17 Québec City Tours That Are Actually Worth It (From a Repeat Visitor)

If you’re considering booking a tour in Québec City, but aren’t sure which ones are actually worth your time, I’ve got you!

After visiting Québec City multiple times and exploring most of the historic center on foot, I can say with confidence that joining guided tours in Old Québec can make your experience so much richer.

From exploring the cute alleyways and cobblestone streets with a local guide to learning about the history inside places like the Morrin Centre and the Plains of Abraham, there’s just so much to take in!

You can meet fellow travelers on a day trip to Montmorency Falls or enjoy moments that make the city feel even more alive.

Speaking from experience, signing up for at least one of these activities will immerse you in Québec’s French culture just a bit more than simply walking around. You’ll be turning experiences into memories you’ll cherish for years!

But with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start, and I get that!

When I was planning my first trip to Québec City, I also felt a bit overwhelmed with the amount of things to see/do, and I only had 3-4 days to work with to do what I could to experience the city.

That’s why, after a few trips to Québec City, I’ve rounded up the tours I’d genuinely recommend to a friend, whether you want to dive into the city’s layered history, get a taste for the best of the best French Canadian cuisine, or explore the surrounding nature.

Let’s make planning your Québec City trip feel easier (and way more exciting)!

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Best Old Québec Walking Tours to Discover the Historic Center

1. Québec City Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

If you do just one tour in Québec City, let it be this one.

A walking tour was honestly my favorite way to discover Québec City, and it’s pretty much the same for any new destination. A walking tour, like this one, brings the magic of Old Québec City to life through local stories, hidden details, and centuries of history you’d never know just by walking around on your own.

On this 2-hour guided walk, you’ll explore both the Upper and Lower towns with a local guide who shares everything from architectural highlights to fascinating moments in the city’s past, like how Québec City evolved under French and British rule.

It’s a great way to get your bearings, especially if it’s your first time in Québec City!

I always recommend a walking tour early in your trip, as it gives you context, local tips, and a chance to ask questions (or get restaurant recs!) from someone who actually lives there.

Plus, if you’re traveling solo, it’s an easy and fun way to meet other travelers along the way.

“Excellent history of the old city and the pertinent areas of the old city. Jim was a fascinating story teller and historian.”

Len (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your walking tour here

If this is your first time planning a trip to Québec City, this step-by-step guide to visiting Old Québec City walks you through everything from when to go to how many days to stay and how to build your itinerary around a few unforgettable tours.

2. Guided Tour of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Québec City

⭐️ Rating: 4.6 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1 hour | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

The most photographed hotel in the world – the Château Frontenac is one of the most popular spots in Québec City, and yes, you can go inside for a tour!

This guided tour gives you a closer look at what makes this hotel so special, which makes this one of the most unique walking tours in Québec City.

Led by a costumed guide, this tour brings you through parts of the building’s interior while sharing stories about the architecture, famous guests, and the important role the hotel has played in the city’s history.

If you’re curious about the history behind this postcard-perfect landmark, this is a fun and informative way to explore it from the inside!

“This is my second time doing this tour! It is fantastic! So informative and fun! Highly recommend! It’s also the perfect length!”

Melissa (read more reviews here)

✅ RESERVE your tour here

To make the most of your time, especially if it’s your first visit, it helps to know the best areas to stay in Québec City so you can choose a neighborhood close to your tour meeting points!

And if you’re someone who loves cozy, charming, and unique stays, you’ll want to check out my list of the best boutique hotels in Old Québec City, so you’ll not only stay in a historic hotel, but one centered close to all the action!

3. Old Québec City Walking Tour with Funicular Ticket

⭐️ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

If you want a walking tour that shows you all the most beautiful corners of Old Québec and gives you a cool experience along the way, this is it.

You’ll explore both Upper and Lower towns with local guides, who know the stories behind everything you’ll see on this tour, and instead of walking the steep hill, you’ll ride the funicular down.

It’s a fun way to see the city from a new angle!

I’ve walked down these streets many times, and I’ve also taken the funicular, and obviously, the funicular adds something different because the city views from above are so worth it!

You’ll also visit places like Place Royal, Petit Champlain (one of Canada’s most beautiful shopping streets), and other key spots in Old Québec, all while learning the stories behind the buildings and the people who shaped the city.

Excellent tour. Very informative. Covered history of Quebec. Saw several of the major sites. Our tour guide, Muriel was knowledgeable and friendly. Well worth the money.

suzanne (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your tour spot here

Best Québec City Boat Tours

4. Québec City Guided Sightseeing Cruise

⭐️ Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1.5 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

Here’s a relaxed way to take in Québec City views from the St. Lawrence River, gliding along the water on a 1.5-hour cruise.

On this cruise/tour, you’ll pass by iconic views of the Château Frontenac and even be able to catch a glimpse of Montmorency Falls and Île d’Orleans, nearby.

I personally love walking tours, but adding a boat cruise like this gives the city a whole new dimension.

It’s calming, scenic, and you get stories from a guide dressed as explorer Louis Joliet, which brings a little bit of history to life in a fun way!

Whether you want a fresh angle on famous sights or simply to float and relax for a while, this cruise delivers!

“Lovely trip, the guide was knowledgeable and spoke well. It was a nice relaxin time. Would recommend.”

Jason (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your spot on the cruise here

5. Québec City: Evening Cocktail Cruise with Live DJ

⭐️ Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 – 3.5 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

Here’s a totally different way to experience Québec City, as the city lights come alive around you.

Settle in on the open deck area of this boat for an evening cruise on the St. Lawrence River, with a live DJ setting the mood while sipping on your cocktail (included in your ticket, depending on which tour option you choose), and beautiful views of the city that simply feel dreamy.

You’ll cruise past must-see landmarks like the Château Frontenac, plus the glowing of Québec City’s historic skyline, and much more while the sun sets its beautiful light on everything.

If you’ve spent your day walking all over, this is the best night activity to change the pace a bit, unwind, look out at the skyline, and even dance a little!

“I loved this experience, all staff was so nice and the the view was amazing. So good music and the drinks were good and not expensive.”

Sergio (read more reviews here)

✅ SAVE YOUR SEAT on this night cruise

6. Whale Watching Tour from Québec City with Bus Transportation

⭐️ Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 11 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

Did you know you can do some whale watching, only a short ride away from Québec City? Well, you can!

On arguably one of the best day tours from Québec City, you’ll head out early from Québec City on a coach bus that will take you to Baie-Sainte-Catherine and into the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park.

Then, you’ll get to choose between two different boats to hop on, so that you can get even closer to whales, seals, and more!

Tours are led by nature experts, ready to guide, entertain, and educate you with interesting stories about the marine environment and the giant creatures you’re spotting.

If you don’t get lucky with whale sightings, they’ll offer another cruise, free of charge. What do you have to lose?

“The views are beautiful! The guide was very knowledgeable, helpful, personable, and it was fun to be on the tour with her. We are thankful we took the tours advice to dress warmly, in layers for the experience. We look forward to returning to do this again in the future.”

Barbara (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your whale watching tour here

Best Québec City Bus Tours and Hop-On Hop-Off Options

If you’re looking beyond the city, these day tours from Québec City make it easy to explore nearby gems with ease!

7. Québec City Tours Hop-On Hop-Off

⭐️ Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

If your feet are tired after the first day or so, but you want to keep exploring the city’s best sights in a relaxed and fun way, consider a hop-on-hop-off bus that gives you that freedom!

With multiple stops around Lower and Upper Town, like near the Château Frontenac, Crescent Street, Notre-Dame, and more, you can stay on board the whole loop for a great overview, or hop off to dive deeper into the spots that catch your eye.

It’s not just useful, it’s also smart if you want to catch a break from the uphill streets! I honestly used to think hop-on-hop-off buses were super touristy and not worth it, but after finally getting on one myself, I have to include it in this list.

It’s so worth it if you’re tired or you want to see the sights in your absolute leisure, which is perfectly fine.

Plus, it can give you some ideas on where you want to stop for lunch based on the places that you drive past, that maybe you would’ve not seen if you were just walking by.

“Great way to see the city. Loved being able to sit on upper deck to see the sights. Recommend if you are visiting Quebec.”

Terri (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your spot on the hop-on-hop-off bus here

8. Best of Québec City: Panoramic Bus Tour with Local Guide

⭐️ Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

If you want to see highlights of Québec City without doing a ton of walking, this guided bus tour is a great choice!

Ride comfortably while a local guide shares stories and insights as you pass major landmarks, including the Plains of Abraham, the Parliament building, and more.

This tour is especially great if you only have a few hours, or if you just feel like skipping some of the walking without sacrificing the exploring.

“The guide was very professional, entertaining, knowledgeable and friendly. He always made sure that everyone was taken care of.”

jessamine (read more reviews here)

✅ RESERVE your seat for this bus tour

Best Québec City Food Tours

9. Old Québec City Food and Drink Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

This food tour is a fun and filling way to experience Old Québec, especially if you’re curious about what even French Canadian/Québecois cuisine is (and tastes) like.

On this food tour, you’ll walk through the historic center while tasting traditional dishes like pâte chinois and maple taffy, plus pastries and even a sip of local wine or gin if you choose the upgraded option!

What makes tours like this memorable is how they blend history, food, and local flavor all in one.

You’ll get to be outdoors and active, but also well fed, as you learn from your guide the history of such foods, their influence, and the history that is tightly connected to the history of how Québec City came to be, as well as what modern dining traditions and manners are like amongst Québecers.

“Our guide was wonderful.. He was funny, very informative, insider local details about Quebec. Tour included light walking, great restaurants, tasty nice variety of food and drinks.”

Janet (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your spot on the next food tour here

Many of these food stops are also included in my guide to the best things to do in Old Québec City if you’re planning to explore more on your own after your tour ends!

And if you’re wondering what some must-eat foods to have in Québec City are, you’ll definitely want to get my FREE guide below!

10. Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner – History and Food in Old Québec City

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

Join a food tour that combines delicious local dishes with history, storytelling, and a relaxed vibe on this unique dinner experience in Québec City!

On this food experience, you’ll walk through Old Québec with a guide while enjoying a multi-course meal spread across different restaurants, learning about the city as you go!

There’s nothing quite like pairing memories with flavors, as you share a meal with a local guide and fellow travelers, equally interested in the history of the city (and good food!).

It’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve packed your bags!

“Carol was an excellent guide. Food was amazing and the added benefit of touring different areas of Old Quebec and hearing of the history of this area made this experience one we will fondly remember.”

Kelly (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your seat for this history-infused food tour

11. Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Québec City

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

You’ll get your steps in and your appetite satisfied with this small-group walking/food tour that mixes the best of Québec City’s history and top-rated restaurants into one memorable experience.

Expect to stop for 2 entrées, two mains, and a dessert at spots that locals visit and rave about, all while your guide fills in the stories behind the landmarks that you’ll be walking past.

Plus! You’ll ride the funicular as part of the route, so views will also be served!

This tour is a great option if you want to experience the local food scene without giving up sightseeing time, plus the group size is kept small, and the pacing is relaxed, so you won’t feel rushed.

“Our guide, Lynn, was friendly and very knowledgeable. The restaurants we visited were delicious and creative. We didn’t want the tour to end.”

Debra (read more reviews here)

✅ RESERVE your spot on the next food tour here

If you only have a few days in town, you might want to follow this 3-day Québec City itinerary to help you structure your days around the tours you pick!

Best Québec City Ghost Tours

12. Québec Interactive Street Theatre: “Crimes in New France”

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

If you’re looking for something a little different to do at night, this tour blends storytelling, history, and theater into one really fun experience.

On this ghost tour, you’ll follow a costumed guide through the streets of Old Québec as they bring the darker side of the city’s past to life, with stories of crime, execution, legends, and historical figures from the days of New France.

This tour is part ghost story, part history lesson, but it’s such a fun tour to join if you’re into the creepier side of history, while walking the same streets as those figures did once upon a time.

Ghost tours are such an underhyped activity for some reason (I love them lol), and even though they end up not being as scary, a tour like this, where the guides come dressed in historical clothing and are actually pretty good at getting into character, makes the experience entertaining!

“The actors were great! The number of places we saw and the different routes we took to get from place to place was great”

Michelle (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your spot on the next ghost tour

Best Québec City Bike Tours

13. Historical Lower Town & Neighborhoods Bike Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

This chill bike ride through Québec City’s Lower Town shows you a side of the city most people walk right past.

You’ll bike through the cobbled streets of Place Royale, the spot where French colonists settled in 1609, pedal by Petit Champlain, and cruise along the river’s edge with views of the St. Charles River and historic neighborhoods.

Bikes (or e-bikes), helmets, water, snacks, and even hotel pick up are included for a smooth, hassle-free experience.

It’s a great mix of fresh air, exercise, and local storytelling, so if you like biking, consider joining!

“Fantastic tour today and we saw so much of the city on bike. We especially loved our enthusiastic and knowledgeable tour guide Annabelle.”

Steve (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your spot on the bike tour here

If you’re still deciding whether Québec City is the right fit for your next trip, I break it all down in this honest take on whether Québec City is worth visiting, including what surprised me and what might surprise you, too.

14. Québec City: Electric Bike Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

This electric bike tour is a fun and easy way to explore some of Québec City’s most scenic areas, without the uphill effort.

You’ll ride along the St. Lawrence River, coast through the Plains of Abraham, and pass sites like Promenade Samuel de Champlain, the Citadelle, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

It’s a small group experience with everything included: bike, helmet, water, and an experienced local guide.

It’s a leisurely way to cover more ground, and it’s perfect if you’re curious about the city’s geography, want a fresh breeze, and enjoy learning history, without breaking much of a sweat!

“It was so much fun! Lots of riding, so it’s good exercise, but not too hard because it’s an e-bike, so it’s suited for all fitness levels. Our guide Danielle was very knowledgeable and friendly. You get to see a lot of the city and hear about the history of the area. I recommend this highly!”

Tina (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your e-bike tour here

15. Québec City: Bike Excursion to Montmorency Falls

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

This half-day bike tour takes you beyond the city to one of Québec’s most stunning natural sights, Montmorency Falls!

You’ll follow a mostly flat and scenic route along the St. Lawrence River to reach the falls, which are actually taller than Niagara! Once there, you’ll have time to walk around the area, take photos from the suspension bridge, and explore a bit before heading back by bike.

It’s a great way to mix a bit of movement, fresh air, and nature with your city trip. The pace is relaxed, the route is safe, and your guide makes sure you’re comfortable the whole way.

“This was a wonderful excursion for either beginner or experienced cyclists that will take you through the heart of Quebec City and out to the falls. The pace is pretty good and the guides will work with you depending on skill level.”

Eric (read more reviews here)

✅ RESERVE your seat on the next bike tour to Montmorency Falls

You’ll also find more options for excursions like Montmorency Falls, Île d’Orléans, and more in this list of unmissable day trips from Québec City, so make sure to check it out!

Best Day Tours from Québec City to Montmorency Falls, Île d’Orléans and More

16. Québec City: Island of Orléans Taste Trail

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

Wondering what Québec’s wine region is like? This half-day tour to the city of Île d’Orleans is a peaceful and beautiful island known as Québec’s culinary hotspot.

On this tour, you’ll ride in comfort on an air-conditioned bus and stop by to check out local producers, sampling everything from handmade chocolates and nougats to apple cider and wine.

Your guide will also share interesting facts about the island’s past and why it’s such an important part of Québec’s cultural roots.

It’s a perfect half-day escape to charming, rural Québec in the most delicious way, without needing to drive yourself, plus you’ll get to taste local favorites, meet artisans, and see a different side of the region!

“The Island of Orleans was absolutely beautiful! We traveled in October and the colours of autumn were out in full force! This was a perfect way to see some of the island and also taste some of its offerings.”

Eran (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your spot on the next food tour in Île d’Orleans here

17. Guided Hike in Jacques-Cartier National Park

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4-8 hours | 💻 Check Rates and Availability

Another fun half-day escape takes you out of the city and into a stunning natural valley, just an hour north of Québec City.

The guided portion of the tour lasts around four hours, with easy-to-moderate hiking through the forest and alongside the river, with epic views.

In between, you’ll have time to try local foods and drinks, as well as enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic lunch spot! Afterward, there’s free time to explore the park further before the return trip.

You’ll leave from Old Québec City in a comfortable minibus and meet your guide, who knows the best trails and the park’s history.

The full experience can take nearly 8 hours, including transportation and optional solo exploring.

“Perfect way to spend a day outside of the city. Our guide was super nice and had a little surprise 10 minutes into our hike. He packed up lunch as well for after our hike. The hike itself was easy, but afterwards he gives your time to either take a hike on your own or go kayaking. Bring bathing suits if you plan on getting in the water. Bug spray as well!! Book this tour!!”

bri (read more reviews here)

✅ BOOK your spot on the next hiking tour to Jacques-Cartier National Park

How to choose the right tour for you

With so many tours to choose from, it helps to pause and think about what kind of experience you really want while you’re in Québec City.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning your second or third trip, here are a few simple ways to figure out which tour is right for you.

Are you visiting for the first time?

Start with a walking tour. It’s the best way to get your bearings, hear stories that bring the city to life, and get local tips you won’t find in guidebooks.

Plus, you’ll cover both Upper and Lower Town without feeling rushed.

Ready to book your Québec City tour (and start your adventure)?

By now, you’ve seen how many great ways there are to experience Québec City, especially Québec City walking tours, food tours that involve the city’s history, nature escapades, or something a little more offbeat.

Choosing a tour (or 2!) is such a fun way to get more out of your trip and see the city from a deeper, more local perspective.

If one stood out to you, I definitely recommend booking it in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the busy season.

Tours there tend to fill up quickly, and you don’t want to miss out!

If you’re still in planning mode, here’s what to check out next:

• Book your hotel in Old Québec City, the most charming and convenient area to stay.
• See my best tips for getting around the city easily
• Explore my favorite day trips from Québec City for even more things to do outside the historic center!

And if you’re planning to continue your journey through Canada, here’s exactly how to take the train from Québec City to Montréal, complete with booking tips and what to expect on board!

There’s something really special about this place, and I hope this post helped make your upcoming trip feel a little more real, a little more exciting, and a lot easier to plan.

To more travel moments like these,