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

Femme dans l'Escalier casse-cou du Petit-Champlain
Axelle St-Clair, With Axie

Wondering what to see and do in Québec City in two days? We’ve curated a 48-hour self-guided walking itinerary to help you discover the heart and soul of the city at a manageable pace. Ditch the car and explore Old Québec’s main attractions by foot with zero hassle, in any season.

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Upper Town
  • Day 1 Upper Town

    1

    Observatoire de la Capitale

    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 28th floor of Hotel Le Concorde.

    0.56 km
  • 2

    Parliament Building

    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.

    0.26 km
  • 3

    Plains of Abraham

    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.

  • 4

    Citadelle de Québec

    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, take a guided tour, or even attend a musical performance by the musicians of the Royal 22nd Regiment.

  • 5

    Streets inside the fortifications

    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.

  • 6

    Château Frontenac and Dufferin Terrace

    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

  • Lower Town Highlights
  • Day 2 Lower Town Highlights

    7

    Petit-Champlain and Place Royale

    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.

    0.53 km
  • 8

    Musée de la civilisation

    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.

    0.28 km
  • 9

    River Cruise

    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.

Calculate Your Trip’s Carbon Footprint

Your carbon offset will be used to plant trees in the boreal forest. Details

You'll Also Like

  • Ice rink
    10 Best Things to Do in Old Québec City
    Read
  • Fatbike dans le Vieux-Québec
    Bike Tours in Québec City
    Read
  • Strøm Spa Nordique - La rivière Strøm
    7 Ways to Embrace Self‑Care and Wellness Tourism in Québec City
    Read
  • Couple dans un spa
    Switching to Slow Travel Mode in Québec City
    Read
  • Vue de la porte Saint-Jean en hiver
    12 Historical Gems You Should Not Miss in Old Québec
    Read
  • Fortifications of Québec
    How to Spend a Sustainable Weekend in Québec City
    Read
  • A cyclist rides on a bike path in the Old Port of Québec with the Château Frontenac in the background.
    Québec City Bike Paths
    Read