Historic charm meets vibrant culture along scenic riverside streets
Québec City
Tips on renting in Québec City
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Quebec City beckons families with cobblestone streets that echo with 400 years of French history. Your children will marvel at the fairy-tale turrets of Château Frontenac towering above the St. Lawrence River, while you savor the scent of fresh croissants wafting through the Petit Champlain district. Old Quebec’s fortified walls, the only remaining walled city north of Mexico, invite exploration on foot or by calèche (horse-drawn carriage), with local guides sharing tales of past centuries in both French and English.
Adventure awaits beyond the historic core at Montmorency Falls, where your family can ride the cable car 272 feet above thundering cascades or brave the suspension bridge for mist-kissed views. The Plains of Abraham offers sprawling green space perfect for picnics, while Battlefields Park’s 108 hectares invite cycling and discovering hidden sculptures. Book the Fortifications of Quebec walking tour with Parks Canada to access secret passages and artillery demonstrations that captivate young imaginations.
Hidden gems include the Observatoire de la Capitale on the 31st floor, offering 360-degree panoramas, and the magical Ice Hotel (January through March) in nearby Valcartier, where your family can explore frozen architecture before tubing down snow slides at Village Vacances Valcartier’s winter playground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Québec City has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features the iconic Château Frontenac, a stunning castle-like hotel that dominates the skyline. Visitors can stroll along Terrasse Dufferin for breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River, with access to a charming boardwalk that takes about 30 minutes to explore at a gentle pace. The area is free to access and showcases historical landmarks, vibrant street performances, and picturesque views that make it truly enchanting.
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The best place to launch a boat in Saint-Étienne-de-Lauzon is at Parc nautique de Lauzon, featuring a well-maintained ramp and ample parking. This picturesque area along the St. Lawrence River is perfect for kayaking or fishing, with seasonal rentals available from May to October. Enjoy the serene waters while soaking in the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape—it’s a nature lover’s paradise.
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The Jacques-Cartier National Park, located just a short drive from Québec City, is a stunning destination for kayaking enthusiasts, featuring 25 km of pristine waterways amidst breathtaking scenery. Paddle along the gentle currents of the Jacques-Cartier River, where trips typically take 2 to 4 hours depending on your chosen route. Open from May to October, the park offers rental services for kayaks, with day-use entrance fees set at $8 per person, making it an accessible outdoor adventure for nature lovers.
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The Mont Tremblant National Park boasts the picturesque La Roche Trail, a 5.9 km loop that typically takes about 2–3 hours to complete at a moderate pace. Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Laurentians and the serene Diable River, making it a perfect choice from late spring through early autumn. Entrance fees are approximately $8 per day, offering access to this stunning natural wonder.
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Explore the breathtaking trails of Jacques-Cartier National Park, which features a stunning 30 km network of paths perfect for hiking enthusiasts. The La Vallée de la Jacques-Cartier trail offers a moderate 9 km round trip, taking approximately 3 hours to traverse, with glorious views of the river and surrounding wilderness. The park is open year-round, with the best hiking conditions occurring from late spring to early autumn, and a daily entrance fee of $8 per adult provides access to this natural wonder.
