Overview

Québec is Canada’s largest province by area and the heart of French-Canadian culture. Known for its historic cities, stunning natural landscapes, rich Indigenous and European heritage, and year-round festivals, Québec offers a distinct experience unlike anywhere else in North America. With everything from cobblestone streets and cathedrals to forests, fjords, and snowy slopes — this province is perfect for travelers seeking culture, cuisine, and adventure.

  • Capital: Québec City
  • Largest City: Montréal
  • Other Major Cities: Laval, Gatineau, Sherbrooke, Trois-Rivières
  • Population: ~8.9 million (2024 est.)
  • Official Language: French (most widely spoken); English is also used, especially in larger cities
  • Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC−5) / Eastern Daylight Time (DST)
  • Climate: Cold winters, warm summers — humid continental in the south, subarctic in the north

Top Destinations in Québec

Québec City

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with centuries-old stone buildings, cobbled streets, the majestic Château Frontenac, and a distinct European feel.

Montréal

A dynamic cultural hub known for its festivals, cuisine, historic Old Montreal, and a unique blend of old-world charm and modern innovation.

Gaspé Peninsula

Home to dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and Forillon National Park — perfect for road trips and whale watching.

Laurentians & Mont-Tremblant

A four-season outdoor playground with skiing, hiking, lakes, and charming mountain villages.

Eastern Townships

Picturesque countryside, vineyards, cycling routes, and cozy B&Bs — ideal for a romantic or relaxing escape.

Must-See Attractions

  • Old Québec (Vieux-Québec) – Fortified walls, colonial architecture, and iconic landmarks
  • Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica – Stunning Gothic Revival church in the heart of Old Montreal
  • Mont Tremblant Resort – Premier skiing and outdoor destination
  • Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier – Hiking, kayaking, and wildlife near Québec City
  • Percé Rock – A massive natural arch rising from the sea in the Gaspé

Things to Do

  • Wander cobblestone streets and sip café au lait in Old Montreal
  • Go skiing or snowboarding in the Laurentians or Charlevoix
  • Take a scenic train ride on the Train de Charlevoix or the VIA Rail Ocean route
  • Attend world-class festivals, from Cirque du Soleil to the Montreal International Jazz Festival
  • Try sugar shack cuisine in the spring (cabane à sucre)

Getting There & Around

Airports

  • Montréal-Trudeau International (YUL), Québec City Jean Lesage (YQB), regional airports in Gatineau, Saguenay, and others

Transport

  • Intercity trains and buses (VIA Rail, Orléans Express)
  • Metro and buses in Montréal and Québec City
  • Car rentals recommended for rural exploration and road trips

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow sports, winter carnivals, and magical lights
  • Spring (Mar–May): Maple syrup season and blooming gardens
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Warm weather, outdoor festivals, and patio dining
  • Fall (Sep–Nov): Brilliant foliage, apple picking, and cozy getaways

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: A delicious blend of French, Indigenous, and modern influences
  • Specialties: Poutine, tourtière (meat pie), cretons, maple taffy, smoked meat, foie gras, and cheese
  • Drinks: Ice cider, Québec beer, and wine from the Eastern Townships
  • Festivals:
    • Carnaval de Québec – Winter celebration with ice palaces and snow sculptures
    • Just for Laughs Festival (Montréal) – World’s largest comedy festival
    • Festival d’été de Québec – Massive summer music festival
    • Montreal International Jazz Festival – Iconic summer event
  • Indigenous Culture: Experience the heritage of the Innu, Cree, Abenaki, and other First Nations through museums and cultural centres

Souvenirs from Québec

  • Maple syrup and maple candy
  • Local cheese and smoked meats
  • Indigenous crafts and beaded jewelry
  • Art from Québecois painters or illustrators
  • French-language books, music, and films

Fun Facts

  • Québec City is the only fortified city in North America north of Mexico
  • The word “Québec” comes from an Algonquin word meaning “where the river narrows“
  • Montréal is the second-largest French-speaking city in the world, after Paris
  • The province produces over 70% of the world’s maple syrup
  • The legal drinking age in Québec is 18, unlike 19 in most other provinces

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Québec City Getaway

  • Day 1: Explore Old Québec, Château Frontenac, and Dufferin Boardwalk
  • Day 2: Visit Montmorency Falls + enjoy traditional Québécois cuisine
  • Day 3: Take a river cruise or visit Île d’Orléans wineries and orchards

5-Day Montréal + Laurentians Escape

  • Day 1: Discover Old Montréal + Notre-Dame Basilica
  • Day 2: Museum hop + enjoy the Plateau neighborhood
  • Day 3: Drive to Mont-Tremblant – hike or ski
  • Day 4: Spa, gondola ride, or nature activities
  • Day 5: Return via Saint-Sauveur for shopping or maple treats

Cities

  • Montréal

  • Québec City