Quebec is a city that lives and breathes its history through its streets, museums, and surrounding landscapes. Its deep roots in French culture, Indigenous traditions, and colonial stories make it a fascinating destination for history lovers. Among the standout experiences are visits to Canada’s most-visited museum, the Canadian Museum of History, a charming tour of Levis with taste and tradition, and a scenic journey around Île d’Orléans that captures the island’s past and present. We’ve chosen these three tours because each offers a distinct way to connect with Quebec’s stories—whether through immersive exhibits, walking explorations, or panoramic views. If you want to understand the cultural fabric of this region, these experiences are well worth your time.
Quick Overview
This list features a variety of historical tours suited for different interests and time frames. For those who love museums and artifacts, the Canadian Museum of History offers an in-depth look at Canada’s development through centuries. If you prefer walking tours combined with local flavors, the History of Levis and Tasting at the Ostara Market provides a charming glimpse into Levis’ past along with a taste of regional products. For a more scenic, in-depth experience, the Panoramic and historical tour of Île d’Orléans takes you on a ride through history and landscape, with lots of spots for photos and stories.
1. Canadian Museum of History (Canadian Children’s Museum included)
At number 1 on our list, the Canadian Museum of History is Canada’s most visited museum—and for good reason. It’s just across the river from Parliament Hill, and its striking architecture by Douglas Cardinal is as much a piece of art as the exhibits inside. This museum offers a comprehensive look at Canada’s history, cultural heritage, and First Peoples. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a broad overview, packed with authentic artifacts from Indigenous cultures, early explorers, and modern Canadians.
The highlight is the Canadian History Hall, which takes you through Canada’s story from indigenous times to today. You’ll see incredible totem poles, First Nations art, and exhibits that challenge your perspective with stories from multiple viewpoints. Visitors often comment on the size and depth of the exhibits—”a gigantic museum with a wonderful First Nation memorabilia,” one review states. The inclusion of the Canadian Children’s Museum makes it a family-friendly stop. For $20.45, you get around 2-3 hours of immersive learning, making it an excellent value. The museum’s accessible location and engaging displays make it ideal for history enthusiasts of all ages.
Bottom Line: This museum is a must-visit for an organized, comprehensive introduction to Canadian history and Indigenous cultures. It’s a prime choice if you prefer indoor, educational experiences.
2. History of Levis and Tasting at the Ostara Market
For those interested in a combination of local history, architecture, and regional flavors, the History of Levis and Tasting at the Ostara Market offers a lively walk through old Levis. This tour starts with the Eglise Notre-Dame de la Victoire, a church that reflects the importance of religion during Levis’ 400 years of history. The guide will explore how religion shaped the community, especially when the church is open after Mass, adding an authentic and local touch.
Next, you’ll visit the Musee de la Maison Alphonse-Desjardins, where explanations about the Desjardins movement—founded by Alphonse and Dorimène Desjardins in 1900—bring financial cooperation stories close to home. The tour continues along Avenue Bégin, showcasing the restored heritage homes where wealthy Levis residents once lived, and finally, the Côte du Passage, a historic route that formed the city’s core a century ago.
This 2-hour experience also includes a tasting component, sampling fresh and processed products from local farmers, giving you a flavor of the region’s agricultural heritage. The small group size and insider stories make it engaging, especially for history and food lovers. The tour is priced at $34.80, offering excellent value for those who want a mix of walking, history, and tasting—perfect for a slow Sunday morning or summer weekend.
Bottom Line: This tour combines history, architecture, and regional food into a compact, engaging experience. Ideal for travelers who enjoy local stories and tasting regional produce.
$34.80 per person
3. Panoramic and historical tour of Île d’Orléans
Number 3 on our list is a scenic and historical journey around Île d’Orléans, with a guide who has over 30 years of experience in Quebec. The island is a birthplace of French America, packed with ancestral houses, farms, and stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. This tour is perfect if you want to combine history with nature, seeing the island’s landscape and stories in one comprehensive outing.
The tour begins with a quick stop to admire the Espace Felix Leclerc, a statue and spectacular view, setting the tone for a scenic drive. You’ll visit the Ancienne Église de Saint-Pierre and walk through the ancestry park, delving into the island’s early days. Small stops are made at various artisan shops and historic sites, enriching your understanding of the island’s 400-year-old history. The guide points out secret corners and shares stories about the beautiful old houses and local customs.
The final stop is at Saint-François-de-l’Île d’Orléans, where climbing the observation tower offers a panoramic view of the landscape and river. This 4-hour tour costs $133.29, but the depth of storytelling and intimate visits justify the price. Reviewers note the variety and personal touch, with one saying, “Marc took us through the history and life of the island as we drove around it.” It’s a great choice for travelers looking for a mix of storytelling, scenic beauty, and light walking.
Bottom Line: A scenic, well-rounded experience for history and nature lovers eager to explore one of Quebec’s most historic and picturesque spots.
$133.29 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. The Canadian Museum of History is best if you want a thorough, indoor overview of Canada’s stories—great for rainy days or family groups. The Levis history tour with tasting suits those who love walking, local flavors, and a more intimate look at Quebec’s regional culture. For travelers eager for a scenic journey with a touch of history and plenty of photo opportunities, the Île d’Orléans tour offers a memorable day with a personal guide.
Think about how much time you have—if you only have a couple of hours, the Levis tour or the museum might be better. If you can spare half a day, the island tour provides a richer, more relaxed experience. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular tours in summer.
Final Thoughts
Quebec’s diverse range of historical tours means there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you prefer exploring indoors with artifacts and stories, walking through a charming town with food tastings, or cruising scenic landscapes with a knowledgeable guide, these experiences deliver authentic glimpses into Quebec’s past. For a family, the Canadian Museum of History offers engaging exhibits; for foodies and history enthusiasts, the Levis tour combines stories with regional flavors; and for those who love outdoor scenery with cultural insights, the Île d’Orléans trip is unbeatable.
We recommend booking early, especially in peak summer months, to secure your spot. Whichever tour you choose, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of Quebec’s rich cultural tapestry—one story at a time.