Spring in the Canadian province of Quebec is the time of year when the sun peaks out, bringing flowers to colorful life. Summertime means long, warm days filled with outdoor adventures. In autumn, swimsuits give way to cozier attire that’s suitable for refreshing leaf-peeping excursions. Meanwhile, winter ushers in a breathtaking snowy landscape filled with playful toboggan rides and fabulous fests that warm the heart and soul.

Quebec offers something for everyone at every time of year, with vibrant cities like Montreal and Quebec City featuring a wealth of seasonal experiences to suit history buffs, foodies, and adventure seekers alike. For travelers, this means that these charming destinations are a must-visit year-round.
 
From watching the landscape spring to life on a scenic river boat ride to walking in a winter wonderland filled with ice castles, here are the can’t-miss things to do in Quebec in each season.

Savor the Splendors of Spring

Springtime in Quebec is simply magical. Blooming gardens burst into colorful life and mild weather delights, making it the ideal time to stroll through Montreal’s Botanical Garden, explore Old Quebec’s cobblestone streets, and take part in these unforgettable spring activities.

• Sugar Shacks: Experience an integral part of Quebec’s cultural heritage by visiting a sugar shack to learn about traditional Quebecois maple syrup production and indulge in this sweet treat.
• Gardens in Bloom: Beyond botanical gardens, Quebec’s many gardens are a feast for the senses come spring as vibrant colors fill green spaces throughout the province.
• Outdoor Markets: Rhubarb, strawberries, radishes, and other delights reach peak ripeness in springtime, making this the ideal season to explore popular Montreal markets like the Jean-Talon and Atwater.
• River Cruises: Scenic cruises on the St. Lawrence River to Montmorency Falls and Île d’Orléans offer spectacular views and a bounty of springtime hues.

Seek Awesome Adventures in Summer

Summer brings warm weather and exciting new ways to explore Quebec. Visitors and locals alike flock to special events such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival, relish active adventures like hiking in the Laurentians, and take part in ample opportunities to breathe in the fresh air.

• Cycling: Montreal’s extensive bike paths offer seemingly endless opportunities for summertime exploration, while scenic rides along Quebec City’s riverside trails provide a uniquely beautiful view of the city.
• Water-Based Activities: In Montreal, people head for the Old Fort to enjoy zip-lining, pedal boating, and Ferris wheel rides, while in Quebec City, kayaking on the St. Lawrence River is a favorite pastime.
• Outdoor Dining: Tables and chairs line the streets at cafes come summer, offering a delicious and distinctive way to enjoy local specialties like poutine, sugar pie, and other French-Canadian fare.
• Walking Tours: Summer is the perfect season for sightseeing. Explorers can stroll through cobblestone streets and adventure along the historic walls of Quebec City for a dreamy dose of history.

Admire Awe-Inspiring Colors in Autumn

Autumn paints Quebec’s landscapes in fiery hues, making it a prime time for leaf-peeping. Color-seekers can take a road trip to Jacques-Cartier National Park, enjoy harvest season at local vineyards, or enjoy these seasonal delights that offer the best of the fall season.

• Mont-Royal Park: Montreal’s Mont-Royal Park stands at the center of the city, beckoning people far and wide to climb, and those that do are rewarded with jaw-dropping panoramic autumn views.
• Oktoberfest: Germany may be best known for their beer-based fest, but visitors to Quebec City during this raucous season will find a unique version of this popular event that features regional brews and cuisine.
• Apple Picking: Local orchards throughout the providence are the place to be for a fun family activity that allows visitors of all ages to enjoy the season’s freshest produce.
• Halloween Events: Those seeking a look at the spooky side of Quebec City will find plenty of history, and maybe even a few frights, on ghost tours and haunted house visits.

Enjoy Epic Outdoor Activities in Winter

As the days grow shorter and the weather dips below freezing, Quebec transforms into a snowy wonderland. To keep warm throughout the season, travelers take part in active adventures like ice canoeing on the St. Lawrence River, dancing the cold away at the music-centric Igloofest, and cuddling up for these cozy wintertime events.

• Ice Skating: Frozen fun can be found on outdoor ice-skating rinks throughout the province, offering family fun in scenic spots like Place D’Youville, located within the historic walls of Old Quebec.
• Skiing: Hit the slopes at popular ski resorts, or enjoy some of the best cross-country skiing in North America on a network of groomed trails.
• Christmas Markets: Twinkling lights, artisan crafts, and festive treats bring the holiday spirit to life at charming markets that allow visitors to explore local traditions and savor seasonal activities.
• Quebec Winter Carnival: The annual Quebec Winter Carnival is a feast for the eyes with night parades, live concerts, and ice sculptures, including a palace built from more than 2,000 blocks of ice.

Where to Stay

When searching for where to stay in Montreal, travelers should seek out the modern DoubleTree by Hilton Montreal, which offers easy access to the shops and restaurants of Complexe Desjardins, as well as Place des Arts and the scenic cobblestone streets of Old Montreal. Guests can indulge in spa treatments and relax at the indoor pool at this plush retreat that’s perfect for a stay in any season.

Quebec City’s DoubleTree by Hilton Quebec Resort is an excellent warm-weather hotel option as it’s situated near the stunning cascades of Montmorency Falls and the 18-hole championship Golf de la Faune course.

Hilton Quebec‘s heated outdoor rooftop pool makes it an excellent choice for chillier seasons when guests can swim under the snowflakes. Offering a convenient location in the heart of the city, across from Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the hotel boasts spectacular views from every room and an authentic French Quebecois dining experience.

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