What to Do in Québec City in July

Québec City is a great place to stroll around, snap shots, and have some good eats. But it’s also full of history and secrets that come to life with a local guide. A guided tour will leave you seeing the city in a whole new light. If history isn’t your thing, a food tour should manage to do the trick.

Short on time? Hop on and off the fabulous Red Bus as you move from one Old Québec attraction to the next.

In July, Québec City pulses with the excitement of its iconic festivals and summer celebrations. Not to be missed:

• The Festival d'été's four main stages in the heart of downtown will once again welcome emerging, local and international artists, such as Gwen Stefani, Limp Bizkit, Muse, Jelly Roll, Kesha, Patrick Watson and many more. This year again, the shows taking place on the stage at Place D'Youville and on the stage at Place de l'Assemblée-Nationale do not require passes.
• On the Port of Québec waterfront, the Rendez-vous naval de Québec brings together a rare gathering of ships, offering a fresh perspective on the work and role of sailors around the world. For the 2026 edition, the Festival will host five to six large military tall ships, along with three modern vessels representing the Canadian Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy, and the Royal Canadian Navy.
• From the Grand Théâtre de Québec to partner venues and free events across every borough, the Festival d’opéra transforms the city into a stage. Whether you're a devoted opera lover or discovering the art form for the first time, this celebration offers a captivating journey through five centuries of music.

Taking a boat tour on the St. Lawrence River is a summer vacation classic.

To appreciate the panorama of Montmorency Falls and Old Québec, get aboard a Zodiac of Excursions Maritimes Quebec.

Fascinating worlds unfold before us, where imagination, history, art, and countless sensations come to life.

Deep in the forest, the immersive multimedia experience Onhwa’ Lumina transports visitors into a magical world where nature and technology blend seamlessly, all set against the rich cultural backdrop of the Wendat Nation.

At the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, discover Hyperrealism: This Is Not a Body, an immersive exhibition where illusion blurs with reality. Through some 40 sculptures that are remarkably lifelike, these pieces explore the evolution of the human figure in art since the 1970s. 

Meanwhile, at the Musée de la civilisation, experience the exhibition Pleasures, starting June 18. This multisensory journey explores the many sources of pleasure in both body and brain. 

The Saint-Roch Church presents the AURA experience by Moment Factory at dusk, a 45-minute light show that brings the architecture and history of this iconic neighborhood landmark to life.

Looking to take a little break from the city? Now’s the perfect time to discover the picturesque villages surrounding Québec City. Whether you're strolling past historic homes, tasting local delicacies, or simply soaking in the peaceful countryside, these getaways offer a refreshing change of pace. Check out 12 charming villages to visit in the region to inspire a summer escape that’s both accessible and delightfully off the beaten path.

If you want to stay cool this summer, there are plenty of options: waterslides, pools, and splashpads. With 30+ waterslides and attractions of all kinds, Village Vacances Valcartier is an aquatic paradise. For a day at the beach, try Baie de Beauport : it's only a few minutes from downtown!

The new Station de la Plage (Beach Station) is a must this summer. Its fine sandy beach, infinity swimming pool and mirror pool with water fountains will dazzle young and old alike.

The natural landscapes in the Québec City area are as rich and varied as the culture. It’s like a giant playground made by Mother Nature. The trails lead up dramatic cliffs with sweeping views of the St. Lawrence, through glacial valleys, and into the heart of the boreal forest. From Jacques-Cartier National Park to Sentier des caps de Charlevoix to Vallée Bras-du-Nord, here are the best spots for a short or long hike.

Want to enjoy nature without having to drive? Shuttles take you from downtown to beautiful parks like Jacques-Cartier National Park.