Québec might just be the perfect European getaway you didn’t know North America offered. As Canada aims to become a top global tourist destination, the United States currently contributes 69.95% of its overnight visitors. One reason? With its European charm and unique attractions, Québec presents an enticing alternative to transatlantic travel.
“Our goal is to… propel Canada into the top seven global tourism destinations by 2030,” says Meaghan Ferrigno, Chief Financial Officer of Destination Canada.
Each Canadian province boasts its own unique attractions, but Québec stands out with its European ambiance, offering luxury and culture without the need to cross the Atlantic.
“Québec is very much like Europe in many ways, especially the Old Town,” says experienced traveler Tiffany McCauley of SlappyToad.com. “It was much like visiting Europe, but on a far more affordable budget.”
Situated north of the U.S. states of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, Québec is more than double the size of Texas. However, approximately 65% of its residents live within 100 miles of the U.S. border, especially concentrated near Montreal and Québec City.
This proximity is part of the allure the European-influenced province has for Americans living just south of the Canadian border.
Skip the Overseas Flight: Find a Touch of France in Québec
Québec City, one of the earliest European-established cities in North America, showcases its historical charm. Founded by French explorer Samuel de Champlain, Old Québec is known for its quaint European-inspired architecture and charming cobblestone streets. As the only Canadian province where French is the official language, 84.1% of Québec’s population speaks French. An additional 46.4% are also proficient in English.
“Being multilingual, I often pine to return to Québec to hear people speak French fluently. Going to Québec City is like visiting an old European City without the long flights,” says Margarita Ibbott, Travel and Arts Writer, DownshiftingPRO. “I can never get enough of La Belle Province.”
While France has led global tourism for the past 30 years, Destination Canada hopes to position Québec as a delightful alternative, swapping the Eiffel Tower for the charm of Old Québec and macarons for maple treats.
How to Experience the Best of Québec: Top Activities and Attractions
Québec has a packed schedule of events and activities, so tourists have plenty to choose from to fill their itineraries. No matter the season, there’s always something exciting happening.
“Coined as a trip to France without actually having to fly to Europe, Americans choose Québec because it offers truly one-of-a-kind experiences, highlighted by amazing culinary options, rich history, world-renowned festivals, and unlimited adventure for travelers to enjoy,” says Geneviève Cantin, Chief Executive Officer of the Alliance de l’industrie touristique du Québec.
“The colourful accents, charm, striking architecture and warm welcome that guests seek in a European vacation is still an integral part of Quebecers’ distinct French culture, in addition to their ‘joie de vivre’ — as Québec was once known as the New France.”
Here’s a taste of what’s in store for those visiting the province.
Historical Immersion: Discovering Québec’s Past
Much like the cobblestone streets of Paris, centuries-old buildings brimming with history and charm line Québec City’s narrow alleys. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Old Québec is the best-preserved fortified town north of Mexico, showcasing its colonial architecture for more than four centuries.
Tourists venturing through Old Québec by foot can wander the streets at their leisure, exploring boutique shops and discovering tasty treats. For a deeper dive into its storied history, consider booking a walking tour or guided bike tour to learn more about the city’s fascinating past.
For a different perspective of Québec City, take the funicular from the historic Lower Town to Upper Town. This scenic ride navigates the city’s steep hills and offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
The Fairmont Château Frontenac towers over the city and can be seen for miles, embodying the grand architectural style of Europe’s chateaux. This iconic landmark is a treat for history and architecture enthusiasts. Anyone can step inside and marvel at its grandeur, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Québec City.
“The cobblestone streets of Québec City, leading to the majestic Château Frontenac will take your breath away,” says Cantin.
Rejuvenate and Relax in Québec’s Spas and Retreats
Québec offers more than 125 spas, from Nordic retreats featuring cold plunges in natural streams to luxurious sanctuaries in five-star hotels.
Just an hour north of Québec City, Le Germain Charlevoix Hotel & Spa gives guests a top-notch Nordic spa experience. The spa, inspired by European Nordic spas, has thermal baths, outdoor hot tubs, and a variety of treatments designed to help guests relax and unwind. The peaceful environment and beautiful natural surroundings make it the perfect place to recharge.
For a truly unique experience, consider staying in the 375-year-old Monastère des Augustines. Guests of the Monastère can rest and rejuvenate while focusing on wellness, including meditation and yoga classes in the historic cellar.
Discover Québec’s Culinary Delights
Québec’s food scene is delightfully reminiscent of France’s. While France is famed for pastries like croissants and éclairs, Québec boasts specialties such as poutine — a wildly popular dish of fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy — and mouthwatering maple syrup treats, a sweet nod to the province’s natural resources.
Any meal at La Buchette in Old Town is a chance to indulge in home-style cooking and local favorites. Hungry tourists can find more restaurants on the city’s tourism website.
Cheese lovers will enjoy a tasty tour of Famille Migneron de Charlevoix. Guests can tour their fromagerie, taste artisanal cheeses, and discover local products crafted with a passion for quality and tradition. It’s an ideal spot for foodies and those looking to savor authentic Québecois flavors.
Year-Round Festivities With a European Flair
Québec famously hosts more than a few not-to-be-missed celebrations throughout the year. For tourists wanting more to add to their itinerary, nearly any time of year has a lively festival or event happening in the region.
The Québec Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec) ranks among the world’s largest winter celebrations. Each year, thousands of visitors converge on Québec City to enjoy various activities for all ages, including ice sculptures, night parades, concerts, ice canoe races, and Bonhomme’s famous Ice Palace.
There’s no need to fly to Germany to experience a traditional Christmas market, as more than 200,000 people visit Québec’s German Christmas Market annually. The event offers Americans a taste of Europe closer to home.
Visitors spending summer in Québec can experience a wide selection of world-class events, from the Québec City Celtic Festival to Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France (New France Festival), along with beer festivals, fireworks shows, concerts, and international sporting events, among others.
Embrace the European Charm of Québec
Travelers wanting a touch of Europe without leaving the continent will find Québec a destination that won’t disappoint. Whether interested in luxury, culture, or outdoor adventure, Québec provides an unforgettable experience that rivals the best of Europe.
