30+ Great Things to Do in Old Quebec City
Old Quebec City is an area with a rich history and vibrant streets at just about any hour during the day or night. It’s home to some of Canada’s best restaurants, most interesting historical buildings, and, overall, is a veritable postcard town. Between the sweeping views of the Saint-Lawrence river, the delectable food and buzzing cobblestone streets, visiting Old Town Quebec City should be up there on anyone’s bucket list.
Magnificent Museums, Action-Packed Attractions and Tours & Summer Events
Whether you’re here to delve into the tales, locations, and individuals that have shaped the charming city you see today, to explore the premier destinations that define Quebec City, or to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle, you’ll find no shortage of options for an exciting adventure!
1. Old Quebec City Food Tour
Discover Old Quebec like you never have before–through its food! Learn about Old Quebec’s history with your knowledgeable guide and taste the town’s culinary heritage. Walk through the cobblestone streets and learn about the old buildings that still stand today. Savour the delicious food from some of Quebec City’s best eateries: from a rustic sugar shack to a hip snack bar. Between the food and drinks, the price of the ticket includes 12 yummy tastings in total! Instead of choosing just one restaurant in Quebec City, the Old Quebec City Food Tour invites you to sample many different places while learning about the area and meeting new people. For more information, click here!
2. Château Frontenac + Terrasse Dufferin
When you visit Quebec City, the head-honcho of attractions is the Château Frontenac and the Terrasse Dufferin. Built for the Canadian Pacific Railway company during the late 19th century, the hotel was intended to appeal to wealthy travellers and encourage luxury tourism. Today, the Château still towers over Old Town Quebec City and draws patrons from around the world. You can step inside and marvel at the glorious and grandiose lobby with gold doors and arches and detailed work in the wood-panelled walls. Just outside the hotel is the Terrasse Dufferin, a large boardwalk where you’ll see an array of buskers, great views of the lower town and the Saint-Lawrence River.
1 Rue des Carrières
www.fairmont.com/frontenac-quebec
3. Petit-Champlain + Funiculaire
The funicular is a cable car that ascends and descends the steep hill that separates the upper and lower town of Old Quebec. The short ride, for a small price, saves you the trouble of heading up the Breakneck Stairs. Enjoy a magnificent view of Old Quebec and the ships on the Saint-Lawrence river as you go up or down! But don’t stop there… The lower town of Old Quebec, otherwise known as le Petit Champlain, is one of the most picturesque areas of the city. Filled with shops, restaurants and cobblestone streets it’s the place to feel like you’re in Europe!
16 Rue du Petit-Champlain
www.funiculaire.ca
4. The Citadelle
The Citadelle is the oldest military building in Canada and is still active today. Take a tour inside the walls where you can see the changing of the guard ceremony at a specific time in the morning. Learn about Quebec City’s military history and how this military installation still functions today!
1 Côte de la Citadelle
www.lacitadelle.qc.ca
5. Enjoy one of the many events taking place throughout Summer!
- Le Parcours des Terrasses Gourmandes – Purchase their gastronomic package and come & feast in many different restaurants during the biggest opening of terraces in Quebec City. – June 14
- TD New France Festival – A historic festival that reconstructs the New France era from the 17th and 18th century, and is filled with cultural activities, entertainment, parades and performances. – August 1-4
6. Morrin Centre
The Morrin Centre offers visitors a myriad a reasons to visit. Firstly, this National Historic Site explores the contributions and culture of English speakers in the Quebec area. It boasts an impressive and extremely beautiful Victorian-style private library of English books. The centre was also a prison for captured British soldiers: walk through the jail cells and discover the hidden parts of Quebec’s history.
44 Chaussée des Écossais
www.morrin.org
7. The Fort Museum
This little museum offers visitors a 30 minute multimedia exhibition that chronicles the history of Quebec City battles and attacks on the city. Through the use of visual demonstrations, sound and light, dive into the famous battle on the Plains of Abraham and Benedict Arnold’s march to Québec City. The show is thoughtfully curated making it easy to grasp all the while being entertaining for families.
10 Rue Sainte-Anne
www.museedufort.com/en/
8. Musée de la Civilisation
Learn about Quebec’s History through a series of original interactive exhibitions. The museum explores the history of Quebec’s settlers and Aboriginal people, and continuously introduces new exhibitions to the museum. It’s a great excursion for adults and children alike and is both educational and fun!
85 Rue Dalhousie
www.mcq.org/en
9. Notre-Dame des Victoires Church
Dating back from 1688 it is the oldest stone church in North America and is a National Historic Site. Did you know that near Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church an outline on the ground marks the spot of the second habitation of Samuel de Champlain?
32 Sous-le-Fort Street
www.notre-dame-de-quebec.org
10. Maison de la Littérature
La Maison de la Littérature, open from Tuesday to Sunday, offers a vibrant space for self-expression, creation, and the promotion of liberal arts. Housed within the historic Wesley Temple in Quebec City, it features a public library, writing rooms, a comic book workshop, a writer’s residence, and a literary stage.
40 Saint-Stanislas Street
maisondelalitterature.qc.ca
Renowned Restaurants, Coffee Shops & Bars
From delectable meals to cozy coffee shops to vibrant bars, Quebec City offers it all. Whether you’re feeling weary from wandering and sightseeing, craving a steaming cup of joe to fuel your exploration, or simply looking to unwind and have some fun, these restaurants, bars, and cafes cater to your every need and more. If you are looking for an extensive list of where to go in this culinary hub, we invite you to have a look at our other blog article featuring the Most Delicious Old Quebec City Restaurants!
Take a look at our other articles for more inspiration:
- Things to Do in Quebec City | 22+ Local Tips | Summer 2024
- 20+ Most Delicious Old Quebec City Restaurants
- Quebec City Best Spas | 7 Beautiful Spas to Visit for 2024
Restaurants
11. Bistro L’Orygine
In the heart of Old Quebec this sleek yet cozy restaurant serves inventive and delicious plates crafted from fresh, local, organic ingredients. Celebrating the area’s lush and varied vegetables, the dishes also feature meat and fish options that are sustainably sourced. Come for lunch or dinner and get a taste of Quebec at its purest. Your tastebuds, body and friends will all thank you. With warmer weather and sunny days ahead, be sure to enjoy their stunning terrace! 36 1/2 Rue Saint-Pierre https://lorygine.com/
12. Le Lapin Sauté
This small and rustic eatery serves up French fares and delicious hares. Like their name suggests, lapin (rabbit) is a main dish, and their rabbits are raised at a nearby farm in Beauce without antibiotics or hormones. Since its opening in 1988, Le Lapin Sauté has gained a reputation for its warm dining room complete with a fireplace, and fall-off-the-bone meat. Their ingredients are locally-sourced and can be enjoyed on their lovely flowery terrace in the summer. 52 Rue du Petit Champlain https://www.lapinsaute.com/#/english
14. Va Bene par Antipasto
This spot offers a unique concept with Italian flavours to share. Create your own antipasto platter from their selection of meats, cheeses, breads and more or choose from their preselected Antipasto à deux menu! This restaurant is the perfect spot for city lovers and city dwellers, bringing to Quebec a taste of Italy, today.
48 Sous-le-Fort Street
bistrovabene.com
15. BO Cuisine D’Asie
Experience the fusion of Asian flavors and Quebec culture! Utilizing fresh local products, they offer Asian cuisine with a unique twist they call: Umami Quebec! Open Tuesday to Saturday night, and with their summer terrace now available, it’s a culinary destination not to be missed.
904 Saint-Jean Street
www.bocuisinedasie.com
16. Rafaella Ristorante
Travel to the Amalfi coast with their traditional Italian cuisine in the heart of Quebec City. Indulge in their extensive pizza and pasta menu while enjoying the breathtaking view of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac from our stunning terrace. Open daily from 11 am onwards.
21 Sous-le-Fort Street
rafaellarestaurant.com
Coffee Shops
17. Chez Boulay – Épicerie Québécoise
Chez Boulay specializes in Nordic Cuisine, drawing inspiration and flavour from the lands surrounding Quebec. They’ve infused this approach into their completely unique cafes, which serve pastries, lunch foods and specialty flavoured coffees. Even those who need to refuel on the go won’t have to sacrifice on taste, the food and drinks here are treated with the same creativity and care that goes into the fine dining restaurant. This establishment also offers a variety of 100% local Quebec items. Don’t miss out on their summer specialty: the refreshing Coffee and Mélilot Slush!
42 Côte du Palais / 2785 Laurier Blvd
https://chezboulay.com/en/comptoir-boreal/
18. La Maison Smith
Step into this bright and inviting cafe or take a moment to relax on their Parisian-style terrace. From macarons, pastries, gelato, sundaes, sandwiches, iced drinks and more, La Maison Smith is a stop that’ll tickle your tastebuds. We recommend trying their caramel mocha and pecan croissant! Their Place Royale location offers a stunning view of Old Quebec City and brings the European vibes to you!
23 Rue Notre Dame
http://maisonsmith.ca/
19. Faux Mouvements
Discover a unique specialty coffee and boutique tailored for runners in Old Quebec. Calling all running enthusiasts! Check out their calendar to stay updated on weekly running outings. With running groups accommodating all levels, this initiative offers the perfect motivation for someone looking to start . It’s a wonderful opportunity to socialize over a cup of coffee and explore the beautiful surroundings while on a run.
70 Champlain Boulevard
www.fauxmouvement.cc
20. Café Félin – Ma Langue Aux Chats
Looking for something a bit different and unique? Enjoy your coffee amidst adorable cats, offering the ultimate pet therapy session you’ve been craving.
307 Saint-Paul Street
cafemalangueauxchats.ca
The Best Bars & Pub
21. Alphonse Cuisine & Cocktail
Enter the historic former Caisse Populaire Desjardins, now transformed into a restaurant and bar showcasing cuisine rooted in Quebec’s terroir. Whether you’re stopping by to savor their impressive cocktail menu or indulge in a full meal, this spot is a must-visit in Old Quebec. Keep an eye out for the bank safe upon entering, a charming nod to the building’s rich history.
19 Jardins Street
www.alphonse.ca
22. 1608 Wine & Cheese Bar
In a beautiful room overlooking the Saint-Lawrence river, Le 1608’s stunning circular bar appears to glow in the dimly-lit room with dark wooden walls. Share a platter of fine Quebec cheese, which you can select from their refined and extensive menu, under the pendant lights that hang from the ceiling. Enjoy a cocktail in this chic and classically-elegant bar located in the Château Frontenac.
1 Rue des Carrières (Château Frontenac)
http://1608baravin.com/en/
23. L’Oncle Antoine
Set in the historic house that used to belong to Marie-Anne Barbel, an influential figure in the 18th century, l’Oncle Antoine invites you to sample their local Quebec microbrews surrounded by history. This cavernous bar envelops patrons in a dome of exposed stone. Red leather tufted couches line the walls on the inside, and during the warmer months, the bar extends outside onto their terrace. Sample scotch and whiskey from their long menu and pair your drink with a European hot dog or smoked-meat sandwich.
29 Rue Saint-Pierre
www.facebook.com/oncleantoine
24. Le Bedeau
Owned by Arnaud Marchand, the creative mind behind Chez Boulay, Comptoir Boréal, and Les Botanistes, this restaurant’s décor perfectly captures its theme of “péchés du terroir,” featuring a confessional door, a grand piece of church furniture, and even organ pipes. With an ever-evolving wine list and an original concept and menu, dining here is always a refreshing experience that you’ll never tire of.
1098 Saint-Jean Street
www.lebedeau.com
25. Bar Artefact
Nestled in the lobby of Auberge Saint-Antoine, this venue offers a delightful array of oysters, spirits, and entrees. On Saturdays and Sundays from 1-3PM, indulge in their afternoon tea which is officially back! With its cozy ambiance, it’s an ideal spot for a romantic date night or a laid-back evening with friends. Their cocktail menu frequently showcases local gems like Menaud gin, providing an authentic Quebec experience. It was also named as one of the Top 10 Best International Hotel Bar in Canada in 2023!
10 Rue Saint-Antoine
saint-antoine.com
Superb Shops
Here is a list of a few shops that are a must visit in the city. For more shopping around town, check out this list of 24+ Places For the Best Shopping in Quebec City.
26. Petit Champlain Neighbourhood
This cooperative-owned shopping district features independent boutiques, galleries, and more and is one of the oldest commercial streets in North America. Here is where you can shop everything Quebec-made. Climb up the oldest staircase in Québec City, Escalier Casse-Cou, to enjoy the most picturesque viewpoint of the Petit-Champlain!
Rue du Petit-Champlain
www.quartierpetitchamplain.com
27. Marché public Limoilou
If you want a taste of Quebec, this outdoor market in the Limoilou neighbourhood is a perfect one stop shop for artisanal products and gourmet foods, without the frills. You can fid just about anything made in the province from wine and craft beer, to jewellery and ceramics, to cheese, maple syrup and even produce. The market is ideal for finding authentically local goods as well as grabbing a fresh meal on the move.
3rd Avenue, between 8th and 9th Street
July 14th to September 22th 2024
http://marchelimoilou.com
28. Candeur Savonnerie Artisanal
If a hot bubble bath is your idea of relaxation, Candeur Savonnerie Artisanale can hook you up with artisanal soaps with a myriad of lovely scents. With ingredients hailing from Quebec, like goat’s milk and fine oils, these soaps are handcrafted with tradition in mind. 113 Rue Saint-Paul http://www.candeur.ca/
29. Martino Boutique
Bring home something specifically Canadian when you shop at Martino. Their boots, shoes and moccasins are a piece of Quebec that you can wear wherever you go, from the comforts of home to the toughest terrain. Whether you choose a traditional or modern silhouette, you’ll be supporting local Indigenous businesses in style.
35½ Rue du Petit Champlain
www.boutiquemartino.com
30. Boutique de Noël
Feeling like celebrating Christmas in July? It’s all possible thanks to the fact that Quebec City has a year-round Christmas boutique in the Old Town! Shop Christmas ornaments to bring back home and always have a souvenir of your trip to Quebec City.
47 Buade Street
www.boutiquedenoel.ca
31. 3 Poules
With one boutique in Old Quebec and one on l’Île d’Orléans, it is the creation of 3 ladies passionate about everything home related! Visit their store to bring back home some pretty decorations!
10 Côte de la Fabrique
3poulesenligne.com
