Step into the enchanting world of Old Quebec during the winter season, where the air crackles with the festive spirit of Christmas. Wander through the historic cobblestone streets, marveling at the twinkling lights and the German-style Christmas market that fills the air with the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread. As you warm your hands around a steaming cup of hot chocolate at the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the magnificent Nativity scene at the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral beckons, promising to unveil the true meaning of the season. But the true magic lies in the charming alleyways of Quartier Petit Champlain, where the spirit of the season comes alive in a way that will leave you captivated.
Key Points
- Explore the enchanting German-style Christmas market in the charming streets of Old Quebec, featuring handcrafted ornaments and local delicacies.
- Warm up with a soothing cup of hot chocolate at the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, surrounded by festive decorations and magnificent architecture.
- Marvel at the exquisite Nativity scene at the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, a serene and enchanting display of carved wood figurines.
- Discover the charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings of Quartier Petit Champlain, with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and Château Frontenac.
- Enjoy a guided walking tour of historic Old Quebec, with a small-group experience to avoid getting lost and personalized attention from a local guide.
Overview of the Tour
Quebec City sparkles with Christmas magic during the winter months, inviting visitors to experience the enchantment of Old Quebec on this guided tour.
The small-group walking experience ensures you won’t get lost exploring the historic neighborhood, while personalized attention and samples of local products at the festive markets keep you warm and engaged throughout the journey.
Strolling through the charming Quartier Petit Champlain, you’ll be captivated by the Nativity scene and twinkling decorations at the Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral.
A steaming hot chocolate at the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac provides the perfect respite before enjoying the lively German-style Christmas market.
This is an ideal way to stay active and embrace the winter wonderland of Old Quebec.
Meeting Point and Pickup
The tour commences at the Centre Infotouriste de Québec, located at 12 Rue Sainte-Anne, where guests gather before embarking on their enchanting journey through Old Quebec.
From this central meeting point, the small group sets off to discover the city’s captivating holiday sights and sounds.
The tour then concludes at the iconic Royal Place, nestled in the heart of Place Royale, where visitors can continue exploring the charming cobblestone streets and historic architecture.
This convenient pickup and drop-off locations ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the Christmas magic of Old Quebec.
Key highlights of the meeting and pickup locations include:
- Centrally located at the Centre Infotouriste de Québec
- Easy access to public transportation
- Concludes at the picturesque Royal Place in Place Royale
German-style Christmas Market
Nestled amidst the charming streets of Old Quebec, the Marché de Noël Allemand, or German-style Christmas market, beckons visitors with its twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the tantalizing aroma of mulled wine and freshly baked treats.
Strolling through the market, you’ll find an array of wooden stalls showcasing handcrafted ornaments, cozy winter apparel, and an assortment of delectable local delicacies.
The lively atmosphere is punctuated by the sounds of holiday music and the laughter of children as they delight in the enchanting displays.
It’s easy to get lost in the magical ambiance, savoring the flavors and soaking in the festive spirit that makes this market a true highlight of the Quebec City Christmas experience.
Hot Chocolate at Fairmont
After exploring the lively German-style Christmas market, the group makes their way to the grand Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, where they warm up with a soothing cup of hot chocolate.
The iconic hotel’s cozy lobby, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, provides a welcoming respite from the crisp winter air. As they sip the rich, velvety beverage, they take in the hotel’s magnificent architecture and historic charm. The hot chocolate’s aroma wafts through the air, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.
The group savors the moment, relishing in the:
- Warmth of the hot chocolate
- Beauty of the Fairmont’s holiday decor
- Festive spirit that fills the air
Nativity Scene and Decorations
Next, the group ventures inside the awe-inspiring Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, where they’re greeted by an exquisite Nativity scene adorned with twinkling lights and intricate decorations that evoke the magic of the season.
The colorful figurines, carved from wood, depict the holy family along with shepherds, animals, and angels, all arranged in a serene and reverent display.
As they explore the cathedral’s interior, the travelers can’t help but marvel at the ornate architecture, the stained glass windows, and the warm glow of the candles flickering throughout the space.
It’s a moment of pure enchantment, a chance to pause and appreciate the true spirit of Christmas in this historic and sacred place.
Discovering Quartier Petit Champlain
Visitors find themselves enchanted as they meander through the charming Quartier Petit Champlain, the cradle of French culture in North America. Quaint cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings adorned in twinkling lights and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere, transporting them to a bygone era.
Exploring this picturesque neighborhood, they discover:
- Cozy cafes and artisanal shops brimming with unique local crafts and delicacies.
- The iconic Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, a stunning 17th-century landmark that stands as a testament to the area’s rich history.
- Stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the majestic Château Frontenac, creating a postcard-perfect winter scene.
This enchanting district truly embodies the festive spirit of Old Quebec during the Christmas season.
What’s Included in the Tour
The tour consistently includes a knowledgeable local guide who leads visitors through the enchanting streets of Old Quebec. Plus, a small hot chocolate warms guests as they explore the festive sights. Throughout the experience, visitors are treated to samples of local products at the charming Christmas markets, providing a taste of the region’s culinary delights.
| What’s Included | Description |
|---|---|
| Local Guide | Knowledgeable and experienced in navigating the historic district |
| Hot Chocolate | A small, warm beverage to enjoy as you wander the winter wonderland |
| Local Samples | Tasty treats and products from the Christmas markets and shops |
| Small Group | Personalized attention in an intimate setting |
| Walking Tour | An active exploration of Old Quebec’s captivating streets |
This immersive tour ensures visitors experience the full magic of Old Quebec during the holiday season.
Additional Tour Information
Along With the included highlights, travelers can expect a seamless and well-organized experience on this Christmas tour of Old Quebec. This tour is designed with convenience in mind, as it’s easily accessible by public transportation and accommodates children and service animals.
Travelers should dress appropriately for the winter weather, as the tour operates in all conditions. With a moderate physical fitness level required, this tour ensures everyone can comfortably explore the enchanting sights of Old Quebec.
The small-group size provides personalized attention, allowing you to fully learn about the holiday magic. Key features of this tour include:
- Convenient meeting and end points in central locations.
- Stroller accessibility for families.
- Suitability for travelers of varying fitness levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for This Tour?
There’s no strict dress code, but dressing warmly and comfortably is a must. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so visitors should wear layers and appropriate footwear to stay cozy and enjoy the experience fully.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?
Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, a small hot chocolate is included, allowing visitors to warm up and sample a local treat during the chilly winter stroll through historic Old Quebec.
Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?
The tour guide is fluent in multiple languages, allowing them to provide personalized attention and engage with all participants. This multilingual capability ensures everyone can fully enjoy the winter wonderland of Old Quebec.
Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?
Guests are allowed to take photos and videos throughout the tour, capturing the enchanting sights and festive atmosphere of Old Quebec. However, they should be mindful not to disrupt the guide or fellow participants.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Stops?
Guests can customize their tour experience by extending the duration or adding extra stops, though this may require an additional fee. The operator is generally flexible to accommodate personalized requests within reason for a more tailored tour.
Recap
Discover the enchanting winter wonderland of Old Quebec, where the spirit of Christmas comes alive. Stroll through the historic streets, indulge in warm hot chocolate, and marvel at the stunning Nativity scene.
Enjoy the festive cheer of the German-style Christmas market and the charming cobblestone alleys of Quartier Petit Champlain, creating unforgettable memories in this magical destination.
