2 Days in Québec City: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Start your day with a visit to Observatoire de la Capitale, the city’s highest viewpoint. Perched 221 metres above sea level, you’ll have striking views over the star-shaped Citadelle, the river, and the fortifications surrounding Old Québec.

Bird’s-eye views are also on the menu at Ciel! Bistro-Bar, the city’s only revolving restaurant, on the 28^th floor of Hotel Le Concorde.

A short walk from the observatory will take you to the Parliament Building, home to Québec’s National Assembly. The main façade is adorned with 26 bronze statues of men and women who shaped the province’s history. Take a free guided tour to learn more about how Québec’s government institutions work.

Québec City’s largest urban park—and the site of the famous Battle of the Plains of Abraham—is just across the street. Stroll through this city-centre oasis, visit the Plains of Abraham Museum, and take part in one of the many activities at this national historic park.

Next, pass under the Saint-Louis gate and head to Old Québec. Côte de la Citadelle takes you right to the biggest British fortress in North America. The Citadelle is part of the fortifications that encircle the historic district and is one of the reasons Old Québec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can walk along the star-shaped walls and take a guided tour.

Rue Saint-Louis leads straight to Château Frontenac, but take our advice and explore the maze of quaint streets inside the fortifications, each more picturesque than the last. Taking time to discover Old Québec’s hidden gems is always time well spent.

Step inside Château Frontenac and marvel at the 400-year-old historical artifacts on display throughout the hotel. Pro tip: take a guided tour to learn even more about this iconic landmark. Back outside, feast your eyes on the view from Dufferin Terrace.

Why not end the day with a good meal at one of the restaurants inside the fortifications? You could also stop in at an Upper Town microbrewery such as Inox or Les 3 Brasseurs for a pint of local craft beer.

Explore Petit-Champlain and the charming main street lined with local shops. This district is also home to Place Royale, the legendary square where Québec was founded in 1608. The style of architecture is a fascinating blend of French and British influences. Then head towards the river and soak up the laid-back vibe of the Old Port.

Musée de la civilisation is an eye-opening window onto different facets of the human condition. With special interactive displays for children and teens, there truly is something for everyone.

A river cruise is the best way to snap Instagram-worthy shots of Québec City. The views from the St. Lawrence River are simply stunning. In summer, hop on board AML’s MV Louis Jolliet for a narrated cruise to Montmorency Falls and Île d’Orléans. In winter, take the ferry and watch giant ice blocks collide as you cross the St. Lawrence River.

Those 48 hours go by fast! With a little more time, you could explore more great neighbourhoods and get an even better feel for Québec City.