Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City

Exploring Quebec City through Food and History: An Honest Review of the Combo Tour

If you’re thinking about visiting Quebec City and want to get a true taste of its charm, this Combo Historical and Food Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems to offer a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing with a hearty culinary adventure.

What we love about this tour? First, the way it combines insider knowledge of the city’s history with a delicious sampling of its best restaurants makes it feel like a true local experience. Second, the small-group size — capped at 12 people — ensures enough intimacy for personalized attention and engaging conversations.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves about moderate walking and requires comfortable shoes, which is common for city explorations. The price, at around $209 per person, might seem steep for some, but considering the multiple gourmet stops and guided narration, many find it offers good value.

This experience suits travelers who love a bit of history, enjoy trying local cuisine, and prefer a more curated, intimate tour over wandering alone. If you’re visiting Quebec City with a taste for both stories and flavors, this could be a standout choice.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines city sights with culinary stops, ensuring a full immersion.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 people, fostering a personal, friendly atmosphere.
• High-Quality Food: Tastes at top-rated restaurants, including Michelin-starred options.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share both history and local insights.
• Flexible & Convenient: Includes a funicular ride and multiple stops, all within about 3 hours.
• Good Value: Despite the price, reviews suggest this is a comprehensive and delicious way to explore Quebec.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

The Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at 112 Rue Saint-Paul, right in the heart of Old Quebec. This is a prime spot, close to many attractions and accessible via public transportation. From here, the guide introduces the tour and sets expectations, blending storytelling with anticipation for the bites ahead.

La Fresque des Quebecois

We begin with a quick stop at the Fresque des Quebecois, a stunning mural depicting the city’s people. It’s a visual feast and a perfect introduction to Quebec’s character. It’s a free, five-minute stop that offers a glimpse into local culture through art. As one reviewer noted, this mural is “one of the most beautiful inside Old Quebec,” so it’s a picture-worthy beginning.

Place Royale and Little Champlain

Next, the group visits Place Royale, the historic birthplace of the city and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a short five-minute stroll, but here you’ll get a quick lesson on how Quebec’s European roots shaped its future. Then, it’s onto Quartier Petit Champlain, once a modest trading district that has transformed into a vibrant area filled with boutique shops and cafes. These stops aren’t just sightseeing—they’re storytelling moments, giving context to the city’s layered past.

Funiculaire Ride and Views

A highlight is the funicular ride, which takes you down to the Lower Town. This included ticket isn’t just a practical move—it’s a fun experience in itself and offers a different perspective on the city. You’ll love the views from the terraces and the chance to snap photos of the St. Lawrence River.

The Heart of the City: Terrasse Dufferin and the City Hall

From the panoramic Terrasse Dufferin, you get a commanding view of the river and the city of Lévis. It’s an ideal spot to soak in Quebec’s scenery. Then, walking toward Hotel De Ville, the city hall, the guide shares insights into Quebec’s administrative heart. These stops are brief but packed with stories that help frame the city’s identity.

Notre Dame Basilica and Local Religious Influence

The tour wraps up with a visit to Notre Dame De Quebec Basilica Cathedral, one of the city’s most iconic religious sites. It’s a quick stop but an important one that highlights the religious roots and influence in Quebec’s culture.

The Food Experience: A Gourmet Journey

What truly sets this tour apart is the culinary component. Over the course of around 3 hours, you’ll enjoy 2 entrees, 2 main courses, and a dessert across some of Quebec City’s top-rated restaurants. Each stop offers a different style of cuisine and a carefully curated dish—think shrimp flambe, onion soup, and more.

Most reviews praise the quality of food and the variety offered. Some mention that one of the stops was a Michelin star restaurant, elevating the experience to gourmet levels. The portions are enough to satisfy a hearty dinner, so you might find yourself quite full by the end, especially after tasting multiple courses.

Highlights from Reviews

• “Each restaurant served an amazing dish, such as shrimp flambe and onion soup,” reports a happy diner.
• Multiple reviewers highlight the attention to detail in food presentation and flavor.
• The wine, beer, or mocktail options add a nice touch, making the experience feel more like a leisurely indulgence rather than a hurried tasting.

The Value of the Food Stops

Considering the tour price and the quality of the restaurants, many guests feel the experience offers great value. You’re not just sampling food; you’re experiencing some of the best culinary spots in the city, guided by someone who knows their way around both the history and the local gastronomy.

Guides and Group Atmosphere

A recurring theme in reviews is praise for the guides. Names like Carole, Danielle, Lynn, and Linn come up as enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and engaging. They don’t just recite facts—they tell stories, answer questions, and personalize the experience.

The small-group setting creates a more intimate and relaxed environment. You won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, which makes it easier to ask questions and really enjoy the stops. Tour participants mention everything from friendly banter to interesting historical insights that deepen their appreciation of Quebec City.

Practicalities and Logistics

The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable outing even for those with tight schedules. The group size is capped at 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

The price of $209.14 per person covers all the food, guided narration, a funicular ticket, and drinks at the restaurants. This seems reasonable given the gourmet quality of the meals and the insider knowledge shared.

You’ll need to wear smart casual attire and bring comfortable walking shoes because there’s about a moderate amount of walking involved. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately—an umbrella or jacket could come in handy if rain is forecasted.

Additional Considerations

• No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.
• Remember to inform the guide about any allergies or dietary restrictions when booking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is excellent for food lovers who want a gourmet sampling of Quebec’s best eateries, as well as anyone interested in learning about the city’s history without long lectures. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and guided storytelling rather than solo wandering.

If you’re visiting with a curious mind and a healthy appetite, you’ll likely find this tour a highlight of your trip. It’s perfect for those who appreciate quality food, engaging guides, and a relaxed pace.

The Sum Up

All in all, this Combo Historical and Food Tour of Old Quebec City appears to be a thoughtfully curated experience that balances culture, history, and gastronomy. With rave reviews praising the guides, the food, and the views, it’s clear that many find this tour worth the investment. The small group size and gourmet stops make it feel exclusive and special—an excellent way to see and taste Quebec City’s finest.

While it’s not the cheapest activity, the level of detail, quality of food, and educational value make it a compelling choice. It’s best suited for travelers who want a leisurely, in-depth introduction to Quebec City’s soul—its stories and its flavors.

If you’re after a memorable, well-rounded outing that combines sightseeing with a superb culinary journey, this tour could be just the ticket. Be prepared to walk, taste, and learn, all in an afternoon that feels both indulgent and insightful.

FAQ

How long is this tour?
It runs for approximately 3 hours, including stops and food tastings.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers a guided experience, 5 courses of food and drink, a funicular ticket, and all guided narration.

Are drinks at the restaurants included?
Yes, alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, or mocktails are included with the courses, but additional drinks can be purchased if you wish.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions. Dress appropriately, and bring an umbrella if needed.

What about dietary restrictions?
You should inform the tour provider of any allergies or preferences when booking, so they can accommodate your needs.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 12 people, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to secure your spot early, especially since the tour is popular and booked three times just today.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll meet at the designated starting point, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, attentive guidance and manageable pacing make it suitable for most adult travelers interested in food and history.

If you’re ready to explore Quebec City’s stories and flavors in a relaxed, engaging setting, this tour seems like a fantastic choice. It offers a genuine taste of what makes the city special — both in its streets and its kitchens.