Quebec City in 3 Days: Budget-Friendly Fun!

Experience the charm of Europe without breaking the bank in Quebec City.

21 June 2023

Quebec City, Canada offers an abundance of charm, culture, and history for travelers on a limited budget. Cheap eats, free walking tours, and affordable accommodations make it an accessible destination for all. Visit iconic sights such as the Château Frontenac, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and immerse yourself in French-Canadian culture without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Old Quebec

  • Check into Hotel Le Voyageur, located in the heart of Old Quebec
  • Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Quartier Petit Champlain and admire the colorful buildings and eclectic shops
  • Visit the iconic Chateau Frontenac and snap some photos of its grandeur
  • Take a guided tour of the stunning Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral
  • Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Chic Shack, known for its gourmet burgers and poutine
Day 2

Exploring the Outskirts of Quebec City

  • Fuel up with breakfast at Cafe Pista, a cozy cafe with amazing coffee and pastries
  • Take a scenic drive to Montmorency Falls and witness the stunning 83-meter waterfall
  • Visit the peaceful and picturesque Île d'Orléans, known for its preservation of traditional Quebecois culture and cuisine
  • Embrace the natural surroundings by taking a hike through the Jacques-Cartier National Park
  • Indulge in some authentic Quebecois cuisine at Aux Anciens Canadiens, housed in a 17th-century building
Day 3

Art and Culture in Quebec City

  • Start the day off with breakfast at Le Billig, a charming creperie with a wide variety of sweet and savory options
  • Visit the fascinating Musee de la Civilisation and learn about Quebec's rich history and cultural heritage
  • Admire the stunning artwork and exhibitions at the Musee National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec, housed in a beautiful 19th-century building
  • Take in a show at the Le Capitole de Quebec, a fantastic venue for live performances and concerts
  • End the trip with a bang by indulging in a delectable dinner at L'Affaire Est Ketchup, a quirky restaurant with a unique menu and cozy atmosphere.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Quebec City by plane is to fly into Jean Lesage International Airport, which is located approximately 20 minutes from the heart of the city. Major airlines such as Air Canada and WestJet operate direct flights from various cities in Canada and the United States.

Car

Travellers can drive to Quebec City by taking the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 20) or the scenic Chemin du Roy (Highway 138) from Montreal, which takes approximately 2.5-3 hours depending on traffic. There are also car rental services available at Jean Lesage International Airport and in the downtown area.

Train

There are no direct train services to Quebec City, but travellers can take the VIA Rail train to Montreal and transfer to a bus from there. The train will depart from Montreal Central Station and arrive at Gare du Palais in Quebec City approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes later.

Boat

While there are no direct boat services to Quebec City, travellers can take a cruise ship to the Port of Quebec, which is located approximately 30 minutes from the downtown area. Major cruise lines such as Holland America and Norwegian Cruise Line offer packages that include stops at Quebec City as part of their itineraries.

Bus

The best way to get to Quebec City by bus is to take a service from major companies such as Greyhound, Orleans Express, and Megabus. These companies offer direct trips to Quebec City from various cities in Canada and the United States, and their buses make stops at the Gare du Palais, which is located in the heart of the city.

Destination

Quebec City

Nestled in the heart of maple syrup and poutine land, Quebec City is a charmingly bilingual city that will have you saying bonjour-hi in no time. With its stunning architecture and lively cultural scene, it's a place where you can indulge in history, food, and maybe a little bit of Canadian politeness.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Quebec City Escape: Family Fun on a Budget!

A family friendly trip to Quebec City, Canada offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the enchanting Old Town, with its charming cobblestone streets lined with shops and cafes, and visit iconic landmarks like the imposing Château Frontenac. Engage in fun-filled winter activities such as ice skating in Place d'Youville or take a summer stroll along the Plains of Abraham, making Quebec City an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation.

5 Days of Budget-friendly Fun in Quebec City

Visiting Quebec City on a budget may seem daunting but it is possible to have a great time without breaking the bank. Accommodations are cheaper in the off-season and there’s plenty of free or low-cost activities to explore, such as wandering through Old Quebec’s cobblestone streets and checking out the views at the Plains of Abraham. Additionally, street food and local markets offer affordable dining options, making it easier to explore the city’s rich culinary scene.

A 4-Day Romantic Getaway to Quebec City

A romantic trip to Quebec City, Canada would be full of charm and history as the city is known for its European-style architecture and cobblestone streets. Couples can stroll along the scenic Château Frontenac overlooking the St. Lawrence River, explore the quaint Petit-Champlain district and enjoy traditional French cuisine in the city's numerous restaurants. The city's Winter Carnival also offers a unique and festive atmosphere for couples to enjoy.

Discover Quebec City on a Shoestring Budget!

A trip to Quebec City on a limited budget can still be filled with history, cuisine, and scenery. Cheap accommodation such as hostels or Airbnbs can be found in the city, and tourists can enjoy walking through the historic Old Town for free. Local food markets, affordable restaurants, and cafes offer great cuisine to sate one's appetite when keeping costs in mind.