5 Days in Fall Itinerary

A guided tour of Old Québec is the perfect introduction to over 400 years of history. This is French North America's birthplace: learn about battles, French Canadian culture, important historical figures and sites to visit after your tour. 

After your guided tour, saunter through the streets of Upper Town. Enjoy quaint streets lined with boutiques and restaurants. Then duck down quiet roads to admire the blend of French and British architecture. Look for the hidden parks and walk along the fortification walls. Have lunch in one of the best restaurants inside the walls. 

This 240-acre park is one of the best places in Québec City for fall foliage. Walk along the pathways and visit Jardin Jeanne-d'Arc. The museum is great to learn about the famous battles of the Plains of Abraham as well. 

Set next to the Citadelle or Pierre-Dugua-De Mons Terrace, the best spots for postcard views of Québec City. Reach the top and soak up the gorgeous fall colours. Château Frontenac stands majestically over Old Québec, and from here, love affairs with the city take root. 

As the golden hour begins to wane, the Croisières AML dinner cruise departs. Watch the sunset on the deck with a glass of wine and enjoy a gourmet dinner. Sailing on the St. Lawrence River, the cruise offers stunning views of Québec City.  

In the morning, before 9 am, Place Royale is peaceful and spectacular. Sit at a table outside La Maison Smith, sipping a café au lait. Admire Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, a charming church which stands in the place of the first trading post in 1608. This square is where Samuel de Champlain founded Québec City more than 400 years ago. 

It's the oldest shopping street in Québec City. We love this narrow street, with its artisan boutiques and French restaurants. Some of the best bowls of French onion soup, an autumn favourite, are found here as well. You will also find the funiculaire, which offers transfers between Lower and Upper town, as well as a nice view. 

Rent a bike and ride along Promenade Samuel-De Champlain. This pathway hugs the shore of the St. Lawrence River on one side, and the tree-covered cliffs on the other. In autumn, when the fall foliage is at its most vibrant, this corridor is one of our favourite places to be. There is public art, pretty views, and plenty of places to relax and enjoy a picnic. 

In Wendake, not far from Québec City, this is one of our favourite evening activities. Onhwa' Lumina is an interactive 1.2 km trail highlighting the history and culture of the Huron-Wendat Nation. It's a rhythmic vibrant journey with video and light installations.  

Standing at 83 metres-high, Montmorency Falls is taller than Niagara Falls. Watch the fall from the pathway above the falls, then take the stairs to the base. In fall, the waterfalls are stunning, and we recommend enjoying them from every angle. You can also ride the cable car and try the zipline. 

This island near Montmorency Falls is an integral part of Québec's food scene. Spend a few hours exploring the island and trying the local terroir. Chez Mag has the best lobster rolls and a chocolate-dipped cone at Chocolaterie de l'Île d'Orléans is a must. A gourmet lunch at Cassis Monna et filles is always a good idea and several wineries are open to the public for tastings. The drive on Route du Mitan and the visit of Île d’Orléans is highly recommended as the fall colours are gorgeous here. 

Follow Hwy 138 through Beaupré to Canyon Sainte-Anne for some afternoon fun. Hike the trails and walk across the 60 metre-high suspension bridge. AirCanyon zips through the canyon at 50 km/h and offers unforgettable views of the canyon and Sainte-Anne river. 

Not far from Canyon Sainte-Anne is Cap Tourmente – the best place to view snow geese from late September to mid-October. This national wildlife area has marshes, plains, and forests. It also hugs the Saint-Lawrence river. There are over 180 bird species here, but in autumn (and spring) the snow geese are the superstars.

Microbrasserie des Beaux-Prés is another great spot to admire the geese, while drinking a local beer of course! 

Some of the best fall foliage is at Jacques-Cartier National Park. Go on a hiking tour through the park with Quatre Natures, watch wildlife or go canoeing. This is also a perfect place for snapping autumn photos that are sure to make your friends and family jealous! 

Québec's climate makes it an ideal place for an authentic Nordic spa experience. After hiking at the park, go to Nordique or Sibéria spa for an afternoon of pampering. Both surrounded by tall evergreens and snuggled beside small rivers. The plunge pools, saunas, and hammocks are ready and waiting! In Old Québec, along the St. Lawrence River, Strøm Spa is another wonderful option.  

Tonight, try one of the best fine dining restaurants of Old Québec for an evening to remember.  

Autumn is the best time for whale watching in Québec. Whale watching tours depart in the morning, travelling along the St. Lawrence River to the Saguenay fjord. There is a large boat tour, which is perfect for families and those who like to move around.

For an up close and personal experience, we recommend a zodiac boat tour. Whichever boat you book, make sure your camera is fully charged and keep your eyes peeled. Autumn is perfect for spotting humpback whales! 

In the evening, stroll through Old Québec and enjoy a patio (many have heat lamps) or venture to a restaurant in Saint-Jean-Baptiste or Montcalm for cocktails and dinner.