Ah, Québec ! One of my favorite cities in the world and truly the perfect destination for a fall escape! Its main attractions would satisfy even the most picky tourist out there, because Quebec City has something for everyone.
I visited this splendid city last October, and it turned out to be exactly what my heart needed at the time. I was going through a little homesick phase, longing for the charm of old buildings, cobblestone streets, and that unmistakable Old World atmosphere you usually only find in Europe.
And Quebec gave me all of that charm and so much more!
I’ll be honest: I’m not the best trip planner in the world. Partly because my partner is the organized one who loves creating our travel itineraries, but also because I enjoy letting a new place surprise me.
And did Québec ever surprise me!
My eyes lit up the moment we hopped into the Uber from the airport, gazing out the window like an excited kid seeing snow for the first time.
Even though it was quite late and we were exhausted, we couldn’t resist going out for a walk.
And oh, Québec at night it feels like an old poem wrapped in modern lights!
Speaking of poetry — you’ve probably heard of John McCrae, the Canadian poet known for In Flanders Fields. But did you know he also wrote a poem called “Québec ”, where he reflects on the battle between the French and the British for the city?
Here it is!
Of old, like Helen, guerdon of the strong —
Like Helen fair, like Helen light of word, —
“The spoils unto the conquerors belong.
Who winneth me must win me by the sword.”
Grown old, like Helen, once the jealous prize
That strong men battled for in savage hate,
Can she look forth with unregretful eyes,
Where sleep Montcalm and Wolfe beside her gate?Source:https://allpoetry.com/
I find it beautiful how McCrae portrays Québec as a mythological figure like Helen of Troy, famed for her beauty and grace, fought over by powerful men. It captures Quebec perfectly: a city as timeless and captivating as a legend, still standing proud between two worlds — the French and the British, the past and the present, the old and the new.
Divided into Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville), Québec’s charm unfolds layer by layer — from castle rooftops to riverside streets.
Here are the main attractions you should not miss if you are planning a Québec trip in the fall:
🕍 Upper Town (Haute-Ville) – The City Above the River
Le Château Frontenac
Perched high above the St. Lawrence River, the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is the city’s shining jewel. With its copper turrets and fairytale silhouette, it’s said to be the most photographed hotel in the world — and for good reason.
It’s my absolute favorite building in the world, and trust me, I’ve seen many architectural masterpieces during my travels. There’s a certain magnificence to it that has nothing to do with its size, but everything to do with its charm and the feeling it evokes.
It’s hard to put into words, but there’s something almost magical about the Château Frontenac — a feeling that surrounds you when you look at it. It may sound strange, especially since it’s not an ancient, history-filled structure, yet it has a presence and soul that few buildings can match.
Despite its name, Château Frontenac has never been an actual castle owned by any royal family, but it has been from the very beginning what it continues to be today: a hotel.
The building was commissioned by the Canadian Pacific Railway and designed by architect Bruce Price, opening its doors in 1893. It was part of a grand vision to create luxurious hotels across Canada that would encourage rail travel and showcase the country’s beauty.
If your budget allows, I highly recommend booking your stay at this iconic hotel. It is a truly unforgettable experience!
But if an overnight stay is not within your budget, don’t worry! You can still enjoy the magic of Château Frontenac with a guided tour you can book here.
💌 Poema moment: Sit on the Dufferin Terrace and watch the sunlight dance across the château’s windows. Some views are too beautiful to rush, don’t you think?
And speaking of……
Dufferin Terrace
Just below the grand Château Frontenac lies Dufferin Terrace, one of the most enchanting promenades in Québec City. Stretching along the edge of the St. Lawrence River, this broad wooden boardwalk offers some of the most breathtaking views in the city — from the distant Laurentian Mountains to the bustling harbor below.
It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down. Street performers fill the air with music, couples stroll hand in hand, and visitors pause to capture the perfect photo of the Château rising behind them.
Citadelle de Québec & Plains of Abraham – Whispers of History
Built in the early 19th century, this star-shaped fortress is still an active military base and home to the Royal 22e Régiment, proudly showcasing Québec’s French-Canadian heritage.
Right next door stretch the Plains of Abraham, once the site of the pivotal 1759 battle that changed the course of North American history. Today, the battleground has transformed into a vast green park, where locals picnic, jog, and celebrate festivals year-round. It’s a beautiful reminder of how a place once marked by conflict has become one of peace, life, and reflection.
Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec – The Ride Between Worlds
Linking Upper and Lower Towns since 1879, the Old Québec Funicular glides down the cliffside in under a minute. Through its glass windows, you’ll see rooftops and river light — a postcard in motion.
🕰️ Lower Town (Basse-Ville) – The Heartbeat of Old Quebec
Quartier du Petit-Champlain – A Fairytale Street
Nestled below the cliffs, Rue du Petit-Champlain is one of North America’s oldest and most picturesque streets. Lined with boutiques, art studios, and cozy cafés, it feels straight out of a dream.Walking here, browsing local art, and watching the funicular glide up toward the Upper Town were definitely some of my favorite things to do and exactly what gave me that much-needed European vibe fix!
Place Royale – Where Quebec Was Born
This cobblestone square is where everything began. This charming square marks the exact spot where Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608, planting the roots of what would become French North America.
Make sure to visit the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, the church that has stood here since the 1600s, watching centuries of stories unfold.
🌳 Beyond the Old Walls
Montmorency Falls
Taller than Niagara Falls, this 83-meter cascade thunders down into the St. Lawrence River, sending mist into the air and rainbows dancing in the sunlight.
Walk across the suspension bridge or ride the cable car for a breathtaking view. Trust me, it is totally worth it!
Trust me, this looks more discouraging than it actually is!
It is totally doable and the view from up there is absolutely breath-taking.
But if you are not up for the hike up, you can always take the cable car😊
And, on your way back, make sure you make a quick stop at…..
Cassis Monna & Filles – A Taste of Île d’Orléans
Tucked away on picturesque Île d’Orléans, Cassis Monna & Filles is a delightful stop that perfectly captures the island’s charm and creativity. Run by two sisters, this family-owned estate has been transforming black currants into award-winning wines, spirits, and gourmet treats for generations.
The island is the perfect spot for city views and really deserves more time to explore, but we were running low on time and energy. A quick stop at this lovely distillery to sample their gadelle noire wines and liqueurs turned out to be the perfect way to wrap up the second and last day of our trip!
Québec flavours
I like to end my travel stories with something special for my fellow food lovers 😋
- If you find yourself in Québec, tasting poutine is absolutely non-negotiable — that golden trio of crispy fries, rich gravy, and squeaky cheese curds is pure comfort in a bowl.
- And of course, anything infused with maple syrup is a must-try as well, from candies to cocktails, it’s the sweetest way to experience the true flavour of Québec.
- For a taste of authentic québécoise cuisine, I highly recommend Pub D’Orsay. It’s where I had the most tender, perfectly caramelized pork belly of my life — so good we couldn’t resist going back the next day!
- Another gem is Bistro Hortus, a lovely spot that blends sustainability with creativity. Not only is their food delicious, but they also keep beehives in the attic, and guests can even take home a jar of their house-made honey.
Final thoughts
Québec is the kind of city that will capture your heart in every season, but wrapped up in autumn colors, this charming place feels like a poem come to life, so save it for a fall trip!
📸It is also the place where I took some of my favorite pictures, so make sure you follow me on Instagram if you would like to see more of my photography!
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