Christina Beausoleil & Scott Valentine
Things To Do
Bar 1608
Swing by Bar 1608 for a drink or two! We love their dirty martinis (as you can see from our photo above), but we highly recommend trying the "So Fresh & So Clean," concocted with a cumin-infused local gin exclusive to the Château Frontenac! In need of a hair-of-the-dog after the nights of festivities? Sip on the Caesar, Canada's famous spin on the Bloody Mary. The secret ingredient: clam tomato juice!
Bistro Le Sam
Located on the first floor of the Château, consider making a reservation (well in advance) at Le Sam for lunch or dinner for a fabulous meal and dining experience. We love the artisanal charcuterie board & Québec beef tartar!
Champlain Restaurant
First opened in 1893 and considered one of the best restaurants in Old Québec City, the breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and exclusive tasting menu at Champlain ensures an unforgettable dining experience. This restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday-Saturday and for brunch on Sundays.
Café La Maison Smith Notre-Dame
Looking for coffee and a croissant? The original Maison Smith located at Palace Royale is a charming spot to have a coffee in Old Québec. The historic square is home to Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, one of the oldest churches in North America.
Shopping & Exploring Quartier Petit Champlain
Lined by historic buildings dating back to the 17th century, this narrow cobblestone shopping street is not only one of the most popular destinations in Old Quebec City, but was also voted one of the world's most beautiful streets! This corner of the city can be accessed by walking (beware, there are many stairs!), but you can also ride the Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec.
Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec
The Old Quebec Funicular is an inclined elevator, formerly a funicular railway, in the Old Quebec neighborhood of Quebec City. It links the Haute-Ville at Dufferin Terrace to the Basse-Ville at Rue du Petit-Champlain.
Queues de Castor Vieux Québec
Craving something sweet? The Queues de Castor was one of the bride's favorite desserts growing-up. Also known as the "Beaver Tail," this deep fried confection, think flattened donut, is the perfect pick-me-up when you're in need of a sugar rush. We highly recommend trying the Queues de Castor with Nutella, or keeping it simple with cinnamon and sugar.
Poutine
First time in Canada? Your weekend in Québec City will not be complete without trying poutine, a dish of french fries and cheese curds topped with a brown gravy! Originating in rural Québec snack bars in the 1950s, the word "poutine" is a Quebecois slang term that means, "mess." Offered in many restaurants around town, poutine is both a delicious appetizer or satisfying late night snack that you will not want to miss!
Guided Tour Of The Château Frontenac
Experience the history of the prestigious Fairmont Le Château Frontenac during a guided tour of this iconic hotel located on one of the most beautiful sites in Quebec City. You will discover the famous people and historical events that have shaped the identity of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac over the years, as well as its architectural development and facelift undergone in recent years.
The Citadelle of Québec
For our guests who are history buffs, the Citadelle of Québec is the largest British fortress in North America. Currently, it is an active military installation and the secondary official residence of both the governor general of Canada and the Canadian monarch. You can take a guided tour, or simply take a stroll to enjoy the view from the highest point in Québec City.
Parc de la Chute-Montmorency
Nature enthusiast? At 83 meters high, a full 30 meters taller than Niagara Falls, the Montmorency Falls are a spectacular sight! They are located only a 15 minute drive away from Old Québec in a park of the same name.
Île d'Orléans
Looking to extend your stay or take a day trip in Québec? Nearby is Île d'Orléans, a picturesque island located in the Saint Lawrence River. With its ancestral homes dating back to the 17th century, the island is a treasure trove of French heritage right here in North America. In fact, because it is one of the first parts of the province to be colonized by the French, a large percentage of French Canadians can trace ancestry to early residents of the island!