Quebec is Canada's largest province by area and the only one with French as its sole official language, offering a unique blend of European charm and North American dynamism. From the historic walled city of Quebec City to the cosmopolitan streets of Montreal, and from the dramatic Saguenay Fjord to the peaks of the Laurentian Mountains, Quebec delivers an extraordinary diversity of landscapes and cultures. It is a place where centuries of Indigenous and French heritage meet modern innovation, world-class cuisine, and vibrant arts.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Quebec.
-
1
Old Quebec City (Vieux-Quebec)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only walled city north of Mexico, Old Quebec's cobblestone streets, 17th-century architecture, and imposing fortifications transport visitors to another era. The Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville) are connected by steep staircases and funicular, offering stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
Tip: Start at the Chateau Frontenac for orientation · Explore on foot to discover hidden courtyards · Visit early morning to beat crowds in summer
-
2
Chateau Frontenac
One of the most photographed hotels in the world, the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac dominates the Quebec City skyline with its dramatic castle-like architecture. Built in 1893 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, it towers above the St. Lawrence River and serves as the crown jewel of Quebec City's iconic silhouette.
Tip: Visit the hotel bar for drinks and river views · The Dufferin Terrace boardwalk alongside is free and offers panoramic views
-
3
Montmorency Falls (Chutes Montmorency)
At 83 metres, Montmorency Falls is actually taller than Niagara Falls by 30 metres, though narrower. The falls plunge dramatically into the St. Lawrence River at Montmorency Falls Park, just 12 km from Quebec City. A suspension bridge spans the top, a cable car rises from the base, and via ferrata routes let adventurers climb alongside the cascades.
Tip: Wear waterproof gear near the base in summer · In winter, the giant ice cone is a spectacular landmark · The suspension bridge at the top offers the best view
-
4
Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal
One of North America's most breathtaking religious buildings, the Notre-Dame Basilica in Old Montreal features an ornate Gothic Revival interior filled with hand-carved woodwork, gilded vaults, and stunning stained glass. The AURA light show transforms the basilica into an immersive artistic experience after dark.
Tip: The AURA show is worth the extra cost · Free guided tours available at certain hours · Look up at the vaulted ceiling adorned with thousands of gold stars
-
5
Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal)
Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (who also designed New York's Central Park), Mount Royal Park is Montreal's beloved urban green space, rising 233 metres above the city. The Kondiaronk Belvedere lookout offers sweeping panoramic views of Montreal and the St. Lawrence River. In winter, skating and cross-country skiing draw thousands of locals.
Tip: The Sunday drum circle (May-October) is a Montreal institution · Rent a pedal boat at Beaver Lake in summer · Snowshoeing and cross-country ski rentals available in winter
-
6
Jean-Talon Market (Marche Jean-Talon)
The largest open-air market in North America, Jean-Talon Market in Montreal's Little Italy neighbourhood overflows with colourful produce, local cheese, maple products, fresh flowers, and artisan goods. It is the heart of Quebec's food culture, attracting chefs, foodies, and everyday shoppers year-round.
Tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid weekend crowds · Try local cheeses from fromageries inside the market · The maple syrup selection is excellent and makes a great souvenir
-
7
Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre Basilica
One of North America's oldest and most visited pilgrimage sites, the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre stands 35 km northeast of Quebec City. The massive Romanesque-Byzantine basilica has welcomed pilgrims since the 17th century and displays crutches and canes left by those who claim miraculous cures, creating a powerful and moving atmosphere.
Tip: The Way of the Cross sculpture garden behind the basilica is excellent · The museum beside the basilica details the history of the pilgrimage
-
8
Jacques-Cartier National Park
Just 30 km north of Quebec City, Jacques-Cartier National Park protects a spectacular boreal valley carved by glaciers, with the Jacques-Cartier River winding through dramatic cliffs and pristine forests. The park offers outstanding hiking, kayaking, camping, and wildlife viewing (moose, black bears, and red foxes are commonly sighted).
Tip: Book campsites well in advance for summer · The Vallee trail offers the best valley overview · Kayaking on the river is spectacular — rentals available in the park
-
9
Gaspe Peninsula (Peninsule Gaspesienne)
A rugged, spectacular peninsula jutting into the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Gaspe is one of Quebec's most breathtaking regions. Perched Rock (Rocher Perce), Forillon National Park's dramatic cliffs, whale watching in the bay, charming coastal villages, and the place where Jacques Cartier first planted a cross claiming Canada for France all await.
Tip: Drive the full Gaspe loop — over 1,300 km of coastal scenery · Whale watching tours depart from Riviere-du-Loup and Tadoussac · Rocher Perce is best photographed at low tide
-
10
Ile d'Orleans
Known as the 'Garden of Quebec', Ile d'Orleans is a charming island in the St. Lawrence River just 15 minutes from Quebec City. Six distinct villages preserve centuries of Quebec rural heritage, while roadside stands sell artisanal ciders, wines, strawberries, and maple products. The island was declared a Quebec heritage site in 1970.
Tip: Rent a bike to cycle the 70 km circuit around the island · Stop at Chocolaterie de l'Ile for artisanal chocolates · Ice cider (cidre de glace) is a local specialty — buy at local orchards
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.