2 Days in Quebec City With Kids

With its picturesque cobblestone streets, charming neighborhoods, and family-friendly attractions such as the Aquarium du Québec, Musée de la Civilisation, and Montmorency Falls, Quebec City is an ideal family destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures for all ages to enjoy. Here’s why you should spend at least 2 days in Quebec City on your Canada family holiday:

• Quebec City’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is full of charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and museums, making it a perfect place for families to explore and learn about history and culture.
• Quebec City has many family-friendly attractions, such as the Aquarium du Québec, Musée de la Civilisation, and the Plains of Abraham, which offer a wide range of educational and interactive experiences for kids of all ages.
• The city also has a variety of outdoor activities, including the Montmorency Falls and the Île d’Orléans, which are great for hiking, cycling, and picnicking.
• Quebec City is also known for its festivals and events, such as the Winter Carnival and the New France Festival, which offer unique cultural experiences for families to enjoy together.
• The city has a wide range of family-friendly accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, that cater to families’ needs and provide comfortable and convenient options for all budgets.

2 Days in Quebec City Itinerary With Family

Here is a suggested itinerary for 2 days in Quebec City with family:

Day 1:

1. Start the day with breakfast at Buffet de l’Antiquaire, known for its hearty breakfasts.
2. Walk around the fortified walls of Old Quebec and visit the famous landmarks, including the Chateau Frontenac, the Citadelle, and the Plains of Abraham.
3. Take a funicular ride down to the Lower Town and explore the narrow streets and historic buildings.
4. Have lunch at Le Chic Shack, a family-friendly restaurant famous for its burgers and fries.
5. Visit the Place Royale and the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church.
6. Head to the Aquarium du Québec to see the wide variety of marine life.
7. End the day with dinner at Le Cochon Dingue.

Day 2:

1. Start the day with breakfast at Chez Temporel, a cozy cafe famous for its homemade bagels.
2. Visit the Musee de la Civilisation to learn about Quebec’s history and culture.
3. Take a scenic drive to Montmorency Falls and ride the cable car to the top for a panoramic view of the area.
4. Have lunch at Pizzeria d’Youville, a popular pizzeria known for its wood-fired pizzas.
5. Spend the afternoon at the Valcartier Vacation Village, where kids can enjoy water park rides and play areas.
6. End the day with dinner at L’Oncle Antoine, a historic pub known for its poutine and sandwiches.

Quebec City 3-Day Itinerary With Kids

Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary for Quebec City:

Day 1:

1. Start the day with breakfast at Le Paillard, a popular bakery and cafe.
2. Visit the iconic Chateau Frontenac and explore the historic district of Old Quebec, including the Citadelle and the Parliament Building.
3. Have lunch at Le Chic Shack, a family-friendly restaurant known for its burgers and poutine.
4. Visit the Musee National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec, which features a collection of Quebec art.
5. End the day with dinner at Le Saint-Amour, a fine-dining restaurant specializing in French cuisine.

Day 2:

1. Start the day with breakfast at Chez Temporel, a cozy cafe famous for its homemade bagels.
2. Take a guided tour of Quebec City’s historic sites, such as the Quebec City Fortifications and the Notre Dame Basilica.
3. Have lunch at Le Continental, a restaurant that specializes in French cuisine.
4. Visit the Plains of Abraham, a historic park and the site of a major battle in Canadian history.
5. Take a stroll around the picturesque Old Port of Quebec.
6. End the day with dinner at Le Lapin Sauté, a restaurant that specializes in traditional Quebecois cuisine.

Day 3:

1. Start the day with breakfast at Buffet de l’Antiquaire, known for its hearty breakfasts.
2. Visit the Aquarium du Québec to see the wide variety of marine life.
3. Take a scenic drive to Montmorency Falls and ride the cable car to the top for a panoramic view of the area.
4. Have lunch at Pizzeria d’Youville, a popular pizzeria known for its wood-fired pizzas.
5. Spend the afternoon at the Valcartier Vacation Village, where kids can enjoy water park rides and play areas.
6. End the day with dinner at La Buche, a restaurant that specializes in traditional Quebecois cuisine.

Things to Do in Quebec City With Kids

There are plenty of things to do even if you can only spend 2 days in Quebec City with kids:

1. Visit the Aquarium du Québec: This large aquarium offers a variety of marine life exhibits, including polar bears, walruses, and seals.
2. Explore the Musée de la Civilisation: This museum offers interactive exhibits and activities that allow kids to learn about the history and culture of Quebec City and its people.
3. Walk around Old Quebec: Old Quebec’s charming streets and historic buildings are great places for kids to explore and learn about the city’s past.
4. Ride the Funiculaire: This unique cable car takes you up and down the steep hill from Upper Town to Lower Town and offers fantastic views of the city and the St. Lawrence River.
5. Visit the Plains of Abraham: This large park offers plenty of green space for kids to run around and play, as well as historical exhibits and walking trails.
6. See the Montmorency Falls: These stunning waterfalls are taller than Niagara Falls and offer a variety of activities, including a suspension bridge, zipline, and cable car.
7. Visit Île d’Orléans: This charming island just outside of Quebec City offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including cycling, strawberry picking, and exploring the quaint towns and villages.
8. Attend a Festival: Quebec City is known for its festivals, including the Winter Carnival and the New France Festival, which offer plenty of fun activities, parades, and events for the whole family to enjoy.

Where to Go in Quebec City With Kids

Here are some specific places to go for your 2 days in Quebec City with kids:

1. La Citadelle de Québec: This historic fort is located in the heart of the city and offers guided tours and interactive exhibits that teach kids about the history of Quebec City and the Canadian military.
2. The Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec: This art museum has a variety of exhibits that are great for kids, including interactive installations and family workshops.
3. The Quebec City Aquarium: This large aquarium is home to over 10,000 marine animals, including polar bears, walruses, and various fish and invertebrates.
4. The Observatoire de la Capitale: This observation deck on the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building offers stunning views of the city and a unique way to see Quebec City from above.
5. The Plains of Abraham: This large park in the heart of the city offers plenty of green space for kids to run around and play, as well as historical exhibits and walking trails.
6. The Old Quebec Funicular: This unique cable car takes you up and down the steep hill from Upper Town to Lower Town and offers fantastic views of the city and the St. Lawrence River.
7. The Montmorency Falls: These stunning waterfalls are taller than Niagara Falls and offer a variety of activities, including a suspension bridge, zipline, and cable car.
8. The Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine: This historic church is a popular pilgrimage site with various exhibits and activities that are great for kids, including a petting zoo and a mini-farm.

Where to Stay in Quebec City With Kids

Here are some suggestions for where to stay in Quebec City with kids:

1. Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: This iconic hotel is located in the heart of Old Quebec and offers luxurious accommodations and family-friendly amenities such as a pool, a game room, and a kids’ club.
2. Hotel Manoir Victoria: This centrally located hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms and suites, as well as a pool and a fitness center.
3. Hôtel Le Germain Québec: This stylish hotel offers modern and spacious rooms and suites and family-friendly amenities such as a complimentary breakfast and a play area.
4. Auberge Saint-Antoine: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Old Quebec and offers cozy and comfortable rooms and suites, as well as family-friendly amenities such as a pool, a fitness center, and a kids’ club.
5. Hotel Chateau Laurier Québec: This elegant hotel is located near the Plains of Abraham and offers comfortable and spacious rooms and suites, as well as a pool and a fitness center.
6. Hotel Clarendon: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Old Quebec and offers comfortable and spacious rooms and suites, as well as family-friendly amenities such as a restaurant and a lounge.
7. Hotel Palace Royal: This modern hotel is located in the heart of Old Quebec and offers spacious and comfortable rooms and suites, as well as family-friendly amenities such as a pool and a fitness center.

Where to Eat in Quebec City With Kids

Here are some suggestions for where to eat during your 2 days in Quebec City itinerary:

1. Le Cochon Dingue: This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of French and Quebecois dishes, including crepes, poutine, and burgers.
2. Le Chic Shack: This casual restaurant is known for its delicious burgers, fries, and milkshakes, as well as its family-friendly atmosphere.
3. Buffet de l’Antiquaire: This family-owned restaurant is famous for its hearty and delicious breakfasts, including homemade pancakes, omelets, and bacon.
4. L’Oncle Antoine: This historic pub is located in the heart of Old Quebec and offers a variety of comfort food dishes, including poutine, burgers, and sandwiches.
5. Pizzeria d’Youville: This popular pizzeria is known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas, as well as its family-friendly atmosphere and friendly service.
6. La Piazzetta: This casual Italian restaurant offers a variety of pizzas, pastas, and salads, as well as a kids’ menu and a friendly atmosphere.
7. Ashton: This fast-food chain is famous for its delicious poutine, hot dogs, and burgers and is a great option for a quick and tasty meal on the go.

What to Wear in Quebec City

What to wear during your 2 days in Quebec City can depend on the time of year you are visiting. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Winter (December-February): Quebec City gets very cold in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. You will need warm, waterproof clothing, including a heavy coat, boots, gloves, and a hat. A scarf and warm layers are also recommended.
2. Spring (March-May): Spring in Quebec City can be unpredictable, with both cold and mild temperatures possible. You should bring layers, including a light jacket or sweater, as well as a waterproof coat and boots in case of rain.
3. Summer (June-August): Summer in Quebec City is usually mild to warm, with temperatures ranging from the low 60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. You should bring light, comfortable clothing, including shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. A light jacket or sweater may be necessary for cooler evenings.
4. Fall (September-November): Fall in Quebec City is often cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the low 60s Fahrenheit. You should bring layers, including a light jacket or sweater, as well as waterproof shoes and a coat in case of rain.

When to Go to Quebec City

The best time to visit for 2 days in Quebec City depends on your preferences and interests. Here are some things to consider for each season:

1. Winter (December-February): If you enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding or want to experience Quebec City’s famous winter carnival, visiting during the winter months is a must.
2. Spring (March-May): Spring in Quebec City can be chilly, but it’s a great time to visit if you want to see the city’s gardens and parks in bloom or attend festivals like the Quebec City Sugar Shack.
3. Summer (June-August): Summer is the most popular time to visit Quebec City, with many outdoor events, festivals, and activities taking place. The warm weather also makes it a great time to explore the city’s many outdoor attractions.
4. Fall (September-November): Fall in Quebec City is known for its stunning foliage, and it’s a great time to visit if you want to see the changing colors of the trees. There are also many fall festivals and events to enjoy, such as the Festival d’été de Québec and the Quebec City Film Festival.

Overall, the months of May through October offer milder weather with fewer crowds, making it a great time to visit Quebec City.

How Long to Stay in Quebec City

The amount of time you should spend in Quebec City depends on your interests and how much you want to see and do. However, I would recommend spending at least two to three days to fully explore the city and its attractions.

During your stay, you can explore the historic Old Quebec, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to many charming streets, historic buildings, and museums. You can also visit the Château Frontenac, which is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, and take a stroll along the city walls.

Other attractions worth visiting include the Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec, the Musée de la Civilisation, the Plains of Abraham, and the Quartier Petit Champlain, which is a lively neighborhood full of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

If you have more time, you can also explore the surrounding areas, such as the Montmorency Falls and Île d’Orléans, which are both within easy reach of the city.

Overall, Quebec City is a beautiful and charming destination with plenty to see and do, so I would recommend spending as much time as you can afford to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.

How to Get Around Quebec City

Here are some ways to get around Quebec City:

1. Walking: Quebec City’s compact size makes it a very walkable city, especially in the Old Quebec area.
2. Public transportation: Quebec City has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and a ferry service. You can purchase single-ride tickets or multi-day passes for unlimited travel.
3. Taxis and ride-sharing services: Taxis are widely available in Quebec City, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the city as well.
4. Bike rentals: Bike rentals are available throughout the city, and there are many bike paths and trails to explore.
5. Car rentals: If you prefer to drive, car rentals are available at the airport and throughout the city. However, be aware that parking in the Old Quebec area can be challenging and expensive.

Overall, walking and public transportation are the most convenient and affordable ways to get around Quebec City, especially in busy tourist areas.

How Much to Travel to Quebec City

The cost of traveling for 2 days in Quebec City can vary depending on your travel style, accommodation choices, activities, and transportation options. However, here are some estimated costs to give you an idea:

Accommodation:

• Budget: $50-100 per night for a budget hotel or hostel
• Mid-range: $100-200 per night for a mid-range hotel or apartment rental
• Luxury: $200+ per night for a luxury hotel or vacation rental

Food:

• Budget: $15-30 per person per meal for street food or budget restaurants
• Mid-range: $30-50 per person per meal for mid-range restaurants
• Luxury: $50+ per person per meal for high-end restaurants

Activities:

• Most of the museums and historic sites in Quebec City charge an admission fee, ranging from $10-20 per person.
• Many outdoor activities, such as hiking or visiting parks, are free of charge.
• A day pass for public transportation costs around $10 per person.

Transportation:

• The cost of flights or train tickets to Quebec City can vary greatly depending on your location and the time of year. Generally, you can expect to pay $300-600 per person for a round-trip flight.
• Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Quebec City, with fares ranging from $10-30 depending on the distance traveled.
• Bike rentals are available throughout the city for around $20-30 per day.

Overall, you can expect to spend around $100-200 per day per person for a mid-range trip to Quebec City, including accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.