Things to do in Quebec City

Cycle back in time around île d'orléans

île d'orléans is a tiny island wedged in the middle of the mighty Saint Lawrence River. There is a 70km (43 miles) loop covering the entire island that passes 17th century stone churches and inns. Along the way there are orchards, chocolatiers and cafes to keep your energy up. Cyclo Services (tel: +1 418 692 4052; www.cycloservices.net) can supply the wheels.

Explore the craft beer scene

Brewing lager, stout and everything in between, microbreweries are mushrooming across Quebec City and a number of them congregate in the Saint-Roche neighbourhood. Sign up for a tour with Brou-tours (tel: +1 418 554 1223; https://www.broue-tours.ca/en/) to sample some of the best craft beers in the city.

Meet Batisse the Goat

Attend the Changing of the Guard ceremony at La Citadelle de Quebec (tel: +1 418 694 2815; http://www.lacitadelle.qc.ca/en/) and meet the regiment's famous mascot Batisse the Goat prancing around the parade grounds. The ceremony takes place daily at 10am between June and the first Monday of September.

Ride an old-school toboggan

Set your pulse racing by taking to a wooden toboggan slide while reaching a speed of 70km per hour - and enjoying it right in the heart of the city shows the quirky side of Quebec City. Sat right by the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Au 1884 (tel: +1 418 528 1884; http://www.au1884.ca/en/) offers toboggan slide from mid-December to mid-March, weather permitting.

Try urban ice fishing

Put on a parka and head to Village Nordik’s (tel: +1 418 692 0002; https://www.villagenordik.com) inflatable igloo at the Port of Quebec for a fun-filled day of ice fishing. Beginners and experienced anglers are welcome to try their luck fishing for trout, walleye and perch. If you’re keen to eat your freshly-caught fish, the Old Port Market can prepare them for a small fee.

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Featured Hotels

Le Clos Saint-Louis

The lavish attention to detail in these joined mid-19th-century townhouses makes staying here a treat. Gorgeous antiques feature in the elegant parlour and dining room (where a free continental breakfast is served in low season), and they make an appearance in the 18 bedrooms as well, where area rugs soften the hardwood floors, and televisions are hidden away in armoires to preserve the romantic Victorian atmosphere. This hotel is a gem! But don't just take our word for it: thousands of travellers on the Tripadvisor website once voted it Best Hidden Gem in Canada.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

The grandest of Quebec City's hotels is the city's chief landmark, a red-brick, mock-medieval tower topped by a steep copper roof and perched on the edge of the cliff overlooking the St Lawrence. Its 611 rooms have benefited from a multimillion dollar refurbishment project; each stately and grand in appearance if occasionally a bit small, but that's made up for by the prime location, with its gastronomic Le Champlain restaurant and Le Café de la Terrasse overlooking the scenic Dufferin Terrace promenade.

Le Manoir des Ramparts

This hotel, located in the heart of Old Québec, might not win any prizes for design, but it offers very reasonable accommodation at a very decent price, and some rooms have an exceptional view of the St Lawrence River and Laurentian Mountains. Most of the 34 bedrooms have a private bathroom, television and telephone, but eight budget rooms have shared shower and toilet facilities. Continental breakfast is included in the price.

Hotel Le Cavalier du Moulin

This 19th century property in Old Québec is blessed with historic character and charm. Located just a stone's throw from many of the city's most iconic sights, some of the rooms come preserved with their original stone walls and fireplaces, and all are equipped with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

Hôtel Le Germain-Dominion

The 60 loft-like rooms in this warmly minimalist boutique hotel are full of nice touches like blown-glass basins lit from beneath, chunky wooden blinds (revealing terrific views over the St Lawrence River from the upper floors) and home comforts like down duvets and bathrobes. Breakfast (included in the price) is served at large communal tables, a reception area and two meeting rooms cater to business needs and there's a complimentary cappuccino/espresso bar. The staff provide discreet, impeccable service.

Hôtel Manoir Victoria

This comfortable 4-star hotel, just up the hill from the train station, is tucked discreetly behind the main shopping street in the Old Town and is handy for exploring the sights. Low-key lighting and thick carpets give a hushed feel and the 156 well-appointed rooms and suites, done up in earth tones, are a good size. For relaxing there is a pool, sauna, fitness room and spa treatments.

Introducing Quebec City

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