Quebec City isn’t just about historic streets and charming architecture; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy regional wines. The fertile lands around the city, especially Ile d’Orleans, produce some of the most interesting wines in Quebec, making guided tours a must for wine lovers. We particularly like the Wine Tasting on Ile d’Orleans, which combines scenic beauty with intimate tastings at three different vineyards—no worries about driving, as transfers are included. It’s a relaxed way to learn about local wines while soaking in the island’s pastoral charm.
If you prefer a shorter, more focused experience, the Quebec City: Island of Orleans Wine Tour offers a guided look at three vineyards with a focus on the stunning landscapes and a bit of local history. For those seeking something different, the Quebec City Sunset Sea-Kayaking Tour with Mapple Wine combines outdoor adventure with wine tasting, offering a memorable sunset paddle with a glass of Port in hand. Each experience provides a unique way to enjoy Quebec’s wine scene, whether through vineyard visits, scenic paddling, or insider stories.
1. Wine Tasting on Ile d’Orleans
At number one, this Wine Tasting on Ile d’Orleans offers a comprehensive day-trip that combines scenic exploration with wine education. For around $96.65 per person, you get approximately four hours of small-group touring that visits three different vineyards—Domaine Sainte-Famille, Vignoble du Mitan, and Isle de Bacchus Vinery. Each stop includes tastings of their signature wines, along with behind-the-scenes insights into the winemaking process. The relaxed pace allows for shopping at each winery, which is perfect if you want to bring home a souvenir bottle.
What sets this tour apart is its personalized small-group format, with a maximum of 13 guests, ensuring everyone gets attention. The guide shares insider stories about the island’s history and winemaking traditions, making it more than just a tasting. The reviews highlight the friendly guide Celine, and the scenic, well-organized stops. A typical comment: “The three vineyards have a pleasant environment and offer generous samples.” The only potential downside? If you’re hoping for a long day, four hours might feel quick, but it’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those wanting a deep dive into Ile d’Orleans wines with the comfort of transportation included. It’s especially good if you enjoy small groups and personalized attention.
2. Quebec City: Island of Orleans Wine Tour
At number two, the Quebec City: Island of Orleans Wine Tour provides a slightly shorter, three-hour experience focused on exploring three vineyards in the region. Priced at $94 per person, this tour emphasizes guided vineyard visits and offers a good overview of the local wine production. You’ll also get to see some of the beautiful landscapes and historic houses that dot the island, making the experience both scenic and educational.
This tour’s strength lies in its guided narrative, which mixes wine tasting with local history and surprising facts about Ile d’Orleans. While it doesn’t specify which vineyards are visited, the focus on small-group exploration ensures a more intimate experience than larger tours. Reviewers mention discovering “beautiful landscapes and wine secrets,” making it appealing for travelers interested in both scenery and culture.
Bottom line: If you prefer a shorter, more curated tour with an emphasis on the scenery and local stories, this tour offers good value and a quick yet enriching experience.
3. Quebec City Sunset Sea-Kayaking Tour with Mapple Wine
Number three on our list, the Sunset Sea-Kayaking Tour with Mapple Wine offers a different way to experience Quebec’s natural beauty. Priced at $64, it lasts about 2.5 hours and combines outdoor activity with a relaxing break. You’ll paddle on the St. Lawrence River, getting close to Orleans Island, with all equipment provided. The highlight is taking a pause on the water to sip a glass of Mapple wine or fruit juice as the sun sets behind the island.
This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a bit of adventure along with their wine. It’s an easy paddle, suitable for beginners, and provides a unique perspective of the river and island. Some reviews note the peaceful setting and the fun of paddling close to wildlife and shoreline views. The inclusion of a glass of Port wine during the break makes it a charming way to cap off an outdoor outing.
Bottom line: For those looking for a memorable outdoor experience combined with wine, this tour offers excellent value and a relaxed, scenic adventure.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Quebec City
When choosing between these options, consider your interests and schedule. The Wine Tasting on Ile d’Orleans provides a full, immersive day with multiple vineyard visits—great for connoisseurs or those wanting a relaxed day on the island. The Island of Orleans Wine Tour is better if you want a shorter, focused trip that still covers the highlights. Meanwhile, the Sunset Sea-Kayaking suits active travelers seeking a mix of outdoor fun and wine, especially if you’re visiting in summer.
For budget-conscious travelers, the kayaking tour offers a unique experience at a lower price, but it’s less about tasting extensively and more about the adventure. If your goal is to learn about Quebec’s wine scene while enjoying the scenic landscape comfortably, the first tour strikes a nice balance. Advanced planners should book early, especially during peak season, to secure spots on these popular experiences.
In summary, Quebec City offers a variety of ways to enjoy its regional wines—from leisurely vineyard visits to outdoor paddle and sip adventures. If you’re after a comprehensive tasting experience, the Wine Tasting on Ile d’Orleans is the top pick. For a shorter, scenic journey, the Vineyard Tour delivers a quick but rich taste of the island’s charm. And for those craving outdoor activity with a splash of wine, the sunset kayaking trip adds a memorable twist. Whichever you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out.