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).
-
Informative and relaxing tour that seemed to fly by. Xavier appeared very knowledgeable and willing to tailor the tour to our interests. For example, when he discovered our group was made up of several female teachers he added quick detour to the monument for women in teaching.
By Katy (New York City) on Airbnb (2019) -
Great tour guide. Xavier brought both a local residents perspective, and the perspective as an immigrant from another country to the tour. Enjoyable, great insights, and a unique tour experience. Worth the time and the money.
By Raymond (Toronto) on Airbnb (2019) -
My friend and I thoroughly enjoyed our recent walking tour of beautiful Quebec city (Upper Town) guided by Xavier. His blend of knowledge, insight, humour and interest in his group made us feel like we were receiving an incredible tour. When we stopped to discuss particular monuments or buildings, Xavier chose spots where the participants would be in the shade on our sunny day. During the tour, my friend and I commented that we now have a more thorough understanding of Quebec's history, wishing Xavier had been our teacher years ago while we were still in school. For anyone thinking of signing up for a walking tour with Xavier, do it. It was an amazing experience!
By Natalie (Ontario) on Airbnb (2019) -
We really enjoyed the walking tour. It was a great introduction to Quebec City. Xavier has a deep level of history, but also provided his insights on more recent and current events, which I enjoyed since I'm not from Canada. He also made an effort to be warm and welcoming and incorporating information that he thought would be specifically interesting to the members of the tour group.
By Alexis (Washington DC) on Airbnb (2019) -
I learned a lot walking around the old city of Quebec with Xavier. His tour combined info on the history of Quebec and of Canada with some local cultural and political perspectives. He was friendly and considerate, and kept the whole group smiling despite several downpours during our walk.
By Michele (Washington DC) on Airbnb (2019) -
This was a very special experience, equally informative and enjoyable. Xavier is very personable, open, and knowledgeable. His love of Old Quebec is apparent and he is very generous with his knowledge.
By Michael (New York) on Airbnb (2019) -
Wonderful tour! Xavier is charming and funny and possesses a wealth of knowledge about the city. Also gave excellent recommendations for restaurants, etc.
By Lisa (New York) on Airbnb (2019) -
I highly recommend this tour:)
By Eugene (Seoul, South Korea) on Airbnb (2019) -
Great tour not only is Xavier knowledgeable but he also has a great sense of humour!!
By Tracie (Australia) on Airbnb (2019) -
Xavier welcomed questions and provided comprehensive information in a pleasant manner. Definitely not boring! I left with a greater understanding of the history of Quebec and a desire to go back to the places I learned about. We'll worth it.
By Connie (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) 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.