Quebec City is a compact jewel full of sights, stories, and scenery that can be explored in just a couple of hours. Whether you’re short on time or simply want a quick taste of this historic city, a well-chosen 2-hour tour can make your visit memorable. We’re particularly fond of the Québec City: 2-Hour Cocktail & DJ Evening Cruise for its lively vibe and stunning river views — especially when the skyline is lit up at sunset. Or, if you prefer to stay on land, the Quebec City Highlights with a private driver offers a flexible, personalized way to see key sights comfortably. Both options give you a taste of Quebec’s charm, whether on water or land.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through five of the best 2-hour tours in Quebec City, highlighting what makes each unique and helping you decide which one fits your interests and schedule.
1. Québec City: 2-Hour Cocktail & DJ Evening Cruise
Starting at number one, this evening cruise offers a fun, relaxed way to experience Quebec from the St. Lawrence River. For $50 per person, you get two hours of lively entertainment with a talented DJ spinning the hottest tracks while you sip a refreshing cocktail included with your ticket. The floating terrace provides a unique vantage point to marvel at the illuminated skyline of Quebec City, especially as the sun sets and the historic buildings glow in soft light.
This cruise is perfect if you want a mix of scenery, music, and socializing. Guests have praised its atmosphere, with a 4.6/5 rating from 13 reviews. The highlight is undoubtedly the chance to dance and toast as you take in views of Château Frontenac and the Old Port from the water—something you can’t easily do from land. It’s a great option for night owls or couples looking for a fun, laid-back experience with a scenic backdrop.
Bottom line: This cruise combines stunning views with a lively vibe and a included cocktail, making it an enjoyable way to start the evening or celebrate a special occasion.
2. Quebec City Highlights with a private driver
Number two on our list is the Quebec City Highlights with a private driver, which costs about $445 for up to two people. This tour offers a personalized, flexible experience riding in a luxurious vehicle. Your driver-guide will take you through Old Port, Old Quebec, and the Battlefields Park with stops at Dufferin Terrace, the Parliament Building, and Place Royale — the birthplace of New France.
What makes this tour stand out is the ability to customize your experience based on your interests. The driver shares stories about sites like the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity and the Hommage à Rosa Luxembourg fresco, with plenty of time to explore or just enjoy the scenery from the car. Reviewers like Tommy noted how knowledgeable and friendly the guide was, even accommodating mobility needs.
This tour is ideal if you want to see major sights at a relaxed pace without walking long distances. It’s perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time who want a rundown without sacrificing comfort or depth.
Bottom line: An upscale, private way to see Quebec’s key landmarks comfortably and with personal attention — great for couples or small groups seeking customized insight.
3. Quebec City: Historic District Walking Tour
At number three, this Historic District Walking Tour offers an intimate exploration of Old Quebec with a professional historian. For $180, up to 12 people can walk through the UNESCO World Heritage site, uncovering its stories and secrets. The focus is on personalized narration and hidden details you could miss on your own, with visits to sites like the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (which you get exclusive access to) and the Ursuline Monastery.
The tour’s strength lies in its expert guide, who provides detailed context and honest recommendations to avoid tourist traps. The 5/5 reviews reflect this, with travelers mentioning how much they appreciated the knowledgeable storytelling. The pace is comfortable, with plenty of stops, making it suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
If you prefer to explore on foot and want a deep dive into Quebec’s architectural and cultural history, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy learning from a local expert and seeing the city at a leisurely pace.
Bottom line: A rich, educational walk that brings Old Quebec’s history alive with insights from a professional guide — perfect for history lovers and those who like to stroll.
4. Discover Old Québec and Beyond – 2-Hour Private Driving Tour
Number four, the Discover Old Québec and Beyond focuses on quick but comprehensive sightseeing by private vehicle. For about $259.80, up to three people can enjoy a personalized tour with stories about Château Frontenac, the Citadelle, and Place Royale, along with scenic views of the Plains of Abraham.
What makes this tour stand out is its customization. The driver-guide adapts the stops based on your interests, offering an engaging narrative that brings Quebec’s history to life. One reviewer mentioned how the guide, Danielle, tailored the experience to her mobility needs, allowing her to see the highlights comfortably.
Ideal for visitors who want an intimate yet efficient tour, this option is fantastic if you prefer not to walk but still want a personal touch. It’s especially good for first-time visitors or those with limited time but a desire to see a broad range of landmarks.
Bottom line: A flexible, private option that combines storytelling with comfort, making it a good fit for small groups or travelers with specific interests.
$259.80 per group (up to 3)
5. Quebec City Highlights walking tour
Finally, the Quebec City Highlights walking tour is a compact, guided exploration of Old Quebec’s treasures. Priced at around $185.13 for groups of up to 10, it offers a guided stroll through the city’s most iconic sites like the Fortifications, City Hall Square, and the Basilica-Cathedral Notre-Dame-de-Québec.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the walk includes brief stops at each site with insightful commentary. The review rating of 5/5 indicates strong satisfaction, especially for travelers who enjoy walking and learning on the go. The itinerary covers historic monuments and cultural landmarks, providing a thorough overview in just two hours.
If you’re eager to see the highlights on foot and enjoy in-depth storytelling, this tour is a top pick. It’s particularly suitable for visitors who want to absorb Quebec’s architecture and history while staying active.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, informative walking tour that offers a deep dive into Old Quebec’s most famous sights.
$185.13 per group (up to 10)
How to Choose Your 2-Hour Tour in Quebec City
When deciding which tour best suits your needs, consider your budget, mobility, and interests. If you’re after a lively evening with scenic views, the cocktail cruise offers a memorable experience, especially with its included drink and dancing. For a personalized land experience, the private driver tour provides flexibility and comfort, perfect for those wanting to customize their visit. The walking tours are ideal if you prefer to explore on foot and enjoy in-depth storytelling, particularly if you love history and architecture.
Think about whether you want to sit back and relax or walk and explore. If you’re short on time but want to see the major sights, a private driving tour can hit the highlights efficiently. For those with more time or a passion for local history, the walking tour offers a richer narrative.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months. Check for availability and consider your physical comfort level when choosing between walking and driving options.
Final Thoughts
Quebec City offers a range of fantastic 2-hour tours, from lively river cruises to intimate historic walks. For a memorable evening, the cocktail cruise combines scenery and social fun, while the private driver tour offers flexibility and tailored insights. Meanwhile, the walking tours give you the chance to stroll through Old Quebec’s streets and uncover its stories with an expert guide.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a quick but enriching experience, there’s a perfect option waiting. Be sure to book early — Quebec’s small size makes these tours popular, especially in the summer months. No matter your choice, these short experiences will give you a meaningful slice of Quebec City’s charm and history.