Discover Québec: A Guide to the Province's Top Attractions
Québec, a vast Canadian province, is a land of varied landscapes, from bustling cities to the remote Arctic tundra. It stretches to the Arctic Circle in the north, meets Vermont and New York to the south, and reaches Hudson Bay in the west. The St. Lawrence River, a 1,200-kilometer waterway, flows through its most populous areas.
While Montréal and Québec City are popular destinations, Québec offers a wealth of activities across the province in all seasons. From historical sites and cultural festivals to natural parks and quaint towns, there's much to explore. Discover the best places to visit with our list of top attractions in Québec.
1. Place Royale
Place Royale, the cradle of Québec City, was founded by Samuel de Champlain in 1608. It boasts a collection of 17th- and 18th-century buildings, including the stone church Notre-Dame des Victoires and the Musée de la Civilisation. Nearby Quartier Petit-Champlain offers charming streets with artisan shops and restaurants.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Québec City
2. Le Château Frontenac
The iconic Château Frontenac, built in 1894, stands majestically over Québec City. The Terrasse Dufferin offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River, and visitors can explore the historic fort ruins beneath the Promenade des Gouverneurs.
Address: 1 Rue des Carrières, Québec City, Québec
3. Musee de la Civilisation (Museum of Civilization)
Located in Québec City's Old Port, the Museum of Civilization presents a vast array of artifacts and exhibits on human history. Interactive displays and guided tours are available, and the museum also includes the Musée de l'Amérique Francophone, focusing on French-American history.
Address: 85, rue Dalhousie, Quebec City, Québec
Official site: www.mcq.org/en
4. Chutes Montmorency
Chutes Montmorency, just outside Québec City, is a breathtaking waterfall taller than Niagara Falls. Visitors can experience the falls up close via a suspension bridge, cable car, or zipline.
Address: 5300 boulevard Sainte-Anne, Québec
Official site: www.sepaq.com/ct/pcm
5. Old Montréal (Vieux-Montreal)
Old Montréal, best explored on foot, is a historic district featuring landmarks like the Notre-Dame Basilica and Place Jacques-Cartier. The Old Port offers family attractions such as the Montréal Science Center and La Grande Roue de Montréal.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Montréal
Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Old Montréal
6. Parc Jean Drapeau
Parc Jean Drapeau, on Île Sainte-Hélène, features attractions like La Ronde Amusement Park and the Montreal Biodome. The Stewart Museum showcases art and historical artifacts.
Location: Île Sainte-Hélène, Montréal, Québec
7. Canadian Museum of History
In Gatineau, the Canadian Museum of History offers insights into Canada's past, including First Nations history. It also houses the Canadian Children's Museum and an IMAX theater.
Address: 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau, Québec
Official site: www.historymuseum.ca
8. Notre-Dame Basilica
The Notre-Dame Basilica, Montréal's oldest church, is known for its stunning interior and stained-glass windows. Tours and evening light shows are available.
Address: 110 Rue Notre-Dame Ouest, Montréal, Québec
Official site: www.basiliquenotredame.ca
9. La Citadel de Québec
The Citadel de Québec, a historic fortress, offers tours and the Changing of the Guard ceremony in summer. It's an active military base and the Governor General's summer residence.
Address: 1 Côte de la Citadelle,Québec City, Québec
Official site: www.lacitadelle.qc.ca/en
10. Mont Tremblant
Mont Tremblant, the highest peak in the Laurentians, is a premier ski destination with a charming village atmosphere. Nearby Mont Sainte-Anne offers year-round outdoor activities.
Address: 1000 Chemin des Voyageurs Mont-Tremblant, Mont Tremblant, Québec
Accommodation: Where to Stay at Mont Tremblant
11. Montreal Botanical Gardens (Jardin Botanique)
The Montreal Botanical Gardens feature themed gardens and greenhouses, including the Chinese and Japanese Gardens. The Insectarium and a planetarium are also on-site.
Address: 4101 Rue Sherbrooke Est, Montréal, Québec
Official site: http://espacepourlavie.ca/en/botanical-garden
12. Zoo de Granby
Zoo de Granby is home to over 1,500 animals from various climates, including snow leopards and gorillas. The zoo offers educational programs and an amusement park.
Address: 1050 David-Bouchard Blvd., Granby, Quebec
Official site: www.zoodegranby.com/en
13. Gatineau Park
Gatineau Park, with its forested hills and lakes, offers outdoor activities and historical sites like Mackenzie King Estate and Lusk Cave.
Address: 33 Scott Road, Old Chelsea, Québec
Official site: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/gatineau-park
14. Hudson Bay
Hudson Bay's vast and remote landscape is rich in Arctic flora and fauna, including polar bears and migratory birds.
Read More: Exploring Hudson Bay: A Visitor's Guide
15. Forillon National Park
Forillon National Park, at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, offers dramatic cliffs and wildlife. The Cap des Rosiers Lighthouse provides educational insights.
Address: 122 Gaspé Boulevard, Gaspé, Québec
Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/qc/forillon
16. Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré
The Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, a pilgrimage site, is known for reported miracle cures. Nearby are scenic canyons and waterfalls.
Address: 10018 Ave Royale, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, Québec
17. Iles de la Madeleine
The Îles de la Madeleine archipelago, with its sand dunes and beaches, is perfect for water sports and nature walks. The islands offer a glimpse into traditional lifestyles.
18. Bonaventure Island (île Bonaventure)
Bonaventure Island is a bird sanctuary famous for its gannet colony. The island's trails offer views of diverse seabirds and the Rocher Percé.
Official site: http://www.sepaq.com/pq/bon/
19. Mount Royal Park
Mont Royal Park, the green heart of Montréal, offers panoramic city views and hosts various events, including the summer Les Tam-Tams drum circle.
Official site: www.lemontroyal.qc.ca/en
