One of the best things about visiting Quebec City is how easy it is to discover it by foot. Each neighbourhood has its own hidden treasures, and walking is the best way to get the most out of your visit. Here’s a guide to one of the most emblematic areas of town; follow this historical self-guided walking tour of Quebec City!
Start Your Self-Guided Walking Tour at Place Royale
Start your visit at Place Royale. Did you know that this is the site where Samuel de Champlain, founder of Quebec City, launched the construction of the city’s first home in 1608? The fort served as a store, trading post and residence. Today, the magnificent Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church, one of the oldest in the province, stands at the centre of this public square.
Head out to Petit-Champlain, Quebec City’s Charming Quarter
Continue your visit to Sous-le-Fort Street. This lane offers a magnificent view of the cliff leading to the Dufferin Terrace. You may also recognize the famous funicular, the only one of its kind in North America, which has linked Quebec City’s Lower and Upper Towns since 1879.
You’ll then come to rue Petit-Champlain Street, the heart of the district. With its many restaurants and boutiques, this place is full of charm. As you stroll along Petit-Champlain Street, take the time to admire the beautifully preserved historic architecture that gives the area its unique character.
This pedestrian-friendly street is one of the oldest commercial streets in North America and exudes a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely walk. Whether you’re shopping for local artisan crafts or simply soaking in the ambiance, Petit-Champlain Street is a must-see highlight of Quebec City.
Just off this street, you’ll find the famous Breakneck staircase (Escalier Casse-Cou). This staircase was originally a steep path dating back to the founding of Quebec City. The term breakneck is thought to have originated in the late 19th century, when tour guides referred to this old wooden staircase as a breakneck because of its dangerousness. Today, there’s no need to worry – the staircase is very well maintained!
Old Port of Quebec City
Passing through the staircase and the Côte-de-la-Montagne Street just next door, you’ll come to the oldest port in Canada: the Old Port of Quebec. Heart and soul of the city’s economic history, don’t miss it, with Saint-Paul, Sault-au-Matelot, Saint-Pierre and Saint-Antoine Streets. With its many antique stores, Saint-Paul Street is probably the most famous in the area.
As you wander through these charming lanes, take in the rich history that seems to linger in every corner. Saint-Pierre Street, once the heart of the city’s banking district, is now home to art galleries and fine dining establishments. Meanwhile, Sault-au-Matelot Street invites you to explore its cozy alleys filled with boutiques and cafes, perfect for a quiet retreat.
Important reminder of the city’s maritime past and the link that has bound it to the St. Lawrence River since its foundation, this area of Quebec City is steeped in history.
Don’t hesitate to stop at the Musée de la Civilisation and Quai des Canotiers to delve deeper into the city’s history and enjoy a magnificent view of the Upper Town. At the Old Port itself, enjoy the picturesque view of the marina. The area often hosts markets and events, making it a lively spot to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Finish your visit near one of the city’s heritage icons: the Gare du Palais. More than a century old, this train station is reminiscent of its impressive neighbour, less than 2 kilometres away, atop the Dufferin Terrace.
This self-guided walking tour of Quebec City is pleasant in all seasons, but if you’re lucky enough to be visiting during the summer or the Holiday season, you’ll undoubtedly fall even more under the European charm of this area of Old Quebec City.
Discover other tips and trips about Quebec City here:
- Top 6 Quebec City Landmarks
- 7 Best Winter Hikes in Quebec
- 5 Best Places to See the Stars in Quebec
- 5 Best Day Trips from Quebec City – Nearest to Farthest
- Free Walking Tour in Quebec City: A Must-Do in the Capital
- Best Location to Stay in Quebec City
- 6 Best Bike Tours in Quebec City
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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