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Picture of Québec, QC, Canada

Travel Guide for
Québec

Canada

Humid continental with cold winters

Introduction

Québec City, located on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, charms visitors with cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture. Founded in 1608, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in French-Canadian history and vibrant culture.

During late October to early November, the weather is crisp with beautiful fall foliage—perfect for family strolls through Old Québec and cozy cafés. Enjoy interactive museums like the Musée de la civilisation and explore the historic Plains of Abraham, great for picnics and outdoor play. Québec City offers a magical, wallet-friendly experience packed with discovery and warmth.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleFamily friendly

Dates22 Oct - 05 Nov 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHostel

Interests and Activities:

outdoor adventures

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Picture of Québec, QC, Canada

Key Facts

Location

Capitale-Nationale, Québec

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Religion

Christianity (mainly Catholic)

Population

549,459

Language

French, English

Electricity

120V, 60Hz, Type A/B

Time zone

UTCEST (UTC-5)

Country code

+1

Internet access

Broadband, high-speed, widely available

Climate

Humid continental with cold winters

See More Canada Facts

Language:

French

  • hello

    bonjour (bohn-zhoor)
  • goodbye

    au revoir (oh ruh-vwahr)
  • yes

    oui (wee)
  • no

    non (noh(n))
  • how much

    combien ça coûte? (kohm-byen sah koot)
  • please

    s'il vous plaît (seel voo pleh)
  • thank you

    merci (mehr-see)
  • excuse me

    excusez-moi (ex-kew-zay mwah)

Map

Logistics

Getting to Québec City is easy and family-friendly. The Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) welcomes direct flights from major Canadian cities and select destinations in the U.S. For a scenic trip, Via Rail trains connect Montréal and Québec City in about three hours, which is great for families. Comfortable intercity buses also link Québec City with Montréal, Ottawa, and other Eastern Canadian destinations at affordable rates.

Driving along Highway 20 or 40 from Montréal is another popular option, offering flexibility for families. While the St. Lawrence River occasionally hosts cruise ships, regular passenger ferry services mainly operate within the region. If you're traveling from October 22 to November 5, pack for chilly, unpredictable weather, and check for possible weather-related traffic or flight delays.

Weather

Québec, QC, has a humid continental climate, bringing warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn are shorter, with crisp air and vibrant foliage, especially in October. Outdoor adventures are popular year-round, from hiking and cycling in summer to snow sports in winter.

From October 22 to November 5, you can expect cool, brisk weather with daytime highs between 3°C and 10°C and chilly nights. Winds can be strong, and early snow or heavy rain is possible, so come prepared for damp or slippery trails while exploring Montmorency Falls or city parks. Extreme weather is rare, but sudden cold snaps can occur.

Food & Drink

Québec City’s cuisine is rooted in French and Québécois traditions, with dishes like poutine, tourtière (meat pie), and maple syrup treats. Try sugar pies at local bakeries, and pair your meal with local cider or hot chocolate. Crêperies and cozy bistros cater well to families and serve comfort food that’s easy on picky eaters.

For family dining, Le Cochon Dingue, Casse-Crêpe Breton, and La Bûche offer welcoming atmospheres and reasonable prices. Café La Maison Smith is a great stop for snacks and pastries. Tipping is customary—expect to add 15-20% to your bill. Many spots have seasonal menus, so think hearty fare in winter, lighter dishes in summer, and maple-themed treats in spring. Reservations are recommended at popular places.

A picture of Poutine

Poutine

Poutine is a popular Canadian dish made of crispy French fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in...

A picture of Butter Tarts

Butter Tarts

Butter tarts are a classic Canadian treat made with a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet and...

A picture of Nanaimo Bars

Nanaimo Bars

Nanaimo bars are a delectable layered dessert named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia. The three...

A picture of BeaverTails

BeaverTails

BeaverTails, or Queues de Castor in French, are a beloved Canadian indulgence characterized by their unique elongated, pastry...

A picture of Montreal-Style Bagels

Montreal-Style Bagels

Montreal-style bagels are smaller, denser, and sweeter than their New York counterparts. They are boiled in honey-sweetened water...

Accommodation

For a family-friendly, budget-conscious trip to Québec City, consider staying in the Old Québec neighborhood, close to historic attractions and lovely views. HI Québec (Auberge Internationale de Québec) is a popular, centrally located hostel, offering private family rooms, communal kitchens, and a social atmosphere—perfect for families. You can find this hostel and good hotel deals on Hotels.com, which often features flexible booking and cancellation options.

If you prefer hotels, look for options like Hôtel Château Laurier or Hôtel Terrasse Dufferin—both family-friendly and close to parks and museums. Booking in late October to early November is generally less crowded, but pack warm clothes, as weather turns colder and some attractions may reduce hours. Reserve early on Hotels.com, especially for the best rates and availability.

Itinerary

Start the trip by getting comfortable in Québec City, soaking in the unique ambiance and preparing for two weeks of adventure and exploration.

Stroll Along Terrasse Dufferin

Take a refreshing walk along Terrasse Dufferin, a scenic boardwalk overlooking the St. Lawrence River and Château Frontenac. It's a perfect way to get acquainted with Old Québec's charm and enjoy family photos with an iconic backdrop.

Discover Old Port and Bassin Louise

Explore the tranquil Old Port area and Bassin Louise marina. Families can watch boats, feed ducks, and enjoy fresh air while gently easing into Québec City’s relaxed pace.

From Montreal: Quebec City & Montmorency Falls Full Day Trip

From Montreal: Quebec City & Montmorency Falls Full Day Trip

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the charm and beauty of Quebec on this unforgettable day trip. Begin your adventure with a visit to the breathtaking Montmorency Falls, standing 30 meters taller than Niagara Falls. Take in the panoramic views from the suspension bridge or enjoy the cascading roar from the base of the falls. Next, journey to the heart of history with a leisurely guided city walk through Old Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along cobblestone streets, marvel at centuries-old architecture, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. Highlights include the iconic Château Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace, and the quaint Petit-Champlain district. Perfect for travelers seeking a blend of natural wonders and cultural exploration, this day trip offers a snapshot of Quebec's most iconic sights in a single, memorable outing.

4.5 (102 reviews)

From $72 USD

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Attractions

4.9 (139 reviews)
Goat Hiking, Beaver Dam Visit and picnic in Quebec forest

Goat Hiking, Beaver Dam Visit and picnic in Quebec forest

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Hiking with packing goats is a unique way of discovering nature and these amazing animals that are intelligent, funny, and affectionate. Guests will be amazed at the sight of a huge beaver dam on the lake, the abundant wildlife, and the beautiful Quebec forest and landscapes. Watching a real shepherd dog is also a treat and fresh and homemade picking is the perfect way to end a memorable day.

From $76 USD

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4.2 (425 reviews)
Québec City: Whale Watching Tour with Bus Transportation

Québec City: Whale Watching Tour with Bus Transportation

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Embark on a hassle-free adventure from historic Québec City and journey to the stunning Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park for a breathtaking whale watching tour. Choose between a spacious observation boat or an intimate Zodiac ride and encounter up to 13 captivating whale species with guidance from expert naturalists. Sit back and relax with round-trip bus transportation, enjoying a scenic journey through picturesque landscapes along the St. Lawrence River. - Skip driving and enjoy comfortable travel by bus for this full-day adventure - Discover breathtaking Charlevoix landscapes on the journey from historic Québec City - Pick your adventure upon booking between boat or Zodiac, for a unique whale watching experience - Get the chance to observe up to 13 whale species with commentary by naturalist guides - Immerse yourself in the enchanting vistas of the Saguenay Fjord and its surrounding mountains

From $186 USD

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4.6 (132 reviews)
Quebec City: Electric Bike Tour

Quebec City: Electric Bike Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

*** This is a city tour. You will be biking on street with cars in certain areas *** Embark on a historic 3 hours electric bike tour of Québec City and discover its rich heritage in a unique and eco-friendly way! Glide effortlessly through charming cobblestone streets and vibrant neighborhoods while soaking in breathtaking views of the city’s iconic landmarks. Our certified guide will lead you through the captivating stories behind each site, from the fortified walls to the stunning architecture. As you ride, enjoy panoramic vistas of the St. Lawrence River and the picturesque skyline, making this tour a feast for both the eyes and the mind. Experience the best of Québec City’s history with the convenience of an electric bike. Must be over 16 years old , have good balance, be able to ride a bike and be in good physical shape.

From $113 USD

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4.7 (168 reviews)
Quebec City - Electric Bike Rental on Ile d'Orléans

Quebec City - Electric Bike Rental on Ile d'Orléans

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore Île d’Orléans on an eBike, choose a departure time that suits you, rise early for peaceful mornings or take a leisurely afternoon slot, and linger at farms, wineries or river viewpoints of your choice on the tip of the island.

From $46 USD

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4.8 (146 reviews)
Quebec City : Bike Excursion to Montmorency Falls

Quebec City : Bike Excursion to Montmorency Falls

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Join us for an exhilarating bike tour to the breathtaking Montmorency Falls, towering at an impressive 272 feet (83 meters). Ride along the scenic St. Lawrence River on a well-maintained bike path (9 miles one way), where stunning views and natural beauty await you at every turn. This tour includes a ride on the convenient cable car, making it easy to reach the top of the falls. Once there, enjoy a leisurely stroll across the suspension bridge, where you can fully soak in the magnificent vistas of the falls and the lush landscape below. Enhancing your experience, our professional guide will share captivating insights into the area’s history and geography, providing a deeper appreciation of this natural wonder. Whether you're a passionate cyclist or a nature lover, this tour promises a memorable adventure filled with beauty and knowledge!

From $124 USD

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4.9 (354 reviews)
Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City

Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Perfect Combination! This delicious food tour, Quebec’s finest, will introduce you to our City’s famed culinary reputation and to the significance of Quebec’s history and culture. Come hungry as the five course diversed food experience includes two entrées, two main courses and a dessert. Accompanied by a professional and passionate guide, your superb high end food, cultural and city tour is further enhanced by selected wine pairings throughout the evening leaving you feeling fulfilled both intellectually and appetite wise! It is strongly suggested that you tip your guide 15-20% at the end of the tour. If the funicular is closed, we can arrange cab transport to avoid having to walk up the hill, or we can provide a ticket to be used later in the stay, at the customer's discretion (if they wish to walk up).

From $205 USD

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5.0 (7 reviews)
Quebec Old Town Walking Tour With A Guide

Quebec Old Town Walking Tour With A Guide

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover Québec City's rich history and vibrant culture on this private guided walking tour. Starting in the Upper Town district, your guide will walk you through centuries of history, from the early 1600s to the present day. This tour is tailored to your preferences, allowing you to explore Québec City's iconic sites and hidden gems at your own pace. Stroll through Old Québec's narrow streets and stone buildings while learning about the city's unique heritage. Visit landmarks like the Fortifications of Québec, the only remaining walled city in North America, and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, one of Canada's oldest stone churches. See the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and enjoy views of the scenic St. Lawrence River from Terrasse Dufferin. Conclude your tour back in the Upper Town, having experienced a blend of history, architecture, and local stories.

From $82 USD

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4.4 (16 reviews)
Montreal and Quebec 3 Day Small Group Tour From Toronto

Montreal and Quebec 3 Day Small Group Tour From Toronto

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Discover the best of French Canada on this unforgettable 3-day small-group tour from Toronto. Cruise the scenic Thousand Islands (optional), explore Montreal’s vibrant streets and historic squares, and enjoy an optional French dinner. Wander through Old Quebec’s cobblestone charm, marvel at Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls, and soak in the alpine beauty of Mont-Tremblant. Wrap up your journey with a visit to Ottawa’s iconic Parliament Hill before returning to Toronto. A perfect blend of culture, nature, and history—this tour is your passport to Canada’s most captivating cities.

From $551 USD

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4.9 (7 reviews)
Quebec City : Winter Magic Walking Tour

Quebec City : Winter Magic Walking Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

***Please note that it is a guided tour. There will be some waiting time to do the Dufferin Terrasse Slide. During the holidays, the can go from 30 minutes to an hour*** Join us for a day of fun that captures the true Canadian spirit! Begin your adventure with a scenic ride on the funicular, where you can take in breathtaking views of the winter wonderland below. Then, feel the thrill as you zoom down the iconic Dufferin Terrace slide, enjoying an exhilarating rush while overlooking the stunning Château Frontenac and the St. Lawrence River. After your slide, explore the frozen streets of Québec City with our certified guide. Learn about the history of the city and how we adapted winter. Then jump on the ferry and cross the frozen river to the south shore of Quebec City. There lace up your skates and glide on the Ice Rink and take in the view of the winter landscape. To top it all off, warm up with a delicious cup of hot chocolate. Come and play like a true Canadian

From $69 USD

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