A Romantic Holiday Weekend

Petit-Champlain’s unique historic cachet makes it the ideal setting for a romantic stroll. The pedestrian-only streets are lined with charming shops and bistros and all decked out for the holidays, filling the air with magic and romance.

It’s also the perfect place to pick up holiday gifts, like carefully curated kitchen tools and accessories (including many local finds) from Pot en Ciel. Just down the street, you’ll find Boutique Métiers d’art du Québec and the Musée de la civilisation gift shop, which carry unique creations from a number of Québec artists and makers.

Carry along toward Place Royale for a latte break at Maison Smith, with coffee beans that are locally roasted locally on île d’Orléans. With the history, the ambiance, and the giant Christmas Tree in the middle of the square, you’ll feel like you’ve walked right into a postcard.

Slowly walk up Côte de la Montagne for more of the holiday spirit at the German Christmas Market. There are sparkling Christmas trees, magical lights, Christmas carols, and wooden stands where you’ll find unique gifts and sweet nothings, like German gingerbread. Before you go, be sure to stop by the Boutique de Noël and the original Simons store, both of which are right beside the market. 

Once the German Christmas Market is over, the activity on the sites continues with Kaléidoscopes where visual arts, theater, music, performing arts and literature are presented throughout the Holiday Season.

Old Québec isn’t just postcard pretty—it’s also home to lots of unique local boutiques. Pick up a piece by a local fashion designer at Caméléon, a fabulous wool sweater from Montréal-based Ça va de soi, or tasty treats at Les Trouvailles de Jules. You’re sure to find the perfect gift for someone on your list—or for yourself!

Just steps away from the ramparts and surrounding heritage buildings, you’ll find the skating rink at place D’Youville, all lit up for the holidays. Get on the ice and do a few twirls in the dimming light. After the activity, take a stroll to one of the lovely cafés within the walled city. The choice is yours:  Paillard, La Maison Smith, Baguette & Chocolat or Chez Temporel for a hot bevvy.

To make the most of your stay, go all out and spend the night in Old Québec. Discover—or rediscover—the city by night: its lights, the sparkling snow, late-night strolls, and a final drink in a cozy bistro. There are plenty of accommodation options available, and you’ll already be on site to kick off your second day of the weekend.

Follow a hearty breakfast with a trip to Strøm Spa for a morning spent relaxing in the baths overlooking the St. Lawrence River and a luxurious treatment or a massage. Their signature STRØM massage uses traditional techniques and massage stones to optimize well-being. If you’re feeling chilly, treat yourself to the benefits of a seaweed and herbal body wrap.

Make the moment last with a spa lunch that’s as healthy as it is tasty. And don’t leave empty-handed! Their Boréal skincare products are made in Québec and let you bring the spa experience back home with you. They also make great gifts for anyone in need of a little self-care.

In the afternoon, we leave Old Québec and pop over to the Grand Marché de Noël. This big, beautiful indoor and outdoor market has it all, including great food and unique and creative gift ideas. You’ll come home with your arms full and a song in your heart!

Take the time to chat with producers and artisans, and pause for a snack along the way. It’s a lovely way to embrace the art of slowing down together.

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Go for a ride down the wooden toboggan slide on Dufferin Terrace—with a stunning view of the majestic St. Lawrence River as a bonus. Snuggle up, and off you go, sliding at speeds of up to 70 km/h. Ready to go again?

And to end the stay on a high note, sit down for a romantic dinner at one of the many restaurants in the city. Big news: in addition to offering a wide variety for all tastes and budgets, Québec now boasts 28 establishments listed in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide. You’ll need more than one weekend to try them all!