Walk historic ramparts - only walled city north of Mexico!

Experience Quebec City's unique fortifications - only remaining walled city in North America north of Mexico! Fortification tours walk 4.6 km of ramparts surrounding Upper Town, explore four historic gates (St. Louis, St. Jean, Kent, Prescott), visit fortification interpretation centers, and climb observation points. Learn about French colonial defenses, British military engineering, star fortress design (Citadelle!), and preservation efforts. Tours include panoramic city views, military history, UNESCO significance, and architectural details. Walk where soldiers patrolled for centuries protecting New France. It's defensive architecture marvel!
Discover our top picks for fortification tours in Quebec City

This Quebec City 101 Tour with Funicular ride included is filled with fun, surprise, and useful information! Stroll the charming streets of Old Quebec and soak in the historic atmosphere of one of North America’s oldest cities. Visit many of Québec City’s top attractions in the Upper and Lower Town districts, including Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Terrasse Dufferin, Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, Place Royale, Fortifications of Québec, and Quartier Petit Champlain, all enriched with engaging stories. If the funicular is unavailable, we can arrange a cab ride or provide a ticket to use later, at your discretion. A 15–20% tip for your guide is strongly recommended at the end of the visit. This walking tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a full city overview!

Welcome history buffs and nature enthusiasts! This Tour brings a new experience of History: walking through UNESCO site, the Tour describes historical facts in relation to world events leading the Europeans to settle in Quebec and North America. In addition to major historical events, the tour highlights how nature, climate and geography, affects culture and transform history. While discovering the oldest part of Quebec City, your guide highlights the multiple adaptations required to a sub arctic climate in architecture, in people's life and on urban setting. In addition to history, the tour illustrates the current realities in Quebec's economy and politic.

Explore Québec City on this private, guided walking tour and experience the city in a way group tours simply can’t offer. Your dedicated guide will lead you through Old Québec, bringing to life the rich history of North America’s oldest city. Discover impressive archaeological sites, centuries-old buildings, picturesque homes, grand cathedrals, imposing fortifications, and charming narrow streets that each hold a story of their own. Because it’s private, every moment is tailored to your pace, interests, and curiosity. Want more photography stops, deeper historical insights, or local recommendations? Your guide adapts the tour just for you, creating a personalized experience you won’t find anywhere else. If the funicular is closed, we can arrange cab transport to avoid having to walk up the hill, or we can provide a ticket to be used later in the stay, at the customer's discretion (if they wish to walk up). A 15-20% tip is strongly recommended at the end of the visit.

Discover the rich history and charm of Quebec City on a 2-hour walking tour with Urban Horizons Tours. Step inside the city's historic fortifications with a knowledgeable local guide. This immersive tour brings centuries of stories to life as you visit landmarks like the Parliament Building, Château Frontenac, and Place Royale. Uncover fascinating insights into Quebec’s colonial past, vibrant culture, and architecture. Rated 5 stars on Google by happy guests, Urban Horizons Tours is committed to delivering memorable experiences with personal attention and expert storytelling. Join us to discover Old Quebec like a local! • Authentic local insight – Led by a passionate, knowledgeable guide from Quebec City • Balanced itinerary – A mix of famous landmarks and hidden gems within the fortifications • Accessible and efficient – A well-paced 2-hour walk with no unnecessary detours • Independent exploration encouraged – Ends in Lower Town so guests can continue exploring on their own

The Looking for things to do in Quebec City? Choose from 2 different walking tours and 3 start locations. The Upper Town scavenger hunt takes you from the Plains of Abraham, passing by the Citadel, the Parliament, the Opera, as well as the Capital Observatory. The Lower Town scavenger hunt starts at Château Champlain, or at the Cruise Terminal, both follow the same circuit and see the same sites + end near their start points. You will need to solve challenges at each stop to discover your next destination.

The Perfect Combination! This high-end gourmet tour combines culinary and cultural discoveries in Old Quebec. Accompanied by an experienced, certified guide, you'll discover the history of Quebec City through delicious bites showcasing the cuisine of our favorite Old Quebec restaurants. Arrive hungry because this five-course experience includes two appetizers, two main dishes, and a delicious dessert, all inspired by our region’s culinary traditions. To elevate the experience, selected wine pairings are included throughout the evening, making this tour as enriching for the mind as it is satisfying for the appetite! It is strongly suggested that you tip your guide 15-20% at the end of the tour. If the funicular is closed, we can arrange cab transport to avoid having to walk up the hill, or we can provide a ticket to be used later in the stay, at the customer's discretion (if they wish to walk up).

Immerse yourself in the European charm of Québec – a unique city that is today recognized as the birthplace of French North America. As you stroll around its cobbled streets, you will discover clues that will transport you back into the 400 years of history of this UNESCO World Heritage gem. Are you ready to discover the secrets of Québec? Highlights: Take a stroll on North America’s oldest streets, along the Fortifications of Québec. Discover the place where Québec City was officially founded. Be puzzled by the mystery of the cannonball tree. Learn about the founders of the capital of New France. Try a new type of experience, the perfect mix between a tour, an outdoor escape game, and a treasure hunt. The city game will take you about 1.5 hours to complete, but there’s no time limit which will allow you to go at your own pace. You won't need a guide, just download the app, go to the starting point, and begin the adventure.

Discover Québec City's rich history and vibrant culture on this private guided walking tour. Starting in the Upper Town district, your guide will walk you through centuries of history, from the early 1600s to the present day. This tour is tailored to your preferences, allowing you to explore Québec City's iconic sites and hidden gems at your own pace. Stroll through Old Québec's narrow streets and stone buildings while learning about the city's unique heritage. Visit landmarks like the Fortifications of Québec, the only remaining walled city in North America, and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, one of Canada's oldest stone churches. See the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and enjoy views of the scenic St. Lawrence River from Terrasse Dufferin. Conclude your tour back in the Upper Town, having experienced a blend of history, architecture, and local stories.

Discover Québec City's rich history and vibrant culture on this private guided walking tour. Starting in the Upper Town district, your guide will walk you through centuries of history, from the early 1600s to the present day. This tour is tailored to your preferences, allowing you to explore Québec City's iconic sites and hidden gems at your own pace. Stroll through Old Québec's narrow streets and stone buildings while learning about the city's unique heritage. Visit landmarks like the Fortifications of Québec, the only remaining walled city in North America, and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, one of Canada's oldest stone churches. See the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and enjoy views of the scenic St. Lawrence River from Terrasse Dufferin. Conclude your tour back in the Upper Town, having experienced a blend of history, architecture, and local stories.

A flexible and personalized shore excursion, perfect for cruise passengers! Make the most of your time ashore with a private guided walking tour of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and North America’s oldest fortified city. Discover impressive archaeological sites, historic buildings, picturesque houses, spectacular cathedrals, imposing fortifications, and charming narrow streets while your local guide brings the city’s history to life. The tour is paced comfortably and tailored to your group. If the funicular is closed, cab transportation can be arranged, or a funicular ticket can be provided for later use during the stay, according to your preference. A 15-20% tip is strongly recommended at the end of the visit.

Enjoy a French Canadian culinary adventure through the best selection of Old Québec restaurants at night. Guided by a licensed local expert, you’ll savor the city’s must-try dishes while learning about its history, culture, and food traditions through insider stories. Stroll past iconic landmarks under the glow of streetlights, including the Fortifications of Québec, Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale, and Grande Allée. This walking tour blends gastronomy, history, and atmosphere for a truly immersive evening experience. Departure is at 5:15pm from the Tourny Fountain. A 15-20% tip is strongly recommended at the end of the tour.

Visit four spectacular famous cities in Eastern Canada: Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec in five days! Experience an unforgettable waterfall view and enjoy the colorful night view of the Niagara Falls! Ride on the Hornblower Cruise to experience the waterfall views of Niagara Falls from multiple angles. Complimentary Skylon Tower ticket is included. You may enjoy authentic French food in Quebec at your own expense. The tour will not visit Thousand Island after 10/15/2022 since it will close. Room Details All hotel rooms are based on two Full / Double beds or one King/Queen bed depends on what hotel availiable on the day. The maximum occupancy per room is four travelers. One Room Selection If you are a party of more than four guests or desire to have separate rooms, please provide a separate booking. Avoid traveling in a different bus? If you have more than one booking, please provide all confirmation numbers once your bookings are complete.

A must-do experience for North American visitors to Quebec City; In-depth and fun historical overview of Old Québec, a unique historic district and World Heritage site featuring hundreds of history markers. Most first-time visitors do not know to what a great extent Canada and US history are intertwined. Do you know the links between French Canada, Quebec and your part of the continent? There is no better place to discover these connections than in beautiful Quebec City. Discover how early French settlers influenced by many continental events - Manifest Destiny, French & Indian War, Boston Tea Party, American Revolution, War of 1812 , American Civil War, Alaska Purchase, Canadian Confederation... - shaped Quebec and Canada. During our 2.5-hour walking tour, discover sites in both Upper and Lower Town, highlighting the significant role played by Quebec City in the history of North America and in the creation of modern Canada. Convenient meeting point: your Old Quebec hotel.

One of North America's oldest settlements, Quebec is an open air museum. With its Unesco World Heritage Old Town, with its views from the boardwalk and its cliff-top position, this city knows exactly how to seduce its travellers. Know all about Place Royale, the birthplace of French America, and see the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church, the oldest stone Church in North America. Walk through the Lower Town, a historic district with a French flair. Pass Petit Champlain, the oldest commercial district in North America, and the funicular that connects Terrasse Dufferin with the Lower Town. Have a look at the Notre-Dame de Quebec church, one of the oldest churches in Canada. View the Hotel de Ville, the City Hall, in the heart of Old Quebec and listed as a Unesco World Heritage site. Pass the Rue de Tresor, a lively open air art gallery, with hundreds of artists displaying their works, and marvel at the Citadelle de Québec, the only remaining colonial fortification in Canada.

Combining the Upper Town with the Lower Town neighborhoods and see all the main attractions plus hidden gems all in one day! At your own pace, explore some of the most stylish ‘Quartiers’ of Quebec City. What a lovely way in beginning your tour inside the prestigious fortification walls. You will see a wide variety of architectural and historical sites which dates far back as the 17th century. Once venturing outside the only remaining city walls north of Mexico, the tour will lead you through revitalized and creative neighborhoods of Quebec City. Enjoy pedaling in tree-lined covered streets of Montcalm, a vibrant cultural neighborhood. Ride down the winding secret passage trail to reach the bike path along the majestic Saint Lawrence River. Discover the artistic neighborhood with its unique colorful spiral staircases and hear fascinating stories . What an amazing chance to mingle with local Quebecois at the “Grand Marché”, sample local delights and meet local producers.
Only fortified city north of Mexico - unique in North America!
Walk complete circuit of city walls - scenic and historic!
Best city views from atop fortifications!
Learn about defensive architecture and warfare!
Walk fortification walls with guide explaining history.
Visit four historic gates and defense towers.
In-depth museum and wall construction education.
Capture ramparts and city views from walls.
Full ramparts walk: 2 hours. Gates tour: 90 min. Museum: 1-2 hours.
St. Louis, St. Jean, Kent, Prescott - each with unique history!
Panoramic views of Old Quebec, St. Lawrence River, surrounding areas!
Bastions, powder magazines, cannons - military engineering!
Learn about sieges, defenses, and fortification evolution.
Fortifications key reason for World Heritage designation!
FREE to walk ramparts - tours provide historical context.
Fortifications Interpretation Center ($4) shows wall construction - worth it!
Complete circuit walk: 2-3 hours, mostly accessible.
Winter: Ramparts can be icy - wear proper boots with traction!
Best views from Dufferin Terrace section and Governor's Walk.
St. Louis Gate most iconic - photograph from inside and outside Old Quebec.
Summer sunset walks magical - ramparts beautifully lit.
Some sections wheelchair accessible, others have stairs.
A: Yes! 4.6 km of ramparts FREE to walk. Mostly accessible path atop walls. Some stairs, some flat sections. Takes 2-3 hours to complete. Partial walks possible (Dufferin Terrace to St. Louis Gate popular section). Beautiful views throughout!
A: Four main gates: St. Louis (most iconic, access from Grande Allée), St. Jean (busiest, shopping access), Kent Gate, Prescott Gate. All FREE to see/photograph. St. Louis most photogenic. Each has unique history and architecture. Visit them all!
A: Walking ramparts FREE! Fortifications Interpretation Center: $4 (optional museum). Citadelle: $16 (guided tours). Most fortification experience free - tours and museums add historical context. Budget-friendly historical attraction!
A: Complete circuit: 2-3 hours walking. Popular section (Dufferin to St. Louis): 30-45 minutes. Depends on pace and photo stops. Accessible for most fitness levels. Don't rush - enjoy views and history!
A: Partially! Some rampart sections accessible (Governor's Walk, portions of Dufferin Terrace). Other sections have stairs. Gates viewable from ground level. Not fully accessible but many areas work. Check specific sections for mobility needs.
A: Strategic military importance! Protected French colonial capital from British, then British defended against Americans. Only walled city north of Mexico preserved. UNESCO World Heritage for fortifications. Defensive architecture masterpiece! Walls built 1608-1850s over time.
A: Summer (June-Sept): Warm, long days, all accessible. Fall: Beautiful foliage views. Winter: Magical but icy (proper boots required!). Sunset year-round: Golden light and city lights coming on. Morning quieter for photos. Always beautiful!
A: Ramparts walk: FREE. Guided tours: $40-60 (2 hours). Interpretation Center: $4. Citadelle (fortress): $16. Self-guided very affordable - tours provide history and military context. Both options excellent!
UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Quebec
Iconic Château Frontenac and historic architecture
Authentic French Canadian culture and cuisine
Rich history and fortifications
Charming European atmosphere
Perfect blend of history and romance
Quebec City enjoys four distinct seasons. Summers are warm (65-80°F/18-27°C), winters are cold (10-30°F/-12-1°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.
June to September offers the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.
July to August brings peak tourist season with warm weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
October to May offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and snow.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Explore French colonial, Victorian, and Château-style masterpieces!
Tour the iconic castle-hotel - most photographed hotel in the world!
Explore the iconic Château Frontenac and its surroundings on guided tours that delve into Quebec City's rich history and architectural splendor.
Taste French-Canadian cuisine, poutine, tourtière, and culinary delights!
Explore 400 years of history from New France to modern Quebec!
Explore UNESCO World Heritage walled city with European charm!
Excellent public transportation with buses and funicular. Walking is perfect for exploring Old Quebec, and organized tours provide historical context.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Quebec City adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.