Discover the magic of a Quebec City winter! Find out what to see and do: slide at Château Frontenac, the Ice Hotel, Winter Carnival, Petit Champlain is cute as a button. Here’s your complete rundown of what to do in Quebec City during the winter.
Quebec City in winter is more than a destination — it’s a living, breathing fairytale. Visualize cobblestone streets dusted with fresh snow, historic buildings twinkling beneath holiday lights and the brisk, invigorating air redolent with the aroma of woodsmoke and maple. This isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience that turns the ordinary into extraordinary! Are you with me on the “things to do in Quebec City in winter” or are you one of those who believes that snow and cold weather is not for you? Time to fall in love with a city that actually welcomes the winter about!
With its iconic castle-like hotel, Chateau Frontenac, looming large over the frozen St. Lawrence River, to its quaint shopping district, Petit Champlain, Quebec City melds European elegance with North American grit when colder temperatures hit. With this thorough guide you won't miss out on any hidden gem or must-see highlight, and it'll be an unforgettable trip.
City life tends to take a nap when the temperature plummets, but Quebec City hibernates with a bang. The snow adds that extra special sparkle to what is an already beautiful location, making it the ideal setting for romance, fun and culture. The lack of summer crowds typically provides a more intimate and genuine experience, for you to soak in the feeling of the city.
The answer, if you're thinking "quebec city attractions winter," is that some of the best things to do in quebec city winter—or summer, for that matter—are transformed into special winter options with activities and events that you simply won't find during any other season.
Let’s get to the heart of what makes Quebec City a winter wonderland like no other.
Old Quebec is beautiful any time of year (and designated a Unesco World Heritage site) but in winter it’s quite otherworldly. The tight, winding streets, centuries-old stone buildings and fortress-like walls are made all the more atmospheric under a cover of snow. This is where every visitor looking for “what to do in Quebec City in winter” should begin.
WALK ALONG THE FORTIFIED WALLS: You can almost sense the convivial spirits of Quebec’s earliest traders as you traverse the only remaining fortified city walls north of Mexico, looking out over a snow-dusted urban expanse and an ice-bound St. Lawrence River.
See Place Royale: This square, in which Quebec City was founded, looks delightful with its festive lights and the iconic Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church even grander.
Explore Rue du Petit Champlain: Often considered to be one of the most charming streets in Canada, this pedestrian street is packed with one-of-a-kind boutiques, art galleries and snug bistros. In winter, it’s lit up with twinkling lights — a truly magic sight.
Slip back in time at the outdoor rink on pl. D'Youville, just outside the city walls; it's a classic winter experience. In the midst of it all is a colorful hive of action, flanked by historic buildings and livened with music. This is one of the top contenders for “quebec city what to do in winter” for families and couples alike. Rentals are available on site.
Lucky you if your visit is in late January or early February! The Quebec Winter Carnival is considered one of the largest winter festivals in the world and one of the top “things to do in Quebec City in winter.” The good-time snowball rolls with the annual appearance of Bonhomme Carnaval, king of winter’s slammin’ ice canoe races on the St. Lawrence, flamboyant night parades, carved-ice masterworks and all-night outdoor blowouts. It’s a cultural experience you won’t forget and one of the most “things to do quebec city winter” that there is.
Even if you are not staying there overnight, a visit to the historic Château Frontenac is necessary. This stately hotel is a Quebec City institution and when the snow falls, it looks regal. You could visit its lavish lobby, eat a gourmet meal with breathtaking views or simply marvel at its structure against the backdrop of Dufferin Terrace.
For an exciting and historical ‘things to do in Quebec in winter’ make your way over to Dufferin Terrace, beside the Château Frontenac. The Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide – Since 1884. These wooden toboggans get to speeds of 70km/hr and have some pretty cool views of the city and river. It’s so much fun and a favorite “quebec city attractions winter” activity to do with kids, both young and old!
Outside of downtown Quebec City, not too far away by car, is something altogether different: the Hôtel de Glace, a testament to what can be done with ice and snow when you’ve got an open imagination. Reconstructed each winter with a fresh theme, this ephemeral hotel is adorned with impressive ice sculptures, themed suites and an ice bar. You can take a tour of the hotel, sip a cocktail from an ice glass or even stay in one of their stylish (and chilly!) night. Unique “quebec city what to do in winter” content, no doubt.
Stunning in every season, Montmorency Falls are particularly impressive in winter. The mighty waterfall edges partially freeze, creating stunning ice formations called a “sugar loaf.” You can hop in the cable car for an amazing view from above, stroll across a suspension bridge right over the falls or even give ice climbing a go if you’re really feeling brave. The park is not overcrowded in the winter season, making it a peaceful and magnificent journey.
Quebecois comfort food, and tuck into some hearty goodness. Start with a steaming bowl of French onion soup, indulge in poutine (fries with cheese curds and gravy) or taste tourtière (meat pie). And don’t miss the opportunity to taste maple taffy on snow, a sweet you’ll encounter all over, especially at the carnival.
Maple Delights: Enjoy a traditional meal — usually with live folk music — at a sugar shack (called cabane à sucre).
Cuddle up at a Café: Stop in to one of the lovely cafes like those gracing Old Quebec for a chocolat chaud or café au lait.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing in Quebec City and Area Expect to find fantastic cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities around Quebec City.
Plains of Abraham (Plaines d’Abraham): The site of one of the city’s great historic battles borders downtown, and in winter it becomes a winter wonderland with well-groomed trails made for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Rentals are available. It’s definitely one of the “things to do in Quebec in winter” accessible options on your list for any active travelers.
Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier: Just a short drive away, this stunning national park has more challenging trails and white landscapes for both activities.
If you’re in town during late November or December, the German Christmas Market adds a little extra pick-me-up to your “things to do in Quebec City in winter” list. Located in the heart of Old Quebec, a winding maze awaits with quaint wooden booths selling local crafts and traditional German delicacies as well as mulled wine and cute decorations. The vibe is seriously magical, and it’s impossible not to feel festive.
Linking the Haute-Ville and Basse-Ville of Old Quebec, the funicular provides not only transportation but views, especially when the city is blanketed in snow. It’s a speedy and fun way to move between levels and offers fantastic views for photographs.
For something more indoor, try the National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec, located on the Plains of Abraham and home to an extensive collection of Quebec art dating from the 17th century. It’s a really great few hours of culture + warm.
In addition to the Quebec Winter Carnival, be on the lookout for other local events and festivals that appear throughout these colder months. From light shows to concerts, Quebec City’s cultural scene continues on.
For a real taste of Canadian winter, try a dog-sled tour – it's available just beyond the city. Numerous operators provide half-day or full-day experiences, where you can learn about mushing and slide through snow-covered treescapes. This is what we call “things to do in Quebec in winter“.
This majestic basilica, designated a National Historic Site of Canada, is glorious in any season but its serene and austere beauty takes on deep spiritual meaning against the cold of winter. Come in to marvel at the church’s gorgeous architecture and stained-glass windows, and enjoy a moment of peaceful reflection away from the cold air.
To ensure you enjoy your “things to do in Quebec City in winter” time as much as possible, be sure not to forget these tips:
Layered dressing is the secret to winter travelling in Quebec. Temperatures can vary, and you’ll be transitioning from the indoors to outside. Think thermal base layers, a warm mid-layer (fleece or wool), waterproof and windproof outer shell, a warm hat, gloves or mittens and waterproof winter boots with good grip.
Cold air can also be quite dry. Drink plenty of water.
If visiting during the Quebec Winter Carnival or the holidays, destinations hotels are quickly booked.
You’ll get used to it! Winter doesn’t deter Quebecers; they own it. Go open-minded and ready to experience adventure.
Old Quebec is quite walkable, but watch out for icy sidewalks. You can take taxis and public buses, and many of the major sights are reachable. Think about taking the city’s funicular, which joins the Upper and Lower Towns.
When comparing “things to do in Quebec City in winter” with other places, Quebec City literally will always come up as one of the very first ones. It's that special mix of old-world charm, historical importance, live-in-the-moment culture and sincere embrace of the cold season. It’s not just that the city is full of things to do, but it has an atmosphere, a vibe, that feeling you’re trying to take back home with you and carry like a secret handshake long after the snow has melted.
From the serene loveliness of a snowy morning walk through Petit Champlain to the riotous fun of Winter Carnival, every moment in Quebec City in winter is infused with magic. It is a place where history whispers from every stone, and the chill in the air seems to reanimate the soul.
Not a destination, Quebec City in winter is an invitation to step into a fairytale. From historical explorations and adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities to curled-up culinary feasts and international festivals, “things to do in Quebec City in winter” are sure going make your stay truly remarkable.
Whether you’re flying down a historic toboggan run, gazing at ice sculptures or just sipping hot chocolate in a cozy café, you’ll get why so many people fall for Quebec City when it’s blanketed in snow. So, slip into some extra layers or wrap yourself in a warm blanket, embrace the frosty enchantment and get ready to make memories in one of the loveliest winter cities on earth. Your dream winter escape is Quebec City!
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