Visiting the Quebec City Christmas Markets the Right Way

Few destinations capture the magic of the holiday season quite like Quebec City at Christmas. One of The Traveling Professor’s most popular small group tours is our Quebec City Christmas Markets experience—something we’ve proudly been offering since 2019. It’s a festive, beautifully curated getaway that delivers Old World charm without the hassle of a transatlantic flight.

Why Quebec City Is the Perfect Christmas Market Destination

For American travelers, Quebec City is refreshingly easy. There’s no overnight, across-the-ocean flight, and arrivals and departures are simple and efficient. Yet once you arrive, you’ll swear you’ve stepped into Europe. As the largest walled city in North America, Quebec City offers a distinctly European atmosphere—arguably more authentic than many cities across the Atlantic.

Stay in Iconic Luxury at Le Château Frontenac

When traveling to a cold-weather destination, comfort matters. That’s why our tour features a stay at the legendary Le Château Frontenac. There is simply no better place to stay in Quebec City. Its unmatched grandeur, historic elegance, and five-star service make it an essential part of the experience.

We even include a guided tour of the hotel itself—one of the few hotels in the world truly worth touring. Our guide, often dressed in period costume, brings the fascinating history of this iconic landmark to life.

Beyond the Christmas Markets

While the Christmas Markets run from Thursday through the weekend, there’s much more to experience on our thoughtfully designed itinerary.

Île d’Orléans & Winter Wonders
Our scenic excursion includes a visit to St. Anne de Beaupré, beautifully decorated in full Christmas splendor. We stop at the Albert Gilles Copper Art Studio for an unforgettable demonstration—Albert Gilles crafted the famous copper doors of the basilica. Nearby Montmorency Falls is especially stunning in winter, and lunch at La Goéliche, overlooking the St. Lawrence River, is a highlight. On the way back, we warm up at Le Grand Marché, a lively indoor Christmas market.

A Festive Walking Tour of Old Quebec
A guided walking tour—brisk but magical—takes us through historic Old Quebec. Starting at Place Jacques-Cartier, we stroll along Rue du Petit-Champlain, often called the prettiest street in North America, dazzling with holiday decorations. And yes, there’s time to stop for hot chocolate—you’ll appreciate it.

The Christmas Markets Themselves

The Quebec City Christmas Markets feature beautifully crafted, locally made goods. It’s the perfect place to find meaningful gifts your family and friends will truly treasure—far more special than anything mass-produced.

Exceptional Dining Experiences

No visit would be complete without outstanding food. We dine at some of The Traveling Professor’s most-loved restaurants, including:

• Restaurant La Bûche for classic Québécois cuisine

• Aux Anciens Canadiens, the oldest restaurant in Quebec City

• Alphonse Cuisine et Cocktails, our personal favorite

Join Us in Quebec City This Christmas

Quebec City at Christmastime is ideal for a four- or five-night getaway—festive, relaxed, and wonderfully immersive. Join The Traveling Professor and experience the Quebec City Christmas Markets the right way: with expert planning, luxury accommodations, unforgettable meals, and the camaraderie of a small group.