Death in New-France Animated Guided Tour in Québec

Getting a Feel for the Death in New-France Tour in Quebec

If you’re into history with a darker twist, this Death in New-France animated guided tour promises a chilling yet fascinating peek into 17th-century attitudes toward death in Quebec City. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve read enough reviews and details to give you a solid sense of what to expect.

What really draws me to this tour are two standout aspects: the animated storytelling that makes the past come alive and the focused exploration of burial customs, which is pretty unique for a city tour. Plus, at just under $20, the price feels reasonable given that it includes the admission fee.

However, a note of caution—this tour is a bit morbid and might not be suited for younger kids or those sensitive to darker themes. It’s best for adults or teens with an interest in history, death customs, or eerie stories. If you’re looking for a straightforward sightseeing walk, this isn’t it. But if you want a more edgy, thought-provoking experience, it could be just the ticket.

This experience is perfect if you’re a history buff, someone curious about death customs, or you simply enjoy stories with a spooky edge. It’s a different way to see Old Quebec, and it’s well-suited for those comfortable with a moderate physical level and a bit of gloomy storytelling.

Key Points

• Unique focus on death and burial customs in 17th-century Quebec
• Animated storytelling adds a lively twist to historical tales
• Tour includes admission fee and guided narration
• Not suitable for children under 13 due to the theme
• Duration is about 75 minutes, walking through Old Quebec’s Upper Town
• Free cancellation makes planning flexible

A Look at the Tour Itself

The Death in New-France tour begins outside the Infotourist Center at 12 rue Sainte-Anne, right in the heart of Old Quebec. It’s a comfortable starting point, easy to find, with public transportation nearby. The tour lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, which is just enough time to get a solid overview without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Monument De François De Laval
Your journey kicks off here, a significant site in Quebec’s history, as it marks the departure point for the walking tour. From this vantage, you’ll get a sense of the city’s layout and the historical importance of the area. The tour’s admission fee is included, so no extra cost at this point.

Walking Through Old Quebec’s Upper Town
The tour meanders through the cobblestone streets and alleys of the Upper Town. While the overall pace is moderate, travelers should be prepared for walking on uneven surfaces, so good shoes are a plus. The guide will share tales of the period, focusing on funeral rites, ancient cemeteries, and how different social classes—criminals, the poor, the elite—were disposed of after death.

What You’ll Learn

The stories are brought to life with animated narration, making historical facts engaging and more memorable. The guide’s animated style, or nearly alive delivery, helps to make the grim tales more entertaining rather than overly macabre. You’ll hear about resting places in Old Quebec and get insights into how death was viewed by settlers of the time.

The Morbid Secrets

You might find the stories about funeral rites and burial customs of the period quite revealing. For example, you’ll learn how the dead’s bodies were handled differently depending on social status or circumstances—something that adds a layer of understanding to Quebec’s historic cemeteries like the ones still visible today.

The End of the Tour

The walk concludes outside the Morrin Center, giving you a chance to explore that area afterward if you wish. It’s a convenient ending point, close to other attractions or cafes where you could reflect on what you’ve learned.

The Experience: What’s Actually Like?

From what reviews suggest, the animated storytelling makes the experience stand out. One review mentions, “The guide’s delivery was almost alive, making the tales of death quite captivating.” It’s clear that the storytelling style is intended to keep the mood engaging, even if the subject matter is dark.

The duration feels just right—long enough to be immersive without dragging. You get a good mix of history, storytelling, and walking, so this tour doesn’t become monotonous. Plus, at $19.80 per person, it’s a reasonably priced way to add a different flavor to your Quebec City visit.

However, some reviews hint at the tour’s somber tone—definitely not a lighthearted stroll. It’s more suited to those who enjoy history with a somber or mysterious edge. If you’re expecting lively humor or bright stories, you might find this tour more serious than you’d like.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour is designed for people with moderate physical fitness. The walking is comfortable but involves some uneven surfaces typical of Old Quebec’s streets. Service animals are allowed, which is great if you’re traveling with a guide dog. Children under 13 are not recommended, likely due to the mature themes and the nature of the stories.

Additional Info

Since the tour is bookable 45 days in advance on average, it’s advisable to plan ahead if you’re on a tight schedule. The free cancellation policy provides some reassurance—cancel at least 24 hours before if your plans change.

The Value of the Experience

With a ticket price of less than $20, including the admission fee, this tour offers a fairly affordable way to experience a side of Quebec City that’s usually hidden behind history books and monuments. You’re paying for a guided, story-driven experience that combines education with entertainment—a blend that many travelers find worthwhile.

While it may not appeal to everyone—especially if you’re squeamish about dark topics—there’s genuine value in understanding how those who lived in the 17th century viewed death and the afterlife. Plus, the storytelling adds a memorable element that simple walking tours might lack.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults and teens with a curiosity about history or the macabre. Those who enjoy narratives about burial rites, cemeteries, or old customs will find it particularly interesting. If you’re traveling with children younger than 13, this might not be the right fit unless they have a strong interest in dark stories and aren’t overly sensitive.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer a more atmospheric, story-rich tour rather than a standard sightseeing walk. Remember, it’s a guided experience—so you’ll get insights you wouldn’t find in a guidebook, delivered in an engaging manner.

Final Words: Is It Worth It?

All in all, the Death in New-France animated guided tour offers a thought-provoking glimpse into Quebec’s past, wrapped in a storytelling style that makes history feel alive. Its affordability, combined with the unique focus on funeral customs and cemeteries, makes it appealing to a niche of travelers who want more than just the usual sights.

If you’re fascinated by history’s darker side and don’t mind a bit of gloom, this could be a memorable addition to your Quebec City trip. It’s especially good for those who appreciate stories that linger and want to connect more deeply with the city’s past beyond the usual tourist spots.

However, if you’re after lighthearted fun or traveling with very young kids, you might want to pass or look for a different experience. For the right audience, this tour offers a rare, insightful peek into the mortality and customs of early Quebec—worthy of a spot on your itinerary if you’re up for it.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children under 13?
No, it’s not recommended for children younger than 13 due to the dark and mature themes related to death and burial practices.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it’s a walking tour that starts outside the Infotourist Center and ends outside the Morrin Center, so be prepared for a walk through Old Quebec’s streets.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 75 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the stories without feeling rushed.

What’s the price, and is it worth the cost?
It costs about $19.80 per person and includes the admission fee. Given the guided storytelling and focus on a niche topic, it offers good value for travelers interested in history and dark tales.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are full if canceled early.

Is the tour accessible?
It’s suitable for those with a moderate physical fitness level. The walking involves some uneven surfaces typical of Old Quebec.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through cobbled streets. Dress appropriately for the weather, as part of the tour is outdoors.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is run by Les Promenades Fantômes, a company specializing in ghostly and historical tours in Quebec City.

If you’re intrigued by history’s darker chapters and enjoy storytelling, this tour could be a surprising highlight of your Quebec trip—just go in with the right expectations and an open mind.