21 Fun Things to Do in Quebec City in the Winter

Quebec City is a fantastic destination any time of the year, with its narrow, European-style streets, stunning architecture, and cozy cafés. But in the winter, the city transforms into something even more special—with historic buildings dusted in snow, outdoor skating rinks, and the thrill of tobogganing down a century-old slide.

We’ve been lucky to visit Quebec City multiple times, in summer, fall, and winter. While December is magical with the Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and festive atmosphere, there’s so much more to experience during Quebec’s true winter season—from late December through mid-March.

This post isn’t just about the holiday events—it’s about the best winter activities you can enjoy all season long. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cozy indoor escapes, or classic Quebecois winter treats, here’s a list of 21 amazing things to do in Quebec City this winter.

Best Winter Activities in Quebec City

Quebec City is one of the best places in Canada to experience true winter fun. With plenty of snowy outdoor adventures, unique seasonal events, and cozy spots to warm up, it’s the perfect destination for a winter getaway.

1. Ride the Dufferin Terrace Slide

One of the most iconic winter activities in Quebec City, the Dufferin Slide has been around since 1884—and it’s just as fun today as it was back then. Located on Dufferin Terrace next to Château Frontenac, this historic toboggan run lets you race down the icy track at speeds of up to 70 km/h.

We missed the chance to try it when we visited Quebec City for the Christmas Market, so we made sure to go when we returned a few winters later. It ended up being one of the highlights for my kids. They loved the thrill of flying down the track, and honestly, so did I!

You can rent toboggans on-site, and at just $4 per person (or $12 for a group of four), it’s one of the most affordable winter activities in the city.

The slide typically runs from mid-December to mid-March, weather permitting. If you’re visiting on a weekend, go early in the day to avoid long lines.

2. Tour the Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel)

The Hôtel de Glace is one of the most unique winter attractions in Quebec and the only ice hotel in North America. Every year, it’s completely rebuilt with elaborately carved ice sculptures, arched snow ceilings, and shimmering frozen artwork.

Walking through the grand ice hallways and exploring the themed rooms feels surreal. Some rooms have intricate ice carvings, while others feature massive snow sculptures and ambient lighting that makes the ice glow in different colours. The ice bar is a fun stop where you can sip a cocktail from a glass made of ice. If you’re planning a wedding or vow renewal, there’s even a chapel made entirely of ice and snow.

And if touring the ice hotel isn’t enough, you can even spend the night in a room, which – you guessed it – is made entirely of ice. While it definitely sounds like a ‘cool’ experience, pun intended, I prefer a warm bed, but hey, to each their own! 

3. Visit Bonhomme’s Ice Palace

Not to be confused with the Ice Hotel above is the Ice Palace in downtown Quebec City. This incredible castle is made entirely of ice and snow. It’s built fresh every year for the Quebec Winter Carnival, and each time, the design is slightly different.

Inside, you’ll find intricate ice sculptures, themed rooms, and interactive displays, and if you’re lucky, you might even run into Bonhomme himself—the festival’s famous snowman mascot. The palace is especially magical at night when it’s lit up in different colours. It’s located in front of the Parliament Building near the Plains of Abraham, and is about a 15 minute walk from Château Frontenac.

Even though the palace is built for Carnival, it usually stays up until mid-March, weather permitting. We visited mid March, and just missed it, so best to go in Februrary if you want to see it!

4. Go Skating Outdoors

Outdoor skating is about as classic a Canadian winter activity as it gets, and Quebec City has a few great places to lace up your skates. The most popular spot is at Place d’Youville, right in the heart of Old Quebec. Skating here feels like something out of a winter postcard, with the city’s historic walls as a backdrop. And at night, it’s even more festive, when the rink is all lit up. We skated here every night we were in Quebec.

Another great spot to go skating is at the Plains of Abraham, where a scenic skating path winds through the snowy park. This spot is great if you want a quieter, more relaxed skating experience away from the busier streets of Old Quebec. There’s also a heated chalet with a snack bar, so you can take a break, warm up and grab a hot drink before heading back out on the ice. 

Another great option just outside of downtown is at Domaine Maizerets, a beautiful park with a large outdoor skating rink. It’s less crowded than the rinks in Old Quebec, and you’ll find more locals here than tourists, making it a great choice if you’re looking for more space to skate. 

All of these rinks are free to skate at, and if you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent skates and helmets for a small fee.  

5. See Château Frontenac

No visit to Quebec City is complete without seeing Château Frontenac, Quebec City’s most famous landmark. Sitting high above Old Quebec, this iconic castle-like hotel is said to be the most photographed hotel in the world—and it’s easy to see why. Whether dusted with fresh snow or glowing in the evening lights, it’s one of the most recognizable landmarks in Canada.

Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth stepping inside to admire the grand architecture and get a sense of its history. The hotel has hosted royalty, world leaders, and celebrities over the years, and walking through its halls feels like stepping back in time. If you want to learn more about the Château, this one hour guided tour is kid-friendly, and lets you learn more about the history of this iconic building. 

For the best views of Château Frontenac itself, head to Dufferin Terrace, where you can take in the stunning architecture from the wooden boardwalk overlooking the city. Another great vantage point is from the Quebec-Lévis Ferry, which offers a panoramic view of the Château rising above Old Quebec. If you’re walking through Rue du Petit-Champlain, don’t forget to look up—the view of the Château from the narrow, snow-covered streets is one of the most classic winter sights in Quebec City (see the photo below).

For those looking for a luxurious stay, booking a night at Château Frontenac is a bucket-list-worthy experience.  Staying inside this historic landmark means you’ll wake up to stunning views of Old Quebec and be right in the heart of the city’s winter magic. I can’t personally speak to that experience, as it’s still on my bucket list, but I imagine it’s pretty incredible! 

Outdoor Winter Activities in Quebec City

There’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to enjoy in Quebec City. Whether you want to try classic Canadian activities like snowshoeing and tubing or just take in the beauty of Old Quebec under a fresh layer of snow, there’s plenty of options to enjoy the winter outdoors. 

6. Explore Old Quebec in the Snow

I love wandering through Old Quebec in the summer, but there’s something extra special about exploring it in the winter. The narrow, winding streets and historic buildings make you feel like you’ve stepped into a European village, and in the snow, it’s even more magical.

One of the most beautiful streets to explore is Rue du Petit-Champlain, the postcard-perfect street that’s often called the prettiest in North America. In winter, a dusting of snow on the holiday decorations and window boxes makes it feel like a scene from a classic Christmas movie. Even when we visited in March—long after the festive season — it still had that picture-perfect winter look.

Other great spots to explore include Place Royale, with its historic stone buildings, and Dufferin Terrace, where you can take in sweeping views of the frozen St. Lawrence River. If you need a break from the cold, step inside one of the many boulangeries or chocolate shops for a sweet treat before continuing to explore the Old Town. 

7. Ride the Funicular Between Upper & Lower Town

Quebec City is built on a hill, which means getting from Lower Town (Petit-Champlain) to Upper Town (near Château Frontenac) usually involves climbing a lot of stairs. But in winter, when the steps can be icy and slippery, the funicular is a much easier (and more fun) way to get between the two areas.

The Quebec City Funicular has been in operation since 1879 and offers a quick but scenic ride up the steep hillside. The glass-enclosed cabin gives you great views of the St. Lawrence River as you travel between Rue du Petit-Champlain and Dufferin Terrace. It’s especially useful if you’re exploring Lower Town and don’t feel like trekking back up in the snow.

The ride takes less than a minute, and while it’s not free, it’s a small price to pay to save your legs—especially with kids! If you’d rather walk, there are staircases, but in the middle of winter, the funicular is definitely the easier (and warmer) option.

8. Take the Quebec-Lévis Ferry

One of the best ways to get a great view of Quebec City in winter is from the water, and the Quebec-Lévis Ferry is just the way to do that. Running year-round, it’s a quick and scenic way to cross the historic St. Lawrence River. The ride takes just 12 minutes, but in that short time, you’ll get fantastic views of Château Frontenac, the Old Port, and the snow-covered rooftops of the city. In the winter, seeing the ferry move past chunks of ice just adds to the experience.

Once you arrive in Lévis, you can hop off and explore, or just head up to the terrace near the ferry terminal for another incredible view before catching the return trip back to Quebec City. The ferry runs hourly throughout the day, leaving Quebec City on the half hour and departing from Lévis on the hour, so it’s easy to time a quick round trip. 

The views are great anytime of day, but they’re especially stunning at night when Quebec City is lit up against the night sky.

9. Visit Montomorency Falls 

At 83 metres high, Montmorency Falls are even taller than Niagara Falls. They’re amazing to see anytime of year, but are especially stunning to see in the winter when frozen. 

I love waterfalls and tend to add them to our itinerary whenever we can, whether it’s summer or winter. And as it’s only a short drive from Quebec City, it’s easy to visit Montmorency Falls, whether you’ve got your own car or not.

If you’re driving, it’s good to know that the main (paid) parking lots are closed in the winter, but there are some parking options available. We parked at Manoir Montmorency for free, which is located at the top of the falls and it worked out really well. 

From there, it was an easy walk to the suspension bridge which runs across the falls. My kids loved walking across and looking down at the ice below, but it’s also really stunning to see from the bottom. You can drive to the bottom and view it from there, but the stairs that you can take from the top down are closed in the winter – for safety.

A local guide told us that the mound of ice that freezes at the bottom is known as “Pain de Sucre” (Sugar Loaf), and seeing it in person makes you realize how powerful the falls really are!

10. Try Snow Tubing at Village Vacances Valcartier

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend a winter day just outside Quebec City, head to Village Vacances Valcartier. Located about 30 minutes from downtown, this huge outdoor snow park has over 35 tubing runs, ranging from gentle slopes for younger kids to extreme slides for thrill-seekers.

I’ll be honest—we had visited Quebec City a few times before a friend at work mentioned that Valcartier was a must-do. She told me it would make the entire trip worthwhile, and she wasn’t wrong. It’s not the cheapest activity, but it’s well worth a full day of fun. Some of the runs are steep and fast, like the Everest slide, while others let you link tubes together for a family-friendly ride.

Beyond tubing, Valcartier is also home to the Ice Hotel, which you can visit on a tour or even book a stay if you’re feeling adventurous. If you need a break from the cold, Bora Parc, the resort’s indoor water park, is a great way to warm up. You can even stay overnight at Valcartier’s hotel and turn it into a full getaway.

Expect it to be busy on weekends and holidays, so if you’re visiting during peak times, arrive early or consider a weekday visit for fewer crowds.

11. Go Skiing or Snowboarding

Just a short drive from downtown Quebec City, you’ll find some of the best ski resorts in Eastern Canada. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly slopes, challenging terrain, or stunning views, there are options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. 

The closest option is Stoneham Mountain Resort, just 30 minutes from the city. It’s a popular option for families, with a mix of beginner and intermediate runs, a snow park, and even night skiing. If you’re looking for a bigger mountain with incredible scenery, Mont-Sainte-Anne is a great choice. Located about 45 minutes away, it offers a variety of terrain, from easy green runs to more advanced trails. It’s also known for its beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River.

For more experienced skiers looking for steeper terrain and longer runs, Le Massif de Charlevoix is about an hour from Quebec City and offers the highest vertical drop east of the Rockies. The views from the top, with the St. Lawrence River stretching out below, make it one of the most scenic ski resorts in the region.

Most resorts offer ski and snowboard rentals, as well as lessons if you’re new to the sport. Whether you’re planning for a quick afternoon on the slopes or a full ski getaway, there are plenty of options just outside the city.

12. Try Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are great ways to get outside and enjoy Quebec City’s winter landscapes, whether you want a quick outing in the city or a full day on the trails. If you don’t have your own gear, Plains of Abraham is one of the easiest places to try it. Right in the heart of Quebec City, this historic park is a great place to explore on snowshoes, with well-maintained trails and on-site rentals for both snowshoes and cross-country skis.

For a more immersive experience, Jacques-Cartier National Park—about 30 minutes from Quebec City—offers a stunning winter setting with snow-covered forests, frozen rivers, and plenty of space to explore. Rentals are available, and the park has a mix of easy and more challenging trails, making it a great option whether you’re a beginner or looking for a real workout. There’s also guided tours available if you’re hesitant to go on your own. 

13. Go Ice Fishing at Village Nordik

Ice fishing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a trip to Quebec City, but Village Nordik in the Old Port makes it an easy and fun way to try this classic Canadian winter activity.

You can fish out on the open ice or, if you’d rather stay a bit warmer, book a spot inside an inflatable igloo for some wind protection. If you’re lucky enough to catch something, you can even have it cooked for you on-site for a small fee.

Rates vary depending on whether you choose an igloo or outdoor fishing, but no matter what, dress warm! Even with the igloos, you’ll be outside for a while, and Quebec winters can be cold.

We’ve actually missed it both times we visited in the winter since it usually closes by mid-March—understandably, before the ice melts! If it’s on your list, plan for January or February to be safe.

Indoor & Cozy Winter Activities

As much as Quebec City is known for embracing winter outdoors, sometimes you just need a break from the cold. Whether you’re warming up with hot chocolate, exploring museums, or checking out the indoor exhibits at the aquarium, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy on a chilly day.

14. Warm Up at the Aquarium du Québec

If you need a break from the cold but still want a fun, family-friendly activity, the Aquarium du Québec is a great place to visit. This large, year-round aquarium features over 10,000 marine animals, including seals, jellyfish, and even polar bears.

The outdoor section, where you can see polar bears and arctic foxes, is especially fun in the winter since these animals are in their element. We found that the best time to visit was in the afternoon when the seals were most active. There’s also a hands-on touch tank inside, making it a great spot for younger kids to explore.

While part of the aquarium is outdoors, most of it is inside, so it’s a good option for a colder day. Just bundle up if you plan to see the outdoor exhibits!

15. Explore Musée de la Civilisation

If you’re looking for an indoor activity that’s both educational and fun, the Musée de la Civilisation is one of the best museums in Quebec City, and it’s great for kids too. Located in the Lower Town, the museum is not just another history museum, but has interesting and unexpected exhibits to explore. 

The exhibits change regularly, but there are usually a mix of permanent and rotating displays covering topics like Quebec’s history and Indigenous cultures – I had no idea there were so many designs of snow shoes! But there’s also more unusual exhibits, like one on the gladiators, another on wrestling, and even one on rap music. For younger kids, there’s a miniature house designed just for them, where they can climb, explore and play.

16. See a Hockey Game in Quebec City

Hockey is a huge part of Canadian culture, and while Quebec City no longer has an NHL team, you can still catch a fast-paced, exciting game by watching the Quebec Remparts, the local junior team.

Junior hockey might not have the big-name NHL players, but the games can be just as intense. Many future NHL stars get their start in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), so you never know—you might be watching the next big star in action.

Tickets are usually much cheaper than NHL games, making this an affordable and family-friendly activity. If you have a few days in Quebec City in the winter and want to experience the excitement of a live hockey game, this is a fun way to spend an evening.

17. Have Fun at Méga Parc

If you’re looking for an indoor activity that keeps kids entertained for hours, Méga Parc is the place to go. Located inside Les Galeries de la Capitale shopping mall, this huge indoor amusement park has rides, games, and even an indoor skating trail.

Unlike a traditional ice rink, the skating trail winds through the park, making it a fun way to skate indoors. There’s also a Ferris wheel with no spokes (the first of its kind in North America), a roller coaster, bumper cars, a climbing wall, and more. It’s a great option for a cold or snowy day when you want to stay inside but still have some excitement.

Since it’s inside a mall, you’ll also find restaurants and shopping nearby, making it easy to spend a full afternoon here. If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great place to let them burn off some energy!

Classic Quebec Foods & Treats to Try in Winter

Quebec City has plenty of great places to eat, but there are a few classic winter treats that you have to try while you’re here. From sweet maple taffy to the ultimate comfort food, poutine, these are the best things to warm up with after a cold day outside.

18. Try Maple Taffy

If there’s one winter treat that’s uniquely Canadian, it’s maple taffy (or tire d’érable in French). Made by pouring hot maple syrup directly onto fresh snow, then rolling it up on a popsicle stick, it turns into a sticky, maple-flavoured lollipop. 

You’ll find maple taffy sold right outside some shops and cafes in Old Quebec, usually on a tray of fresh snow. And while they’re not cheap – expect to pay about $5-7 for one – they’re definitely worth the experience. We tried one from a cafe on Rue Petit Champlain, so if you’re wandering through Old Quebec, keep an eye on for this sweet treat. 

19. Eat Poutine

Since poutine, one of the most famous Canadian foods, was invented right here in Quebec, you have to try it while you’re in the province. This classic Québécois dish is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly winter day, with its crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and hot gravy.

You’ll find poutine all over Quebec City, from casual snack bars to upscale restaurants. Some places stick to the classic version, while others get creative with toppings like pulled pork, duck confit, or even foie gras. The best poutine is always made with real cheese curds (not shredded cheese!), so if you hear them squeak when you bite into them, you know it’s the real deal.

One of our favourite spots is Snack Bar Saint-Jean, just a five minute walk from Place d’Youville. It’s the perfect place to grab a warm, cheesy poutine after skating at the outdoor rink. If you’re looking for a more elevated, homemade-style version, Le Chic Shack near Château Frontenac is another great option.

20. Warm Up with a Hot Chocolate

After spending time outside in the cold, nothing beats warming up with a rich, creamy hot chocolate. In Quebec, hot chocolate is often made with real melted chocolate instead of cocoa powder, giving it a thicker, more indulgent taste.

One of the best places to grab one is Érico, a small chocolate shop and museum that serves some of the best hot chocolate in the city. They have several options, including extra-dark, regular milk, and even spiced hot chocolate – my favourite. 

Another great option is Café La Maison Smith, which has a few locations around the city, including one in Place Royale—a great place to stop if you’re wandering through the historic Lower Town. 

If you’re ordering, look for “chocolat chaud” on the menu. And if you’ve only had hot chocolate made from a powder mix, you’re in for a treat—Quebec’s version is richer, smoother, and exactly what you need after a cold winter day.

Winter Festivals

Quebec City knows how to celebrate winter, and depending on when you visit, you might find yourself in the middle of a festive Christmas market or a full-blown winter carnival. From twinkling holiday lights to ice palaces and night parades, these events bring the city to life in the colder months.

21. Quebec City German Christmas Market

(Late November – December 23)

Held in Old Quebec, this German style Christmas market feels like a mini Europe in Canada, with traditional wooden stalls selling handmade gifts, festive decorations, and delicious holiday treats. You’ll find everything from German bratwurst and mulled wine to local Quebec products like maple treats and cheeses. Even if you’re not shopping, the lights, decorations, and Christmas music make it worth a visit. 

I love Christmas markets and have even traveled to Europe a few times just to experience them. But if you’re looking for something closer to home, Quebec City’s German Christmas Market is a fantastic way to get into the holiday spirit. We’ve made the drive more than once just to experience it.

Here’s everything you need to know about Quebec City’s German Christmas Market! 

22. Quebec Winter Carnival

(January 24 – February 11, 2025)

The biggest winter festival in Quebec, the Carnaval de Québec is all about embracing the cold with snow sculptures, night parades, live entertainment, and classic winter activities like tobogganing and ice skating. Bonhomme, the festival’s famous snowman mascot, has his own Ice Palace, and you’ll see him all over the city during the event. Be sure to try maple taffy and watch (or take part in) a traditional canoe race on the frozen St. Lawrence River! 

More Winter Activities to Try in Quebec City

If you’re looking for even more ways to experience winter in Quebec, here are a few other activities to consider:

23. Fat Biking

Explore snow-covered trails on a fat bike, which has oversized tires designed for winter riding. Several places in and around Quebec City offer rentals and guided rides, making it a fun way to see the city or nearby nature trails.

24. Relax at a Nordic Spa

If you’re traveling with another adult, this is the perfect way to take a break from the kids and unwind for a few hours. Strøm Spa Nordique, located right along the St. Lawrence River, offers hot thermal pools, saunas, and steam baths, all set against a snowy winter backdrop. It’s a peaceful, relaxing escape after a busy day of exploring.

25. Try Dog Sledding

A classic Canadian winter experience, dog sledding tours are offered just outside Quebec City. If this is something you’re interested in, it’s worth researching ethical providers to ensure the dogs are well cared for.

Where to Stay in Quebec City in Winter

Quebec City has plenty of great hotels to choose from but here are three great family-friendly options to consider:

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: If you’re looking for a luxury experience, this iconic castle-like hotel is the most famous place to stay in Quebec City, with historic charm and stunning river views.

Hôtel Palace Royal: This is our favourite spot near the Old Town. A mid-range option with a beautiful indoor swimming pool, located within walking distance of Old Quebec’s main attractions, we’ve stayed here a few times and always had a good experience.

L’Hôtel Québec: A great option for families with a large indoor water play area and spacious rooms. Perfect for little ones who need to burn off energy after a day outside. And while it’s close to the aquarium, it is a bit of a drive from downtown, so you will need to plan for parking. This was like a mini resort, while still being in Canada.

Two other great options are the Hilton Quebec and Delta Hotels Quebec, which both have heated outdoor pools, even in the winter months. 

What to Expect: Winter Temperatures in Quebec City

Quebec City’s winters are cold, snowy, and long, but they’re also what makes the city such a magical place in the colder months. Temperatures vary depending on when you visit, with the coldest months being January and February.

December: Temperatures range from -3°C to -10°C (26°F to 14°F). There’s usually snow, plenty of festive decorations, and festive events like the Christmas Market.

January: Temperatures range from -6°C to -15°C (20°F to 5°F). It’s the coldest month but there’s plenty to do. Snow is guaranteed, and it’s a perfect for outdoor winter activities like skiing, skating, and the toboggan slide. 

February: Temperatures are similar to January, ranging from -4°C to -13°C (24°F to 8°F). This is peak Carnaval season, and the snow is at its best for skiing and tubing.

March: Temps start to rise, averaging 0°C to -8°C (32°F to 18°F). Early March still has plenty of snow, but by mid-month, some winter activities start to wind down. We visited in mid March and just missed ice fishing, but still found plenty of things to do. 

Final Thoughts on Visiting Quebec City in Winter

Quebec City in the winter is truly something special—from historic streets covered in snow to exciting outdoor activities and cozy spots to warm up. Whether you’re visiting for Carnaval, the Christmas Market, or just to experience a real Canadian winter, there’s so much to see and do.

Planning a trip? Here’s how to spend 3 Days in Quebec City in the winter, tips for visiting Montmorency Falls or the Aquarium du Quebec, and if you’re visiting during the warmer months, here’s the best things to do in Quebec City in the summer.