Quebec City: Old Quebec Walking Tour with Funicular Ride

If you’re planning a trip to Quebec City and want a well-rounded introduction, this Old Quebec Walking Tour with Funicular Ride could be just what you need. It’s a popular choice among travelers, boasting an impressive 4.9 out of 5 stars from hundreds of reviews. Priced at around $37 per person, it offers a compact but thorough taste of the city’s historic charm—all in about 2 to 3 hours.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to see both the Upper and Lower Towns in a manageable stroll, paired with a funicular ride that adds a bit of fun and extra convenience. Second, the guides consistently receive praise for their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, turning what might seem like a standard city walk into a memorable experience.

Of course, no experience is perfect. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users, given the nature of the terrain and walking involved. And if you’re someone who prefers private, personalized experiences, you might find the group size limited to up to 12 people, which is still quite intimate for a city tour.

This tour is ideal if you’re eager to get a good overview of Quebec’s history and architecture, enjoy scenic views from the city’s heights, and appreciate guided insights. It’s especially great for first-timers wanting a snapshot of what makes Quebec so special or anyone curious about the city’s past in a lively, engaging format.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comprehensive overview of both the Upper and Lower Towns of Quebec City
• Includes a funicular ride for easy access to the upper district
• Expert guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Affordable price point offers good value for the duration and content
• Great for first-time visitors wanting a structured introduction
• Limited mobility options might be a concern for some travelers

An inviting introduction to Quebec City’s historic streets

Many travelers find that Old Quebec’s charm is best experienced on foot. This tour, led by knowledgeable guides, helps you explore the city’s highlights while giving you a sense of its layered past. The walk is designed to cover key sites and stories, making it a perfect way to orient yourself especially if you’re only in town for a short stay.

Starting at the 112, rue Saint-Paul, the meeting point is central and convenient. From there, your guide takes you through the vibrant streets of the Lower Town, where centuries-old buildings like Place Royale and the Fortifications of Quebec stand as testaments to the city’s early days. As you walk, you’ll learn about Quebec’s founding, its French and British influences, and the stories behind its most iconic landmarks.

The ride that adds a twist

What sets this tour apart is the funicular ride—a quick, scenic way to ascend directly into the Upper Town. This ride is often a highlight, especially since it’s not something every city offers. The ascent provides fantastic views of the St. Lawrence River and the city’s skyline, giving you an expansive perspective on Quebec’s layout and beauty.

If the funicular is temporarily closed, the guide can arrange a taxi or provide a ticket for later use, so you won’t miss out on this part of the experience. Multiple reviews mention how much travelers appreciated the funicular, with one describing it as “short and sweet” but “fun.”

Exploring the Upper Town

Once in the Upper Town, your walk continues around the most historic and picturesque parts of Quebec City. Key stops include Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, possibly the most photographed hotel in the world, with its turreted roof and grand facade. From here, you get sweeping views of the Terrasse Dufferin, a lively promenade perfect for photos and people-watching.

Other highlights include the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, a beautiful place that’s been central to the city’s spiritual life for centuries, and City Hall, which adds to the historic ambiance of the area.

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What the guides bring to the table

Reviewers often rave about the guides’ depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling. One reviewer mentioned that their guide “went out of his way to provide a good experience,” while others highlight the ability to ask questions and get in-depth answers. Guides like Yves, Murielle, Louis, and Dony are repeatedly praised for their friendliness, patience, and passion for Quebec.

Many reviews also note that guides are attentive and eager to share tips about restaurants, sights, and hidden gems, making the tour not just educational but practical. The fact that the tour caters to English, French, and Spanish speakers broadens its appeal.

The practicalities

At just $37, this tour delivers a lot of bang for your buck. It includes the guided walk, a funicular ride, and optional hotel pickup if you select the private option. The group size is kept to up to 12 people, which means you get a more personal experience than the typical large group.

The tour lasts about 2 to 3 hours, making it a flexible option if you’re fitting in sightseeing between other activities or just want a relaxed pace. Keep in mind that it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, since the terrain and walking involved can be challenging.

If you’re concerned about time, the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund is a good safety net, and booking is easy with a “reserve now, pay later” option.

The reviews speak for themselves

Many travelers mention how they appreciated the insightful, friendly guides and the beautiful scenery, with one saying, “Yves made the tour enjoyable,” and another noting that their guide “kept the tour moving at a good pace.” The balance of historical facts and practical tips makes this tour accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of visitors.

Despite some minor complaints about crowding on busy days, the general consensus is that the tour provides excellent value, offering a good overview of Quebec’s most notable sights in a manageable timeframe.

If you’re a first-time visitor to Quebec City, this tour is a fantastic way to get your bearings. It covers the main attractions and gives you an understanding of the city’s layered history. The inclusion of the funicular makes it especially appealing if you want to experience a bit of local transportation charm.

History buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone who enjoys guided storytelling will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also suitable for visitors who prefer a small group environment, where questions and interaction are encouraged.

However, if you have mobility issues or want a more personalized experience, you might want to explore private options or other tours tailored to specific interests.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
This tour doesn’t specifically cater to children, and the terrain might be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s more suitable for adults or families with older children comfortable with walking.

How long does the tour last?
Expect the tour to take about 2 to 3 hours, including the funicular ride and walking around the historic sites.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the guided walk, a funicular ride, and, if you choose the private option, hotel pickup. Drinks, snacks, and additional transportation aren’t included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Are there language options?
Yes, tours are available in English, French, and Spanish, making it accessible for a diverse group of travelers.

Is there a minimum group size?
The tour groups have a maximum of 12 people, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What if the funicular is closed?
If the funicular isn’t operating, your guide will arrange a cab or provide a ticket for later use, so you won’t miss the experience completely.

Where do I meet the guide?
Meet at 112 Rue Saint-Paul, in the yellow building, which is central and easy to find.

This Old Quebec Walking Tour with Funicular Ride offers a practical, engaging way to explore one of North America’s most charming cities. You’ll get a solid overview of Quebec’s history, stunning sights, and a taste of local transportation—all led by guides praised for their friendliness and knowledge. It’s a great choice if you’re after a relaxed, informative tour that doesn’t break the bank.

While it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges or for travelers seeking a highly private experience, it excels at giving first-time visitors a broad, enjoyable glimpse of Quebec City’s beauty and history. With the added bonus of scenic views and cultural insights, this tour is a memorable introduction to the city’s character—whether you’re there for a quick visit or just want to get your bearings before exploring further.

Consider this tour if you want a friendly, well-organized experience that balances history, scenery, and a touch of fun—making your first impressions of Quebec City truly special.

You can check availability for your dates here: