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How to Get to Quebec

How to Get to Quebec

Quebec Quebec, Canada Travel Guide

Air Travel to Quebec City

Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport YQB

YQB is the main airport, approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) west of the central business district Old Quebec.

Airlines & Routes

  • Airlines: Air Canada, Porter Airlines, Pascan Aviation, Air Transat, WestJet, Aa, United Airlines, and PAL Airlines serve YQB.
  • Routes: Regular domestic flights to major Canadian cities, including Montreal (YUL), Toronto (YYZ), and Ottawa (YOW).
  • Seasonal international flights are accessible to select destinations like Paris, The Venice of america, Orlando, and Cancun.

Flight Availability

Direct international flights to YQB are limited. Most travelers from abroad connect through major Canadian hubs like Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) or Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ).

Price Fluctuations

  • Flight prices generally increase during Quebec City's high seasons: summer, fall foliage, and during the Quebec Winter Carnival.
  • Limited international routes may operate only seasonally, often during peak tourist periods.
  • Check Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for deals.

Airport Facilities

YQB features a range of facilities and services, including restaurants, coffee houses, shops, duty-free shopping, and currency exchange services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.

Public Bus RTC

The Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC) offers bus service by the airport. Route 78 or 80 takes you to a transfer point for ways leading downtown. Cost: CAD $3.75 (cash) or CAD $3.25 (Rameau card). Duration: 30-45 minutes.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminal. A fixed rate of CAD $38.50 applies for trips to the city center Quebec City. Uber operates in Quebec City and offers rides from the airport. Check the app for current fare estimates.

Other Airport Transfers

Car Rentals

  • Major car hire companies (Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National) have desks at the airport for convenient pick-up.
  • A valid driver's license and a major credit card are needed.
  • Winter tires are mandatory in Quebec for passenger vehicles from December 1 to March 15.
  • Compare choices at DiscoverCars.com.

Hotel Shuttles

  • Some hotels feature shuttle services.
  • Confirm with your lodging before arrival.
  • A comfortable transfer option.
  • Pre-booking is advisable for hotel shuttles.

Land Border Notes from USA

Documentation

A valid passport is needed. While an eTA is not for land entry, documentation of any previously issued eTA for flying helps.

Funds & Travel

You may show proof of sufficient funds plus go back/onward travel plans.

Crossings

Main crossings near Quebec City are Stanstead/Derby Line or Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle/Champlain. Be prepared for potential queue times.

Land Travel to Quebec City

Train Connections

VIA Rail Canada, Canada's national passenger rail service, operates to and from Quebec City's Gare du Palais station.

Routes & Comfort

  • Regular service connects Quebec City to Montreal (approximately 3.5 hours).
  • Further connections to Ottawa, Toronto, and other major Canadian cities.
  • VIA Rail travel features comfortable seating and scenic views.

Long-Distance Bus

The bus terminal, adjacent to the train station, serves as the main hub for long-long-distance coaches.

Orléans Express

  • Orléans Express is the main intercity bus provider in Quebec.
  • Regular service to Montreal (approximately 3 hours), Ottawa, and various other cities within Quebec.
  • Bus travel is often a more economical option than train travel.

Self-Driving Information

Roads in Quebec are generally well-maintained. However, winter driving can be challenging due to snow and ice.

Requirements

  • Winter tires are compulsory in Quebec for passenger vehicles from December 1 to March 15.
  • You must have a valid driving's license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-Canadian license holders.
  • The minimum age for hiring a car is typically 21 or 25, with potential surcharges for drivers under 25.

Road & Parking Notes

Quebec has strict drunk driving laws. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h). Exercise caution and watch for wildlife, particularly in the countryside.

Parking in Old Quebec

  • Parking is expensive and minimal in Old Quebec.
  • Consider park-and-ride options on the outskirts of the city if you're going to drive.
  • Road conditions: Cobblestone streets in Old Quebec call for caution.

Driving Safety

  • Roads are generally good. Quebec has strict drunk driving laws.
  • Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h).
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Exercise caution and watch for wildlife, especially in rural areas.
  • Plan extra travel time during winter because of possible weather conditions.
  • Quebec has strict impaired driving laws.

Sea & River Arrivals

Cruise Port Overview

The Port of Quebec City hosts numerous cruise ships, particularly in the summer and fall foliage seasons.

Port Details

  • Conveniently located near Old Quebec.
  • Close enough to stroll to many attractions.
  • The dedicated the passenger terminal features passenger services.

Québec-Lévis Ferry

This ferry connects Old Quebec (at Rue des Traversiers) with the urban area of Lévis on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River.

Ferry Details

  • Duration: Approximately 15 minutes.
  • Cost: Around CAD $4.10 per adult for a foot passenger, one way.
  • Frequency: Operates year-round with more often service in summer.

River Transportation

Beyond the Québec-Lévis ferry, no regular public river transportation exists for tourism within the city. Private companies offer occasional scenic cruises on the St. Lawrence River during warmer months.

Seaport Immigration

Cruise passengers arriving from international destinations undergo standard Canadian customs and immigration procedures at the Dock of Quebec City terminal upon disembarkation.

Land Connections

Taxis, public buses, and shuttle buses are available directly outside the the passenger terminal. Many areas of Old Quebec are walkable from the port. Public buses (RTC) serve the two Quebec City and Lévis sides of the ferry terminal, covering local transit networks.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures & Timing

No specific exit fees are charged for departing travelers from Canada. Airfare often includes various taxes and fees as a portion of your ticket price.

Airport Departures

  • Arrive at Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) 2-ARRIVE 3 hours early for international flights.
  • 1.5-TWO hours for domestic flights flights.
  • This grants ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.

Train/Bus Departures

Gare du Palais (Train/Bus Station) features waiting areas, restrooms, plus few food options.

Station Departures

  • Arrive at Gare du Palais 30-60 minutes before your scheduled train or bus departure.
  • This grants time for boarding and finding your seat.
  • Check in online where possible to save time.

General Departure Advice

Security Screening

Be aware of security screening requirements for liquids and electronics.

Online Check-in

Checking in online for flights, trains, or buses saves time at the terminal.

Final Confirmation

Confirm your departure times and transportation to the airport or train station the day before you leave. This prevents last-minute surprises.

Final Checks

Confirm your departure times and transportation to the airport or station the day before you leave. This avoids last-minute surprises.