The best things to do in Quebec City in winter

This guide focuses on things you can enjoy all winter long in Quebec City. If you’re planning your trip around festive experiences like the Christmas markets, Ice Hotel or Winter Carnival, I’ve written a separate blog post about these seasonal events.

Quebec City is one of my favourite winter getaways. Not many places embrace winter the way Quebec does. From Nordic spas and historical landmarks to ice canoeing and tobogganing, there are so many fun things to do in Quebec City in winter.

From mid-November to mid-March, Quebec City offers a mix of winter activities and experiences, many of which can be enjoyed throughout the season. While a lot of people choose to visit in December to see the Christmas markets, there’s plenty to experience all winter long.

I’ve been to Quebec City in winter twice now – once in November for a quick work trip and once in January for a long weekend break. I’ve put together this guide to help you plan the perfect winter trip to Quebec City. I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Quebec City in winter, including outdoor activities, local cuisine you must try, and the best scenic views. I’ve also written a detailed 3-day Quebec City winter itinerary that you can follow too if you need more inspiration!

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THE BEST WINTER ACTIVITIES IN QUEBEC CITY

Quebec City is an amazing winter destination but it does get incredibly cold so you need to be prepared and pack the right things. I’ve included some must-know information at the end of this guide to help you plan your own winter trip, including weather by month, packing essentials, and other helpful tips. Now, let’s jump into the very best things to do in Quebec City in winter!

1. Wander around the picturesque Quartier Petit Champlain

Nestled in the Basse-Ville (lower town), the Petit Champlain district is one of the most festive spots in the city. You’ve probably seen photos of the quaint cobbled streets lined with 18^thcentury buildings online – well, this is where you’ll find most of them!

As someone who loves photography (I never go away without my camera!), simply walking down the streets here is one of my favourite things to do in Quebec City in winter. The decorations and illuminated trees stay up all winter long, making it a very picturesque area, especially after a fresh snowfall.

I’ve put together a guide to the best photography spots in Old Quebec City but here are a few of the places you should check out:

Rue Sous-le-Fort

This is hands down my favourite photography spot in Quebec City! From the bottom of the road (on the corner of rue Sous-le-Fort and rue Saint-Pierre) you’ll be able to capture a picture-perfect scene. Cobblestones, charming stone houses and the magical Château Frontenac towering above – it’s easy to believe you’ve stepped into a fairytale! Further up the road, you’ll get a great view of the famous funicular that has connected the Lower and Upper Towns since 1879.

Rue Cul-de-Sac

If you’re looking for a lovely view of the chateau, head to Rue Cul-de-Sac. It’s also known as Umbrella Alley thanks to the colourful overhead umbrellas, although both times I went they weren’t up so I think it might be a summer thing.

Rue du Petit Champlain

Rue du Petit Champlain is one of Canada’s prettiest pedestrian street – in my opinion anyway! It’s also one of the oldest commercial streets in North America. Here you’ll find one-of-a-kind boutiques selling everything from clothes and jewellery to sculptures and artwork.

Breakneck Stairs

The Breakneck Staircase (L’Escalier Casse-Cou) was built in 1635 and is Quebec City’s oldest stairway. It connects rue du Petit-Champlain to Côte de la Montagne which leads to the Haute-Ville (upper town). Standing at the top of Côte de la Montagne looking down over the old street covered in snow is still one of the top moments from my trip.

You can walk around on your own but if you want to learn more about the city’s history, there are plenty of great guided tours to pick from. We did this tour on our first day and it was the perfect introduction to Quebec City. I always try and do a guided walking tour when I get to a new city as it’s a great way to see the city and get your bearings. We learnt so much from our tour guide, Luis, and came away with lots of fun facts. This tour also includes a ticket for the funicular.

2. Go (Christmas) shopping

Whenever I visit a new city, I love to check out the independent stores and look for souvenirs and keep sakes to take home. If you’re anything like me, make sure you take some time to pop into the shops when you visit Quebec City as there are some really lovely ones. It’s also a great way to escape the cold and warm up for a bit!

Rue du Petit Champlain is lined with cute boutiques selling everything from locally made gifts and artisan products to winter accessories. If you have a sweet tooth (or are looking for gifts for someone who does!), check out La Fudgerie and La Petite Cabane à Sucre de Québec. There are so many delicious things to choose from so I promise you won’t be disappointed!

And since you’re visiting during the festive season, don’t miss La Boutique de Noël de Québec – the city’s Christmas shop. It’s the perfect place to pick up some decorations and souvenirs. This famous little shop is one of the best things to do in winter in Quebec City but it’s actually open year-round!

If you get to Quebec City and realise it’s much colder than you were expecting (psst, read my winter packing list before you go!), don’t worry. Just head to an indoor shopping centre like Laurier Québec where you’ll find a mix of local and international brands. So if you need extra layers, winter boots, or hand warmers, you’ll easily find them here!

3. Explore the historic Place Royale

Okay, technically Place Royale is in Quartier Petit-Champlain, but this square has such historical significance that I think it deserves its own section! It’s where, in 1608, Samuel de Champlain established the first permanent French settlement in North America. This site is the very foundation of Quebec City and it really does feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you visit the square.

Place Royale is also where you’ll find one of the oldest stone churches in North America – Notre-Dame des Victoires Church. Located in the centre of Place Royale, this church was built between 1687 and 1723 and was restored in 1816. If you’re thinking ‘hmmm that looks familiar’, you might be recognising it from Steven Spielberg’s Catch Me If You Can featuring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks. The church and square were used for the Montpellier in France scenes where Frank (DiCaprio) is arrested by police for the first time.

Whether you’ve seen the movie or not, Place Royale should definitely be on your list of things to do in Quebec City in winter. During the holiday season, the square transforms into a festive wonderland, with a majestic Christmas tree taking centre stage.

4. Ride the old funicular

As I mentioned earlier, Old Quebec is divided into two sections: Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville). They’re connected by a funicular and the Breakneck Stairs. Quebec City is a hilly city and in winter the pavements and stairs can get very slippery. Jumping on the funicular is a welcome break from the icy steps and steep streets. It’s only a short ride so you’ll get up or down in just a few minutes, making it super convenient!

Even if you don’t need to use it, I highly recommend riding the funicular at least once during your visit! It’s one of the most iconic things to do in Quebec City, especially in winter, and the views over the St Lawrence River and snow-covered rooftops are beautiful.

The funicular only accepts cash so make sure you carry some with you. It costs $5 CAD 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. Unfortunately, wheelchair access is closed during winter but you can take strollers and pets on the funicular. For more information, visit the funicular official website.

5. Visit the iconic Château Frontenac

Dufferin Terrace - winter things to do in Quebec City

Once you reach the top of the funicular, you’ll be greeted by the impressive Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, one of the most photographed hotels in the world. You can walk all the way around the hotel but trust me, you’ll want to go inside! Like all the Fairmont hotels, it has a rich history, and the decor is beautiful. Plus, walking outside in freezing temperatures means you need a few breaks to warm up from time to time!

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. Book here >

If you’re not a fan of guided tours, consider eating 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.

6. Go tobogganing at Dufferin Terrace

The toboggan slide at Dufferin Terrace is one of top things to do in Quebec City in winter. It’s one of the city’s oldest attractions dating all the way back to 1884! Located on the long wooden sidewalk in front of the Château Frontenac, it’s a thrilling winter activity and it only costs $4 CAD a go!

It’s usually open from mid-December until mid-March (depending on how much snow there has been) and has three lanes. You can rent a toboggan from Au 1884 and carry it up to the top – just be careful as the snow can make the path very slippery.

Make sure you wrap up warm because you can go as fast as 70 km/h (43 miles per hour)! There were a lot of screams when we went (I definitely screamed!) as it is so much faster than you expect it to be. Luckily, the kiosk at the bottom serves an incredible hot chocolate to help you warm up.

7. Go ice skating

Ice skating is a must-do winter activity in Quebec City. Growing up in the UK, I’m like bambi on ice (which always amuses my Canadian friends) but that didn’t stop me from having a go during my trip! There are so many great ice rinks in Quebec City to choose from but we went to Place d’Youville. It’s a historic square right next to Saint-Jean Gate surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the pretty Le Capitole Hotel. When we went, it had just started to snow so it felt like we were in a real-life snow globe!

The rink is open all season and is free to use. You can rent skates and there are sharpening services onsite. You can find more information on Quebec City’s official website. Afterwards, you can warm up and try some French-Canadian delicacies in one of the nearby cafes and restaurants.

If you want to escape the crowds and go somewhere more peaceful, Domaine de Maizerets is a lovely alternative. This recreational park spans 27 hectares and is part of a historic estate which dates back to 1705. In winter, you can go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing here as well.

For those of you looking for more unique things to do in Quebec City this winter, try Discoglace! This fun ice rink opened in 2025 and is back for the second year (open December 19, 2025, to March 8, 2026). It’s located near the Old Port of Quebec on the banks of the St. Lawrence River and is the perfect place to have some winter fun!

8. Visit Montmorency Park National Historic Site

Originally established in 1759 as a military parade ground, Montmorency Park National Historic Site is steeped in history. 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 even has canons!

It’s one of my favourite photos spots in Québec City as it has lovely views of the Château Frontenac one way, and the St. Lawrence River on the other.

9. Take in the incredible views from Pierre-Dugua-De Mons Terrace

Best attractions in Quebec City in winter

Located in Parc du Bastion-de-la-Reine, Pierre-Dugua-De Mons Terrace is one of the best viewpoints in Quebec City (in my opinion anyway)! From here, you’ll get beautiful panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River, Dufferin Terrace and Château Frontenac.

It was built as a military bastion in the 17th century but nowadays the park is a lovely spot for walking. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the best weather when we went (it was very overcast as you can see in the photo!) but the views were still amazing. On a sunny winter’s day though you’ll be able to see much further cross the river.

A word of advice – if you visit this spot on your Quebec City winter itinerary, wrap up warm! The terrace is quite exposed and this was probably the coldest place we visited on our trip.

10. Visit the Citadel and learn about Quebec City’s military history

Did you know that Quebec City is the only fortified city north of Mexico? It has such a fascinating history but what’s even more amazing is how well the old fortifications have been preserved. I was so surprised when I visited and loved seeing the old gates and remnants of military fortifications.

If you’re like me and enjoy getting lost in the history books, don’t skip the historic Citadel of Quebec! Perched on top of Cap Diamant, the Citadelle de Quebec is Britain’s largest fortress in North America and dates all the way back to the 17th century. It has housed the Royal 22nd Regiment since 1920 and is the oldest military building still in use in Canada. I loved walking around the ramparts, bastions and barracks, and even got to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

The Citadel and museum are open daily. The Citadelle is very close to Pierre-Dugua-De Mons Terrace so you can easily visit both spots back-to-back. I highly recommend booking a guided tour if you have time. Guided tours are available in English and French. I booked the one below which included entry to the museum as well. Book now >

11. Go snowshoeing at the Plains of Abraham

Close to the Citadelle de Quebec is another famous historical site, the Plains of Abraham. It was here, back in 1759, that the British defeated the French in the pivotal battle of the Seven Years’ War. Today, it’s a National Historical Park and offers a range of outdoor recreation activities, including my favourite, snowshoeing!

Snowshoeing is one of the best things to do in Quebec City in winter. It’s a lovely way to enjoy the winter landscapes and get some fresh air. Plains of Abraham has a network of well-maintained trails and also offers on-site rentals so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear. We didn’t have time to go on our trip (we only had 3 days and packed in lots of other activities) but we saw lots of people snowshoeing. Next time we’ll definitely be going!

If you want to learn more about the Battle of the Plains of Abraham, make sure you visit the Plains of Abraham Museum. It’s open every day from 9am to 5pm. You can find more information on the official website.

12. Sample some local French-Canadian cuisine

As you work through your list of things to do in Quebec City in winter, you’re bound to build up quite an appetite! Luckily the local cuisine is hearty and rather gluttonous – perfect after you’ve been out in the cold and need to warm up!

I lived in Canada for six years and spent two of those in Ontario right next to Quebec, so I’ve tried most of the traditional French Canadian delicacies. Here are a few you sample when you’re in Quebec City in winter:

Poutine:

This is a Canadian classic! Although its exact origins are unknown, people think it originated from the Quebec region in the late 1950s. Regardless of whether that’s true or not, one thing is certain – it’s become a symbol of Québécois culture. There are lots of variations now but the classic dish consists of French fries and cheese curds topped with gravy.

Tourtière:

This is Quebec’s version of a meat pie. It’s made with minced beef or pork cooked in spices and baked in flaky pastry. It’s a traditional dish that is usually eaten on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Day but you can try it during the festive season.

Fèves au lard:

I’ll be honest, this one grossed me out a bit when I first heard of it but I have to say, it was actually quite tasty. It literally translates as ‘beans in fat’ (a disgusting thought I know!) and consists of beans seasoned with maple syrup and slow cooked in pork fat. It’s a hearty meal that goes all the way back to the days of pioneers and fur trappers who ate this to keep warm during the cold days. Nowadays restaurants serve it as a side during breakfast or lunch, and usually add other ingredients like bacon. It’s actually quite tasty so you should try it if you get the chance!

13. Or join a food tour to learn more about traditional Québécois dishes

Quebec City has so many great cafes and restaurants to choose from that it can actually be a bit overwhelming! We really wanted to try as many spots as possible on our trip but we only had three days in Quebec City and it was hard to pick where to go. That’s actually why we ended up booking a food tour on our second day. Having a local guide who knows the area and history means you get all the insider knowledge! You can try local dishes and delicacies and find places you wouldn’t have discovered on your own.

I did a lot of research before our trip and finally decided on this food city tour. It ended up being one of the highlights from our trip. Maude, our local guide, was so funny and knowledgeable which made the experience so enjoyable. She taught us a lot about the city’s history as well as the local food scene.

This tour took us to five different tasting locations and included a two-course appetiser, a main meal and a dessert, plus wine and gin, all of which were amazing! The tour normally starts at 11am or 11:30am and lasts for 3 hours so I recommend just having a light breakfast that morning!

14. Soak at a Nordic spa

Without a doubt, relaxing at a Nordic spa has to be one of the top things to do in Quebec City in winter! Strom Nordic Spa is the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. It’s located along the St. Lawrence River and the views alone made us want to go! I mean, is there anything better than soaking in a heated infinity pool as you look out over a snowy winter wonderland? It’s such a magical setting and a lovely thing to do when you’re visiting Quebec City in winter.

The spa has Finnish saunas, essential oil steam rooms, relaxation areas, outdoor whirlpools and a floatation bath with Epsom salt. 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. If you just want access to the baths it’s around $45 CAD. You can add on massages and treatments for an additional fee.

I always 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. The winter weather can be unpredictable so having this flexibility gives me a lot of peace of mind! Buy your tickets here >

15. Watch sunset at the Old Port

Winter sunsets just hit differently don’t you think? I love watching the sun set as the snowy landscape turns from white to pastel pink. There are lots of places to watch the sunset in Quebec City but my favourite was Place des Canotiers at the Old Port. It’s a pretty square overlooking the St. Lawrence River with scenic views 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.

16. Take the ferry across the river to Lévis

Speaking of Lévis, if you have time, I highly recommend taking the ferry over there. It’s only a 12-minute ferry ride and, from the water, you’ll get one of the best views of Quebec City in winter on the way. As someone who travels for photography, I was blown away by this view. Seeing the skyline, snow-covered rooftops and the chateau towering behind was definitely a ‘wow’ moment! This perspective really lets you appreciate how beautiful the city is. It’s also very cool to see the huge chunks of ice in the water as you cross the St. Lawrence River.

The Quebec-Lévis ferry runs all year round and only costs $3.60 CAD each way, making it one of the most affordable winter activities in Quebec City. The ferry leaves Quebec City on the half hour and departs from Lévis on the hour so you could easily do a quick trip. A lot of people catch the ferry, head up to the terrace near the ferry terminal to take some photos of the city, and then come back. However, if you have more time, Lévis is a fun place to explore. Le Corsaire microbrewery is a nice spot for a drink and Quay Paquet is a popular ice skating rink with the most scenic backdrop over the city!

17. Enjoy panoramic views at the Observatoire de la Capitale

Another great viewpoint to check out is the Observatoire de la Capitale. Situated on the 31^st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building, the observatory has panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. This was one of my favourite things to do in Quebec City in winter. I loved looking down at the city blanketed in snow as the sun started to set. Plus it was a nice place to warm up as our hands were very cold from taking photos at this point!

The observatory is open daily and costs $14.75 CAD for adults and $7 CAD for children over 6 years old. I’d aim to spend at least an hour up here to take in the views. There are also some great exhibits and short videos about the history of Quebec.

Like the other Quebec City winter activities I’ve already mentioned, I recommend booking tickets through Get Your Guide as you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The weather is so changeable in Quebec City in winter and you really need a clear, sunny day for the observatory, so having this flexibility is a must. Find tickets here >

18. Learn about the Huron-Wendat Nation on an immersive night walk

I got my Canadian citizenship in 2025 after living in Canada for six years, so learning about the Indigenous history of the places I visit is very important to me. I always try and find local, Indigenous experiences whenever I travel as it’s a great way to learn about the true ancestors of the land. Quebec is home to several First Nations, including the Huron-Wendat Nation. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Quebec City in winter and want to get off the beaten path, go and visit ONWHA’ Lumina. Created in collaboration with artists, writers and community members from the Nation, ONWHA’ Lumina is an enchanting night walk located in Wendake.

The illuminated trail takes you through the forest. Along the way you’ll pass immersive installations inspired by the stories and symbols of the Huron-Wendat Nation. It explores themes such as the cycle of life, passing down knowledge, and the shared connection between all living things.

ONWHA’ Lumina actually takes place throughout the year but is even more magical in winter. Wendat is a 20-minute drive from Quebec City. If you don’t have a car, you can still get there via public transport but it will take about an hour. You can plan your route here.

MORE OUTDOORSY WINTER ACTIVITIES TO TRY

If you’re looking for even more adventurous things to do in Quebec City in winter, here are a few suggestions:

Visit Montmorency Falls

Located just 15 minutes from Old Quebec City, Montmorency Falls are a spectacular sight in winter. 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.

Go cross-country skiing at Jacques-Cartier National Park

If you’re looking to get out into nature, cross-country skiing is a great winter activity to try near Quebec City. Jacques-Cartier National Park, around 30 minutes from the city, is a beautiful place to experience it, with snow-covered forests, frozen rivers and wide-open valleys that feel a world away from the Old Town. The park has a good mix of easy and more challenging trails, and equipment rental is available on site, so you don’t need to bring your own gear. It’s suitable for beginners as well as those wanting more of a workout, and there are also guided options if you’d prefer to try it with a bit of extra support. I didn’t have time to try this on my last trip but I fully intend to give it a go next time!

Have a go at ice canoeing

Ice canoeing is one of the most unique winter activities in Quebec City. It’s actually one of the only places in the world where travellers can try it. This traditional practice dates back to Indigenous communities. It was later adopted by European settlers who quickly realised it was an essential mode of transport in winter to cross the icy St. Lawrence River!

Today, ice canoeing has evolved into an adrenaline-filled winter sport, with professional races and guided experiences for visitors. Tours typically involve learning the basic techniques on land first before heading out onto the river. It’s a physically demanding experience but if you’re looking to try something truly out of the ordinary, this is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime winter adventure!

If you do fancy trying this, Canot à Glace offer guided tours with experienced guides. They’ll kit you out in specialist gear and teach you how to paddle and manoeuvre through the ice. My friend who lives in Quebec has gone a couple of times and recommended this tour with Canot à Glace which includes a Nordic sauna at the end to warm up.

Go Snow Tubing at Village Vacances Valcartier or Tewkesbury

Snow tubing is a very popular winter activity in Canada! I’ve been once and absolutely loved the adrenaline rush. Sadly I didn’t get time to go in Quebec City but I guess it’s a good reason to plan another trip back! A lot of people recommended a day trip to Villages Vacances Valcartier where you can go snow tubing. It’s within driving distance of downtown Quebec City but you will need a car to get there.

PLANNING YOUR WINTER TRIP TO QUEBEC CITY

3 days in Quebec City in winter - Petit Champlain

Winter weather in Quebec City

I spent two winters living in Ontario right next to Quebec, and let me tell you, nothing prepared me for how cold it would be! It was a shock to the system that’s for sure!

In winter, Québec City experiences freezing cold temperatures and snowy conditions. The coldest months are typically December, January and February when the wind-chill can make it feel like -22°C to -27°C.

It obviously varies year to year but here are the average temperatures during the winter months to give you an idea of what to expect:

December: -3°C (26°F) high / -10°C (14°F) low
January: -6°C (20°F) high / -13°C (6°F) low
February: -4°C (24°F) high / -13°C (8°F) low
March: 0.5°C (33°F) high / -8°C (18°F) low

What to pack for Quebec City in winter

As you can see, winter in Quebec City can get really cold. You’ll need to pack appropriately so you can enjoy your trip safely. Make sure you take the following items:

Base layers
Mid-layers
Warm parka
Merino wool socks
Winter waterproof boots
Toque
Gloves
Scarf
Hand warmers

Snow and ice are pretty much a given during the winter months, so you’ll definitely need warm, sturdy footwear with good grip when visiting. I also recommend getting a pair of ice grips to help with walking on the ice. It might sound extreme but the roads and paths can quickly turn into ice rinks making walking very dangerous.

I have a whole guide on what to wear in Quebec City in winter with the exact things I took on my trip. All the clothes and gear in my packing guide are items I personally used when I lived in Canada and highly recommend.

Where to stay in Quebec City

As with most cities, accommodation is more expensive during the festive season and can book out months in advance. If you are planning to visit 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.

If you can, try and stay in Old Quebec close so you can easily walk to all the main attractions. Accommodation here can be more expensive as you’re in the heart of the city but you can usually find some good deals if you book in advance.

We stayed at the Auberge Saint-Antoine during our trip 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) which are both amazing and serve farm-to-fork dishes. And there’s even a cinema room if you want an epic movie night!

Need more ideas? Check out my full post on the best hotels in Quebec City for more lovely places to stay.

How to get to Quebec City

By Train

As I was living in Ottawa, I took the train to Quebec City. It was so scenic with all the snow! Via Rail operates train services to Quebec City from various Canadian cities, making it a very convenient way to get there. Since you don’t really need a car to explore Quebec City, I highly recommend travelling by train if you can so you don’t have to worry about road conditions.

By Air

Quebec City has its own international airport – Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB). Flying to Quebec City is a great option as the 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

You don’t need a car to get to most attractions but if you want to venture further afield it can be helpful. The highways and roads are well-maintained all-year round; however, winter weather can result in closures and delays. Always check Ontario 511 and Quebec 511 for the latest information before setting off.

I always book my hire cars through DiscoverCars. They’re the Skyscanner for car rentals and allow you to compare prices between all the different car rental companies in a given location. I’ve used them in 5 different countries now and have never had any issues with them. Check out DiscoverCars’ options in Quebec City here.

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Quebec City in winter

As you can see, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in winter in Quebec City. I hope my guide gives you some ideas on how to plan your own trip. If you have any questions or need more suggestions on what to do in Quebec City in winter, ask away in the comments!

Here are some more guides to help you plan your winter trip to Quebec City: