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• Québec City Sightseeing Tours

The  Old City  is like an open-air museum, and the best way to explore it is on foot with a local guide on a city tour. A variety of excursions and day trips are also available to take you easily and comfortably beyond the historic district to other local attractions such as Montmorency Falls, Île d’Orléans, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine, whale watching, and more. Choose from a range of sightseeing tour options and explore Old Québec and the surroundings.

Walking Tours in Québec City

All kinds of walking tours are available, whether you prefer historical or theme visits. Let the local guides reveal the secrets of Québec City's fascinating history.

Bike Tours in Québec City

Guided bike tours allow you to visit must-see places in a different way and escape beyond the tourist limits. Go on a hassle-free ride in the company of a guide while discovering the culture and history of Quebec, regardless of your age or level.

Québec City Boat Tours

One thing’s for sure—the view of Québec City from the St. Lawrence River is spectacular in any season! A variety of boat tours  are offered in summer and fall. 

Bus Tours in Québec City

Interested in visiting the most popular attractions without worrying about the route or parking? Choose from a range of bus tour options. 

Food Tours in Québec City

One of the best introductions to Québec City’s culture is through its food. From fine dining to Québécois comfort, food tours highlight local terroir and add a dash of history along the way.  

Aerial Excursions in Québec City

Thrill to a bird’s eye view of the fortifications, the Citadel, and the Old City’s winding streets. Other attractions can be added to your itinerary, such as Montmorency Falls or the Jacques-Cartier River valley.

More Tours and Visits

7 Must-See Indoor Sites in Old Québec

The 5 Best Day Trips from Québec City

10 Best Things to Do in Old Québec City

Whale Watching Tours from Québec City

The Québec City Ferry

Explore québec with a guide.

• Self-guided Tours (Audioguides, Walking Tours)
• Aerial Tours (Plane, Helicopter, Hot Air Balloon)
• Guided Walking Tours and Theme Tours
• Guided Tours with Private Driver
• Tours by Water
• Excursion by Train

Quatre Natures - Île d'Orléans

Charlevoix Rail Transit

Croisières Orléans

Excursions Maritimes Québec

Croisières AML

Echo Sports Tours

Québec 1608 Tours

Hydravion Québec

Discover more content See all

The Best of Québec City

THE 10 BEST Quebec City Tours & Excursions

Quebec city tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full-Day Quebec City and Cruise Tour

2. Quebec City Walking Tour

3. Old Quebec City Food & Drink Tour / Day Experience

4. Half-Day Trip to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré from Quebec city

5. Full-Day Quebec City Tour

6. Quebec city & Montmorency Falls 1 Day Tour

7. Amazing Old Quebec City Classique Walking Tour with 1 Funicular Ticket included

8. Island of Orleans taste and Drink Tour

9. Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City

10. Small Group Excursion of Quebec City and Montmorency Falls

11. Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner - History and Food in Old Quebec City

12. Private Half-Day Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-De-Beaupré

13. Quebec City Guided Sightseeing Cruise

14. Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip from Montreal

15. Quebec City Sightseeing Tour

16. Guided Tour of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City

17. Full-Day Whale Watching Cruise from Quebec City

18. Old Quebec City Private Walking Tour: History and Nature

19. Private Tour: Quebec City Walking Tour

20. Historic District of Old Quebec walking tour (3h)

21. Quebec City Hop-On Hop-Off

22. Quebec City : Guided E-bike food Tour on Ile d'Orleans

23. Old Québec & French Canada Private History Walking Tour

24. Magnificent Montmorency Falls Private E-Bike Tour

25. Private Guided Quebec City Walking Tour with Funicular Included

26. Discover Quebec With a Private 4-Hour City Tour

27. Half Day Private Getaway to Ile d'Orléans

28. Historical Tasting Old Quebec Walking Tour

29. Quebec City Shore Excursion: Private Guided Quebec City Walking Tour

30. Quebec City Shore Excursion: Private Walking Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Quebec City Walking Tour
• Full-Day Quebec City and Cruise Tour
• Amazing Old Quebec City Classique Walking Tour with 1 Funicular Ticket included
• Half-Day Trip to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré from Quebec city
• Old Quebec City Food & Drink Tour / Day Experience
• HQ Services Touristiques Inc.
• Nomad Tours Québec
• Tours Voir Quebec
• Echo Sports Tours
• Tours Accolade
• Il Etait une Fois Kebec
• Xavier Your Private Guide
• A Free Tour of Quebec
• Sunny Tour Guide
• Ghost Tours of Quebec / Les Visites Fantomes de Quebec
• Les Promenades Fantômes
• Projet Vertical
• Cyclo Services
• Canot à glace expérience
• Complexe Capitale Helicoptere

Truly experience Quebec City with passionate local guides

Unique guided walking tours to make the best of Quebec City

Entertaining historical walking tours for everyone !

Guided tour of the Château Frontenac

Old Quebec Walking tour

Private tours

There's not one quite like our cicerones.

Our tour guides are local, passionate, dedicated and professional. They put in their every effort to conduct tours that are fun, engaging, informative and unforgettable. They even bring history to life as they re-enact some prominent figures of local history and tell memorable stories and little known facts. An experience not to be missed!

Jean-Claude

Since 2015 • Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence • Locally owned and operated

1-418 906-0768

Quebec City Tours

Take your trip to the next level with premium quebec city private tours.

Recipient of the Trip Advisor Travellers' Choice Award 2023

Bonjour, my name is Marie-Pierre and these are my Quebec City tours

I’m a dynamic quebecker who simply wants to show the World how unique Quebec City is by offering authentic private walking tours. Nomad Tours Québec is my own tour business, but also my passion. Let me show you Quebec City !

Experience Quebec City like a local with Nomad Tours Quebec

With me as your tour guide, you'll get a local perspective: I was born and raised in Québec City. You can also count on my professionalism: I am a certified Québec City tour guide and proud of it!

A trip this important requires a specialist...

Anything less is too risky! With my expertise, I can tailor my guided tours according to my guests specific needs or interests. Each of my tours are unique.

View My Amazing Quebec City Tours

Choose from my comprehensive list of guided, sightseeing, and family Quebec City Tours. I also offer group and corporate rates!

Quebec City 101 Tour

Private Quebec City Photo Tour

5-Course Quebec City Gourmet Food Tour

Custom Tour

Full Day Private Tour

“Step On” Customized Local Bus/Coach Tours

Quebec City Private Shopping Tour

Off-the-Beaten Path Quebec City Tour & Distillery Visit

Why tour with me, unique and custom itineraries, safe and reliable private experience, fluent english guide.

European charm, exquisite cuisine, fascinating history and culture... A coup de foudre destination!

From my Quebec City Blog​

Let me share with you my favorite restaurant, pubs and things to do in Quebec City.

Amazing winter activities to do in Quebec City

… Read More

Quebec City free tours: an interview with business owner Sam Dubois

Best shopping streets in Quebec City

Kayak de mer à l’Ile d’Orléans

Afternoon Tea at the Château Frontenac [2024 Update]

5 tips to get ready for an amazing walking tour in 2024

Evening Gourmet Tour in Quebec City: My 2024 Review

I can't wait to show you around Quebec City!

Top Tours in Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec city tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full-Day Quebec City and Cruise Tour

2. Quebec City Walking Tour

3. Old Quebec City Food & Drink Tour / Day Experience

4. Half-Day Trip to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré from Quebec city

5. Full-Day Quebec City Tour

6. Quebec city & Montmorency Falls 1 Day Tour

7. Amazing Old Quebec City Classique Walking Tour with 1 Funicular Ticket included

8. Island of Orleans taste and Drink Tour

9. Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City

10. Small Group Excursion of Quebec City and Montmorency Falls

11. Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner - History and Food in Old Quebec City

12. Private Half-Day Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-De-Beaupré

13. Quebec City Guided Sightseeing Cruise

14. Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip from Montreal

15. Quebec City Sightseeing Tour

16. Guided Tour of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City

17. Full-Day Whale Watching Cruise from Quebec City

18. Old Quebec City Private Walking Tour: History and Nature

19. Private Tour: Quebec City Walking Tour

20. Historic District of Old Quebec walking tour (3h)

21. Quebec City Hop-On Hop-Off

22. Quebec City : Guided E-bike food Tour on Ile d'Orleans

23. Old Québec & French Canada Private History Walking Tour

24. Magnificent Montmorency Falls Private E-Bike Tour

25. Private Guided Quebec City Walking Tour with Funicular Included

26. Discover Quebec With a Private 4-Hour City Tour

27. Half Day Private Getaway to Ile d'Orléans

28. Historical Tasting Old Quebec Walking Tour

29. Quebec City Shore Excursion: Private Guided Quebec City Walking Tour

30. Quebec City Shore Excursion: Private Walking Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Quebec City Walking Tour
• Full-Day Quebec City and Cruise Tour
• Amazing Old Quebec City Classique Walking Tour with 1 Funicular Ticket included
• Half-Day Trip to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré from Quebec city
• Old Quebec City Food & Drink Tour / Day Experience
• HQ Services Touristiques Inc.
• Nomad Tours Québec
• Tours Voir Quebec
• Echo Sports Tours
• Tours Accolade
• Il Etait une Fois Kebec
• Xavier Your Private Guide
• A Free Tour of Quebec
• Sunny Tour Guide
• Ghost Tours of Quebec / Les Visites Fantomes de Quebec
• Les Promenades Fantômes
• Projet Vertical
• Cyclo Services
• Canot à glace expérience
• Complexe Capitale Helicoptere

A walking tour of Québec City

Dec 16, 2019 • 5 min read

The Fresque des Québécois tells the story of Québec City’s history. Image by MANIN Richard / hemis.fr / Getty

Founded in 1608, Québec City is North America’s oldest walled city and the cradle of French civilization in the New World. It’s also a walker’s dream: compact, picturesque and brimming with European charm.

This tour reveals Québec ’s rich and colorful history, taking you down narrow cobblestone streets, past mansard-roofed houses, across the legendary Plains of Abraham and alongside the mighty St Lawrence River. The route is roughly 6km, 1 hour 20 minutes of walking. 

Grand perspectives on the river

For a palpable sense of Québec City’s dramatic setting, step onto the [1] Terrasse Dufferin , a magnificent 425m-long boardwalk perched atop Cap Diamant, a 60m-tall cliff with bird’s eye views of the St Lawrence River. From this vantage point, it’s easy to understand why the Algonquins (North American indigenous people) called this place kébec (where the river narrows) and why French explorer Samuel de Champlain chose this strategic site for New France’s first permanent settlement in 1608. Look for the statue of Champlain and the nearby excavations of his second fort, which stood here from 1620 to 1635.

Nowadays it’s the [2] Château Frontenac that rules these heights. With fabulous turrets and multiple wings graciously complementing its spectacular setting, this audaciously elegant structure is the world’s most photographed hotel and the uncontested jewel of Québec City's skyline. Completed in 1893, it was one of the Canadian Pacific Railway's series of luxury hotels built across Canada. Over the years, it's hosted luminaries such as Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt, who gathered here for the Québec Conferences during WWII, as well as Alfred Hitchcock, who featured the Frontenac in the opening scene of his 1953 mystery I Confess . Other illustrious guests have included King George VI, Princess Grace of Monaco and Paul McCartney.

Plains of Abraham: where Québec’s history turned

Follow the boardwalk southwest and climb via the Promenade des Gouverneurs up onto the grassy expanses of the [3] Plains of Abraham , site of the pivotal September 13, 1759, battle in which British general Wolfe led his men in a sneak attack up the cliffs, catching the French unprepared and precipitating Britain’s takeover of New France. The Plains are now a historic park and a recreation paradise, threaded with cycling, skiing and walking trails and used as the prime venue for Québec City’s annual winter carnival.

As you cross the Plains, look on your right for the [4] Citadelle , a massive, star-shaped fort built by the British in the 19th century to defend against American invasion and a possible revolt by the local French-speaking population (that's why the cannons point not only at the river, but at Québec City itself!).

Inside the old city walls

Enter the picturesque heart of the Old Upper City via [5] Porte St-Louis , an impressive gate first erected in 1693 (though the current incarnation dates from 1878). To your left, backed by Québec’s old city walls, is the [6]Parc de l'Esplanade, once used for 18th- and 19th-century military exercises. Continue along Rue St-Louis, pausing at the corner of Rue du Corps-de-Garde to look for a cannonball embedded in a tree (supposedly since 1759). Number 47 Rue St-Louis is where France’s legendary General Montcalm spent his final 24 hours, after being shot by the British during the Battle of the Plains of Abraham.

At 34 Rue St-Louis, look for the traditional Québécois restaurant [7] Aux Anciens Canadiens , housed in a 1676 home whose steeply slanted roof was typical of 17th-century French architecture. Turning left onto Rue des Jardins, you'll pass a sculpture by Jules Lasalle honouring the nuns who came to Québec and educated both French and First Nations girls at the adjacent [8] Ursuline Convent . Bear gently right to reach the elegantly handsome [9] Cathedral of the Holy Trinity , modeled on London’s St Martin-in-the-Fields Church. Dating to 1800, it was the first Anglican cathedral ever built outside the British Isles, with pews made of oak imported from Windsor Castle's Royal Forest.

A block further on, look on your right for [10] Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-Québec , an imposing cathedral that got its start as a small Catholic church in 1647 but has been rebuilt repeatedly to repair damage from fires and battles, including the British-French conflict of 1759. Next door, a gate leads into the grounds of the [11] Québec Seminary , founded in 1663 as a place of religious education; it's also where American officers were locked up after their unsuccessful siege of Québec in 1775-76.

Detour briefly down Côte de la Fabrique to Rue St-Jean, where you can break for a snack at one of Quebec’s best boulangeries, [12] Paillard – its shelves brimming with fresh-baked croissants and other French-inspired delights. From here, make your way back to Rue des Remparts and follow the town walls to a fine overlook of the Lower Town waterfront.

Exploring the Lower Town

Descend along Côte de la Canoterie, which for centuries was the main link between the Upper and Lower Towns (and classes); Hope Gate stood here until 1873 to keep the riffraff from entering the Upper Town uninvited. At the foot of the hill, turn right onto Rue St-Paul, the heart of Québec's antiques district, where you can browse for your very own piece of Québécois history. One block over, take a peek at Rue Sous-le-Cap, Québec City’s narrowest street and a former red-light district.

Follow Rue Sault-au-Matelot and Rue Notre-Dame along the base of the cliffs to the [13] Fresque des Québécois , a marvelous 420-sq-meter trompe-l'oeil wall painting, where you can pose for the requisite photo alongside historical figures like Jacques Cartier and Samuel de Champlain. From here it’s a short walk to [14]Place-Royale, Québec City’s original town square and home to North America’s oldest stone church, the diminutive [15] Église Notre-Dame-des-Victoires , dating from 1688 and named for French victories over the British.

Finish your grand loop with a two-minute funicular ride back up to Château Frontenac, or enjoy one last steep but scenic walk up the evocatively named [16]Escalier Casse-Cou (Breakneck Staircase). Either way, you’ll enjoy lovely views over the [17] Le Quartier Petit-Champlain , North America’s oldest commercial district, replete with boutiques housed in 17 th - and 18 th -century buildings.

This article was first published in November 2015, last updated December 2019.

This article was first published November 2015 and updated December 2019

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The first and only free walking tour of Quebec city

A free walking tour of quebec / tours guidés samuel dubois.

Have you ever taken a walking tour?

Travel on a budget or just looking for a great activity in the city? Take a free tour of Quebec city. Rated as Traveller's Choice 2023. Walking tour is the best way to learn about a city!  Don't just visit Quebec City – truly experience it with our acclaimed walking tours! You will get a closer look to the history with a funny certified local guide!

For those who like to know fun facts and anecdotes while visiting a city. Québec is probably the most charming place of the continent!

Get off the beaten path

We have a lot of tourist attractions, but Québec is more than just the Frontenac Castle. The town is filled with hidden gems and unique places to discover!

Not a boring tour

During the tour you will laugh (at least three times!). It is made to be one of the highlights of your trip!

What to expect?

My name is Samuel Dubois, and I’ve been living in Quebec City since I was born! When I travel, I love taking walking tours. I think it’s the best way to start off a trip and learn about a city through the eyes of a local tour guide.

After a one-year course at the College Merici in Tourism, I received my tour guide license. I am now ready to guide you to where tour buses won’t take you!

As soon as you step into the old part of town, you will without a shadow of a doubt fall in love with the charm of the city. As one of the oldest cities in North America, Quebec is replete with secrets that most locals have no knowledge of. I am offering to personally guide you through these well-kept secrets and into the rich history of Quebec in a humorous, fun-fact-filled manner. Believe me, you will not find another history-savvy comedian by trade offering a free tour of this kind. By experience, I know tour guides can sometimes be monotonous Debbie Downers, and that is exactly why I’ve devised this humorous historical tour! If you are planning a visit to Quebec, make sure to inquire about an authentic, one of a kind tour.

Over the year my work has been featured on Radio-Canada, Star Tribune, BBC2. I've received 3 certificates of excellence on TripAdvisor and 4 travellers choices with a lot of 5 stars reviews.

Be my guest you will see by yourself!

Samuel Dubois

Each booking will help the community  

When booking the free walking tour, please note there's a nominal fee of 4$ (tx included) This fee is not only vital for the upkeep and enhancement of my website and booking system but also acts as a guarantee for your reserved spot while helping to minimize no-shows.

By participating in the tour, you're not just embarking on a journey through our city's rich history and culture but it also making a meaningful contribution to our community. 0.75$ of the fee is directed towards supporting a local nonprofit organization I proudly endorse called La Bouchée Généreuse in Limoilou.

​ La Bouchée Généreuse, addressing food insecurity and inequality, aiding over 1,000 families.  

Your contribution helps newcomers and impacts those in need. Remember, not everyone has the opportunity to travel, and tourism can be a way to give back. Thank you for joining us and making a difference!

If for some reason the booking dont work wr ite me back!

Book a tour

More tours here.

 Free Old Québec city tour

Tour time 2hrs / Tips are welcome Language: Engl ish Booking fee 4$ *  If for some reason the booking dont work write me back!  

As soon as you step into the old part of town, you will without a shadow of a doubt fall in love with the charm of the city. As one of the oldest cities in North America, Quebec is replete with secrets that most locals have no knowledge of. I am offering to personally guide you through these well-kept secrets and into the rich history of Quebec in a humorous, fun-fact-filled manner

Tour time 2hrs / Tips are welcome Language: Engl ish Booking fee 4$ *  

* Booking fee 4$  This fee is n ot o nly vital for the upkeep and enhancement of my website and booking system but also acts as a guarantee for your reserved spot while helping to minimize no-shows. Please note that the booking fee is not part the donation to the guide at the end of the tour.

Free tour of Old Québec -ENGLISH TOUR-

Meeting point infront the fountain of tourny (Booking fee of 4$ taxes...

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun

Quebec like a local -ENGLISH TOUR-

Meeting point infront of train station gare du palais Booking fee 4$ (...

Quebec city Untold

Discover the secrets of Quebec City with 'Quebec City Untold

1 hr 30 min

Tour gratuit du vieux Québec en Français

Frais de réservation 3.48$+txs

Tour privé / Private tour

Jusqu'à 8 p 180$ +15$ par personnes additionel / Group up to 8 people ...

    Be Amazed    

Somes reviews.

Star Tribune Anne Stein

We met the No. 1-rated walking guide in the city, Samuel Dubois. He’s a Quebec native — with bushy beard and red-and-black wool plaid shirt — with a wonderful sense of humor!

Tripadvisor review Paul H

Our guide Samuel was extremely eloquent and entertaining and whilst hitting the highlights of Quebec also delivered against his promise of showing us facets of Quebec we would not see on a coach trip. We found the tour nicely easy-paced and very interesting and certainly appreciated the local flavour that Samuel brought.

Tripadvisor review Maciu Selina

This was my favorite walking tour and guide in Canada. Despite the bad weather conditions, Sam made the tour extremely enjoyable. He was knowledgeable, I learned a lot about the city and on top of that - Sam had a great sense of humor. I can strongly recommend!

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SELF GUIDED TOURS

Discover quebec city’s charms at your own pace thanks to our audio tours..

Catch a glimpse of different parts of the city. Explore the streets steeped in history, important landmarks and architecture, all peppered with surprising anecdotes.

The ideal complement to our guided tours, to be done independently using the GPS technology of your own phone. You will always be taken to the right place at the right time.

The duration varies depending on the visit, some are 30 minutes, others 1 hour.

To enjoy it, nothing could be simpler! Choose the tour that's right for you.  Download the free app for iPhone and Android devices. 

Use the app offline to save on data and roaming costs.

You can download our audio tours with a single tap before you leave your WiFi zone. They come with offline maps, and you don’t have to pay for data while you’re out exploring.

the Heart of Old Quebec City: An essential guide to its historical treasures

Place royale & petit-champlain: discover the birthplace of quebec city, the fortifications: a unique heritage site in north america .

Watch for the release of our next audio tours which will cover several areas of Quebec.

The Tours Voir Québec website uses cookies to help us optimize our visitors' experience. By using our website, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy .

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• Guided Tours

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Old Quebec City

• June 16, 2019

Last Updated on March 4, 2024 by Pamela MacNaughtan

Quebec City, one of the oldest cities in Canada, is a favourite destination among those who want to wander down cobblestone streets lined with stone tin-roofed houses. Established in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain , Quebec City began in what is now known as Petit-Champlain and Place-Royale , before moving up to the top of Cap Diamant — which gave the settlers a better view of the Saint-Lawrence River, and thus a better chance of defending themselves against possible enemies — and stretching into what we now call Vieux-Port.

The beauty of a self-guided tour is that you have complete control: start whenever you want, choose which points of interest to spend time and which ones to skip, and take as many café breaks as you want — we’ll mark cafés on the tour map as well as wifi hotspots!

This self-guided walking tour of Quebec City will take you through Old Quebec City, which is perched atop Cap Diamant, then down the cap, into Vieux-Port, Place-Royale, and Petit-Champlain, before returning you to the starting point.

let the self-guided walking tour begin!

Starting point: fairmont château frontenac.

1, rue des carrières

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Urban Guide Quebec (@urbanguidequebec) on Jun 12, 2019 at 3:48am PDT

Designed by Bruce Price, an American architect, Château Frontenac was built in 1893; as one of the château-style hotels built for the Canadian Pacific Railway ( Fairmont Banff Springs ,  Fairmont Château Laurier , and Fairmont Château Lake Louise were also built as part of this initiative ). Sitting atop Cap Diamant in Quebec’s Uppertown (also known as Old Quebec City), Fairmont Château Frontenac stands tall and majestic as though it is protecting the city from invasion — which makes sense as the Saint-Louis Fort once stood just in front of the hotel’s current location.

Start your tour outside the château, on rue du Fort, making your way to Monument Samuel de Champlain, which stands on Dufferin Terrace, in front of the château. This is an LGTBQIA2S+ safe space.

monument samuel de champlain

dufferin terrace

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Urban Guides Canada (@urbanguidesca) on Aug 5, 2017 at 3:54am PDT

Created by the French sculptor, Paul Chevré, and architect, Paul Alexander le Cardonnel, Monument Samuel de Champlain (the founder of Quebec) stands on Dufferin Terrace, just in front of the Fairmont Château Frontenac.

In January 1896, a contest took place to find an artist to create a monument of Samuel de Champlain. Artists submitted sketches and models (there were 11 sketches and 14 models in total) of their proposed vision for the monument, which were then judged by a committee. The winner, a young sculptor from France, Paul Romain Chevré was awarded $30,000 to create the statue of Samuel de Champlain — which was placed on Dufferin Terrace in September 1898. The base upon which the statue stands was created by Paul Alexander le Cardonnel using stone similar to that of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

instagram stop!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Urban Guides Canada (@urbanguidesca) on Aug 3, 2017 at 4:14am PDT

• Instagram a shot of the monument from a distance with Château Frontenac in the background, or move up close to admire some of the finer details — look close enough and you’ll notice that crown resting upon one of the angels resembles the old fortress.
• Capture a shot of Dufferin Terrace and Fairmont Château Frontenac.
• Stand along the railing to Instagram a shot of Petit-Champlain, which is located at the bottom of Cap Diamant, with the Saint-Lawrence River in the distance.

rue haldimand

(point of interest)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Urban Guides Canada (@urbanguidesca) on May 1, 2017 at 10:55am PDT

Leaving Dufferin Terrace, walk past Au 1884 (the gazebo), up the stairs, and into Jardins des Gouverneurs. Here, in the centre of the garden, you will find a monument erected to honour General James Wolfe & Marquis de Montcalm ; one English, the other French, both died during the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759 (which only lasted 15 mins).

From the top right corner of Jardins des Gouverneurs, you’ll see rue Haldimand, a short street with a steep hill, the houses on this street date back to 1823 — owned by a couple of mayors, legislative councillor, a lawyer, a notary and a judge. To be honest, we just love the houses and the fine details that can be found when we look closely.

• Take time to admire the fine architectural details on the houses along rue Haldimand – the ornate knobs are our favourite!

terrasse pierre-dugua-de-mons

(viewpoint)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Urban Guides Canada (@urbanguidesca) on Feb 29, 2016 at 8:25am PST

A popular spot with visitors in spring, summer, and fall, Terrasse Pierre-Duga-de-Mons is a small terrace situated above Dufferin Terrace. A small terrace with a little flower garden and bench seating, a bronze bust of Pierre Duga de Mons (sculpted by Hamilton MacCarthy in 2007) rests in the centre.

Pierre Duga de Mons, a French explorer who travelled to the new world on a couple of occasions at the beginning of the 17th century, before entrusting his lieutenant, Samuel de Champlain to establish the colony of New France — known today as Quebec City.

• Walk up to the top of the grassy hill for one of the best views of Château Frontenac, the Saint-Lawrence River, and Old Quebec City. It’s a classic postcard shop — and one of our favourite places to go for sunset picnics.

instagram stop

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After Instagramming your classic postcard shot of Quebec, following the path along the top of the Citadel, making your way to back to rue Saint-Louis, then continuing on the next point of interest on rue Donnacona — of course, you may want to make a couple of Instagram stops along the way, here are some suggestions:

• Visit La Citadelle, a military fortress that is over 300 years old, and still active! Instagram the changing of the guard in summer, or a cool shot of the fortress walls and guns.
• Visit the ramparts and fortifications of Quebec on rue Saint-Louis, climb the stairs at the wall to get a shot from above.
• Walk down rue Saint Louis to rue de Corps de Garde where you’ll find a cannonball lodged at the base of the tree– it’s said to have landed there during the Battle of Québec in 1759, OR placed here on purpose to keep horse-drawn carriages from bumping the tree.
• Instagram some of the unique doors on rue Donnaconna or Monastère des Ursulines de Québec.

cathédrale holy trinity

(31, rue des jardins)

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The first Anglican church to be built outside Britain, The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity is the seat of the Diocese of Quebec City. Built between 1800 and 1804, the cathedral is British-Palladian – in architectural style – and fashioned after London’s Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields. The cathedral’s tower has eight bells, the heaviest being 840 kg and the lightest being 297 kg. The cathedral is also home to a silver communion set which was ordered by King George III.

• Take time to admire the intricate details inside the cathedral: the ornate ceiling, the antique wooden pews, the beautiful stained glass windows. There are so many beautiful details to photograph, and admire.
• Want to know more? Consider taking a guided tour of the cathedral with a local historian. Book a tour here .

(15, rue des jardins)

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As much as we love to walk around and explore this beautiful city, sometimes we like to take a mini-break to enjoy a café au lait, espresso, or chocolat chaud ; a fresh pastry or macaron is also a must. One of our favourite spots in Old Quebec City is La Maison Smith.

A new café in Upper Town (the original location is down in Place-Royale), La Maison Smith is small with seating for roughly twenty-two people. The focus is on their extensive counter, which holds delightfully delicious pastries made by Paillard as well as macarons and cakes made locally, and gourmet sandwiches. This is an LGTBQIA2S+ safe space.

My recommendation: café au lait or chocolat chaud and a warmed croissant avec amandes (almond croissant).

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• After your café break stop by Notre-Dame de Québec: admire the gorgeous details inside, the old wooden spiral stairs, stained glass, and more!
• Wander down rue Saint-Famille, then exploring the quiet streets of rue Garneau and rue Christie.
• Chez Temporel (women-owned + LGBTQIA2S+ safe space) on rue Couillard has been a favourite among local artists for years — and appears in the book Bury Your Dead by Louise Penny.
• From rue Couillard wander onto rue Hébert, looking for the fine architectural details that seem to pop when you pay close attention.
• Turning left on rue des Remparts, take time to Instagram the cannons along the city wall, or admire some of the unique architecture on the houses across the street.

rue sous-le-cap

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As you walk along rue des Remparts the road will fork, stay right. Turn right onto Côte du Colonel Dambourgès, a charming cobbled street. As you reach the bottom of the hill, Sous-le-Cap will be on the right.

Known as the oldest and narrowest street in Quebec City, Sous-le-Cap is a skinny street/alley that runs behind many of the buildings along rue Saint-Paul. In the beginning, the street was nothing more than a dirt track running along the base of Cap Diamant, not far from the banks of the St. Lawrence River (yes, the river was once very close to the cap).

Easily one of our favourite spots on this self-guided tour of Quebec City!

• Wander down rue Sous-le-Cap and Instagram a shot of the wooden staircases and terraces that span across the street.

place-royale

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Follow rue due Sault au Matelot, turn right onto Côte de la Montagne, then an immediate left on rue Notre Dame. Welcome to Place-Royale. From the beginning of the street, you’ll face La Fresque des Québécois, a fresco mural spanning the side of one of the stone buildings in Place-Royale, which was commissioned for Quebec’s 400th anniversary.

At one end of the square, you’ll see Notre-Dame-des-Victories, one of the oldest churches in Canada — you may recognize it from one of the final scenes shot for the movie Catch Me If You Can with Leonardo DiCaprio. The square is also home to Boutique Métiers d’Art du Québec, a shop selling products made by Québec artists, and the original La Maison Smith café.

• Instagram a shot of the stairs beside La Maison Smith, or find a unique angle to photograph the old stone house.

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• Walking through Place-Royale to Quartier Petit-Champlain, walk down the small hill to Cul-de-Sac, from this point you’ll have a unique shot of Petit-Champlain with Château Frontenac standing majestically in the background.
• Wander down rue Sous le Fort (just before Cul-de-Sac) and Instagram the Batterie Royale or some of the fieldstone houses along the street.
• Stand at the corner of rue Notre Dame and rue Sous le Fort for a shot of Petit-Champlain, the funiculaire track rising to the top of Cap Diamant, and a portion of Château Frontenac.
• Take a detour to the Quebec-Levis ferry and ride it across the St Lawrence River (and back) for a classic shot of the Quebec skyline.

petit-champlain

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Continue this self-guided tour of Quebec City with a walk along Boulevard Champlain, stopping in Fudgerie for a sweet snack, and photographing the Cul-de-Sac or the boulevard before reaching the stairs leading to the beginning of rue du Petit-Champlain.

One of the oldest neighbourhoods in Quebec City, Petit-Champlain was revitalized in the 1960s (it had, over time, been taken over by warehouses and become a kind of slum) when the city made the decision to restore it to its glory days, making it a tourist destination. Today Quartier Petit-Champlain is a charming neighbourhood filled with boutiques, historically restored houses, and gourmet restaurants.

• Keep your eyes open for pieces of street Banksy-esque street art, or take the classic shot of rue du Petit-Champlain with the stairs of lower in the far distance. There are many Instagram-worthy stops, including Escalier Casse-Cou , the oldest stairs in Quebec City!!

ending point: fairmont château frontenac

1, rue des Carrières

After exploring and Instagramming your way down rue du Petit-Champlain take the funicluaire ($4 CAD) up the cap to Dufferin Terrace. You have now completed this self-guided tour of Quebec City and back at the starting point.

If you’re still up for exploring wander through the inside of Château Frontenac to admire its Great Gatsby-like feeling — we are suckers for royal blue and gold accents. They have a tour as well!

• Feeling hungry? We highly suggest enjoying gourmet poutine or delicious burgers at Le Chic Shack , located just below Musée du Fort.

Pamela MacNaughtan

Hello, I'm Pamela! I'm a travel and food writer, chocolat chaud addict, an anglophone who prefers life in Quebec. When I'm not working on Urban Guide Quebec, I am writing about Quebec City, travelling, updating guidebooks, and writing freelance! There's a good chance I'm planning my next Quebec road trip, got tips?

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