Skip to main content

7 ways to make the most of the winter wonderland in Québec City

7 ways to make the most of the winter wonderland in Québec City

As soon as the first snowflakes fall, Qu?bec City gets into its winter groove. From late November to late March, the region is one giant playground while Old Qu?becExternal Link Title dazzles with its enchanting blanket of snow. So bundle upExternal Link Title, because there's no shortage of warm-hearted fun. Grab your hat and mittens and experience the best of winter : it's time to tackle winter like a local!

Here are 7 winter experiences you won't want to miss:

 

 

Marvel at the splendour of the only ice hotel in North America

room with a fireplace in the ice hotel in quebec
Credit: Hôtel de Glace

Qu?bec's one-of-a-kind H?tel de GlaceExternal Link Title is the only place in North America where you can sip an aperitif in a bar at -5?C, enjoy a cozy night's sleep in a room made entirely of ice, and tie the knot in a frost-covered chapel. Enter a magical, mesmerizing world of ice and snow!

 

 

Stroll through the winter wonderland of Old Qu?bec

two people walking the snowy cobblestone streets of old quebec
Credit: Francis Gagnon

From early December to mid-March, Old Qu?bec is like a fairyland Christmas villageExternal Link Title of lights, decorations, snow, and enchanting European architecture. Delightful! The smells of cinnamon, gingerbread, and sausages from the German Christmas MarketExternal Link Title waft through the streets of the historic district while Grande All?e is abuzz in anticipation of the New Year's outdoor festivitiesExternal Link Title.

 

 

Celebrate winter throughout the city at the Qu?bec Winter Carnival

snowman at Quebec's winter festival
Credit: Audet Photo

This big winter celebrationExternal Link Title has been warming hearts since 1955 with a host of traditions that celebrate the city's French Canadian roots. It's the best time to celebrate with the locals, who will be eager for you to try some caribou liquor, blow the Carnival trumpet, and don an arrow sash. 

 

 

Take advantage of all the snow

people cross country skiing in Quebec
Credit: Francis Gagnon

With over 300 cm of snow most years, Quebecers have long since learned to love this gift from nature. When in Qu?bec City, do as the Quebecers do! Try cross-country skiingExternal Link Title in the heart of town or in the most beautiful sceneries. Discover the magnificent skating rinksExternal Link Title all over the city. SnowshoeExternal Link Title through snow-capped forests less than 30 minutes from downtown. Go dogsleddingExternal Link Title through stunning winter scenery. After an adventurous snowmobile rideExternal Link Title, bond with new friends at the chalet over a hearty meal. There's nothing like warm times after a fun day outside!

 

 

Zoom down snow tube runs

people snowtubing in Quebec
Credit: Francis Gagnon

Get in touch with your inner child--give snowtubingExternal Link Title a whirl! It's a Qu?bec winter tradition that's fun for the whole family. Your ultimate adrenaline rush awaits at Village Vacances ValcartierExternal Link Title, North America's largest winter playground. with its thrill-a-second slides. Choose a one-person inner tube, a giant inner tube, or an inflatable raft. Outsized fun in the great outdoors! And right beside the Ch?teau Frontenac, try Glissades de la TerrasseExternal Link Title, a toboggan run like you've never experienced. The clifftop views will blow your mind!

 

 

Hit the slopes at your pick of four ski areas

a person skiing down a hill in Quebec
Credit: Olivier Croteau

Just a snowball's throw from the city await spectacular ski runsExternal Link Title, some with jaw-dropping views of the St. Lawrence River. Why not give night skiing a go? Carving down the illuminated slopes is a unique experience--one that wouldn't be complete without getting into Qu?bec City's festive apr?s-ski scene and making new friends.

 

 

Snuggle into the cozy side of winter

people inside with their feet against the fireplace
Credit: Au chalet en bois rond

Winter is also a time for getting snug and cozy. Have a seat by the fireplace at the chaletExternal Link Title with a nice glass of wine. Share a meal with friends or spend the day in your wool socks playing your favourite board game. Cap off your stay with a visit to a Nordic spaExternal Link Title. There's nothing like alternating between hot and cold to relax you after a full day!