5 ideas for guided tours in Quebec City

• The must-see Old Quebec

  The Old Quebec is best discovered within its ramparts, but not exclusively. Its streets, laid out more than 350 years ago, are filled with historical and architectural treasures.

  As you stroll through, you’ll come across religious institutions founded by the Augustinians, Ursulines, Recollects, and Jesuits, who arrived from France at the beginning of the colony. Their mission? To evangelize and bring knowledge to Indigenous peoples.

  Wandering these streets allows you to admire the architectural influences inherited from both the French and British regimes. From the glacis of the **Citadel**, the views of the St. Lawrence River are spectacular. Don’t miss a walk along the terrasse Dufferin, adjacent to the impressive hotel “Le Château Frontenac” (which is a château in name only). From up there, you’ll see the narrowest part of the river between Quebec and Lévis, whose Algonquin name, Kebec, was adopted by the French: “Where the river narrows.”

  At the bottom lies Lower Town: Place Royale and Petit-Champlain Street. On the left bank of the St. Lawrence, this district was revitalized 40 years ago to give tourists the impression of stepping back to the 17th century. While residents have gradually left the area, shopkeepers have maintained the authenticity of the historic facades.

• The museums of Quebec City

  Quebec City is full of fascinating museums where history, art, and culture come together. Whether you are passionate about the past of New France or contemporary art, here are some must-visit places.

  • 1. Musée de la civilisation
    Located in Old Quebec, this museum offers interactive exhibitions on Quebec history and world cultures. A captivating journey between past and modernity.
  • 2. Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec
    Nestled on the Plains of Abraham, this museum highlights Quebecois art, from classical to contemporary works. Its Pierre Lassonde Pavilion, with its bold architecture, is worth the visit.
  • 3. Musée de l’Amérique francophone
    This museum explores the history and heritage of Francophones in America. A rewarding visit to better understand Quebec’s cultural identity.
  • 4. Musée du Fort
    Just steps from Château Frontenac, this museum immerses visitors in Quebec’s military history through an animated reenactment of the city’s major battles.
  • 5. Morrin Centre
    A former prison transformed into a library and cultural center, this unusual site reflects the city’s anglophone past and offers fascinating guided tours.

• Montmorency Falls

  About ten kilometers north of Quebec City, Montmorency Falls impresses with its power and towering 83-meter height, surpassing even the famous Niagara Falls. This natural gem, located at the mouth of the St. Lawrence River, promises an unforgettable experience.

  One of the best ways to admire this spectacle is by walking across the suspension bridge that spans the falls. The panoramic view is breathtaking, especially at sunset. For thrill-seekers, the via ferrata and zipline offer a unique adrenaline rush.

  In winter, the magic takes on a different form: the cold transforms the falls into a massive frozen sugar loaf, creating a fairytale-like setting that attracts photographers and ice climbers.

  Accessible by car, bike, or public transit, this must-see site captivates nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. A perfect stop to reconnect with the raw power of the elements.

• Île d’Orléans

  Just 15 minutes from Old Quebec, Île d’Orléans offers a bucolic escape frozen in time. Bordered by the majestic St. Lawrence River, it showcases picturesque countryside landscapes. This little slice of paradise charms travelers in search of authenticity and gourmet discoveries.

  Start your exploration in Sainte-Pétronille, at the western tip of the island. This picturesque village offers a breathtaking view of Montmorency Falls and Quebec City. As you stroll, be captivated by its historic homes and renowned vineyards.

  Continue your journey to Saint-Jean, a must for food lovers. Stop at Cidrerie Bilodeau to taste artisanal cider or sample the famous jams from Confiturerie Tigidou. Every bite showcases local craftsmanship.

  Don’t miss Saint-Laurent-de-l’Île-d’Orléans, a place steeped in history. The Parc maritime de Saint-Laurent immerses you in the region’s naval past, while local artisans keep ancestral traditions alive.

  At the end of the day, head to Saint-François, at the island’s easternmost point. Here, the Pointe-Argentenay lookout offers a stunning panorama of the river and the Charlevoix mountains. A perfect place for a moment of contemplation at sunset.

• Village of Wendake

  Just 10 kilometers from downtown Quebec City, about a 15-minute drive, Wendake invites you to discover the heritage of the Huron-Wendat people, an Indigenous nation that has inhabited these lands for centuries. Proud of their traditions, they have preserved their way of life and ancestral skills.

  The Huron Traditional Site immerses visitors in their daily lives through authentic reconstructions: longhouses, hunting techniques, and local crafts. A fascinating dive into the history of this community.

  Nearby, the Huron-Wendat Museum highlights the rich culture of this nation through interactive exhibits. The impressive longhouse provides insight into their social structure and spiritual beliefs.

  Nature lovers will appreciate Kabir Kouba Falls, a hidden waterfall in the heart of the village, surrounded by scenic trails offering stunning views of the gorges.

  To extend the experience, the Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations offers an immersive stay inspired by traditional dwellings. Its restaurant, La Traite, serves refined dishes featuring game and forest-sourced ingredients.

  Wendake is much more than just a visit—it’s an encounter with a proud people, a living heritage, and a vibrant culture that deserves to be discovered.