The Ultimate 4-Day Adventure in Quebec City

Discover the charm of Quebec City without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Explore the historic charms of North America's only walled city with a trip to Quebec City without breaking your bank. Take advantage of free walking tours, exploring landmarks like La Citadelle de Quebec and Chateau Frontenac without costly entrance fees. Savor the local culture and cuisine with dining options like creperies and bakeries that won't break your budget.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arriving in Quebec City

  • Check in at the cozy City Hostel, an affordable option situated near the trendy St. Roch district.
  • Take a stroll through Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the beautiful architecture, charming streets, and impressive fortifications.
  • Climb up to the iconic Château Frontenac and enjoy the stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
  • Satisfy your hunger at Le Chic Shack, a rustic chic spot where you can taste some of the best poutine and burgers in town.
  • Experience the magic of Quebec City at nightfall with an enchanting ghost tour, revealing the city's dark and mysterious past.
Day 2

History, Culture, and Good Food

  • Start your day at the Musée de la Civilisation, a fascinating museum showcasing the history and diversity of Quebec's heritage.
  • Wander through the quaint neighborhood of Petit-Champlain, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and savor delicious treats at local bakeries and cafés.
  • Step back in time at the Plains of Abraham, site of the historic battle between the French and British in 1759, and now a vast park perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.
  • Pamper your taste buds with authentic French cuisine at Le Pain Béni, a charming restaurant tucked in an old stone house, and which offers a mouth-watering brunch menu on weekends.
  • Immerse yourself in Quebec's rich arts scene at the Grand Théâtre, hosting a variety of shows, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.
Day 3

Nature and Adventure

  • Escape the city bustle and head to the stunning Montmorency Falls, a towering waterfall surrounded by scenic cliffs and forest trails.
  • Test your courage with a thrilling zipline ride over the falls, offering a bird's eye view of the majestic surroundings.
  • Enjoy a picnic or barbecue at the nearby Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, a picturesque park featuring playgrounds, bike paths, and a suspension bridge.
  • Take a scenic drive along the Chemin du Roy, a historic road following the St. Lawrence River and dotted with charming villages, farms, and artisanal shops.
  • Wind down the day with a relaxing dinner at L'Orygine, a hip restaurant showcasing Quebec's finest seasonal ingredients and creative flavors.
Day 4

Exploring Beyond Quebec City

  • Embark on a day trip to the Île d'Orléans, a scenic island in the St. Lawrence River known for its idyllic landscapes, charming villages, and rich agritourism.
  • Rent a bike or a car and explore the island's heritage sites, quaint shops, and local farms producing fresh apples, berries, cheese, wine, and maple products.
  • Indulge in a gourmet lunch at the Auberge La Goéliche, a cozy inn serving up delicious seafood and classic Quebec delicacies.
  • Visit the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica, a magnificent shrine dedicated to Saint Anne, and an important pilgrimage site for Catholics and tourists alike.
  • Wrap up your trip with a scenic drive back to Quebec City, admiring the stunning views of the river, the mountains, and the vibrant fall foliage if you're traveling during autumn.

Length of stay

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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

Quest for Quebec: An Unforgettable 5-Day Family Adventure

A family-friendly trip to Quebec City offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and majestic landmarks like the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Engage in fun and educational experiences, such as visiting the interactive Museum of Civilization or taking a scenic boat ride on the St. Lawrence River to spot whales and seals.

Quebec City: 4 Days of Family-Friendly Fun!

A family-friendly trip to Quebec City, Canada offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and outdoor adventures. Explore the picturesque Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, wandering through cobblestone streets and visiting charming shops and cafes. Take your kids to see Montmorency Falls, go dog sledding, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Plains of Abraham for a memorable family getaway in this vibrant city.

Discover Quebec City's charm on a budget

Visiting Quebec City, Canada on a tight budget can be a fabulous experience. Focusing on free walking tours and public transportation can make the most of your trip. Attractions like the Old Quebec and the Plains of Abraham provide picturesque scenery and let you experience Quebec's history for free.

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.