Quebec City: Old Quebec Walking Tour & Petit Champlain

Summary

Walk Old Quebec’s history from Dufferin Terrace to Petit Champlain

You’ll wander Old Quebec’s winding streets with a local guide, hear stories behind landmarks like Place-Royale and Notre-Dame Basilica, and end your walk surrounded by the charm of Petit Champlain. Expect laughter over French phrases, unexpected city sounds, and small moments that stick with you long after you’ve left these cobblestones.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the meeting point — turns out the tourist info center is tucked behind a row of trees, not right on the street like I’d pictured. There was this tiny moment of panic, but then I spotted our guide (Marie) waving at me with her bright red scarf. She joked about how everyone gets lost at least once in Old Quebec’s maze of streets. That made me feel a bit less like a clueless tourist, honestly.

We started near that massive statue by Château Frontenac. The wind off the river was sharp enough to wake you up — I could smell wood smoke somewhere, maybe from one of those old stone houses. Marie pointed out little things: the way locals nod at each other on Dufferin Terrace, or how the Basilica’s bells sound different when it’s cold. She told us stories about nuns and fur traders as we walked past the Ursuline monastery. At one point she tried to teach us a French phrase for “slippery sidewalk” (I still can’t pronounce it), and everyone laughed when I gave up halfway through.

The private walking tour felt pretty relaxed — not rushed at all. We ducked into a courtyard that looked straight out of an 18th-century painting, with stone walls that felt cool if you brushed your hand along them. In Place-Royale, there were school kids playing tag around the fountain; their voices echoed off centuries-old walls. Marie showed us the Fresque des Québécois mural and explained who all those faces were — I wouldn’t have noticed half of them without her pointing them out.

By the time we reached Petit Champlain Street, my legs were tired but in that good way you get after wandering somewhere new. The shops were just opening up and someone inside a bakery was singing along to old chanson music. I didn’t expect to feel so much warmth in such chilly air — maybe it was just being among people who love their city so much. Still thinking about that view back up toward Château Frontenac as we finished — it sort of sneaks up on you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided walking tour of Old Quebec

• Check in at tourist information center
• Start near Quebec City founder monument
• Walk along Dufferin Terrace boardwalk
• Pass by Ursuline Sisters monastery and chapel
• Visit Anglican cathedral courtyard
• Explore major landmarks at city square
• Visit Basilica Notre-Dame
• Enter Seminary courtyard
• See sights of Old Town
• View Fresque des Québécois mural
• Pass through Quebec Royal Square
• End tour on Petit-Champlain Street

Top questions

Where does the Quebec City walking tour start?

The tour starts inside the Quebec Tourist Information Centre at 12 rue Ste-Anne.

How long is the guided walking tour in Old Quebec?

The tour lasts approximately two hours.

Is this day trip suitable for families or solo travelers?

Yes, it’s ideal for families, individuals, and small groups.

What are some highlights included on this walking tour?

You’ll see Dufferin Terrace, Place-Royale, Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, and Petit Champlain District.

Does the walking tour operate in bad weather?

Yes, it operates in all weather conditions—just dress appropriately.

Are there any physical requirements for this tour?

A moderate level of fitness is recommended due to walking and some downhill sections.

Is public transportation available near the meeting point?

Yes, public transportation options are nearby.

Does this Quebec City walking tour include entry fees or lunch?

No meals are included; entry to certain sites may depend on availability during the walk.

What’s included

Your day includes a two-hour guided walking tour through Old Quebec led by a licensed professional guide. Local taxes are covered in your booking; just meet inside the tourist information center before departure and enjoy exploring with your group—no extra tickets needed along the route.