A Weekend in Quebec City: A Itinerary for the Perfect Getaway

Are you planning a weekend getaway to Quebec City? If so, you’re in for a treat! This beautiful, historic city is full of charming old-world charm and European-influenced architecture, making it the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a trip with friends. From exploring the narrow streets and charming buildings of Old Quebec to visiting museums and cultural attractions, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Quebec City.

In this blog post, we will provide you with an itinerary for the perfect weekend getaway in Quebec City. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty and culture of Quebec City!

Here are 8 ideas to do in Quebec City:

  1. Visit the Château Frontenac, a historic hotel located in Old Quebec that is a must-see landmark in the city.
  2. Explore the narrow streets and charming architecture of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  3. Visit the Musée de la Civilisation, a museum that showcases the history and culture of Quebec.
  4. Take a stroll along the Terrasse Dufferin, a promenade located along the St. Lawrence River that offers stunning views of the city and river.
  5. Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de Québec, a beautiful cathedral located in Old Quebec.
  6. Visit the Place Royale, a historic square located in Old Quebec that was the site of the first French settlement in the city.
  7. Visit the Jardin botanique de Québec, a beautiful botanical garden located in the city.
  8. Take a walk along the Plains of Abraham, a park located in the heart of the city that offers beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding area.

1. Château Frontenac

00 In front of Chateau Frontenac 3

The Château Frontenac is considered one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and is part of the Fairmont Hotels and Resorts chain. The hotel was designed by American architect Bruce Price and was completed in 1893. It is named after Louis de Buade, the Governor General of New France in the 17th century, who was also known as the Comte de Frontenac.

The Château Frontenac is a grand, castle-like building that stands 18 stories tall and features a steep, slate-covered roof and a series of towers and turrets. It is built in the Château style, which was popular in the 19th century and is characterized by its castle-like appearance and asymmetrical design. The hotel is situated on a cliff overlooking the St. Lawrence River and offers panoramic views of the river and the surrounding city.

The Château Frontenac has played host to a number of famous guests over the years, including Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and Winston Churchill, to name a few. The hotel has 611 guest rooms and suites, each of which is individually decorated and features antique furnishings and original artwork. The Château Frontenac also offers a range of amenities, including several restaurants, a spa, a fitness center, and a heated indoor pool.

In addition to its luxurious guest rooms and amenities, the Château Frontenac is also home to a number of conference and meeting rooms, making it a popular choice for business travelers. The hotel has played host to a number of important conferences and events over the years, including the Quebec Conference, where the British and Americans met to discuss the terms of the Treaty of Paris that ended the American Revolution.

Today, the Château Frontenac is a popular tourist attraction in Quebec City and is considered one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It offers a taste of luxury and history for travelers, and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city.

Bonus-Tip: Self-guided walking tour

Bring your smartphone along with you for a self-guided walking tour game in Quebec City’s. An ideal way to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks.

2. Explore the narrow streets and charming architecture

Old Quebec is known for its narrow, winding streets and charming, European-influenced architecture, and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The architecture of Old Quebec is a mix of styles, including French, British, and Canadian. The buildings are predominantly made of stone and feature steep roofs, ornate balconies, and intricate details. The neighborhood is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Château Frontenac, the Basilique Notre-Dame de Québec, and the Place Royale, which was the site of the first French settlement in the city.

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In addition to its charming architecture, Old Quebec is also home to a number of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant arts scene, and there are many opportunities to experience local culture and cuisine. The streets of Old Quebec are lined with sidewalk cafés and bistros, and the area is known for its fresh seafood and artisanal cheeses.

06 Petit Champlain 5

Old Quebec is a popular destination for tourists, and the neighborhood is always bustling with activity. It is easy to get lost in the winding streets and narrow alleys of Old Quebec, but that is part of the charm. The neighborhood is a great place to wander and explore, and there is always something new to discover. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to experience the charm of a European-influenced city, Old Quebec is a must-see destination.

3. Musée de la Civilisation

The Musée de la Civilisation is a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region. The museum was founded in 1986 and is home to a wide range of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Quebec and its people.

One of the highlights of the Musée de la Civilisation is the “People of the First Nations” exhibit, which explores the history and culture of the Indigenous peoples of Quebec. The exhibit includes a number of artifacts and interactive displays, and provides insight into the traditions and ways of life of the First Nations.

Another popular exhibit at the Musée de la Civilisation is the “History of Quebec” exhibit, which covers the history of the region from the arrival of the first Europeans to the present day. The exhibit includes a number of artifacts and interactive displays, and provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Quebec.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Musée de la Civilisation also hosts a number of temporary exhibits on a wide range of topics. Past exhibits have covered subjects such as art, science, and popular culture.

The Musée de la Civilisation is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Quebec. The museum is easily accessible by public transportation and is located in the heart of the city, making it a convenient destination for visitors.

4. Terrasse Dufferin

The Terrasse Dufferin is a promenade located in Quebec City that offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding city. The promenade is located along the river, near the Château Frontenac and the Old Port of Quebec, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

01 Champlain Monument 6

The Terrasse Dufferin is a wide, open space that is perfect for strolling and taking in the views. The promenade is lined with benches and lampposts, and there are a number of kiosks and food stands where visitors can purchase snacks and refreshments. The promenade is also home to a number of sculptures and other works of public art.

One of the highlights of the Terrasse Dufferin is the view of the St. Lawrence River, which is particularly beautiful in the evening when the sun sets. From the promenade, visitors can see the city of Quebec and the surrounding countryside, and on a clear day, it is possible to see as far as the Laurentian Mountains in the distance.

The Terrasse Dufferin is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city. The promenade is easily accessible by foot or public transportation, and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Quebec City.

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5. Basilique Notre-Dame de Québec

The Basilique Notre-Dame de Québec is the oldest Catholic Church in North America and has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada. It is known for its beautiful architecture and historic significance.

The Basilique Notre-Dame de Québec was founded in 1647 and has undergone a number of renovations and expansions over the years. The current building dates back to the early 19th century and is built in the Gothic Revival style, with a tall, pointed spire and a series of pointed arches. The interior of the basilica is equally impressive, with high vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and ornate decorations.

The basilica is home to a number of beautiful works of art and the porte sainte.

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The porte sainte, or “holy door,” is a special door at the cathedral that is traditionally sealed shut and only opened during the Jubilee Year, which is a year designated by the Catholic Church as a time of special grace and forgiveness of sins.

In addition to its architectural and historical significance, the Basilique Notre-Dame de Québec is also an important spiritual and cultural center for the city. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Quebec City.

6. Place Royale

9. Place Royale 11

The historic square is considered one of the city’s most important landmarks and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is surrounded by a number of historic buildings, including the Maison Jacquet, which is the oldest stone house in Quebec City, and the Église Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, which is the oldest stone church in the city.

The Place Royale was the site of the first French settlement in Quebec City, and is considered the birthplace of the city. It was founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, who established a trading post on the site. The square has played a central role in the history of the city, and has been the site of many important events and landmarks over the years.

Today, the Place Royale is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and cafes, and is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city. The square is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions, including the Centre d’Interprétation de Place-Royale, which is a museum that tells the story of the city’s history.

The Place Royale is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Quebec City. It is a beautiful, historic square that is full of charm and character, and is a great place to learn about the city’s history and culture.

7. Jardin botanique de Québec

The Jardin botanique de Québec is a botanical garden that is home to a wide range of plants and flowers, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Jardin botanique de Québec is spread over a large area and is home to a number of themed gardens, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a butterfly garden. The garden is also home to a number of greenhouses, which are home to a wide range of tropical and exotic plants.

One of the highlights of the Jardin botanique de Québec is the Arboretum, which is home to a collection of trees and shrubs from around the world. The arboretum is a beautiful, peaceful place to walk and relax, and is a great place to learn about different species of plants.

In addition to its beautiful gardens and greenhouses, the Jardin botanique de Québec is also home to a number of educational programs and events. The garden hosts a number of workshops and classes on topics such as gardening and plant care, and is a great place to learn about the natural world.

The Jardin botanique de Québec is a beautiful, peaceful destination that is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of nature, and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Quebec City.

8. Plains of Abraham

The Plains of Abraham is a large, open space that is perfect for picnics, outdoor concerts, and other events. The park is home to a number of attractions, including a number of historic landmarks and cultural institutions. One of the highlights of the Plains of Abraham is the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, which is a museum that features a wide range of art from Quebec and around the world.

The park is also home to a number of sporting facilities, including a number of playing fields and a cycling track. The Plains of Abraham is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and is a great place to enjoy a wide range of activities, from cycling and running to picnicking and relaxing.

The Plains of Abraham is a beautiful, peaceful destination that is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city, and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Quebec City.


Bonus: 5 off-the-beaten-path places

Need more ideas? Here are five off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Old Quebec:

  1. Musée de la civilisation – This museum is a little-known gem that is filled with interesting exhibits on Quebec’s history and culture.
  2. Le Boutillier Family Farm – Located just outside of Old Quebec, this family-run farm offers a unique opportunity to see and learn about rural life in Quebec.
  3. Eglise Notre-Dame-de-Foy – This beautiful church is located in the suburb of Sainte-Foy and is worth a visit for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
  4. Jardin de Métis – This beautiful garden, located in the town of Grand-Métis, is a perfect spot for a peaceful walk and features a number of stunning plant and flower displays.
  5. Parc de la Chute-Montmorency – Located just outside of Old Quebec, this park is home to a beautiful waterfall that is a must-see for nature lovers. In addition to the waterfall, the park also offers a number of hiking and biking trails.

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