Is it just me or doesn’t fall often comes slower travel, fewer tourists, and a taste in the air for cozier activities? In this article, I’ll share all my tips for travelling to Quebec City in October to ensure you have a wonderful stay, filled with light and warmth even on chillier days!
Why Travel to Quebec City in October?
Most tourists visit Quebec City during the summer or winter, primarily during the major festivals. However, if you’re looking for something different, a quieter trip where you can wander the walled city without the hassle of hordes of people, consider visiting in October, one of my favourite periods to do so.
Although the temperature is a bit cooler, simply bringing a warm jacket or hoodie will make sure you still enjoy what fall has to offer. Plus, the scenery with the coloured leaves is just amazing.
Additionally, prices may be less expensive in October than during the summertime; therefore, feel free to book one of the city’s boutique hotels.
5 Things to Put on Your List When Visiting Quebec City in October
There are so many things to do in the capital, but what should you do if you plan to visit in October? Here are 5 suggestions once you have taken the best pictures of the Château Frontenac (which you need to take a guided tour of!)
Go Hiking to Enjoy Fall Colours
Canada is renowned for its breathtaking fall scenery, and Quebec City is no exception. You’ll likely have the opportunity to experience the trees changing colours if you’re here in early October, but you’ll definitely have to head out of town to get the best views.
If you enjoy hiking, there are numerous options available. You can plan a hike at the Parc de la Jacques Cartier, climb the Mont Sainte-Anne or wander the Plains of Abraham, which are close to the old city. You don’t have to go far to enjoy the fall colours in Quebec City.
Ascend the Marie Guyart Building for the Best View of the City
Indeed, if you’re not a hiker, low on time or wish to stay close to downtown, let me give you a tip: if you want the best view of Quebec City, you need to ascend the Marie Guyart Building, also called Complexe G. It offers a panoramic sprawl where you can see the mountains, the Saint-Lawrence River, and of course, the famous castle.
At the top, the observatory, Observatoire de la Capitale. Besides the view, you have access to an exhibit on the city’s history. Please note that the price is currently $14.75 per adult in 2025.
What to Do in Centre-du-Québec region and How to Organize Your Trip
Curious about how to spend your day in Centre-du-Québec region? Here’s a list of the top activities to consider adding to your plans:
- Learn about the conservation and protection of Quebec’s biodiversity at this scientific museum in Bécancour
- Sleep comfortably at the Quality Inn & Suites in Victoriaville before exploring the rest of the town
- Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow at a maple grove in Saint-Wenceslas
- Enjoy amenities such as the pool and gym at the Grand Times Hotel in Drummondville before settling in for a comfortable night’s sleep.
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 Centre-du-Québec region through Montreal or Quebec City? 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.
Book a Ghost Tour in the Old City
If you are planning to visit Quebec City at the end of October, you will quickly realize the spooky atmosphere that can ensue for Halloween, the best time to book one of the city’s ghost tours. Walk through the walled city with a guide to learn about the sordid stories of this place.
There are 2 main ghost tours in Quebec City, and both have special activities for Halloween.
- First, the Ghost Tours of Quebec let you follow a costumed guide and their lantern across the cobblestone streets of the old town.
- Second, Les Promenades Fantômes let you walk and meet the ghosts of past local legends.
Visit the Morrin Centre
Whether it’s rainy outside or you want to learn more about the city’s story, let me propose that you visit the Morrin Centre. Located within the walled city, close to the famous St-Jean Street, the Morrin Centre was once a jail. It then became a library and is considered an English-language cultural centre.
Many events are organized throughout the year, and it is also possible to book a guided tour to learn more about this fascinating place.
Cheer for the Université Laval Rouge et Or Football Team
Finally, if you wish to visit Quebec City in October, I recommend attending one of the Université Laval football matches to cheer on. Indeed, this sports team, the Rouge et Or (Red and Gold), is quite popular in the province and is one of the top ones in Canada!
The stadium may be smaller than what you can find in the United States, but the experience is truly worth it. Arrive early to enjoy the tailgate party before the match!
What You Need to Know Before Going to Quebec City in October
Whether it’s your first time in the Old Capital or not, here are some tips to help you plan your trip efficiently. Your experience may vary depending on the time of year, so please prepare accordingly.
- Thanksgiving is also a national holiday in Canada, but it takes place in October, more precisely, the second Monday of the month.
- If you want to see beautiful fall colours, you need to visit Quebec City at the beginning of the month. It typically begins at the end of September and concludes in the first half of October.
- People in Quebec also celebrate Halloween on October 31st. Besides the decorated houses, there might be some special activities to attend. Take the time to learn more about them if you are in the area during this period.
If you’re looking for comfort food during your visit, consider exploring the best fondue places in Quebec City. Cozy, delicious and warming, this food totally fits in with Quebec City in October.
These articles might also interest you to plan your Canadian trip:
- Train Travel From Montreal to Quebec City
- 7 Best Italian Restaurants in Quebec City to Know About
- Best Photo Spots in Quebec City to See the Fall Colours
Do you want to learn more about the province? Take a look at our other pins!
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