5 Minute Tourist

Our trip to Quebec began with a seamless layover in Toronto. It was hands down the easiest customs experience we’ve ever had. Quick, efficient, and surprisingly stress-free, which set the perfect tone for the adventure ahead.

We chose to stay near Old Quebec at the Quebec City Marriott Downtown. It was very convenient to the old part of the city, which felt like stepping into a charming European town. If you’re a history buff or simply love a good stroll through scenic streets, Old Quebec is perfect. The area is packed with shops, cozy cafés, and impressive landmarks that date back centuries.

Food was a highlight of our trip. On our first day, we dove into Quebec’s signature dish: poutine at Le Chic Shack. As I don’t eat beef or pork, I’ve never been able to try it. Le Chic Shack had vegan gravy. If you’ve never had poutine it’s a rich and comforting mix of crispy potatoes topped with fresh cheese curds smothered in gravy. We treated ourselves to ice cream from Cows. This spot is known for its creamy texture and fun, unique flavors. Mary’s Popcorn was a perfect snack, the maple pecan was excellent! We even tried maple water which was surprisingly good!

A must-do while in Old Quebec is visiting the iconic Château Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world. This grand castle overlooks the St. Lawrence River and offers a luxurious afternoon tea experience. The tea was very good but the variety of sandwiches was very different from an English afternoon tea. The views, live music, and atmosphere are incredible.

If you love pastries, don’t miss Paillard. We had breakfast there and were blown away by the croissants and other French treats. Another great place to grab breakfast is La Buchette, where we had the best French toast! 

We ventured out of the city to see the breathtaking Montmorency Falls. At 83 meters tall, it’s even higher than Niagara Falls. I highly recommend taking the cable car to the top for stunning views of the surrounding area and then walking down.

We stopped at Érablière Godbout in the New Grand Market, a charming maple shop where we stocked up on maple syrup and other local maple goodies. The market itself is worth a visit for fresh produce, crafts, and regional specialties.

For shopping, the Petit Champlain is the place to be. This quaint neighborhood is filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops. The atmosphere is picture-perfect, especially with its winding streets and beautifully preserved buildings.

Three days was a perfect amount of time to see all the city highlights.

Language: Quebec is a French-speaking province, but many people, especially in tourist areas like Old Quebec and Montreal, are bilingual and speak English. Learning a few basic French phrases can still enhance your experience.

Weather: Quebec has four distinct seasons, and winters can be quite cold and snowy. If you’re visiting between November and March, be sure to pack warm clothing!

Currency: Quebec uses the Canadian dollar (CAD), and most places accept credit cards. Tipping is customary, with 15-20% being standard at restaurants.

History: Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with over 400 years of history. Walking through the streets, you can feel the blend of French and Canadian culture that defines the region.

Transportation: Old Quebec is very walkable if you are comfortable with hills. If you plan to explore areas like Montmorency Falls, renting a car or joining a tour can make travel easier. Uber is also widely available in the city.