Find cheap flights to Québec City

One of the most charming cities in North America, the cobbled streets and winding alleys of Québec City lend it a European ambience. Visitors flock here during both the summer and winter months to attend the many festivals and events, so it can be difficult and costly to book flights and accommodation. In summer, you can bask in warm temperatures of 72 – 77 degrees Fahrenheit, but if you come during winter, pack your parka! The average daily high temperatures range from 17 – 23 degrees Fahrenheit. During spring, moderate temperatures and fewer tourists might offer the opportunity to find cheap flights to Québec City and good-value accommodation, and the same can be said for the fall months. During the fall, you will also enjoy spectacular autumnal displays of color on the deciduous trees.

The best way to get around Québec City is on foot. Within the walls of Old Québec, almost all of the attractions are within walking distance. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the area is hilly and many of the streets are cobbled. If you get tired, the city’s Métrobus will carry you around the historic area on 4 different routes. Don’t miss taking a ride on the funicular, a steep railway connecting Haute-Ville (Upper Town) and Basse-Ville (Lower Town). If you have rented a car, it may be advisable to park it while in the city, the narrow busy streets can be difficult to navigate, and parking is scarce. Save your car for trips outside the downtown area.

Buses

Québec City’s RTC Metrobus offers a break for tired feet and respite from the cold if you visit during the winter. The 4 routes run throughout Old Québec City, stopping near many of the most popular attractions. The fare is $2.90 CAD, or you may purchase a day pass, an unlimited weekend pass, or a 5-day pass. Buses stop every 10 to 15 minutes.

Taxis

Taxis are plentiful in the city and a good option for Québec City transportation. You can hail one on the street, but you may have better luck if you head to a designated taxi stand. The meter starts at $3.59 CAD, and each extra 0.6 mile costs $1.76 CAD.

Citizens of the United States do not need a visa to enter Canada, but need to show proof of citizenship or identity, both of which can be done by showing your passport. For foreign nationals, please check the Government of Canada website.

Things to do and places of interest in Québec City

This hilltop city sits on a rocky spur alongside the St. Lawrence river. Old Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the only fortified city north of Mexico. Here are some sights to see when you travel to Québec City.

• Consider staying at, or at least visiting the iconic Hotel Frontenac. This 1894-dated hotel was built by the Canadian Pacific Railway and epitomizes the term ‘grand’. It’s vantage point above the Quartier Petit-Champlain and Basse-Ville provides excellent views of the St. Lawrence River.
• Wander through a few of the city’s magnificent museums, such as the Musée des Ursulines de Québec, Morrin Centre, The Fort Museum, the Musée du Monastère des Augustines, the Place Royal Museum and the Musée de la Civilisation.
• Stroll around the scenic Quartier Petit-Champlain. This historic, pedestrian-only neighborhood was once the capital of New France, and now contains fine restaurants and artisan boutiques.
• Cross the St. Lawrence river aboard the Québec-Levis Ferry to view the city’s picturesque skyline. You can find the ferry dock in Lower Town, a short walk from the Quartier Petit-Champlain and Place Royale.
• History buffs should visit the Plains of Abraham, the site of a fierce battle in 1759 when the British General Wolfe won Québec City from French General Montcalm.
• During late January and into February, the city celebrates the winter season with the Carnaval de Québec. First held in 1894, Carnaval features dog sled races, canoe races on the (often frozen) St. Lawrence River, skating, sledding, family oriented games, dancing, and parades.

Tips and tricks for visiting Québec City

If you visit during the winter, be prepared! The temperatures can plummet to -40 degrees Fahrenheit, and if you aren’t dressed properly for it, frostbite is a real danger.

The Québecois speak French and are fiercely proud of their language. Almost all are willing and able to converse with you in English, but any effort on your part to use even a smattering of French will be warmly welcomed.