Quebec City, with its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vibrant French-Canadian culture, is a destination that captures the hearts of travellers from around the world. And so it captures mine! But how can you uncover the stories and secrets hidden behind the stone walls and grand facades without breaking the bank? The answer lies in a unique experience that has become a must-do for visitors: a free walking tour in Quebec City led by the passionate and knowledgeable Samuel Dubois.
But First, What is a Free Tour?
It’s a tour that is literally free. Yup. It costs zero dollars to join, you can literally leave at any point if the tour is boring, and you don’t have to pay a set amount.
The whole point is for you to stay until the end, though, and of course, for you to enjoy it! That’s why during a free tour, often referred to as a “pay-what-you-want” tour, participants are encouraged to tip the guide based on their experience and what they feel the tour was worth.
I’ve been on free tours all around the world and LOVE THEM. So what’s the fair price to tip? I’d say I generally leave between 10 and 25$ per free tour, but I adapt this amount to the country I’m in. In Quebec City, however, I’d stay in this upper range and beyond, comparing it to others tour prices.
Who is Samuel Dubois, the Free Tour Guide of Quebec City?
To truly appreciate the experience of the free walking tour in Quebec City, it’s important to know the man behind it: Samuel Dubois. A lifelong resident of Quebec City, Samuel’s passion for his hometown is as evident as the historic landmarks he shares with visitors.
Samuel isn’t just a guide; he’s a storyteller and quite the joker. He had us chuckling half the time! His tours are enriched with personal anecdotes, but not the “too-much-kind”, and fascinating historical facts.
The good thing is he doesn’t ramble on and on with dates. His love for Quebec City shines through in every story he tells, creating a warm and engaging atmosphere that draws you in and makes you feel like a part of the city’s history without scrambling your brain with a ton of dates you can’t follow along with.
What Makes This Tour Unique?
When it comes to exploring Quebec City, there are plenty of ways to take in the sights. But what sets Samuel Dubois’ Quebec City walking tour apart from the rest is its unique blend of accessibility, personalization, and genuine passion.
- The “free concept” definitely brings the costs down if you compare it to other tours.
- The itinerary is great. You start off in front of in a really important political spot at the Parlement de Québec and then walk all the way to Petit-Champlain in lower town without catching a sweat going up a hill. That’s rare in the hilly old town.
- No two groups are alike, and Samuel knows that. Samuel is flexible and knowledgeable enough to adjust the tour accordingly.
- Samuel Dubois’ free walking tour of Quebec City covers most of the city’s iconic landmarks while also revealing hidden details that many visitors overlook, even frequent visitors like me.
Practical Information to Prepare for Your Quebec City Free Walking Tour
- The tour typically lasts about two hours, which is perfect to see a lot of stuff without feeling rushed.
- You can expect a friendly, interactive atmosphere where questions are welcomed.
- Visit A Free Tour of Quebec website for the schedule and booking. You’ll then receive all the info with the meeting point.
- Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be exploring the city on foot.
- Bring weather-appropriate gear—like a hat, sunscreen, or an umbrella. Don’t forget a bottle of water to stay hydrated, and of course, a camera to capture the picturesque sights.
I had heard so many great things about Sam’s free tour, but now that I’ve experienced it I can only agree with all the rave reviews. It’s your turn to lace up your tour shoes, join the group, and get ready to see Quebec City through the eyes of a passionate local.
Here are some other articles to prepare your trip to Quebec City:
- 5 Best Day Trips from Quebec City – Nearest to Farthest
- Best Location to Stay in Quebec City
- Where to Eat the Best Poutine in Quebec City?
- 6 Best Bike Tours in Quebec City
- Is Quebec Expensive?
- Quebec City 3-day Itinerary for Summer
- Quebec City 4-Day Itinerary Full of Ideas
- Best Quebec City Hiking According to Season
What to Do in Quebec City region and How to Organize Your Trip
Curious about how to spend your day in the Quebec City region? Here’s a list of the top activities to consider adding to your plans:
- Admire Quebec City’s largest waterfall and take a cable car to the top of the Montmorency Falls.
- Experience a unique walking adventure in the heart of Old Quebec and learn about its history.
- Discover the food, beverages, and vineyards of Île d’Orléans.
- Explore the wilderness near Quebec City with a hike in the Jacques-Cartier National Park.
- Introduce yourself to speed skating in Quebec City with top athletes on an inside ice ring.
- Ziplining above the Sainte-Anne canyon near Quebec City.
- Sleep comfortably at the Fairmont Château Frontenac and enjoy an incredible view of the St. Lawrence River.
- Enjoy a peaceful room at the Hilton Quebec and take a dip in the only year-round heated outdoor pool in Quebec City.
Preparing For Your Trip
When I look for things to do in my destination, I always have a look at Viator, GetYourGuide, Manawa, Civitatis and sometimes even Expedia.
It’s first off a great way to find out what there is to do, but always a quick and easy method to book cheaply and efficiently with these renowned platforms.
Need a place to sleep? I find most of my accommodations on Booking.com but I also use Hotels.com for their rewards program (11th free night) as well as Expedia. When booking smaller places in Quebec, you might not find them here and need to contact them directly.
Looking for a cheap flight to the Outaouais through Montreal? Have a look on Cheapoair or Skyscanner I use regularly.
Once you’re there, rent a car to roam free with DiscoverCars, AutoEurope or RentalCars or hop on a bus around Gatineau, Montreal, Quebec, and surrounding cities with Busbud.
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