Quebec City, Canada
Welcome to Quebec City, a port that feels like a European fairytale nestled in the heart of French Canada. As a crown jewel of Canada/New England itineraries, it attracts major lines such as Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises. Passengers are captivated by its historic stone walls, cobblestone streets, and the palpable sense of history that makes it a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stepping off the ship here is like stepping back in time, offering an immersive cultural experience unlike any other port in North America.
Most of Quebec City's top attractions are within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the port. A must-do is exploring Old Quebec, the fortified historic district, with its Upper and Lower Towns. Dominating the skyline is the iconic Château Frontenac, a grand hotel that is one of the most photographed in the world and worth visiting even from the outside. For a dose of history and green space, wander through the Plains of Abraham, the site of a pivotal 1759 battle. Just outside the city, the majestic Montmorency Falls are even taller than Niagara Falls and accessible via a short bus or taxi ride.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
A popular and beautiful excursion is a trip to Montmorency Falls Park, located about 15 minutes by car from the cruise terminal, where you can take a cable car to the top for stunning views. Another fantastic option is exploring the pastoral beauty of Île d'Orléans, an island in the St. Lawrence River known for its wineries, farms, and chocolate shops, located about a 20-minute drive away. For those interested in religious history, the impressive Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine, a magnificent basilica and major Catholic pilgrimage site, is approximately 30 minutes from the port.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The cruise port in Quebec City offers one of the most convenient locations imaginable. Ships dock at the Ross Gaudrault Cruise Terminal (Terminal 22) right at the base of Old Quebec's Lower Town (Basse-Ville). From the terminal, it is a short, flat walk to the charming streets, shops, and restaurants of the Petit Champlain district. Passengers can easily explore the entire historic area on foot, though the walk up to the Upper Town is steep. Fortunately, the Funicular is nearby to assist with the climb. No tenders or shuttles are required to reach the heart of the city.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). While some tourist-focused shops may accept US Dollars, the exchange rate will not be favorable, so using local currency is highly recommended. Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in almost all shops, restaurants, and attractions. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city for withdrawing Canadian Dollars.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Quebec City is considered a very safe destination for tourists. The crime rate is low, and it is generally safe to walk around, even in the evening, within the main tourist areas of Old Quebec. As in any city, it is wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your personal belongings, particularly in crowded places. Exploring independently is very common and highly recommended due to the city's compact and pedestrian-friendly nature.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The primary cruise season runs from late spring through fall. Summer months (June to August) are generally pleasant and warm, with average high temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F). September and October are popular for fall foliage cruises, featuring cooler, crisp weather and spectacular colors, with highs from 10-18°C (50-65°F). Rain is possible any time of year, so packing layers, including a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes, is always the best strategy.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Quebec City's historic center is extremely walkable, and this is the best way to explore. To travel between the Lower Town (where the port is) and the Upper Town, you can take the steep staircases or use the convenient Funicular. For destinations further afield, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available near the port. The local public bus system, Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC), is efficient for reaching attractions outside the old city walls.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The best shopping is found within the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec. The Quartier Petit Champlain in the Lower Town is famous for its charming, one-of-a-kind boutiques, art galleries, and artisan shops. Look for local specialties such as maple syrup products, ice cider, locally made clothing, and indigenous art. Rue Saint-Jean in the Upper Town offers a mix of souvenir shops and more contemporary stores. Prices are generally fixed, and bargaining is not a common practice in retail stores.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Experience Old Québec on a private walking tour tailored completely to your interests and pace. Your dedicated guide will bring the city's history to life as you discover landmarks, charming streets, and impressive fortifications. Enjoy a truly personalized journey, as your guide adapts the tour for more photo stops or deeper historical insights.
Discover the charm of Old Quebec on a 2-hour walking tour led by a passionate local guide. This immersive journey takes you inside the historic fortifications to visit landmarks like the Château Frontenac and Place Royale. The well-paced itinerary balances famous sites with hidden gems and conveniently ends in Lower Town so you can continue exploring on your own.
Embark on a unique walking tour that connects Quebec’s history to world events, nature, and geography. Your guide will describe how the sub-arctic climate has shaped the city’s culture and architecture while you explore the UNESCO World Heritage site. This tour also provides insights into the current economic and political realities of Quebec.
Enjoy a private, 4-hour guided city tour in a comfortable minivan for up to six passengers. This fully customizable tour takes you through Old Quebec's upper and lower towns. You also have the option to visit the majestic Montmorency Falls for a truly personalized experience.
Arrange a professional private chauffeur service for a safe and relaxing transfer to your destination. Avoid waiting in lines and enjoy a comfortable ride in a clean, recent vehicle with a bilingual driver who knows the city well. This convenient service is available 24/7 to suit your schedule.
Make the most of your time ashore with this flexible and personalized private walking tour of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A local guide will bring the city’s history to life as you explore impressive fortifications, historic buildings, and charming narrow streets. The tour is paced comfortably and tailored to your group for a perfect shore excursion experience.
Discover Quebec City at your own pace with a full-day bike rental, available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Choose from a variety of bike models and sizes, and either explore freely or follow a provided self-guided itinerary on your phone. The local team is available to suggest routes, and you can book in advance to guarantee availability.
Get a perfect overview of the city on this walking tour designed for first-time visitors, which includes a funicular ride. Stroll the charming streets of Old Quebec’s Upper and Lower Towns, visiting top attractions like the Château Frontenac and Place Royale. Your guide will enrich the experience with engaging stories, providing useful information along the way.
Experience Old Quebec with an acclaimed, humorous walking tour led by a certified local guide with nine years of experience. Discover the city's rich history and well-kept secrets in a fun-fact-filled manner. This Traveller's Choice 2024 tour allows you to pay what you feel the experience was worth at the end.
Experience the charming sites of Quebec City by foot on this 2.5-hour private walking tour. A knowledgeable local guide will provide interesting commentary as you visit landmarks like Place Royale and the famous Chateau Frontenac. This tour is fully customizable, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to your personal interests.
Join a knowledgeable licensed guide for a culinary adventure through Old Quebec’s diverse food scene at night. Without waiting in line, you will dine around the city's best restaurants to savor must-have dishes. Explore the city’s beauty under the streetlights and enjoy hearing insiders' untold stories for a memorable evening.
Indulge in a high-end gourmet tour that combines culinary discovery with the history of Old Quebec. Accompanied by a certified guide, you'll enjoy a five-course meal spread across favorite local restaurants, featuring dishes inspired by regional traditions. This experience is elevated with selected wine pairings included to complement your appetizers, main courses, and dessert.
Visit the magnificent Montmorency Falls, a natural wonder higher than Niagara Falls, with an experienced and passionate guide. The scenic ride to the falls includes views of the Saint Lawrence River and Île d’Orléans. Once there, you can explore on foot and walk across the suspension bridge for prime views of the roaring waterfall.
Embark on a unique nature hike accompanied by intelligent and affectionate packing goats. Discover the beautiful Quebec forest, abundant wildlife, and a massive beaver dam on this memorable outing. Your experience is complete with a shepherd dog demonstration and fresh, homemade snacks.
Discover Quebec City’s iconic treasures and well-kept secrets on a private tour tailored to your interests. Travel in the comfort of a premium private vehicle as your passionate local guide shares captivating anecdotes. Your personalized itinerary can focus on history, architecture, or gastronomy, and includes hotel pickup for a seamless experience.
Explore Quebec's Lower Town and its surroundings on this fantastic historical bike tour. Your qualified guide will lead you past hidden gems and must-see sites like Place Royale, along the Saint Charles River, and through unique artistic neighborhoods. The tour also includes a stop at the “Grand Marché,” giving you a chance to mingle with local artisan producers.
Enjoy a hassle-free, private transfer from the Quebec City airport directly to your hotel. Your professional, bilingual chauffeur knows the city perfectly and will meet you upon arrival for a stress-free journey. This locally-owned service uses private vehicles that can accommodate up to nine passengers.
Explore Québec City with a flexible 4-hour bike rental, perfect for a shorter adventure. You can ride at your own pace or follow a carefully crafted self-guided itinerary using Google Maps on your phone. A variety of bike sizes and models are available, and the local team can suggest routes to enhance your experience.
Embark on a French Canadian culinary adventure through Old Québec's best restaurants at night. Guided by a licensed local expert, you’ll savor must-try dishes while learning about the city’s history and food traditions. This immersive walking tour also takes you past iconic landmarks like the Fortifications and Grande Allée under the glow of streetlights.
Explore the winter landscape of Jacques-Cartier National Park on a unique 3-hour ski-shoeing hike. This small-group tour is suitable for all skill levels and includes all necessary equipment, lunch, and round-trip transport from your hotel. Your experienced guide will teach you about the area's history and nature as you capture photos of the beautiful Quebec forest.
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Last updated on June 13, 2025
Many main attractions in Old Quebec are within easy walking distance from the cruise terminal; alternatively, the Funicular connects Lower and Upper Town, and taxis are readily available.
Must-see attractions include historic Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec), the charming Petit Champlain district, Place Royale, the iconic Château Frontenac, and the Citadelle, all accessible on foot or by a short ride.
Try local specialties like poutine, tourtière (meat pie), or delicious maple syrup products; numerous cafes and restaurants can be found in Petit Champlain and along Rue Saint-Jean.
The local currency is Canadian Dollar (1 USD = 1.36 CAD). ATMs dispensing Canadian Dollars (CAD) are widely available throughout tourist areas and banks; credit cards are also broadly accepted, making currency exchange less critical for small purchases.
Cruises typically visit from late spring to fall (May-October), with warm summers and cool, crisp autumns; pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket or umbrella.
While Quebec City is on the St. Lawrence River, there are no traditional swimming beaches within immediate walking distance of the port; enjoy scenic walks along the riverfront promenades instead.
Popular shore excursions often feature Montmorency Falls or a tour of Île d'Orléans; both cruise line organized tours and independent exploration are good options, depending on your preference for structure or flexibility.
Excellent shopping can be found in the boutiques of Petit Champlain and Rue Saint-Jean, offering local crafts, maple products, ice cider, indigenous art, and Quebec-themed souvenirs.
Consider a visit to the spectacular Montmorency Falls, easily reachable by public bus or taxi, or explore the pastoral beauty and agritourism of Île d'Orléans.
Quebec City is the only fortified city north of Mexico whose walls still exist, and its historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
On average cruises from Quebec City are moderately expensive compared to other ports. Prices are around equal throughout the year. Look at the chart below for the monthly average cost per day.
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