Length of stay: 2 days
Visited: August 2025
With its cobblestone streets and colourful, quaint shops, Quebec City has a distinctly European look and feel to it. It’s the only walled-in city in Canada and it contains one of the most iconic hotels in the country. With it’s charming architecture, rich history, vibrant culture and high walkability factor, Quebec City is as close as we can get to Europe without having to fly across the Atlantic Ocean.
Day 1: Historic Sites around the City
We drove to Quebec City the day before. After eating breakfast we set out on foot to the Quebec Citadelle. Located on Cap Diamant, the highest natural point in the city, the star-shaped stoned fortress was constructed by the British between 1820 and 1850, following their victory of the Battle of the Plains of Abraham. It was designed to defend the city from a potential American invasion, which never materialized.
The Citadelle was designed to serve as a permanent fortress. It is still an active military base and most of the buildings are still in use today. It contains everything needed in a self-enclosed environment, including lodgings, a hospital, an armoury and storerooms. It’s home to the Royal 22nd Regiment (also known as the Van Doos), the largest regiment in the Canadian Army. They conduct daily activities related to training, strategic planning and operational readiness.
The Citadelle can only be visited with a guide. We timed our visit to coincide with the changing of the guard at 10am where a new set of sentries relieve those that have been on duty for 24 hours. It involved a lot of yelling of commands as the new guard was being inspected, some marching, a marching band and a goat. The whole thing lasted about 30 minutes. I don’t imagine those uniforms are particularly all that comfortable in the best of times, let alone in the summer heat.
Afterwards the crowd split into two groups – one for an English tour and the other for the French tour. Our group was then split into five more smaller groups with about 40 people per group. We followed our guide around the grounds while she explained more about the history of the Citadelle. We even got to go inside a few of the buildings.
Given that Citadelle is located on the highest natural point in the city, it provided lovely views of the St Lawrence River and surrounding area.
Once we wrapped up our tour, we walked back to our hotel, stopping at a grocery store to pick up something for lunch today and tomorrow. We headed back out later in the afternoon after M’s nap. We signed up for a tour of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
The Chateau Frontenac was built by the Canadian Pacific Railway company and opened in 1893. It was designed to resemble a medieval castle commonly found throughout France’s Loire Valley. The intent was to create a hotel that would be a destination in and of itself. And it worked. The Chateau has expanded several times over the years and today has 611 rooms.
Our guide, dressed in a period costume from the 1900s, explained the history of the Chateau, how it’s changed over time and shared some interesting stories about the hotel and its employees. He also led us into a few areas of the hotel, including the lobby (very opulent), Champlain restaurant (a bit too pricey for our budget) and Rose Room (for special events).
Afterwards we strolled through the Old Town. The cobblestone streets were lined with colorful historic buildings, many of which operate as restaurants, cafes and cute shops. Everywhere you went the Chateau Frontenac was clearly visible. Getting to the Old Town involved walking down lots of steps (and then walking back upwards afterwards).
On the way back to our hotel we picked up some sweet and savoury crepes for dinner.
Day 2: Quebec Parliament
We started our morning with a walk around the city. Not much was open yet, just a few cafes for breakfast, and there weren’t many people around. It was such a different experience compared to when we walked around yesterday afternoon.
We circled back to our hotel to eat breakfast and finish packing. But before leaving Quebec City, we had one more activity planned. We signed up for the first English tour of the day at the Quebec Parliament Building. Surrounding the building are 22 statues of people who helped shape the history of the province.
Once we passed through security we joined up with our tour group to learn more about the history of the building and the National Assembly of Quebec, and to admire the architecture and art. As part of our tour we got to peek inside a few important rooms, including the Salon Rouge (legislative council chamber used for parliamentary committed meetings), Salon Bleu (the main chamber where members of the National Assembly meet) and the Library of the National Assembly.
From there we headed to Ottawa.
L
What a great post and photos. Loved the marching band. 😉
Thanks so much for your lovely comment. The marching band was an unexpected surprise, as was the goat!
Given how tall and ornate and prominent it is, you could almost mistake the Chateau Frontenac for the Parliament Building. The hotel is probably more comfortable though…
Ha, most definitely! It also overlooks the St. Lawrence River so the views are much nicer from the Chateau Frontenac too.
An excellent visit to one of our favourite cities Linda. We have been visiting here since 1980 and may be back this fall, when it is less busy. The food, wine and atmosphere are like being in another country. Have a great weekend. Allan
That’s exciting to hear that you might be visiting Quebec City this fall. Are you planning to drive or fly? It’s such a charming city that feels very European. It also gives you a good workout with all those hills and stairs!! A good way to burn off the food and wine! Enjoy the rest of your weekend too.
Great photographs!
There were lots of barricades around parliament when we were there. One of the guards said that parliament was in session hence the barricades.
The alleyways in the old town were really pretty and it was lovely spending time there.
It was too late to get into Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
It’s too bad the parliament was barricaded when you visited as it’s really quite a lovely building. But then again, most buildings in the Old Town of Quebec City are charming. Despite all the hills and steps, we really enjoyed wandering around.
Wow, the city looks very much European, it’s beautiful! I wonder if the province will try to leave Canada again. Alberta is sure trying hard! Thank you for the beautiful photos, Linda, have a great weekend. ❤️
Support for Québec separation is low and it’s also low in Alberta, according to recent polls. The ones in Alberta who do support it are very squeaky wheels and as you say, trying hard. Most Québecers and Albertans do not support separation, however.
Wow, based on what I’ve read, some provinces are sick of the huge taxes from Ottawa.
No one likes taxes but they’re necessary, especially in this country where they cover health care. There’s always going to be whining but people here still want the government services they provide. It also works differently from what you’re used to, as well. The federal government here collects the taxes and then re-distributes them back to the provinces to ensure equitability. No province here is going to separate over taxes, no matter what some of the separatists in Alberta would have people believe.
Wow, thanks for your insights on this, Lynette. There is no such thing as a perfect government. I line our medical system better based on the things I’ve read about super long waits for surgeries. It’s MUCH cheaper for me now that I’m on Medicare.
You cannot visit Québec City often enough!
My life in Canada started there and I just love it!
100% agree. Quebec City is so charming and is worth visiting in every season too.
I’ve never been inside Frontenac, what a great idea. It looks to have a similar feel to Banff Springs, which would make sense. Thanks for the tour Linda. Maggie
It’s very fancy and way above our budget in terms of accommodations! But it was neat to peek inside and hear more about its history. It would be fun to try to visit (and maybe stay at) all the Fairmonts someday.
I love Quebec City ♥️🙌🏼🤩
Me too! It’s all very cute, colourful and charming! It’s a fabulous place to just wander around.
I’d love to go there. It’s definitely my kind of city. It’s beautiful and culture-filled. Thanks for all the info about this fine place.
For sure. We don’t have many cities designed like Quebec City in Canada. It’s a very charming place to visit. And it’s a great excuse to learn a bit more about Canadian history too.
Thanks for this wonderful overview of Québec City. It’s such an historical and beautiful city and yes, also very European. I haven’t visited in quite a few years although M and I were recently talking about going again. It was nice to see it again through your pictures.
What a beautiful journey. Your photos truly capture the charm and depth of that city.
There is something special about Quebec City. The cobblestone streets, the old stone walls, the way history feels alive in every corner. It really does look like a piece of Europe tucked inside Canada.
Thanks Willie. Quebec City is definitely very special and you can’t help but feel like you’ve travelled back in time. The architecture and craftsmanship is beautiful. They don’t make buildings like that anymore!
Wonderful post and photos; the European influence is very strong. Quebec city looks like a wonderful city to visit; and I could use my French!
Merci beaucoup! We’re such a fan of the European style of cities with all the heritage and historic buildings, cobblestone streets and how it’s very walkable. While travelling to Europe would be lovely, it’s something we don’t do often, so it’s nice to have Quebec City as a closer alternative.
Thank you for this lovely tour! Lots of stunning images. I have always wanted to go to Montreal due to its uniquely European influences, a rare find in North America. The Chateau Frontenac looks divine and the umbrella installation is such a creative (and useful!) idea.
There’s no other place like Quebec City in Canada. It’s very charming. And I love how the Old Town is designed for walking instead of driving. The Chateau Frontenac is very picturesque. While it would have been neat to stay there, it was a bit too pricey for our budget!!
Oh this brings back many warm pre-pandemic memories. We did a few days in Quebec en route to New Brunswick – also in August – and it was just lovely.
We also enjoyed visiting the same sites, including the old city and Chateau Frontenac and it was so scenic and just love the old buildings and architecture.
Haven’t been to Ottawa in a long time and look forward to seeing your recap!
Quebec City is very charming and it’s a great place visit and learn more about Canadian history. It’s too bad we don’t design cities like that anymore! Glad you were able to spend some time there on your way to New Brunswick. It’s such a long drive and it’s always good to break things up.
Have a wonderful weekend. I can’t believe it’s supposed to go up to 17C tomorrow!
Can’t wait for all the snow to be washed an melted away this weekend. This time next week, we’ll be in Mexico. 😊
I bet you’re counting down the days!! I’m sure all the snow will be gone by the time you’re back!
C’était vraiment sensass !
Mais oui!
There’s truly no other place like it in North America, dear Linda. I would love to stroll through the city’s cobblestone streets, visit the best historic sites, and soak in the region’s magnificent heritage, storied past, and European charm. I also love how the city is so close to nature, and you can wander around forests and lakes in no time. Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
You’re right, there’s no other North American city quite like Quebec City. It’s such a charming place and we loved that it’s very walkable. We’ve only ever visited in the winter so it was nice to see a different side of the city when everything is lush and colourful. And yes, it’s a huge plus that it’s close to nature and a bunch of parks as well. Thanks for reading. Enjoy the rest of the weekend. Linda
You were lucky to have such beautiful weather in Quebec City. I remember cold, windy days waiting for the sun to come out. The walk through Old Quebec is truly charming, and it’s wonderful that this old neighbourhood has been preserved to show what Canada was like in its early days.
It’s funny that you say that because the previous times we’ve been to Quebec City have all been in the winter! It was really nice to visit in the summer when the weather was much nicer for wandering around. It really is a charming city.
Alright! The architecture really looks like European style. Beautiful historic buildings, Linda. I think M enjoyed the colorful umbrella above. I’m late this time.🤭 My apologies.🤩
It definitely felt like we were in Europe, but the nice thing is we didn’t have to fly across the ocean to get there! Quebec City is very lovely and it was nice to spend a couple days there just wandering around and getting a feel for the city.
I’ve always wanted to visit Quebec City around Christmas, it looks so pretty covered in snow. Although I’d much prefer the August weather!!
I hear yah! We’ve been to Quebec City a few times before, but always in the winter. It is very magical when the city is decorated for the holidays. But it’s much nicer to wander around for longer periods of time when the weather is warmer.
I did not know Quebec City looked like this. It’s beautiful. I’ll have to talk the husband into another Canadian tour. Thank you!
It’s very picturesque. We loved that it was very walkable and pedestrian friendly too. There are few places in Canada where it’s better to walk around on foot than explore by car.
Quebec is so pretty!! The architecture is gorgeous!! Great info !!
Thanks! It’s such a charming city. It’s too bad we don’t make cities (or buildings) like that anymore!
It looks like such a beautiful city. The Old Town centre definitely reminds me of a European town. What a lovely place to visit 🙂
It’s all very cute, colourful and charming. And it’s a great city to visit to learn more about Canadian history.
A quaint and charming city, I visited Quebec City in 1975 or 1976 and loved it. Thanks for the tour and remembrance of my own happy memories! It was a pleasure to see your post and photos.
Quebec is very lovely. I’m sure a lot has changed and yet nothing has really changed since when you visited in the 1970s. It felt like we travelled back in time. Or to Europe. Either way, it was a pleasant experience.
When I read how many groups you split into, it sounds like there were many visitors. A walled city, the changing of the guards, cobblestone streets, and even a medieval castle—you’re right, it sounds very European. Your photos, especially of the old buildings, are beautiful … but I must admit, I was waiting for the photo of the sweet and savoury crepes (that sounds delicious, maybe because we haven’t had dinner yet 😉).
There were quite a few people at the Citadelle, but once they split everyone up into multiple groups, it didn’t seem so bad. It very well timed in terms of which group went where first. The crepes were very tasty. We were clearly very eager to eat them as I totally forgot to take a picture of it all! Whoops!
Ron has been but I haven’t and we have talked about going some year in February during their festival..but then we go skiing instead! Perhaps one fall when the colours are glorious. Definitely will do a tour of the hotel and the citadel basws on your tours. Bernie
Ha, I’m not surprised to hear that skiing takes priority! I’ve never been to Quebec in the fall, but I’ve heard the fall colours are outstanding. We’re actually planning to return this summer to explore a bunch of the parks along the Gaspe Peninsula.
Your summer trip sounds perfect!
I’m looking forward to it. And to summer. It’s been such a cold and snowy winter. We’ve been enjoying some spring-like weather these past few days though which has been a nice change of pace.
Which is weird as our winter hasn’t had besr enough snow and only two patches of real cold. It’s just that spring loads slowly on the prairies and we all get impatient for real warmth
We’re finally getting a taste of spring weather at the moment. But we’re supposed to get 5-10cm of snow this weekend.
The first photo is awesome. I love the architecture and cobblestone streets ! I would love to see those. The chateau looks incredible. You said it had 600b and some rooms. That’s would. It was prob take 2b days to your the whole thing. I’m grateful you took some pics of the outside and in! Amazing place for sure
Thanks! Quebec City is very cute. The Chateau Frontenac is such a focal point no matter where you are. It’s outrageously expensive though and I can’t help but wonder how so many people can afford to stay there! Perhaps someday!
So awesome post and grace photos 🌷🙏👍🏻 Quebec City sounds very European culture, a great view of changing of guards and the old Buildings that reflect the glory of the Country are very beautiful 😍 👌 All photos and explanations are incredible 😯 Thank you for sharing my dear friend and Best Wishes 🌷🥰🖖👏🌷
Thanks so much for reading and leaving such a lovely comment. Quebec City is as close as we can get to a European city without having to fly across the ocean to get there. It’s very cute and charming. We loved just wandering around and exploring the city on foot.
Thank you so much for likes my feedback and most welcome wishes my dear 🌷🙏🥰🌷
I’ve always wanted to visit Quebec City. It just seems so historically and architecturally interesting. I got a laugh out of there being a goat involved in the changing of the guard. Definitely not what I was expecting!
I’m glad I’m not the only one that got a good laugh about the goat. Apparently it’s their mascot. He was very well behaved.
Quebec City and Montreal are parts of Canada I’ve always wanted to visit. I was a Francophile when I was in college, so that’s part of the reason for my fascination for Francophone countries and regions around the globe. August seems like a perfect time to go weather-wise.
I hope you’re able to visit Quebec someday. We’re actually planning to return this summer to explore some of their provincial and national parks. It’s neat to hear that you were a Francophile when you were in college! I was in a French immersion program from grades 7 to 12, but regrettably stopped studying it when I went to university.
Quebec seems like such a beautiful city! I love the very European feel streets mixed with that towering beauty of the hotel. Such a great mix of beautiful architecture everywhere!
It’s very charming. We’ve been in the winter before and the Old Town looks magical with all the Christmas markets and holiday decorations. It honestly felt like we were in Europe. There’s something to be said about being able to walk around everywhere, which is always the best way to explore.
Just started looking into visiting here! This will definitely help 🙂
How exciting! You’ll love it there. Happy trip planning!
The cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and that castle-like hotel really do make it feel like a little slice of Europe. Sounds like a lovely couple of days exploring. 😊
That it was! And we couldn’t have asked for better weather to explore the city!
It really makes such a difference! Perfect weather always makes exploring a place even more enjoyable. Glad you had such a great time there. 😊
Absolutely! It always helps to have nice weather when exploring on foot!
It looks so beautiful there, and I love the impressive architecture and art work! This is definitely on our travel list to visit someday 🙂
Quebec City is definitely worth adding to the list. The architecture is very cute and charming. It’s just a very lovely city to wander around. The cobblestone streets aren’t the greatest for a stroller though!
Looks like a beautiful city. These buildings are stunning and indeed very similar to French villages and castles.
It’s a lovely city to visit to get a taste of Europe without actually having to travel across the ocean to get there! It’s a shame we didn’t design more cities like that in Canada. There’s something nice about being about to walk everywhere instead of relying on the car.
Quebec City seems to have a slightly surreal “are we still in North America?” feeling. I enjoyed the detail about the changing of the guard at the Citadelle—especially the marching band and the goat, which was very unexpected if like me you don’t know the tradition. Those views from Cap Diamant must be spectacular looking out over the St. Lawrence. The early-morning walk you described on day two sounded particularly appealing too; old cities often reveal a completely different personality before the crowds arrive.
We’ve been to the Citadelle before, but this was our first time watching the changing of the guard. They put on the quite the show and pulled out all the stops, including a goat! My favourite time to wander around is first thing in the morning when it seems like everyone is still sleeping. You get such a different feel for the city. And it’s a great time to take pictures!
I loved Quebec. I was a teenager when I was here and we stayed at Le Chateau Frontenac. It was absolutely amazing. We also took a nighttime boat across the river, which was beautiful. Quebec was such a special vacation for us as when we returned to the States my mother was diagnosed with cancer and passed away a few years later. Little did we know it would be our last family vacation but it was so wonderful and my mother had such a nice time there. I can still see my mother marveling at the old city and walking with her sister, both just having a good time.
Wonderful to hear that you’ve been to Quebec City. I can see why it holds a special place in your heart and reminds you of your mom. The nighttime boat tour sounds cool. And that’s awesome that you’ve stayed overnight at the Chateau Frontenac. We looked into their prices and it was crazy expensive, but then again we were visiting during peak season.
It was a bit out of the norm for where we usually stayed but dad and mom wanted to make it a really nice trip. I remember dad commenting that it was the first time he ever had to pack a suit jacket and a tie on a vacation!
I am only familiar with Toronto and surrounding areas from a few visits for work and pleasure… Thank you for the guided tour of Quebec.. certainly on the list if we head back at some point. We would still like to to a train trip across from East to West at some point.
I hope you’re able to return someday as Quebec City is such a beautiful city to explore. We’d love to take a train ride across Canada someday too. Seems like a good way to enjoy the scenery without having to drive!
I never went into the Chateau Frontenac whenever I went to Quebec City –several times over the decades.
We looked into how much it would cost to spend one night at the Chateau Frontenac in August and it made our eyes water! I was okay paying a small fraction of the price to just go on a tour instead!
Great post
Thanks for your kind words. Quebec is such a charming city and lends itself well to wandering around on foot.
I’ve been to Montreal a few times (briefly), but never made it to Quebec. These stately buildings are so impressive, and the stone buildings seem to tell a charming history.
Hopefully you’re able to return someday to explore Quebec City. It’s a very charming city filled with a lot of history and character. It’s a nice way to get a taste of Europe without having to fly across the Atlantic ocean to get there.
I’d like to do that.
Many wow moments! The bright red coats certainly stand out and no, they must not be comfortable. The street of umbrellas reminded me of one I walked down in Scotland. Fun!
I don’t know how they do it. Those red coats must have been so uncomfortable in the heat and humidity. Plus they were standing in full sun too. Those hanging umbrellas were really pretty. Good to know there is something similar in Scotland. It’s high up there on our travel list.
☂️😊
What a good-looking city! I’m not at all familiar with Quebec so I enjoyed seeing it through your eyes xx
It’s a very charming city that has a European feel to it. It’s nice being able to leave the car behind and walk everywhere on foot, which is always the best way to explore a city anyway.