We hope that this guide will help you with your trip planning for the best way to spend 3 days in Quebec City, the beautiful provincial capital in Quebec Canada. Please leave any comments on the article you have below.
Quebec City is a must-see destination with its’ cultural and historical beauty on display at every turn. The city offers year-long entertainment which varies with the seasons. In January and February, the Carnaval winter festival lights up the city. During the summer months the city hosts many art and music events. While the spring and fall months are quieter, Quebec City can be enjoyed with fewer crowds and reduced prices for travelers. The abundance of restaurants with great food and wine found here also makes for a culinary adventure.
Quebec City is one of the best cities for tourists to visit in Canada. Old Quebec is divided into two sections named Upper Town and Lower Town. You can walk between these two sections using the many historical staircases or you can ride the funicular between the two. This destination can be easily enjoyed over a long weekend. Here is our recommended itinerary for the best way to spend 3 days in Quebec City.
Day 1: Do a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Upper Town
Château Frontenac
Upper Town holds several sights with the Château Frontenac being the most famous landmark. This beautiful and historic hotel looks like part castle and part fortress between the stone exterior and turrets.
Terrasse Dufferin
In front of the Château is the Terrasse Dufferin, a grand 425 meter long boardwalk overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Walking southwest along the boardwalk will bring you to the Plains of Abraham.
Plains of Abraham
The Plains of Abraham was the site of a battle in 1759 where the British attacked the French and took control of Quebec City then known as ‘New France’.
Basilica of Notre Dame de Quebec
The Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Quebec is a historic church. Inside you will find stained glass windows and gold decorations. The cathedral also contains a crypt that holds over 900 tombs.
Chapelle des Ursulines
This convent, Couvent des Ursulines was founded in 1639. You can tour this convent to see the original chapel, learn about the lives of the nuns, and see their wood carvings. Today the Ursulines remains an active elementary school.
Musée du Fort
The Musée du Fort houses a 400 square foot replica of Old Quebec City featuring cannons, soldiers, and ships all battle-ready. You can also view a sound and light show which re-enacts the Battle of the Plains of Abraham and the American attack in 1775. The permanent museum exhibitions here display the military history of soldiers in New France.
Rue du Tresor
Another sight not to be missed while in upper town is Rue du Tresor. This is an alley where local artists display and sell their work. It is definitely worth a stroll as there is a variety of artwork to see.
Day 2: Self-guided Walking Tour of Lower Town
Place Royale
Place Royale gives you a glimpse into the colonial past with steep-roofed stone houses and a cobblestone square. There are many shops and cafes at this sight. There is also a large mural named the Fresque des Québécois which displays over 400 years of Quebec’s history on the east side of the square.
Elise Notre-Dame-Des-Victoires
Built in 1688 the Elise Notre-Dame-des-Victoires is the oldest church in Quebec City. Inside you will notice the interesting fortress shape of the altar. There are several paintings inside of this church depicting the history of New France. The side chapel is dedicated to Ste. Genevieve, whom is the patron saint of Paris. For more information visit Elise Notre-Dam-Des-Victoires
L’Escalier Casse-Cou
L’Escalier Casse-Cou also known as “Breakneck Stairs” are the 59 steep steps connecting the upper and lower towns. This site is worthy of a photo op whether you have just ascended or descended the steps. There are shops and restaurants located here as well.
Rue de Petit Champlain
At the bottom of the ‘breakneck steps’ and just outside of the funicular station you can begin your walk along Rue de Petit Champlain the oldest street in Quebec City. There are many places to visit on this street including; boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. There is an abundance of local craftsmanship is on display amongst the many carvings and paintings. One of our favourite boutiques on this street is Pot en Ciel a wonderful store which sells various dishware and kitchen essentials.
Musée de la Civilisation
The Musée de la Civilization has two captivating permanent exhibits regarding Quebec’s history and the Aboriginal nations of this province. The combined glass and limestone building is also an interesting architectural structure. This museum is highly recommended during a visit to Quebec City.
Old Port
Another point of interest is the Old Port area. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the St. Lawrence River where you will pass by the marina and cruise terminal. Quebec City is also a famous port of call for cruise ships.
Day 3: Recommended Sights Just Outside of Quebec City
During your 3 days in Quebec City take the opportunity for one of these memorable day trips with more fantastic sights.
Ile d’Orleans
The Ile d’Orleans is a small island located in the St. Lawrence River 5km east of Quebec City. The island is divided into 6 villages and home to approximately 7000 residents. The Ile d’Orleans bridge crosses the river for access onto the island. You can drive Route 368 which circles the perimeter of the island to visit the villages and see their sights. If you do not have a vehicle there are also bus tours which can take you to the island. Ile d’Orleans is filled with beautiful countryside wherein the villages you can explore; chocolateries, cheesemakers, gardens, historic churches, local art galleries, microbreweries, restaurants, shops, sugar shacks, and vineyards. Saint Petronille on the western end of the island offers a panoramic view of the St. Lawrence River and Quebec City skyline. Here there is also an exciting view of the Montmorency Falls.
Montmorency Falls
Just a 15-minute drive outside of Old Quebec you can visit the Montmorency Falls. This beautiful waterfall cascades down from a height of 83 meters. Choose your vantage point whether it is from the ground, riding a cable car, or crossing the suspended bridge. You can also take a half day tour to see the falls and Sainte Anne de Beaupré, this can be a wonderful option if you don’t have your own transportation.
The Quebec-Levi Ferry
The Quebec-Lévis Ferry connects the north and south shores of the St. Lawrence River and transports many people into the city daily. Although the ride is relatively short, (less than 15 minutes) while onboard you will enjoy spectacular views of the city’s skyline, Cap Diamant, and the Chateau Frontenac. The ferry runs both during the day and into the evening. For more information on schedules and fares, you can see it here.
Another fun way to discover Quebec City and surrounding sights is to take a guided cruise along the St. Lawrence River. This cruise will take you from Old Quebec to the Ile d’Orleans and the stunning Montmorency Falls. The river vantage point allows for panoramic views of the Quebec City skyline including the Chateau Frontenac.
Best Places to Stay in Quebec City
There are many hotel options to keep visitors comfortable for 3 days in Quebec City. Here are two of our recommendations located within the walls, one being in lower town and the other in the upper town.
Le Germain Hôtel
This boutique hotel in heart of lower town offers both comfort and luxury to guests. While we have stayed at several hotels during our many visits to Quebec City over the years this is our favourite. The rooms are well-appointed with lovely furnishing. Le Germain Hôtel is the perfect home base when visiting Quebec City.
Château Frontenac
The Château Frontenac makes for a memorable stay while in Quebec City. This hotel is conveniently located in the upper town within walking distance of many sights, shops, and local restaurants. There are also several renowned bars and restaurants within this hotel should you opt to stay in. Being a guest at the Château Frontenac should be experienced at least once in your lifetime.
Best Places to Eat?
As previously stated Quebec City offers an abundance of great restaurants. The fantastic food choices were so plentiful that we had to create a separate post about it. Check out our Top 10 restaurants in Quebec City.
With so much to offer visitors, 3 days in Quebec City can easily be enjoyed on a long weekend or midweek. You could extend your time on a getaway at any time of the year and always find lots more to do. Our favourite time to visit is during autumn when the fall foliage makes for a scenic drive when the city has fewer crowds and hotel deals are plentiful. Be sure to include Quebec City on your travel list soon.
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