Frequently Asked Questions

Activities and Attractions

What to see or do in Old Québec City?

There is so much to see and do in Old Québec! Enter the Château Frontenac to discover its magnificent entrance hall or take a tour with a guide. Enjoy the beautiful views of Old Québec and the St. Lawrence River from the Dufferin and Pierre-Dugua-De Mons terraces. We also enjoy going down the Casse-Cou staircase and shopping in Petit-Champlain, followed by a stop at Place-Royale and the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church.

We also recommend to take a walk along the fortifications, visit the Basilica-Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Québec, the Citadel, the Plains of Abraham and the Parliament Building.

What to visit beyond Old Québec?

We recommend exploring the neighbourhoods around Old Québec on foot or by bike. In addition to offering a different architecture and atmosphere, the central neighbourhoods are full of shops, cafés, restaurants and activities.

Can we visit Château Frontenac?

Yes, it is possible to enter the Château Frontenac, visit the entrance hall and even have a drink or eat there. Take the opportunity to admire the historical artifacts presented in the basement of the hotel.

To learn more about this mythical place, a guided tour is also offered by Cicerone.

At what time is the changing of the guard at the Citadelle?

The changing of the guard ceremony has been replaced by a musical performance by the Royal 22e Regiment band that takes place from Wednesday to Sundays at 10 a.m. all summer long as well as at 4 p.m. every Saturday in July and August.

Where can I buy tickets for the red double-decker hop-on hop-off bus?

It is possible to buy tickets online on the Unitours website or by going to their kiosk inside the tourist information office at 12, rue Sainte-Anne (in front of the Château Frontenac).

How do I take the funicular?

Simply buy your ticket at the upper station (Dufferin terrace) or at the lower station (16, rue du Petit-Champlain). Cash only. People in wheelchairs ride the funicular for free.

What is there to do when it rains?

With kids:

  • Aquarium du Québec
  • Bora Parc indoor waterpark
  • Several amusement centres such as the Méga Parc des Galeries de la Capitale, Isaute, Récréofun and Carie Factory
  • Escape or laser tag games

For everyone:

  • Museums and interpretation centres
  • Attractions of Old Québec such as the Observatoire de la Capitale, the Parliament Building, churches, the Citadel and the Monastère des Augustines
  • Shopping malls, such as Galeries de la Capitale and Laurier Québec
  • Cinemas

Outdoor activities to do in the rain:

  • Rafting
  • Water slides at Village Vacances Valcartier
  • Nordic spas

Restaurants

Where can I find the best croissants?

Here are the bakeries that serve the best croissants in and around Old Québec: Café-boulangerie Paillard, Épicerie québécoise (Chez Boulay - Comptoir Boréal), La Boîte à Pain, Borderon et fils et Épi’Fanny.

Where can I have onion soup?

French onion soup is a Québec classic. Lots of restaurants have it on the menu, but here are a few that do it best in Old Québec: Pub L’Oncle Antoine, Bistro Le Sam, Au Petit Coin Breton, Lapin Sauté et Buffet de l’Antiquaire. 

Where will I find the best crêpes?

This classic Breton dish is a testament to Québec City’s French culinary heritage. Here are some of the best places to enjoy crêpes: Casse-Crêpe Breton, Au Petit Coin Breton et Le Billig.

Transportation

Where can we rent bicycles and e-bikes?

It is possible to rent bicycles and accessories at Cyclo Services, Echo Sports Tours and Tuque & bicycle expériences in the Old Port area.

The àVélo bike-sharing service offers electrically-assisted bicycles located in many stations in Old Québec and central neighbourhoods. Wearing a helmet is mandatory. Some hotels located near stations have helmets available to lend: check with your accommodation establishment to find out if they offer this service.

Where do I buy RTC bus tickets?

The buses of the Réseau de transport de la capitale (RTC) provide access to most tourist attractions.

It is possible to pay for a passage in cash on board ($3.75). However, you must have the exact amount because the drivers do not give change. Nearly 170 businesses sell RTC titles (mainly convenience stores and pharmacies). Look for identification in display cases.

There is also a mobile application, the RTC Nomade, to buy transport tickets, anywhere and at any time, without having to go to a point of sale.

General questions

Where can I change my money?

It is possible to change your money in banks and exchange offices. Here are some addresses of exchange offices in Old Québec.

  • Devises Vieux-Québec : 1127, rue Saint-Jean, G1R 1S3
  • Ice International Currency Exchange : 43, rue De Buade, G1R 4A2
  • Ice International Currency Exchange : 12, rue Sainte-Anne, G1R 3X2

Can I use US dollars in Québec City?

Yes, you can use US Dollars in Québec City, however, Canadian dollars and American dollars are not at par. American currency is accepted at most establishments, but the rates of exchange fluctuate. 

How do I get free Wi-Fi in Québec City?

Québec City offers Wi-Fi free access points on many commercial streets. Look for the free Wi-Fi visual and follow the instructions to connect to the ZAP Quebec network. 

Is there a pharmacy in Old Québec?

There is a Jean Coutu pharmacy at 1048 rue Saint-Jean and a Familiprix pharmacy at 38 Côte du Palais.