Quebec Region Travel Guide

Get ready to explore the culturally rich, visually scenic Quebec Region with our extensive travel guide. Learn about the best things to do, must-see attractions, where to stay, and safety tips to follow.


Introduction to Quebec Region

Quebec Region is a culturally rich and visually scenic region located in Central Quebec, Canada. The region’s blend of French and North American heritage lends itself to a unique travel destination that attracts thousands of visitors every year. With a variety of activities, cultural sites, and natural beauty, Quebec Region has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and how to stay safe while exploring this beautiful area of Canada.

List of Places to Visit in Quebec Region

Quebec Region is home to many iconic landmarks, culturally important attractions, and natural wonders. Here are some places that every visitor should consider visiting:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec - one of Canada’s premier museums of fine arts featuring over 40,000 pieces, a sculpture garden, and temporary exhibitions.
  2. Musée de la civilisation - a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Quebec that features interactive exhibits, galleries, and collections showcasing the province’s unique identity.
  3. Old Quebec UNESCO World Heritage Site - a historical district with cobblestone streets, historic homes, and fortifications that make up the only fortified city north of Mexico.
  4. Quebec City’s Parliament Building - a grandiose, neoclassical-style seat of government that overlooks St. Louis Square in Quebec City.

Natural Attractions of Quebec Region: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Montmorency Falls - a breathtaking waterfall that’s 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls and can be viewed from an aerial tramway, bridge, or hiking trails.
  2. Jacques-Cartier National Park - a picturesque park with mountains, lakes, and rivers that provides ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and camping.
  3. Île d’Orléans - a pastoral island located in the St. Lawrence River with wineries, food producers, and quaint towns that provide a glimpse into rural Quebecois life.
  4. Charlevoix Region - a beautiful region located along the St. Lawrence River that encompasses both mountains and the sea, with lots of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and whale watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Quebec Region

Quebec Region is home to many scenic hiking and biking routes, both in natural parks and urban areas. Here are some of the best places to explore on foot or by bike:

  1. The Plains of Abraham - a historical park in Quebec City where French and British forces fought for control of North America, with plenty of paved walking and biking paths.
  2. Grands-Jardins National Park - a mountainous park in the Charlevoix region with over 100 km of hiking trails.
  3. Corridor de la Rivière Saint-Charles - a scenic biking trail that follows the Saint-Charles River from Quebec City to Shannon.
  4. Le P’tit Train du Nord - a 232 km cycling trail that follows a converted railway line through the Laurentian Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Quebec Region: Activities and Tours

There’s so much to see and do in Quebec Region, from kayaking to city tours. Here are some of our top picks:

  1. Discover Quebec City by walking tours - Explore the history and culture of the city accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, and discover hidden gems that you may have missed on your own.
  2. Whale Watching - Take a guided tour from the scenic village of Tadoussac and see belugas, Minke, humpback, and the magnificent blue whales.
  3. Food Tour - Quebec is known for its culinary delights, so why not join a food tour and taste your way through the city, with stops at local restaurants, bakeries, and chocolatiers.
  4. Ice Hotel - Visit the world-famous ice hotel and discover an alternative kind of lodging, with magnificent ice sculptures, a bar, and overnight stays.

Week-Long Itinerary for Quebec Region

With so many incredible attractions and experiences, you’ll need at least a week to explore the Quebec Region. Here’s an itinerary to get you started:

Day Activity
1 Explore Quebec City’s Old Town, including Château Frontenac and the Citadelle
2 Hike in Montmorency Falls Park and visit Île d’Orléans
3 Take a food tour in Quebec City’s market district
4 Visit Jacques-Cartier National Park and hike to the summits
5 Discover the Charlevoix region and its national parks
6 Explore the Saguenay Fjord and go whale watching
7 Relax and depart, or go skiing at the nearby mountain resorts in winter

Food and Drink Scene of Quebec Region

Quebec is a food lover’s paradise with a wealth of local dishes and drinks to taste. Here are some of the must-try dishes, and local beverages to savor:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Poutine - This classic Québécois dish is a delicious concoction of fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
  2. Tourtière - a hearty meat pie made with venison, pork, or beef.
  3. Maple Snow Taffy - A local favorite snack made of Maple syrup, poured on top of ice and then rolled onto sticks.
  4. Sugar pie - A rich custardy pie made of sugar that has been cooked in real maple syrup and sweetened condensed milk.

Local Beverages

  1. Ice Cider - A fermented alcoholic beverage made from frozen apples, and one of the more unique options when it comes to alcoholic beverages.
  2. Quebec Beer – Microbreweries across Quebec have sprung up, offering a wide range of beer styles and flavors.
  3. Caribou – a fortified wine-based drink that’s served hot, and is spiced with cloves and cinnamon.

Where to Stay in Quebec Region: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Quebec Region’s accommodation options offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, budget-friendly hostel, or cozy guesthouse. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  1. Fairmont Le Château Frontenac - This iconic landmark is located inside the walls of Old Quebec, and offers stunning views of the city from its castle-like turrets.
  2. Auberge Saint-Antoine - A luxurious boutique hotel with a rich history, located in the heart of Old Quebec.
  3. HI Montreal Hostel - A popular hostel located in the heart of downtown Montreal, with private and shared rooms available.
  4. Gite du Calme - a charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of nature in the Charlevoix region.

What to Buy in Quebec Region: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Quebec has a long tradition of producing high-quality handicrafts, food, and drink. Some of the best products to bring home as souvenirs include:

  1. Maple products - Quebec is the world’s biggest producer of maple syrup, but also produces other maple products such as butter, sugar, and candies.
  2. Quebec Clothing and Accessories - Cozy clothing such as hats, sweaters, and mittens made of wool, bison fiber, or alpaca, is a perfect souvenir to remember your trip to Quebec during the winter months.
  3. Art and Handicrafts - from small original paintings to larger woodworks, Quebec City is home to countless art galleries, antique stores, and boutiques where locals can sell their masterpieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Quebec Region

Quebec Region is an intriguing blend of North American and European cultures. Quebecois culture places a strong emphasis on family and community, and values the French language. Visitors should be aware of the following customs:

  • French is the primary language spoken in Quebec. While most Quebecois speak English as well, it’s uplifting to learn and speak a few basic French phrases when communicating with the locals.
  • Quebec has a number of festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular include the Quebec Winter Carnival, the Montreal Jazz Festival, and the Festival d’été de Québec.
  • Quebecois often greet each other with kisses on the cheek. However, this is less common among strangers or in more formal settings, like businesses or offices.

Best Time to Visit Quebec Region

Quebec Region is a four-season destination, with different experiences depending on the time of year. Here’s a summary:

  • Winter (December-February): with lots of outdoor activities, Christmas markets, and ice skating.
  • Spring (March-May): Travelers can experience the maple syrup harvest, and enjoy the first signs of the spring season.
  • Summer (June-August): high season with great outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and river cruises under sunny skies at comfortable temperatures.
  • Fall (September-November): The fall season is when the trees of Quebec Region come to life with vivid colors that seem to come straight out of postcards.

Do’s and Don’ts of Quebec Region

Do:

  • Do try the local food and drink and enjoy the culinary delights of Quebec Region.
  • Do learn a bit of French before you come to Quebec, but also be prepared to hear and see it everywhere.
  • Do take part in local festivals or cultural events.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be offended if someone speaks to you in French. It’s the language of Quebec.
  • Don’t try to hike or ski without proper equipment and preparation.
  • Don’t disregard the Quebecois culture and its traditions, as they form an essential part of the province’s identity.

Safety and Health

Safety in Quebec Region

Quebec Police have a great reputation for Harming its people, in general, is a safe and low-crime area. Still, it’s still important to take precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night, not leaving valuables visible in cars, and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Quebec Region

There are no major health risks of traveling to Quebec Region. The region has well-equipped medical facilities, and visitors can access medical treatment if required.

Getting to Quebec Region: Transportation Options and Logistics

Quebec Region is well connected by roads, air, and rail. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Quebec Region

  1. Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB)
  2. Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)

Bus Stations Near Quebec Region

  1. Montcalm Bus Terminal, Quebec City
  2. Bus Terminal, Montreal

Other Options

There are several train services to and from Quebec, such as VIA Rail and Amtrak.

How to Get Around in Quebec Region

The region offers several options for getting around:

  • Car rental: If you plan on driving, you can rent a car at one of the region’s airports or in the city centers.
  • Bus: Offers service to the region’s major cities and towns, with regular schedules between them.
  • Train: VIA Rail offers train service between Montreal and Quebec City.

Where to Go Next from Quebec Region: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some destinations you might want to explore after your Quebec Region adventure:

  1. Ottawa, Ontario - Canada’s capital city, is a two-hour drive from Montreal and offers rich history and cultural sites.
  2. Toronto, Ontario - Canada’s largest city, with museums, galleries, and the famous CN Tower.
  3. Niagara Falls - This iconic waterfall is just a five-hour drive from Montreal and boasts breathtaking views and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Quebec Region offers a unique mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring Quebec City’s charming streets, hiking in Jacques-Cartier National Park, enjoying ice cider at local vineyards, or simply taking in the region’s stunning scenery, the experiences you’ll have here will be truly unforgettable. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re ready to explore the best of Quebec Region. So, pack your bags, get your cameras ready, and discover the wonders of Quebec Region.

Montmorency Falls in the summer. Montmorency Falls in the summer.


    Beaupré
    Laurentides Wildlife Reserve
    Portneuf Wildlife Reserve
    Quebec City
    Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré
    Île d'Orléans