Quebec City: Old Town Walking Tour & Funicular Ride

Summary

Walk Old Quebec’s stories, ride the funicular, see Upper Town

You’ll join a small group in Old Quebec City for a guided walk through cobbled streets and centuries-old squares, riding the funicular between Lower and Upper Towns for views over the river. Expect local stories, time to pause at landmarks like Château Frontenac and Notre-Dame Basilica, and sensory moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

We were already squinting up at the Château Frontenac when our guide, Lucie, waved us over by the old port — she had this scarf in wild colors and a laugh that carried. I could smell roasted coffee from somewhere close (maybe Paillard?) as we set off through those narrow Lower Town lanes. Place Royale felt like a movie set but with real people — an old man reading his paper on a bench, a couple arguing softly in French. Lucie pointed out where Samuel de Champlain supposedly stood, and I tried to imagine all this under snow. It was June though, so just the faint river breeze and kids chasing pigeons.

I didn’t expect to care about murals, but that giant trompe-l’oeil one made me stop — you can spot tiny details if you look long enough. The walk isn’t hard, but there are cobbles everywhere; my shoes weren’t thrilled. When we reached Quartier Petit Champlain, Lucie told us about the bakery that’s older than Canada itself (I believed her). She taught us how to pronounce it properly — Li laughed when I tried to say it in French. Eventually we squeezed into the funicular; it’s quick but those seconds rising over rooftops are weirdly magic. You get this slantwise view of the St. Lawrence River that makes you feel like you’re floating above everything for a breath or two.

Upper Town is busier — buskers near Dufferin Terrace, teenagers taking selfies with the Château behind them. Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral was open so we ducked inside for a minute; it smelled like candle wax and wood polish, cool after the sun outside. Lucie had stories about every building (she grew up here), but she let us wander too. By the end I was tired in that good way you get from walking somewhere new all morning — still thinking about that view from the funicular and how easy it was to forget which century you’re in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Old Quebec City highlights

• Meet guide at Rue Saint-Paul office
• Discover Lower Town Old Quebec
• Ride funicular to Upper Town
• Admire Château Frontenac and surroundings

Top questions

How long does the Old Quebec City walking tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours from start to finish.

Is the funicular ride included in this Quebec City tour?

Yes, entrance to the funicular is included with your booking.

Where does the walking tour of Old Quebec begin?

The meeting point is at 112 Rue Saint-Paul, near Quebec City Old Port.

What happens if the funicular isn’t running?

If unavailable, you’ll get a cab ride or ticket to use later at your discretion.

Are tips for guides required on this tour?

A tip of 15–20% is strongly recommended at the end of your visit.

Is this walking tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels though there are cobblestones throughout.

Will we visit both Upper and Lower Town during this tour?

Yes, you’ll explore both Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville).

Are service animals allowed on this Quebec City walking tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes entrance to the funicular between Lower and Upper Towns of Old Quebec City, a two-hour guided walking tour through historic districts like Place Royale and Quartier Petit Champlain with a licensed local guide leading every step—just meet at Rue Saint-Paul and everything else is taken care of.