If you’re in the French-speaking part of Canada, Québec City is a must-visit. It’s not only the capital of Québec province, but also one of the oldest European settlements in North America. The city’s distinctly French-style architecture gives it a unique charm — no surprise, given its deep colonial roots.
How to Get There
We drove to Québec City from La Mauricie National Park, which took about 1 hour and 50 minutes via Autoroute 40 E.
Although the Trans-Canada Highway is another option, our host recommended Autoroute 40 E as a more scenic and slightly shorter route — and we’re glad we took her advice!
Where to Stay
Since we had just one day to explore Québec City, we chose to stay close to the action. We booked a night at Auberge Château Des Tourelles, located about a 10–15 minute walk from Old Québec.
The inn is set in a charming historic building, which definitely adds character—but keep in mind that also means narrow staircases, creaky floors, and thin walls. That said, for a one-night stay, the location and price more than made up for the quirks.
WHAT TO DO IN Québec
1. Explore Old Québec
Spend a few hours wandering the charming streets of Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with French-style architecture, cute cafés, and boutique shops. The cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and historic atmosphere make it feel like you’ve stepped into a European village.
2. Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
Take a walk along the iconic promenade overlooking the St. Lawrence River and snap a few photos of the world’s most photographed hotel — the stunning Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth admiring up close!
3. Montmorency Falls
Located just 15 minutes from Old Québec, Montmorency Falls is a must-see natural wonder— 30 meters taller than Niagara Falls!
The park offers a range of activities for every interest:
4. Café Hopping in Québec City
Québec has a fantastic coffee scene — perfect for grabbing breakfast, enjoying a slow brunch, or just fueling your day of sightseeing. Here are some of our favorite spots:
Conclusion
Québec City totally won us over — with its fairytale streets, waterfall adventures, and flaky pastries at every corner. One day wasn’t enough… but hey, we’ll take any excuse to come back!
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