How to Get Around Québec City: Transportation Tips for Visitors

Wondering how to get around Québec City during your trip? The good news is that Québec City offers plenty of transportation options, from buses and taxis to the funicular and even scenic bike rides along the river. Whether you’re staying in Old Québec or exploring farther afield, it’s easy to move around and make the most of your visit.

Walking in Québec City: The Best Way to Explore

Walking is definitely the best way to discover Québec City. The Old Town is compact, and most main sights are within easy walking distance, from Château Frontenac to the Quartier du Petit-Champlain. That said, wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a few uphill climbs! The reward is breathtaking views, iconic monuments, and charming streets at every turn. Speaking of hills … the most iconic ways to move between Upper and Lower Town is the funicular! Connecting the Petit-Champlain district with Dufferin Terrace, it saves you the steep climb up Cap Diamant and rewards you with a panoramic view of the St. Lawrence River. It’s fast, scenic, and is worth it if you’re traveling with kids, have mobility issues or after a long day of sightseeing.

RTC Buses: to explore outside the Old Town

Taking the city bus is the most affordable and reliable way to get a bit “off the beaten path”. The Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC) operates a wide network connecting all major areas, including Old Québec and other nice neighbourhoods like Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Montcalm St-Roch, Limoilou, etc.

On the main Métrobus routes (800, 801, 807), buses come every 5–10 minutes during the day. You can pay with exact change when boarding or buy passes at Couche-Tard stores that display the RTC logo. For planning, the RTC Nomade Temps Réel app shows real-time routes and schedules, perfect for visitors who want to explore like locals.

Guide tip 1: if you stay in an hotel for more than 2 nights, you are very likely to be entitled a 3-days pass for free! Check here to see if you hotel is participating.

Guide tip 2: Did you know that Montmorency Fall is accessible by bus? Take Métrobus 800 direction “Terminus Chute-Montmorency” and get off at the last stop. You are right on top of Montmorency Fall!

Taxis and Uber: Flexible Transportation Options

Need to get from your hotel to a restaurant or back after a night out? Taxis are easy to hail in tourist areas, and Uber is available throughout Québec City. Both are convenient, safe, and ideal for short trips or when public transport isn’t running as frequently in the evening.

Guide tip 3: Fare rates are regulated and metered, so make sure your taxi driver is using the meter and displaying the fares in its window. If not, get another taxi.

Train and Intercity Travel: Getting Beyond the City

If you plan to visit other destinations from Québec City, such as Montréal or Charlevoix, the train is a relaxing and scenic option. VIA Rail’s Gare du Palais station, located near the Old Port, connects Québec City to Montréal in about three hours. Intercity bus companies like Orléans Express also offer routes to surrounding regions and nature escapes, perfect for day trips.

Driving in Québec City: What to Know Before You Take your Car

Driving in Québec City can be handy, but parking in Old Québec can be tricky, especially in summer. Public parking lots are located near major attractions such as Place d’Youville, Marché du Vieux-Port, and the Parliament building. Street parking is available but often metered, so check signage carefully to avoid fines. If you’re staying overnight, ask your hotel about on-site or discounted parking, it can save time and hassle.

For Independent Travelers: Bikes and Car Rentals

If you prefer flexibility, try renting an electric bike or using the city’s àVélo bike-sharing system, available across the urban area. Scenic bike paths line the St. Lawrence River and lead to parks and local markets. For longer adventures outside the city, car rentals are available both downtown and at Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport.