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US DOLLARS ($)

+44 207 384 2332 Plan Your Trip

+44 207 384 2332 Plan your trip

French Canada

Québec City Holidays

HIGHLIGHTS
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HOTELS
GOOD TO KNOW
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Why visit Québec City

Québec City is one of North America’s most enchanting destinations – a place where French history, culture and architecture come vividly to life. As the continent’s only walled city north of Mexico, it offers a rare sense of old-world charm, with cobbled streets, stone buildings and views over the St Lawrence River.

Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, stop for coffee in a leafy square, or visit landmarks like Château Frontenac and the Citadel. The city’s cultural calendar is rich and varied – from winter carnivals and summer music festivals to open-air theatre and art installations. French is spoken everywhere, giving it a distinctly European feel without ever leaving Canada.

Food is a highlight: from fine dining in historic manor houses to cosy bistros serving Québécois classics like tourtière and poutine, there’s a strong sense of place on every plate. Beyond the city, the surrounding countryside offers vineyards, waterfalls and charming riverside villages perfect for day trips.

Ice canoe race

In late January, when the St Lawrence River is full of broken ice, teams take to home made canoes to cross as fast as they can. Places are open for anyone (including tourists) to take part if you want a challenge!

The origin of Canada

The origin of Canada lies in Québec, where First Nations met French explorers. The name “Canada” comes from “kanata” – the St Lawrence Iroquoian word for “village” or “settlement.”

Highlights of Québec

Old Québec (Vieux-Québec): A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only walled city in North America north of Mexico. Expect cobbled streets, centuries-old stone buildings, lively squares and a strong sense of French colonial heritage.
Château Frontenac: Perhaps the most photographed hotel in the world, this grand hilltop château dominates the skyline. Whether you’re staying inside or simply strolling past, it’s a must-see.
The Citadel and Plains of Abraham: Walk the ramparts of this active military fortress and explore the sweeping green spaces where French and British armies once clashed – now perfect for picnics and panoramic views.
Petit-Champlain District: One of the oldest commercial neighbourhoods in North America. Wander its narrow lanes filled with artisan shops, galleries and cafés, all beneath strings of fairy lights and hanging baskets.
Île d’Orléans: Just 15 minutes from the city, this pastoral island is dotted with orchards, vineyards and farmsteads. A day spent here meeting local producers is a serious treat. The best way to sample local wines, cheeses, fruits, jams, maple syrup and, of course, poutine is with a private picnic in an orchard.
Quartier Saint-Roch: A creative, up-and-coming district filled with indie boutiques, third-wave coffee shops, street art and a younger local crowd, a contrast to the Old Town’s traditional charm.

Where to stay

Best hotels in Québec City

Nothing but the best. Browse our handpicked, tried-and-tested luxury hotels + lodges.

Luxury Hotel

Auberge Saint-Antoine, Québec

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Luxury Hotel

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Québec

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Ice Hotel

Hôtel de Glace, Québec

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Gallery

Montmorency Falls, Québec

Québec City at night

Québec Museum of Fine Art

Jam factory on Isle de Orleans

If you've never been jam tasting, you're missing out!

When we say a picnic - this is what we have in mind

Vines on the Isle de Orleans

Good to know

Getting to Québec City

While there are no direct flights from the UK, Québec is well served by domestic flights and there are direct links to Paris, Chicago, Philadelphia and new York.

When to go

Best time to visit

Good time to visit

Average time to visit

OUR FAVOURITE TIME TO VISIT

Québec City is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm. Winter transforms the city into a snowy fairytale, complete with ice sculptures, Christmas markets and the famous Winter Carnival. In spring, cobbled streets come back to life as flowers bloom and café terraces reopen. Summer is vibrant and warm, perfect for festivals, walking tours and river cruises. Come autumn, the city is bathed in golden hues, and nearby Île d’Orléans is ideal for cider tasting and harvest drives.