Quebec City is like Canada’s version of Europe. The small town, about 3 hours from Montreal is easy enough to see in a weekend (in any season). It’s small streets are barely big enough for the larger North American cars. The French speaking residents also get mildly frustrated at visitors and tourists that refuse to even attempt a bit of Francais when trying to communicate. It’s old world charm is something almost unknown in a ‘newer’ country like Canada. Old Quebec is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well.
Getting There:
Quebec City is easy enough to get to from Toronto for a long weekend. You can fly right out of Billy Bishop Airport with either Porter Airlines or Air Canada for the quick 2-and-a-bit hour flight. To drive there is about 7 – 8 hours (depending on traffic etc) and the train is roughly the same amount of time.
Where to Stay:
You really can’t beat accommodations like the infamous Chateau Frontenac. This Fairmont chain hotel is breathtaking as it sits atop the hill in Old Quebec City. The exceptionally large hotel is a little more on the expensive side but if you can afford to stay there I would definitely recommend it. Many years ago I stayed there for a long weekend during the Carnaval de Quebec and was given a room in the old maid quarters! It was so cool. We had our own little elevator to take us up, with a jacuzzi in the middle of the room.
Airbnb has some really nice places available right in or around Quebec City as well. The price ranges seem to be around $75-95 a night and fairly modern.
What to See and Do
Let me start off by saying that as beautiful as Quebec City is in all seasons, there’s nothing that beats this city covered in a blanket of snow. It seems add a sort of unprecedented quietness between the old stone walls. If you have the chance to visit in the winter, please do yourself a favour and go.
Carnaval de Quebec – While most wouldn’t think to see Quebec City in the Winter I would highly recommend it. Around the end of January to the middle of February they have their Carnaval de Quebec. The famous Bonhomme is the mascot of the Carnaval, I’m still not completely sure what he is but I think he’s some sort of snowman. There are lots of activities taking place in and around the city as well; ice sculpture contests, half marathons in snowshoes, dog sledding racing and lots of delicious food.
Aux Anciens Canada – This red-roofed restaurant is one of the oldest homes in Canada. Built in the mid 1600s (yes this is old for Canada) and still looks much as it did back then. It’s a cozy spot for dinner – I would recommend the duck – and very centrally located to Old Quebec City.
Place Royale – This small cobblestone square contains much of Quebec’s history. From being the homes of rich merchants to the centre of business in the 1600 – 1700s this small square is not one to miss. It’s small museum nearby as I’ve heard is great to visit as well.
Rue Saint John – This street connects Old Quebec City with the more modern areas. This long street is home to many restaurants and shops but definitely one of my favourites while visiting was Erico. Erico has a chocolate museum attached to it! Seriously had some of the coolest statues I’ve seen, and all made of chocolate. The store even has a window where you can catch a glimpse of the chocolatiers making chocolate.
Parliament Hill – This area is actually named after the Hotel du Parliament. Around this area you’ll find the Plains of Abraham (Canada’s first ever national park), and the Observatoire de la Capitale.
La Boutique de Noel de Quebec – No matter what the season, this store in Old Quebec City is a personal favourite. It sells Christmas paraphernalia all year round. You can’t help but walk in and be happy. It could be the dead of summer and you feel like you just walked into December 25th. It’s amazing. The only bad thing is you’re not allowed to take pictures while inside!
Quebec City is very easily seen in two days – three if you want to see some things outside of the city. This simple trip is easily seen in a short weekend!
How lovely! I remember my parents headed up this way long ago and my dad was so thrilled to practice his rusty French 🙂
So happy to have found your blog – another awesome ‘part time traveler’ to add to my list!
Thanks for stopping by Polly 🙂 – and agreed, even though I have terrible French it finally gave me an excuse to use it lol.