Quebec City, Canada is a wonderland in winter—with ice-themed outdoor activities, steaming spas and meals for warming up, and charming snow-covered cobblestone streets.


Guest: Pascale Boivin
Account Executive, Media Relations and Business Development—USA and Luxury Travel
Destination Québec Cité, Canada
 
Must-Do's: Top 10 Must-See Attractions | Visit Québec City

1.      Old Québec (Vieux-Québec) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and European charm. Stroll North America's oldest streets, Walk along the fortified walls surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the view from every angle. For all its 400 years of incredible history, it’s still very much alive: magical in the winter and popping in the summer. Full of charming little streets and local shops, Old Québec is best visited on foot and we highly recommend a walking tour to learn about its fascinating history.
2.      Château Frontenac – The world’s most photographed hotel and a symbol of the city.Québec City’s most famous landmark is also the most photographed hotel in the world. Whether you’re just stopping by for a tour of the Château or staying for the night, it’s well worth a visit! 
3.      Dufferin Terrace – Scenic boardwalk with views of the St. Lawrence River and street performerNamed in honor of Lord Dufferin, a Governor General of Canada who had a great affection for Québec City, the terrace is so popular that it has been expanded twice since its original construction. While you’re there, hit up another historic site: the remains of the Saint‑Louis Forts and Châteaux, which lie beneath this iconic promenade. 
4.      Petit-Champlain District – One of North America’s oldest commercial streets, full of boutiques and bistros. With its many local shops and enchanting ambiance, this charming pedestrian street is sure to win you over. Known for its concentration of art galleries and fine bistros, Petit‑Champlain is a bona fide memory maker. 
5.      Place Royale – Place Royale, this historical gem, is where Québec City was officially founded. The unique period architecture testifies to the combined French and British influences so characteristic of the city’s built environment.
6.      Plains of Abraham – Historic battlefield turned urban park with museums and events.On September 13, 1759, the giant urban park known as the Plains of Abraham was the site of the famous Battle of Québec, the confrontation that decided Canada’s fate when the French lost the city to the British. 
7.      Citadelle of Québec – At the top of the famous Cap Diamant lies the biggest British fortress in North America. Built by the British between 1820 and 1850 to defend the city, the Citadelle is a remarkable military heritage site and home to the Musée Royal 22e Regiment, where you can learn all about the history of the regiment and the fortress.   
8.      Musée de la civilisation – A top museum showcasing Québec’s history and culture.Join in hands-on workshops for the whole family on a wide range of current, historical, and sometimes unusual subjects. Musée de la civilisation sheds new light on diverse societies and moments in history through a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits with an international or Québec focus.   
9.      Île d’Orléans – A charming island with heritage villages, local produce, and scenic views.Stop in at the many artisan outlets and farm stands around the island for a delicious sampling of local products and the tastiest shopping you’ve done in years! Driving around Île d'Orléans is like a trip back in time to 18th century rural Québec, complete with centuries-old villages, farms, churches, and heritage homes. As the birthplace of French North America, it’s ground zero for many of our ancestors—families that arrived from France and went on to make their homes throughout the continent. The island is also home to 4 of Québec’s prettiest villages. 
10.   Montmorency Falls - See a waterfall that’s 30 metres higher than Niagara FallsWhether you’re riding the gondola, climbing the scenic stairway or crossing the suspension bridge, the views of the Montmorency Falls are simply breathtaking. Experience the power of nature, only 15 minutes from downtown.  

What's New for Winter 2025-2026 | Visit Québec City

1)    A Sensory Journey into the Heart of Saint-Roch Church. Starting December 5, the interior of Saint-Roch Church will come alive with AURA, the immersive creation by Moment Factory that has already captivated audiences in Montreal and Paris. Over the course of 45 minutes, the iconic space will be transformed into a grand spectacle, where breathtaking projections, enveloping light displays, and orchestral music immerse visitors in a stunning visual and sound odyssey. 

2)    The Only Ice Restaurant in North America. The Ice Hotel has partnered with Fairmont Le Château Frontenac to operate the only restaurant in North America made entirely of snow and ice. Guests are invited to savor a three-course gourmet meal in a unique yet refined setting. A package including transportation from Old Québec is also available. 

3)    An Icy Nightclub in the Heart of Old Québec. Set in a glowing, frosty atmosphere, DJs and performers will light up the very first "Discoglace" —a festive, refrigerated skating rink open all winter long starting December 19. This unique and free experience awaits at the Port of Québec Agora.  

Great for returning visitors:

1.      Titanic: The Human Story (June 2025–March 2026) – A major exhibition exploring the human side of the Titanic tragedy.
2.      Toboggan – New Year's Nights in Québec City. Location: Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale, Québec City
3. .     Québec Winter Carnival (Feb 6–15, 2026) – Ice sculptures, parades, and Bonhomme Carnaval!
4.      Festival d’été de Québec (July 9–19, 2026) – One of Canada’s biggest music festivals.
5.      New France Festival (Aug 6–9, 2026) – A historical celebration with costumes, food, and performances.

More information: Visit quebec-cite.com. Social media at @quebeccite on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for inspiration and updates.

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