Charlesbourg Travel Guide

Québec City

Outdoor adventure and heritage charm are present side by side in this historic northern region of Québec City.

More than half of Charlesbourg is agricultural or wooded, with recreational opportunities that are practically endless. Take your time to experience the traces of a fascinating history during a visit to Charlesbourg.

Originally founded as a 17th-century Jesuit colony, Charlesbourg has grown and developed over the years, eventually merging with Québec City in 2002. As you explore this livable district, slow down and admire fine examples of French and Québécois architecture from multiple centuries.

Start at Charlesbourg’s southern end, at the iconic Trait-Carré. Appreciate the stylings of this well-preserved historic village, originally built by Jesuits in the shape of a star for ease of defense. Head to the green heart of Trait-Carré for a scenic walk or picnic in the much-loved Parc de la Commune. Varied concerts take place at its bandstand through the summer.

After a break at one of many local cafés and restaurants, continue on to the Moulin des Jésuites, a lovingly restored rustic water mill from the 18th century. Learn about Charlesbourg’s history at the exhibit inside, join a guided walking tour or simply enjoy the mill’s decorative gardens.

Farther north, take a scenic forest walk at Parc des Verveines. Explore sprawling Parc des Moulins, where landscaped gardens and pools lie alongside woodland with trails groomed for hiking and snowshoeing.

For more winter fun, head to one of Charlesbourg’s ski parks. At the non-profit Ski de Fond Charlesbourg, pick from 15 cross-country skiing trails before relaxing at a heated chalet or the restaurant, which is open on weekends.

Charlesbourg is located northwest of Québec City, about a 20-minute drive from the city center and 25-minute drive from the airport. Travel by bus from downtown in about 1 hour. The historic region around Trait-Carré is easily navigated on foot, with the Parc des Moulins about a 20- minute bus ride north from there. Rent a car to best access the ski parks.

Before you leave Charlesbourg, stop for a sweet treat at a boutique chocolate or fudge store.


Popular places to visit


Top hotels in Charlesbourg

DoubleTree by Hilton Quebec Resort

DoubleTree by Hilton Quebec Resort

4 out of 5
7900 Rue du Marigot, Québec City, QC
The price is ₹8,246 per night from 2 Nov to 3 Nov
₹8,246
₹9,813 total
2 Nov - 3 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star golf resort in Québec City. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a golf course. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,451 reviews)
The room is clean. Staff was really welcoming and helpful.

Reviewed on 16 Oct 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Quebec Resort
Hotel Classique

Hotel Classique

3.5 out of 5
2815, Boulevard Laurier, Québec City, QC
The price is ₹7,803 per night from 2 Nov to 3 Nov
₹7,803
₹9,285 total
2 Nov - 3 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Québec City. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8/10 Very Good! (3,159 reviews)
The hotel staff were accommodating, well informed, friendly and professional. My only complaint was that the shower floor was extremely slippery when wet.

Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025

Hotel Classique
Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

4.5 out of 5
1 rue des Carrieres, Québec City, QC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ₹18,012 per night from 11 Nov to 12 Nov
₹18,012
₹23,958 total
11 Nov - 12 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this spa hotel in Québec City. Enjoy a full-service spa, 3 restaurants and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (2,565 reviews)
So pleasant!

Reviewed on 19 Oct 2025

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
 Hôtel Palace Royal Centre-Ville par JARO

Hôtel Palace Royal Centre-Ville par JARO

4 out of 5
775 Honoré-Mercier Ave, Québec City, QC
The price is ₹9,994 per night from 2 Nov to 3 Nov
₹9,994
₹11,893 total
2 Nov - 3 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Québec City. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), room service and a fitness centre. Our guests praise the restaurant ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (3,453 reviews)
Loved everything about this hotel & would definitely stay again in the future!

Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025

Hôtel Palace Royal Centre-Ville par JARO
L'Hôtel Québec par JARO

L'Hôtel Québec par JARO

4 out of 5
3115, avenue des Hôtels, Québec City, QC
The price is ₹8,108 per night from 2 Nov to 3 Nov
₹8,108
₹9,649 total
2 Nov - 3 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly hotel in Québec City. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,210 reviews)
Great for families. So many things to do with kids. They had bouncy castles as a special event too. Pool in tropical setting with hot tub and splash pad were great. Food at restaurant was also reasonable.

Reviewed on 20 Oct 2025

L'Hôtel Québec par JARO
Hôtel Plaza Québec par JARO

Hôtel Plaza Québec par JARO

4 out of 5
3031 boulevard Laurier, Québec City, QC
The price is ₹8,034 per night from 2 Nov to 3 Nov
₹8,034
₹9,560 total
2 Nov - 3 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Québec City. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,952 reviews)
Service A1 , accuil parfait et courtois

Reviewed on 16 Oct 2025

Hôtel Plaza Québec par JARO
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Other neighbourhoods around Charlesbourg

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Les Rivières

Historical sites, coffee shops and shopping highlight some of the noteworthy features of Les Rivières. Make a stop by Les Galeries de la Capitale or Mega Parc while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Les Rivières
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Beauport

4/5(2 area reviews)

The ample dining options and enchanting waterfalls are top of the list for many visitors to Beauport. A stop by Montmorency Falls Park or Saint Lawrence River might round out your trip.

Beauport
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Vieux-Limoilou

Vieux-Limoilou might not have many top sights, but Quebec Cruise Terminal and Vidéotron Centre are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Vieux-Limoilou
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La Cité-Limoilou

4.5/5(10 area reviews)

La Cité-Limoilou is a destination visitors seek out for its fascinating museums, great live music and charming cafes. You might also want to check out attractions like Quebec Cruise Terminal or Vidéotron Centre while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

La Cité-Limoilou
Parliament Building which includes heritage architecture, a garden and a sunset

Centre-Ville

Centre-Ville is popular for its live music, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Quebec Cruise Terminal or Grand Theatre of Quebec.

Centre-Ville
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Saint-Roch

4.5/5(5 area reviews)

Saint-Roch is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Marina Saint-Roch or The Museum of L'Isle-aux-Grues.

Saint-Roch


Charlesbourg Travel Guide