Québec City is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in North America — a UNESCO World Heritage site that is reputed to be the closest thing to a European city without crossing the Atlantic. Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, it is the only fortified city in North America north of Mexico, and its cobblestone streets, 17th-century stone buildings, magnificent château hotel, and sweeping St. Lawrence River views give it a character unlike any other city on the continent.
The city is divided into two distinct areas — the Upper Town (Haute-Ville), perched dramatically atop the Cap Diamant cliffs with its city walls, the Château Frontenac, and the Plains of Abraham; and the Lower Town (Basse-Ville), the older of the two, sitting at water level with the 17th-century buildings of Place-Royale and the charming boutiques of the Petit-Champlain district. Galleries, museums, world-class restaurants, and excellent shopping are all within easy walking distance of the cruise terminals.
Québec City is primarily French-speaking — a genuine French city in North America, with French as the predominant language of daily life, menus, and signage. Most people in tourist areas speak some English, but a few words of French are warmly appreciated.
Know Before You Go
Hot Tip
Quebec City, Quebec – Quick Facts
Where You Dock in Quebec City, Quebec
Pier locations and what's available at each terminal.
Québec City has two cruise terminals — your walking distance to Old Québec will depend on which one your ship uses:
⚓ Wharf 20/21 — Ross Gaudreault Cruise Terminal
84 Dalhousie Street — the main cruise terminal in past seasons. Located within walking distance of the Old Lower City and the Petit-Champlain district. The most conveniently positioned terminal for independent exploration on foot.
⚓ Wharf 30 — New Terminal
Located off Rue Abraham-Martin on Rue de l'Estuaire — further from Old Québec than Wharf 20/21. A shuttle service is available for passengers to reach the historic city center. Check with your cruise line for shuttle details and timing.
Getting Around Quebec City, Quebec
Transportation options once you're ashore.
🚶 Walking
The best way to experience Old Québec — the major sights, shops, cafes, galleries, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance of Wharf 20/21. Parts of the old city have cobblestone streets that can be challenging for those with mobility concerns. The steep hill between Lower Town (at water level) and Upper Town requires either climbing the stairs, taking a taxi, or using the Funiculaire.
🚡 Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec
The beloved cable car connecting Lower Town (near Petit-Champlain) to Upper Town (near the Château Frontenac) — $2 CAD cash each way. The views of the St. Lawrence River and Lower Town rooftops during the ascent are extraordinary. Highly recommended for both the views and the convenience — particularly for those with mobility concerns.
🚕 Taxis
Plentiful in Québec City and operate on a metered system. A taxi is the most comfortable way to get up the hill to Upper Town if you prefer not to use the Funiculaire. Several taxi companies offer narrated city tours for $65–$85 per car — book in advance. Both Uber and local taxi apps operate in the city.
🚗 Car Rental
Not recommended for exploring the city center — Old Québec's streets are narrow, many are one-way, and they twist in unexpected directions. Parking is difficult particularly during peak tourist season (late spring through fall). Useful only for those wanting to explore the wider Québec region beyond the city.
Things To Do in Quebec City, Quebec
Make the most of your time ashore.
🎯 Québec City's historic core is one of the most walkable and rewarding port day destinations in North America:
Old Québec — Upper & Lower Town — The UNESCO World Heritage core of the city. Upper Town (Haute-Ville) is the only walled city in North America north of Mexico — 4.6 miles of walls and gates to explore, crowned by the iconic Château Frontenac (visit by horse-drawn carriage for the full effect — one of the most photographed hotels in the world). Lower Town (Basse-Ville) is older, with shops and restaurants in 17th-century stone buildings. Connect the two by Funiculaire ($2 CAD) for the best views.
Terrasse Dufferin — The sweeping boardwalk built in 1879 fronting the Château Frontenac — the finest viewpoint in the city, looking over the St. Lawrence River, the rooftops of Lower Town, and the ships coming into the harbor. Street musicians perform throughout the summer. A natural stopping point between Upper Town sightseeing and the Plains of Abraham.
Plains of Abraham — Battlefields Park — The site of the famous 1759 battle between British and French forces that determined the future of Canada. Today this magnificent park is the green heart of the city — its summer activities, narrated bus tours, and stunning natural beauty make it one of the most popular local attractions. The tour covers the Citadel, Joan of Arc Gardens, the barracks, and the old jail.
Place-Royale — The lively historic square in Lower Town where Samuel de Champlain founded Québec in 1608 — the birthplace of French civilization in North America. Visit the Place-Royale Museum to experience life in "New France" in the early 1600s. The Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church on the square is the oldest stone church in North America, built in 1688. The statue of Louis XIV and the surrounding café terraces complete a scene that feels genuinely 17th-century.
Petit-Champlain District — What began in the early 1600s as a small port village is now one of the most visited tourist destinations in Québec. Narrow cobblestone streets flanked by 18th and 19th-century stone buildings house world-class restaurants, artisan boutiques, and charming cafes. See the restored 18th-century interiors of Maison Chevalier. The most photogenic and enjoyable walking area in the city — directly accessible from Wharf 20/21.
Beaches & Outdoors in Quebec City, Quebec
The best beaches, parks, and outdoor experiences for cruise passengers.
Plains of Abraham — Battlefields Park
The grand public park at the heart of Upper Town — more like New York's Central Park than a beach, but the St. Lawrence River views from the cliff edge are spectacular. Walking paths, historic fortifications, gardens, and summer activities make this the most beautiful outdoor space in the city. The site of the decisive 1759 British-French battle that shaped Canadian history.
Terrasse Dufferin
The magnificent 1879 boardwalk fronting the Château Frontenac with panoramic views over the St. Lawrence River and the Lower Town rooftops below. Street musicians, people-watching, and the most iconic views in Québec. Walking distance from the Upper Town and the logical endpoint of a Funiculaire ascent from Lower Town.
Île d'Orléans
A 20-minute drive from the city — a rural island in the St. Lawrence River famous for strawberries, maple syrup, artisan cheese, and wine. The island's pastoral scenery and farmhouse character is a completely different experience from the city. Best explored by rental car or organized excursion.
Shopping in Quebec City, Quebec
Where to shop and what to look for.
🛍️ Shopping in Québec City ranges from tacky souvenir stalls to extraordinary artisanal craft boutiques — the best shopping is in Petit-Champlain and along Rue Saint-Jean:
Petit-Champlain District
The most charming shopping area in Québec City — narrow cobblestone streets in Lower Town lined with artisan boutiques, Quebec craft galleries, clothing designers, jewelers, and specialty food shops in 17th and 18th-century stone buildings. The most distinctive and authentically Québécois shopping experience in the city. Walking distance from Wharf 20/21.
Rue Saint-Jean — Upper Town
The main commercial artery of Upper Town within the city walls — a vibrant mix of boutiques, bookshops, specialty food stores, outdoor terraces, and cafes. A lively and authentic street that serves both tourists and locals. Accessible via the Funiculaire from Lower Town.
What to Buy
Maple products — Québec produces over 70% of the world's maple syrup. Buy maple syrup, maple butter, and maple candy from local producers for exceptional quality. Ice cider (cidre de glace) — a uniquely Québécois product made from apples frozen on the tree. Inuit and First Nations art — soapstone carvings, prints, and jewelry from indigenous artists. Québécois wool goods — hand-knitted sweaters and woolens in classic Canadian patterns. Local spirits — Québec craft gin and whisky have exploded in quality in recent years.
See a full list of shopping districts and malls in Québec City →
Top Tours & Shore Excursions
Book before you board for best availability and pricing.
Old Quebec City Walking Tour
Explore the cobblestone streets and historic fortifications of Old Quebec City — a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of...
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Visit the spectacular Montmorency Falls — taller than Niagara — and the stunning Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré on t...
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Cruise the St. Lawrence River in search of beluga, minke, and humpback whales. One of the world's best whale watching de...
Book This Tour →Quebec City, Quebec – FAQ
Common questions from cruise passengers.
What is Quebec City known for?
Quebec City is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in North America. Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — a perfectly preserved walled city with 400 years of French history, the iconic Château Frontenac, cobblestone streets, and a distinctly European atmosphere.
Do I need to speak French in Quebec City?
French is the dominant language but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels. Most signs are in French only. Learning a few basic French phrases is appreciated by locals.
Can I walk from the Quebec City cruise terminal?
Yes — the cruise terminal is right at the base of Old Quebec. The Lower Town (Vieux-Port) is steps away, and the funicular connects to the Upper Town (the Château Frontenac area) in minutes.
What is the Château Frontenac?
The Château Frontenac is a grand railway hotel built in 1893 that dominates Quebec City's skyline. It's consistently ranked as one of the most photographed hotels in the world and is a National Historic Site of Canada.
Cruise Passenger Tips & Photos
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