If you’re looking for the perfect winter getaway from New York or New Jersey, then a long weekend in Québec City is the perfect place for you. With just under a two-hour direct flight, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the charming streets of this quaint winter wonderland. If you were looking for a charming European Christmas getaway, but couldn’t get enough time off of work, this is the next best thing. This itinerary includes many of the classic attractions the city has to offer, and also some hidden gems! Enjoy this action- packed itinerary for Québec City!
If you have happen to have some extra time to explore, make sure to check out my blog post about some of the best day trips to take from Québec City while you’re there!
Why Quebec City?
Québec City is one of the oldest European settlements in North America, founded in 1608. It is the capital of the province of Québec and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The walls that separate the city from the province of Québec are the only remaining fortified city walls in North America, north of Mexico. The walls are well-preserved, offering history buffs a unique glimpse into the city’s colonial past.
Other than it’s rich history, Quebec City has some things that you can’t see anywhere else in North America. Other than it’s fortified walls, the city boasts the only Holy Door that can be found outside of Europe. And not too far from the city center, you will find North America’s only ice hotel!
Ways to Get to Québec City from NYC
To get to Québec City, I flew from Newark International Airport (EWR) to Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB). United offers a direct flight, that arrives in just under 2 hours. If you take the earlier flight option, you’ll land around 11 am and have a half day to explore the city on the same day that your flight arrives. I think this is the best option to maximize your time.
If you’re able to take more than a long weekend, and you’re on a budget, Amtrak also also offers train service from NYC to Montreal. The trip takes about 13 hours and then you would transfer to the VIA train towards Québec City train station, which takes 3 hours. Definitely not conducive to a three-day itinerary, but if you have the time and want to save some money on a flight, this is also an option.
How to Get To Québec City from YQB Airport
There’s a few options for getting to Québec City from YQB airport.
- Taxi: This is probably the easiest, fastest, and most expensive way. There’s always plenty of drivers outside the airport who will offer you a ride. It’s a flat fare between YQB and the city center of $41.40 CAD (Canadian dollars) if you arrive during the day. (Night price is 47.60 CAD). So if you decide to take a taxi, make sure the taxi driver agrees to this price before accepting the ride! It takes about 20 minutes to get to the city center from the airport by car.
- Uber: If you’re like me, and need to use an app for everything, you can also get an Uber from the airport. The pickup location at YQB is at the domestic flight arrivals hall under the footbridge by Columns 13 – 14. However, there is no flat fare with Uber, so you could end up paying for than the $41.40 CAD.
- Bus: Route 76 and Route 80 both connect to the city center. There are departures every 30 minutes, every day. This is easily the least expensive option at $3.75 CAD per ride. You will need exact change for the bus.
Getting Around the City
Another reason that Québec City is one of the best places for a long weekend getaway is that it is very walkable. Many of the historic sites are located just a short walk from each other, so you will be able to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time. And it will still feel like a leisurely vacation.
Although Québec City is technically very walkable, it can be hard to navigate if you have mobility issues. Things are located close together, so it’s usually a short walk to get between places. But the cobblestone streets and steep hills can be difficult to navigate if you have foot or knee issues. The funicular that connects the upper and lower towns is wheelchair-accessible. But it will still be difficult to navigate the narrow, uneven streets.
Renting a car is definitely not worth it if you’re just spending a long weekend in the city, and plan to stay around the Old Québec area. But if you plan to stay longer, and do day trips or outdoor activities, or you have mobility issues, then renting a car is worth it.
There’s many accommodations, ranging from budget hostels to luxury, boutique hotel. No matter which you choose, I recommend staying in Old Québec City . Staying in the old town will give you easy access to all the top attractions, cafes, and best restaurants. I personally think this is the best choice for travelers who want a walkable, safe area to call home base.
Three Day Itinerary for Québec City
Québec City offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty for a 3-day adventure. This itinerary offers a blend of all these things. Plus it can be done solo, or with your friends! Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or just to wander the charming streets, this itinerary will guide you through all the can’t-miss spots.
Day One: A Busy Half Day
If you take the flight I mentioned above, you will arrive at the airport around 11 am. This leaves you with the whole afternoon to start exploring. Once you’re settled in, grab lunch at Le Cochon Dingue. It’s a cute Parisian bistro that serves hearty and comforting meals that will fill you up for your first afternoon in the city. If that doesn’t look good to you, choose from one of the many other restaurants on the same street, Rue Saint-Jean.
Morrin Centre
If you’re a fan of true crime, like me, then you’ll like what’s scheduled on this day. After lunch, walk about five minutes to Morrin Centre. Originally built over 200 years ago as a prison, it is now home to one of Québec’s most beautiful libraries. This unique place is not a typical stop on the average Quebec City itinerary. But the eerie vibe and fascinating stories of prisoners from centuries past, lets you step back in the city’s past in the most unique way. The building is not open for free visits. You have to book a guided tour, which costs $17 CAD per person. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The library closes at 4 pm.
Les Promenades Fantômes
After your guided tour of Morrin Centre, keep the spooky vibes going by visiting Les Promenades Fantômes. You’ll be led though Old Québec by night, while learning about the crimes and punishments that happened centuries ago. It costs 23 CAD, and tickets can be purchased here. This tour starts at 8 pm, so you’re guaranteed a very full first night! This tour is a unique way to learn about Québec’s true crime history. Some of the details of the punishments may be gruesome, but the guides do a great job at keeping the tour light and entertaining.
This tour is super convenient, since it leaves from in front of the Morrin Centre. It’s 90 minutes long, and finishes in front of Place Royale, a historic plaza that’s home to the famous Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church.. During the holidays, there’s a huge decorated tree in the middle of the plaza, which will be sure to put you in the holiday spirit.
Musée de la Civilisation
If true crime is not your thing, I still have you covered. After lunch consider visiting Musée de la Civilisation. It’s a 15-minute walk from the restaurant. This is the perfect spot to dive into Québec’s rich culture while also having fun. This isn’t your average museum—it’s interactive, thought-provoking, and full of creative exhibits that bring history and modern life together in fascinating ways. Plus, the building itself is stunning, with views of the St Lawrence River right outside. It’s closed on Mondays, and you can purchase tickets here.
Day Two: Explore Upper and Lower Town
Rue St-Louis
Start your day early on Rue St-Louis, one of Québec City’s oldest and most enchanting streets. As you stroll along this cobblestone avenue in the heart of Old Québec, you’ll pass many quaint cafes, historic buildings, and boutique shops in beautiful stone buildings. This street is a perfect place to wander, soak in Québec’s unique European ambiance, and experience the timeless beauty of the city. Plan to get there early, so you can get photos before the crowds start forming. You can also grab breakfast at one of the cafes before starting your day!
Fairmont le Château Frontenac
Rue Saint-Louis is a direct path to the next stop on your itinerary: the iconic Château Frontenac. One of the highlights of any trip to Old Québec is visiting Fairmont le Château Frontenac, which is thought to be the most photographed hotel in the world. This historic building sits majestically above the Saint Lawrence River, and is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. While you may not want to stay there (because it’s super expensive), you can still visit lobby and admire the gorgeous holiday decor. Inside, you can enjoy a warm drink, and the luxe interior makes it the perfect place for photos.
Dufferin Terrace
Once you’re done, step outside to the Dufferin Terrace for incredible views of the Saint Lawrence River and Old Québec. If you’re feeling fancy, pop into one of the Château’s upscale bars or restaurants for a drink with a view and sometimes live music. Or treat yourself to afternoon tea for a truly royal experience.
Toboggan ride
After finishing your drinks on the terrace, consider taking a toboggan ride for a quick dose of afternoon adrenaline. This thrilling, old-school winter ride is located on Dufferin Terrace and has been a local favorite since 1884. You’ll zoom down an icy track at speeds up to 70 km/h (about 43 mph!), with stunning views of the Old City before you.
Breakneck Stairs
To get down to Quebec’s Lower Town, you’ll either have to take funicular that connects the two levels. Or you can take the stairs. They’re actually called the “Breakneck Steps” because of how steep they are, but if you have no mobility issues, they’re actually very walkable. I recommend taking the stairs down, and then the funicular back up. It costs 5 CAD, and you need cash. No need to book in advance- just show up and pay there!
Place Royale
Walk 5 minutes from Dufferin Terrace to the Breakneck Steps (Escalier Casse-Cou) or the funicular. From there, walk down the steps to get to Place Royale. This is where French civilization started in North America, and where Samuel de Champlain founded the city. If you did the Les Promenades Fantômes tour yesterday, then you finished at Place Royale. But the vibe is much different during the day. When visiting during the holiday season, you can see all the decorations. It’s a great photo spot. From here, you can also visit the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church.
Quartier Petit Champlain
A little past Place Royale is Quartier Petit Champlain. It’s a magical neighborhood that feels like stepping into a charming European village. As one of the oldest commercial districts in North America, it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs. The neighborhood is especially picturesque in winter, with twinkling lights and festive decor, making it the perfect place to experience the heart and heritage of Québec City. Make sure to check out the vibrant murals depicting Québec’s past.
And just like that, you’ve finished Day 2!
Day Three: Visit Hôtel de Glace
In my opinion, a trip to Québec City in the winter is incomplete without a day trip to Hôtel de Glace. Located about 20 minutes from downtown Québec, it is the only ice hotel located in North America. This breathtaking hotel is made entirely of ice and snow and rebuilt every winter with a unique design theme, making it a one-of-a-kind experience. The way you see it this year, is not the way it will be seen in years to come, which I think is really special.
From intricate ice carvings to grand ice sculptures, every room and hallway at the Hôtel de Glace is a work of art. The architecture itself is astounding, with ice furniture, crystal-clear ice walls, and gorgeous snow arches. Even if you’re just visiting for the day, you’ll have the chance to explore guest rooms, see the ice chapel, and wander through the ice bar where you can sip a cocktail in an ice glass.
Other Things To Do In The Area
Beyond just admiring the structure, the hotel near Hôtel de Glace also offers many fun winter activities that make it worth the trip. You can slide down the ice slide as many times as your inner child desires. Or take part in a guided tour where you’ll learn all about the complex building process, how the ice is harvested, and the creative planning that goes into constructing a hotel that melts and is rebuilt each year!
To make a full day trip of this experience, consider visiting the Winter Playground which is right next door. It’s the largest winter playground in North America, and hosts many fun activities that you can do during the day. They have multiples snow slides, skating, and even an indoor waterpark. If your inner child needs a break, there’s also a spa next door, where you can warm up after experiencing the Ice Hotel. This makes full third day, which hopefully satisfied your desire for a holiday getaway!
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As you can see, Québec City and its surroundings are packed with unique adventures, from ice hotels to historic cobblestone streets and stunning views that will stay with you long after you leave! If you wanted to take a holiday trip, but are afraid you won’t have enough time to enjoy it, then Québec City is the perfect place for you. I hope this blog post inspired you to book that trip! Make sure to check out my blog post about some of the best day trips to take from Québec City while you’re there!