Quebec City Christmas Guide: 14 Magical Things to Do + Festive Spots

Planning to visit Quebec City at Christmas time? Here’s the ultimate Quebec City Christmas guide, with festive things to do, where to find the best decorations, and tons of tips for visiting!

Christmas in Quebec City is absolutely *magical*.

If you’re craving a European Christmas but don’t want to pay for an expensive plane ticket, then visiting Quebec City at Christmas is the next best thing. You’ll get all the European vibes and festive cheer – without leaving North America.

Christmas time in Quebec CIty is a special season, and there’s nowhere quite like it. There are quaint cobblestone streets with old European-style stone buildings, a real-life castle, twinkling lights everywhere, and even an authentic German Christmas Market. 

If you’re lucky enough to see it all covered in a dusting of snow, well, there’s nothing quite like it. It feels like it came straight out of a fairytale (or a Hallmark movie).

I’d been told that I’d fall in love with Quebec City – I didn’t quite imagine exactly how much. 

If you’re looking for a little Christmas getaway, especially without trekking all the way to Europe, then you’re in luck! Quebec City makes the perfect Christmas trip.

Here’s a complete guide to visiting Quebec City at Christmas – from what to do, where to stay, what to pack, and tons of other helpful tips!

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How Cold Does it Get in Quebec City in December?

Winter in Quebec City is COLD! Average highs in Quebec City in December are 26°F (-3°C) high, and the lows are  14°F (-10°C), which was pretty darn cold, especially for this California girl! 

I found it to be not terrible in the daytime when the sun was out, but it was FREEZING once it got dark. Be sure to bundle up and wear warm layers (see my recommended packing list further down).

Snow is also common around Christmas in Quebec City. The city averages 124 inches of snow every year, and it usually starts snowing by December. When I visited in early December, snow was falling while I was there, which made the scenery extra dreamy.

Be sure to pack lots of warm layers (see below for a suggested packing list), hand warmers, and snow boots! Drinking gluhwein and hot chocolate also help immensely 😉

What to Pack for Quebec City in December

• Base layers/thermals: I’ve been wearing the Uniqlo Heattech shirts for years and they definitely came in handy during my time in Quebec City! I love that they are lightweight but keep you warm without making you sweaty and moist. I packed a few of the standard ones, but kind of wish I got some Extra Warm or Ultra Warm ones.
• Warm Winter Coat: I wear a coat similar to this one, that has served me well on my winter trips.
• Puffy Jacket: For winter days that are less cold, OR as an extra layer of warmth under your coat. I recently got a Patagonia Nano Puff jacket and LOVE it – it is lightweight and packable, but super warm!
• Thermal tights or underwear: I packed a couple pairs of Uniqlo Heattech tights to wear under my pants.
• Snow Boots: You NEED something that will withstand the snow. I have a pair of snow boots from Columbia that I LOVE – they are sturdy, comfortable, and warm! Unfortunately, they were discontinued, but here is another similar pair.
• Ice Grips: This is the one item I wish I thought to pack! I don’t think I was expecting as much ice as there was on the streets, and it can be slippery AF –  it is no joke! 
• Fleece Lined Leggings: These are super comfy and warm. I ended up wearing these over my tights.
• Sweaters: For a warm, stylish layer. 
• Fleece zip-up: I love, love, LOVE my Columbia fleece zip-up for an extra warm layer under my outerwear!  
• Wool socks: I packed these socks and never once did my feet get cold.
• Leg warmers: Not only do they add a cute element to your outfit, they add another warm layer.
• Beanie: Keep your head warm and protected from the elements! I also packed a knitted headband to switch it up a bit.
• Warm Gloves: I recommend a pair that also allows you to use your touchscreen smartphone without taking them off.
• Scarves: I packed a thick infinity scarf, as well as a blanket scarf (my FAVE!).
• Hand Warmers: I was gifted some and I was sooo glad I had them! You can get the standard single-use ones, or a rechargeable one! 
• Power Bank: To keep your devices charged as you explore Quebec City in the winter! The cold makes your battery drain faster, so this is a must. I never travel without my go-to power bank – one charge will give five full charges to your devices.
• Lotion: Winter weather tends to dry out your skin, so be prepared with some good moisturizing lotion!
• Lip balm: Same with your lips. Here is my favorite lip balm, especially for those winter months

A Few Things to Know for Visiting Quebec City at Christmas…

• 2-3 days is a good amount of time: This is a good amount of time to experience the best of Christmas in Quebec City, visit the Christmas Markets, check out all the lights and decorations, and see the top attractions in Old Quebec. If you want to check out some of the other nearby attractions and take day trips, I would add extra time.
  
• The streets are slippery: Snow and especially ice are common, so the streets get pretty slippery. Wear sturdy shoes and watch your step! I kinda wish I brought some ice grips to put over my snow boots (although I found the ice to be way worse in Montreal).
  
• It gets dark early: Quebec City is pretty far north, so your daylight hours are going to be limited in December. The sun sets pretty early, like before 4pm, so plan accordingly. The Christmas lights and decorations are especially breathtaking once it gets dark, though!

• The Christmas Market closes before Christmas: This is something to be aware of if you’re planning to visit over the actual Christmas holiday (or afterwards) – the Christmas Market closes on December 22 in 2024.
  
• The rest of the decorations stay up: Even if you visit after the Christmas Markets close, you’ll still be able to experience the holiday vibes! Most of the decorations stay up until the end of the year, and the ones on Rue Petit Champlain are in place until March.
  
• The official language is French: Quebec is the only French speaking province in Canada. If you don’t speak French though, not to worry! I found that English is commonly spoken in the main tourist areas. Still, it’s good to know a few basic French phrases and I found that Quebec City is the perfect place to practice.
  
• Old Quebec is easily explored on foot: Old Quebec is pretty small and compact, so it’s easily explored on foot. Walking through the charming streets here was one of my favorite things to do, especially as it was so festive during Christmas! As I mentioned earlier, the streets do get slippery though, so watch your step.
  
• Uber supposedly exists, but cars might be few: While I was told that Uber exists in Quebec City, I couldn’t find any cars. Taxis are readily available, however.
  
• There is an international airport in Quebec City: However, it may be cheaper to fly into Montreal and then take a train or bus (which is super easy to do). You will likely also be able to find more direct flights to/from Montreal.
  
• Bring cash: If you plan to go to the Christmas Markets, I suggest taking out a bit of cash as some of the vendors are cash only. 

Where to Stay in Quebec City

Quebec City has a wide range of accommodation options to suit any preference and budget, whether you’re looking to stay in a luxurious castle, hip boutique hotel, or a cozy inn. If you are visiting to experience the best of Christmas in Quebec City, I recommend staying in Old Quebec.

Here are some of my recommended places to stay in Quebec City:

Monsieur Jean Hotel: This unique boutique hotel is where I stayed, and I cannot recommend it enough! Located in the heart of Old Quebec, the hotel is meant to invoke a dreamlike feel, inspired by its founder. You’ll find tons of colorful art, elegant furnishings, and a cozy atmosphere. The rooms are beautiful, spacious, and comfortable, with fully-equipped kitchenettes and views over a snow-covered Old Quebec.

Fairmont Chateau Frontenac: The Chateau Frontenac is Quebec City’s most iconic hotel, as well as its most luxurious. You’ll get to stay in a real-life castle, with an unparalleled sense of elegance and luxury. The 610 rooms here are beautifully furnished, with stunning views over Old Quebec and the St. Lawrence River. Another plus is that you’ll find cheaper rates in the winter than in summer – I saw rooms going for under $300 in early December, which is a bargain compared to the usual rate of $500+.

14 Magical Quebec City Christmas Activities

Visit the German Christmas Market

One of the best things about Christmas in Old Quebec is that there’s an authentic German Christmas Market there! 

As I loved visiting the Christmas Markets in Munich, I was excited when I found out that Quebec CIty had its very own Christmas Market. And I was even more thrilled when I visited because it did almost feel like I was back in Germany!

The Marche de Noel Allemand de Quebec (Or Quebec City Christmas Market) runs every year from the end of November through Christmas week (November 21-December 22 in 2024). The market features over 100 vendors in the heart of Old Quebec, and is split up into 4 sections, each with its own look and vibe.

The market was started by a group of German residents who wanted to share their traditions and heritage with the local community. 

There are so many amazing decorations to look at, and plenty of yummy things to eat and drink here. You’ll find plenty of authentic food and drink sold here, including pretzels, sausages, and gluhwein (aka mulled wine), which is the perfect way to warm up on a cold day (I had to stop by at least twice a day)! 

You’ll also find other authentic elements found at the Christmas Markets in Germany, like a Christmas pyramid, wooden huts, and other decorations imported from Germany.

In addition, there are a number of vendors who sell local Canadian specialties, such as maple treats and wool items.

While the Christmas Market is open all day (opening around 11am), I think it’s best experienced at night, when all the decorations are lit up. Sure, it’ll be freezing (nothing a bit of gluhwein can’t fix!), but it is mesmerizing to see it with all the lights. 

Go ice skating at Place d’Youville

Ice Skating at Place d’Youville is another one of the best things to do in Quebec City at Christmas. The rink is technically part of the Quebec City Christmas Market, but stays open until mid-March.

As a figure skating enthusiast (who still kinda sorta has aspirations of being the next Kristi Yamaguchi), I love finding new outdoor skating rinks to hit up every winter. I was so excited to skate at this one because it literally felt like I was skating inside a snowglobe!

The setting is absolutely enchanting here. You’ll get to glide across the ice, as you see the decorations of the Christmas Market and Theatre Capitole on one side. On the other side, you’ll see the majestic fortifications of Quebec, perfectly framing the charming streets of the Old Town. When I skated here, there was also a dusting of snow and it was so perfect.

It’s supposed to be extra gorgeous at night, when the decorations are lit up, but I was a wimp and didn’t want to deal with the cold.

Admission to the rink is free, but you must make reservations here (do note that the site is in French). Skate rentals are $10, or you can bring your own (did I fly up from California with my own skates? Yes I did!).

Stroll through Quartier Petit Champlain

Quartier Petit Champlain was hands-down my favorite part of Christmas in Old Quebec – it felt straight out of a fairytale, and literally took my breath away.

Located in the Lower Town of Old Quebec, Quartier Petit Champlain is one of North America’s oldest shopping streets. The cobblestoned street is dotted with boutiques, galleries. cafes, restaurants, bars, and more.

It’s one of the most charming areas in Quebec City, but it is especially enchanting in the winter months. There are old stone and brick facades, with many storefronts adding festive decorations, and strings of twinkly snowflake lights hanging overhead.

I had to come back several times because it was truly so photogenic! I was even treated to seeing it covered in snow, which made it look like a scene straight out of a snowglobe.

While Quartier Petit Champlain is beautiful at any time of the day, I recommend coming either right before or after the sun sets. This makes the lights sparkle a bit more in the sky and it gives it an extra magical touch!

Be sure to also check out the view of Quartier Petit Champlain from up above at the Breakneck Steps (Escalier Casse-Cou).

Admire the Château Frontenac

The Fairmont Chateau Frontenac is one of Quebec City’s most iconic landmarks and breathtaking sights, a real-life fairytale castle in the middle of a snow-covered winter wonderland.

It’s one of the most photographed hotels in the world, and you can’t literally can’t miss it when visiting Quebec City. It’s visible from many places in the city, but some of the best places to photograph it include Dufferin Terrace, Pierre-Dugua-De Mons Terrace, and from Rue du Marche Champlain in Lower Town.

The hotel is equally stunning on the inside as it is from the outside, featuring a grand lobby area and elegant rooms with Art Deco and wooden details. It’s especially gorgeous during the holiday season, as the property is decked out in extravagant Christmas decorations, both inside the hotel and right outside of it.

Aside from the fact that the Chateau Frontenac is absolutely stunning, it offers a rich and interesting history that dates back over 125 years. It was originally intended to be one of Canada’s grand railway hotels, to house the posh passengers of the expanding railway system. 

Over the years, the hotel has seen some famous guests, including Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Steven Spielberg, and Celine Dion. It was also used as a filming location for an Alfred Hitchcock movie.

You can learn more about the history of both the hotel and the city in the exhibit located in the lobby. There are also guided tours offered, which take you to a few areas of the hotel which are not accessible to the general public.

While you’re here, be sure to grab a cocktail at Le Sam Bistro, from where you can catch some incredible views over the city and the St. Lawrence River.

Go for a toboggan ride

Just outside of the Chateau Frontenac at Dufferin Terrace is a wooden toboggan slide, which is one of the city’s oldest attractions. It’s stood at this very location for over 135 years (although it’s updated its safety features since then, of course).

Head on over to Au 1884 where you can rent a toboggan for $3.50 (which is quite a bargain, in my opinion). You’ll then carry your toboggan through the snow and up the ramp (careful as it can be slippery – and it’s pretty steep!).

Once you get to the top, you’re in for a treat! Hold on nice and tight, and then you’ll be zooming down the slide at speeds of up to 40 mph, all while you enjoy a picture perfect view of the Chateau Frontenac and the waterfront.

It’s such a thrilling ride, and so much fun – I actually screamed! This ended up being one of my favorite things that I did on my trip. It’s just an experience that I don’t get back home in Southern California. It was SO much fun and it made me feel like a kid again!

Take a walking tour

One of the best ways to start off your visit to Quebec City is with a walking tour of Old Town. The area is full of so many pretty streets, beautiful architecture, and a unique history and is just made for walking. By taking a walking tour, you’ll get a lay of the land as you experience its charm and learn more about its history.

This highly-rated 2-hour walking tour of Old Quebec is led by a local guide and will take you to all the significant landmarks in the area, and give you an insight into the city’s European history. You’ll get to see all the places where significant events took place, and see history come alive in front of you.

But since you’re visiting during the Christmas season, why not take a Christmas tour that leads you to all the festive spots in the city? This Christmas Magic walking tour does just that, and takes you to the best Christmas spots in Old Quebec. 

You’ll experience the city’s Christmas magic, learn about the city’s history and the Christmas traditions of the past, and even enjoy some sweet treats and hot chocolate. It’s such a unique way to learn more about the city and experience Christmas here.

Visit the Boutique de Noël

Did you know that there’s a year-round Christmas store in Quebec City? While you can head to the Boutique de Noel for a dose of Christmas cheer year-round, the Christmas season is obviously an ideal time to visit it.

The shop is world-famous and even appeared on a Korean drama series called Goblin. Inside, you’ll find a festive wonderland which is basically like a Christmas heaven. Every inch of the store is decked out in Christmas decor, and you’ll find ornaments, nativity sets, villages, and other Christmas collectibles. 

It’s the perfect place to pick up a unique Christmas-themed souvenir to take home!

Check out the Christmas tree at Place Royale

Place Royale is the birthplace of Quebec City, the site where Samuel de Champlain built the first French settlement in North America in 1608. Originally, the square was known as a marketplace called Place du Marché. 

In 1682, a fire burned down all the wooden structures here, and as a result all the surrounding buildings are made out of stone. One of these is the charming Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, which is the oldest stone church in North America.

During the holiday season, a giant Christmas tree stands in the middle of Place Royale. With tons of colorful ornaments and twinkly lights, the tree makes a festive centerpiece in the square, flanked by the charming stone (many of which also have decorations) buildings surrounding it. 

Cozy up in a cafe

Let’s face it – the weather during Christmas in Quebec City is COLD. Why escape the cold by spending some time warming up in a cozy cafe with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and a sweet treat?

There are a number of amazing cafes in the city, but one of the most popular is La Maison Smith. They have several locations, but the best one in Place Royal. It’s housed in an old building dating back to the 17th century, and is the original location in the city. 

Here, you can enjoy a warm beverage along with sandwiches, pastries, and more in an inviting atmosphere. They are known for their specialty drinks, especially the salted caramel latte.

Another option is Paillard, a cute little spot that I was initially drawn to because of the Christmas display in the storefront. They have a number of locations, including one on Rue Saint Jean in Old Quebec. 

They’ve got some delicious coffee, sandwiches, and yummy Christmas-themed sweet treats that are perfect for enjoying on a cold afternoon.

Admire the festive decorations around town

Quebec City is the ultimate Christmas destination, and walking through the city is like walking through a real-life Christmas postcard. There are so many dazzling lights and festive holiday displays in almost every direction you look!

It’s certainly not as well-known as the Christmas decorations in New York City, but it is certainly just as spectacular! Here are some places to go to find the best Quebec City Christmas decorations:

• Quartier Petit Champlain (these decorations stay up until March!)
• Place Royale Christmas tree
• German Christmas Market (spread out all across Old Quebec)
• Place d’Youville 
• Grand Allée: (known as the nightlife street, but is also beautiful in December, with illuminated buildings and trees)
• Parliament Building
• Avenue Cartier (a shopping street with lots of holiday lights hanging overhead)
• Place l’Hôtel-de-Ville
• Le Château de Frontenac (the inside of the hotel gets decked out, and there is a display right outside as well)
• Saint-Roch (a hip neighborhood with trendy shops and restaurants, with lots of lights and a 15 meter tall Christmas tree) 

Browse the Grand Marché de Noel

Le Grand Marché  is a giant indoor food marketplace, located just outside of Old Quebec. Here, you’ll find tons of tasty gourmet items, from fresh produce, specialty meats and cheeses, local wine, pastries, poutine vendors, and more.

It gets a festive makeover during the holiday season as Le Grand Marché de Noel. This is a different kind of Christmas Market – a very delicious one!

You’ll find over 200 vendors selling gourmet food products, along with holiday tableware, decorations, local gifts, and much more. This is where to go when you want to find unique local products that you can’t find anywhere else.

They also have culinary workshops, entertainment, and meet and greets with Santa Claus.

Le Grand Marché de Noel takes place from November 25, 2024 to January 5, 2025.

Go Christmas shopping

If you’re looking to get some of your Christmas shopping done while you’re visiting, then you’re in luck because Quebec City has plenty of charming shopping streets, specialty boutiques, and unique shops to check out.

You’ll get to stroll down some of the city’s most beautiful streets while checking out some of the beautiful Christmas lights, decorations, and displays.

Here are some of the best places to get your shop on in Quebec City:

• Quartier Petit Champlain: This is Quebec City’s most beautiful street, especially at Christmas. The whole area is decked out with decorations, sparkling lights, and you’ll find one-of-a-kind boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, local souvenir shops, and more.
  
• Cartier Street: This street is located right outside of the city walls and has a bit more local vibe, with lots of upscale shops.
  
• Rue Saint Jean: One of the main thoroughfares in Quebec City, which is dotted with plenty of souvenir shops, clothing boutiques, and specialty stores. Rue Saint Jean also stretches out of Old Quebec, and the further out you go, you’ll also come across fine gourmet food boutiques, secondhand shops, and record stores.
  
• Rue Saint-Joseph Est: Located in the trendy Saint-Roch neighborhood, this street is lined with hip boutiques and is illuminated with dazzling lights, along with a 15 meter tall Christmas tree.

Enjoy a Christmas cocktail at Miracle

If you’re looking for a holly jolly time, then grab an extra festive Christmas themed drink at the Miracle pop-up bar. 

Miracle takes over bars in cities all across the US, Canada, and a few other countries and gives them a Christmas makeover. You’ll find Miracle in Quebec City at Maelstrom in Saint-Roch.

They feature a menu full of fun holiday-inspired cocktails, with tons of over-the-top Christmas decorations that will make even the Grinch get into the holiday spirit.

While I didn’t get a chance to visit the Miracle in Quebec City, I loved the ones in San Francisco and NYC, and always had a great time!

Warm up at a warming station

One thing I noticed about Quebec City in the winter was all the les stations chaleureuses, or warming stations, that are scattered all around the city. The city installs them in December, and they stay up through March,

The best part is that you’ll find these stations adorned with festive decorations, so they are the perfect spots to get a dose of Christmas cheer,, as well as warm up! They usually have fire pits and chairs so you can stop by, take a break, and hang out for a bit.

Here are some of the places where you can find a warming station:

• Parc Félix-Leclerc (in the center of Quartier Petit Champlain)
• Place d’Youville (near the skating rink)
• Parc Champlain (near the ferry terminal at the end of Rue Petit Champlain)
• Jardin Jeanne-d’Arc (within the Plains of Abraham)

Other things to do in Quebec City

Aside from the Christmas-specific activities I listed above, there’s plenty more fun things to do in Quebec City! Here are some of the other things to check out while you’re planning your Quebec City itinerary:

Take the Funicular: The Funiculaire du Vieux-Quebec connects the Upper and Lower Towns of Old Quebec. It’s the best way to travel between the two parts, as you’ll avoid climbing up steep stairs (which also get pretty icy), and there are some gorgeous views of the St. Lawrence River and snow-covered buildings of the Lower Town.

Learn about Quebec’s military history: Quebec City has such a unique history as the only fortified city north of Mexico. You’ll see this come alive before you when you visit some of the sites where famous historical events and battles took place. Some of the attractions to visit include the Fortifications of Quebec, Plains of Abraham, and the Citadelle.

Nordic Spas: If you’re craving some R&R, you’ll definitely want to spend some time soaking in a thermal bath at one of the city’s Nordic Spas. At Strom Spa, you’ll be able to soak in a heated whirlpool bath while gazing at views over the St. Lawrence River. For the full Nordic experience, you can also opt to finish with a soak in a cold bath, which eliminates toxins from the body and reduces stress. 

Montmorency Falls: These waterfalls are located about 15 minutes outside of Quebec City, and are an especially stunning sight during the winter when the water freezes over. At 83 meters high (~272 feet), Montmorency Falls is actually a full 30 meters (almost 100 feet) higher than Niagara Falls and you can take in its sheer size from one of the viewing platforms or suspension bridge. To get there, you can drive, take a taxi, take public transit, or join a guided tour.

Village Vacances Valcartier: This winter theme park is located 30 minutes outside of the city, and is a perfect day trip. Here, you’ll find plenty of fun winter activities, such as snow tubing, ice skating, a sugar shack (with frozen maple syrup!), an indoor waterpark, and a 6000 square foot spa.

Have you ever been to Quebec City at Christmas? What are some of your favorite things to do there?

More Quebec content you may enjoy:
23 Magical Things to Do in Quebec City in Winter
The Perfect 2 Day Quebec City Itinerary
20 Incredible Things to Do in Montreal in Winter
The Perfect 2 Days in Montreal Itinerary

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