- 1. Where to Stay in Quebec?
- 2. How to Find a Place to Stay in Quebec City?
- 3. Stay in Old Quebec, the Historical Center
- 4. Where to Stay in Old Quebec?
- 5. Lower Town, the Oldest Neighborhood in Quebec
- 6. Where to Stay in Quebec's Lower Town?
- 7. Stay in Saint-Roch, Quebec's Trendy Neighborhood
- 8. Where to Stay in Saint-Roch?
- 9. Saint Jean-Baptiste, for a Calm Stay Near the Center
- 10. Where to Stay in Quebec's Saint-Jean-Baptiste Neighborhood?
- 11. Old Limoilou, a Family-Friendly and Warm Neighborhood
- 12. Where to Stay in Old Limoilou?
Where to Stay in Quebec?
If you have chosen Quebec City as your destination in Canada, or as a stop during your road trip in Quebec, you are probably looking for a place to stay in Quebec City! Both authentic and touristy, this Quebec city offers a relaxed atmosphere with constant entertainment and a truly pleasant living environment!
Since the city is renowned for its many attractions, it's essential to choose the neighborhood where you'll stay in Quebec carefully to ensure you have a peaceful vacation. To save you time, this guide outlines the neighborhoods to prioritize considering budget, activity, location, and safety...
How to Find a Place to Stay in Quebec City?
Quebec City is a relatively large metropolis with no fewer than 35 neighborhoods spread across 6 boroughs. Therefore, finding a place to stay during your visit can seem complicated, but I assure you, you won't have to study them all; a small handful truly matters
To successfully find the ideal neighborhood for your stay in Quebec, it's important to clarify what you're looking for. If you want to visit the maximum number of tourist attractions and museums, it's best to stay in Old Quebec or Lower Town, both of which constitute the city's historic center. These are the best places to explore the metropolis and enjoy a very central location.
Other neighborhoods offer interesting alternatives to save some money. However, areas like Saint-Roch may suit travelers looking to enjoy the entertainment and nightlife of Quebec. As for Saint-Jean-Baptiste, this neighborhood offers a nice balance between calm and proximity to the city's points of interest.
We can also mention Old Limoilou, a family-friendly residential area north of downtown. Although somewhat off the beaten path, on the other side of the Saint-Charles River, it features typically New York architecture. It's an excellent base for a long stay in Quebec City or if you're traveling with children
Overall, Quebec City is a pleasant place to live and has a high safety level. To learn more about all the neighborhoods I've just mentioned, I invite you to continue reading to discover more details about each area's highlights and recommended accommodation
My ❤️-favorite places to stay in Quebec
Don't have time to read the whole article? Here's a selection of my favorite accommodations:
- Hotel Le Saint-Paul is a 3-star hotel located in Lower Town, housed within a typical building, with nightly rates starting at approximately $117.
- The Auberge Saint-Pierre in the heart of Old Quebec also offers a typical setting close to the harbor and the waterfront. Rates start at about $130 per night during the low season.
- Place des Arts by Hébergements DLC: a well-equipped 56 square meter apartment with a kitchenette, located in the Old Roch neighborhood. Expect to pay $107 per night.
Stay in Old Quebec, the Historical Center
Among the best neighborhoods to stay in Quebec, the historic center allows easy access to all the city's tourist attractions, restaurants, and various shops and amenities... Located in the Cité Limoilou borough, this neighborhood is an excellent base with various accommodation options to enjoy your stay
Not surprisingly, Old Quebec is filled with historical sites and museums, such as the Château Frontenac, which is the city's most important monument. There's also the Terrasse Dufferin, a very large promenade where you can stretch your legs and rejuvenate... From the Upper Town of Old Quebec, you can also discover Place Royale, dominated by a church, as well as the Notre-Dame Basilica-Cathedral, both iconic!
The main advantage of Old Quebec is that it encompasses the majority of tourist sites. It boasts a great proximity to the airport, which is easily accessible within a 30-minute drive, and houses Quebec's central train station. For shopping, the Petit Champlain street is lined with charming shops and has beautiful European architecture
Overall, staying in Old Quebec is a wise choice. In addition to offering an ideal central location for discovering the city on foot, there are relatively many accommodation options. However, it is the preferred neighborhood for travelers, which implies relatively high prices, so book as early as possible
Where to Stay in Old Quebec?
Auberge Saint-Pierre: This establishment offers large rooms with a blend of modern and authentic decor. Expect to pay around $130 for a night in the heart of Old Quebec, close to all tourist attractions and shops.
The Auberge du Trésor: located right in the heart of Old Quebec, it is a 3-star establishment with very affordable rates, perfect for those traveling on a budget. The restaurant offers French bistro-style cuisine. Expect to pay around $100 for a night in a double room.
Lower Town, the Oldest Neighborhood in Quebec
If you can't find suitable accommodation in Old Quebec, I encourage you to shift your search to Lower Town. This is simply the lower part of the historic center, an excellent compromise for travelers wanting to stay in a central area that is easily accessible on foot.
Lower Town in Quebec City, which stretches from the Old Port to the Citadel of Quebec, is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. It is highly regarded for its medieval character, with its ramparts, ships, and truly picturesque ambiance. You might even say this neighborhood resembles a quaint village
By staying in Lower Town, you will enjoy almost immediate access to the historic center; only a 10-minute walk to the must-see Place Royale. Throughout the promenade, you will be charmed by the beauty of ancient buildings and the cobblestone streets of yesteryear... There is also a wide variety of shops, local restaurants, picturesque terraces, and cute little cafes ☕️
As mentioned in the previous section, the Dufferin Terrace is easily accessible. Located in Upper Town, it offers a great view of the Saint Lawrence River! Therefore, there are two options: walk to the promenade or take the funicular that connects the two parts of the historic center in just a few minutes.
In terms of accessibility, Lower Town is an excellent choice for settling down. This neighborhood is very well served by public transport, which is also a plus for reaching Quebec's international airport. Accommodation options are plentiful, but as always, book as soon as you know your dates
Where to Stay in Quebec's Lower Town?
Hotel Le Saint-Paul: Ideally located in the historic center, just a 10-minute walk from the Museum of Civilization, this 3-star establishment offers beautiful modern and comfortable rooms. You will be welcomed by friendly and attentive staff for a night starting at $117.
Les Lofts de la Gare: Close to Old Quebec, this hotel offers large, comfortable, modern, fully equipped apartments. Expect to pay from $137 per night. You'll be near numerous shops, the train station, restaurants, and cafes in the metropolis.
Stay in Saint-Roch, Quebec's Trendy Neighborhood
To enjoy the nightlife of Quebec City, the Saint-Roch neighborhood is a good choice. Located north of the historic center, this area is filled with typical restaurants, trendy bars, and chic boutiques. It's said to be the trendiest neighborhood in the city and offers interesting proximity to tourist attractions
Even though this area doesn't really house any major tourist sites, you can count on Saint-Joseph Street, which is the beating heart of Saint-Roch. This is where clubs, bars, theaters, and all the night owls of Quebec gather. You can easily spend an evening here tasting local specialties, enjoying drinks, attending live music concerts, or partying all night long
Beyond the nightlife, there are some interesting green spaces to relax, notably the Jean-Paul-l'Allier Garden and its artificial waterfall, accessible in just a few minutes, and Victoria Park. This space features playgrounds for children, picnic tables, and various sports facilities
When it comes to accommodation, there are some interesting options. The Saint-Roch neighborhood is an excellent choice for staying close to the historic center while enjoying the nightlife. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to walk to Upper Town, which is quite reasonable in terms of distance.
Where to Stay in Saint-Roch?
Les Lofts du Théâtre: Ideal for a family or friends vacation, this establishment offers large, modern, and comfortable lofts. For a 46 m2 accommodation with a large double bedroom and a sofa bed, expect to pay starting at $133 per night. The establishment is situated near the Morrin Centre, Old Quebec, and the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.
Place des Arts by Hébergements DLC: offers fully-equipped 56 square meter apartments with a kitchenette. These accommodations are soundproofed for peaceful nights and pets are welcome! For a night on-site, expect to pay starting at $107.
Saint Jean-Baptiste, for a Calm Stay Near the Center
The Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighborhood is located south of the Saint-Roch neighborhood and west of Old Quebec. It is a rather residential area that benefits from a truly privileged location. If you want to enjoy the activities of the historic center and nightlife while staying in a peaceful area, this is a great alternative
Although Saint-Jean-Baptiste is not the most touristic neighborhood in Quebec, it still offers quite an interesting proximity. You can reach the Citadel of Quebec within a 25-minute walk, Saint-Joseph Street (in Saint-Roch) in just 10 minutes, and Old Quebec in 20 minutes.
This neighborhood is particularly well-located, surrounded by the most interesting areas of Quebec while enjoying peaceful nights... Among the few things to see, feel free to admire the Quebec Parliament Building, which showcases a Second Empire style and houses the National Assembly of Quebec. It is renowned for its beautiful lush gardens. The Parc de l'Amérique-Française, on the other hand, is also worth discovering
In summary, while the Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighborhood is not very large, it is particularly practical. It can suit families visiting Quebec with children or individuals needing a tranquil stay
Where to Stay in Quebec's Saint-Jean-Baptiste Neighborhood?
Château Des Tourelles: An inn offering independent accommodations 10 minutes walk from the old city and 5 minutes from restaurants and shops. For a night, plan for a minimum of $110 for a studio that includes a kitchen and all necessary functional equipment.
Petit Hôtel - Café Krieghoff: Available from $104 per night, this establishment is just steps from Quebec attractions, shops, restaurants, and all kinds of businesses. You will be welcomed by attentive, friendly owners and staff.
Old Limoilou, a Family-Friendly and Warm Neighborhood
Located north of the historic center of Quebec, Old Limoilou is a last alternative, although it is somewhat off the beaten path. Ideal for families wanting to enjoy a warm atmosphere, this district is known for its traditional restaurants and architecture that closely resembles Brooklyn in New York
It may not necessarily be a neighborhood rich in tourist attractions, but it is highly appreciated for its relaxed atmosphere, pleasant green spaces, markets, and numerous small shops. Accommodations are slightly more affordable compared to the historic center, so why not after all?
In terms of accessibility, Old Limoilou is well served by public transportation, although it takes quite a while to reach downtown. Ideally, choose this area if you plan to stay in Quebec for more than a week. If you are just passing through, the location could be quite inconvenient...
Regarding entertainment, only the Saint-Charles River separates you from the Saint-Roch neighborhood. If you're staying on the south side of the neighborhood, count on a 15-minute walk to reach Saint-Joseph Street and enjoy all the clubs, restaurants, and bars in the area
Where to Stay in Old Limoilou?
Le 323 Carnadière: this is an 88 square meter fully equipped apartment located in the Old Limoilou neighborhood. It includes a balcony, 3 bedrooms with large beds, a kitchen with a stove, and a bathroom with a bathtub. Up to 6 people can stay there. For one night, budget a minimum of $226.
Condo >: A charming 50 m2 vacation apartment. Available for $229, this accommodation has a double bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a large living area, and a balcony. You will be welcomed by a very available, accommodating, and friendly owner.
Now that you've found a place to stay in Quebec, all you have left is to plan your activities, and for that, I have gathered the best activities to do in Quebec in a must-see guide to the Canadian region