From the Parliament of Québec to Petit Champlain, explore the quaint streets of Old Québec, admiring the French, British and American influences. Discover why and how a small fur trading post became the capital of a modern democracy.
(Based on 104 reviews)
Quebec City, a UNESCO world heritage, is the cradle of the French civilization in North America. French founded a small fur trading post, where pioneers and missionaries gathered. The town grew and managed to become a city despite of threats, wars, epidemics and Winter. It used to be the main city of New France and later Canada. Due to its strategic position, it has the biggest defensive network of America with its fortifications, batteries, forts and citadel. It is still the capital of Quebec Province.
This is an introductory tour that focuses on history, culture and architecture. You’ll learn the main facts and see some of the highlights of the old city, Upper Town and Lower Town, without setting aside little stories and interesting details.
The tour begins at Parliament Hill in Upper Town and gradually makes its way downhill to Old Québec’s Lower Town. While the route is mostly downhill, it includes cobblestones, uneven surfaces, and a few staircases. It will suit most visitors with average mobility. Wear comfortable walking shoes and check the weather forecast so you can dress accordingly.
Highlights of the guided tour in Old Quebec
Each guide has its own itinerary, but you’re mostly going to see :
- Parliament of Quebec,
- Entrance of the Battlefields Park,
- St. Louis gate,
- Fortifications,
- City hall,
- Price Building,
- Cathedral-basilica Notre-Dame de Québec,
- Holy Trinity,
- Dufferin Boardwalk,
- Château Frontenac,
- Place royale.
Depending on the itinerary your guide chose, you might see :
- Grand Séminaire,
- Morrin Centre.
How to get there ?
The tour starts on time in front of the statue of the Indigenous fisherman located at the main entrance of the Parlement of Québec (Assemblée nationale).
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Xavier tailored the discussion to those present, emphasizing what might best tie their backgrounds to the history of Quebec or those who founded and settled it. His insight into how the city and it's people developed and became what it is today makes the buildings and other relics he uses as props seem more relevant and alive. Worth the relatively short walk designed to ascend the hilly terrain as gradually as possible, with the return to most anywhere downhill at its conclusion.
By Robert (Wisconsin) on Airbnb (2019) -
Really great tour with interesting insights based on Xavier's own background and experiences. Great to meet so many people from different places.
By Beth (Manchester, United Kingdom) on Airbnb (2019) -
- Great way to start your stay there. He has all the qualities of a great tour guide. Well worth it!
By Jeff (New Brunswick) on Airbnb (2019) -
Xavier was personable and enthusiastic. Great tour.
By Eric (Wisconsin) on Airbnb (2019) -
We had a wonderful time with Xavier. He had real insight into the Quebec culture and the reasons by the political atmosphere in today's Quebec.
By Heather (Ontario) on Airbnb (2019) -
Xavier gave an entertaining overview of Quebec history and culture which was a good length and well-presented. We had a great time!
By Alex (Palo Alto, California) on Airbnb (2019) -
Nice way to get an introduction to the city. It was a small group, and it was easy to get into talking. I am glad to learn in a very communicative way from a local expert. Highly recommended!! By the way, try poutine on Côte du Palais, it was REALLY good LOL
By Minghui (China) on Airbnb (2019) -
Xavier has a passion and depth of knowledge that made this tour a highlight of our visit to Quebec City. I really enjoyed meeting up at the statue my 10th great grandfather who is Louis Hebert - The first settler of Canada . (Of course he has many descendants so I’m not the first one to make such a claim! ) Xavier also gives private tours so I hope you come back with family members and take that they will do research On your family tree and ancestors for you before you come for the tour. Just search the other website: “Tours Accolade” From the other (T.A.) website : Explore the old historic neighbourhoods of Quebec City and Lévis with Tours Accolade and our professional guides. You’ll have a better understanding of local history and truly appreciate local architecture, culture and lifestyle. This is an excellent choice go for it !
By Ted & Lisa (Seattle) on Airbnb (2019) -
No comment
By Liz (Connecticut) on Airbnb (2019)Customer wanted to give a rating without explanations, but Airbnb platform requires answers in the form.
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Great tour with a friendly host!
By Jono (Connecticut) on Airbnb (2019)
If you need help or if you didn’t find an availability that suits you, please contact us. We might add an availability for you if we can. It is also possible to provide a private tour.