How to spend a long weekend in Quebec
My first getaway from Montreal was Quebec. Everyone told me it was great and had a very european vibe to it. I just left Europe to discover North America so not sure it was what I was chasing for, but it still left me curious!
In this article, I’m sharing my recommendations for a long weekend in Quebec.
Table of Contents
Best things to do in Quebec
Dufferin Terrace and Fairmount Le Château Frontenac
Dufferin Terrace is a wide wooden terrace in front of the Château Frontenac and the St Laurent river. It was rainy the day I went there, but the place was still lively with artists playing the saxophone, and tourists and locals enjoying a walk. You can watch firework displays from there in summer, and ride a giant toboggan in winter (mid-december to mid-march), a definite must-do anytime of the year!
The Château Frontenac is one of Quebec’s iconic views. It is actually a 5-star hotel with a spa and a restaurant that you can book on their website. However, even without booking, the hotel hallway is open to anyone. You’ll find there shops and cafés.
From the Dufferin Terrace, a funicular will take you to the Rue du Petit Champlain. The ride costs 6 Canadian dollars. If you prefer to walk, it will only take you 8 minutes to go there!
Rue du Petit Champlain and Place Royale
Quartier Petit Champlain is my favorite area of the Old Quebec. Take the Escalier Casse-Cou (stairway) and you’ll arrive at a narrow pedestrian street with cute independent boutiques and restaurants. Then, walk until the Place Royale, where you’ll see the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires catholic church (the oldest stone church in North America!). In winter, the area turns into a Christmas village, with decorations and trees that you can enjoy from December to February.
If you visit this area, don’t forget to check out the huge Fresque des Québécois.
Join these tours to have a closer look at the history and stories behind Quebec and its famous castle.
Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, Trésor street, and the Inuit Art gallery
Take a quiet break and visit the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, built in 1647. This cathedral is the first catholic parish in North America. Then, pass by the rue du Trésor, where locals sell their drawings or paints, and have a look at inuit art, in the Inuit Brousseau Art gallery.
Saint-Jean street
On rue Saint-Jean, stop at the North America’s oldest store: Epicerie J.A. Moisan. This shop, opened back in 1871, selled various products like tea, coffee, wine, cheese… The shop seems to be closed now due to economic difficulties. If you pass by and it is open, grab some food for a picnic!
Claire-Martin library is located in the St Matthew Anglican church. In Canada, a lot of old churches are now home to restaurants, libraries, bars, or schools, which I find pretty cool! (a former prison is also now home to a library: check out Morrin Centre if you’re interested)
Plains of Abraham and the Promenade des Gouverneurs
If you want to go for a stroll, wander in Plains of Abraham (site of the Battle of Québec, where the French lost the city to the British in 1759) or the Promenade des Gouverneurs, which is connected to the Dufferin Terrace.
Where to eat in Quebec
La Buche – for a quebec style brunch, similar to a cabane à sucre indoor experience
La Cuisine – a cosy family style restaurant
L’Antiquaire Buffet – for its brunch and poutine
Queues de Castor – for a quick sweet treat
How long to stay in Quebec
I recommend spending 2 days in Quebec + 1 to 2 more days if you want to do a side trip!
When to visit Quebec
In Winter (December to February): magical christmassy vibe in the old town.
In Spring (March to May): still a bit chilly and rainy, but it’s the sugar shack period! Late May is a good option (warmer and not so busy).
In Summer (June to August): vibrant atmosphere with festivals and more activities.
In Autumn (September to November): perfect to enjoy to fall foliage, with a peak around early October
Getting around
To visit Quebec, no need for a car or any public transportation, as the center is pretty small. However, I strongly recommend the car if you want to do a side trip.
Side trips from Quebec
Montmorency Falls – 15min by car
To be honest, I’m not a huge fan of falls in general, but there is a discount for Quebec residents, so I gave it a try. Fun fact, Montmorency falls is higher than Niagara Falls! You can take a cable car, hike, and go on the suspension bridge.
Ile d’Orléans – 30min by car
Summer to early fall is the perfect time to visit this island. You’ll find local farms and shops, vineyards, and gardens. Perfect for a peaceful day trip.
Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Sanctuary – 30min by car
A neoromanesque basilica, which looks stunning
Wendake – 30min by car
Check out the Huron-Wendat museum, which preserves and celebrates the history of the Huron-Wendat Nation (indigenous people from the Great Lakes region) through exhibits and activities.
Jacques-Cartier National Park – 45min by car
Visit for hikes, summer and winter activities (kayak, canoeing, snowshoeing, skating…), or just enjoy a cosy stay in nature.
Stop by a Casse-Croûte on the road
If you’re driving back to Montréal, don’t forget to stop by a casse-croûte for a poutine! Some ideas: Casse-Croûte de Neuville, Baldaquin le casse-croûte…
