Quartier Petit Champlain Tours and Activities

Quartier Petit Champlain featuring a small town or village, outdoor eating and café scenes
Quartier Petit Champlain
Quartier Petit Champlain
Quartier Petit Champlain
Quartier Petit Champlain


The oldest commercial district in North America has a distinct European ambience and a interesting mix of boutiques and bistros.

One of the most famous neighborhoods in Québec is a picturesque collection of narrow cobblestone streets with bistros, shops and art galleries housed in old stone buildings. Shopping is one of the principal reasons why people come to Petit-Champlain. Browse the handicraft boutiques that are noted for their leather, jewelry, clothing and decorative arts.

Climb the Escalier Casse-Cou, nicknamed the “Breakneck Steps” because of its steepness. The 59 steps are wedged between two sides of a street and lead up to Côte de la Montagne. The view from the top is well worth the climb, also at night when the area becomes a sea of lights.

Spend a few minutes exploring the detail of the trompe l’oeil mural on the wall of 102 Rue du Petit-Champlain. This massive outdoor work of art illustrates important events in the district’s history, such as bombardments and landslides. Pay attention to the windows with depictions of prominent figures from Québec’s history, including its founder Samuel de Champlain. The optical illusion created by the painting makes you feel like you can step straight into the scene.

Also drop in on number 16, a restored building which was once the home of the explorer Louis Jolliet who mapped the Mississippi River. The house contains the lower terminal of the cable railway that connects the Lower Town to the Upper Town.

Petit-Champlain is tucked beneath the cliffs that support Château Frontenac. A fun way to reach the area is via the staircase or cable railway from Dufferin Terrace. The neighborhood is a pedestrianized zone and is best explored on foot. The nearest major public transport hub is Gare du Palais and city buses traverse the district. Metered parking is available in nearby streets.

You can explore the neighborhood at any time, but bear in mind that the restaurants and stores have varying opening hours. To avoid the crowds, go earlier in the day or after dinner.

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Best Lodging Options Near Quartier Petit Champlain

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

4.5 out of 5
1 rue des Carrieres, Québec City, QC
Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Hôtel Le Concorde Québec

Hôtel Le Concorde Québec

3 out of 5
1225 Cours du General de Montcalm, Québec City, QC
Hôtel Le Concorde Québec
 Hôtel Palace Royal Centre-Ville par JARO

Hôtel Palace Royal Centre-Ville par JARO

4 out of 5
775 Honoré-Mercier Ave, Québec City, QC
Hôtel Palace Royal Centre-Ville par JARO
Hotel Acadia

Hotel Acadia

3 out of 5
43 Rue Sainte-ursule, Québec City, QC
Hotel Acadia
Hôtel Manoir Vieux Québec

Hôtel Manoir Vieux Québec

3.5 out of 5
6 Rue de la Porte, Québec City, QC
Hôtel Manoir Vieux Québec
Hotel Chateau Laurier Quebec

Hotel Chateau Laurier Quebec

4 out of 5
1220, Place George-V Ouest, Québec City, QC
Hotel Chateau Laurier Quebec
Hotel Manoir Victoria

Hotel Manoir Victoria

4 out of 5
44, Cote du Palais, Québec City, QC
Hotel Manoir Victoria
Auberge Saint-Antoine

Auberge Saint-Antoine

4.5 out of 5
8, rue Saint-Antoine, Québec City, QC
Auberge Saint-Antoine
Hôtel Sainte-Anne

Hôtel Sainte-Anne

3 out of 5
32, rue Sainte-Anne, Québec City, QC
Hôtel Sainte-Anne
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Things to do near Quartier Petit Champlain

Explore the enchanting Quartier Petit Champlain in Québec City, where you can indulge in charming cafés, browse art galleries, and embark on captivating photo tours. Don't miss the vibrant festivals and live music that fill the area, and for a thrill, consider taking a ghost tour to uncover the city's intriguing history. Whether you're looking for a quick visit or a deeper dive into local culture, there's something for everyone in this picturesque district.

Shopping

In Quartier Petit Champlain, enjoy shopping at La Maison Simons for unique finds just 322m away. Stroll along Saint-Jean Street, 1.1km away, for a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere. For a broader selection, head to Grande Allée, located 1.6km away, featuring diverse shops and eateries.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at Strøm Spa Nordique, where you can indulge in rejuvenating body treatments amid serene surroundings, just 1.4km from Quartier Petit Champlain. For a lively atmosphere, enjoy a concert at Palais Montcalm, located 805m away, offering vibrant musical experiences.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of skiing at Le Relais, located 16.1km from Quartier Petit Champlain, offering exhilarating slopes and a vibrant sports atmosphere. For outdoor enthusiasts, Les Mosaicultures du Peuple Wendat, 9.7km away, showcases stunning outdoor art. Enjoy water sports at Club Nautique Lac St-Charles, also 16.1km from the area.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Quartier Petit Champlain by catching a show at the Grand Theatre of Quebec, just 1.6km away, or enjoy family-friendly fun at the Observatoire de la Capitale, 1.3km away. For a romantic evening, unwind at Le Trou du Diable, a charming pub 20.9km away.

Find the best attractions near Quartier Petit Champlain

Quartier Petit Champlain in Québec City offers a rich blend of history and culture, featuring attractions like museums, historic buildings, and civic government structures. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant city atmosphere while enjoying outdoor experiences. This charming area is perfect for those looking to explore the heart of Québec City and discover the unique character of Petit Champlain. Don't miss the chance to stroll through its picturesque streets and enjoy local delights.

  • Quebec City Town Hall: A historic Civic Government Building, Quebec City Town Hall is a stunning example of architectural heritage. Its grand façade and rich history offer a glimpse into the city’s past, while the surrounding area buzzes with cultural vibes. Located 483m from Quartier Petit Champlain, it's a must-see for those interested in local governance and history.
  • Place Royale: This picturesque piazza is located right at the heart of Old Quebec, mere steps from Quartier Petit Champlain. Place Royale is surrounded by beautiful architecture and quaint shops, exuding a charming atmosphere filled with culture and city vibes, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a coffee break.
  • Old Quebec Funicular: Connecting the upper and lower parts of Old Quebec, this historic building offers a unique and scenic ride. Located just 161m away, the funicular provides breathtaking views of the city and river, making it an exciting way to experience Quebec City’s charming landscape.

Best time to go to Quartier Petit Champlain

Visitor numbers around Quartier Petit Champlain is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Quartier Petit Champlain can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Quartier Petit Champlain falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Quartier Petit Champlain falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January12.2°F (-11.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February14.4°F (-9.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March23.7°F (-4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
April36.7°F (2.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
May52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June60.6°F (15.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July66.4°F (19.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November32.5°F (0.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
December20.5°F (-6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Quartier Petit Champlain

Quartier Petit Champlain is a budget-friendly destination with no entry fee and nearby attractions like Quebec City Town Hall and the Plains of Abraham that are also free. To save on accommodation, consider visiting in January or March to April, as these months typically offer lower prices compared to the summer peak. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to book, while Saturdays are the priciest. Utilize Expedia to find eco-friendly hotels and package deals that combine your stay with flights and activities for the best savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Quartier Petit Champlain are January and March to April, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Quartier Petit Champlain is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Quartier Petit Champlain is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Quartier Petit Champlain hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.