Quebec City, with its cobblestone streets, charming European feel, and rich history, is a fantastic destination for a Canada family holiday. This travel guide explores the best things to do, places to stay, and insider tips for an unforgettable adventure in Quebec City with kids.
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Why Visit Quebec City With Kids
- A Blend of Cultures: Quebec City offers a unique blend of French and North American cultures, exposing your kids to new languages, customs, and delicious cuisine.
- Walkable City: The historic core of Quebec City is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore with little ones.
- Family-Friendly Activities: From exploring museums to riding a funicular railway, Quebec City offers a variety of activities that will keep kids entertained.
- Beautiful Scenery: Quebec City boasts stunning natural beauty, with waterfalls, parks, and a scenic riverfront.
- Safe and Welcoming: Quebec City is a safe and welcoming city for families, with plenty of amenities and English-speaking locals.
Things to Do in Quebec City With Kids
- Explore Old Quebec (Petit Champlain): Get lost in the charming cobblestone streets of Petit Champlain, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.
- Ride the Funicular: Take a funicular railway up the cliffside for stunning views of the city and a unique transportation experience.
- Visit the Aquarium du Quebec: Discover the underwater world at the Aquarium du Quebec, with interactive exhibits, a touch tank, and fascinating marine life.
- Step Back in Time at La Citadelle: Explore the star-shaped fortress of La Citadelle, learning about Quebec City’s military history with costumed interpreters.
- Stroll Along the Dufferin Terrace: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Dufferin Terrace, offering panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and a chance to fly a kite.
Best Places to Visit in Quebec City with Kids
- Plains of Abraham: Run around the expansive Plains of Abraham, where historic battles took place, and enjoy kite-flying, biking, or picnicking.
- Musée de la civilisation: Immerse yourselves in interactive exhibits at the Musée de la civilisation, focusing on human history, science, and technology.
- Montmorency Falls: Take a day trip to witness the awe-inspiring Montmorency Falls, even taller than Niagara Falls! Enjoy cable car rides, zip lines, and walking paths.
- Choco Museum Érico: Learn about the art of chocolate making at the Choco Museum Érico, with delicious samples and interactive demonstrations.
- Village Vacances Valcartier: For a thrilling waterpark experience, head to Village Vacances Valcartier, featuring slides, wave pools, and a variety of attractions (seasonal).
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Quebec City
- Petit Champlain: Immerse yourselves in the historic charm by staying in Petit Champlain, close to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Saint-Jean: The lively Saint-Jean Baptiste district offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and a youthful vibe, within walking distance of major sights.
- Quartier du Parlement: Located near the Plains of Abraham and Parliament Hill, this area is quieter but still close to the action.
- Sillery: For a more relaxed stay with easy access to nature, consider Sillery, near Montmorency Falls and family-friendly hotels.
- Sainte-Foy: Located outside the city walls, Sainte-Foy offers modern amenities, shopping malls, and family-friendly hotels at a slightly lower price point.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Quebec City
- Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: Experience the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac for a luxurious stay with stunning views, kids’ clubs, and special family packages.
- Auberge Saint-Antoine: This charming boutique hotel offers spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a central location in Petit Champlain.
- Hôtel Universel: Located near the Plains of Abraham, Hôtel Universel features family rooms, an indoor pool, and a great breakfast.
- Delta Hotels by Marriott Quebec: This modern hotel boasts an indoor pool, waterslide, and spacious rooms perfect for families, close to the Parliament Buildings.
- Hilton Québec: The Hilton Quebec offers a central location, an indoor pool, and spacious rooms with amenities like cribs and high chairs available.
Best Time to Visit Quebec City
- Summer (June-August): Enjoy warm weather, outdoor festivals, and longer days for exploring. However, expect larger crowds and higher prices.
- Fall (September-November): Experience beautiful fall foliage, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds than summer.
- Winter (December-February): Quebec City transforms into a winter wonderland with festive activities, ice skating rinks, and the iconic Carnaval de Québec.
- Spring (March-May): Enjoy pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and shoulder season pricing before the summer rush.
How Long to Stay in Quebec City
Quebec City offers a variety of experiences for families, so the ideal length of your stay depends on your interests.
- Short Getaway (2-3 days): Focus on exploring the historic core of Quebec City, visiting iconic landmarks like Chateau Frontenac and Place Royale.
- Family Adventure (4-5 days): In addition to the historic core, venture out to Montmorency Falls, explore museums like the Aquarium du Quebec, and enjoy outdoor activities like biking on the Plains of Abraham.
- Extended Exploration (1 week or more): Take your time immersing yourselves in the culture, explore nearby towns like Ile d’Orleans, and experience seasonal events like the summer festivals or winter Carnaval.
Quebec City Family Itinerary
Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 4-day family vacation in Quebec City:
- Day 1: Explore Petit Champlain, ride the funicular railway, and visit the Chateau Frontenac. Enjoy a delicious crepe for dinner in a sidewalk cafe.
- Day 2: Spend the morning at the Aquarium du Quebec, followed by an afternoon picnic and kite-flying on the Plains of Abraham. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Quebec sugar shack dinner.
- Day 3: Take a day trip to Montmorency Falls, experiencing the cable car, zip lines, and walking trails. In the afternoon, explore the interactive exhibits at the Musée de la civilisation.
- Day 4: Stroll along the Dufferin Terrace, soaking in the views and enjoying street performers. In the afternoon, visit the Choco Museum Érico for a sweet treat and a fun learning experience. Cap off your trip with a farewell dinner in the lively Saint-Jean Baptiste district.
Getting Around Quebec City
Quebec City is a walkable city, and most attractions within the historic core can be easily reached on foot.
- Walking: The most convenient way to explore Quebec City, especially with younger children.
- Bus: The public bus system (RTC) is efficient and affordable, connecting various districts and attractions.
- Taxi/Ride-sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available for longer distances or when carrying strollers.
- Ferry: Take a scenic ferry ride across the St. Lawrence River to explore the charming town of Levis.
Quebec City offers a unique blend of history, culture, and family-friendly fun, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable family vacation. With its charming streets, delicious food, and exciting attractions, Quebec City will create lasting memories for you and your kids. So, pack your bags, brush up on your “bonjour” (hello!), and get ready to experience the magic of Quebec City with your family!
