11 Best Places to Visit in Québec

Located 80 km from Le Massif de Charlevoix, Québec city is one of North America's oldest and most charming destinations. It captivates visitors with its rich history and European-style architecture. Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features the stunning Old Québec district, where cobblestone streets, centuries-old stone buildings, and the iconic Château Frontenac transport travelers back in time.

Old-world charm is everywhere: stroll through Petit-Champlain, explore Place Royale, or walk along the Citadelle's fortified walls for a journey through centuries of history. The city’s festive spirit is alive year-round, from the legendary Winter Carnival and New France Festival to summer street performances and music festivals.

No matter the season, visitors can explore Québec’s outdoors and cultural scene through guided tours, river cruises, winter sports, and scenic trails.

About a 7-hour drive from Le Massif de Charlevoix, Forillon National Park in Gaspésie is a stunning coastal destination that highlights Québec’s natural beauty and rich maritime heritage. Perched at the eastern tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, this protected area borders the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Appalachian Mountains, offering a striking mix of dramatic cliffs, dense forests, and diverse wildlife.

Established in 1970, the 245 km² park protects a range of marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and tells the story of coastal fishing communities displaced during its creation.

Outdoor lovers will feel right at home here. Hike through forested trails and along cliffside paths like the iconic Les Graves Trail, which leads to Cap Gaspé Lighthouse, a prime spot for whale watching from shore.

If you’re up for a climb, the Mont Saint-Alban tower offers jaw-dropping panoramic views over the Gulf and surrounding highlands. Forillon is also one of the best places in Québec to see marine mammals, including seals and, in season, up to seven whale species.

That said, a few things to keep in mind: the park is remote, so having a car is essential; mosquitoes can be heavy in early summer; and coastal weather is famously unpredictable.

Montmorency Falls Park is a popular year-round destination just 15 minutes from Old Québec and about 1 hour from Le Massif de Charlevoix, known for its towering 83-metre waterfall that stands even taller than Niagara Falls. The park attracts nearly a million visitors annually, drawing in nature lovers, photographers, and thrill-seekers with its stunning views and adventurous activities.

Easily accessible by car, bus (via Métrobus 800), or bike, the park offers a wide range of activities in every season.

In summer, take the aerial tramway for sweeping views, cross the suspension bridge over the falls, or tackle the 487-step panoramic staircase built into the cliffside. For those seeking thrills, the double zipline and via ferrata routes offer a dose of vertical excitement.

In winter, the falls freeze into a dramatic wall of ice, a playground for seasoned ice climbers.

At the top, Montmorency Manor features a restaurant, panoramic terrace, and exhibits on the site’s past, from the 1759 Battle of Montmorency to the rise of local hydroelectricity.

During peak season, the site can get busy, so plan ahead for potential wait times at the tram or zipline.

Sainte-Anne-de-Sabrevois is a charming rural destination in Montérégie, located less than an hour from Montréal and about a 4 four-hour drive from Le Massif de Charlevoix. This spot is celebrated for its tranquil countryside, scenic riverfront views, and thriving agri-tourism offerings. This hidden gem offers visitors a relaxing escape into nature and local farm-to-table experiences.

Bordering the Richelieu River and surrounded by fertile farmland, the village offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, local history, and delicious regional flavours.

One of its most original spots? Domaine Pourki, a riverside resort with floating accommodations and a full slate of summer water activities.

In warmer months, Quai Ryan becomes a hub for paddlers, with free kayak rentals available. Cyclists can explore the quiet countryside on the “Exploration Champêtre” loop, meandering past farms and vineyards.

Whether you're craving a farm-fresh foodie escape, a relaxing paddle, or a gentle ride through the fields, Sainte-Anne-de-Sabrevois is perfect for slowing down and savouring simple pleasures, especially in summer.

Lac Wapizagonke is a picturesque lake nestled in La Mauricie National Park. Located between Shawinigan and Trois-Rivières and about a 2 hour and 30 minute drive from Le Massif de Charlevoix, this serene destination offers stunning landscapes ideal for hiking, canoeing, and nature photography.

This long, ribbon-like lake stretches for about 15 km, drawing in paddlers, hikers, nature lovers, and families looking for a serene swim or scenic picnic.

Calm waters, dense forests, and soft cliffs create that classic Laurentian vibe. The Le Passage lookout delivers one of the best panoramic views of the lake’s winding “S” shape, especially stunning in fall when the foliage blazes red and gold.

Easily accessed via the park’s scenic Parkway, Wapizagonke features multiple launch points, a family beach, picnic areas, and rentals for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.

It’s a popular spot in summer, so plan ahead, especially if you’re aiming for the Waber Falls trail, which includes portages and requires a good level of fitness.

Just under a 1-hour drive from Le Massif de Charlevoix, Le Monastère des Augustines is a unique wellness retreat in the heart of Old Québec, where history, healing, and heritage blend in a peaceful, restorative setting. Housed in a former monastery, it invites visitors to reconnect with themselves through mindfulness, culture, and holistic health experiences.

Founded in 1639 by three French nuns, the monastery was home to North America’s first hospital north of Mexico. Today, it invites guests to reconnect through restorative stays, with accommodations in heritage or contemporary rooms, no TVs or phones, just peace and quiet.

The experience includes healthy meals in silence, yoga, meditation, holistic treatments, and access to an award-winning museum that traces the Augustines’ legacy in health care across Québec.

What makes this place stand out is its deep commitment to sustainability, with geothermal energy, reused historic materials, and local artisan partnerships woven into every corner of the building.

Ideal for wellness seekers, caregivers, heritage buffs or anyone needing to unplug, the Monastery remains one of the Capital Region’s most peaceful secrets.

Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook is a top outdoor adventure destination in Québec’s Eastern Townships, located just 1.5 hours from Montréal and about a 4 hour and 30 minute drive from Le Massif de Charlevoix. Known for its dramatic gorge, scenic trails, and one of the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges, the park offers unforgettable experiences for hikers, families, and thrill-seekers alike.

Its crown jewel? A 169-metre suspension bridge, the longest pedestrian bridge in North America, soaring 50 metres above a dramatic gorge. Expect heart-pounding views from the very first step.

But there’s much more than the bridge. The park offers nearly 20 km of hiking trails winding through dense forest, complete with scenic towers, a natural cave, roaring waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints over the Coaticook Valley.

This is truly a four-season destination: hiking, mountain biking, disc golf, and a petting farm in summer; snowshoeing, fat biking, and even winter scooters and skating once the snow falls.

Whether you're chasing adrenaline, nature, or a touch of nighttime magic, Coaticook delivers a uniquely Québécois outdoor escape.

Île d’Orléans is a charming rural island just 15 minutes from Old Québec and about 1 hour and 30 minutes drive from Le Massif de Charlevoix, celebrated for its rich history, artisanal culture, and scenic landscapes. Often called Québec City’s “backyard garden,” this 33-kilometre island features six picturesque villages where heritage homes, local flavors, and breathtaking views offer an authentic taste of Québec’s countryside.

With its well-preserved heritage homes, historic churches, and panoramic roads flanked by fields and orchards, the island feels worlds away, despite being minutes from downtown.

It’s also a haven for local flavours: sweet strawberries, ice cider, artisan cheeses, maple syrup, and more, all available right from the source.

Easily reached via the Île d’Orléans bridge, built in 1935, the island draws thousands each year with its wineries, farms, lookouts, markets, and cultural attractions.

Village Vacances Valcartier is located about 45 minutes from Québec City and about a 1 hour and 45 minute drive from Le Massif de Charlevoix offering year-round excitement for visitors of all ages. From exhilarating snow tubing in winter to sprawling outdoor waterparks in summer, and even an incredible ice hotel experience, this all-in-one destination combines fun, relaxation, and family-friendly accommodations.

It's especially famous for its winter snow slide park, the largest in North America, and for Bora Parc, a tropical indoor waterpark open year-round with slides, a wave pool, lazy river and more.

Combining activities, on-site lodging, and options for both relaxation and fun, Valcartier is a popular spot in Québec for family getaways, weekends with friends, or short stays year-round.

The Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer is a dramatic natural attraction in Bas-Saint-Laurent, located just 40 minutes from Rimouski and about 215 kilometres from Le Massif de Charlevoix, known for its deep gorge, waterfalls, and one of Québec’s highest pedestrian suspension bridges. This awe-inspiring site offers a mix of adventure and natural beauty that captivates visitors seeking unforgettable outdoor experiences.

This dramatic canyon, carved by the Rimouski River, features over 20 km of trails and a standout highlight: a 99-metre-long suspension bridge dangling 63 metres above the gorge, offering heart-stopping views.

The site is well developed with free parking, snack bar, boutique, and even accommodations including cabins and yurts. A few things to know: admission is higher than at most regional parks, some trails involve steep stairs, and the final access road can be rough in places.

Still, for outdoor enthusiasts, families seeking adventure, or anyone chasing a next-level nature experience, this is a must-see in Québec.

Four Seasons at Their Fullest

Québec’s four distinct seasons each bring their own charm and character. 

Spring, from March to May, comes with cool temperatures and occasional rainfall, ideal for experiencing a traditional cabane à sucre (sugarshack) and spotting local wildlife. In summer, from June through August, warm days open the door to outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking, it's also the peak of festival season across the province. 

Fall, stretching from September to November, offers crisp air and stunning foliage, perfect for scenic drives and harvest celebrations. Winter, from December to February, transforms Québec into a snow-covered wonderland, ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing, all topped off with magical Christmas markets in cities and towns.

To make the most of your trip, it’s a good idea to pack layers for Québec’s often-unpredictable weather. Since both summer and winter are high seasons, booking your accommodations in advance is strongly recommended. 

Checking local event calendars can help you plan around major festivals. And for a quieter experience, consider travelling in shoulder months like May or October.

When Is the Best Time to Explore Quebec?

Quebec shines year-round, but summer (June to August) offers warm temps perfect for outdoor adventures and festivals like the Montreal Jazz Fest. Fall brings stunning foliage and milder weather, ideal for sightseeing. 

Winter enthusiasts will love December to March for snowy activities, though bundle up as mercury can dip below -20°C. Spring sees fewer crowds and blooming nature, but pack layers for unpredictable weather that might affect some attractions.

What Outdoor Activities Are Best in Winter?

Winter in Quebec transforms into a playground for snow lovers. Hit the slopes at world-class ski resorts like Le Massif or try snowshoeing through pristine forests. For a unique experience, spend a night in the Ice Hotel near Quebec City.

Remember to dress in warm, waterproof layers and check weather forecasts before heading out. Heavy snowfall can impact travel plans, so flexibility is key when organizing your winter adventure in this frosty wonderland.