Getting to and Around Quebec City: A No-Car Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Wondering how to actually get to Quebec City—and then how to get around once you’re there without a car, confusion, or a suitcase disaster? You’re not alone.

Travel guides often focus on what to see and where to eat (which is great!), but they skip the part where you’re standing at the airport wondering if Uber exists here or how steep the hills actually are.

For first-time visitors—especially if you’re car-free or just trying to avoid travel chaos—getting to and around Quebec City can feel like one big question mark.

I flew into the airport, used taxis, Uber (when it showed up), walked miles through hilly streets, hopped on tour buses, and even spent four days road-tripping to Saguenay in a Sprinter van. So yes—I tested basically every option short of dog sled.

If you want the real story on how to arrive smoothly and explore without a rental car (or a panic attack), you’re in the right place. Let’s make this easy.

1. Getting to Quebec City (Without the Stress)

Flying into Quebec City (YQB Airport)

Quebec City’s airport is small, clean, and calm—which is honestly refreshing. I flew into Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) and was out the doors in under 30 minutes. No chaos, no confusing terminals, and no passport-stamping drama.

It’s about 16 km (10 miles) from the Old Town, so you’ll need to get into the city somehow. Here’s what you need to know:

• Taxi – There’s a flat rate of around $30 CAD to downtown. No negotiating. Just walk outside and hop in.
• Uber – Technically available, but not always reliable. I used it once, waited 10 minutes, and honestly felt lucky.
• Shuttle – Best for hotels outside the Old Town. If you’re arriving late or want someone waiting with your name on a sign, pre-booking is your move.

No need to speak fluent French here—“bonjour” and your hotel name will do just fine.

Coming from Montreal to Quebec City

Most travellers (and most search traffic) come from Montreal—and for good reason. It’s an easy city-to-city connection, and you’ve got options.

If you’re not totally convinced Quebec City’s worth the stop, especially if you’re already visiting Montreal, I’ve shared some thoughts that might help you decide whether Quebec City is the right fit for your kind of trip.

My take?

Skip the car and take the train.

• VIA Rail – This is my favourite. It’s about 3.5 hours, comfortable, scenic, and drops you right near the Old Town. You can book online, choose your seat, and bring your own snacks (plant-based picnic, anyone?).
• Orléans Express (Bus) – Slightly cheaper, still comfortable, and runs multiple times a day. It’s a good backup if train prices spike.
• Driving – It’s doable in about 2.5 hours, but parking in Quebec City is a pain. Narrow streets, steep hills, and fees that’ll eat into your poutine budget. I didn’t bother, and I don’t think you need to either—unless you’re doing a wider road trip.

Coming from the U.S.? Here’s the Lowdown

You can fly, drive, or take a train-bus combo depending on where you’re starting. If you’re used to big-city transit systems or wide-open highways, Quebec City might feel a bit quirky—but it’s manageable.

• Flying in: You’ll probably connect through Montreal or Toronto. Direct flights from NYC, Boston, and Newark pop up, but they’re seasonal.
• Driving from the U.S.: Quebec City is about 6–7 hours from Boston, or 9 from New York City. It’s scenic, but you’ll hit tolls and border queues. Bring ID, snacks, and patience.
• No-car route: Fly to Montreal, then take the train to Quebec City. Easiest, smoothest, least-likely-to-make-you-swear option.

Arriving by Cruise Ship: Getting Into Quebec City from the Port

Quebec City is a popular stop on Canada–New England cruise routes, especially in autumn when the foliage along the St. Lawrence River steals the show. If you’re arriving by cruise ship, you’re in luck—the city’s one of the easiest to explore right from the port.

Your ship will likely dock at Port de Québec, which is conveniently located just below Old Quebec. From there, it’s a 5–10 minute walk to some of the city’s most iconic spots:

• Rue du Petit-Champlain
• Place Royale
• The funicular to Upper Town
• Château Frontenac & Dufferin Terrace

Good news:

• No taxi or shuttle needed
• No need to book a tour unless you want to
• The city is walkable straight off the ship

If you’re only in town for a few hours, consider:

• Booking a small-group walking tour that starts near the terminal
• Following a self-guided version of my 2 Days in Quebec City Itinerary—just cherry-pick the top sights that fit your schedule

Tip: Wear good shoes and bring a bottle of water. The streets are charmingly uneven, and there’s a lot to see in a short window.

2. Do You Need a Car in Quebec City?

Short answer? No.
Long answer? Still no—unless you’re planning to leave town.

Quebec City is one of the most walkable cities in North America, especially if you’re staying in or near Old Quebec. The main attractions, cafés, museums, shops, and scenic spots are all clustered within a few steep, charming blocks. A car would honestly just get in the way.

I didn’t rent one, and I got around just fine using:

• Taxis and Uber (limited, but worked when needed)
• Public buses
• Tour buses for further-out spots
• And a lot of walking—so pack comfortable shoes, especially if you’re not used to hills and cobblestones.

Why a car is more trouble than it’s worth:

• Parking is a nightmare. Expensive, limited, and not something you want to be hunting for after climbing Breakneck Stairs.
• Old Quebec’s streets weren’t made for cars. Narrow lanes, pedestrian-only zones, and lots of one-ways.
• Most of what you want to see is within walking distance. Seriously, unless you’re heading to somewhere like Montmorency Falls or doing a countryside trip, leave the car.

When it might be worth having a car:

• You’re visiting in winter and want to stay warm between spots (though I’d still argue for a taxi).
• You’re doing a longer road trip and planning to explore areas like Charlevoix, Île d’Orléans, or the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region (like I did on my press trip).
• You’re travelling with limited mobility and prefer not to rely on public transport or walking.

Otherwise? Save yourself the hassle. Quebec City is best explored on foot, at your own pace, with no parking app stress involved.

3. Getting Around Quebec City (Without a Car)

Once you’re in the city, getting around is surprisingly easy—as long as you’re prepared for a few hills and don’t mind earning your steps. Quebec City rewards wandering. It’s not a place to rush through; it’s one of those rare cities that actually feels better on foot.

Walking

Let’s be honest—you’ll be walking a lot.

Old Quebec is compact but full of levels: Lower Town (like Rue du Petit-Champlain) and Upper Town (Château Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace, etc.) are connected by a series of stairs, hills, and the funicular (more on that in a sec).

Expect cobblestones, inclines, and the occasional shortcut that feels more like a stairwell than a street.

Pack comfortable shoes. No, really—this is not the time to test new sandals.

If you’re plant-based or looking for low-key food stops, this is actually a bonus—you’ll be passing cafés and vegan-friendly spots constantly.

Public Transport (RTC)

Quebec City’s bus system—RTC (Réseau de transport de la Capitale)—is clean, safe, and very doable if you plan a bit.

What you need:

• RTC Nomade app – For real-time bus schedules and route planning
• Day Pass – Ideal if you plan to bus-hop. Get one from convenience stores or terminals.
• Popular Routes:
  • #800 and #801 are the main workhorses and hit most of the key areas.

I used the bus to reach a few farther spots, and it was reliable—just give yourself buffer time if you’re on a schedule.

Bonus: Most drivers are friendly, and signage is bilingual (French/English), so even if your French is patchy, you’ll be fine.

The Funicular (a shortcut disguised as a tourist attraction)

If you’re travelling between Lower and Upper Town and want to skip the stairs, the Old Quebec Funicular is a charming little cable car that connects Rue du Petit-Champlain with Dufferin Terrace.

• Costs around $4 CAD one-way
• Runs regularly during the day
• Great views over the river on the way up

I used it once just for the novelty—and to give my legs a break after too many poutine-fuelled climbs.

Taxis, Uber & Getting a Lift When You Need One

Taxis:

• Easy to hail in busy areas or book via the Taxi Coop app
• Flat fare from the airport, metered elsewhere
• Reliable for early mornings or rainy evenings

Uber:

• Technically available, but spotty.
• I used it twice: once it came in 5 minutes, once I waited over 20. Have a backup.

For most people, taxis are the more dependable choice here—especially in Old Quebec where rideshare drivers can get a bit lost in the maze of narrow streets.

Tours & Day Trips

Want to see something outside the core (like Montmorency Falls or Île d’Orléans) without renting a car?

• Join a small-group sightseeing tour—several leave from near Château Frontenac and include hotel pickup.
• Bonus: Some are walking or eco-focused, which fits better with a no-car, low-impact travel style.

I joined a press trip that went out to Saguenay in a Sprinter van. Not something everyone does, but it showed me just how much you can see in Quebec without ever touching a steering wheel.

No-Car Friendly Tours I Recommend

If you’re not renting a car but still want to explore beyond Old Quebec, these tours are perfect:

• Île d’Orléans Half-Day Tour – Scenic, local food, transport included
• Montmorency Falls + Sainte-Anne Tour – Easy, no hiking required
• Old Quebec Walking Tour – Great intro for first-timers

For something a little different—and a lot more meaningful—you can easily visit the Wendake Indigenous community just outside the city without needing a car.

I took a mix of these and found them helpful for seeing more of the city without figuring out bus transfers or hilly walks.

4. Quick Tips for a Smooth Trip

These are the kinds of things I wish someone had told me before I arrived—little details that make a big difference, especially if you’re plant-based, car-free, or travelling solo.

Stay Connected

Install the RTC Nomade app for bus schedules, and grab an Airalo eSIM if you’re visiting from abroad—it’s affordable, reliable, and avoids that dreaded post-holiday phone bill.

Bring Good Shoes (Seriously)

Quebec City is a vertical experience. Between the cobbles, stairs, and sloped streets, your ankles are going to work. Don’t underestimate how tiring “walkable” can be if you’re not prepared.

Pack Snacks (Especially If You’re Vegan)

Plant-based options are growing, but don’t assume you’ll find them everywhere—especially in smaller neighbourhoods or on day trips. Keep a snack bar or fruit in your bag, just in case.

Get Oriented Early

Do a walking tour on your first morning or afternoon. It makes everything else easier to navigate and gives you just enough context to make the rest of your trip more meaningful.

Don’t Stress the Language

Yes, it’s French. But in the Old Town, most people switch to English without blinking. Just lead with “bonjour” and ask nicely. You’ll be fine.

Not Everything Is Close—And That’s Okay

Give yourself buffer time if you’re catching a bus or tour. Google Maps isn’t always spot-on here, and you’ll want a few minutes to pause for a photo or get distracted by a bakery (it happens).

FAQs: Getting Around Quebec City Without a Car

Plan Your Next Step

Now that you’ve got the logistics sorted for getting to and around Quebec City, it’s time to actually enjoy the city. No car required, no stress needed.

→ Read my 2 Days in Quebec City Itinerary to see exactly how I’d explore Quebec City on foot—with walking routes, local spots I actually visited, and what I’d skip next time.

If you’ve got a bit more time to work with, there are ways to slow down and explore a few corners of Quebec City that most visitors never reach.

Because the best part of travel? Isn’t the getting there. It’s what you do once you’ve arrived.

More Articles to Help You Plan Your Trip to Québec City

• Is Quebec City Worth Visiting? What You Need to Know
• 2 Days in Quebec City Itinerary to Make the Most of Your Time
• 4 Days in Quebec City Itinerary: Complete Guide
• The Best Vegan Friendly Food in Québec City
• What to Bring to Québec: The Ultimate Packing Guide
• Getting to and Around Quebec City: A No-Car Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors