Book flights to Quebec

Quebec City is the capital of the province and a major destination for travellers seeking a European atmosphere in North America. Situated on the cliffs of Cap Diamant along the St. Lawrence River, this historic city is the only fortified urban centre north of Mexico. Its strategic location has defined its role as a cultural and political hub for centuries.

The heart of the journey leads to Old Quebec, a district designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors walk past the towering Château Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world, and explore the cobblestone streets of Petit-Champlain. History is preserved within the Citadelle of Quebec and across the Plains of Abraham, where green spaces now cover former battlefields.

A flight to this city offers a discovery of French-Canadian heritage and refined culinary traditions. The atmosphere is defined by a blend of old-world charm and modern northern life, making it a destination for those interested in architecture and history. Whether visiting for the winter festivals or the autumn colours, the city maintains a distinct and tranquil character throughout the year.

High season in Quebec

Quebec enters its most popular phase during the warm summer months and the peak of winter. From June to August, the city has average highs of 25°C, creating an atmosphere where the historic streets of Old Quebec fill with the music of buskers and outdoor diners. Visitors landing at Jean Lesage International Airport find a landscape of lush greenery and a riverfront active with ferries and sailboats. The pace is energetic, driven by major events like the Festival d'été de Québec, which turns the Plains of Abraham into a massive concert venue.

The winter high season, centred around February, is defined by the world-famous Quebec Winter Carnival. Despite temperatures often dropping below -15°C, the city remains lively as residents embrace the cold with ice sculptures, night parades, and canoe races on the St. Lawrence River. The sight of the snow-covered Château Frontenac from the air provides a striking first impression for those arriving during the holidays. This period is characterized by a festive spirit where the smell of woodsmoke and maple taffy fills the crisp air.

Low season in Quebec

Quebec experiences a quieter rhythm during the shoulder months of late autumn and early spring. In November, the rich fall colours fade, and the city prepares for the first snowfall with cool, damp days. This transition period is peaceful, offering a more intimate look at local life as the crowds in the Petit Champlain district thin out. Travellers arriving at this time encounter a city in a state of calm anticipation, where the historic stone architecture is the main focus without the distraction of large festivals.

Spring, particularly April, is a low season marked by the "sugaring off" tradition. While the weather is often unpredictable with a mix of rain and melting snow, the surrounding countryside comes alive at local sugar shacks. In the city, the atmosphere is more relaxed, allowing for quiet walks along the Dufferin Terrace. This season provides a genuine glimpse into the local lifestyle as the community sheds its heavy winter layers and prepares for the return of the summer greenery.

Arrival at the airport and transport to the city

It is the primary gateway for those arriving in the provincial capital, the local air infrastructure provides a direct link between international hubs and the historic heart of the region. Travellers booking a flight to Quebec will typically arrive at a single, well-equipped facility that manages both domestic traffic and seasonal international routes.

Jean Lesage international airport (YQB)

The Jean Lesage International Airport, identified by the code YQB, is located approximately 16 km west of the city centre in the Sainte-Foy borough. As the main hub for the region, it supports a variety of carriers including Air Canada, WestJet, and Air Transat, and has frequent connections to major Canadian cities and sun destinations. The facility consists of a modern, single terminal building designed for efficient passenger flow, making it a convenient arrival point for those on domestic or transborder flights to Quebec.

Upon landing, you can easily reach the city centre using several reliable ground transport methods. The RTC (Réseau de transport de la Capitale) operates public bus services, specifically Route 76 and Route 80, which provide links to the Sainte-Foy train station and the downtown area respectively. A taxi ride to Old Quebec typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes depending on traffic conditions, with vehicles readily available at the designated stand outside the arrivals level. Ride-hailing services also operate at YQB, providing an alternative for direct transport to your final destination in the Quebec City metropolitan area.

Descending toward Jean Lesage International Airport, the winding St. Lawrence River and the green expanses of the Cap Diamant cliffs signal your arrival in a city that feels like a European escape in North America. Once on the ground, the crisp air and the sight of the copper-roofed skyline invite you to explore a destination where centuries of history live in every cobblestone street.

Old Quebec
This fortified district has stone walls and narrow alleys that transport you back to the 17th century. It is the only walled city north of Mexico, offering a dense collection of historic architecture and charming boutiques that reveal the French roots of the continent.

Château Frontenac
Standing tall on the skyline, this grand hotel is the most photographed in the world and defines the city's silhouette for arriving travellers. Its majestic towers and green-patina roofs overlook the river, acting as a constant landmark during your urban explorations.

Dufferin Terrace
This wide wooden boardwalk wrapped around the base of the Château Frontenac provides sweeping views of the water and the surrounding mountains. It is a social hub where the salty breeze from the river meets the sound of local street performers.

Petit Champlain
Located at the base of the cliff, this district contains some of the oldest commercial streets on the continent. The area has a fairy-tale atmosphere with its hanging flower baskets, artisan workshops, and the famous Breakneck Steps.

Place Royale
This quiet square is the site where the city was founded in 1608, surrounded by stone houses that reflect early French colonial style. The Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church sits at the centre, anchoring the space with its simple yet elegant facade.

Montmorency Falls
Located just a short distance from the city centre, these falls reach a height of 83 metres, which is significantly taller than those in Niagara. A suspension bridge over the crest allows you to feel the mist and hear the thunderous power of the water as it crashes toward the river below.

Stepping onto a plane with the historic streets of Quebec as your final destination is a feeling like no other. To find great deals for your next journey, try booking your flights well in advance and staying flexible with your departure dates through the eDreams platform. Frequent travellers can also enjoy additional savings and a smoother booking experience by joining eDreams Prime, making the path to your destination even more rewarding.