Quebec City stands out as a top travel destination thanks to its well-preserved European charm, cobblestone streets, and stunning riverfront views. Its abundance of guided tours and unique experiences makes exploring both accessible and memorable. We particularly love the Old Quebec City Grand Walking Tour because it offers an engaging, in-depth look at the city’s highlights like the Dufferin Terrace and the Old Fortifications. Meanwhile, the Evening Gourmet Tour showcases the city’s culinary delights—perfect if you enjoy combining history with a flavorful tasting journey. For those eager for natural beauty, the Montmorency Falls with Cable Car Ride is a must, offering breathtaking views and an active way to experience Quebec’s impressive waterfalls. And for a different perspective, the Guided Sightseeing River Cruise offers scenic vistas from the water, giving you a fresh appreciation of Quebec City’s grandeur.
Whether you’re interested in history, food, or outdoor adventures, Quebec City’s diverse tours ensure a personalized experience that makes your visit unforgettable. Now, let’s dive into the details of each top-rated option.
Quick Overview of Top Tours in Quebec City
In this list, you’ll find a range of walking tours, like the Old Quebec City: Grand Walking Tour with Private Option, which offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s most famous landmarks. For those wanting a luxury experience, the Guided Tour of Fairmont Château Frontenac provides exclusive insights into this iconic hotel. If your focus is food and drink, the Evening Gourmet Tour combines culinary tastings with sightseeing, while the Island of Orleans Taste and Drink Tour offers a delightful gastronomic journey in the surrounding countryside. For outdoor lovers, the Montmorency Falls with Cable Car Ride and the Magnificent Montmorency Falls E-Bike Tour blend natural beauty with active exploration. Each tour is tailored to different interests and activity levels, ensuring there’s something for all.
1. Old Quebec City: Grand Walking Tour with Private Option
Explore Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through a detailed 2 to 2.5-hour walking tour led by an informative guide. This tour covers iconic sights like City Hall, the Dufferin Terrace, and the Place Royale, the oldest part of the city. The private option offers a more personalized experience, perfect for those seeking extra attention or flexibility. The tour’s high rating of 4.8/5 from over 2,400 reviews speaks to its popularity. The guide shares stories behind the Fortifications of Quebec and key landmarks, making history come alive. At only $27 per person, it offers great value for a comprehensive introduction to Quebec’s history and charm. Whether you’re on a quick visit or want to start your trip with a solid overview, this tour hits all the highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time visitors wanting an engaging, budget-friendly walk through Old Quebec’s most famous sights.
2. Quebec City: Guided Tour of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
At number 2, the Guided Tour of Château Frontenac offers a fascinating peek into this historic hotel, a symbol of Quebec City’s grandeur. For around $18, the hour-long tour reveals its famous visitors, historical anecdotes, and the architecture that makes it so distinctive. A lively guide in period costume helps bring the past to life, making this experience both educational and entertaining. You’ll also get access to exclusive areas normally off-limits to guests, enhancing the sense of discovery. The hotel’s exterior and interior are stunning, and the stories behind its construction and renovation are captivating. With over 2,700 reviews rating it 4.7/5, it’s a must for architecture buffs and history enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a quick, insider look at one of Quebec’s most iconic landmarks.
3. Uncover Old Quebec: Fun Walking Tour of the City with Local Guide
For a pay-what-you-wish experience, this 2-hour walking tour offers a relaxed, informal way to explore Old Quebec. Led by a passionate local, the tour covers major sights like Terrasse Dufferin and Place Royale, with plenty of time for photos and questions. What sets this tour apart is the flexibility; you can decide at the end what you think the tour was worth—making it a risk-free option to test out your interest. It’s rated 5.0/5 from nearly 600 reviews, with visitors praising the guide’s entertaining stories and local tips. The tour is particularly good for budget-conscious travelers or those who enjoy a social, informal vibe.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting an affordable, authentic introduction to Old Quebec with a friendly local guide.
4. Quebec City: Montmorency Falls with Cable Car Ride
Number 4 on our list, the Montmorency Falls with Cable Car Ride, promises spectacular scenery, especially during the spring and summer months. This 1-day tour includes a thrilling cable car ride to the top of the 272-foot waterfall with panoramic views. Once at the summit, you can walk along the trails or cross the suspension bridge directly over the falls for an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable photo opportunity. For those feeling adventurous, descending the 487 steps of the staircase offers breathtaking vistas from different angles. The park’s trails provide a peaceful escape, and the new contemplative walkway at the bottom offers a serene spot for reflection. With a 4.5/5 rating from over 2,200 reviews, this tour is highly appreciated.
Bottom Line: A must-do for natural scenery lovers and outdoor activity fans wanting an active day outside the city.
5. Private Tour: Quebec City Walking Tour
For a more tailored experience, the Private Guided Tour offers a personalized 2.5-hour exploration of Quebec’s top sights. Led by a knowledgeable guide like Guy or Carol, this tour is flexible and can be customized to your interests. You’ll visit highlights including the Old Port, Château Frontenac, and Place Royale, with insights into the city’s history from 1608 to today. The private setting means more interaction and tailored storytelling, ideal for travelers who prefer a customized experience. The reviews highlight guides as enthusiastic and very knowledgeable, and the tour’s price reflects its exclusivity at nearly $98 per person.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a personalized, in-depth introduction to Quebec City.
6. Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner – History and Food in Old Quebec City
Number 6, this 3-hour gourmet experience combines history, culture, and culinary excellence. Starting at a designated location, you’ll visit top restaurants like Le Continental, sampling five courses with drinks included. The tour also features visits to sights like Place Royale and the Château Frontenac, including a funicular ride for stunning river views. Rated 5.0/5 from over 450 reviews, guests praise the delicious food, informative guides, and intimate atmosphere with small groups capped at 10. This tour is perfect for special occasions or anyone wanting to indulge in Quebec’s vibrant food scene alongside its historic landmarks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies and those celebrating a special night out with personalized service.
7. Quebec City: Old Quebec Walking Tour with Funicular Ride
This 2 to 3-hour tour combines a classic Old Quebec walking experience with a funicular ride to the Upper Town. The licensed guide will take you through the most photogenic streets, explaining the significance of sites like Notre-Dame-des-Victoires and offering spectacular views from the fortress walls. The funicular ride adds a fun, practical element—saving you some energy while enriching your experience. With a 4.9/5 rating from hundreds of reviews, this tour balances in-depth storytelling with a touch of fun.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a thorough yet relaxed exploration with a convenient ride.
8. Quebec City: Guided Sightseeing River Cruise
Number 8 offers a breathtaking perspective on Quebec from the St. Lawrence River. This 1.5 to 3.5-hour cruise includes live commentary about the city’s landmarks like Montmorency Falls and Île d’Orléans. The outdoor terrace provides a perfect setting for sun and scenery, especially when the weather cooperates. The entertaining guides and comprehensive commentary make this tour both relaxing and informative. It’s highly rated (4.3/5 from over 2,800 reviews), making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those who want to see Quebec’s skyline from a different vantage point.
Bottom Line: Ideal for scenic views and a laid-back way to understand Quebec’s geography and history.
9. Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City
If you want to combine history and gastronomy, this 3-hour small-group tour is a winner. It includes guided visits to top sites like Place Royale and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires plus stops at four highly-rated restaurants with two entrees, main courses, and dessert. The guide shares stories about Quebec’s early settlement and its culinary traditions. Rated 5.0/5, guests love the delicious food and entertaining commentary. The tour is capped at 12 people, ensuring an intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for food lovers who want a taste of history and local cuisine in one seamless package.
10. Old Quebec: Nordic Spa Thermal Experience
For relaxation, the Nordic Spa Thermal Experience is a perfect day trip. This all-day outing includes access to Strøm Nordic Spa with its thermal pools, saunas, and relaxation areas, offering panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River. Rated 4.7/5 from over 760 reviews, it’s praised for its peaceful atmosphere and high-quality facilities. It’s ideal if you want to unwind after sightseeing or enjoy a wellness-focused day amidst Quebec’s scenic landscape.
Bottom Line: A soothing break for anyone seeking wellness and relaxation during their Quebec visit.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal Quebec City tour, consider your budget, interest, and activity level. For example, if you love history and architecture, the Old Quebec City: Grand Walking Tour or the Private Guided Tour are excellent options. For foodies, the Evening Gourmet Tour and the Combo Historical and Food Tour provide immersive culinary experiences. Outdoor lovers should check out the Montmorency Falls with Cable Car or the E-Bike Tour. If you want a relaxing day, the Nordic Spa offers a peaceful retreat.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular small-group or private tours. Consider your schedule and fitness level—some tours involve walking, stairs, or outdoor activity. For the ultimate experience, combine a guided tour with a visit to a favorite site, like the Château Frontenac or Montmorency Falls.
Final Thoughts
Quebec City offers a variety of tours that cater to history buffs, food lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and relaxation seekers. If you’re pressed for time, a quick Old Quebec walking tour or a scenic river cruise can give you a memorable snapshot. For a more immersive experience, the Gourmet food tour or the private guided tour will deeply enrich your visit.
No matter your choice, Quebec City’s authentic charm and diverse experiences make it a destination worth exploring thoroughly. Be sure to book your preferred tours early to secure the best times and avoid missing out on these top-rated experiences.