Question 1

Is Quebec City or Montreal the capital of Quebec?

Accepted Answer

Quebec City is the capital, even though Montreal is much larger. Quebec City is the historic, walled seat of government; Montreal is the big cultural and business metropolis.

Question 2

Do they speak English in Quebec?

Accepted Answer

French is the official and everyday language. In tourist areas of Montreal and Quebec City most people also speak English, but a few French phrases go a long way and are appreciated.

Question 3

What is Quebec known for?

Accepted Answer

French language and culture, historic walled Quebec City, cosmopolitan Montreal, maple syrup, poutine, winter carnivals, and a distinct European feel.

Question 4

When is the best time to visit Quebec?

Accepted Answer

May–October for warm days (70s°F), festivals, and fall color (late September); February for Quebec City's Winter Carnival and snowy charm. Winters are cold and long.

Question 5

Do Americans need a passport for Quebec?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a valid US passport. No visa or eTA for visits up to 180 days; Quebec borders Vermont, New York, and Maine for easy driving access.

Question 6

Montreal or Quebec City — which should I visit?

Accepted Answer

Both if you can. Montreal is big, diverse, and lively with great food and nightlife; Quebec City is smaller, older, and romantic, with the walled Old Town. They're 2.5 hours apart.

Question 7

How do you get around Quebec?

Accepted Answer

Montreal has an excellent Metro; VIA Rail links Montreal, Quebec City, and Ottawa/Toronto. A car helps for the Laurentians, Charlevoix, and Gaspé regions.

Question 8

Is Quebec expensive?

Accepted Answer

Montreal is more affordable than Toronto or Vancouver, with famously good, reasonable food. The strong US dollar (US$1 ≈ C$1.40) stretches further here.

Question 9

What should I not miss in Quebec?

Accepted Answer

Old Quebec's walls and Château Frontenac, Montreal's Old Port and Mile End, Montmorency Falls, and fall color in the Laurentians or Charlevoix.

Question 10

What food is Quebec known for?

Accepted Answer

Poutine (fries, cheese curds, gravy), maple syrup and sugar-shack meals, Montreal smoked meat and bagels, and tourtière meat pie.

Question 11

Is Quebec safe for visitors?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Montreal and Quebec City are among the safest big cities in North America; standard urban caution at night is enough.

Question 12

Do I tip in Quebec, and is there tax?

Accepted Answer

Yes — tip 15–20% like the US. Expect about 15% in combined sales taxes (GST + Quebec QST) added at the register, not shown on the sticker price.

Question 13

Is tap water safe in Quebec?

Accepted Answer

Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout the province.

Question 14

How many cities in Quebec does lodomap cover?

Accepted Answer

lodomap currently covers 5 cities and towns in Quebec, including Gatineau, Montreal, Quebec City. See the full list in the Cities & Towns sidebar.

Question 15

What is the national capital of Canada?

Accepted Answer

Ottawa is the national capital of Canada.

Quebec

Quebec at a Glance

Info about Quebec

Know Before You Go — Canada