Walking tours are the smartest way to discover Quebec City’s fascinating Old Town – a compact maze of cobblestone streets packed with 400 years of history.
These intimate experiences typically last 2-3 hours and cover the essential sites while sharing stories you’d never find in guidebooks.
Tours we especially favor include the classic Old Town historical walks, which expertly connect the dots between the city’s French roots and British influence, and the excellent food-focused tours that combine local specialties with neighborhood exploration.
The evening “ghost tours” are particularly fun, mixing actual history with spine-tingling tales.
All quality tours feature passionate local guides who know their stuff and keep groups small enough for questions and conversation.
Most include stops at key UNESCO sites like the fortification walls and Place Royale.
Let’s look at Quebec City’s most worthwhile walking tours:
Key Points
- Quebec City offers a variety of guided walking tours, ranging from historical explorations to culinary experiences, often with small group sizes and knowledgeable local guides.
- Popular tour highlights include visiting the UNESCO-listed Fortifications of Québec, the iconic Château Frontenac, and the charming Terrasse Dufferin and Quartier Petit Champlain neighborhoods.
- Customizable private tours and themed tours, such as those focused on crime or religious heritage, provide personalized experiences catering to different interests.
- Guided winter walking tours and shore excursions for cruise visitors offer unique seasonal and accessibility options for exploring the city.
- Booking tours in advance, wearing comfortable footwear, and considering group discounts are recommended for an optimal walking tour experience in Quebec City.
Walking Tour Through Quebec Citys History
Quebec City’s history comes alive on this walking tour through the city’s historic quarters.
Travelers embark on a 2-hour journey, exploring significant sites like Place Royale, the Château Frontenac, and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide in period costume, the small group experience provides engaging storytelling and historical context.
Positive reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and ability to bring the city’s 400-year-old past to life.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience perfect for those looking to get an introduction to Quebec City’s rich heritage.
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Quebec City Walking Tour
On this 2-hour guided walking tour, travelers explore Quebec City’s enchanting historic quarters.
Led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, the tour showcases the city’s key attractions, including the Fortifications of Québec, the Citadelle, and the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church.
Travelers also visit Place Royale, the birthplace of French America, and other notable sites like Terrasse Dufferin and Quartier Petit Champlain.
With a maximum group size of 14, the tour provides an intimate and engaging experience, allowing participants to ask questions and learn about Quebec’s rich history and culture.
Offered by the highly-rated Tours Voir Quebec, this walking tour is a must-do for visitors seeking to enjoy the charm and legacy of Old Quebec City.
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Private Walking Tour in Old Quebec by Tours Accolade
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Old Quebec’s captivating history and architecture will find the Private Walking Tour by Tours Accolade an ideal choice.
The 100% recommended tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide, Xavier, and offers a customizable itinerary to suit personal preferences. Highlights include iconic landmarks like the Château Frontenac, Parliament Hill, and the charming Petit Champlain quarter.
The private walking tour provides hassle-free hotel pickup and includes entrance fees and gratuities, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to discover the UNESCO World Heritage site.
With a moderate fitness level required, the tour operates in all weather conditions, ensuring a memorable experience for history and culture enthusiasts.
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Private Guided Quebec City Walking Tour With Funicular Included
This private guided walking tour offers visitors an enriching exploration of Quebec City’s captivating history and architecture.
Accompanied by a licensed local guide, the 2-3 hour experience takes guests on a journey through the city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights include the iconic Fontaine de Tourny and the Parliament of Quebec, as well as a ride on the charming funicular.
The tour is highly customizable, catering to the group’s interests and preferences.
With a maximum of 8 people, this intimate walking tour provides personalized attention and insightful historical narratives.
Praised for its knowledgeable guides and memorable experiences, this tour is a must for visitors to Quebec City.
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Old Quebec City Private Walking Tour: History and Nature
Discover the captivating blend of history and nature on this private walking tour of Old Quebec City. Recommended by 100% of travelers, this 5.0-rated tour explores the UNESCO-listed Fortifications of Quebec and the charming Place Royale.
Your knowledgeable local guide will provide in-depth insights into the city’s development from the 16th century onward, bringing the past to life. Experience the interplay between geography, climate, and culture that shaped Quebec’s unique identity.
With flexible scheduling and a lowest price guarantee, this immersive tour is an excellent introduction to the wonders of Old Quebec.
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Historical Tasting Old Quebec Walking Tour
Explore the historical and culinary delights of Old Quebec City on this 3-hour walking tour.
Offered by Cicerone Tours, the Historical Tasting Old Quebec Walking Tour takes you through the charming streets of Old Town while stopping at 4 unique restaurants for tasty local specialties.
With a maximum group size of 16, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide as they share engaging stories and historical context.
While the tour leans more towards history than food, you’ll still savor delights like mushroom with maple syrup, salmon stew, and duck carpaccio.
With an average rating of 4.5/5 from 61 reviews, this tour is ideal for history buffs and those curious about Quebec’s rich culture.
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Private Tour: Quebec City Walking Tour
Although it may be tempting to explore Quebec City on one’s own, the Private Tour: Quebec City Walking Tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, this 2-hour excursion takes visitors through the UNESCO-listed Old Quebec, showcasing the Fortifications of Québec, Citadelle of Québec, and other iconic landmarks.
With a focus on customization, the tour can be tailored to individual interests, ensuring an engaging and immersive experience.
Highly rated by travelers, this tour offers a rundown of Quebec City, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors seeking an in-depth and personalized encounter with this historic destination.
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Quebec City Shore Excursion: Grand Walking Tour of Quebec City
Travelers seeking an immersive introduction to the historic charm of Quebec City can embark on the Quebec City Shore Excursion: Grand Walking Tour of Quebec City.
This highly-rated 2-hour walking tour explores the UNESCO-listed Old Quebec, showcasing the city’s fortifications, citadel, churches, and birthplace of French America. Guided by knowledgeable and enthusiastic locals, the tour provides insights into Quebec’s rich history and culture.
While some visitors noted challenges with hearing the guide due to construction noise, the majority praised the tour’s engaging storytelling and stunning city vistas.
With a maximum group size of 14, this shore excursion offers an intimate and accessible way to discover Quebec City’s architectural gems and enduring European ambiance.
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Animated Crime Walking Tour in Old Quebec
The Animated Crime Walking Tour in Old Quebec takes visitors on a 90-minute journey through the dark history of New France.
Led by costumed character guides, such as the executioner Jean Rattier and his wife Marie Rivière, the tour explores the city’s grim past, including terrible crimes, arrests, and executions.
Guests will experience a haunted neighborhood, with ghostly storytelling and live performances that mix history and mystery.
While not suitable for those with serious medical conditions or young children, the tour has received praise for its engaging approach, though some found the content overly gruesome.
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Amazing Old Quebec City Classique Walking Tour With 1 Funicular Ticket Included
This guided walking tour of Old Quebec City offers an immersive experience, providing an in-depth exploration of the city’s rich history and captivating architecture.
Led by licensed local guides, the 2-hour tour takes visitors through the charming streets, showcasing the area’s French-Canadian culture, food, and family life.
Travelers will enjoy scenic views, historical insights, and engaging storytelling, all while covering the highlights of Old Quebec City.
With a maximum of 12 guests, the tour ensures a personalized experience. Included in the price is a Funicular ticket, allowing easy access to stunning vantage points.
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the extensive walking, but the pace is enjoyable for all.
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Guided Winter Walking Tour in Old Quebec City
On a Guided Winter Walking Tour in Old Quebec City, visitors can explore the historic streets of this charming, snow-covered destination.
Offered by Cicerone Tours, the tour provides an immersive experience, led by a professional local guide. For $21.18 per person, travelers can discover the city’s picturesque architecture and landmarks, such as the nearby Place d’Armes.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 people, ensuring a personalized experience. With 100% positive reviews and a 5-star rating, this winter walking tour in Old Quebec City is a must-do activity.
The tour starts at the Centre Infotouriste de Québec and ends at the Royal Place, allowing visitors to fully explore the enchanting winter wonderland.
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Quebec City Shore Excursion: Private Guided Quebec City Walking Tour
Travelers can embark on a private guided walking tour of Quebec City’s charming streets and hidden walkways.
The 3-hour tour features a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence from the local tourism office. With departure times in the morning and afternoon, the customizable itinerary allows groups to focus on their interests.
The licensed local guide will provide historical insights as they navigate the cobblestone paths, and the tour is accessible for wheelchair users, strollers, and service animals.
Pickup is conveniently offered at the cruise terminal, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior to the experience.
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Old Québec & French Canada Private History Walking Tour
Exploring Quebec City’s rich history and cultural heritage, the Old Québec & French Canada Private History Walking Tour offers an immersive experience for travelers.
Praised for its knowledgeable guide, Michel, the tour covers Quebec’s history from founding to present, intertwining local and world events.
With a 5.0/5 rating based on 30 reviews, the tour is 100% recommended by travelers who appreciated the personalized approach and the guide’s engaging storytelling.
Priced at $200.87 per group (up to 8 people), the tour is accessible for strollers but not wheelchair-friendly.
Ideal for history buffs and those interested in Quebec’s culture and ties to America, this walking tour provides an enlightening and enjoyable exploration of the city.
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Quebec City Shore Excursion: Private Walking Tour
Visitors exploring Quebec City can embark on the Quebec City Shore Excursion: Private Walking Tour, a comprehensive exploration of the historic city.
This 3-hour walking tour, recommended by 100% of travelers, delves into Quebec City’s rich history and culture. Guests will discover the UNESCO-listed Old Quebec, with its charming narrow streets and stone buildings, including the Fortifications of Quebec and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church.
Key sites like Place Royale, Plains of Abraham, and the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac are also visited. Knowledgeable local guides provide live commentary in English or French, ensuring an educational and entertaining experience.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, comfortable walking shoes are recommended to navigate the cobblestone streets.
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A Grand Walking Journey in Quebec City
Embarking on a comprehensive exploration of Quebec City’s historic charms, the A Grand Walking Journey tour offers an immersive experience for those seeking to uncover the city’s rich heritage.
Priced at $133.81 per person, the tour is led by knowledgeable and engaging guides, who bring the city’s past to life through captivating narratives.
With a 5.0 rating from previous travelers, the tour’s highlights include a ride on the funicular and a stroll through the charming Rue St. Jean.
Boasting free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, the tour provides a convenient and flexible option for discovering Quebec City on foot.
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Quebec City Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour
This comprehensive Quebec City Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour provides a unique and engaging way for travelers to discover the city’s top attractions and hidden gems.
Accessible through a self-guided mobile app, the tour allows participants to explore at their own pace, pausing and resuming as desired.
With a focus on the Champlain Monument, Petit-Champlain, and Palace Royal, the tour offers a well-rounded overview of Quebec City’s sights.
Suitable for solo travelers, friends, and families, this laidback game-like experience adds excitement and independence to sightseeing.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation and ideal for most travelers, with a 92% recommendation rate from previous participants.
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Historic District of Old Quebec Walking Tour (3h)
The Historic District of Old Quebec walking tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s storied past. This 3-hour journey showcases the UNESCO-listed Old Town, led by a top-tier guide with deep expertise in Quebec City’s history and culture.
Covering must-see landmarks like the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, the tour provides engaging storytelling and a personalized experience. Priced at $251.99 for up to 10 people, the tour is accessible to all, with wheelchair-friendly routes and moderate fitness required.
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the tour’s ability to bring the city’s rich heritage to life. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive Quebec City experience, this walking tour is a top-notch choice.
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Québec City Self-Guided Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt
Whereas guided tours offer a structured exploration of Québec City’s landmarks, the Québec City Self-Guided Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt provides a unique, interactive way to discover the city at one’s own pace.
This self-guided tour allows visitors to explore over 20 challenges throughout the charming Historic District of Old Québec, accessible via a mobile site. The tour is free, wheelchair and stroller accessible, and requires only a moderate fitness level.
Participants can start at the Fontaine de Tourny and return to the same point at the end. With no entry fees and the flexibility to explore at their leisure, this scavenger hunt-style tour is an excellent option for those seeking a personalized Québec City experience.
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Religious Heritage Walking Tour (3h)
Guided by the experienced Tommy Byrne, the Religious Heritage Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of Québec City’s rich religious history and architecture.
Spanning 3 hours, this private tour takes visitors through the old city district, visiting key religious landmarks like the Saint François de Laval Monument and St. Jean Baptiste Church.
Priced at $251.99 for up to 10 people, the tour is accessible to wheelchair users and those with strollers.
With flexibility to adjust the itinerary, the tour provides a comprehensive look at Québec City’s religious heritage, complemented by included bottled water and gratuities.
Available year-round, this moderate-intensity walking tour is an excellent way to uncover the spiritual side of this historic Canadian city.
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Private Walking Tour of Quebec With Licensed Tour Guide
A comprehensive Private Walking Tour of Quebec City with a licensed guide offers visitors an immersive exploration of the historic old town, captivating cathedrals, and vibrant public squares.
The 2.5-hour tour allows guests to discover Quebec’s rich history and colonial heritage, with panoramic views from the Terrasse Dufferin.
The customizable itinerary caters to personal interests, and entrance fees are included.
While food, drinks, and transportation aren’t provided, the tour ends conveniently back at the meeting point.
With a 5-star rating and positive review, this private tour promises an engaging and informative experience in the heart of Quebec City.
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Break Down
Quebec City’s walking tours offer visitors a chance to explore the historic streets and landmarks of this charming city. From private guided tours to self-guided options, there are plenty of ways to take in the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in architecture, religion, or simply taking in the scenic views, these walking tours provide an engaging and informative experience.