Once a year in the fall we like to visit Old Quebec City. While there are many hotels to choose from, the magical castle in upper town known as Le Château Frontenac is one of our favourite options to stay within the walls.
This historic hotel was opened in 1893 and has over 600 guest rooms. It is one of the most photographed buildings in Quebec City and makes for a memorable stay. You can also take a guided tour of the hotel to find out more of the hotel’s history.
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is in one of the best locations in Old Quebec City. Located in Upper-Town and is conveniently within walking distance of some of the best sights and shops. Lower-Town is easy to access by the funicular right outside the Château.
Many of Old Quebec’s best restaurants are within a few minutes’ walk in Upper or Lower town. The hotel also has its own selection of excellent restaurants and a fabulous Bar called 1608. We recommend enjoying a great meal at one of the restaurants located in the hotel.
While boasting a great selection of other amenities such as a wonderful pool and spa facilities, the staff and service are second to none. From arrival to departure, the staff at Le Château Frontenac make your stay a pleasant one.
Quebec Road Trip
This fall adventure is usually a road trip that we take from Toronto, sometimes stopping in Montreal for a night on the way.
We try to plan our trip for an early afternoon arrival. If you arrive before 3pm and your room is not ready, just leave your bags with the bell hops and go and explore the city.
Parking tip: Use the valet. We have done self-park before but it can be a long walk with your bags through various hallways with minor stairs. Try and tip the valet $5 CDN when they take your vehicle, these drivers are hustling most of the day and will be very appreciative. Parking is around $35-40 a night, make sure to take this into account when staying here.
While we usually arrive around lunchtime, on this trip we decided to head over to Île D’Orléans and drove around the island visiting local business and to take in the fall colours. This drive is 60km total around the island and well worth a visit. Take note that many businesses close after the middle of October as their high season has ended. You can plan your trip by looking up their information here: Île D’Orléans Tourism.
On the way to Île D’Orléans or coming back into Old Quebec city make sure to visit Montmorency Falls. You can view the falls for free from their observation platform down below or enter the park up top and even walk across the falls from the bridge.
Some excellent lunch options on the day of your arrival include Aux Anciens Canadiens which is steps from the hotel. You could also take the funicular or walk down the hill to Lower Town and check out Lapin Sauté, Cochon Dingue, Bistro Sous Le Fort as they all have lunch menus.
Hotel Check-in
Depending on the time of year and how busy the hotel is, you can always try to ask for any room upgrade.
Check-in usually quite quick and there’s a concierge located in the same area where you can collect your bags if you dropped them off earlier or need to have them sent up to your room.
Le Château Frontenac Rooms
On this trip we booked an old city view. You can also choose various rooms with views of the St. Lawrence or the inner castle walls. Your room could be in the tower section or located along the outer walls of the hotel.
The hotel has Signature rooms which feature some of the best views from Le Château Frontenac. There are also Gold level rooms located on floors 14-16. The Gold level floors have their own check in and feature upgraded amenities and views as well as canapés and breakfast in their own lounge area.
Even the most basic rooms have wonderful amenities with comfortable bedding, linens, and a lovely selection of toiletries. If needed, you can make alternative room amenity requests such as hypoallergenic pillows prior to arrival. Rooms are cleaned daily. The housekeeping staff are fast to respond to any requests and aim to take care of guest needs.
Pool Facilities
The pool is located on Level 6 and requires key card entry. The pool and gym area have change rooms. To receive pool towels just give them your room number. Fresh fruit and water are also available in the pool area.
The pool is a decent size and includes one hot tub. The area is very decorative with classic tiling and has chaise loungers and regular chairs with tables. In the summer you can use their outdoor terrace which now features outdoor cabanas.
Breakfast Options
Starbucks is located on the lower level of the hotel, or you can have a wonderful breakfast in the Place Dufferin also on the lower level. We ate here daily as it was included with our hotel stay package.
The breakfast menu has one item average prices of $18 or you can choose the full breakfast for $45 which has many dishes included as well as pastries.
The Place Dufferin restaurant has fantastic views of the Dufferin Terrace and looking out on the St. Lawrence River.
Le Sam Bistro - For Lunch or Dinner
This restaurant had an upscale and trendy vibe with views of the St. Lawrence River. Lights are dimmed at night for dinner with colourful ambient lighting.
Le Sam Bistro has great booths with comfortable seating as well as a beautiful bar area.
The food dishes are all creative, well presented and contain authentic Quebec fare with excellent desserts.
Make sure to try some of their specialty cocktails! The Gin drinks are signature and decorative. Le Sam Bistro has decent pricing for dinner at $130 for two with drinks.
Bar 1608
This bar is named after the creation of Quebec City in 1608. You can choose from many signature cocktails, beer or wine and many other beverages and some food appetizers.
It can be very busy at times with limited circular seating and a few spots right at the bar. The fireplace seating is also an excellent spot.
The cocktails can get quite expensive up to $36, but well-crafted and worth the ambience.
Champlain Restaurant
This restaurant is more upscale than Le Sam Bistro and has Authentic Quebec fare with gourmet plating and presentation.
The Champlain restaurant has some views of the St. Lawrence River with a quiet and intimate setting.
Le Château Frontenac Hotel Shops
The hallway in between Bar 1608 and the main lobby is lined with beautiful boutique shops. The wood and brass elements are in the classic historical Château décor. Take a moment to enjoy this architecture that was created hundreds of years ago. This space is also where the special seasonal decorations are displayed.
There is also a marble staircase to the main lower and upper level of the hotel. Many conferences take place here with their extensive facilities.
Le Château Frontenac is a terrific hotel to stay at while visiting Old Quebec City. The staff are friendly, attentive, and efficient. As a guest you are made to feel comfortable and never rushed.
The location and amenities onsite are wonderful. Book your stay at Le Château Frontenac to experience and enjoy Old Quebec.
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