Quebec City: Old Town Food & History Walking Tour with Wine

Summary

Old Quebec flavors and stories on a walking food tour with wine

You’ll wander Old Quebec’s cobbled streets with a local guide, tasting five gourmet courses paired with wine at top restaurants. Ride the funicular down to Petit Champlain, hear stories behind centuries-old landmarks, and share laughs over dessert as city lights flicker along the St Lawrence River.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely made it past the mural in Old Quebec when our guide, Marc, stopped to point out a tiny detail — a painted cat tucked near someone’s shoe. “Locals say it brings luck,” he grinned, then shrugged like maybe he wasn’t sure if he believed it either. That set the tone right away: not just facts, but little things you’d only notice if you lived here (or had Marc leading you around). The air smelled faintly of wood smoke — or maybe that was just my imagination mixing with the cold.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a food tour. At Le Continental, I tried to pronounce “tourtière” properly and pretty much failed — Marc laughed but showed me how to say it without making me feel silly. The crust was buttery and the filling surprisingly peppery; paired with a glass of local red, it felt like winter comfort even though it was only September. Between bites, we wandered through Place-Royale and heard about the first French settlers — honestly, I hadn’t realized how much of North America’s story started right here.

The funicular down to Petit Champlain was running (thankfully — those stairs looked brutal), and from the bottom you could smell bread baking somewhere nearby. Someone in our group said it reminded them of their grandmother’s kitchen. I caught myself watching people out for an evening stroll along Dufferin Terrace, lights glinting off the St Lawrence River below. There was this moment of quiet where nobody talked; we were all just looking out at Lévis across the water. I still think about that view sometimes.

By dessert — something creamy and maple-sweet at a spot whose name I’ve already forgotten — we ended up talking about language politics and hockey with Marc outside Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral. It wasn’t rushed; nobody seemed in a hurry to leave even after four hours together. So yeah, if you’re curious about Quebec City’s food scene or its history (and don’t mind your jeans fitting tighter after), this day trip is worth every step.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Historical and culinary tour of Old Quebec

• See beautiful mural in Old Quebec City
• Discover birthplace of New French North America
• Explore history of Little Champlain area
• Take Funiculaire to lower town
• Enjoy view of St Lawrence River and Lévis
• Dine at Le Continental with wine pairings
• Walk to Quebec City Hall
• Discuss Notre Dame and religious influences

Top questions

How long is the Old Quebec City food tour?

The tour lasts approximately four hours from start to finish.

Is wine included in this Quebec City food tour?

Yes, selected wine pairings are included throughout the five-course experience.

Does the tour include stops at major attractions?

Yes, you’ll visit landmarks like Place-Royale, Petit Champlain District, Dufferin Terrace, and Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral.

What happens if the funicular is closed?

If the funicular isn’t running, cab transport will be arranged or you’ll receive a ticket for later use if you prefer to walk up.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?

You can advise dietary restrictions or allergies at booking; accommodations are made when possible.

How many people are on each tour group?

The maximum group size is 12 people per booking.

Is there much walking involved?

A moderate amount of walking is required; comfortable shoes are recommended.

What should I wear for this Quebec City food tour?

The dress code is smart casual; dress appropriately for weather conditions as tours run year-round.

What’s included

Your evening includes all gourmet tastings across four or five top-rated restaurants in Old Quebec City—two entrées, two main courses, dessert—with carefully chosen wine pairings at each stop. You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide throughout your walk between historic sites and neighborhoods. A funicular ticket is provided for easy access between upper and lower town areas.