In this article, we will look at Where to stay in Quebec City without a car, best areas to stay in Quebec City without a car along with a helpful map, where I stayed in Quebec City, and the best hotels in Quebec City for all budgets.
Québec City is accessible and enjoyable for tourists without the need for a car, particularly in the central and touristy areas. The city’s compact layout and various transportation options make it relatively easy to navigate by alternative means.
The best way to explore the city is on foot. Many parts of Québec City, especially the Old Town (Vieux-Québec), are pedestrian-friendly. You can explore historic sites, shops, and restaurants on foot.
Québec City has an extensive public bus system operated by Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC). You can use buses to reach various tourist attractions. The RTC also operates a frequent bus service called Métrobus, which connects key areas of the city.
Biking can be an excellent way to explore the city, especially during the summer months when the weather is pleasant. The city has a growing network of bike lanes and bike-sharing programs.
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Québec City if you need to cover short distances or prefer a more convenient option.
The Old Québec Funicular is a unique way to travel between the Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and the Lower Town (Basse-Ville), offering scenic views of the city and the St. Lawrence River.
If you’re interested in exploring the region, you can take a cruise on the St. Lawrence River or use the ferry services to reach nearby destinations like Lévis.
Via Rail provides train services connecting Québec City to Montreal and Ottawa. The main train stations are Gare du Palais (Central Station) and Gare de Sainte-Foy.
Québec City offers tourist trolley and hop-on-hop-off bus services, which is convenient for exploring popular attractions and getting narrated tours of the city.
While you’re trying to avoid using your own car, you can still rent a car at the city center or at the Jean Lesage International Airport for specific day trips or activities.
Jean-Lesage International Airport is situated 15 km from Downtown, reachable by public transit and taxi. Route 76 and Route 80 link the airport to the bus and train stations in Sainte-Foy and Saint-Roch in the city center.
Where to stay in Quebec City without a car?
The best areas to stay in Quebec City without a car for tourists are Vieux-Québec (Old Quebec City), Parliament Hill, Old Port (Basse-Ville), Saint-Roch, Saint-Jean-Baptiste, and Montcalm.
These are all central locations that are easily accessible by public transport and are easily explored on foot.
In general, Old Quebec City is the best place to stay in Quebec City for car-free travelers and first-timers. It is the middle of the city that includes the Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville). You’ll be located within walking distance of most attractions, restaurants, and shops.
During my trip to Quebec City, I didn’t rent a car, and booked a hotel in Old Quebec City. It is located within walking distance or a short ride in public transport to major landmarks. I feel very pleasant and comfortable exploring the city on foot!
Map of the best areas and neighborhoods in Quebec City without a car:
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Quebec City. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Quebec City have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
6 Best areas to stay in Quebec City without a car:
1. Old Quebec City (Vieux-Québec)
Old Quebec City (Vieux-Québec) is one of the best areas to stay in Quebec City, especially for first-timers and travelers with no car. It is a pedestrian-friendly area well-connected to Métrobus, making it easy to explore on foot and public transportation.
Old Quebec City is a historic and picturesque district located in the heart of Quebec City. It’s renowned for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, European charm, and rich cultural heritage.
Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is divided into two main parts: Haute-Ville/ Upper Town and Basse-Ville/ Lower Town. You can easily travel between Upper and Lower Town by taking the ride on the Old Quebec Funicular.
Upper Town is home to iconic landmarks like the stunning Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, which is one of the most photographed hotels in the world. The Parliament Building and Citadelle of Quebec are also located here.
You can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding area from the Dufferin Terrace, a beautiful boardwalk overlooking the river.
Stroll along Rue Saint-Jean and Rue Saint-Louis, which are lined with boutiques, shops, and charming cafes. Upper Town offers a range of restaurants, from fine dining establishments to cozy bistros, serving both French and international cuisine.
Explore historic churches like Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral and the Ursuline Convent, as well as museums such as the Musée de la Civilisation.
Lower Town (Basse-Ville) is home to Petit-Champlain, one of the oldest commercial streets in North America and is known for its artisan boutiques, art galleries, and cozy restaurants.
You can find the Place Royale, a historic square where Samuel de Champlain founded Quebec City in 1608. It’s surrounded by charming stone buildings and is a significant historical site.
Historic buffs can visit the Musée de la Place Royale to learn more about the city’s history and culture. The Old Port area offers waterfront dining and outdoor activities, such as bike rentals and riverfront walks.
The iconic hotel, the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Quebec City. It was built in the late 19th century and offers stunning views of the city and the river.
Best places to stay in Old Quebec City without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Clarendon
- Budget ($): Hôtel Marie-Rollet
2. Parliament Hill
Parliament Hill (French: Colline Parlementaire) is an iconic area in Quebec City, located just outside the walls of Old Québec. Due to its central location, it is a great base for car-free holidays in Quebec City.
It is home to important government buildings and landmarks, including the Quebec National Assembly and the historic Plains of Abraham (Plaines d’Abraham) park.
The Plains of Abraham is a historic battlefield that played a significant role in the history of Quebec and Canada. It is now a beautiful urban park where people can enjoy outdoor activities, concerts, and cultural events. The park offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
Fontaine de Tourny, a grand fountain, donated to Quebec City in 2007, stands in front of the Quebec National Assembly building. It is a beautiful piece of public art and has become an iconic symbol of the city.
Grand Allée is a bustling street that runs through the Parliament Hill area. It is lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, and historic buildings, making it a popular spot for dining and leisurely strolls.
Located in the Marie-Guyart Building, the Observatoire de la Capitale offers panoramic views of Quebec City from its observation deck. It’s a great place to get a bird’s-eye view of the city and its surroundings.
The Parliament Hill area is a hub for cultural events and festivals throughout the year. These events often take place on the Plains of Abraham or in nearby squares and parks.
Promenade des Gouverneurs is a scenic boardwalk with a picturesque walk along the cliffs overlooking the St. Lawrence River. It offers views of the river, the Old Quebec district, and the Château Frontenac.
Best places to stay in Quebec City in Parliament Hill without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Hôtel Boutique Ophelia
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Relais Charles-Alexandre
- Budget ($): L’Adresse sur Grande-Allée Lofts
3. Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Saint-Jean-Baptiste is a historic neighborhood located in the heart of Quebec City, making it a great base for travelers with no car. It is known for its vibrant and artistic atmosphere, as well as its rich history and cultural heritage.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste is situated just outside the walls of Old Quebec, making it a central and easily accessible part of the city. It is located on the south side of the Saint Lawrence River.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste is easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation. It’s a great area to explore on foot, with its narrow, winding streets and stunning architecture.
The neighborhood has a long history, dating back to the 17th century when Quebec City was founded. Over the years, it has become a hub for artists, intellectuals, and various cultural movements.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste is home to numerous theaters, art galleries, music venues, and cultural institutions. The area hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating Quebecois culture and creativity.
The area has historic buildings, Victorian houses, and more modern structures. The streets are often lined with colorful row houses and shops, giving the neighborhood a distinctive character.
The neighborhood is a great place for shopping, with boutique stores selling unique and locally crafted goods, antiques, and vintage items.
The neighborhood comes alive at night, with numerous bars and clubs offering entertainment options for those looking to experience Quebec City’s nightlife.
Best places to stay in Saint-Jean-Baptiste without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Auberge J.A Moisan
- Mid-range ($$): Les Lofts St-Vallier – Par Les Lofts Vieux Québec
- Budget ($): Chateau Des Tourelles
4. Saint-Roch
Saint-Roch is located in the central part of the city, just to the west of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) and the historic district. Saint-Roch has a rich history and has undergone significant revitalization and gentrification in recent years.
The neighborhood is well-connected with public transportation, including a Gare du Palais Bus Terminal and a train station (Gare du Palais). It’s also pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.
Saint-Roch is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. You can find art galleries, theaters, and cultural events taking place in the area. It’s also home to L’Impérial Bell, a historic music venue.
Saint-Roch is particularly famous for its shopping district along Rue Saint-Joseph, where you can find a variety of fashion, home goods, and unique products.
The neighborhood is popular for its nightlife. There are plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy live music, dance, and socialize.
Saint-Roch has several parks and public spaces, including Place Jacques-Cartier and Parc Saint-Roch, where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors.
In recent years, Saint-Roch has become a hub for technology and innovation. It’s home to the Espace CDPQ, a business and innovation center, and several tech startups.
Best places to stay in Quebec City in Saint-Roch without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel PUR, Quebec, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Les Lofts St-Joseph – Par Les Lofts Vieux-Québec
- Budget ($): Hotel Royal William, Ascend Hotel Collection
5. Vieux-Port
Vieux-Port, or the Old Port, is a historic district nestled within the heart of Quebec City. This iconic neighborhood is a testament to the city’s rich history, dating back to the 17th century when Samuel de Champlain founded Quebec City, making it one of North America’s oldest European settlements.
Vieux-Port is a place where the past seamlessly blends with the present, offering a unique and picturesque experience for locals and tourists alike.
The streets of Vieux-Port are lined with well-preserved historic buildings, a beautiful mix of French colonial and European influences, featuring cobblestone streets, charming facades, and ornate wrought-iron balconies.
Vieux-Port is located along the St. Lawrence River, offering breathtaking views of the water, especially during sunset. You can take leisurely strolls along the waterfront promenade, where they’ll find parks, sculptures, and benches perfect for relaxation.
Vieux-Port is home to the Naval Museum of Quebec, which delves into the region’s maritime heritage.
Vieux-Port hosts Quebec Winter Carnival, a famous winter celebration that includes ice sculptures, parades, and outdoor activities.
Best places to stay in Quebec City in Vieux-Port without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Hôtel des Coutellier
- Mid-range ($$): Les Lofts St-Paul – Par Les Lofts Vieux-Québec
- Budget ($): Hotel Le Saint-Paul
6. Montcalm
Montcalm is a historic neighborhood located just west of the Old Town and is known for its charming streets, upscale shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Avenue Cartier is the main commercial street in Montcalm. It is lined with shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Montcalm is home to several museums and cultural institutions, including Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec) and Maison Henry-Stuart, which is dedicated to the arts and culture of Quebec.
While Montcalm has a lively commercial district, it’s also a predominantly residential area characterized by tree-lined streets and historic architecture. It’s known for its pleasant and walkable atmosphere.
The neighborhood is well-connected to public transportation, including buses and taxis, making it easy to access other parts of Quebec City.
Best places to stay in Quebec City in Montcalm without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): L’Arvidienne Couette et Café
- Mid-range ($$): Petit Hôtel – Café Krieghoff
- Budget ($): Hotel Le Bloc
You can continue reading more articles about other cities in Canada such as:
- Best areas to stay in Victoria BC without a car
- Best areas to stay in Montreal without a car
- Best areas to stay in Victoria BC without a car
- Best areas to stay in Toronto without a car
In conclusion, Old Quebec City, Parliament Hill, Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Saint-Roch, Vieux-Port, and Montcalm are the best places to stay in Quebec City without a car. Overall, Old Quebec is the best area for first-timers due to its central location and highest concentration of attractions.