Visiting Quebec City? Allow me to show you how you can get the most out of your time in Quebec City with our blog post – Quebec City 3 day itinerary. If you are searching for the perfect itinerary which provides options for Budget, Family and Luxury then you’ve found it. From dining options, accommodation, activities and more – this blog post shares some insight into Quebec City, so YOU are prepared for your trip.
If you are looking for things to do in Quebec City then head over to our blog post – Best Things to do in Quebec City.
If you are looking for more information on Quebec City head to – Quebec City – Everything YOU need to know . This blog post cover’s everything YOU need to know before traveling to Quebec City, from language barriers, culture, safety and more.
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Low Budget – 3 Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Wandering through the City
Explore Place Royal
Place Royale is a historic plaza known for housing the renowned Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church. Significantly, it is the birthplace of French civilization in North America. The square is highly photogenic, featuring numerous brightly painted doors and windows.
During the summer, window baskets overflow with vibrant flowers. In the winter, a light layer of snow covers everything, complemented by holiday decorations and a Christmas tree in the center of the plaza.
Don’t miss the chance to peek inside the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church. This small Roman Catholic church, constructed between 1687 and 1723 and restored in 1816, features ornate interior decorations and a small souvenir shop. I also recommend enjoying a coffee on the patio or exploring the shops in the area.
If you’re visiting in the summer, you can also admire exhibits from the Passages Insolites outdoor art exhibition around Lower Town. These art installations can be found at Place Royale, Quartier Petit Champlain, and beyond.
Quartier Du Petit Champlain
Just beyond Place Royale lies Quartier Petit Champlain, a charming and popular neighborhood in Lower Town. This area is one of the most favored shopping streets, filled with numerous local souvenir shops and delightful treats.
Quartier Petit Champlain is one of the most expensive places to shop due to its beauty and popularity, so expect to pay a premium for some items. However, there are a few shops offering unique items crafted by local artisans that you won’t find anywhere else.
In addition to the shops, Quartier Petit Champlain features a few small parks and some intriguing murals. During our three-day stay in Quebec City, we strolled through both Quartier Petit Champlain and Place Royale numerous times.
I recommend visiting these popular tourist attractions early in the morning or in the evening, as they are most crowded in the afternoon. Now, it’s time to venture to the upper section of Old Quebec. Would you prefer to ride the funicular or walk up the Breakneck Stairs?
Old Quebec Funicular
I recommend taking the funicular up and walking down the stairs. Be prepared to pay $5 in cash for the funicular ride, as they do not accept other forms of payment. Tickets are not sold in advance; you can purchase them when you arrive.
The funicular is free of charge for wheelchair users and children under 46 inches tall. It also accommodates strollers and pets. For the latest details on opening times and prices, please visit the official funicular website.
Notre Dame de Quebec Cathedral-Basiclica
This cathedral is the oldest parish in North America, north of Mexico. Inside, you’ll find lavish gold decorations and beautiful stained glass windows. The grounds also feature a courtyard and a garden.
If you get the chance defintiely try to visit and pass through the Holy Door. Quebec City’s Holy Door is the only one found outside of Europe and one of only seven worldwide. It was established in 2013 during the 350th anniversary of the founding of the Notre-Dame de Quebec parish and will be sealed after December 8th 2024. More information on the Holy Door can be found here.
Umbrella Alley
If you haven’t seen the images of this beautiful alley way full with a roof of colourful, vibrant umbrella’s then I’d definitely recommend checking it out! Unfortunately when we visited in April 2023 there were no umbrellas. I am not sure if there is a schedule throughout the year when the umbrellas are up but because there are other spots to checkout in the area it is still worth checking out the alley even if the umbrella’s aren’t there.
Terrasse Dufferin
Once you reach the top, you’ll encounter the iconic Chateau Frontenac, a renowned hotel in the city. It’s considered to be the most photographed hotel in the world, so why not join in on the fun and snap a few pictures?
You can often hear musicians and singers performing on the boardwalk, Dufferin Terrace. If you’re interested, you can take a walk inside the Chateau Frontenac or even have a drink at the bar, even if you’re not staying there.
Chateau Frontenac
Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1892 and inspired by the chateaus of France’s Loire Valley, Chateau Frontenac has been expanded and renovated numerous times over the last century while still retaining its iconic appearance and charm.
The lower two floors are open to the public, so you can freely explore the shops, restaurants, and elegant interior design without hesitation. In fact, Le Château Frontenac is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quebec City.
Standing along the Terrasse Dufferin for sunset and admiring the beauty of the Chateau Frontenac with the warm luminous colours in the sky is something you should definitely do whilst spending your time in Quebec City.
Dinner at Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac Champlain Restaurant
With an amazing menu and a beautiful smart, fine dining setting this is a perfect place for couples, families and the solo traveler wishing to indulge. “First opened in 1893, Champlain Restaurant is a fine-dining destination without compare in Quebec City. Effortlessly blending 19th-century charm with present-day design, our inspirational French cuisine and fine wines are available in the evenings or for the best Sunday brunch in Quebec.” – Champlain Restaurant
Day 2
Rue Saint-Jean
One of the oldest streets in the city, Rue Saint-Jean starts in the heart of Upper Town, near the Hôtel de Ville (city hall). Originally laid out in the 17th century to connect a country estate to the city, it now links old Québec City to its newer neighborhoods west of the historic center. Today, it’s one of the city’s most vibrant shopping areas. Within the city walls, the street caters largely to travelers, featuring bars, restaurants, gelaterias, and popcorn stores. Francophones looking for books in French should visit the excellent Librairie Pantoute. Beyond the Saint-Jean Gate, the street boasts more independent stores and cafés.
Explore J.A. Moisan
As the oldest grocery store in North America, we couldn’t resist checking it out. It had a variety of interesting items, though nothing particularly unique that I haven’t seen at home.
For visitors from overseas, this store might be more intriguing. Although you might find items like maple syrup and other Canadian products for cheaper elsewhere, the store still offers a wonderful selection of tasty treats.
Musee National Des Beaux-Arts Du Quebec
Located in the heart of the Plains of Abraham, the National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec (MNBAQ) is an irresistible destination that combines stunning architecture and nature. It boasts a magnificent reference collection of Quebec art, offering a comprehensive panorama of the region’s art history from the 17th century to today, with over 42,000 works in its collection. The museum also regularly hosts international exhibitions.
Beyond its exhibitions, the MNBAQ provides a rich cultural experience for all visitors. It offers a variety of cultural activities for all audiences, has the largest collection of art books in Quebec at its Librairie-Boutique, and features the Café Québecor by Laurent Godbout for a delightful culinary experience.
Battlefields Park
Battlefields Park is a fantastic outdoor recreational site located right in the heart of the city! In the winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing along the groomed trails, or skate on the ice rink. In the summer, the park transforms into a popular picnic spot where you can enjoy lunch under the shade of century-old maple trees. You can also go jogging, attend an outdoor concert at the Edwin Bélanger Bandstand, or relax with a book in the Joan of Arc Garden.
Explore the Plains of Abraham
The Plains of Abraham are historically significant as the site where French troops were defeated by the British in a pivotal battle in Canadian history.
Due to its heritage, the Plains of Abraham have been designated a National Historic Park of Canada. Battlefields Park is also recognized as one of the most prestigious urban parks in the world.
History enthusiasts should visit the Plains of Abraham Museum to learn more about the battles that occurred here in 1759 and 1760. The museum offers both interactive exhibits and guided tours to provide an in-depth understanding of these historic events.
Citadelle de Québec
Perched on Cap Diamant, the Fortress of Old Quebec is a national historic site that showcases over 300 years of history with buildings dating back to New France. Known as the “Gibraltar of America,” its star shape is characteristic of Vauban fortifications. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Quebec and the river. Guided tours are available year-round, and the entry fee includes access to exhibitions at the Musée Royal 22e Régiment.
Interested? Get your tickets here!
Quebec Parliament Building
The Parliament Building, constructed between 1877 and 1886, is an impressive structure with four wings forming a large square. Its architecture, inspired by the Louvre Palace in Paris, makes it one of the few French-style institutional buildings in Québec City. As Québec’s oldest historic site and the seat of its government, the building’s main facade features 26 bronze statues commemorating key historical figures. It is a captivating place filled with secrets and surprises.
You can take a free guided tour of the Parliament, where the national assembly’s 125 members make decisions affecting the province. The 75-minute tour explores the history and workings of Québec’s parliamentary institutions, as well as the history of the province itself. After the tour, enjoy a meal at Le Parlementaire, a stylish restaurant serving delicious local products. It’s one of the hill’s best-kept secrets!
Day 3
Montmorency Falls
Standing at 83 meters (272.3 feet) high, Montmorency Falls is a spectacular sight, towering 30 meters (98.4 feet) higher than Niagara Falls. Whether in summer or winter, the falls are breathtaking. Located just 15 minutes from Old Québec in Montmorency Falls Park, this is a destination you won’t want to miss, where the St. Lawrence River stretches out near the base of the cliffs.
Visitors can choose between wonder and adventure during their visit. Take a cable car to the top of the cliff for a unique vantage point of the falls. The view is stunning, even in winter! Cross the suspended bridge to the belvedere to feel the power of the river as it thunders past.
For the adventurous, there are three via ferrata routes up the cliff, or you can zoom over the plunge pool on the double zipline 300 meters (984 feet) in the air.
You can also learn about the site’s fascinating history at the interpretation center. In the summer, enjoy a picnic at the historical orchard and test your endurance by climbing the 487 steps of the panoramic staircase. Food enthusiasts will appreciate one of the best brunches in the region, served at the Montmorency Manor.
Shopping at Place Ste-Foy
With lot’s of shopping centers in the surround area, there are plenty of options. We however opted for the shopping center Place Ste-Foy as it had more modern shops such as – Apple, ARITZIA, GAP, GUESS, Lacoste, Lululemon, Sephora, Simons, ZARA and more.
High Budget – 3 Day Itinerary
Day 1
Private Historical Tour of Ile d’Orleans – from $717
New for 2024: This historic tour of Île d’Orléans offers an opportunity to explore a beautiful region nearby. This 3-hour fully guided tour provides an in-depth look at the island’s history, landscapes, nature, and heritage. You will discover major heritage sites, including around 2,000 heritage and agricultural buildings and 21 classified historic monuments, such as Norman-style houses from Canada’s French colonial period.
Île d’Orléans, known as the cradle of New France, is home to 317 pioneer families. The island’s rich history includes shipbuilding, river pilots, rural and maritime life, and French-Canadian Catholic traditions.
For more details, visit the Private Historical Tour of Île d’Orléans page on Viator.
Quebec: Aquarium du Quebec Entry Ticket – from $29
Use your ticket to explore Quebec City’s unique indoor and outdoor aquarium. Outside, you can visit habitats featuring walruses, seals, and arctic foxes. Inside, you’ll find a variety of aquatic displays showcasing fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. Enjoy the diverse marine life and learn about the fascinating creatures that inhabit our waters.
For more details, visit the Quebec: Aquarium du Quebec Entry Ticket page on Get Your Guide.
Day 2
Quebec City: Hop-on Hop-off Open-Top Double Decker Bus Tour – from $72
Explore the sights of Québec City at your own pace with a 1- or 2-day ticket for the open-top, double-decker hop-on hop-off bus. With 15 stops along the route, you can jump off and on as you please, enjoying panoramic views of the city as you go.
For more details, visit the Quebec City: Hop-on Hop-off Open-Top Double Decker Bus Tour page on Viator.
Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City – from $289
Quebec City is renowned for its food and history, and this small-group tour offers an immersive experience of both. Explore top restaurants and historical sights, taking in the best of Quebec City. This guided walking tour includes stops for two entrees, two main courses, and a dessert at the city’s top-rated restaurants. By the end of the tour, you’ll be well-fed and feel like a local.
Highlights:
Combine a tour of Quebec City’s history with a culinary adventure
Enjoy enough dishes and tastes to make up a hearty dinner
See the best of the city’s UNESCO-listed landmarks in one trip
Small group limited to 10 people for a personalized experience
For more details, visit the Combo Historical and Food Tour of Old Quebec City on Get Your Guide.
Day 3
Bike Tour to Montmorency Falls from Quebec City – $190 AUD
Leave the busy city behind, and explore the Canadian countryside on this 4-hour bike tour to Montmorency Falls from Quebec City. Spin along cycle tracks through the Domaine de Maizerets with your guide. Pedal along the St. Lawrence River, and gain insight into the region’s rich history and diverse geography. On arrival at Montmorency Falls, take the cable car skywards for panoramic views over the tumbling torrent and cross the suspension bridge to marvel at the falls’ power. Pedal along the St. Lawrence River Take a cable car up for views over Montmorency Falls Cross the footbridge, and snap pictures of the falls Take a break at the Montmorency River.
For more details, visit the Bike Tour to Montmorency Falls from Quebec City page on Viator.
Quebec City: Night Cruise with Live DJ and Dance Floor – $76.53
Step aboard Quebec’s largest floating terrace for an evening cruise with live entertainment. Enjoy stunning views of the Montmorency Falls, the Château Frontenac, the Côte-de-Beaupré, and the Laurentian Mountains.
About this activity:
Evening cruise with live entertainment
Quebec’s largest floating terrace
Spectacular views of Montmorency Falls, Château Frontenac, Côte-de-Beaupré, and the Laurentian Mountains
A unique way to experience the beauty of Quebec from the water
For more details, visit the Québec City: Night Cruise with Live DJ and Dance Floor page on Get Your Guide.