The holiday season is just around the corner, and the excitement is already building, making it the perfect time to plan a quick winter getaway to experience everything the season has to offer. And what better place to spend the holidays in Canada than Quebec City?
With its cobblestone streets dusted with shimmering snow and historic buildings adorned with twinkling lights, Quebec City is a city truly built for a winter getaway. Here’s how to spend 48 hours in one of the country’s best winter destinations.
Day 1
Morning
Start your morning in Old Quebec with a warm drink and pastry from Cafe La Maison Smith, one of the top-rated coffee spots in the city. As you enjoy your breakfast, stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful colonial architecture. It’s a popular area to explore, and you can even book a guided tour if you want to learn more about the city’s history.
A few must-see spots in the area include:
- Museum of Civilization – Escape the chilly weather at this museum, which showcases Quebec’s history and culture. With a variety of interactive exhibits and fascinating artifacts, it’s an engaging activity for visitors of all ages.
- Petit-Champlain District – A historic and picturesque neighborhood, famous for its European-style architecture, boutique shops, cafes, and festive decorations during the winter months.
Afternoon
After a relaxing morning, enjoy lunch at La Buche, a restaurant serving traditional Québécois cuisine, including local specialties such as pea soup, maple desserts, and delicious grilled cheese sandwiches.
Around noon, the Christmas Markets start to come alive, making it the perfect time to explore. Head to the German Christmas Market: Marché de Noël Allemand, where you can savour festive treats like pretzels, chocolates, and jams. Immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere with choirs, giant Christmas puppets, and alphorn performances. You can even visit Santa in his castle at Place d’Armes for a truly magical experience.
After the market, warm up with a hot chocolate stop in Upper Town, the heart of Old Quebec’s historic and festive atmosphere. Stroll along Rue Saint-Jean, admire the wreaths and festive displays, and browse the artisan stores for souvenirs and local treats.
Evening
As the sun sets, visit Place Royale, the birthplace of Quebec City. This historic square resembles a European village, with stone buildings, a large Christmas tree, and festive lights and decorations during the holiday season.
Just a short walk away is Dufferin Terrace, a scenic boardwalk overlooking the St. Lawrence River with stunning views of the surrounding city. During the winter season, the terrace is covered in snow, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll and memorable photos. These spots are ideal for a relaxing pre-dinner walk, allowing you to soak in the holiday spirits before sitting down for a meal.
For dinner, visit Le Lapin Sauté for a cozy, rustic atmosphere, serving Quebecois comfort foods like poutine, rabbit, and hearty stews. Alternatively, try Le Continental for a classic French fine dining experience. The restaurant features table-side service, with flambéed dishes, cheese platters, and filet mignon.
Day 2
Morning
Start your day at the artisan bakery Café-Boulangerie Paillard, known for its French pastries like chocolate twists and éclairs. They also offer cakes and savoury options such as ham-and-cheese croissant sandwiches. Begin your adventures by visiting the Parliament Building in Quebec City for a guided tour to explore the history, architecture, and workings of Quebec’s provincial government.
Afterwards, head out of the city to Montmorency Falls to admire the stunning views of frozen waterfalls and winter scenery. When the fall freezes, it forms a large ice cone known as the Sugarloaf at the base, creating a unique sight. Visitors can stroll along the trails, which feature multiple viewing platforms providing different perspectives of the 83-meter-high falls. You can also walk across the suspension bridge at the top of the falls, providing a thrilling backdrop for photos. In winter, the falls and the surrounding landscape are especially snowy and magical.
Afternoon
After returning to the city, enjoy a meal at Bello Ristorante, which serves Italian food with a hint of Québécois taste. Popular dishes include pesto pasta, bolognese, and carbonara.
Then, book a horse-drawn carriage ride for a scenic tour of Old Quebec, offering a different experience than a walking tour. The cozy blankets provided will keep you warm as the carriage rides through snow-covered streets and charming historic neighborhoods.
Following the relaxing carriage ride, recharge your energy levels with a snowshoeing adventure. Rentals and protective gear are available at the Plains of Abraham Museum. Explore the snow-covered trails and parks while taking in the crisp winter air and stunning views.
Evening
After energizing for the day, head over to Place D’Youville, a public ice skating rink in the heart of Old Quebec with rentals on site. Ice skating here is a classic winter activity that’s fun for everyone. The rink is decorated with lights and festive decorations, and music plays, creating an amazing holiday atmosphere. Around the rink, several stalls serve delicious hot chocolate, a cozy, warm treat after a fun session of skating.
Finish the night at Ciel! Bistro Bar, a rotating restaurant on the 28th floor of the Hôtel Le Concorde. The restaurant offers 360-degree panoramic views of Quebec City’s skyline, the St. Lawrence River, and the Plains of Abraham. They serve French and Quebecois-inspired dishes like Atlantic salmon, charcuterie platters, and crème brûlée. The view during the holidays is especially breathtaking with twinkling lights and decorated streets. It is truly a unique experience to enjoy dinner while slowly rotating above the city, and a memorable way to conclude your winter trip in Quebec City.
The Ultimate Winter Escape
Spending 48 hours in Quebec City for a winter getaway offers a fun-filled experience, with plenty to see, taste, and do. Be sure to wear layers and dress warmly for the winter weather. Bring comfortable shoes, gloves, and a scarf so you can enjoy the city’s festivities without catching a cold.
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