Quebec City is a gem that packs a punch with its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine. If you find yourself with three days to spare, you’re in for a treat. This itinerary will guide you through a perfect blend of culture, food, and outdoor adventures. Buckle up, because your Quebec getaway is about to get interesting.
Day 1: Explore Old Quebec
Your first day starts with diving deep into Old Quebec, the heart and soul of the city. You’ll want to rise early to maximize your time. Grab a coffee at Café La Maison Smith (they have great pastries too) and prepare for a day filled with sights that will make your Instagram followers green with envy.
- 8:30 AM: Begin your day at Château Frontenac. Snap a photo or two and marvel at the majestic castle-like hotel. Just don’t forget to look up, or you might trip over your own feet.
- 10:00 AM: Stroll along Terrasse Dufferin, where you can enjoy stunning views of the St. Lawrence River while pretending to be the main character in a romantic movie. Watch out for the seagulls; they have a knack for stealing food.
- 11:00 AM: Head to Place Royale and visit the beautiful Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church. Don’t forget to check out the surrounding shops for some unique souvenirs.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at Le Lapin Sauté. Try the rabbit — it’s a local favorite, and you’ll feel like a true Quebecois.
- 2:00 PM: Visit the Citadel. Explore the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city. You might even catch a ceremonial changing of the guard.
- 4:00 PM: Wander through the quaint streets of Petit Champlain. This area is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and photo ops — the cobblestone streets are straight out of a postcard.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Restaurant Le Continental. Their flambé dishes are a show in themselves. Be sure to check the menu for something adventurous.
- 8:00 PM: End your day with a ghost tour. Quebec City has a spooky side that’s worth exploring. You might just find yourself more scared of the prices than the ghosts.
Day 2: Foodie adventure
After all that walking, it’s time to fill your belly. Quebec City is known for its food scene, and today is all about tasting your way through the city. Get ready for a culinary journey that will have your taste buds dancing.
- 9:00 AM: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Le Billig. Their crêpes are legendary, and you’ll need the energy for all the eating ahead.
- 10:30 AM: Join a food tour! Look for options like Quebec City Food Tours, which will take you to some of the best spots for local delicacies, including cheese, charcuterie, and poutine. You’ll learn a thing or two about the city’s culinary history.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch stops on the tour will vary, but expect to try local specialties like tourtière and maple treats. You might even find yourself in a food coma.
- 3:30 PM: After the tour, take a break at Parc de la Chute-Montmorency. It’s a short drive from the city center (about 15 minutes) and offers stunning views of the falls. Don’t forget your camera — it’s Instagram heaven!
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Chez Muffy. Located in a historic warehouse, this restaurant focuses on farm-to-table dining, so you can feel good about your meal while indulging.
- 8:00 PM: Grab a nightcap at Le Projet, a local craft brewery. Their beer selection is impressive, and you’ll feel like a true local sipping on something handmade.
Day 3: Nature and adventure
Your final day is all about embracing the great outdoors. With Montmorency Falls just a stone’s throw away, you’re in for a day filled with natural beauty and adventure.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast at your hotel or grab a quick bite at Paillard. Their baked goods are to die for, especially the almond croissant.
- 10:00 AM: Head to Montmorency Falls. It’s a short drive (15-20 minutes) from downtown. Explore the park and take the cable car for breathtaking views of the falls. Feeling adventurous? Walk across the suspension bridge for some thrill.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at the café on-site. Grab a sandwich or a salad and enjoy the view of the falls. It’s like having your cake and eating it too.
- 2:00 PM: Spend your afternoon hiking in the nearby Île d’Orléans. The island is a treasure trove of wineries and farms. Take a leisurely drive and stop at local spots for some wine or fresh produce.
- 5:00 PM: Return to Quebec City and take some time to relax. Maybe grab a coffee at Café de l’Opéra and reflect on your trip so far.
- 7:00 PM: For your final dinner, treat yourself at Le Saint-Amour. It’s a bit fancy, but you deserve it after all that walking and eating.
- 9:00 PM: Finish your trip with a leisurely walk along the St. Lawrence River. The city lights reflecting on the water will leave you with memories to cherish.
Three days in Quebec City will leave you with a heart full of memories and a stomach full of delicious food. You might even find yourself planning your next trip before you’ve even left. So grab your bags and your sense of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable escape!
