Quebec City: Double Decker Express Tour

If you’re planning your first visit to Quebec City, a double-decker bus tour might be just what you need to get your bearings and see the highlights without exhausting yourself. Based on reviews and the tour details, this experience offers an easy, comfortable way to enjoy the city’s most famous sights with the added thrill of sitting atop an open-air bus—perfect for snapping photos and taking in the scenery.

What we really like about this tour is its affordability—at around $28 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to orient yourself and learn a bit about Quebec’s history and culture. Plus, the guided commentary adds value, offering background info that makes each stop more meaningful. The top deck views are definitely a plus, giving you a different perspective than you’d get by walking around.

However, one thing to be aware of is that some reviews mention issues with audio quality and timing, especially during busy traffic hours. If you’re sensitive to interruptions or prefer live narration, this might be a consideration. This tour suits first-timers, those on a tight schedule, or anyone wanting a relaxed overview of Quebec City’s must-see sites.

Whether you want a quick introduction or a convenient way to plan your next steps in the city, this tour is worth considering—just keep in mind the possible hiccups and decide if it fits your style.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At under $30, it’s a cost-effective way to see Quebec City.
• Great Views: Sitting on the top deck provides unique perspectives of the city’s sights.
• Educational Commentary: On-board narration enriches your understanding of the landmarks.
• Flexible Timing: The tour lasts about an hour, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
• Ideal for First-Timers: Perfect for those new to Quebec, offering a broad overview.
• Some Audio Issues: Reviewers mention occasional problems with sound clarity, especially if not familiar with the audio system.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll See

This tour neatly divides Quebec’s sights into two main parts—upper town and lower town—giving you a well-rounded look at what makes this city special.

Starting Point: Close to Château Frontenac

The tour kicks off right by the iconic Château Frontenac, giving you a fantastic first impression of the city. From here, you’ll cruise through the historic streets, getting a sense of both the grandeur and the everyday life of Quebec.

Plains of Abraham

Driving along the Plains of Abraham—a historic battlefield—you’re treated to views of the surrounding towers. This area also forms part of the tour’s drive-by highlights, giving you a sense of Quebec’s past and its open green spaces.

Grande-Allée Street

Next, you pass along Grande-Allée, often lively with cafes, shops, and events. It’s a great spot to get a feel for the city’s vibrant side, and most seem to enjoy seeing it from the bus.

Place d’Youville and the City’s Architecture

Driving through Place d’Youville and its surroundings, you’ll admire Quebec’s beautiful architecture—a mix of old and new, with some impressive buildings along the way.

Parliament Building and Tourny Fountain

The Parliament Building is a highlight, and the tour offers a good glimpse of its stately presence. You’ll also drive past the Tourny Fountain, a popular local landmark.

Lower and Upper Town Exploration

The tour splits its focus equally between Lower Town, with its cobblestone streets and historic charm, and Upper Town, home to the Citadelle and more scenic vistas. This balance allows you to appreciate both the historic richness and the city’s more modern aspects.

Additional Highlights

• Manège Militaire: Recently rebuilt after a fire, this military riding school adds to the historical feel.
• Bassin Louise and Gardens: Scenic views over the city and beautiful green spaces.
• The Citadelle: An important part of Quebec’s defenses with a commanding presence.
• Breathtaking Views: From the bus, you can see the city skyline, historic towers, and lush gardens, making it a visual feast.

What You’ll Experience

Most travelers find the drive itself relaxing, especially when sitting on the top deck with the wind in your hair. The commentary—delivered via earphones—aims to give context to the sights, making it easier to understand Quebec’s history and culture. Some reviews mention that the narration is pre-recorded and not very lively, but others praise guides for their personality and knowledge.

The duration of around 60 minutes is just right for a quick overview, but some reviews note that traffic can extend the trip beyond that. It’s advisable to arrive early at the meeting point to avoid delays, especially in peak hours.

The Sound System and Commentary

While most found the audio system effective, a few critics pointed out that not everyone knew how to use the earphones, leading to missing parts of the narration. If you’re particular about clarity, be sure to ask the driver or guide at the start how to connect your device.

Accessibility and Group Size

With a maximum of 51 travelers, the bus isn’t crowded, and most should find space to relax. It’s a mobile experience, so if you’re worried about mobility, you’ll want to consider your comfort on the bus.

Timing and Weather

The tour is weather-dependent, and poor weather can lead to cancellation or a less enjoyable experience on an open-top bus. The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you some flexibility if the forecast isn’t ideal.

The Value of the Tour

For about $28, this tour packs a lot into a short period. You get to see many of Quebec City’s most important sights without the hassle of walking or driving yourself. For first-time visitors, it’s an excellent orientation tool, helping you to plan which areas to explore more deeply later.

While some reviews mention delays or traffic extending the trip, most agree that the views and commentary compensate for the occasional hiccup. The top deck vantage point is a definite highlight, offering photo opportunities you might miss otherwise.

The tour’s comments reflect a good mix of appreciation and constructive feedback. Many travelers enjoyed the knowledgeable guides and the scenic views, but a few wished for more lively narration or better instructions on audio device use.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience works well for first-timers eager for a broad overview, travelers on a tight schedule who want to maximize sightseeing, or those who prefer a comfortable, seated experience. It’s also suitable for anyone curious to get a quick, scenic introduction to Quebec’s major sights without the physical effort of walking around.

If you’re someone who values engaging guides and lively commentary, be aware that some reviews mention the narration is pre-recorded and somewhat monotone. But if you’re happy with an overview and some lovely views, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Quebec City: Double Decker Express Tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see the city—especially if you’re new or short on time. The top deck views are worth the price alone, and the stops at key landmarks like the Château Frontenac, Plains of Abraham, and Parliament are solid highlights.

While it’s not without its minor flaws—like occasional audio issues and traffic delays—the overall experience is positive. The tour strikes a good balance between comfort, cost, and sightseeing, making it a worthwhile option for many visitors.

If you’re looking for a low-effort way to get oriented or want a relaxing way to take in Quebec’s sights, this bus tour could be a good fit. Just keep in mind your preferences for narration style and be prepared for a bit of city traffic.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the bus experience is generally suitable for most travelers, including families with older children. The short duration and scenic views make it a manageable outing.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour. However, traffic and other factors can extend the trip slightly beyond that.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the same location: 12 Rue Sainte-Anne, Québec, QC G1R 3X3, Canada.

Are earphones provided and how do I use them?
Yes, earphones are included. Some reviews mention that instructions could be clearer, so don’t hesitate to ask the guide if you’re unsure how to connect.

What sights are included?
Main highlights include Old Quebec, the Château Frontenac, Plains of Abraham, Grande-Allée Street, Place d’Youville, Parliament Building, and views of Bassin Louise and the Citadelle.

Can I cancel this tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and it will only be canceled if the weather is poor.

Is the commentary live or pre-recorded?
It’s pre-recorded, which some travelers find less lively. Guides are also available to answer questions if you prefer a more interactive experience.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
No, this is a seated bus tour, so it’s suitable if you prefer to avoid extensive walking.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, some water, and dress appropriately for the weather—deck seating is exposed if you sit on the top deck.

Hopefully, this gives you a clear picture of what to expect from the Quebec City: Double Decker Express Tour. It’s a straightforward, scenic way to get a taste of the city’s highlights without breaking a sweat—perfect if you’re after an easy introduction or need to make the most of a limited timeframe.