The five most Instagram-worthy places in Quebec

Quebec, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, offers a plethora of scenic spots. While “Instagram-worthy” can be subjective, depending on personal tastes and interests, here are five locations that are widely recognized for their breathtaking beauty.

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Old Quebec City (Vieux-Québec)

Visiting Old Quebec City is like stepping into a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and architectural beauty. As a tourist in this UNESCO World Heritage treasure, you find yourself immersed in an environment that beautifully juxtaposes the charm of old Europe with the freshness of the New World.

Your journey likely begins in the heart of the old city, where cobblestone streets and well-preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings create an enchanting atmosphere. The centerpiece is the Château Frontenac, a grand hotel that dominates the skyline with its fairy-tale castle appearance. Taking a guided tour of the hotel reveals its fascinating history and offers spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River.

Strolling through the narrow lanes, you’ll find an array of quaint boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. These are perfect for enjoying a leisurely coffee or for acquiring unique souvenirs and local art. The Quartier Petit Champlain, famous for its picturesque streets and small-scale charm, is a delightful spot to explore artisan shops and savor fine dining in cozy restaurants.

Cultural experiences abound with visits to landmarks like the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, an architectural gem, and the Place Royale, where Samuel de Champlain founded the city. The Musée de la civilisation provides an insightful glimpse into Quebec’s rich cultural and historical tapestry.

Throughout the year, Old Quebec buzzes with activity and festivals. In the summer, street performers and musicians add a lively vibe to the already bustling streets. Winter transforms the city into a snowy wonderland, highlighted by the magical Quebec Winter Carnival. No matter the season, a horse-drawn carriage ride through the old city offers a romantic and nostalgic way to take in the sights.

Sampling the local cuisine is an adventure in itself. From hearty Québécois dishes in traditional bistros to upscale dining experiences offering modern interpretations of local ingredients, the culinary scene is a testament to Quebec City’s blend of tradition and innovation.

For those who enjoy a touch of greenery, the Plains of Abraham provide a vast parkland where history and nature meet. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk, offering a different perspective of the city and a breath of fresh air.

In essence, being a tourist in Old Quebec City is about embracing the layers of history, the vibrant culture, and the warm hospitality of this French-Canadian jewel. It’s an experience that charmingly blends the past with the present, offering memories that linger long after the visit.

Gaspé Peninsula (La Gaspésie)

Traveling to the Gaspé Peninsula is an adventure into a land where the sea meets the sky, where rugged cliffs and tranquil beaches frame a landscape rich in history and natural beauty. As a tourist in this captivating region of Quebec, you are treated to a tapestry of experiences, each more mesmerizing than the last.

Your journey through Gaspésie, as it’s known locally, likely follows the scenic Route 132, which encircles the peninsula. This road trip is in itself a highlight, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the rugged coastline. The ever-changing landscape, from seaside villages to forested hills, ensures that the journey is as rewarding as the destinations.

A key feature of your visit is the famed Percé Rock, an imposing natural limestone arch rising majestically from the sea. Nearby, the mystical Bonaventure Island is home to one of the world’s largest and most accessible gannet colonies. A boat trip to the island not only provides close encounters with these magnificent birds but also offers a unique perspective on Percé Rock and the surrounding waters.

Gaspé Peninsula’s natural splendor extends to its national parks. Forillon National Park, at the northern tip, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and hikers. Here, trails lead through diverse landscapes, from beaches to cliffs to forested areas, and wildlife sightings, including bears, moose, and whales, are common. The park’s history, particularly its role in the lives of local fishermen and Gaspé’s Mi’kmaq people, adds depth to its natural beauty.

The region’s charm is amplified by its quaint fishing villages and lighthouses, each telling a story of the sea’s influence on human life here. Towns like Gaspé and Percé not only offer picturesque settings but also serve as gateways to understanding local history and culture. Maritime museums, artisan shops, and seafood restaurants allow you to delve into the region’s heritage and savor its culinary delights.

Outdoor activities abound in Gaspésie. Kayaking in the clear coastal waters, hiking along cliff-top paths, or exploring the underwater world through diving are just a few ways to connect with the natural environment. The Peninsula’s rivers and streams are also renowned for salmon fishing, offering yet another way to engage with the great outdoors.

Beyond nature and adventure, the Gaspé Peninsula’s cultural tapestry is rich and diverse. The Mi’kmaq culture, along with the influence of early European settlers, is evident in local art, music, and festivals. Exploring this aspect gives depth to your understanding of the region and enriches your travel experience.

In Gaspésie, every day brings a new discovery, whether it’s a hidden beach, a historical lighthouse, or a warm interaction with a local fisherman. The blend of natural grandeur, rich history, and warm hospitality makes the Gaspé Peninsula not just a destination, but a journey through a land that feels both wild and wonderfully welcoming.

The Laurentians (Les Laurentides)

Exploring the Laurentians, a region just north of Montreal, offers a delightful escape into a world where natural beauty and outdoor adventure blend seamlessly with cultural charm and relaxation. As a tourist here, you are invited into a picturesque landscape characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes, all set against the backdrop of the Laurentian Mountains.

The region’s heartbeat is undoubtedly its natural scenery, which changes beautifully with the seasons. In summer, the Laurentians become a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, mountain biking, and water sports on the region’s numerous lakes and rivers are popular activities. The scenery is idyllic, with opportunities for tranquil canoeing or kayaking, where the only sounds are the gentle lap of water and the call of loons.

Winter transforms the Laurentians into a snow-covered wonderland, renowned for some of Quebec’s best skiing and snowboarding. Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort stands out as a premier destination, offering not just great slopes but a vibrant village atmosphere full of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding are other ways to enjoy the winter landscape, often followed by cozy evenings by a fireplace.

But the Laurentians are more than just an outdoor paradise. The region is dotted with charming small towns and villages, each with its own unique appeal. Places like Saint-Sauveur, Val-David, and Mont-Tremblant village are bustling with cultural activities, art galleries, and boutique shopping. The area is particularly known for its local artisans and craftsmen, whose work is inspired by the surrounding natural beauty.

The culinary scene in the Laurentians is a reflection of its rich cultural tapestry, with a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients. Farmers’ markets, country-style dining, and gourmet restaurants provide a taste of the region’s bounty. Maple products, cheeses, and craft beers are just a few of the local specialties you might enjoy.

Accommodations in the Laurentians range from luxury resorts and cozy inns to charming bed-and-breakfasts and rustic cabins, offering something for every taste and budget. Many of these places offer not just a bed for the night but an experience, be it a spa treatment, a gastronomic delight, or simply a spectacular view.

Throughout the year, the Laurentians host numerous festivals and events, celebrating everything from music and art to food and the outdoors. These events provide a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the region and are a great way to interact with locals and other visitors.

Visiting the Laurentians also offers a chance to step back in time. The region’s history, influenced by both the French and the English, is evident in its architecture, museums, and historical sites. The tranquil setting of the many lakes and forests has made it a traditional retreat for Montrealers looking to escape city life, a tradition that continues today.

In the Laurentians, the allure lies in the blend of tranquility and activity, nature and culture. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, visitors find a region rich in experiences and beauty, all within easy reach of the urban energy of Montreal. The Laurentians offer a chance to connect with nature, indulge in local flavors, and immerse yourself in a relaxed, yet vibrant lifestyle.

Charlevoix Region

Venturing into the Charlevoix region of Quebec, you find yourself in a place where art, nature, and gastronomy intertwine in an enchanting landscape. Shaped by a meteorite impact millions of years ago, the region’s distinctive topography of rolling hills and deep valleys stretches alongside the majestic St. Lawrence River, presenting a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

As you travel through Charlevoix, the dramatic landscapes inspire awe at every turn. The river, vast and ever-present, offers stunning vistas and plays host to a variety of marine life, including whales, which can be seen on cruises or from the shoreline. The region’s two national parks, Grands-Jardins and Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie, are natural treasures, offering a diverse range of activities from hiking and canoeing to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, depending on the season.

But Charlevoix’s allure extends beyond its natural wonders. The region has long been a haven for artists, and this creative spirit is palpable throughout. Art galleries, studios, and workshops dot the landscape, often housed in picturesque rural settings or charming villages. The town of Baie-Saint-Paul, with its narrow streets lined with art galleries, boutiques, and eateries, is a hub of artistic activity and a delightful place for a leisurely stroll.

Culinary experiences in Charlevoix are deeply rooted in the land and the river. The region is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, with local cheeses, ciders, craft beers, and fresh produce taking center stage. Dining in Charlevoix can range from enjoying simple, hearty fare at a country inn to indulging in sophisticated dishes at a gourmet restaurant, each offering a taste of the region’s rich terroir.

Accommodations in Charlevoix mirror its eclectic charm. Options range from luxury resorts and chic boutique hotels to cozy bed-and-breakfasts and rustic lodges. Many of these places not only provide a comfortable stay but also embrace the region’s ethos of natural harmony and artistic expression.

The cultural landscape of Charlevoix is as diverse as its natural one. The region’s history, influenced by both the French and British, is evident in its architecture and museums. The picturesque village of La Malbaie, for example, is known for its historic summer homes and the iconic Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu hotel, which overlooks the river.

Throughout the year, Charlevoix hosts a variety of events and festivals that celebrate its art, music, and culinary delights. These gatherings provide a festive atmosphere and a chance to engage with the region’s vibrant community spirit.

In Charlevoix, every sense is engaged, every moment filled with a new discovery. Whether it’s exploring a dramatic landscape, savoring a local dish, admiring a piece of art, or simply breathing in the fresh river air, a visit to Charlevoix is an immersion in a world where the grandeur of nature is complemented by human creativity and warm hospitality.

Magdalen Islands (Îles de la Madeleine)

Embarking on a journey to the Magdalen Islands, or Îles de la Madeleine, immerses you in a unique, windswept archipelago where the culture, land, and sea intertwine in a tapestry of stunning beauty and welcoming community spirit. Located in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, these islands offer an escape into a world where the rhythms of maritime life dictate the pace and traditions of the local people.

As a tourist in the Magdalen Islands, you are immediately struck by the landscape: long, slender islands connected by sandy isthmuses, with beaches and red cliffs sculpted by the sea and wind. The striking natural beauty of the place is both serene and powerful, with the ocean omnipresent, shaping both the land and the lives of its inhabitants.

The islands are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The beaches, some of the most beautiful in Eastern Canada, invite long, leisurely walks and are perfect for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and sea kayaking, thanks to the consistent winds and waves. The archipelago is also a paradise for bird watchers, with its abundant birdlife including puffins and gannets.

Cultural experiences in the Magdalen Islands are deeply anchored in the local way of life, heavily influenced by the sea. The islands’ Acadian and maritime heritage is palpable in the small fishing villages where brightly colored houses dot the landscape. Local traditions are best experienced through the music, storytelling, and craftsmanship of the Madelinots, as the islanders are known. Artisans on the islands, including painters, glass-blowers, and wood carvers, draw inspiration from their stunning natural surroundings.

The culinary scene in the Magdalen Islands is a reflection of its rich maritime environment. Seafood, unsurprisingly, is a staple, and you can indulge in the freshest lobster, crab, and other bounties of the sea, often caught the same day. The islands also produce a range of artisanal cheeses, craft beers, and other local delicacies that are a joy to discover.

Accommodations on the islands range from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to charming inns, many offering spectacular views of the sea and the rugged landscape. These places often provide not just a bed for the night but a warm, personalized experience, reflective of the islands’ friendly and welcoming community.

The Magdalen Islands are also known for their colorful events and festivals, which celebrate everything from local music and culture to the islands’ renowned culinary scene. These events provide an excellent opportunity to mingle with locals and experience the islands’ vibrant community spirit.

Visiting the Magdalen Islands is not just a scenic getaway; it’s an immersion into a lifestyle where the land, sea, and community are intricately connected. The beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the people, and the rhythm of the sea create a unique, enchanting experience that lingers in your memory long after your departure.