Canada Cruise: Must-See Attractions in Quebec City

Old Town Quebec City

The ideal way to discover Old Town Quebec City is by wandering the cobblestone streets filled with charming boutiques and vibrant specialty shops, including the beloved La Boutique de Noël de Québec. Enjoy street performers, outdoor cafes, and restaurants as you explore. Lower Town features the historic Place-Royale square, the site of Québec's first settlement. Take the funicular to Upper Town for breathtaking views of the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, which overlooks the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains. For an adrenaline rush, consider a helicopter tour over Québec City or join a Twilight Ghost Tour to uncover its storied past.

Île d'Orléans

Embark on a picturesque drive across the bridge to Île d'Orléans, where you'll find serene rural Québec reminiscent of the 1800s. Explore charming villages and summer heritage homes, and meet artisans creating everything from lovely textiles to intricately designed quilts. Food enthusiasts can indulge in local flavors at quaint farm stands offering delights like chocolat, fromage, vin et cassis (chocolate, cheese, wine, and blackcurrant).

One of the most prized local treats for both Canadians and visitors is the highly sought-after Québec maple syrup. The best way to understand the unique maple production process is to visit a traditional cabane à sucre (sugar shack). Here, you'll enjoy an authentic Québecois meal with live music and entertainment, culminating in a classic maple taffy pull, where this sweet delight is made right before your eyes. Très délicieux! Plus, you can find an array of easy-to-pack maple products, perfect for souvenirs that will make everyone envious of your fabulous cruise vacation to Québec.

Montmorency Falls Park

A short drive from Québec City reveals the breathtaking Montmorency Falls—Parc de la Chute-Montmorency—towering 98 feet higher than Niagara Falls, cascading powerfully into the St. Lawrence River below. This interactive destination offers an adrenaline-pumping experience: take the gondola to the top, traverse the thrilling suspension bridge, ascend the scenic hillside stairway, soar down a double zip line, or tackle one of three exciting via ferrate (rock climbing) routes. Alternatively, enjoy stunning views of the falls from the visitor center! An 8-mile guided cycling tour to the falls is also available.

Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica

Further up the St. Lawrence River beyond Parc de la Chute-Montmorency lies the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica, the oldest pilgrimage site north of Mexico. With a rich history spanning over 350 years and nearly 1 million visitors each year, its medieval architecture, stunning paintings, sculptures, and over 200 stained glass windows are sure to impress, regardless of your religious beliefs.

You can easily visit the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica alongside Parc de la Chute-Montmorency since they’re along the same route. Plus, enjoy a stop at the Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum, showcasing the works of a master craftsman who has created copper pieces for both the Basilica and notable clients such as Walt Disney and Pope Pius XII.

No matter what you choose to experience during your Canada & New England cruise vacation in Québec, make sure to take advantage of a pre- or post-cruise stay to soak it all in. Don't miss sampling everything maple, classic Québec poutine—a delightful mix of French fries, cheese curds, and brown gravy—and beaver tails, a fun pastry treat shaped like a, you guessed it, beaver tail. If time doesn't allow you to do it all on your first trip, c'est la vie; you're always welcome to return. After all, this slice of Europe in Québec is just a stone's throw away.