Québec City has an up-close-and-personal vibe to it, giving it the feel of a big village more than a grand metropolis. The city’s small-scale transport options reflect this mentality.
Weather plays a role in how locals navigate the city. In summer, the hilly streets and abundance of staircases make for good exercise. In winter, when the roads, sidewalks, and roofs fill with snow and ice, walking can feel like an obstacle course. Buses are a warm alternative, and a go-to choice for commuters throughout the year.
Parts of Québec City are under construction for a tramway that is scheduled to open in 2028 – and it’s a tad controversial among the locals. (Personally, I’m quite excited about it.) In the meantime, here are the best ways to get around Québec City like a local.
The city’s layout makes it easy for able-bodied travelers to navigate on foot. This is, in my opinion, the best way to explore Québec City. In the Old Town, the houses and buildings are adorned with interesting embellishments and design details, rewarding slow strollers who stop to admire the streetscape. Never look down when walking around, since you are sure to miss something intriguing. The historic architecture can be breathtaking at times, and you may find yourself overcome with the desire to take photographs from all angles. I highly recommend snapping away – just be aware of your surroundings and avoid blindly stepping into the street and inadvertently blocking traffic.
December tends to be a rainy month in Québec City, which means layers of ice begin to accrue on rooftops, sidewalks and streets. Soon, the snow arrives (this is Canada, after all), and the art of walking upright becomes more of a challenge – especially given the hilly nature of Old Québec’s streets. Québecers are a tough lot, though, and view walking in winter as ideal exercise: you’ll spot them on the streets in puffy winter jackets, snow pants and boots with spikes. When the air is especially crisp or snow is whipping around, many will don ski goggles as well. As someone who has fallen and dislocated a shoulder, I highly recommend wearing crampons in winter. (I now own boots with them built in.)
Québec City can be a challenge if you have mobility issues, especially Old Québec, where shops and restaurants often have stairs and ramps are scarce. Don’t let that deter you from visiting, though: Québecers want you to enjoy their city as much as they do, and they’ll often help when you’re in need of assistance. The fully accessible funicular is a fun way to travel from Petit-Champlain to the Terrasse Dufferin (and the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac). Have your travel companion go inside and ask to use the elevators and they staff will be happy to assist.
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