48 Hours in Québec City

A Cultural Escape Steeped in History, Flavour and Art

There’s something deeply enchanting about Québec City. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only fortified city north of Mexico, its old-world charm and modern creativity coexist seamlessly. With just 48 hours, you can uncover a vibrant blend of French-Canadian culture, natural wonders, fine art and Indigenous craftsmanship – all wrapped in warm hospitality and superb food.

Day One: History, Heritage and the Heart of the City

Start your day early in Vieux-Québec, the Old Town, where cobbled streets, 17th-century stone buildings and horse-drawn carriages paint a cinematic picture of the city’s colonial past. Exploring with a private guide, you’ll discover the hidden stories of one of North America’s oldest settlements. Pause at Place Royale, often called the cradle of French civilisation in North America, before taking the funicular up to Château Frontenac, the grand hotel perched above the St Lawrence River.

From there, stroll along Dufferin Terrace for sweeping views of the river and Lower Town. Step through the city gates to reach the Plains of Abraham, where manicured lawns belie the battlefield that once shaped Canada’s future. It’s the perfect place to unwind, perhaps with a home-cooked picnic arranged by our local team, packed with Quebecois cheeses, fresh bread and seasonal fruit.

To continue a full immersion in the history and culture of French Canada, spend the afternoon at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec. This light-filled architectural gem on the edge of the Plains contains a collection that spans centuries, with a strong focus on contemporary Quebecois artists. A private tour with one of the curators is a hugely rewarding way to understand the province’s artistic identity, no matter your interest or knowledge of art.

Evening calls for dinner in the old town, where the food scene has boomed over the last few years. In May 2025, Michelin added the city to its listings for the very first time, with four restaurants receiving stars. A particular favourite is Légende, where a seasonal tasting menu is built around the terroir of Québec and paired with an excellent wine list (the cocktails are also some of the best we’ve seen!).

Day Two: Art, Flavour and Island Charm

The next morning, take the short drive to Montmorency Falls. At 83m, they’re taller than Niagara and no less dramatic. Getting there early in the morning helps to avoid the crowds that can gather and also gives you the best light for photography as you walk across the suspension bridge with dizzying but dazzling views.

Île d’Orléans, a bucolic island in the St Lawrence that feels worlds away from the city, is just a short drive from the falls. Known as Québec’s garden, the island is dotted with orchards, vineyards and artisan producers. Enjoy a private, curated tasting experience, starting with wine and ice cider alongside local cheeses, charcuterie and home-baked produce at a small, family-run estate. Visit some unique vineyards where locals are invested in developing rare grapes and taste wines that you won’t find in your local vintners. At Tigidou, a beautifully restored jam factory housed in an old general store, meet the passionate makers and sample everything from sea buckthorn to wild blueberry preserves. All this on a beautiful island covered in Maple trees and sparesly populated.

End your stay with something truly special: a jewellery-making workshop with a First Nations artist. This immersive experience introduces you to traditional techniques and materials, porcupine quills, caribou hide, and antler as you learn about the stories and symbolism behind each piece. It’s a meaningful way to connect with Indigenous culture, and you’ll leave with your own handmade souvenir.

As the sun sets over the city’s copper rooftops and cathedral spires you can experience one of the other great restaurants, or head out for the famous poutine. However you spend your time here, it’s easy to see why Québec City captures the hearts of those who visit. Whether you come for the history, the food or the creative spirit – or ideally, all three – this is a place that lingers long after you’ve left.