Located in Eastern Canada, Quebec City is known as the birthplace of French North America. Brimming with European charm, quaint cobbled streets, and historic landmarks, Quebec City is a magical place all year-round, but even more so in the winter months. I spent 3 days in Quebec City in winter earlier this year and quickly fell in love with the city. The beautiful Christmas decorations, charming cafes, and well-preserved fortifications made me feel like I’d been transported back to France!
I’ve put together this 3-day Quebec City winter itinerary for first-time visitors who want to see the popular attractions but also discover some local gems. From exploring the iconic Old Town to indulging in French-Canadian cuisine, I’m sharing everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable winter trip to Quebec City this year.
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Quebec City trip planning essentials
Before we jump into this 3-day Quebec City winter itinerary, here’s some must-know information to help you plan your trip:
How to get to Quebec City
As we were coming from Ottawa, we opted to travel on Via Rail but you can also fly or drive depending on where you’re travelling from:
By Train
Via Rail operates train services to Quebec City from various Canadian cities, including Montreal and Ottawa. We really enjoyed taking the train through the snowy, picturesque Quebec landscapes. If you live in Montreal or Ottawa and want to spend 3 days in Quebec City during winter, I highly recommend travelling by train so you don’t have to worry about road conditions.
By Air
If you live further away, you can fly into Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB). It offers domestic flights from major Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, as well as international flights from destinations in the US and Europe. Flying to Quebec City for this 3-day winter itinerary is a great option as they city is very walkable so you won’t need a car once you arrive. You can check flight prices and find the best rates here.
By car
While you won’t need a car for this itinerary, you can drive if you want to explore further afield or combine this city break with a longer Quebec road trip. The highways and roads are well-maintained all-year round; however, winter weather can result in closures and delays. Always check Ontario 511 and Québec 511 for the latest information before setting off.
Car hire
I personally use Auto Europe for car rentals as they have great rates. You can compare all the major companies in a grid format that shows the prices for different car sizes by provider. If you need any help, their 24/7 customer service is very good. Find the best car rentals in Quebec City here.
How to get around Quebec City in winter
Walking
Even in winter, Quebec City is a very walkable city as most of the main attractions are located close together in Old Quebec. As a result, the best way to make the most of your 3 days in Quebec City is to explore on foot. You’ll get to see a lot more of this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site while minimizing your carbon footprint. If you like guided tours, I recommend joining this Quebec City walking tour. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s history and familiarise yourself with the different areas.
Public transport
Quebec City’s public transit system, Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC), operates buses throughout the city, providing an affordable and convenient way to get around. Buses are equipped to handle winter conditions, making them a reliable option for traveling to different neighborhoods and attractions.
Taxis
Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available in Quebec City and offer a convenient way to get around, especially during bad weather in the winter months.
Horse-drawn carriages
For a romantic and scenic way to explore the Old Town, you can book a horse-drawn carriage ride. These rides provide a unique perspective on the city’s historic landmarks and winter beauty and offer a reminder of bygone eras.
Driving
If you do plan to visit any attractions outside of Old Quebec City, you may need a car. If you flew into Quebec City, you can easily rent a car at the airport. Navigating snowy roads and finding parking can be challenging during the winter months. Another alternative is to book a tour with transportation. I’ve included some suggestions later in this itinerary.
When is the best time to do this 3-day winter Quebec City trip?
From late November to early March, Quebec City transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland. While this entire season is magical, here are a few things to note when planning when to spend 3 days in Quebec City in winter:
Temperatures
In winter, Quebec City experiences cold temperatures and snowy conditions. Average temperatures range from -15°C to -5°C. The coldest months are typically December, January and February when the wind-chill can make it feel like -22°C to -27°C. Regardless of when you visit in winter, make sure you pack thermal layers. I’ve included a packing list at the end of this guide.
Festive season
One of the highlights of spending 3 days in Quebec City in winter is experiencing the festive season. From late November to early January, the city is adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and Christmas markets, creating an enchanting ambiance for visitors of all ages. The Quebec Winter Carnival is held in late January to early February, and is another must-see event. It includes parades, ice sculptures, outdoor concerts, and a variety of winter activities. If you want to experience these events, make sure you plan to visit in December and January.
Accommodation
As with most cities, accommodation is more expensive during the festive season and can book out months in advance. If you are planning to spend 3 days in Quebec City during the Christmas period, make sure you book your accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment. We visited in late January and it was a lot cheaper. The decorations and lights are still up so you can enjoy the festive ambiance but it’s much quieter and cheaper than the peak winter season.
Is 3 days in Quebec City enough?
I personally think 3 days in Quebec City during winter is long enough. It will give you plenty of time to explore the main sites and venture further afield but also accounts for the winter weather. Due to the cold temperatures, you won’t be able to pack as much into a winter trip as you would a summer trip. We went in late January and had daily temperatures of -15 to -22°C so while we managed to see a lot, we had to be realistic about how long we could spend outside each day.
Three days will give you time to focus on the main attractions, such as Place Royale, Château Frontenac, and the historic fortifications. If you have more time, you can venture further afield to places like Montmorency Falls, Île d’Orléans, or nearby ski resorts.
Important information about Quebec City
- Currency: Quebec City used the Canadian Dollar.
- Language: The official language of Quebec City is French. While English is widely spoken, it’s good to learn some of the basic words and phrases before you go.
- Payment method: Most places in Quebec City accept credit cards, including attractions, shops and taxis. You can take some cash with you but we used our credit cards for everything in Quebec City without a problem. The only exception is the funicular which takes cash only.
Where to stay in Quebec City
As you only have 3 days in Quebec City, I recommend staying in Old Quebec close to all the main attractions. Accommodation here can be more expensive as you’re in the heart of the city; however, you can usually find some good deals.
We stayed at the Auberge Saint-Antoine during our most recent trip to Quebec City and had an incredible stay. Located in the lower part of Old Quebec, the hotel is so close to some of the prettiest streets and popular sightseeing spots in the city. All the rooms are uniquely decorated and have everything you need – from a vast tea selection to a rock tray for your wet winter boots!
The hotel has a complete wellness centre with a well-equipped gym, treatment rooms for massage and facials, as well as two saunas. They have two restaurants, Bar Artefact and Chez Muffy, both of which serve delicious farm-to-fork dishes. And there’s even a cinema room if you want an epic movie night!
We were kindly hosted by the hotel but were so impressed with the staff, hotel amenities and food, that we’re planning to go back next year as paying guests. If you’re looking for a stylish hotel close to the main attractions that offers great value for money, Auberge Saint-Antoine is a great option.
3 Days in Quebec City Map
Below you’ll find an itinerary map for this Quebec City itinerary which features pins the attractions, restaurants, and hotels mentioned in this guide. You can save the map by clicking on the star next to the title and use it during your trip.
3 Days in Quebec City in winter
With its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and European charm, Quebec City is the perfect city break – especially in winter. After a fresh dusting of snow, Quebec City is a real-life winter wonderland. There is so much to see and do but this 3-day Quebec City winter itinerary will help you plan your time effectively so you can explore the main attractions in Old Quebec and further afield.
Day 1
The best way to kick off your 3 days in Quebec City in winter is by exploring Old Quebec. As the birthplace of French North America, this is where you’ll find many of the city’s most popular attractions.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Old Quebec is the only walled city in North America north of Mexico. It’s divided into two sections; Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville). They’re connected by a funicular and an iconic staircase known as “Breakneck Stairs”. This 3-day Quebec City winter itinerary will start with the Lower Town which is arguably one of the prettiest parts of the city.
Explore Place Royale
Nestled in the heart of the Lower Town, Place Royale is a picturesque square steeped in history and charm. This iconic landmark holds great significance as the site where, in 1608, Samuel de Champlain established the first permanent French settlement in North America. Today, visitors can stroll along the cobblestone streets and admire the beautifully preserved 17th-century buildings that line the square. Make sure you pop inside Notre-Dame des Victoires Church. Located in the centre of Place Royale, this is one of the oldest stone churches in North America. It was built between 1687 and 1723, and was restored in 1816.
During the holiday season, Place Royale transforms into a festive wonderland, with a majestic Christmas tree taking centre stage. It’s a beautiful place to take photos, especially at night when the tree is lit up and the carollers are out.
Get lost in Quartier Petit Champlain
Just around the corner from Place Royale, you’ll find Canada’s prettiest pedestrian street (in my opinion). Quartier Petit Champlain is one of the oldest commercial streets in North America and is a wonder to stroll aimlessly. Here you’ll find one-of-a-kind boutiques selling everything from clothes and jewellery to sculptures and artwork. It’s a great place to find unique items made by local artisans that you would struggle to find anywhere else in Canada.
Quartier Petit Champlain is one of the most festive spots in the city. The decorations stay up all winter long so it is a beautiful place to take photos, especially after a fresh snowfall. It does get very busy so I recommend getting there early before the shops open if you want to take photos of the streets without the crowds.
During our 3 days in Quebec City, we must have walked through this area several times and took an obscene amount of photos! I’ve put together a guide to the best photography spots in Old Quebec City with all the beautiful places we found on our trip.
Ride the Funicular
Once you’ve finished exploring Quartier Petit Champlain, it’s time to head to the Upper Town. You can either take the stairs or ride the funicular to the top. As the pavements can be quite slippery in winter, I actually suggest walking up the stairs to the Upper Town and taking the funicular back down. If the stairs and pavements are really icy, I would opt for the funicular both ways unless you have boots with very good grip. We walked up and down a few times during our 3 days in Quebec City but found the final day very tough due to an overnight freeze.
The funicular only accepts cash so make sure you have some with you before you go. It costs $5 for one ride and you just pay when you arrive (you can’t book tickets in advance. If you are a wheelchair user or a child under 46 inches tall, the funicular is free; however, wheelchair access is closed during winter unfortunately. You can take strollers and pets on the funicular. For more information, visit the funicular official website.
Discover the iconic Château Frontenac
Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by one of the world’s most photographed hotels, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Towering over Old Quebec City, the Château Frontenac has been the crown jewel for over 125 years. You can walk all the way around the hotel but I highly recommend going inside to get a closer look. You can take a guided tour through the hotel’s public spaces where you’ll learn about its role in French Canadian history as well as its famous guests.
If you’re not a fan of guided tours, you can still go inside this iconic hotel and eat in one of the restaurants. There are two lovely options; Le Champlain and Le Sam. There is also Bar 1608 which has a fantastic view of the St. Lawrence River, making it the best place in the city for cocktails.
Go tobogganing at Dufferin Terrace
Dufferin Terrace is a long wooden sidewalk located in front of the Château Frontenac. Named after Governor General Dufferin, the terrace was reserved for private use for many years before it was opened to the public in 1838. It’s a must-see during your 3 days in Quebec City in winter. Not only does it have beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River and surrounding area, but it’s also home to one of the best winter activities in Quebec City, the toboggan!
Built in 1884, the toboggan has become an iconic attraction. You can rent a toboggan and race down one of the three lanes. The toboggan is usually open from mid-December to mid-March and costs $4 CAD a go. Make sure you wrap up warm because you can go as fast as 70 km/h! Luckily, the kiosk at the bottom of the tobogganing runs serves what I’ve heard is the best hot chocolate in the city to help you warm up.
Visit Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
Even if you’re not religious, I recommend adding this to your 3-day Quebec City itinerary. This majestic cathedral dates back to the 17th century. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone several renovations and reconstructions, resulting in the stunning neo-classical façade and intricate interior that visitors admire today.
Inside, you’ll be greeted by awe-inspiring stained glass windows, ornate woodwork, and majestic vaulted ceilings. The cathedral’s rich artistic heritage is further highlighted by its collection of religious artifacts and artwork, including the renowned Holy Door, which holds deep significance for pilgrims. One of seven such doors worldwide, this is the only Holy Door outside of Europe and it is currently open until December 8, 2024, when it will be sealed shut.
Stop at Montmorency Park National Historic Site
Montmorency Park National Historic Site is a tranquil oasis steeped in history. Originally established in 1759 as a military parade ground, the park boasts lush greenery, winding pathways, and stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. The park was designated a historical site of Canada in 1949 and you can see the old remnants of the fort today in the park. It’s also one of my favourite photography locations in Quebec City as it has a lovely view of the Château Frontenac.
Watch the sunset at the Old Port
If the weather is nice, I recommend wandering down to the Old Port to catch the sunset before dinner. Place des Canotiers is a pretty square overlooking the St. Lawrence River with scenic views looking back at the iconic Château Frontenac and the stone fortifications. In summer, the square normally displays various works of art and also has fountains and mist sprays. If you visit here during your 3 days in Quebec City in winter, it’s a lot quieter as the square is covered in snow.
It’s a great place to watch the sunset over the river with the town of Lévis in the distance. The Old Port is also home to many antique shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Check out rue Saint-Paul and rue Saint-Pierre when you’re in the area.
Enjoy dinner at Bar Artefact
There’s no shortage of amazing restaurants in Quebec City but you have to try Bar Artefact during your 3-day trip! Located in Auberge Saint-Antoine, the bar is aptly named after the relics that were unearthed on site during a recent excavation dig. These artefacts include the Dauphine Battery and objects that date back to six different eras and are beautifully displayed in cases in the bar area.
We stayed at Auberge Saint-Antoine during our 3 days in Quebec City in winter and were lucky enough to snag the best table in the restaurant right in front of the fire. It was such a nice way to warm up after a busy day exploring. Make sure you try their cocktails too as they have one of the most creative menus in Quebec City with unique concoctions that you won’t find anywhere else!
Day 2
Day two of your 3-day Quebec City winter getaway will take you all around the Upper Town. You’ll spend the day exploring some of the old fortifications and historic landmarks which make Quebec City so unique. Make sure you wrap up warm and wear your best walking boots as you’ll be covering a lot of ground today!
Head up to Parc du Bastion-de-la-Reine
Nestled along the fortified walls of Quebec City’s Old Town, Parc du Bastion-de-la-Reine offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the Upper Town. With its panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River, Dufferin Terrace and Château Frontenac, I personally think it’s one of the best photography spots in Quebec City.
Originally a military bastion built in the 17th century, the park now features lush green spaces, walking paths, and historical markers. In the summer months, it’s a lovely place to enjoy a picnic and watch the sunset. In winter, it’s transformed into a winter wonderland and becomes a tranquil retreat for locals and visitors alike.
Step back in time at the Plains of Abraham
In 1759, the Plains of Abraham was the site of the pivotal battle in the Seven Years’ War between the British and French forces. Today, this expansive park is much more peaceful. Visitors can explore the different walking trails, scenic viewpoints and remnants of military fortifications. If you want to learn more about the Battle of the Plains of Abraham, make sure you plan to visit the Plains of Abraham Museum. It’s open every day from 9am to 5pm. You can find more information on the official website.
In the summer, the park hosts various cultural events, such as the Quebec City Summer Festival where tens of thousands of people flock to hear some of the world’s best artists. In winter, the park is a great place to go ice skating or cross-country skiing.
If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can actually reach the Plains of Abraham via the Governors’ Promenade. The steps are located at the end of Dufferin Terrace and will take you along the Governors’ Promenade boardwalk all the way to the park. Unfortunately, if you’re spending 3 days in Quebec City in winter, it’s likely that the staircase to the promenade will be closed due to ice and snow. Luckily, you can still access the park via the main street.
Visit the Citadelle of Québec
Perched on top of Cap Diamant, Quebec City’s Citadelle is Britain’s biggest fortress in North America dating back to the 17th century. It has housed the Royal 22nd Regiment since 1920 and is the oldest military building in Canada still in use. History lovers can explore the fortress’s impressive ramparts, bastions, and barracks, and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a time-honoured tradition.
The Citadelle and museum are open daily. You can book a guided tour to learn more about its rich military history and strategic importance. Guided tours are available in English and French. You can find more information and book tickets on the Citadelle’s official website.
Stop at Parliament Building
The next stop on today’s itinerary is the Quebec Parliament Building. Built in the late 19th century, it is home to the National Assembly of Quebec. The building is an architectural masterpiece and one of the few buildings constructed in the Second Empire style. In summer, you can walk around the beautiful gardens and admire the statues around the exterior. If you’re spending 3 days in Quebec City in winter, I highly recommend going inside and joining one of their free guided tours. Not only is it a nice way to escape the cold for a little bit, but you’ll also learn about the building’s rich history and political significance. You can explore its ornate chambers, majestic library, and impressive artwork. You can book a guided tour in French or English which last an hour. If you book in advance, you can also reserve a Spanish tour.
Enjoy panoramic views at the Observatoire de la Capitale
Looking for the best views in Quebec City? The Observatoire de la Capitale is a must-visit attraction in Quebec City, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounded landscapes. Situated on the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building, the observatory has an unparalleled vantage point to admire Quebec City’s historic landmarks and natural beauty. It’s open daily and costs $14.75 CAD for adults and $7 CAD for children over 6 years old. I would plan to spend about an hour up there if you go as there are some great exhibits and short videos about the history of Quebec.
I always recommend booking your tour tickets through Get Your Guide or Viator as you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The weather is so changeable in Quebec City in winter so having this flexibility is reassuring. Some tours even let you reserve in advance and pay later for added peace of mind.
Check out St. Jean Gate
One of the things that makes Quebec City so unique is that it’s the only fortified city north of Mexico. The old fortifications have been well preserved and many of the original structures still exist today. On this Quebec City 3-day itinerary, you’ll pass by a lot of the fortifications, one of which is St. Jean Gate.
One of four gates, it dates back to the 17th century when it served as a key entry point through the fortified walls surrounding the city. Today, the gate’s elegant architecture and imposing presence offer a glimpse into Quebec City’s past as a fortified stronghold.
Go ice-skating at Place d’Youville
You can’t spend 3 days in Quebec City in winter and not go iceskating at least once! Place d’Youville is a historic square surrounded by beautiful buildings and a great outdoor ice rink. It’s one of the best things to do in Quebec City in winter. There are lots of lovely cafes and restaurants near the square where you can warm up with a hotel beverage and some French-Canadian delicacies.
The rink is open from mid-November to mid-March and is free to use. There are skate rental and sharpening services onsite. For more information, visit Quebec City’s official website.
Dine in Old Quebec
The Lower Town is so magical in winter with all the lights and Christmas decorations so I recommend eating here and taking a walk around the streets after dinner. There are plenty of lovely restaurants to choose from depending on your taste and budget, but most of them do close relatively early (around 10pm) so plan accordingly. We ate in Va Bene Bar Antipasto on Rue Sous-le-Fort and Sapristi Champlain on Boulevard Champlain during our 3 days in Quebec City. Both had such a cozy ambiance and served delicious dishes.
Day 3
After two busy days in Quebec City, it’s time to relax a bit today! As you’ll have to travel home today, I suggest having a more leisurely morning – and what better way to do that than brunch and a spa!
Get brunch in the Old Town
Start your day off with a delicious brunch. There are so many amazing options to choose from in Old Quebec. If you like crepes, head to Le Billig. They serve the best crepes I’ve had outside of France and have gluten-free options. For more variety, try Cochon Dingue. They have an extensive breakfast and brunch menu with classic Quebec dishes with a Parisian twist.
If you’re staying at Auberge Saint-Antoine, you have to try the brunch at their restaurant, Chez Muffy. Trust me when I say you won’t be disappointed! They offer a continental buffet or a selection of hot dishes. We had Le Délicieux (baked apple served with oatmeal, maple pastry cream, ice cider sabayon and cinnamon) and Le Fumoir (smoked salmon on toast with edamame purée, poached egg, and marinated red onion). Both of which I highly recommend!
Unwind at Strom Nordic Spa
Located in Quebec City, Strom Nordic Spa is a serene retreat. Open daily from 9am to 10pm, it has a range of relaxation facilities. You can enjoy the outdoor whirlpools, the floation bath with Epson salt, the infinity pool overlooking the river, as well as relaxation areas with fireplaces and Finnish saunas. Afterwards, you can enjoy a bite to eat in their on-site restaurant which serves Scandinavian-inspired cuisine and offers panoramic views of the river.
Prices vary depending on the day and time that you want to go, with rates starting at CAD $45 for access to the baths. You can add on additional services such as massages and treatments for an extra fee. I recommend booking your tickets through Get Your Guide in case your plans change. You can cancel up until 24 hours before your spa session and get a full refund.
Or, visit Montmorency Falls
If you prefer something more outdoorsy for your final day in Quebec City, Montmorency Falls are a spectacular sight in winter. They’re located just 15 minutes from Old Quebec City and at 83 m (272.3′) high, they’re taller than Niagara Falls!
Depending on the conditions when you visit, you can ride the cable car, walk the suspension bridge, and go snowshoeing around the park. Seeing the falls frozen is breathtaking!
If you don’t have a car, don’t worry. You can take the #800 bus from downtown Quebec City towards Beauport and get off at Montmorency #3473. From there, it’s just a short walk to the suspension bridge at the top of the falls.
More things to do in Quebec City in winter
There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Quebec City in winter. Here are a few more ideas to help you plan the perfect trip:
- Marché de Noël Allemand: The German Christmas Market is one of the best Christmas events in Quebec City. The market is located in the heart of Old Quebec at various locations such as Place d’Youville, Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville and Saint-Anne Street. It’s free to attend and usually runs from the end of November to the end of December. You can find more information on their website.
- German Christmas Market Tasting Tour: The market is free to explore but if you want to learn more about the history of this unique event and the tradition of Christmas markets in Germany, I recommend joining this German Christmas Market Tasting Tour. You’ll get to sample a range of typical German products, including spiced mulled wine.
- The Grand Christmas Market: This festive event takes place at Le Grand Marché de Québec. The indoor marketplace hosts over 200 food companies and local artisans every year for the Christmas market. Like the Marché de Noël Allemand, it’s free to attend and runs from the end of November until just before Christmas. You can find more details nearer the time on their official website.
- La Boutique de Noël de Québec: If you’re visiting during the Christmas season, this shop is the perfect place to pick up some decorations and souvenirs.
- Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel): Located just 20 minutes from the city centre, the Ice Hotel is made from snow and ice and is open to visitors from January to March. The ultimate experience is to stay overnight, but it’s also possible to just take a tour of the hotel and check out the ice bar.
What to pack for 3 days in Quebec City in winter
Winter in Quebec City can get really cold so you’ll need to be prepared and pack appropriately so you can enjoy your trip safely. You’ll want to bring a lot of good quality layers. Here’s an overview of what I took with me on my winter trip to Quebec City:
Base layers
Breathable base layers are crucial when visiting Quebec City in winter. You’ll want to layer properly to stay nice and warm when outside in the cold. I always take my Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew and my Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Crew Thermal Top as they’re easy to layer. They’re also odour resistant and quick drying.
I also suggest packing a couple of pairs of thermal bottoms for layering under pants as you’ll want the extra warmth. I took my Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms and my Icebreaker 200 Oasis Leggings and alternated between them.
Mid-layers
You’ll need to pack a couple of mid-layers for insulation. I took my Patagonia Better Sweater 1/4 Zip Fleece and my Patagonia Los Gatos 1/4-Zip.
Outer layers
I recommend taking a couple of outer layers to suit the different activities you plan to do in Quebec City. I found myself reaching for my Eddie Bauer Cascadian Down Parka almost every day. It has a temperature rating of -42°C (-45°F) but it’s incredibly lightweight which makes it a very comfortable but cozy option. Another good option would be to take a parka like the Columbia South Canyon Sherpa which has a fleece lining but is waterproof.
Pants
For causal sightseeing in Quebec City in winter, I wore a pair of jeans or fleece-lined black leggings on top of my thermal pants. If you’re heading out hiking or snowshoeing, I would recommend wearing thermal pants, fleece-lined leggings, and a pair of waterproof pants.
Socks
As someone with very delicate feet and poor circulation, I changed to merino wool socks a couple of years ago and will never go back! They’re great for hiking and exploring. They are the most breathable option and are also moisture wicking and odour resistant. I’ve also found that they’ve prevented me from getting blisters when hiking long distances.
I normally pack several pairs of socks in case I want to double up on extremely cold days. My go-to hiking socks are Smartwool Classic Hike Full Cushion Crew Socks and Darn Tough Hiker Cushion Micro Crew Socks.
Waterproof shoes
If you’re 3 days in Quebec City in winter, you’ll need to bring waterproof winter or snow boots. I’ve had KEEN hiking boots since moving to Canada and would recommend something similar to the KEEN Revel IV Mid Polar Waterproof Winter Boots. They’re packed with insulation and have great grip.
Accessories
Don’t go to Quebec City in winter without your warm hat/ toque, gloves, and neck scarf/ warmer. I recommend getting items that have fleece lining to keep you nice and warm and stop heat escaping from your extremities.
Final thoughts on 3 days in Quebec City in winter
Quebec City is one of my favourite winter destinations in Canada. There is so much to see but with careful planning you can cover a lot of Quebec City in 3 days. I hope you found this blog post helpful. If you have any questions, please drop them in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer them.
Where next?
If you’re looking for more short break ideas in Canada, have a look at these guides:
- Victoria: Perched on southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. If you’re looking for a city break that combines culture, history and outdoor adventures, Victoria is the perfect choice. Read the full guide >
- Telegraph Cove: Voted as one of Canada’s most picturesque villages, Telegraph Cove is a charming boardwalk community which offers an array of magnificent adventures. From whale watching and grizzly bear viewing to kayaking and fishing, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Telegraph Cove. Read the full guide >
- Cowichan Valley: Home to rolling hills, stunning orchards and expansive farmlands, Cowichan produces incredible artisanal food and drink. Read the full guide >
- Gibsons: Formally known as Gibson’s Landing, this quaint town is the gateway to British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. It’s home to beautiful scenery and an ever-growing number of award-winning breweries and distilleries. Read the full guide >
- Tofino: Known as the surf capital of Canada, Tofino has some of the best beaches in BC! Visit in summer for incredible sunsets or winter for storm watching. Explore the gorgeous hiking trails or book a scenic flight for a completely new perspective. Read the full guide >
Love from Steph
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