Quebec City has been at the top of my list of places to visit in Canada for years, and I’ve finally been able to check it off. Well, check it off, and then erase it, and then write it back on the list for next year because I can’t wait to go back. I booked his 2-day trip in a matter of minutes — which is kind of how I roll when it comes to making those “spoken about in passing” type of trips. Don’t you dare mention to me that maybe we should head to Los Angeles on the next long weekend because I will get back to you in 2 hours with a list of the cheapest flights and best travel days. If you mention L.A. travel, you best be prepared to travel.
So the story goes: my husband had a business trip planned for the end of October, and had previously mentioned to me that QC would be a fun place for me to come along.
Well, one day I just so happened upon a seat sale through Porter Airlines and then just so happened to book my trip. It was such a good deal, I had to… right?!
Anyway, I digress. I booked a Sunday-Tuesday mini-getaway, which worked out to be just under 48hrs. Next step was to figure out what the heck we were going to do, and –more importantly — where we were going to eat!
Needless to say, we walked, ate and drank our way through this gorgeous European inspired city, and 2 days is just not enough time to enjoy it all (there is so much wine and cheese to try!). That being said, if you have a shortened trip, here is what I recommend to do with 48hrs in Quebec City.
1- Stroll through Old Québec
Old Quebec is the part of the city that most people recognize in photos (hello, Chateau Frontenac) and it is the most european-ish with its cobblestone streets and narrow alleys, café and gastro pubs on every corner. Having lived in Europe for a short stint, this is what I miss most: the social common of meeting a friend for a coffee on your way to work, grabbing a snack or a drink in the evening, eating and drinking as a leisurely activity. The colorful storefronts and kitschy tourism stores add to the appeal.
There is also a lot of public art. I personally don’t get most of it, but some of the murals and professional graffiti really caught my eye. Shopping isn’t scarce if that’s your thing, but we mainly stuck to walking and taking in the sights and ambiance of the walled Old Quebec. We also had our first meal at a Saprisiti – a funky bistro that was absolutely packed at 10:30 pm with late rush diners, serving a mouth-watering prosciutto wrapped asparagus and one of the better Napoleon pizzas I’ve had in a while (and in case you didn’t know, I LOVE pizza).
2- Book a Food Tour
This is one of my favorite things to do when traveling to places known for their cuisine. With less than 72hrs to explore, a food tour is the easiest way to hit multiple foodie stops and get cultured while you’re doing it. Quebec City Food Tours operates in the Saint-Roch area of QC — an up-and-coming area with dozens of “must-eat” restaurants and bars. The food tour is an incredible deal for the cost ($49 per person) because you hit 6 stops over the course of 3 hours and I guarantee you won’t leave hungry. The tour hosts are fun and spirited, spewing off unique facts and history tidbits of the city that you are unlikely to read in a guide-book. The most memorable stops for me were #1, 3 and 5. First stop was cheese, cheese, and more cheese at Le Fromagerie des Grondines where our tastes included a pesto grilled cheese sandy that there are no words to describe because I am still drooling over it. Number 3 was a new hot spot called Noctem where we enjoyed a weisen style beer and a trout gravlax dish. Number 5 was the gravy-soaked poutine institution of AshTon. Squeaky cheese curds for the win!! The other stops included a vegan restaurant, a tea shop and a chocolate boutique. It was wonderfully balanced with smaller bites in between the larger, heavier portions, and the three hours flew by with the fantastic storytelling done by our guide. I can’t give away all the details — you’ll have to try it out for yourself! Click here for more info or to book!
3 – Have a Drink at the Chateau Frontenac
Unless you have money to burn, eating a full meal at the world-famous Chateau might not be in the cards for you. (If it is, power to ya!) A lovely compromise – but still on the expensive end of a budget — is to enjoy a cocktail at 1608 Wine and Cheese Bar. 1608 is a very eclectic yet posh space ( hello, fur covered sofas with antlers) with killer views of the St. Lawrence river. Add in the turning fall leaves and it’s a scene worthy of a postcard. Actually, it is totally on hundreds of postcards. We found a seat at the bar and ordered some fancy-pants cocktails, and sat for an hour to warm up from the bitter QC wind and people watch. I kind of felt like a celebrity, lol.
The hubby had a classic cocktail: Right Word. I had something insanely delicious that I DON’T REMEMBER THE NAME OF. Ugh. It’s bourbon based with St. Germain and reminds me of a Paper Plane, but better. If anyone knows, tell me so I can try and re-create it at home!
4- Catch a Show at Palais Montcalm
The Palais Montcalm is a stunning theatre just outside one of the main entranceways to Old Town. Known for showcasing some pretty incredible talent, we were lucky to be there for the Quebec Drum Fest. Well, I was really just a tag along, but I got to see some very cool headliners in the drumming world. Centrally located and beautiful inside and out, seeing an intimate show of an artist I knew well would be a real treat. This is Arron Spears (Usher’s drummer) playing “Caught Up”.
5- Go for a Rip on the Grand Alleé
Considered one of the most touristy parts of Quebec City, the Grand Alleé has its own charm. This section of street just west of the Old Quebec is lined with bars and trendy nightclubs, and one dance club that was a blast from the past for my husband, lol. We made a dinner reservation at L’Atelier, a cocktail and tartar bar. Since becoming obsessed with poke on our Hawaiian Honeymoon, I now seek out rare salmon and tuna dishes – this had both — and a cocktail called the Absolut Douchebag — so I was sold. We had a beer at the pub next door to get a feel for the strip and then enjoyed a fantastic meal of charcuterie and salmon tartar at L’Atelier. The interior of this place is mesmerizing. The main designs all include some aspect of gears… gears on the wall, gears turning inside the bar, a geared pulley system moving up and down between the four, yes four, floors of seating. We finished the night with me doing some random shot that was smoking like dry ice. I think it was called a sucker punch. It was disgusting but looked really cool, lol. Then, like any adults on a mini-getaway who’ve just had an amazing dinner and lots of wine, we promptly walked back to our hotel and went to sleep. Seriously, lights out by 10 pm.
6- Brunch
Oh, brunch. Brunch. Is. My. Jam. I don’t need to explain this too much, but what I will say is I like exploring and finding off-the-beaten-path type places as a nice break from the super trendy and touristy spots. Bügel – La Fabrique du Bagel was that place for us in Quebec City. Located in the Montcalm neighborhood, this bagel restaurant was a delightful surprise. Recommended by our guide from the Quebec City Food Tours, it was described as the brunch place for locals. Bonus points – the theme is inspired by Lord of the Rings (huge nerd alert). The prices were cheap (compared to in Old Quebec) and the bagels were beyond fresh. Quebec bagels are no joke — there is a sweetness to them that store-bought bagels don’t have. They are best eaten fresh and we had ours with fresh jam, eggs, and some magical vegetable spread. This simple breakfast is up there for me in great holiday brunches.
If you are interested in visiting any of the places I’ve mentioned in this post, here’s how they are spread out in the city — which is 100% walkable!
We took taxis to a few places that were actually only a ten-minute walk away. Though Quebec City is cooooolllld this time of year so sometimes the cab is totally warranted. Make sure to pack smart and bundle up; the wind is piercing. Good thing there is lots of comfort food 😉
Thanks for reading! Check out my other city eats recommendations here.
{Disclaimer: I was provided with complimentary passes for this awesome excursion, but that in no way affects my opinion or review. Just thought you should know ?}
Lula Dolz
Ooh heard great things about Quebec and this just makes me want to go more 🙂 Going to Canada in September so defo fancy checking a few of these places out myself. Thanks for sharing and cute blog!
Naomi
I love the vibe of Quebec, it looks so old world and European inspired indeed. I’d be a sucker for Bügel too, that looks so tasty! I’d go back for seconds.
Amanda Keeley-Thurman
I would love to visit Quebec! Old Town is where I want to spend the most time, but that wine and cheese bar looks pretty fabulous.
Brian
It’s been more than 10 years since I’ve been to Quebec. I remember 1 & 2 being absolute musts for me. I love how you included a map. I found QC to be very walkable, but I’m still afraid to visit in winter!
Sondra Barker
Quebec has been on my travel list for ages, I can’t wait! I’d really love to have that drink at Chateau Frontenac!
Amrita Basu
I lover how you suggested food tours as the best way tO enjoy local cuisine. Will be my first choice when in Quebec.The brunch bagel place sounds drool worthy.
Rosemary
I’ve been intrigued with Quebec for several years and this post just made me lust it even more. Great overview of what to do in a short time. Agree, food tours are a great way to get to see the city. Hopefully will get there in 2017.
Patricia @ Grab a Plate
Looks like a wonderful time! I’d love to make it there myself some day soon! I’d love to try all the wonderful food and take in the beautiful sights!
Corey | The Nostalgia Diaries
I’ve always wanted to travel to Canada. This post makes me want to finally do it, and to put Quebec City on my list!
Houx
I hadn’t realized how beautiful the country of Canada is. I need to add this to my bucket list. I would have to drive there which would be part of the adventure.
Ola
Boy you got a lot done in just 2 days. That food tour looks awesome. I’ve been wanting to visit both Quebec and Montreal. This is a good cheat sheet to keep.
Katie Kinsley
I’ve never been there, but it looks like a lovely place!
Erin Ruoff
This trip looks awesome! I’d love a food tour!
Tami
Would love a stroll on that quaint cobblestoned street in old Quebec…hoping to make it there myself within a year. Really appreciated your detailed description, photos, and walking map! They’ll definitely come in handy!
Annie
Being from New Jersey, I can be kind of a snob about bagels. But I will trust that it’s worth the trip outside the Old City, at least now I know where to get my breakfast carb bomb when I visit! They certaintly look delicious 🙂
Brian
I like 1 & 2 the best. Been longing to return to Quebec. It’s been more than 10 years. “48 Hours” is a Clash song!
Doro Henrietta
Love this, I would love to visit Quebec City 🙂 That bage place looks awesome 🙂
Ali May
What a great way to spend a couple of days! I’ve always wanted to go to Quebec, and you’ve highlighted all the great reasons why I NEED to see it. Beautiful European-styled architecture and fancy pants cocktails with a dash of people watching are just two of those reasons!
chen
Awesome post with gorgeous images. This is definitely the type of trip I would like to take.
Gillian
Oh my gosh, a food tour sounds amazing! Actually this whole trip sounds amazing; I need a vaca stat.
Pamela
Oh wow! I totally love this guide, I’m planning a getaway soon & this might be the perfect place to go!
Ashley Solberg
I would absolutely adore a visit there one day!! When I do, you bet I will be making a stop at all these places, amazing!
Kelsinwonderland
Ashley SolbergAmazing! Thank you so much for reading 🙂
Lisa
I need to get back to Quebec City! I love your recommendations. Maybe I will wait until summer because it’s too cold there in the winter!! A food tour would be really cool!
Kelsinwonderland
LisaIt was pretty cold, lol! I would also love to visit in the summer. The food tour was so awesome! Thank you for reading 🙂
Shannon
Looks like you had a great time!
Katherine Petrunia
So beautiful! Quebec has been on my travel wish list for some time. I’ve known a few people who’ve been and all have said amazing things. Loved this post.
Kelsinwonderland
Katherine PetruniaHope you are able to cross it off the list soon! Thank you for reading and your kind words.
Julian
Nice post! Does look very French/European, very beautiful! Will definitely visit the city when we decide to travel around Canada – thanks for the inspiration!
Anouk
Love your pictures, love your writing style and I’m pretty sure I’d love Quebec too! You’re a great ambassador for Quebec- seriously!
Kelsinwonderland
AnoukAw, thank you so much for your kind compliments! I’m glad you enjoyed reading and hope you found some Quebec inspiration 😉
Cat | For Two, Please
I love Quebec City! It is so different from the rest of Canada and has so much to see and do there! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Kelsinwonderland
Cat | For Two, PleaseThank you for reading! Quebec is a very special place, we are lucky to be so close to it 🙂
Hendrik
So many great tips and advices – this gave us a very good impression of Quebec and especially your culinary tips made me really hungry now 🙂
Thank you for sharing your experiences – always happy travelling Hendrik & Birdie
Kelsinwonderland
HendrikThank you so much for reading! I hope one day you get a chance to visit this piece of Canadian culture 🙂
Sam
Lovely photos!! Btw love the tagline of your blog – I definitely always travel light and bright lipstick and eyeliner are my makeup staples!
Kelsinwonderland
SamAw, thank you! Thanks for reading 🙂
Natalia
That was a very delicious trip! Quebec is on our bucket list now. Thank you for sharing the list of the best places to eat in Quebec. The bagel place looks particulary mouthwatering.
Kelsinwonderland
NataliaOh, it was! You should absolutely visit if you get the chance – it is a wonderful place! Thank you for reading 🙂
Amanda
Love this post! I’ve always wanted to visit Quebec and we are thinking of squeezing it in this summer while back east. You sound like me, I always hijack my hubby’s business trips. Any opportunity to travel I take.
JeeYoung W
Such a beautiful city! I’ve always wanted to visit.
Kelsinwonderland
JeeYoung WIf you can visit, you should! It’s stunning
Sheena
I’m a city girl so I love this! All the food & cocktails look amazing, I love to see people treating themselves especially on holiday! I’m heading back to North America next year, so I may just have to put Quebec on the list, thanks for these great recommendations!
Anna
This trip sounds amazing!
Vyjay Rao
Wow there is so much to see in Quebec city. As you said, 48 hours is not enough. It is so beautiful, especially the old Quebec walk!
Kelsinwonderland
Vyjay RaoThere really is! Thank you for reading 🙂
Katie Garday
Gosh you are making me want to visit so bad! You are an excellent writer!
Kelsinwonderland
Katie GardayAw, thank you so much for the kind words! Thank you for reading 🙂
Amy
Quebec city is GORGEOUS and all the little eateries look absolutely divine 🙂 Hope to visit here some day!
Kelsinwonderland
AmyIsn’t it so pretty! Cheaper than going to Europe, too LOL! thank you for reading!
Patricia
I would love to visit Quebec!! This is an awesome overview of the city and that brunch looks delicious!!!!
Kelsinwonderland
PatriciaIt was! Thank you for reading 🙂
Eryka
Okay I need to go back & visit as an adult!
Kelsinwonderland
ErykaAbsolutely!! Put it on the list 😉
neha
Looks like a wonderful weekend getaway with a lot to do. And you did make the perfect use of the 48 hours that you got here!!
Kelsinwonderland
nehaThank you for reading! Yes, it was a whirlwind 48 hrs but so worth it 🙂
Donna Long
Excellent read! Loved your voice and humor scattered through out the post. I am looking forward to reading more!
Kelsinwonderland
Donna LongThank you so much for your kind compliment! I hope you enjoy some other posts as well 🙂
Philip
Its such a great European getaway right here in north america. Hope to reach there some day