3 Days in Quebec City: Perfect Itinerary First‑Time Visitors
Why 3 days in Quebec City Is Perfect for your visit
Quebec City
Our family loves Europe — the history, the charm, the architecture — but not the long flights or the jet lag. When my son Finn asked to take a summer trip together in mid‑June, Quebec City immediately came to mind. Everyone says it feels like Europe in North America… and they’re right.
Quebec City blends French and British history, cobblestone streets, incredible food, and postcard‑perfect views — all without crossing the Atlantic. My basic French got us through just fine, and as soon as I attempted a “bonjour,” locals kindly switched to English. The warmth and hospitality reminded me so much of our time in France earlier this year.
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Top Quebec City Tours We Loved
Old Quebec City Walking Tour – Highly rated, great for first‑timers. Book here → Walking Tour
Montmorency Falls + Sainte‑Anne‑de‑Beaupré Tour – Easy transportation + stunning views. Book here → Montmorency Falls
Check out my guide -> Best Points Credit Cards for Travel
Quick Overview: What to See in 3 Days
Old Quebec (Upper & Lower Town)
Château Frontenac & Dufferin Terrace
Montmorency Falls
Basilica of Sainte‑Anne‑de‑Beaupré
Local food + shopping
Historic ruins beneath the boardwalk
Scenic viewpoints of the Saint Lawrence River
Where to Stay in Quebec City
We stayed at Hotel PUR, a Marriott property just outside the city walls. I originally hoped to stay inside Old Quebec, but finding an affordable room with two beds in June was tricky. My 19‑year‑old prefers space, so we chose a larger room a short walk away — and he said it was absolutely worth it.
Our spacious room
Our room at Hotel Pur (Marriott Property in Quebec City)
Where to Stay in Quebec City
Hotel PUR, Quebec, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel (your stay) Check prices → Expedia
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (iconic splurge) Check prices → Expedia
Hôtel Manoir Victoria (mid‑range inside the walls) Check prices → Expedia
Getting From the Airport
We took a flat‑rate taxi (about 25 minutes). They accept credit cards, and tipping is customary just like in the U.S.
You can also pre‑book an airport transfer: Book airport transfer → Transfers
Day 1: Exploring Old Quebec
Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it truly feels like stepping back in time. The original city gates from the 1700s still stand, and wandering through them feels magical.
We spent our first day exploring the cobblestone streets, shops, and viewpoints. This is also when we took our Historical Walking Tour, which was a fantastic introduction to the city’s layout and history.
Recommended Tours for Day 1
Old Quebec City Walking Tour – Perfect for first‑timers. Book here → Quebec Walking Tour
Visit Ice Hotel (in winter) – Fun option if you want something unique. Book here → Ice Hotel
Day 2: Montmorency Falls & Basilica of Sainte‑Anne‑de‑Beaupré
Me at Montmorency Falls
This was our big sightseeing day, and it was one of our favorites.
We booked a Montmorency Falls + Sainte‑Anne‑de‑Beaupré bus tour, which made everything easy. Montmorency Falls is taller than Niagara Falls, and the views are incredible. The Basilica is stunning — peaceful, ornate, and absolutely worth the visit.
Finn loved both stops, and the guided commentary added so much context.
Recommended Tours
Montmorency Falls + Sainte‑Anne‑de‑Beaupré Tour Book here → Countryside Tour
Day 3: Shopping, Food, and the Dufferin Terrace
After another morning exploring Old Quebec, we headed to Dufferin Terrace, the boardwalk in front of the Fairmont Château Frontenac. It’s one of the best places in the city for people‑watching and river views.
Explore the Ruins Beneath the Boardwalk
There’s a kiosk where you can go under the terrace to visit the Forts‑et‑Châteaux‑Saint‑Louis ruins. This National Historic Site was once the governor’s residence for over 200 years, and more than 500,000 artifacts have been found here.
Upper Town vs. Lower Town
Quebec City is divided into two parts:
Upper Town – more British influence
Lower Town – more French influence
You can walk the steps between them or take the Funicular. Ours was under repair that day, so our tour company provided a shuttle.
Food + Shopping
We spent our last morning shopping for chocolates and gifts to bring home, followed by a delicious lunch of steak and frites before heading to the airport.
Top Tours to Book for Your Trip
These are the easiest to fit into a 3‑day itinerary:
Old Quebec City Walking Tour Book here → Old Quebec City Walking Tour
Montmorency Falls + Sainte‑Anne‑de‑Beaupré Tour Book here → Countryside Tour
Quebec City Food Tour Book here → Food Tour
What to Pack for Quebec City
Quebec City involves hills, steps, and cobblestones — comfortable gear makes a big difference.
Comfortable walking shoes Shop → Amazon
Portable charger Shop → Amazon
Crossbody bag Shop → Amazon
Light jacket or sweater Shop → Amazon
Final Thoughts
Quebec City completely won us over. Finn told me multiple times that I have to bring my husband back because he would love it — and I agree. We’re already talking about returning for the Christmas Markets in December.
It’s walkable, charming, historic, and perfect for a long weekend. Whether you’re traveling with teens, adults, or your whole family, Quebec City is a destination everyone can enjoy.
Let’s Travel Hack Together
If you enjoy learning how we travel as a family using points, miles, and smart credit card strategies, I’d love for you to follow along:
About the Author
Julie Davis is the founder and creative force behind NO POINT LEFT BEHIND, a travel blog dedicated to helping families travel smarter, cheaper, and more joyfully through points, miles, cruise hacks, and practical planning.
She’s a mom, a storyteller, and a firm believer that travel doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated — especially when you know how to leverage credit card rewards, loyalty programs, and a few clever strategies.
Julie has explored destinations across the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe, often bringing her family along for the adventure. Her guides blend real‑life experiences, honest tips, and beginner‑friendly advice that help travelers feel confident planning their own trips.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find her researching her next cruise deal, testing out a new travel hack, or creating resources that make travel easier for busy families. Her mission is simple: no point left behind, and no travel opportunity wasted.
