Author: Anne-marie

Ideally situated in Old Quebec, Le Capitole Hôtel is the perfect place to spend an unforgettable day enjoying a premium combination of delicious food and wonderful entertainment. Here are eight recommendations to make the most of your stay:

1. Wake up slowly in your room

As you lounge in your bed, appreciate its comfort as well as the natural light streaming in from the large windows. Savour the moment to sleep in and enjoy some time for yourself or together with that special someone.

2. Treat yourself to a romantic breakfast in bed

Order a generous breakfast and enjoy it in bed. French croissants, seasonal fruit and a variety of hot dishes are available to you; everything you need to start the day off right.

3. Stroll around historic Old Quebec

After breakfast, explore Old Quebec on foot. Visit the parliament buildings, the Place Royale, the Château Frontenac, the historic fortifications, and that’s only the beginning. Let yourself be transported to another time by the city’s rich culture and architecture.

4. Enjoy Italian-style alfresco dining

For lunch, head to the terrace of the Il Teatro restaurant. Enjoy refined Italian cuisine while basking in the sunshine and unique atmosphere of the Carré des spectacles.

5. Spend a relaxing afternoon at the pool

Back at the hotel, treat yourself to a moment to relax and refresh at the pool on the 9^th floor. Enjoy the terrace to unwind, read a good book or simply take in the breathtaking view of the city.

6. Take a culinary journey to the heart of Asia

In the evening, experience a dinner of discovery at the BŌ Cuisine d’Asie restaurant. Its talented chefs offer Asian-inspired dishes made with fresh, delicious local ingredients that will take you on a journey without ever leaving your table.

7. Take in a show at the Théâtre Capitole

Continue your evening with a show at the Théâtre Capitole. Whether it’s a musical, concert or comedy show, the variety of programs on hand are sure to make for an entertaining and unforgettable evening.

8. Experience cocktails with view at the Clubby bar

After the show, end the day in style at the Clubby bar. You can sip creative cocktails in a casual chic atmosphere. Whether you prefer an updated classic or an original creation, our mixologists will surprise you with bold, delicious concoctions.

Back in your room, enjoy a final peaceful moment while admiring the lights of the city at night before drifting off to sleep to dream of your perfect day.

Old Quebec is an open-air museum, where every alleyway and façade tells a story. Beyond the beaten track, many hidden gems await curious visitors. Here are a few places to start:

1. Rue du Trésor

This small alley off rue Sainte-Anne is an open-air art gallery. Local artists exhibit their work here, adding a touch of colour and creativity to this cobblestone alley steeped in history. In the summer, you can even have your portrait painted by artists, and take home a beautiful souvenir of your visit!

Credit: Caroline Fournier

2. Gérard-D.-Levesque Building

Not far from the rue du Trésor, the majestic Édifice Gérard-D. Levesque, headquarters of the finance ministry, is a striking example of 1920s architecture. Often overlooked by tourists, who are more interested in the Château Frontenac, this elegant building deserves your attention. Access is limited, but its neoclassical architecture is well worth a look.

Credit: Jeangagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

3. Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux

Located under the Dufferin Terrace, the remains of this fortification complex are proof of the city’s past defensive importance. A guided visit takes the curious into the depths of Quebec’s history. You’ll even see the remains of the Château Saint-Louis, the home of Samuel de Champlain, the founder of Quebec City.

Credit: Thomas1313, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

4. Morrin Centre

The Morrin Centre is a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Old Quebec that offers a captivating look at the city’s history. This multi-purpose cultural centre is housed in a magnificent historic building that was once a prison, testament to the fascinating evolution of its use over time. Inside, you can discover one of Canada’s oldest English-language libraries, with a collection of books that are as rare as they are precious.

Credit: Morrin Centre (@MorrinCentre)

5. Promenade Samuel-de-Champlain

This magnificent public space located along the banks of the St. Laurent offers visitors a breathtaking view of the Quebec City’s cityscape, as well as of the majestic river itself. The 6.8 km route is dotted with works of art and six “stations,” each with a different theme. For example, we recommend the “beach station” where you can swim in an infinity pool in the river.

Credit: art_inthecity from Montréal, CA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

6. Rivière Saint-Charles Linear Park

The Saint-Charles river, that runs through Quebec City and flows into the Beauport bay, and offers something that walkers and cyclists will love!

This 32 (!) kilometre-long park, divided into 13 sectors, allows you to admire the city from a different angle while surrounded by nature.

Credit: Judicieux, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A little farther away…

If you have a car or want to use public transport, here are other very interesting places to discover:

• Quai Paquet

The Quai Paquet is an emblematic site in the Vieux-Port de Lévis historic district, opposite Quebec City across the St. Laurent. This quay offers a breathtaking view of the Quebec City skyline, offering a magnificent setting for strolling, relaxing and enjoying the fresh air. What’s more, it is very accessible, since it is where the ferry drops passengers if you are one of them!

Credit: Crystal Fountains

• The Bois-de-Coulonge Park

Le parc du Bois-de-Coulonge is peaceful sanctuary in Quebec City and offers a tranquil escape to the heart of nature in an urban setting. This historic park in the Sillery district is known for its vast green spaces, its beautifully manicured gardens and serene atmosphere that inspires relaxation and contemplation. With its trails, gardens, outdoor sport areas and historic buildings, this urban park is often overlooked due to its proximity to the Plains of Abraham but is definitely worth a visit.

Credit: Wilfredor, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

All in all, Old Quebec has riches that are just waiting to be discovered. Going off the beaten tourist track opens the possibility of being charmed by experiences and stories unknown to many.

Enjoy!

The hotel complex’s first distinction

Quebec City, Monday November 6, 2023 – Le Capitole Hôtel is now proudly able to display its sparkling CAA-AAA Four Diamonds, ranking it among North America’s finest hotels. This select list of renowned Four and Five Diamond hotels is published annually by the Canadian (CAA) and American (AAA) associations. Le Capitole Hôtel is now officially a major player in the nation’s capital, with the same ranking as the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and the Auberge Saint-Antoine.

RIGOROUS SELECTION PROCESS

Le Capitole Hôtel is proud to see its efforts result in this important award. The CAA-AAA awards are unquestionably a  guarantee of quality and are not easily obtained, since hidden behind each additional Diamond is a considerable amount of work to offer guests the most pleasant environment and the best service. Among other things, the association evaluates the comfort and cleanliness of the facilities, the view from the site, the bathrooms, etc. The verifications can even go as far as how well the pen offered to clients writes, nothing is excluded! That’s why, for over 50 years, consumers have placed their trust in the CAA/AAA Diamond Awards list, a prestigious guarantee of quality.

“When you know that only 3.2% of some 60,000 North American establishments eligible for this rigorous evaluation have earned the Four Diamond distinction, and that this percentage drops to 0.27% when it comes to Five Diamond establishments, it’s easy to understand why being included is so meaningful,”
said Mr. Paul A. Pelletier, CEO CAA-Québec.

For four years now, the new Le Capitole Hôtel has been offering a wide range of quality facilities, including an indoor swimming pool on the 9th floor with a magnificent terrace, a modern gym, the Clubby bar which serves exclusively champagne, two dining options – the renowned Ristorante Il Teatro and the new Bō Cuisine d’Asie – an art gallery, several meeting rooms, and private event venues for up to 1,000 guests, as well as the mythic Théâtre Capitole which is part of the historical building. All this in addition to its 108 rooms, suites and the penthouse, all with impressive modern comforts that travellers staying at the hotel rave about.

ABOUT LE CAPITOLE HÔTEL

Since its inauguration in 2019, Le Capitole Hôtel has been the destination of choice for business travellers and tourists alike wishing to enjoy Quebec City’s warm welcome as well as its cultural events and world-renowned historical old city. This upscale hotel boasts elegant rooms with refined décor and abundant windows, as well as personalized services such as the Clefs d’or concierge service.

Spring in Quebec is often underestimated as it falls between winter, which is the season of festivities and snow, and summer, synonymous with warmth and sports. However, spring offers a variety of activities to enjoy and places to visit.

One thing is certain: you never get bored in Quebec!

Here is a list of activities you can do if you come from late March to late June:

Enjoy the snow till the very end

Spring means the return of warmer weather and melting snow. Happily, there’s still time enjoy the slopes before the mountains lose their white coat.

This year, Mont-Sainte-Anne is closing the doors to its ski hill on April 21, and the Massif de Charlevoix April 12, so what are you waiting for? Come skiing!

If you don’t have equipment, don’t worry, just contact our concierge (concierge@lecapitole.com) to arrange equipment rental and/or transport to the ski hills.

Credit: Étienne Dionne for Mont-Sainte-Anne.

Treat yourself to a chocolatey long weekend!

Chocolate lovers, make the most of the Easter long weekend by staying at Le Capitole Hôtel and visiting Old Quebec.

Enjoy Easter brunch at Il Teatro, created especially for the occasion by our talented chefs.

Then, stroll through the Petit-Champlain and Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighbourhoods to find your favourite chocolate shop. We have a soft spot for chocolaterie Érico, which is also a chocolate museum.

Credit: André-Olivier Lyra.

Savour Quebec products in a sugar shack

Sugar shacks are a typical Quebecois tradition. Maple syrup season is the time to gather around a table with a checkered tablecloth in an old log cabin and share a comforting, hearty meal!

On the menu: pea soup, baked beans, “oreilles de criss,” tourtière, and, of course, maple-sugar pie for dessert. And if weather permits, you can even taste maple taffy!

Much more than just a culinary experience, a sugar shack is also where you can learn how to make delicious maple syrup (which starts flowing when the temperature is around  0 °C), take a sleigh ride, or to enjoy traditional music.

Several maple groves are within a 30-minute drive of Le Capitole Hôtel, including the Érablière le Chemin du Roy or the Sucrerie Blouin. Contact our concierges (concierge@lecapitole.com) to organize your experience !

Credit: the Sucrerie Blouin.

Go rafting or how to experience the snowmelt to the max

When spring comes and the temperatures warm up, the snow that has accumulated over the winter starts to melt and flow into nearby rivers. This is particularly the case with the Rivière Jacques-Cartier, which swells considerably.

The best way to enjoy this period is by rafting down the river! Whether as a couple, with friends or colleagues, sign up for a three-hour rafting trip that will leave you with lasting memories.

Let the team of professions at Expéditions nouvelle vague take you on an adventure just a stone’s throw from Quebec City!

Credit: Expéditions nouvelle vague.

Visit the Montmorency falls at their best

Are you on vacation in Quebec City when the snow is melting, but racing down a river doesn’t interest you?  You can still appreciate the impact of the phenomenon by visiting Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, when its flow is at its highest volume of the year

Admire the majestic waterfall from the train station directly opposite before taking the cable car to the summit and crossing the bridge to fully appreciate its power, with the Fleuve Saint-Laurent and the Île d’Orléans in the background.

The more adventurous can enjoy the view from the on-site zip line, or from one of the Via Ferrata circuits.

Credit: SÉPAQ.

Go to the various events scheduled for the spring

With the arrival of warmer weather, Quebec City is offering a wide selection of events. Here are a few that you might find interesting:

• Salon international du livre de Québec: April 11 to 14
• Printemps de la musique: May 18 to 19
• Onwha’ Lumina: Throughout the year, dates vary
• Carrefour international de théâtre: May 23 to June 8

As well, the Théâtre Capitole, the Diamant, the Palais Montcalm and the Grand Théâtre offer programming that will thrill fans of music, theatre, humour and much more!

Summer Musts

Summer in Quebec City is wonderful. The city shines with vibrant colours and the streets are bursting with energy. Whether you live here or are only visiting, the Capitale nationale offers a multitude of activities to make the most of your summertime. Here are just a few of them:

1. Enjoy Festivals and Cultural Events

Quebec City comes alive with a series of festivals and cultural events during the summer. The Festival d’été de Québec, with its wide-ranging music lineup is a definite must. The ComediHa! And the Festival d’opéra de Québec add an entertaining artistic touch to your summer agenda, not to mention the selection of performances at the Théâtre Capitole.

Credit: André-Olivier Lyra

2. Stroll through Old Quebec

Explore the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover its European architecture, quaint boutiques and charming cafés. Take the opportunity to visit the Quartier du Petit Champlain, shaped by time, people and art in all its forms, just a few minutes’ walk from Le Capitole Hôtel.

Credit: Expedia

3. Expérience Outdoor Activities at the Parc de la Chute-Montmorency

Just a few minutes from downtown, the Parc de la Chute-Montmorency offers an exceptional experience. Admire the majestic waterfall, take a cable car to enjoy a panoramic view, or explore the nearby hiking trails.

Credit: Get your guide

4. Cruise on the Saint-Laurent

Embark for a tour on the majestic Saint-Laurent. Whether for a romantic sunset cruise or a family adventure on a bateau-mouche, boat rides offer a unique perspective of the beauty of the city and its surroundings.

Credit: Marjorie Larouche

5. Picnic in a Public Park

Enjoy the great outdoors by organizing a picnic in the Parc des Champs-de-Bataille, on the Plaines d’Abraham, or in the Parc du Bois-de-Coulonge. These vast green spaces offer the ideal setting to relax with family or friends.

Credit: Jeff Frenette

6. Cycle on Bike Paths

Quebec City boasts an extensive network of bike paths, ideal for cycling fans. Rent a bike and ride along the river banks, cross through the vibrant Quartier Saint-Roch or explore the l’Île d’Orléans for a more rustic adventure.

Credit: Audet Photo

7. Experience the Gourmet and/or Artistic Île d’Orléans

The Île d’Orléans is renowned for its gastronomic delights. Follow the Route du miel, dotted with orchards and roadside stands, and sample local products such as honey, jams, ciders and cheeses. You can also take the opportunity to explore the island’s artistic side by visiting local art galleries and craft stores. Unique oeuvres, from pottery to paintings, tell the story of the island’s vibrant artistic community.

Credit: Xavier Girard

8. Golf in Captivating Courses with Beautiful Landscapes

At the height of summer, Quebec City reveals another of its charms, inviting golfers to explore its superb courses. With its courses boasting stunning scenery, the city becomes a prestigious host for fans of this elegant sport. Whether it’s the prestigious course at the Club de Golf Royal Québec, the panoramic view at the Club de Golf de l’Auberivière or the relaxed atmosphere at the Golf La Tempête, every golfer is sure to find something to enjoy.

Credit: Golf La Tempête

9. Enjoy Local Markets and Delicacies

Don’t miss local markets like the Marché du Vieux-Port. Discover fresh produce, local specialities and artisanal creations. Also enjoy the lively terraces on rue Saint-Jean, such as those at BŌ Cuisine d’Asie and the renowned Il Teatro.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

10. Cool Off in the Water

Find refuge and refreshment in the area’s pools and beaches. In the heart of the city, you’ll find unique spots like the Oasis du bassin Louise, the cour arrière of the Festibière and the pool at Le Capitole Hôtel on the 9^th floor, where you can cool off while staying close to all the city has to offer.  A little farther out, the Plages Samuel de Champlain of the Baie de Beauport offer a haven of relaxation and enjoyment for all.

Credit: Radio-Canada

As you can see, Quebec City shines brightly during the summer, offering a variety of activities to suit all tastes. Whether you’re a culture buff, outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing break, Quebec City has everything it takes to make your summer unforgettable.

Crédit photo : Julien Boullet

Colourful walks

Whether it’s hiking the trails at Parc de la Chute-Montmorency or strolling down Old Quebec City’s beautiful streets, you will be surrounded by stunning fall colours during your stay at Le Capitole. Even from the city centre, magnificent views are easy to access!

If, after your activities, you are overwhelmed by the desire to enjoy the comfort of your room at Le Capitole, take the evening off and relax in a bathtub overlooking the Laurentides.

Apple and pumpkin picking

What could be better than picking your favourite variety of fresh delicious apples? This bucolic activity offers you the ideal backdrop for great photographs. You’ll find many orchards within a 30-minute drive both on Île d’Orléans and Quebec City’s Rive Sud. If you would rather stay closer to the hotel, be sure to stop at Grand Marché de Québec which is bursting with fresh seasonal produce.

Vineyard tours on Île d’Orléans

Île d’Orléans is, yet again, the ideal destination to enjoy the best of what nature has to offer. Its views of the city and the Côte-de-Beaupré will make you want to savour the spectacle with a glass of wine in hand. Here are some of our top addresses that are less than 30 mins away from Le Capitole Hôtel:

• Vignoble Ste-Pétronille
• Cassis Monna et Filles
• Vignoble Isle de Bacchus
• Domaine Sainte-Famille

Relax at the spa

Summer is over, but it’s still important to relax. Take the time to visit one of Quebec City’s many spas. Strøm Spa Nordique, also located in Old Quebec City, is the perfect destination to enjoy a moment of well-being with a breathtaking view of the St. Lawrence River.

Cultural activities

Quebec City is all about culture in the fall. See the city come alive with its exhibitions, festivals, as well as music and theatre.

Make the most of the many choices available by reading our article about the musts for a busy fall, which is sure to whet your appetite. Why not book a gourmet dinner at BŌ Cuisine d’Asie where you will discover a host of fresh local seasonal produce?

Festival d’Été de Québec from July 6 to 16

Canada’s largest outdoor music festival hosts legends who perform on the Plaines d’Abraham site, which can welcome over 80,000 people. The FEQ is more than a hundred thousand festival attendees, 250 shows, international stars and all types of up-and-coming artists.

Festival Cigale August 12 & 13

Cigale promises to be an awesome Beachside Beats and Eats experience, beyond a festival, on the fabulous Baie de Beauport Sun Life site. It’s not just a place, it’s a state of mind. Sun. Friends. Good music, very good music in fact. Something to satisfy your hunger, thirst and your desire to enjoy life and an extraordinary day. Cigale, because the sun always shines brighter on the beach!

crédit: André-Olivier Lyra

Grands Feux Loto-Québec from August 1 to 24

There will be eight evenings of activities and magic on the Old Port quays on Thursdays from August 1 to 24!  Don’t miss the magic of the fireworks that will light up the sky and thrill both young and old. Meet at the Place des Canotiers located a few steps away from the hotel. These free music and firework shows attract over 700,000 visitors to both shores of the St. Lawrence River.

Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France from August 3 to 6

What are Les Fêtes? It is a celebration of what America was in the 17^th and 18^th centuries. This year, the event has a brand-new concept:  the TD Treasure Hunt.  Old Quebec City  will transform into an immense playground offering seven historic quests inspired by seven characters from New France.

ComediHa! from August 3 to 27

This festival is an important stop in the global comedy industry. Each year, thousands of festival-goers can attend performances of more than 500 artists and artisans, including stars, up-and-comers, and international artists thanks to a diverse, exciting schedule. Several shows will be presented at the Théâtre Capitole. You’ll be sure not to miss anything if you stay at the hotel.

Le Théâtre Capitole

You couldn’t be closer to the Théâtre Capitole than during your stay at the hotel.  In addition to its impressive architecture, the theatre is an important piece of history, since it is the sole survivor of the lavish theatres built between 1900 and 1930. Take advantage of being so close to attend one of the shows in this superb urban performance venue.

Festibière from August 17 to 20

A brewing event that hosts over a hundred exhibitors to help you discover flavours from Quebec and around world (microbreweries, brasseries, cider mills and more). Le Festibière de Québec, is a summer must! Located in the Old Port, you can easily get there from the hotel. On the agenda: lots of fun in a festive atmosphere—all that’s missing is you.

Fête Arc-en-ciel du 1er au 4 sept

The Quebec City Pride Festival takes place each year over the Labour Day weekend in the heart of more than 400 years of history and romance.

Festival celtique de Québec 8 au 10 septembre

Next September, this festival invites you to celebrate the Celtic influence in America! Though music, culture and sports, discover what we have in common with the Celtic peoples, particularly the Irish, Scots and Bretons. Let yourself be swept off your feet by the only French-speaking Celtic festival in North America.