Where to Stay in Quebec City – The Best Hotels by Neighbourhood + Map
Quebec City is one of my favourite places to visit in Canada. It’s where the French first set up shop in North America.
With its cobblestone streets and gabled houses, it still retains that old-world European charm. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic getaway. It’s also one of one of the most instagrammable cities in Canada.
And the Quebec food…well, that’s simply out of this world.
Although the old town is relatively small, I usually suggest that visitors stay at least a few days to take in all of the things to do in Quebec City. Or just to take it slowly and enjoy.
If you want to know where to stay in Quebec City, this guide has got you covered.
Based on my many visits to Quebec City, I’ve compiled this list of the best neighbourhoods to stay in during your visit, along with my hotel recommendations for each of them.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Tips on Choosing a Quebec City Hotel
Quick Overview: Where to Stay in Quebec City
Best Hotels in Quebec City by Neighbourhood:
Quartier Petit Champlain
Old Quebec – Upper Town
Old Port
Saint-Jean Baptiste
Saint-Roch
Montcalm Arts District
Unique Places to Stay in Quebec City
Stay in an Ice Hotel
Stay in a Monastery
Stay local
Map it!
Tips on Choosing a Quebec City Hotel
I wanted to highlight a couple of considerations when you’re choosing a place to stay in Quebec City.
If you’re a first-time visitor to Quebec, you’ll probably want to stay in a central location in Old Quebec. This is an ideal choice, but note that hotels in the old town tend to cost more, especially in high season (summer). However, Quebec City is not a big city and all of the areas I’ve described in this post are within walking distance to the old town.
By the way, you won’t need a car much in the city and I’d advise against driving to or in the old town. Many of the streets are pedestrian-only or very narrow and there is very little parking.
If you’re arriving by car, you should check to see if the hotel offers parking. Some of the hotels in the old town offer valet parking for an additional daily fee, whereas you’re more likely to find on-site parking at hotels that are a little further out.
Quick Overview: Where to Stay in Quebec City
| Hotel Name | Neighbourhood | Trip Advisor Rating (out of 5) | Star Rating | Cost | Check availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auberge Saint-Antoine | Quartier Petit Champlain | 5 | 4★ | $$$ | Book |
| Fairmont Le Château Frontenac | Old Quebec - Upper Town | 4.5 | 4★ | $$$ | Book |
| Hotel Manoir Victoria | Old Quebec - Upper Town | 4.5 | 4★ | $$ | Book |
| Hotel Manoir d’Auteuil | Old Quebec - Upper Town | 5 | 3★ | $ | Book |
| Hotel Le Germain Quebec | Old Port | 5 | 4★ | $$$ | Book |
| Hotel Le Priori | Old Port | 4.5 | 3.5★ | $$ | Book |
| Auberge J.A. Moisan | Saint-Jean Baptiste | 5 | 4★ | $$ | Book |
| Hotel du Vieux-Quebec | Saint-Jean Baptiste | 5 | 3★ | $$ | Book |
| Le 253 (Couette et Cafe 253) | Saint-Roch | 5 | 3★ | $ | Book |
| Hotel PUR | Saint-Roch | 4.5 | 3★ | $$ | Book |
| Auberge aux Deux Lions | Montcalm | 5 | 3★ | $ | Book |
| Le C3 Hotel de Art Vivre | Montcalm | 4.5 | 3★ | $$ | Book |
| Hotel de Glace | Valcartier | 4.5 | 3.5★ | $$$ | Book |
| Le Monastère des Augustines | Old Quebec - Upper Town | 4.5 | 3★ | $$ | Book |
Best Places to Stay in Quebec City by Neighbourhood
Below, you’ll find descriptions of the best neighbourhoods in Quebec City and some hotel suggestions for each of them.
I haven’t included any hostels only because I don’t have experience with them, but you can find some budget deals here.
Quartier Petit Champlain
Quebec City tourism calls this the “fairy tale neighbourhood” and I’d have to agree.
This is the oldest part of Quebec City, dating back 400 years. Now, it’s home to major landmarks, fabulous boutiques, and restaurants. Many of the shops are owned by a cooperative of local artisans, so it’s full of one-of-a-kind businesses and establishments.
Quartier Petit Champlain is often considered the oldest commercial district in North America, and the cobblestone pavement, stone buildings, shop front windows, and narrow streets still evoke that old-world feel.
It’s definitely a “must-wander” type area.
Ideal for: First-time visitors, those looking for romance, central location with a charming, European feel.
Neighbourhood highlights: Place Royale is where French-Canada was founded and the site of the oldest stone church in North America. See the Fresque des Québécois, a giant mural of Quebec life. Stop in at Bistro Sous le Fort for amazing cake drenched in maple syrup.
Hotel Recommendations in Quartier Petit Champlain:
Auberge Saint-Antoine (Luxury 4★ $$$) This Relais & Châteaux hotel is my absolute favourite in Quebec City. Just around the corner from Place Royale, it sits on a major archeological site, but has thoroughly modern amenities (heated bathroom floors!). Its restaurant, Chez Muffy is one of the best in town. See my detailed review here.
Auberge Saint-Antoine, Quebec City
Cheese plate at Chez Muffy at Auberge St. Antoine, Quebec City
Old Quebec – Upper Town
Fully enclosed by 4.6 kilometres of fortifications, Old Québec is like a time capsule. This is the heart of the city, and the perfect neighbourhood for strolling and taking in its European feel.
From the Upper Town, you’ll find sweeping views over the St. Lawrence River from the historic funicular or along Terrasse Dufferin. After you’re done admiring the iconic Chateau Frontenac, start exploring on foot.
Cafes, bars, and boutique shops line the alleyways and narrow streets winding through the Upper Town. Here you’ll also see the historic wall that divides this part of Quebec City from other neighborhoods—the French erected the massive stone fortification after the attack on the city in 1960. It’s the only one of its kind in North America.
Even the homes here are reminiscent of old France, with their stone walls and copper roofs. Even if you simply spend your time wandering around snapping photos, the Upper Town is worth it.
Ideal for: First-time visitors, families or those looking for romance, central and convenient location.
Neighbourhood highlights: Stroll along Dufferin Terrace, looking out onto the St. Lawrence Seaway (stunning at sunrise!). See the Citadelle’s ramparts and walk along the small streets like rue Saint-Louis. And if you don’t stay at the city’s castle hotel, the Château Frontenac, be sure to take a tour and find out about her colourful history.
Where to Stay in Old Quebec Upper Town:
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (Luxury, 4★ $$$)1 Rue des Carrières, Québec. Known as the most photographed hotel in the world, a stay at this elegant castle hotel is the penultimate Quebec City experience for those looking for the royal treatment. See my review here.
Hotel Manoir Victoria ( Mid-range, 4★, $$) 44 Cote du Palais, Québec.. This European-style hotel offers 156 rooms and suites, some with fireplaces. An affordable hotel in the heart of the city, it also has a spa, swimming pool and indoor parking.
Hotel Manoir d’Auteuil (Value, 3★ , $) 49, rue d’Auteuil Vieux-Québec. This romantic, art deco hotel is across from the Parliament buildings and ideal for travelers seeking a smaller, boutique environment.
Room at the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City, Canada
Here’s why the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City is known as the most photographed hotel in the world.
Bliss Tip:
Even if you don’t stay at the Chateau Frontenac, you can book a guided tour of this historical hotel and learn all about its ghosts.
Old Port
Both small boats and cruise ships line one side of this increasingly trendy neighbourhood on the St. Lawrence River. On the other side you’ll find enticing restaurants, galleries and antique shops housed in historic buildings that once belonged to grain and grocery merchants.
Although the Old Port is a quick jaunt from the Old Town, you’ll appreciate this slower setting. You can sip your coffee in relative quiet at one of the sidewalk cafes, or dip into some art galleries to find your newest muse.
The urban park of Place des Canotiers is a relaxing spot to sit back and soak up the action on the river, or to take in the views of the castle and the Petit-Champlain neighborhood.
Then there are the Bunge grain silos—despite their industrial appearance, at night they transform into a luminous piece of art representing the Aurora Borealis.
Yes, even the grain silos in Quebec City are stunning.
Ideal for: Visitors who want to be close to the heart of Quebec, but in a quieter, less tourist-heavy neighbourhood.
Neighbourhood highlights: Visit Place des Canotiers, an urban park with gorgeous view of the city; wander along Saint-Paul, Saint-Pierre and du Sault-au-Matelot streets looking for antiques and art.
Hotel Recommendations in Old Port:
Hotel Le Germain Quebec (Upscale, 4 ★, $$$) 126 Rue Saint-Pierre, Québec. This modern and elegant hotel makes its home in the 1912 office building of Dominion Fish & Fruit Limited. It’s a historic location with a modern feel and luxurious amenities.
Hotel Le Priori (Mid-range 3.5★ $$) 15, rue Sault-au-Matelot, Québec. A boutique hotel with 20 rooms and 8 roomy suites with fireplaces, this hotel is on one of the oldest streets in North America. The rooms feature exposed brick and art deco furniture and the ones facing the inner courtyard are super quiet.
Saint-Jean Baptiste
Nestled between Old Québec and Montcalm, Saint-Jean-Baptiste is a foodie’s paradise. This was one of the first neighborhoods to be settled outside the city gates. Leading out from the walled quarter, Saint-Jean street is the main drag and it’s lined with bakeries, chocolate shops, restaurants, pubs and independent shops. It’s easily accessible from old Quebec.
While here, visit J.A. Moisan for an authentic French grocer experience. It’s the oldest in the city, dating to 1871, and it sells cured meats, cheese, spices, and speciality Quebecois foods (like maple syrup, a.k.a liquid gold). Next, pop into Erico’s Choco-Musee to peruse the tiny chocolate museum attached to Erico’s chocolate boutique.
If you’re here to splurge on eating out, Saint-Jean Baptiste is the place to do it. Grab some pastries or coffee at one of the many patisserie (pastry shops) or boulangerie (bakeries) around here. For dinner, treat yourself to a fine meal at a restaurant like Le Moine Echanson or Albacore. The latter is especially known for its fresh seafood.
Ideal for: Foodies and those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife.
Neighbourhood highlights: Wander the street to enjoy the bistros, gelateria, microbrewery pubs and pick up local items for a picnic at J.A Moisan. Be sure to visit the Bibliotheque Claire-Martin, a church-turned-library with much of its original stained glasswork still intact.
Best Places to Stay in Saint-Jean Baptiste:
Auberge J.A. Moisan (B&B 4★ $$) 695 Rue Saint-Jean, Québec. This lovely Victorian B&B sits above J.A. Moisan, the oldest grocery store in North America. It has four small bedrooms tucked under the eaves and is gorgeously furnished in period style. Note, there is a narrow stairway leading to the rooms. Rates include breakfast and afternoon tea.
Hotel du Vieux-Quebec (Mid-range, 3★, $$) 1190 Rue Saint-Jean, Québec. Currently, the top-rated hotel on Trip Advisor, this 45-room independent hotel is surrounded by cobblestone streets and connected to a great restaurant, Le Tournebroche, which serves organic and local products. With its rooftop garden, this is the only carbon neutral hotel in the province.
Hotel du Vieux Quebec next to Bistro Tournebroche on rue St. Jean
Saint-Roch
Image courtesy of Ville de Québec
Saint-Roch is a former working‑class district that is now the trendy home to Québec City’s vibrant arts and technology scene. The main street, rue Saint‑Joseph Est, is lined with show venues, restaurants, furniture and décor stores, multimedia studios, brew pubs and bars.
This is the city’s “hip” neighbourhood and the place to be for foodies and nightlife seekers. It’s accessible within 5 minutes on foot from old Québec or Saint-Jean-Baptiste by walking down a few flights of stairs. It’s like descending into a different world!
Saint-Roch is definitely the most student-friendly area of Quebec City, so you’ll never be too far from a happy hour or live music event. There are a handful of excellent microbreweries to check out as well, including La Barberie and Noctem.
Want a unique way to soak up Saint-Roch’s creative spirit? Try Deux22, a clothing boutique, Mexican restaurant, and bar all in one. Add some tacos to your retail therapy!
Ideal for: This area is appreciated by foodies and those who enjoy a young, creative atmosphere.
Neighbourhood highlights: Check out the trendy shops along rue Saint-Joseph Est, eat in the most talked-about restaurants, and enjoy one of the pubs. Take a break at the Jardin Jean-Paul-L’Allier, a real oasis of greenery in the heart of the city.
Hotel Recommendations in Saint-Roch:
Le 253 – (B&B, 3★, $ ) 253 de la Reine St, Quebec City. A laid-back LGBT friendly B&B only 1.5 kilometres from the old Quebec district. Rustic rooms are decorated with simple, modern furnishings. All but one room have shared bathroom facilities.
Hotel PUR (Modern mid-range, 3★, $$ ) 395 Couronne St, Quebec City. Sleek rooms with modern furnishings are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minifridges, plus either European-style showers or Japanese soaking tubs. The suites have panoramic views of the city.
Montcalm Arts District
From Old Québec, the Montcalm neighbourhood is no more than a 10-minute walk away along Boulevard René-Lévesque Est. Montcalm is home to elegant homes, art museums, theatres, restaurants and the historic Plains of Abraham, site of the famous battle between the French and the English in 1759.
It’s also a prime place for nightlife, where discotheques sit alongside cigar clubs and cozy pubs on Grande Allee. It’s the place to hit up for dinner before a fun night out on the town.
If you would rather unwind and appreciate some fresh air (and people-watching), the Plains of Abraham are the largest green space in the city. At the center of it all is the small (but pretty) Jardin Jeanne d’Arc, with more than 150 species of plant life. In the middle of the gardens is a monument to Joan of Arc, sitting tall on her horse, overlooking the colorful floral carpet sprawled out before her.
Ideal for: This area is designed for culture lovers, and those who enjoy dinner and drinks along the Grande-Allée.
Neighbourhood highlights: Visit the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ), a real architectural gem showcasing both Québec and international art, Périscope theatre and see dance performances at the Grand Théâtre de Québec. Don’t miss Cartier Avenues shops and the artistic shades on local street lamps. Foodies will love Halles Cartier.
Hotel Recommendations in Montcalm Arts District:
Auberge aux deux Lions (Value, 3★, $) 25 Boulevard Rene-Levesque, Quebec. A small, boutique hotel a short walking distance of old Quebec and the Fine Arts Museum. Set in a renovated building dating to 1909, the hotel’s 14 rooms have a cozy, old world charm.
Le C3 Hotel de Art Vivre (Boutique, 3★, $$ ) 170 Grande Allee Ouest, Quebec. Located close to the art museum and Cartier Avenue, this recently renovated boutique hotel has colourful, urban-chic rooms, some with exposed brick walls, and a relaxing rooftop patio.
Unique Places to Stay in Quebec City
Stay in an Ice Hotel
Hotel de Glace, (3★, $$$) 1860, boulevard Valcartier, Quebec. In January through early March, you can stay in a hotel made entirely of snow and ice. Explore the beautiful Great Hall, chapel, ice slide, and enjoy a cocktail served in a glass made of ice at the Ice Bar. It’s perfect for a wintry romantic retreat.
Bliss Tip:
If staying overnight at the ice hotel isn’t for you, you can still get a ticket to explore the hotel, including transportation (45 minutes) from Old Quebec to the hotel. (Only available Jan to March).
Stay in a Monastery
Le Monastère des Augustines (3★, $$) 77 Rue des Remparts, Québec. Stay in a wellness-focused sanctuary in a restored 17th century monastery. Here, breakfasts are taken in silence and you can participate in wellness activities like yoga, meditation, massage therapy and reflexology. Guests can stay in the basic monastic cells with shared bathrooms, or in upgraded rooms with private bathrooms. There’s no TV or telephone in the rooms, but they do have Wi-Fi.
Stay local
You can find charming apartment rentals in Quebec City, many of them set in historic homes.
Search here for prices and availability on apartments in old Quebec City.
Map it!
More Information:
Learn more about Quebec City: Take a two-hour walking tour of old Quebec City.
Don’t miss: Montmorency Falls, 1.5 times higher than Niagara Falls and just 15 minutes from Quebec City. You can take a cable car to the top of the falls or a zipline across the front of the falls.
Tourism Information: Quebec City Tourism, Province of Quebec Tourism
Suggested Reading: Fodor’s Montreal & Quebec City (Full-color Travel Guide)
Pin it:
You may also like:
The 21 Best Instagram Spots in Quebec City, Canada
The Top 12 Things to Do in Old Quebec City
Top 10 Quebec Foods You Have to Try
Quebec City: The Best Place in North America to Visit at Christmas
