Old Quebec City Food Tour: A Guide to Exploring Culinary Delights

Quebec City, the capital of Canada’s Quebec province, is a city that blends French heritage with Canadian charm. It is a city that has so much to offer, but one of the best ways to experience its culture is through the Old Quebec City Food Tour. This tour takes you on a delightful feast through the UNESCO-listed walls of Old Quebec, showcasing a diverse range of culinary experiences that will tickle your taste buds. In this guide, we will explore what the tour entails and provide tips on how to make the most of it.

Overview

The Old Quebec City Food Tour is a three-hour walking tour that takes you through some of the key sites of Vieux Québec. This experience is perfect for food lovers, as it provides a unique opportunity to experience a cross-section of local cuisine with a knowledgeable guide. The group size is limited to eight people, ensuring personal service and a chance to interact with the guide and other participants.

What’s Included

The tour includes tastings from four different historic locations in Vieux Québec, culminating in a hearty lunch. Here is a rundown of the included stops:

La Bûche

This restaurant is located in the heart of Old Quebec on St-Jean Street. La Bûche is a perfect example of bringing traditional Québécois cuisine to modern-day diners. The restaurant has a farm-to-table philosophy, and everything is made in-house. You will have a chance to taste a three-course meal, which includes a Québécois pea soup, pâté chinois (a Quebec version of shepherd’s pie made with ground beef, corn, and mashed potatoes), and maple taffy for dessert.

Chez Paillard

Chez Paillard is a French-style bakery that has been a staple in Old Quebec since 1952. Here you will taste the best croissants in town, which are made with butter imported from France.

Chez Boulay Comptoir Boréal

This restaurant located on St-Jean Street will introduce you to an authentic Québécois holiday dessert, the sucre à la crème. The sucre à la crème is a creamy fudge-like sweet made with brown sugar, cream, and butter.

A Boutique of Traditional Products at Epices de Cru

Finally, you will visit a boutique of traditional products. Epices de Cru is a collection of spices, heritage grains, and handcrafted products. Here, you will have an opportunity to taste traditional Quebec cheeses and to discover some herbs and spices used in the Québecois cuisine.

Booking the Tour

Booking the Old Quebec City Food Tour is easy. You can book through the Viator website at https://www.viator.com/tours/Quebec-City/Old-Quebec-City-Food-Tour/d626-199637P1?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383. The tour cost is CAD 78.01 per person, and if you want to include alcohol, the tour cost is CAD 102.76 per person. Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour tends to sell out quickly.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour meets at front of Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac Hotel, located at 1 Rue des Carrières, Québec, QC G1R 4P5. The meeting point is easily accessible and less than a 10-minute walk from top attractions like the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral and Place Royale.

Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

Here are some tips to help you make the best of the Old Quebec City Food Tour:

• Eat a light breakfast before the tour to leave room for all the tastings you will enjoy along the way.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a lot of walking.
• Bring a water bottle, as you will be on foot for most of the tour.
• Take advantage of the guide’s knowledge by asking questions and engaging with them.
• If you have any dietary restrictions, inform the tour operator in advance. They will do their best to accommodate your needs.

Book Your Tour Now

The Old Quebec City Food Tour is an excellent opportunity to learn about local traditional cuisine, experience Quebec City’s history, and make new friends. Book the tour today and get ready to indulge in all that this beautiful city has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quebec City

Quebec City is a charming city in Canada that attracts tourists from all over the world. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, there’s something for everyone in Quebec City. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city, you may have some questions. To help you plan your visit, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Quebec City.

1. What is Quebec City known for?

Quebec City is known for its rich history and charming old-world European feel. The city’s most famous landmark is the Chateau Frontenac, a grand castle-like hotel overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Quebec City is also known for its delicious French-inspired cuisine, including poutine, crepes, and tourtiere. Additionally, Quebec City is famous for its winter carnival, a two-week-long event filled with parades, ice sculptures, and other winter-themed activities.

2. When is the best time to visit Quebec City?

The best time to visit Quebec City depends on your preferences. If you’re interested in experiencing the city’s famous winter carnival, plan your visit in late January or early February. However, if you prefer warmer weather, visit in the summer months of June through September. Keep in mind that summer is peak tourist season, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices.

3. What are the top attractions in Quebec City?

There are many top attractions in Quebec City, including: – The Chateau Frontenac: This grand hotel is a Quebec City landmark and a must-see for any visitor. – Old Quebec: This historic district is full of charming cobblestone streets, old buildings, and local shops and restaurants. – Montmorency Falls: This stunning waterfall is higher than Niagara Falls and can be viewed from a cable car or hiking trails. – Plains of Abraham: This park was the site of a famous battle between the French and English armies and now offers scenic views and outdoor activities. – Quebec City Winter Carnival: This annual winter festival is a highlight for many visitors, with ice sculptures, parades, and other winter-themed activities.

4. What is the currency in Quebec City?

The currency in Quebec City is the Canadian dollar (CAD). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, or airports. Most businesses in Quebec City accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

5. What language is spoken in Quebec City?

The official language of Quebec City is French. However, many people in Quebec City also speak English, especially in tourist areas. It’s a good idea to brush up on some basic French phrases before your trip to show respect to the locals.

6. What is the weather like in Quebec City?

Quebec City has a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures can drop to below zero degrees Fahrenheit. Snow is common in the winter months, so make sure to pack warm clothes if you’re visiting during this time.

7. How do I get around Quebec City?

Quebec City is a pedestrian-friendly city, with many attractions within walking distance of each other. However, if you need to travel further, there are several options. You can take public transportation, such as buses or the metro, or rent a car or bike. Additionally, many tours offer transportation to popular attractions.

8. What is the nightlife like in Quebec City?

Quebec City has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, restaurants, and clubs open late. Most nightlife can be found in the Old Quebec and Grande-Allee areas. Additionally, the city is known for its music festivals, including the Quebec City Summer Festival and Jazz Fest.

9. What are some day trip options from Quebec City?

If you have extra time in Quebec City, there are several day trip options. Some popular options include: – Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier: This park offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and stunning scenery. – Île d’Orléans: This island is known for its scenic drives and local food and wine. – Mont-Sainte-Anne: This ski resort offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter and mountain biking and hiking in the summer.

10. Is Quebec City safe for tourists?

Yes, Quebec City is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any city, it’s important to take precautions to avoid theft and stay safe at night. Keep your valuables close, be aware of your surroundings, and stick to well-lit and busy areas at night.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Quebec City

Quebec City is a marvelous destination for tourists all around the world. With its historic architecture, beautiful sights, museums, and vibrant nightlife, Quebec City has a lot in store that visitors can explore. In this guide, we will take a look at how you can spend your time as a tourist in Quebec City.

1. Visit the Old Quebec City

Old Quebec City, also known as Vieux-Québec, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to numerous historic landmarks, cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture. The Old Quebec City is a great place to start your tour of the city. You can visit the Château Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world, and explore the Saint Lawrence River waterfront.

2. Explore the Quebec Citadel

The Quebec Citadel is a military fortress that is still in use today. The Citadel is open to the public, and you can take guided tours to explore the history and architecture of the site. The tour also includes observing the changing of the guard ceremony which takes place daily during the summer, and on weekends in the winter.

3. Admire the Montmorency Falls

Montmorency Falls is a must-visit attraction in Quebec City, located just a short drive away from the city center. The falls are 83 meters high, which is higher than Niagara Falls. Visitors can observe the falls from the walkways that surround the base or take a cable car down to the bottom. In summer, there are also zip line rides across the falls, providing a breathtaking experience.

4. Visit the Musée de la Civilisation

The Musée de la Civilisation is a museum located in the heart of Old Quebec that showcases the cultural history of Quebec City. The museum features numerous exhibits exploring the evolution of Quebec City from its founding in the 1500s to modern times. The museum also includes interactive exhibits and is great for families with children.

5. Take a food tour in Quebec City

Quebec City has a rich culinary culture, with numerous specialties that visitors should sample. Food tours are an excellent way to experience the local cuisine and explore various neighborhoods in the city. The tours typically last two to three hours and include several stops at local restaurants and food vendors.

6. Walk through the Battlefields Park

The Battlefields Park is a large urban park that covers over 100 hectares of land and is home to numerous historic sites. Visitors can walk through the park and explore the Plains of Abraham, the site of the famous 1759 battle during the French and Indian War. The park also includes gardens, walking trails, and numerous monuments and memorials.

7. Enjoy the nightlife in Quebec City

Quebec City has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants open all night long. You can enjoy live music, dancing, and a variety of drinks and food in one of the city’s many establishments. The city also has a reputation for its winter nightlife, with famous outdoor festivals such as the Québec Winter Carnival.

8. Visit the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec

The Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec is a museum of fine arts located in Quebec City. The museum features numerous collections of art, including works by Quebecois artists, European painters, and Inuit artists. The collections include paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative art. The museum frequently features temporary exhibits as well, ensuring that there is always something new to discover.

Book Your Tour Now

Quebec City is a historic and vibrant destination that offers a wide range of activities and sights for tourists. From exploring the Old Quebec City to admiring the Montmorency Falls, visiting museums, experiencing the local cuisine, and enjoying the nightlife, there is something for everyone in Quebec City. By following this guide, you can ensure that you have the best possible experience during your visit to Quebec City.