Quebec City is a fantastic place for full-day tours because it offers a mix of natural beauty, historic charm, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re eager to see whales off the coast, explore by bike along scenic waterways, or dive into the city’s storied past with a private driver, there’s something for every travel style. We particularly love the whale watching excursions for their combination of easy logistics and incredible wildlife encounters, and the self-guided bike rentals for their flexibility and scenic routes. If you want a more personalized experience, the private driver tour offers a deep dive into the region’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide.
If you’re planning a trip, considering your interests, budget, and the kind of experience you crave will help you pick the right adventure. Some tours, like the whale watching trip, are perfect for nature lovers, while biking options suit those who want to cover ground at their own pace. For a luxurious day with tailored sightseeing, the private driver tour is an excellent choice.
Quick Overview
In our list of The 5 Best Full-Day Tours in Quebec City, we cover everything from wildlife excursions to active explorations and private guided trips. Here’s a quick summary:
– Whale Watching Excursion: Full-day trip by bus with options for boat or Zodiac, observing up to 13 whale species (details here)
– Bike Rentals and Autoguides: Explore Quebec City at your own pace with full-day bike or electric bike rentals (see more, electric bikes)
– Private Driver Tour: A tailored, luxury experience visiting Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, and Île d’Orléans (more info)
– Fatbike Rental: Winter-friendly biking experience on snow-covered trails (see details)
Now, let’s look at each tour in detail to help you decide which one fits your trip best.
1. From Quebec City: Whale Watching Excursion Full-Day Trip
At number 1 on our list, this full-day whale watching trip is a standout for nature lovers. You’ll travel comfortably by bus from Quebec City to the remote whale watching sites, avoiding the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. Once there, you can choose between a traditional boat or a Zodiac, which is a smaller, more exhilarating vessel—your choice for a personalized experience. The tour offers the chance to observe up to 13 whale species, including orcas, humpbacks, and belugas, with expert guides providing insightful commentary along the way.
What makes this tour really special is its seamless logistics—travel in comfort, with scenic views of Charlevoix and Saguenay Fjord. The 11-hour itinerary balances travel, wildlife watching, and sightseeing, making for a full but satisfying day. Reviews are strong, with a 4.3/5 rating from over 800 travelers, praising the organization and wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: If you love marine life and want a hassle-free, guided experience, this whale watching trip hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who want to combine scenic bus rides with the thrill of spotting whales in their natural habitat.
2. Full-Day Bike Rental in Québec City with Autoguided Itineraries
Next up is a fantastic way to see Quebec City at your own pace. For around $37, you get a full-day bike rental, complete with helmets and locks, allowing you to explore without time pressures. With detailed maps and directions included, you can craft your own route through Old Quebec, along the waterfront, or up toward Montmorency Falls. The city’s extensive network of bike lanes makes this an ideal choice for both casual riders and those wanting a bit of adventure.
Based on the perfect 5.0/5 reviews from 20 travelers, this rental is praised for its ease, value, and flexibility. Many users mention how easy it was to pick up and return the bikes, as well as how scenic and manageable the routes are—especially the trip to Montmorency Falls, which is a highlight.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy active exploration and want to customize your day, renting bikes for the full day offers great value and freedom. It’s perfect for independent travelers comfortable with basic navigation.
3. Full-Day Electric Bike Rental in Québec City with Itineraries
For those who prefer effortless riding, the full-day electric bike rental delivers a relaxed yet comprehensive way to experience Quebec City. The bikes feature pedal assist, so even steep climbs—like heading from the Plains of Abraham to Montmorency Falls—are manageable. With a full day to explore, you can hop between Old Town, the riverfront, and the outskirts at your leisure.
This tour is especially suited for travelers who want to cover more ground without breaking a sweat. The 5-star reviews reflect the quality of the bikes and the helpful staff, with comments about how the e-bikes make it easy to enjoy the scenery without fatigue. Some reviews mention how the bikes’ batteries last all day, allowing a full itinerary to fit comfortably within 8 hours.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a stress-free way to see the city’s top sights without strenuous effort, the e-bike rental is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for active travelers who value comfort and flexibility.
4. Full Day Tour with Private Driver in Quebec
At number 4 is a luxury, customizable experience led by a private driver. This 9-hour tour covers Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, and Île d’Orléans, with the driver acting as your personal guide. The itinerary can be tailored to your interests, with the driver sharing insights about each site’s history and local culture.
Rated 5.0/5 from two reviews, this tour is best suited for travelers who want in-depth, personalized service. The guide, Tommy, is praised for his perfect planning and in-depth knowledge, ensuring you see the highlights without rushing. The tour includes admission tickets for Old Quebec, and the stops at Montmorency Falls and the island offer a mix of natural beauty and heritage.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a relaxed, tailored experience with a private driver, this is the most comfortable and informative way to explore Quebec’s highlights. It’s perfect for travelers celebrating a special occasion or those who want a stress-free, immersive day.
5. Full Day Fatbike Rental in Québec City
Finally, for winter travelers or those exploring snow-covered trails, the full-day fatbike rental offers a fun and active way to experience Quebec’s winter landscape. The oversized tires provide excellent traction, allowing you to glide through snowy paths with ease. While this tour has no reviews yet, it’s great for adventurous types who want to combine outdoor activity with scenic views of historic architecture and winter scenery.
The rental price is very budget-friendly at just under $15, and durations range from 1 to 4 hours, making it flexible for short or extended outings. This option is best suited for those comfortable with biking off-road in winter conditions and seeking something uniquely Quebec.
Bottom Line: For winter explorers looking to combine outdoor fun with sightseeing, fatbiking is an exciting way to enjoy the season at your own pace.
$14.79 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Quebec City Full-Day Tour
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your interests and physical fitness. Wildlife lovers should prioritize the whale watching excursion (see details), while active travelers might prefer the self-guided biking options (bike, electric bikes). For a personalized, hassle-free day, the private driver tour (more info) suits those seeking comfort and deep insight into the region’s highlights.
Weather can also influence your choice—winter fatbiking is perfect for snowy days, while summer is better suited for whale watching and outdoor biking. Booking early is advised, especially for guided tours and private experiences, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Quebec City offers a range of full-day tours that cater to different interests and energy levels. Whether you’re eager to see whales, cycle through historic streets, or enjoy a private guided day, each option provides a unique window into this beautiful region. For wildlife lovers, the whale watching trip is an unforgettable experience. Active explorers will appreciate the flexibility of biking options, especially the electric bikes for longer adventures. Meanwhile, those seeking comfort and tailored insights should consider the private driver tour.
Whatever your choice, booking early ensures you’ll get your preferred date, especially during peak travel seasons. Now is the time to start planning your perfect Quebec City adventure—these tours are waiting to enrich your trip with memorable experiences.