FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Québec

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

🛡️ Very Safe💰 Budget: CAD 150/day🚶 Very Walkable☀️ Best: Jun, Aug, Sep

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Saint-Roch

Offers more affordable accommodation, dining, and a vibrant, youthful atmosphere.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Québec

1

Saint-Roch

Budget

Trendy, revitalized urban district with a vibrant mix of shops, eateries, and modern architecture.

solo travelersnightlifefoodiesbudget
  • +Great selection of independent boutiques and cafes
  • +Lively nightlife and diverse dining scene
  • +More affordable accommodation and food options
  • -Less historically significant than Old Québec
  • -Can be noisy at night in some parts
2

Old Québec (Upper Town)

Luxury

Historic European charm with cobblestone streets and iconic landmarks.

first-timerscouplescultureluxury
  • +Incredibly scenic and historic
  • +Abundance of museums and attractions
  • +Excellent fine dining options
  • -Very crowded, especially in summer
  • -Hilly terrain can be challenging for some
3

Old Québec (Lower Town)

Mid-range

Picturesque, artistic, and lively with a bohemian feel along the waterfront.

first-timerscouplesfoodiesculture
  • +Charming cobblestone streets and colorful buildings
  • +Excellent restaurants and boutiques
  • +Flat terrain, easier to walk than Upper Town
  • -Can feel very touristy
  • -Limited hotel options compared to Upper Town
4

Montcalm

Mid-range

Elegant residential area with tree-lined streets and a sophisticated, local feel.

familiescouplesculturedigital nomads
  • +Quieter and more residential
  • +Proximity to major parks and museums
  • +Access to good local restaurants and cafes
  • -Further from the main tourist attractions of Old Québec
  • -Fewer hotel options, more apartments/rentals

Daily Budget (Budget)

CAD 150/day

HI Quebec Hostel dorm bedCAD 40
Bagel lunch from St-Viateur Bagel (Montreal style, but available in Quebec City)CAD 15
Poutine from Chez AshtonCAD 12
Walking within Old Quebec, occasional RTC bus fareCAD 10
Explore the Plains of Abraham (free entry)CAD 0
Visit the Citadelle of Quebec (exterior and grounds)CAD 0
Wander through Quartier Petit ChamplainCAD 0
Window shopping and enjoying the atmosphereCAD 0
Entry to Musée de la Civilisation (check for free evenings/discounts)CAD 17
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Québec

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🚶

Quartier Petit Champlain

FREE

While a popular spot, many tourists miss exploring the quieter side streets and artisan boutiques away from the main thoroughfare. It's the oldest commercial street in North America, known for its charming architecture and unique shops.

streetVieux-Québec
🛍️

Marché du Vieux-Port de Québec

FREE

This vibrant public market showcases the best of Quebec's regional products, from artisanal cheeses and charcuterie to fresh produce and local crafts. It's a fantastic place to sample local flavors and pick up unique souvenirs.

marketVieux-Port
⚠️

1 area to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Québec