Quebec City: Double Decker Express Tour

Imagine cruising through the charming streets of Quebec City on an open-top or traditional double-decker bus, getting an overview of its most iconic landmarks. For just about $28 per person, you get roughly an hour of sightseeing, organized by Unitours, starting right near the legendary Château Frontenac. It’s a perfect way for first-timers to orient themselves, see the city’s highlights, and decide where to explore further.

We particularly love that this tour offers top-deck views you can’t get from the ground—perfect for capturing those postcard-worthy shots of the breathtaking architecture and panoramic cityscapes. The guided commentary, available in multiple languages, makes it easier to understand the stories behind each site, even if you’re not a history buff.

One thing to keep in mind is that traffic can sometimes extend the tour beyond the scheduled 1 hour, especially during busy times. If you’re pressed for time, consider booking earlier in the day to avoid the afternoon rush. This tour is especially suitable for travelers who want a quick, relaxed introduction to Quebec’s historic core without too much walking or hassle.

In the end, this experience works best for first-time visitors, families, or anyone looking for a fun, informative overview with great photo opportunities. It’s also a good choice if you prefer sitting comfortably while learning about Quebec City’s sights.

Key Points

• Great introduction: Perfect for first-time visitors who want to get their bearings.
• Top deck views: Unique perspectives of key sights like Chateau Frontenac and Old Quebec.
• Flexible commentary: Multilingual audio guides enhance understanding.
• Time-efficient: About 1 hour, making it suitable for busy schedules.
• Traffic consideration: Expect possible delays during peak hours.
• Value for money: Affordable price with a rundown.

An In-Depth Look at the Quebec City Double Decker Tour

What’s Included and How It Works

This double-decker bus tour starts at 12 Rue Sainte-Anne, a prime location right by the Château Frontenac. The tour lasts approximately one hour, giving you a concise but thorough glance at Quebec’s most cherished sights. The experience is delivered via audio commentary that can be enjoyed through headphones, offered in several languages.

The group size is limited to 51 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere comfortable and manageable, and makes it easier for everyone to hear the guide. Travelers appreciate the convenience of mobile tickets—no need to print anything—and the tour operates weather permitting, with a clear policy for refunds or rescheduling if bad weather strikes.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See

The tour covers both the upper and lower parts of Old Quebec, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here’s what you can expect at each stop or drive-by:

• Plains of Abraham: Historically significant battlefield now offering lush, open space and historical towers. Travelers mention that driving through here gives a chance to see the city’s sprawling green spaces and historic towers, like one reviewer noted: “While driving on the plains of Abraham, you will drive by those towers.”

• Grande-Allée Street: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, cafes, and historic architecture. It’s a lively area to see the city’s social hub.

• Place d’Youville: A bustling square with a charming ambiance, perfect for people-watching and soaking in local life.

• Chateau Frontenac: The iconic hotel that defines Quebec’s skyline. The tour starts right here, making it an ideal photo op and a chance to learn about this grand hotel’s history.

• Parliament Building: A striking example of Quebec’s political history and architecture.

• Tourny Fountain & Other Landmarks: The driver may drive past notable landmarks like the Tourny Fountain and other notable buildings, offering quick but informative glimpses.

• Manège Militaire: Rebuilt after a fire, this military riding school adds both historical and architectural interest.

• Bassin Louise: A scenic waterfront area where you can admire both the city and the river.

• Lower and Upper Towns: The tour divides its focus equally, giving you a visual contrast between the old city’s historic charm and the modern vibe of the lower town.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides, with one praising Jacques Lemieux’s “tons of info,” his personable style, and flexibility during traffic delays. Conversely, some felt the audio system could be improved, noting that canned commentary lacked the personality of a live guide. One reviewer pointed out, “The information is received through ear buds and is canned, not a live person with a personality,” which highlights that an engaging guide can make a big difference.

The views from the top deck are a standout feature. As one traveler notes, “The architectural view of the city is awesome,” and many appreciated the opportunity to sit outside on the open deck—especially on hot days, as one person described, “over 32 Celsius, so this gave us a chance to cool off while enjoying the sights.”

While some found the traffic and timing frustrating, others say that starting early or in the morning can make the experience more relaxing. A couple of reviews mentioned that the tour ran longer than scheduled due to traffic, so if your schedule is tight, plan accordingly.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Efficient way to see many highlights within a short time.
• Great views from the open top deck enhance photo opportunities.
• Informative commentary makes the sights more meaningful.
• Suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
• Affordable price considering the convenience and access.

Cons:

• Can be affected by traffic delays — consider booking early or choosing an earlier time.
• Audio commentary, while available in multiple languages, can sometimes feel canned and less lively.
• Not a walking tour, so if you prefer to explore sites intimately, you’ll want to follow up on foot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-timers eager to get an overview of Quebec City’s highlights. It’s especially good if you want a relaxed, sit-back experience that takes you past the city’s most iconic sights, with easy access to photos and quick historical tidbits. Families, older travelers, or those short on time will appreciate how much ground you cover without the fatigue of walking.

If you’re a history enthusiast or someone interested in a more lively, engaging guide, this might not satisfy your craving for a personal touch. Still, most reviews mention good narration and knowledgeable drivers, making it a dependable choice.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying Your Tour

• Book early and arrive at least 20-30 minutes before departure to secure a good seat and avoid last-minute stress.
• Choose an earlier time if possible, to dodge afternoon traffic delays.
• Sit on the top deck for the best views, especially on clear days.
• Use the provided headphones correctly—be sure to insert them properly to hear the commentary.
• If visiting in hot weather, the open top can be a relief, but bring sunscreen and water.
• For a fuller experience, consider pairing this tour with additional explorations of sites like Montmorency Falls or the Citadelle.

The Sum Up

The Quebec City Double Decker Express Tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to get acquainted with one of Canada’s most historic cities. With its affordable price, stunning views, and informative commentary, it’s a smart choice for visitors who want to see the highlights without the fatigue of extensive walking. The open-top perspective makes sightseeing more memorable, especially on nice days.

While traffic delays can sometimes be a downside, booking earlier in the day or during quieter times can mitigate this. The guided narration, though sometimes canned, generally provides enough context to enrich your understanding of Quebec’s fascinating past and vibrant present.

If you’re after a convenient, family-friendly, and reasonably priced orientation, this tour suits most travelers well. Just be prepared for a quick dash through the city’s key spots, and you’ll return with plenty of great photos and ideas about where to explore next.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, most travelers find it family-friendly, especially since it’s short, comfortable, and offers plenty of photo opportunities. Check the group size if you prefer smaller groups.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a perfect quick overview without taking up your whole day.

Can I hop on and off the bus?
No, this is a fixed-route tour with a set start and end point, so it’s best enjoyed as a continuous ride.

What should I do if I can’t hear the commentary clearly?
Make sure you properly insert your headphones into the designated socket. If problems persist, alert the driver or guide for assistance.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or other poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there multilingual options?
Yes, the commentary is available in several languages, making it accessible for international travelers.

The Quebec City Double Decker Express Tour balances affordability, comfort, and a solid overview of Quebec’s highlights. It’s a great way to start your visit, orient yourself, and plan your next adventures in this captivating city.