Magical Quebec City Christmas | 2 Day Itinerary

Are you planning a Quebec City Christmas vacation and looking for itinerary ideas? You’re in the right place!

Old Quebec City is the perfect December trip … From the charming European vibes, to the over-the-top Christmas decorations, to the snowy weather, this is an unforgettable Christmas-time vacation that everyone should experience at least once!

We just came back from 2 days in this magical city in December … and we cannot stop talking about it!

From where to stay, where to eat, how to tackle the Quebec City Christmas Market, and beyond, you’ll find everything you need for a magical two days here.

Read on to learn everything you need to plan a perfect Quebec City Christmas Trip!

Day 1: Quebec City Christmas Markets & Toboggan Slide

Wake up in the heart of Old Quebec City in your lovely AirBnB on Rue Sainte-Ursule. We stayed here with four adults and one toddler (2 queen beds, 1 pack n’ play, and 1 bathroom). It was comfortable and centrally located. The owners were very responsive!

Walk to breakfast at Paillard, a wonderful bakery only 5 minutes walking from the accommodation. This bakery is large with plenty of seating and dozens of options for pastries, sweets, and breakfast items. They also go all out with the Christmas decorations, giving you a fun and festive breakfast atmosphere.

We ordered Pan Suisse, Quiche, 2 coffees, and a water bottle for $20
There was also the option of a breakfast combo: croissant sandwich, fruit cup and coffee for $15

Once you’ve had your fill, it’s time to explore the famous German Christmas Market. The Christmas market is divided into 5 locations throughout Old Quebec City. Be aware, the Market is only open on Thursdays to Sundays on weekends from late November through December.

Start at the first location: Place du Marché – Marketplatz.
Located in the courtyard of Notre Dame de Québec Basilica, you’ll find 28 booths selling artisanal ornaments, local souvenirs, street foods of all kinds, and of course, Glühwein!
- Glühwein Costs $10 per cup, and they will also charge you a $2 cup deposit unless you provide your own mug. But you get the $2 back if you return your cup once you’re finished!
If you are in this market at noon, you will hear the wonderful 12:00 bells from the Basilica, which really add to the magical ambience!

If you want to warm up somewhere before heading to the next Christmas Market location, check out Simon’s Department Store just across the street.

It has clean bathrooms, a water bottle fill station, and tons of outwear options if you want to pick up some extra layers.

Next, head to the second Christmas Market location at Ruelle De L’Eglise – Kirchgasse.

Only a 5 minute walk away
Located within the wrought iron gates of the Cathedral Holy Trinity, this is another picture-perfect market! It feels smaller than the first market stop, but still has plenty of stalls with a combination of food, drink, and souvenir options.

Cross the street from the Christmas Market to explore the Place d’Arms.

Here, you can get some great pictures of the Chateau Frontenac and explore the outdoor art exhibits.

From there, walk around Dufferin Terrace along the Chateau to soak in some spectacular views over the lower city and the frozen St. Lawrence river!

Don’t miss the chance to take the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide for $5per person.

Finally, it’s time to take the Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec or the stairs down the wall, into the lower city, and get dinner at Le Lapin Sauté.

The Funiculaire costs $6 per person each direction.
This restaurant features delicious, authentic local dishes in a quaint, cozy atmosphere.

Day 2: Quebec City Christmas Market, Shopping, & Chateau Frontenac

Walk to breakfast at Baguette & Chocolat. This place has a great menu of authentic, classic Creepes as well as baked goods.

We had two coffees, a cannoli, and a crepe for $22
This place has plenty of seating and clean bathrooms

From there, check out the two remaining portions of the German Christmas Market.

First, walk over to Jardins de L-Hotel-de-Ville Rathausgarten

This portion of the Christmas Market has fun amenities like a children’s chalet and a small outdoor theater. They also have a Christmas train! However, we didn’t line up our visit here with any of those activities, so make sure to look online at the times for these attractions before you visit!

If you are needing a lovely place to warm up before proceeding on to the remaining Christmas Market location, pop into La Boutique de Noel, right next to the Market. This is a large, two story Christmas store full of beautiful ornaments and other Christmas decorations. We spent about an hour here thawing out and shopping before proceeding on to the next stop.

Next, head to the last Christmas Market location: Village Alpin – Bergdorf.

This unique Christmas market location has the least amount of stalls, but is in an unforgettable setting, just beyond St. Jean’s Gate.
Also, this location contains a beautiful outdoor ice rink! You can rent skates from there if you desire. They have chairs on skates for the children, and walkers for those of us who aren’t very proficient at skating.

After all that exploring, it’s time to properly explore the Chateau Frontenac.

Make a reservation at one of the restaurants at Chateau Frontenac in order to get the maximum benefit from your visit. We booked dinner at Bistro le Sam, and loved it!! They have an excellent cocktail menu, and their art deco bar sets a romantic mood. Make sure to get there early to meander around the lobby before dinner.