Quebec City: Old Quebec Crime Walking Tour with Live Show

Summary

Old Quebec’s secret stories come alive at night with actors and legends

You’ll walk Old Quebec after dark with costumed guides who bring real crime stories to life—sometimes funny, sometimes chilling. Visit sites like the old prison and Place-Royale, ask questions, and feel history breathing around you. Expect laughter mixed with goosebumps—and leave seeing these streets differently.

What’s the experience like?

There’s something about the way the cobblestones in Old Quebec echo at night — I noticed it right away, even before Jean Rattier (our “ghostly” guide, in full character) appeared out of nowhere. He had this sly grin and a voice that carried across the narrow streets, like he’d been waiting centuries for us. The air smelled faintly damp, like old stone after rain, and honestly, I felt a little jumpy every time a window creaked above us. It’s not just a walking tour; it’s more like stepping into a story you’re not sure you want to finish.

We stopped outside the old prison first — Jean told us about what went on inside, but it was Marie Rivière (his “wife”, also in costume) who really made me shiver. She described executions so matter-of-factly that I caught myself glancing over my shoulder. There were moments when the line between performance and reality blurred, especially as we wandered through Place-Royale under those yellow streetlights. You could almost hear whispers from the walls if you listened hard enough (maybe that was just my imagination running wild). A couple of kids in our group kept asking questions — Marie answered every one, never breaking character once.

I didn’t expect to laugh as much as I did — Jean has this dark humor that sneaks up on you. At one point he asked if anyone wanted to volunteer for “punishment,” and even though I tried to hide behind someone taller, he still found me. There’s something oddly comforting about being scared together with strangers; by the end, we were all swapping nervous smiles. The whole thing lasted about ninety minutes but honestly felt both longer and shorter at once. I still think about those shadows flickering on the old city walls when I walk home at night now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ghostly crime tour in Old Quebec

• Meet ghostly host
• Walk through Old Quebec
• Pass by Common prison of Quebec
• Pass by Quebec Royal Square
• Experience lugubrious atmosphere

Top questions

How long does the Old Quebec crime walking tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Is this walking tour suitable for children?

Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Are strollers or prams allowed on the tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Is there live entertainment during the tour?

Yes, live entertainment is included with costumed guides acting out stories.

Where does the tour go in Old Quebec?

The route includes stops at the common prison of Quebec and Place-Royale.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed.

Do I need to be physically fit for this walking tour?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended for travelers.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the meeting point.

How many people are needed to book this experience?

A minimum of two people per booking is required.

What’s included

Your evening includes a 90-minute guided walk through Old Quebec led by costumed actors bringing true crime tales to life—with stops at historic sites like Place-Royale and the old prison—plus live entertainment woven into every step along these storied streets.