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Found in the heart of French-speaking Canada, Quebec City is a destination rich with history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking to experience the charm of a European-style city in North America, Quebec City has something for everyone. I visited Quebec City in the early months of 2024 and was amazed at the beautiful culture and architecture. It is a quiet and beautiful city.
For images & photos head to our blog post – Things To Do In Quebec City
Quebec City offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern attractions. The city’s historic district, Old Quebec, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, where cobblestone streets and 17th-century architecture transport you back in time. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, exceptional culinary offerings, and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for any traveller.
Quebec City – Navigate our page below
- Overall Destination Rating
- Safety
- Accessibility
- Attractions & Activities
- Accommodation & Amenities
- Cost
- Local Hospitality ( Local Friendliness & Language)
- Climate & Weather
- Map of Quebec City
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Quebec City – Review & Rating
Overall
Quebec City is a beautiful destination with amazing people, beautiful culture & an array of activities for everyone. It caters for all types of people, travelers or residents. From it’s cafes, restaurants, hotels and plenty of attractions. Please consider that this is my opinion and review based on my experience in this destination.
Safety
Traveling in Quebec City feels incredibly safe and welcoming from a traveler’s perspective. The city’s well-maintained streets and the visible presence of friendly police officers contribute to a sense of security. The locals are hospitable and often go out of their way to assist visitors, enhancing the overall feeling of safety. Historic areas like Old Quebec are well-lit and bustling with tourists, even late into the evening, providing a comforting atmosphere. Additionally, the city’s efficient public transport system and reliable services add to the ease and safety of exploring Quebec City.
Homelessness in Quebec City is relatively low compared to larger urban centers, and the city provides support services and shelters to assist those in need. However, I stayed at the Hotel PUR, Quebec, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel and noticed a strong presence of homelessness in this particular area which, the hotel is around a 15-30 minute walk from Old Quebec which is where most tourists stay when visiting. In general, you can explore freely without major concerns, contributing to the overall safe and enjoyable experience. Whether strolling along the charming cobblestone streets, visiting popular attractions, or dining at local eateries, Quebec City offers a secure environment that allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in its rich history and vibrant culture.
Accessibility
Accessibility in Quebec City from a traveler’s perspective is exceptionally well-thought-out and user-friendly. Getting to Quebec City is straightforward, whether you’re arriving by air, train, or road. The Jean Lesage International Airport is just a short drive from the city center With convenient taxi services, shuttle buses, and car rentals available to take you directly to your destination. For those coming from nearby major cities like Montreal, Ottawa, or Toronto, VIA Rail offers comfortable and scenic train journeys, providing a stress-free travel option. Additionally, the extensive highway network, including Highway 20 and Highway 40, makes driving into Quebec City an easy and pleasant experience.
Once in Quebec City, the public transportation system is efficient and reliable. The Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC) operates a comprehensive network of buses that cover the entire city and its suburbs. Making it easy to navigate without a car. For those who prefer more active modes of transportation, the city is very walkable, especially in areas like Old Quebec. Where many attractions are within a short distance of each other. Biking is also popular, with several bike rental options and a growing number of bike paths that provide safe and scenic routes.
Language
Quebec City’s infrastructure supports its role as a major tourist destination. The streets are well-maintained and kept extremely presentable. Signage is clear and is for some buildings available in both French and English, which helps in navigating the city. However, it is limited and the residents of Quebec are more sensitive to travelers who do not at the very least make an effort to speak in French. Majority of signage from the roads to the menus are in French. Please prepare for this shift in language and expectations (despite the fact you are still in Canada). More than 90% of residents in Quebec speak French primarily.
For travelers with mobility issues, the city is continually improving its accessibility features. There are multiple sections of Old Quebec where the cobblestone roads do not provide great accessibility for those who seek flat surfaces and with the geographical position of Quebec City, there are multiple sections in the area where stairs are prevalent and needed. But for public buildings, hotels, and attractions, many have ramps, elevators, and other facilities to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers.
Overall, the combination of efficient transportation options, well-maintained infrastructure, and thoughtful accessibility features makes Quebec City a highly accessible and enjoyable destination for all types of travelers. Whether arriving from a nearby city or further afield, visitors will find it easy to get around and experience all that this beautiful and historic city has to offer.
Attractions & Activities
Quebec City offers a wealth of attractions and activities for travelers. Wander through the historic Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring the stunning Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and lively Terrasse Dufferin. Marvel at Montmorency Falls, higher than Niagara Falls, or enjoy a peaceful stroll in the Plains of Abraham. Food lovers can savor local cuisine in charming bistros and cafes along Rue de Petit Champlain. Visit Place Royale, take the Quebec-Lévis Ferry, and explore the Citadelle de Québec. Don’t miss the beautiful Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec and the natural beauty of Jacques-Cartier National Park. Shop at J.A. Moisan, visit the Ice Hotel, Aquarium du Québec, Musée de la civilisation, and Wendake. Festivals and cultural events throughout the year add to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
For more on the attractions and activities in Quebec City, head to our previous blog post – Things to do in Quebec City
Accommodation & Amenities
Quebec City offers a diverse range of accommodations and amenities catering to all types of travelers. From the luxurious Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, which offers stunning views and top-notch services, to charming boutique hotels and cozy bed-and-breakfasts, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Many accommodations are conveniently located near major attractions, providing easy access to the city’s highlights. Travelers will also find a variety of dining options, from fine dining restaurants to casual cafes, serving delicious local and international cuisine. The city’s amenities include well-maintained public transportation, making it easy to navigate, and numerous shopping opportunities, including unique boutiques and local markets. Wellness facilities, such as spas and fitness centers, are widely available, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay. Whether you are seeking luxury, comfort, or affordability, Quebec City’s accommodation options and amenities are designed to enhance your travel experience.
Cost
Traveling on a budget in Quebec City can be quite manageable. On average, a budget traveler might spend around $50-70 CAD per night for budget accommodations like hostels or budget hotels. Meals can be inexpensive if you opt for casual dining or street food, averaging $10-20 CAD per meal. Public transportation is affordable, with day passes costing around $8 CAD. Many attractions, such as exploring Old Quebec, are free, but paid attractions may cost around $10-20 CAD. Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend approximately $100-150 CAD per day.
Local Hospitality (Local Friendliness & Language)
The local hospitality in Quebec City is renowned for its warmth and friendliness. As a traveler, you will find that the locals are eager to help and proud to share their rich culture and history. Many residents are bilingual, speaking both French and English, which makes communication easy and welcoming. In shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions, staff members often go out of their way to provide excellent service, ensuring visitors feel at home. The city’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by the genuine kindness of its people, making Quebec City a truly inviting destination. Whether you’re asking for directions, dining out, or exploring the local markets. The hospitality of Quebec City’s residents adds a memorable touch to your travel experience.
We happened to be in Quebec on the day of the solar eclipse in 2024. Being unprepared for the event we did not have the proper glassware to see the eclipse. However, there was an abundance of residents who were eager to share and loan their glasses during the event. In general the town of Old Quebec feels warm, soft and gentle.
Climate & Weather
Quebec City experiences a diverse climate with four distinct seasons, each offering its own charm. Summers are warm, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals. Autumn brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 10-15°C (50-59°F), and stunning fall foliage, creating picturesque landscapes. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below -10°C (14°F), perfect for winter sports and activities like skiing and ice skating. Spring sees a gradual warming, with temperatures rising from 5-15°C (41-59°F), and the city coming to life with blooming flowers and greenery. This seasonal variety makes Quebec City a captivating destination year-round.
Map of Quebec City
The image above is an overview of Quebec City. Majority of the main tourist attractions can be found in the dotted black circle in the below image.
The Black circle in the image above is where almost all of the tourist attractions Quebec City is famous for is found. If you have a larger budget and seek convenience then I would definitely recommend staying in this area as it is a beautiful part of Quebec City and is where most of the popular restaurants, cafes, bars, attractions, etc., can be found. If you are on a lower budget you can stay within the red dotted circle which is where I stayed for a cheaper price. This area is around a 15-20 minute walk from the center of the black dotted circle. This is a nice area of town with some nice resturants and shops nearby.
For more details on what you need to know when visiting Quebec City, head over to this amazing article by Pamela MacNaughtan – I love Quebec City so much I moved there. Here’s what any visitor should know.