, snowy, and perfect for winter activities. When I visited beginning of December, there was already a beautiful blanket of snow! I wasn’t sure what to wear in Quebec City in December, but I went prepared and was surprisingly warm!
Spring is March to May and is generally cool and variable, with snow melting and flowers blooming.
June to August is Summer and it is warm, pleasant, and ideal for outdoor exploration and festivals.
Lastly, September to November is Fall which is crisp, cool, and colorful with beautiful foliage.
- Winter: 23°F to 14°F (Highs), 5°F to -4°F (Lows)
- Spring: 37°F to 54°F (Highs), 23°F to 36°F (Lows)
- Summer: 68°F to 77°F (Highs), 54°F to 61°F (Lows)
- Fall: 57°F to 64°F (Highs), 41°F to 50°F (Lows)
Where to Stay in Quebec City
I recommend staying in Old Quebec as that is the area you will spend the bulk of your time! Prices below will vary depending on when you book, but I’ve provided a general guideline.
I stayed at a Monastery and loved it! It was very clean, within walking distance of the train station, and you can enjoy a free tour and learn about the history. The silent breakfast was delicious and awkwardly entertaining. I loved it! And though I don’t like talking much in the morning, I was very conscious of my silverware clanking, but there was a soft music playing to help!
Most Iconic | $400+ Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
Well Rated and Affordable | $160+ Hotel Le Priori
FAQ
Is Quebec City worth visiting? [Short Answer]
Yes! I loved Quebec City and found it to be so charming and I look forward to returning in warmer months one day!
It’s an easy add on from Montreal, very walkable and you could spend one day or a few!
How many days do I need in Québec City?
I spent two days in Quebec City in December and felt like I got the big highlights of Old Quebec covered! Since I wasn’t able to make it to the waterfall or enjoy any type of boat tour, two days seemed perfect!
If you want to do more outside the city or are visiting during a season where whale watching is an option, you will want to add more days to your itinerary! Overall, I think three is solid for Old Quebec, the Falls and a boat tour, but four would give your itinerary some breathing room.
Is Quebec City friendly to Americans?
Yes! I found the people of Quebec City to be very friendly and welcoming! They easily switched to English when it was clear we couldn’t speak more than “Bonjour.” I never once thought they came across snobby or impatient and overall I had a great experience!
Is Quebec City worth visiting at Christmas?
Yes! I went for Christmas Markets and was NOT disappointed! And for context, the Christmas Markets in Atlanta and Montreal did not even come close! The whole experience in Old Quebec was perfect!
The Christmas Markets are spread throughout Old Quebec. This made the experience more charming and fun! My friend and I spent Thursday evening Christmas Market hopping around Old Quebec and we felt like we were in a Christmas movie!
Is Quebec City safe?
Yes! I don’t recall one moment when I felt even slightly unsafe. Maybe walking on the sidewalk and nervous about the icy conditions is the only time.
I spent the first day of my 4 Days in Montreal and Quebec City exploring Old Quebec solo and felt completely safe! Even once the sun set, I felt safe!
Which is the better tourist destination, Montreal or Quebec City?
Both are wonderful and completely different. Think of Montreal like a New York City and Quebec City like a Charleston, South Carolina. Montreal is a big city where you can spend days exploring and Quebec City is more of a small town.
I think both are worth visiting, but you don’t need as much time in Quebec City.
Is Quebec City Worth Visiting?
So is Quebec City worth visiting? In my opinion, yes! However, I would ensure you choose the appropriate length of stay that fits your preferences. If you’re a big city person, you may only want a day trip to Quebec City. Of course, I think it’s worth at least two days!
If you head there in December, be sure to go on the weekends so you can enjoy the Christmas Markets! It’s so incredibly charming and definitely intensified my desire to Christmas Market hop in Europe!
Yet I love having a taste of European flavor that is also incredibly welcoming right here in North America! However you decide and for however long, I hope you enjoy the charm of Quebec City as much as I did!
