vieux quebec

Here is a list of the most notable things to do in wonderful Quebec City during the Summer From sightseeing to restaurant recommendations, you’re sure to find something that’ll pique your fancy.

Take a look at our other articles for more inspiration:

• Old Quebec City: 34+ Exciting Things to Do
• 20+ Most Delicious Old Quebec City Restaurants
• Quebec City Best Spas | 7 Beautiful Spas to Visit

1. Explore the new beach station on the Promenade Samuel-De Champlain… plus it’s free!

The promenade in itself is a beautiful place to discover lookout points. But, the beach station along the way is definitely a unique and must visit experience! It includes a pool overlooking the Saint-Lawrence river with a 300 people capacity, a large picnic area with BBQs as well as some beach volleyball courts and a terrace & restaurant area. Pack your best swimsuit and come enjoy the sun!

2. Walk through Old Quebec

Old Quebec is what you see in the fairytale-like pictures of Quebec City. Surrounded by fortifications, it’s the only walled-city in North America, North of Mexico, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can spend hours, a day or your whole trip discovering this quaint area. Our suggestions:

• Stroll in the old European-like streets
• Enjoy a café glacé on the Parisian-inspired terrace of Place Royale
• Shop in galleries on Rue Sault-au-Matelot or antiques on Rue Saint-Paul
• Get a picture with the Château Frontenac on the Dufferin Terrace
• Take a break of walking and enjoy a take-out lunch on the Pierre-Dugua-Des-Mons Terrace
• See the Fresque des Québécois and the most beautiful street in Canada in Petit Champlain neighbourhood

3. Take the Old Quebec City Food Tour

The Old Quebec Food Tour is where foodies and history enthusiasts unite. While you walk the cobblestone streets, your passionate, local tour guide recounts the vibrant history of this area. In 3 hours you stop in 6 different tasting locations, like a traditional French bakery, a 17th-century Monastery, and more! There’s no better way to learn about a city’s heritage than to be guided by a local and to taste its delicious, traditional food. For more information, click here.

4. Chill out at L’Oasis du Port de Quebec

Open once again this year on June 23rd, The Oasis is located in the Louise Basin at the Port of Quebec and offers a multitude of things to do from a swimming area with Olympic-sized swimming lanes to free to the public relation areas and facilities to one of the most beautiful terraces in Old Quebec. Plan the perfect afternoon here with a little swim, drink at the bar and a picnic on the docks! Plus, they even have wifi if you plan on doing some work. Be sure to check out their events as well.

5. Discover the best new restaurants in town

Quebec City is definitely a foodie town and new restaurants are always popping up. Get ahead of the crowd and discover these new hot spots:

• Ouroboros restaurant – Offering lively cuisine & wines that change seasonally, this 45 seat restaurant also has a market every week where you can buy products including local vegetables.
• Rafaella Ristorante – Traditional Italian cuisine in the heart of Quebec City. Sit on their stunning terrace with an incredible view of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.
• Restaurant Va Bene – 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!
• Restaurant Tanière³ – Undeniably modern, yet deeply rooted with its historic cellar location, Tanière³ pushes the boundaries of what Quebecois cuisine can be. Sit at the Chef’s Counter for a look at where the magic happens as you savour each course of the blind tasting menu.
• Ma Maison – Traditional French Canadian cooking just like your Quebecois mother or grandmother would’ve made it. This cozy restaurant sends you back in time, but to somewhere comfortingly familiar.
• Honō Izakaya – Unique Japanese dishes you can’t find elsewhere in Quebec. This little spot in the heart of St. Roch may be a little hard to find, but is absolutely worth a try. Get a few dishes to share with your friends after work.
• Le Ket’Chose – A sweet bistro in Limoilou, it’s fine dining with a comfortably casual vibe. They serve exquisitely delicious dishes that are meant to be shared, and have a little wine list of carefully chosen private import wines. 

–> See our complete list of the best restaurants in Old Quebec

6. Explore your area’s nightlife scene

For a historical town, Quebec City still has it’s big share of party-goers. In every district you will find a different nightlife atmosphere. Here are our suggestions to explore beyond the city walls:

• Saint-Roch – Noctem, Korrigane, MacFly Barcade, Deux22
• Saint-Sauveur – Griendel, Chez Tao, Kraken Cru
• Saint-Jean-Baptiste – La Ninkasi St-Jean, Pub Nelligan’s, Le Projet

7. Take the car on a day trip

• Vignoble St-Pétronille  – With a boutique, tasting room and terrace that opened back on May first and their restaurant reopening May 22nd, discover their biological wines!
• Cassis Monna & Filles  – As a fifth generation of liquorist, this family business uses blackcurrants to create a multitude of products from alcoholic beverages to other by-products including jams! You can visit their wine cellar, boutique & economuseum to learn more.
• Chocolaterie de l’île d’Orléans – Enjoy a sweet treat with a beautiful view
• Ferme Jean-Pierre Plante – where you can pick your own strawberries and other berries such as raspberries, blueberries and cassis!
• Confiturerie Tigidou – produces jams exclusively using fruits from l’Île d’Orléans.
• Pub le Mitan – A bistro microbrewery with an incredible view on this terrace! Enjoy their seasonal dishes as well as their extensive drink menu from their beers, to cocktails and even their “apéros à la bière” selection!

8. Look out from Observatoire de la Capitale

Get the best view of Quebec City! Located on the topmost floor of the Marie-Guyart Building, Observatoire de la Capitale gives you 360 bird’s eye view of the city. Decorated with a wall-to-wall infographic timeline of Quebec City’s history you can even learn a few things at the same time.
– 1037, rue De La Chevrotière, 31st floor

9. Explore the city by bike

Pack a lunch, rent a bike with Cyclo Services and head on the cycling paths in one of these directions:

• Promenade Champlain – On this path that follows the Saint-Lawrence river you can enjoy a couple of nice places to stop in like the Bassin Brown Lookout on the river, Quai des Cageux, and a view of the Quebec Bridge.
• Wendake Huron Village – See the First Nations culture at the amazing museum of First Nations & Hotel and take the time to see the impressive waterfall Kabir-Kouba. And if you’re hungry, the Sagamité restaurant is a must-try of native flavours.

Book a 3 hour guided Tour Of The Hidden Treasures Of Old Quebec and Limoilou By Electric Bike (& Coffee Break) with Tuque et Bicycles Expérience. With the electric bike (18+) that adapts to your energy level, it is an activity for everyone!

10. Get in touch with nature at Parc de la Chute-Montmorency

The Montmorency Falls are a must-see attraction just outside of Quebec City. Head to the top of the waterfall by the cable-car, cross the suspension bridge over the falls and enjoy a spectacular view of the area’s waterways and parkland. If you’re feeling fit, you can also climb to the top using the impressive staircase, or take a hike on the surrounding trails. You don’t have to go far from the city to be amazed by nature’s splendour! While you’re there, take a ride on the zipline and have a meal at the Manoir Montmorency to get the full experience.  

11. Enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the many coffee shops around the city!

Quebec City has become more and more of a coffee lover’s dream, with many cafes waiting to be discovered.

• Café Olive – Experience Europe in the heart of the city at this charming and highly Instagrammable mini coffee shop.
• Café Saint-Henri – What better way to kickstart your day than with a delicious coffee and freshly baked donut? Plus, you can elevate your coffee game by joining one of their coffee training classes!
• Maelstrom Saint-Roch – This place is a city hotspot, doubling as a cozy coffee shop during the day and a cocktail bar by night. With daily brunch offerings and a no-reservation policy, it’s the perfect spot for any time of day.
• Épicerie Québécoise – Chez Boulay – This establishment offers not only delightful homemade products but also a variety of 100% local Quebec items. Don’t miss out on their summer specialty: the refreshing Coffee and Mélilot Slush!
• Micro Roastery: Cantook Micro Torréfaction or Nektar – Indulge in the passion-infused, freshly roasted coffee from their micro roastery. Come and savor the artisanal experience firsthand!
• Cat Cafés: Chats-Nous or 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.

12. Have an apéro or enjoy a nice meal on a terrace

Summer is short in Quebec, so you better make the most of it! Step outside at these places to get comfortable while enjoying the fresh air.

• L’Orygine – From Tuesday to Sunday starting at 5pm and with brunch available on Sundays, enjoy their organic dishes and a cocktail or pick a wine from their wine selection on their picturesque terrace.
• Terrasse du Diamant – A reservations only terrace with an amazing view of Old Quebec available Wednesdays to Sundays starting at 3pm.
• Quai 1635 – With to go options as well as sit down areas, both locations offer amazing views along the river! Open everyday of the week starting at 11am (Lévis location opening may 17th), they serve tapas & seafood to accompany their many local & artisanal beer selection.
• Le Sacrilège – With a newly redone terrace for 2024, come discover their outdoor seating in the backyard, so hidden it will seem like you’re in a speakeasy. More than a charming atmosphere, Le Sacrilège also has deals on local beer! After a day exploring the city, come here for a delectable and effective wind-down, the way locals do it.
• La Barberie – As soon as the sun is out,  all the locals head over to the outdoor beer garden of La Barberie. Enjoy this space quietly on weekday afternoons while all the locals are at work or come to see this place bustling with life after 5pm. Order the carousel, a flight of 8 beer tastings, and introduce your tastebuds to the distinct flavours of Quebec City’s local craft beers.
• Café du Monde – Come to this Parisian inspired bistro first and foremost for exceptional views of the St. Lawrence River. As you look out, enjoy eating beautifully prepared French classics and soaking in the friendly atmosphere. Get the most out of it with their fixed price menu, which starts under $30.
• Le Cendrillon – This Limoilou spot is the perfect place for a 5 à 7 or even late night bites – the kitchen is open until midnight Thursday to Saturday, just like the fairytale it’s named after. Make sure you order their oysters, a couple other dishes to share amongst you, some wine and you’ll be set for the night. Their cozy and inviting space is full of locals any day of the week (except Monday).

13. Soak-up some Quebec art and heritage

Beyond the city’s grand museums, a visit to the historic sites and landmarks of Quebec will reveal the intimate and personal stories of people who walked the city’s streets centuries ago, and the ones who built them.

• La Citadelle de Québec – This striking fortress on the Plains of Abraham is a museum of military history. While you’re there, make sure to take its stunning views of Old Montreal, the Chateau Frontenac and St. Lawrence river. 
• Morrin Centre – Military barracks, public prison, prestigious college and now cultural centre, this space has seen a lot. Step into its diverse shoes to get a real taste of the past. 
• Maison de la Littérature – Nestled in a Gothic Revival church is a library and hub for all things literary. For those of you who speak (some) french, countless stories await… even ones that haven’t been written yet. 
• Monastère des Augustines – Inspired by the work of the Augustinian Sisters of Quebec, this monastery is now a wellness centre where you can view archival exhibitions, have a cup of tea and even rent a room. Here, you’ll discover a perspective on holistic well-being that’s rooted in history.
• Maison Alphonse-Desjardins – Go back to the 1900s and take a tour of this Victorian home who belonged to the founders of the Desjardins Group. The admission to the museum is free and open year-round but you can also experience dynamic tours of the house. 
• Saint-Nicolas Presbytery – Dating back from 1825, you will find substantial art and heritage exhibits in this historic building located in Levis with a view of the Saint-Lawrence river.

14. Go to one of Quebec’s many festivals

A summer in Quebec is a summer of festivals. From beer to music festivals, and from comedy to historical fairs. Here is a list of the most notable ones:

• 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
• Fete de la ville de Québec – Come celebrate 416e anniversary of the funding of Quebec by Samuel de Champlain.
  – July 3
• The FEQ (Festival d’été de Québec) – This music festival accommodates 1.5 million people. Its performances takes place across many venues throughout the city.
  – July 4-14
• Le Festival ComediHa! – A comedy festival that features a number of major comedians. This is the place to go for a good time, and guarantees laughter. At least one English show is available every night.
  – August 1-24
• 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
• Le Festibière de Québec – A beer festival that allows you discover the unique tastes of Quebec through microbreweries, brewpubs, cider, local produce and samples in an open-air and festive atmosphere.
  – August 15-18

15. Enjoy a unique shopping experience

There’s nothing like taking home a special souvenir to remember your trip by, but these stores aren’t just your average gift shop. Why not wear your memories of Quebec City while supporting a local designer or even hang them on your Christmas tree.

• Camellia Sinensis – Situated on St-Joseph in the St-Roch neighbourhood, this super zen and newly renovated tea shop offers tea tastingsand excellent artisanal products. So stop by, grab a drink and talk with the super friendly tea experts. A good cup of tea can go a long way!
• Jupon Pressé – With hints of retro style in every piece, Jupon Pressé has a selection of clothes from funky dresses to whimsical outfits. Their collection is a mix of pieces from Quebec designers as well as international designers. Think pastel cardigans and jackets, cute accessories and classic basics.
• Boutique de Noël – Yes 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.
• 3 Poules (Côte de la Fabrique) – With on 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 decoration!
• Coeur de Loup – A womenswear boutique for trendy and creative clothes, made entirely in Quebec. For spring and summer they have lots of floral and patterned dresses – with an edge – as well as on oh-so-cute line of swimwear. You can also find their pieces at Jupon Pressé.

16. Dine in an upscale Quebecois restaurant

Quebec city has some amazing fine-dining cuisine. From traditional French style to locally-sourced modern inspiration, you can splurge on a whole variety of great eats, though recently the restaurants are especially drawing from local food traditions. We recommend: 

• Chez Boulay Bistro Boréal – Taste the flavours of Canada’s forests through their emphasis on local boreal ingredients that you can’t find anywhere else. Think wild mushrooms and delicious flavours from fir tree essence and birch syrup. Enjoy their Nordic-inspired cuisine in their stylish, modern dining room made up of chocolate wood.
• Le Saint-Amour – This restaurant serves you innovation in plating using local cuisine. The gourmet French fares are the perfect combination of fresh ingredients and extensive culinary experience, which all adds up to a visual feast. In a setting reminiscent of Paris’ Belle Epoque, it’s one of the leading fine-dining restaurants in Canada.
• Laurie Raphaël – Experience gustatory poetry made from seasonal ingredients. For refined and creative French-Québécois dishes and a wide range of wines, get dressed-up and head to Laurie Raphaël. Located at the Quebec City Saint-Germain hotel, the setting is sleek and glamorous.
• Légende – A tour of Quebec’s culinary history, Légende draws inspiration from local foods and Indigenous traditions. With a menu that celebrates our land, our forests, our rivers, you’ll be able to get a taste of nature like never before. Share a couple small plates with friends, or try out a tasting menu for a full experience,

17. Eat poutine at 3am

Once all the bars in St. Roch close for the night, there’s one more thing you have to do. This is Quebec, after all, so stop by Casse-Croute Chez Gaston for some late night poutine. The diner is a favourite with locals and open until 4am Thursday-Saturday. Even the late night partiers want that proper Quebec poutine: squeaky cheese curds and all.

18. Spend a day in Limoilou

Limoilou is one of the smaller older districts of Quebec City that has recently been transformed and overcome with a wave of the new generation. It is now young, hip and composed of artisans, business-people and families alike. Around every corner lies a delicious bistro, an artistic workshop, and a local boutique.

• Start off your day at Boîte à Pain, a bakery with really good croissants, bread, sandwiches, soups, and real fire-oven Napoli pizzas or enjoy a full brunch at Chez Maude Épicerie Laboratoire Culinaire focusing on local cuisine and a favorite of many locals!
• Next– go shopping! Limoilou’s streets are filled with one of a kind shops like Article 721, which sells local gadgets, thingy-ma-bobs, and an array of unique products. Also check out La Folle Fourchette that sells unique kitchen products. These are stores where creativity is at its peak. You’ll find the perfect gift for the child, the woman or the man in your life!
• After some spending, make sure to refuel at tea or coffee shop, like Le Lièvre et la Tortue, le Nektar Caféologue and Babeurre Délicatesses.
• To get your fill of culture, browse the art at  Les Trafiquants d’Art Gallery & Frame Makers, which is set up in the style of a record store so you can flip through to find your favourite pieces.
• Walk back into the city center using the walking/cycling path along the Saint Charles River, which is lined with observation points, lovely scenic views like that of Parc Cartier-Bréboeuf, and lots of fresh air.
• Or continue strolling the 3rd Avenue and find the perfect neighbourhood bar. We urge you to go try Le Bal du Lézard, a small vintage looking bar that host shows and offers good music and a fun atmosphere. If you’re more the craft beer type, head to La Souche for a fresh brew around a log table, hence its name! You can also try one of the many restaurants that has opened its door in the neighbourhood including ARVI with its fixed price menu offering a unique experience where the cooks are also the servers for the night!

19. See the Grands Feux Loto-Quebec

For eight nights from August 1st to the 24 Quebec City’s skies are lit up at 10 pm by the annual spectacle that is the Grands Feux Loto-Quebec fireworks. Come enjoy the magnificent show Quai Paquet in Lévis or at Place des Canotiers in Québec starting at 6pm. And it’s all free!

20. Take the ferry to the south shore of the St. Lawrence river

Buy a round-trip ferry ticket to go to the city of Lévis and enjoy the best view of Quebec City, directly on the river. Enjoy the day in Levis and come back into town at sunset! Here is some things to do while you’re in Levis:

• Grab coffee at Bonté Divine
• Visit Maison Alphonse-Desjardins
• Climb the Escalier Rouge for stunning views of the city
• Grab a drink at Pub Corsaire 

Cool things to do in other cites:

• Things to Do in Toronto this Summer
• Things to Do in Montreal this Summer