With most people visiting only Toronto and Montreal while on the east coast of Canada, Quebec City might seem slightly off the beaten track.
However, this stunning city with a European feel and francophone culture will pleasantly surprise you.
Its fascinating location on the top of the cliff overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, spectacular skyline and the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are only some guarantees that you will not be disappointed.
Quebec City is the capital of the Canadian province of Quebec.
French is the official language in Quebec, but most locals speak English at least a little (especially in tourist areas).
Signs in French, cobblestone streets and historical buildings will make you feel like you are in France.
Quebec is a beautiful city; you could easily spend a few days here.
But, if you are short of time, it’s possible to see most of the city centre in just one day.
One-Day Itinerary
The good news is that the city centre is compact, so it can be easily explored on foot.
There are plenty of exciting sights, museums and churches in the area but we only mention the landmarks important for navigation.
The Old Town (Vieux-Quebec) is divided into the lower and upper parts, and the original city walls surround it.
Quebec City is the only walled North American city located north of Mexico.
Lower Old Town (Basse-Ville)
Start at the Place Royale, a small square, and explore the pretty alleys and historic houses in the area.
We couldn’t believe that we were in North America and not Europe!
Don’t miss the charming Rue du Petit-Champlain that was once voted the most beautiful street in Canada.
Stop at Fresque des Quebecois and admire this beautiful mural painting that will take you back into the city’s history.
Follow the steep stairs behind the fresco to get to the Upper Old Town.
If you can’t or don’t want to climb the stairs, go back towards the river and take the funicular (Le Funiculaire).
Upper Old Town (Haute-Ville)
The majestic Chateau Frontenac dominates the upper part of the Old Town – supposedly, it’s the most photographed hotel in the world.
You can look inside and have something to eat or drink, or just admire the luxurious interior, even if you don’t stay in the hotel.
Follow the Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin) for beautiful views of the river and the Levis cliffs on the other side.
Just before the citadel, walk uphill for the city’s most amazing views – including the Old Town, Chateau Frontenac, the port and the river.
It’s a perfect place for a break or picnic.
Come back to the boardwalk and follow the stairs to the star-shaped citadel (La Citadelle), North America’s largest fort.
You can get inside but only with a guided tour.
Outside the Old City Walls
Battlefields Park (Parc des Champs-de-Bataille), including the Plains of Abraham (Les Plaines d’Abraham) is Canada’s first National Historical Park.
It looks peaceful now, but it was the site of the famous Battle of Quebec in 1759.
The British defeated the French here, and their influence in the area increased significantly.
Walk on the fortification walls to pass by the Parliament Building (L’Hotel du Parlement) and the Tourny Fountain (La Fontaine de Tourny) on your left-hand side.
Keep following the fortification walls until you reach Saint Jean Street (Rue St-Jean).
Stroll along the street and explore the area full of shops, restaurants and bars.
Keep walking towards the river to finish the loop at the Chateau Frontenac.
Where to Eat
We learnt about Le Buffet de l’Antiquaire by coincidence.
While walking on the city fortification walls, we met an American guy and started chatting.
He recommended this place, and he was right; it’s a nice restaurant with good food.
Make sure you try poutine – a dish originating in Quebec that consists of French fries, cheese curds and gravy.
It’s typical comfort food – not bringing any health benefits but very satisfying!
Extra Tip – Levis
Take the ferry across the river to Levis for stunning views of Quebec City’s skyline.
It takes just about 15 minutes, and there are frequent connections.
If your budget is low, find your accommodation in Levis, as it’s cheaper than staying in Quebec City.
In the morning, you can park your car at the lookout point on the top of the cliff for free, leave it there for the day and walk to the ferry port, which is nearby.
While in Levis, you have to try the renowned ice cream dipped in chocolate in Chocolats Favoris.
It had been recommended to us by our Airbnb host, and we loved it.
It’s a must-try in Levis, so get ready to queue.
Getting Around
The public transportation system RTC is a system of buses; there is no subway in Quebec City.
It’s a good idea to avoid driving in the Old Town because there are many one-way and narrow streets, and parking is limited and expensive.
There is a funicular connecting the lower and upper parts of Old Quebec (Le Funiculaire du Vieux-Quebec).
If possible, we recommend walking the steep stairs instead – you will be rewarded with beautiful views of the Old Town.
Getting There
The most convenient and quickest way to get to Quebec City is by air.
Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) is the closest airport (16 km/10 miles).
There are only a few international connections, and most flights are via major hubs in Canada or the USA.
The airport is served only by public buses or taxis, and there are several car rental companies too.
Montreal Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is located further from Quebec City (276 km/172 miles).
It’s a bigger airport that offers more international flights – you can get to Quebec City by air, car, train or bus from there.
Quebec City is well connected with the rest of Canada by motorways, trains or buses.
Distances between places are huge, so it usually takes a few hours to get from one city to another.
Final Thoughts
Quebec City is a charming place that is definitely worth a visit.
It’s one of the prettiest cities we have been to.
It’s so different from the rest of Canada, and you shouldn’t miss it on your trip to the east coast.
Bonus
We’ve teamed up with GPSmyCity so that you can use this ‘One Day Only – Quebec City’ guide on your trip.
This mobile app comes with a GPS map and works offline, so you don’t need to worry about an internet connection or a data plan.
You can download it here.
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