Québec and Charlevoix Itinerary: The Best in 7 Days

What better place to start than Québec City’s historic district? This UNESCO World Heritage site has points of interest around every corner, so head out on foot to see the unique blend of past and present in this historical neighbourhood. Perched high above the St. Lawrence River, Château Frontenac is said to be the “most photographed hotel in the world.” Step inside to see the sumptuous furnishings, browse the shops, or enjoy the fine dining. Outside, a leisurely stroll along Dufferin Terrace is the perfect way to admire the river and catch performances by street entertainers.

As the only walled city still standing north of Mexico, Québec City is an Instagrammer’s paradise. Get some of the best viewpoints in town atop the fortifications between the St. Louis and St. Jean Gates or delve into the secrets of the city’s walls with a guided tour. If you get hungry, take a break in one of the best restaurants inside the walls. 

The Québec City Citadelle—the biggest colonial fortress from the days of British North America—is still an active military base, and another great photo op.

This handsome historic building is home to Québec’s National Assembly. Take a stroll through the extensive gardens and admire the building’s main facade which boasts 26 bronze statues erected to the memory of key historical figures. 

This historical battle site no longer resounds to the burst of gunfire, but to the bursts of laughter of playing children and strolling families. After a relaxing time in this beautiful urban park, treat yourself to a meal at one of the many gourmet restaurants in Old Québec.

The first building erected by the French stood right here, in Place Royale. Today, the French and British architectural styles of this historic square serve as the backdrop for a host of activities in every season.

Place des Canotiers is a beautiful riverside area below the Château Frontenac where you can go for a stroll, cool down by the fountain, or just admire the view of the St. Lawrence. That should give you time to think about where you’d like to have your next delicious meal! 

This blockbuster museum presents crowd‑pleasing exhibitions on art, culture, and society. 

At 83 metres (272 feet) high—a full 30 metres (nearly 100 feet) taller than Niagara—the roaring Montmorency Falls always make a big impression. Get your fill of thrills on the double zipline or the via ferrata.

Blessed with a fertile soil, this little island haven is full of rolling farms and country charms. You’ll love the beautiful centuries-old villages! As you make your way around the island, be sure to stop at the many farm stands and shops where you can meet local producers and sample the fruits of their labours.

On to Charlevoix County! But on the way, stop to stretch your legs along the trails and suspension bridges that span Canyon Sainte-Anne, a very special rock formation that’s 1.2 billion years old.

Magnificent, breathtaking, sublime… words simply can’t do justice to Charlevoix, a stretch of villages set among hills and valleys bordering the St. Lawrence River. Artists are drawn here by the dozen, adding culture to the mix of delicious local products and wild expanses just waiting to be explored.

Baie‑Saint‑Paul has long been a source of inspiration for artists and artisans. Is it the town’s picturesque setting in a river valley? Or the bohemian soul of the place so evident in the shops and cafés? You be the judge. On Rue Saint‑Jean‑Baptiste, the colourful shops and art galleries are full of unique pieces, making them perfect for a leisurely bit of shopping.

Spend an afternoon contemplating the works of Canadian and international artists at the town’s contemporary art museum, then head over to a sunny patio to relax and savour a pint of local craft beer.

Foodies take note: Flavour Trail is a great gourmet adventure that will take you from Petite-Rivière-Saint-François to Baie Sainte-Catherine. From sparkling cider to exquisite chocolate, you’ll keep those hunger pangs deliciously at bay. Highlights include the Famille Migneron de Charlevoix and Laiterie de Charlevoix cheeseworks, Azulée and the Ferme Basque de Charlevoix.

Isle-aux-Coudres is a peaceful, bucolic island where you’ll want to slow down and savour the moment. Just hop on the free ferry, fill your lungs with fresh sea air, and admire the view as you sail over to a little slice of heaven on earth.

There’s no better way to visit Isle‑aux‑Coudres than on a bike. Choose one that suits your style: hybrid, commuter, electric, or even tandem. The 23‑km route is one long, enchanting vista. A quick stop at the shop and you’ll be on your way!

The Isle-aux-Coudres Mills ground to a halt in 1948 and stood silent until 1982. Today the watermill (est. 1825), windmill (est. 1836), and miller’s home—now an interpretation centre—are all celebrated pieces of Charlevoix’s heritage.

The legendary hospitality of the “Marsouins”—the name for Isle-aux-Coudres islanders—is alive and well at the Pedneault orchards and cider house. The family turns apples, pears, cherries, and plums from their orchard into all manner of delicious goodies, from honeys and jams to ciders and mistelles.

Head out along hiking trails to explore one of Mother Nature’s great masterpieces. This gorgeous park will leave you speechless.

This hunting and fishing lodge in the Charlevoix Forest is just the place for an authentic wilderness experience. Track black bears and beavers with professional, experienced guides who will make you feel right at home.

 The St. Lawrence Route from La Malbaie to Baie-Saint-Paul through Isle-aux-Coudres, is one of the prettiest and most scenic routes in North America. Enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and the St. Lawrence River as you travel from hilltop village to riverside town. There are plenty of tempting stops along the way: the Miellerie du Cratère de Charlevoix honey house, Alpagas Charlevoix alpaca shop, Maritime Museum, and more!

This grandiose pilgrimage site is a thing to behold, both inside and out. One of only 5 national sanctuaries in Québec, it makes for a one‑of‑a‑kind layover on your trip back to Québec City. A must!

Spend an evening aboard a ship, dining in a festive atmosphere and admiring the view of the city at night. It’s the perfect ending to a memorable holiday.