by Turo
posted on March 14, 2025
Quebec City is gorgeous in the winter. Snow blankets the cobblestone streets, historic buildings glow under twinkling lights, and the chill in the air makes every warm café and restaurant even more inviting.
But winter in Quebec City is also a season packed with adventure. From frozen waterfalls and thrilling slides to world-famous festivals, you’ll find a ton of fun ways to embrace the cold.
Here are the top five things to do in Quebec City during winter!
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- The magic of Hôtel de Glace
- Explore Montmorency Falls
- The world-famous Quebec Winter Carnival
- Hit the slopes at Mont-Sainte-Anne
- The ice toboggan ride at Terrasse Dufferin
- FAQs about visiting Quebec City in winter
- Hit the road and see the top attractions in Quebec City
What to do in Quebec City: winter activities you won’t want to miss
Wondering what to do in Quebec City this winter? The city is packed with winter activities that highlight its history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
The magic of Hôtel de Glace
Every winter, just outside Quebec City, the Hôtel de Glace rises from the snow – a stunning hotel built entirely of ice. As the only ice hotel in North America, it’s a must-see for visitors looking for a truly unique winter activity in Quebec city.
Why it’s great
From its dazzling sculptures to glowing ice chandeliers, the Hôtel de Glace is a work of art. Whether you’re touring for the day or spending the night, it’s one of the most unforgettable winter experiences in the world.
Practical tips
Day tours are available, but overnight stays should be booked in advance. The hotel stays at -5°C (23°F) inside, so dress in thermal layers. If you’re just stopping by, grab a drink at the ice bar!
How to get there
The Hôtel de Glace is about a 30-minute drive from Old Quebec at Village Vacances Valcartier. Renting an SUV with all-wheel drive capabilities with Turo makes handling the winter conditions easier and gives you plenty of space to pack all of your warm gear.
Explore Montmorency Falls
Just minutes outside Quebec City, Montmorency Falls transforms in winter as its powerful cascade freezes into a towering wall of ice. It’s even higher than Niagara Falls, and when temperatures drop, massive icicles form along the cliffs.
Why it’s great
The mist from the falls coats the surrounding cliffs in layers of ice, forming a massive frozen structure known as the “Sugar Loaf.” Cross the suspension bridge for incredible panoramic views or, if you’re adventurous, you can even try ice climbing!
Practical tips
The best views are from the suspension bridge or the cable car, which runs year-round. If you’re visiting after fresh snowfall, the surrounding trails offer beautiful winter hikes with fewer crowds.
How to get there
Montmorency Falls is a 15-minute drive from Downtown Quebec City, with parking available near the visitor center. If you’re flying in, book your Quebec City rental car with Turo and have it ready for pickup at Quebec – Jean Lesage International Airport, so you can start your winter adventure as soon as you land!
The world-famous Quebec Winter Carnival
Every February, Quebec City transforms into a giant winter festival, where ice sculptures, night parades, and outdoor celebrations bring the city to life. The Quebec Winter Carnival is the largest winter festival in the world!
Why it’s great
The carnival is a nonstop celebration of winter, with events happening across the city. Ice carving competitions, snow slides, and traditional Québécois music create an unforgettable atmosphere. The night parades along Grande Allée light up the streets with colorful floats and live performances.
Practical tips
The festival runs for two weeks in early February, with major events on the first two weekends. Festival passes give you access to most activities, but popular events like the ice canoe race and Bonhomme’s palace can get crowded.
How to get there
The carnival takes place throughout Old Quebec, a UNESCO world heritage site, with major events centered around Grande Allée and Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale with busy streets and limited parking. Compact, sport cars make city driving a breeze, while models from BMW, Nissan, and Toyota give you smooth handling and quick maneuverability in tight spaces.
Hit the slopes at Mont-Sainte-Anne
Just outside Quebec City, Mont-Sainte-Anne is a dream destination for skiers and snowboarders. With 71 runs, views of the St. Lawrence River, and night skiing, it’s a great place to spend a winter day no matter your experience level.
Why it’s great
The mountain gets great snow all season, and there’s a mix of easy, intermediate, and advanced terrain. If you want a change of pace, there’s also cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and a terrain park.
Practical tips
Weekdays are less crowded, and night skiing is a fun way to extend your day on the slopes. Rentals and lessons are available on-site.
How to get there
Mont-Sainte-Anne is a 40-minute drive from Quebec City. A sports car or luxury car rental with Turo can make the trip even more fun! BMW, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz all have models that are great for the drive and have space for all your gear.
The ice toboggan ride at Terrasse Dufferin
For one of the most popular things to do in Quebec City in winter, head to Terrasse Dufferin and ride the historic wooden toboggan slide. This track has been sending riders speeding down the hill since 1884, reaching up to 70 km/h (43 mph)!
Why it’s great
The toboggan slide is a fast, thrilling ride that’s fun for all ages. The views from the top are some of the best in Quebec City, and if you want to warm up afterward, the area is lined with cozy cafés where you can grab a hot drink.
Practical tips
Tickets are super affordable, and you can buy multiple rides if you want to go again. The slide runs from December through March, depending on the weather.
How to get there
Terrasse Dufferin is in Old Quebec, just outside Château Frontenac, but parking near the historic district can be tricky. Tesla and other electric vehicle drivers can take advantage of nearby charging stations to explore the city without worrying about your battery!
FAQs about visiting Quebec City in winter
Where is Quebec City?
Quebec City, the capital of the province of Quebec, sits along the St. Lawrence River in eastern Canada. This beautiful city is easily accessible by air, with Quebec City International Airport offering direct flights from major Canadian and international cities. It’s also just a three-hour drive from Montreal, making it a great road trip destination.
Renting a car with Turo gives you the freedom to explore Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls, and Mont-Sainte-Anne at your own pace. With flexible pick-up, drop-off, and delivery options, you can find the perfect winter-ready vehicle for you!.
What are winters like in Quebec City?
Winters in Quebec City are cold and snowy, but that won’t slow you down! Temperatures usually range from -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F), with frequent snowfalls transforming the city into a winter wonderland everywhere you look.
Where is the winter festival in Quebec City?
The Quebec Winter Carnival takes over Old Quebec, with events happening along Grande Allée, Place Royale, and La Citadelle de Quebec. Highlights include Bonhomme’s ice palace, night parades, ice canoe races, and snow sculpture competitions. for the best view of it all, head to Observatoire de la Capitale, the city’s highest observation deck.
Is Quebec City worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely! Quebec City is at its most charming in the winter, with twinkling lights, snowy rooftops, and endless seasonal activities. From racing down the Terrasse Dufferin toboggan slide to exploring frozen waterfalls, there’s something for everyone.
What’s the best type of car for a Quebec City road trip in the winter?
Winter tires are required by law in Quebec from December 1 to March 15, but when you rent a car in Quebec City with Turo, you always get a vehicle equipped with tires that meet local regulations. For day trips to Mont-Sainte-Anne or Montmorency Falls, an SUV is the best choice for snowy roads, and a minivan will give you plenty of room for the family and your luggage.
Hit the road and see the top attractions in Quebec City
Quebec City in the winter is full of adventure, history, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re here for the festivals, the outdoor activities, or the cozy winter charm, it’s the perfect place to embrace the season.
Book a rental car with Turo and find the perfect car for your winter road trip. With flexible pick-up and drop-off options, you can get behind the wheel and make the most of every moment in Quebec City!
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this adventure into a reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just love to travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
