What to Do in Québec City in January

Do like the thousands of visitors who come from all over the world to visit this architectural wonder! You will be amazed by its entrance hall and its beautifully decorated rooms, which are reincarnated under a new theme each winter. Why not get out of your comfort zone by spending the night there?

In celebration of its 25^th anniversary, the Ice Hotel is partnering with Fairmont Le Château Frontenac to launch the only restaurant in America made entirely of snow and ice. Guests can enjoy a three-course gourmet meal in a distinctive yet refined atmosphere.

Old Québec has several stories to share through its heritage treasures. By entering the historical attractions, you will find out why the destination is so unique in America. Here are some of the historial gems in Old Québec to discover.

The winter magic continues to illuminate Old Québec as part of the Québec s'illumine event. A total of 75,000 lights and 1,000 lanterns have been hung throughout the area—on trees, staircases, lampposts, and more. Together, they create a 1.2 km-long winter light display stretching from Saint-Jean Street to Sault-au-Matelot Street.

In January, the lights take on a polar blue hue, reminiscent of snowflakes and icicles, sparkling like mirrors.

Spend a warm and magical evening  while watching the snowflakes gently falling down.

• The domes installed on the Ophelia's patio allow you to keep an eye on the twinkling lights of Grande Allée throughout your meal.
• Avenue Cartier seduces thanks to the famous colourful lampshades. Don't miss anything of its magical atmosphere while seated in one of the heated domes of the Sushi X restaurant.
• Le Sacrilege’s terrace is one of Saint-Jean-Baptiste’s best kept secrets. Surrounded by stonewalls and mature trees, it now offers a festive atmosphere all year round thanks to its winter garden.

Produced in collaboration with the internationally renowned Québec firm Moment Factory, Onhwa’ Lumina is the only immersive multimedia experience of its kind to be open in winter in Québec. With a length of 1.2 km, it transports visitors to a magical world combining nature and technology with, as a backdrop, the rich history of the Huron-Wendat Nation. 

Skiers and snowboarders can take their pick of four different hills less than an hour from the city centre. See our 5 reasons to go skiing in the Québec City Area.

Snowshoeing is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the snowy outdoors. We’ve got great suggestions for hikes in all kinds of beautiful locations.

Once a vital mode of transportation between shores, ice canoeing has become the ultimate symbol of Québec’s northern spirit. And contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to be an athlete to give it a try! Dare to experience your first ice adventure safely with the seasoned guides at Ice Canoeing Experience, who now offer a new initiation package capped off with a cozy and rejuvenating session in a Nordic sauna.  

Have you ever heard of winter karting? Equipped with studded tires, the karts at K.C.R. Karting Château-Richer grip ice and snow with ease, giving you the chance to put your driving skills to the test.  

With these out-of-the-ordinary activities, we bet your teen will have a blast they'll never forget!

The Québec City area has several centers for practicing oversized tire cycling in the forest, including Empire 47, which now offers a new electric shuttle that makes reaching the summit effortless.

In town, it is also possible to try out this activity along with a guide on a flat course, or by renting a fatbike with Tuque & bicycle experiences or Echo Sports Tours.