fbpx

Discover springtime in Québec!

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:

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!

Le Capitole Hôtel receives the honour of Four Diamonds


The hotel complex’s first distinction

Quebec City, Monday November 6, 2023Le 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.

La Galerie de la Passerelle

A first for Quebec’s Le Capitole

INAUGURATION OF LA GALERIE DE LA PASSERELLE AT LE CAPITOLE HÔTEL

Entre Ciel et Terre, exhibition by Marjorie Roy in collaboration with Les Galeries d’Art Beauchamp

2023 marks the opening of La Galerie de la Passerelle at Le Capitole Hôtel, with the unveiling of its first exhibition accessible for free: Entre Ciel et Terre, by emerging artist Marjorie Roy. Located on the 7th floor of Le Capitole, the impressive glass walkway, linking the historic building to the new section of the hotel inaugurated in January 2019, welcomes the works of the Quebec City artist through a collaboration with Les Galeries d’Art Beauchamp. Debuting today, the exhibition will last all through summer. Open to the general public, La Galerie de la Passerelle will quickly become a must-see in the national capital.

 

Le Capitole Hôtel X Les Galeries d’Art Beauchamp

Widely recognized as a cultural hub, Le Capitole benefits from its new modern spaces to showcase local talent in both the performing and visual arts. A true place of discovery and gathering for the hotel’s guests, Quebec City residents, and tourists strolling the city’s historic streets, La Galerie de la Passerelle offers the region a wholly unique panorama. Through a collaboration with the renowned Galeries d’Art Beauchamp, this space will become even more stunning, as the walls of the walkway will now be decorated with incredible works of art all year long.

 

Entre Ciel et Terre, by Marjorie Roy

With Entre Ciel et Terre, Nouvelle-Beauce born photographer Marjorie Roy showcases her passion for the flight of migratory birds through a selection of works stemming from the extraordinary artistic technique of digital collage. Remarkable textures, contrasts, and colours are born from this process where layering leads to harmonious compositions. Printed on brushed metal plates, the works take advantage of the striking way in which natural light reflects off of metallic surfaces, an effect that will be more visible than ever depending on the height of the sun through the glass walls of the walkway.

 

The Passerelle

Located on the roof of Le Capitole, the Passerelle is the walkway that links the historic building and the new hotel complex behind it. Running along the fortifications and offering a spectacular view of Old Quebec, the Passerelle offers a unique perspective at any hour, day or night. The inauguration of La Galerie de la Passerelle is an opportunity not to be missed for those who have yet to see the new facilities of Le Capitole Hôtel and rediscover this ever-evolving jewel.

 

Le Capitole Hôtel

Since its reopening in January 2019, Le Capitole Hôtel has attracted an international clientele eager to experience the warmth of Quebec City through its cultural spirit and events as well as its world-renowned historical character.

Discover Sunny Quebec City

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 9th 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.

Winter Love

If you are planning on visiting to celebrate love, this article is for you!

Here is a short list that will help you plan your stay in Quebec City:

(Re) Visit Old Quebec

A romantic stroll in Old Quebec is a must. Go to the Quartier Petit-Champlain and be transported to a small European village just a 10-minute walk away from Le Capitole.

Wander the city streets and take a seat in one of the many cafés, treat yourself in a bakery or browse around in the small boutiques. There’s always something to do in the heart of Quebec’s capital city!

To enjoy an even more magical ambiance, wait until nightfall and let the lights highlighting Old Quebec’s unique architecture enchant you.

One thing is certain: no matter what you do, your stroll through the historic heart of Quebec City is sure to charm you.

Credit: Hillary Newman

Make the most of Le Capitole Hôtel’s services

You don’t even have to go outside to enjoy a romantic getaway at  Le Capitole Hôtel.

Relax by the heated pool on the 9th floor and enjoy the breathtaking view of the snow-covered Laurentian mountains. Or book a massage, alone or with your partner, in our brand-new massage therapy space (reservations must be made a minimum of 72 hours before your arrival).

Add to your pleasure with a bottle of champagne in your room or with your favourite cocktail at the Clubby bar, where the fireplace adds an extra romantic touch.

Do you require something special or are you celebrating something during your stay? Contact our concierge service for any personal requests you may have.

Share a meal with that special someone

Why not enjoy a romantic dinner in one of our two restaurants, Ristorante Il Teatro or BŌ Cuisine d’Asie, for an unforgettable evening with delicious food and wonderful company?

The next day, start the day off right by brunching at Il Teatro, or order your breakfast in your room so you can stay in the cozy comfort of your bed!

Marvel at a Candlelight Concert

Offer your better half a taste of Valentine’s Day with the Candlelight concert created for the occasion. On February 10, at 6:30 pm or 8:45 pm, enjoy the Orchestre Filmharmonique which will perform the greatest romantic songs, from  Romeo & Juliette to Celine Dion.

Located on the ground of the Collège Saint-Charles Garnier, just a10-minute drive from Le Capitole Hôtel, this is the perfect outing for a romantic evening.

Credit: mtlpresse.ca

Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Strøm Spa nordique

For a relaxing day with your loved one, a visit to Strøm spa nordique is a must. Enjoy the infinity pool, the Nordic baths, the space or the relaxing services and spend a soothing day on the shores of the Saint-Laurent.

In addition, as a Le Capitole Hôtel guest, you are entitled to a preferential rate on packages (reservations must be made a minimum of 72 hours before your arrival)!

Credit: Le Passe-Partout

And for active couples who would like to enjoy the great outdoors during their stay, here is a list of winter sports to do in the area!

Finally, don’t forget that our concierge service can help you plan everything. From reservations, to transportation, our concierges will be pleased to help you have an unforgettable stay. Don’t hesitate to contact them: concierge@lecapitole.com

Ideal Canadian Winter Sports Activities

Les plaines d’Abraham, a historical urban park 

Only a 15-minute walk from Le Capitole Hôtel, the Plaines d’Abraham site is one of the city’s major points of interest. Did you know that this site, which once played a significant role in Canadian history, is  very popular with people who enjoy the great outdoors? In fact, this urban park is ideal for all types of outdoor activities, from cross-country skiing to snowshoeing.  

As well, located just across the street from the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Québec is a giant 358-metre long skating rink, the Anneau de glace des plaines d’Abraham. 

You don’t have any equipment? No problem, you can rent what you need at the skaters’ chalet.  

By the way, access to the various facilities is free.

Credit: Ville de Québec 

 

Skiing in the Québec region 

If you like speeding down the slopes, several ski resorts are within an hour’s drive from Le Capitole Hôtel. Whichever mountain you choose, there are runs for all levels.  

Here are a few ski resorts nearby: 

 

Ski et snowboard à Québec

Credit: Gabriel Rancourt 

 

Head for the Terrasse Dufferin to race down the toboggan runs!  

Every winter since1884, this iconic structure in Quebec City becomes a public toboggan run at the top of the Terrasse Dufferin, just below the Château Frontenac. Once you’ve climbed the stairs, enjoy the breathtaking view of the St. Lawrence River and the Île d’Orléans before you race down the run at over 70 km/h. 

Pick up your tickets at the hotel reception desk and enjoy this mythic city attraction without having to wait in line!

Grande glissade de la terrasse Dufferin

Credit : OTQ

Cycling, even in winter! 

Visit Old Quebec in a different way! This winter, pedal through the streets of Quebec City on a fatbike. These bicycles are specially designed for riding in difficult conditions thanks to their wide tires. 

Contact our concierge service to choose the rental package best for you. Whether you’re with your family, that special someone, or a group, there is sure to be a package for you (you can also rent gear to stay warm).  

Credit : Tuque & Bicycle Expérience

 

Ice fishing in the city? Yes, you can!  

Head for the Bassin Louise, 15 minutes away by foot from Le Capitole Hôtel, to  discover this wonderful activity with family or friends. Get comfy and fish for trout just as Quebec’s First Nations do.  

The Village Nordik in the Port de Québec offers you various family activity zones and restaurants to discover from the beginning of February to the end of March 2024.  

Pêche sur glace Vieux Port de Québec

Credit: https://www.quebec-cite.com/ 

 

See the city from the St. Lawrence River

Would you like to try a typically Quebecois activity that will show you the capital from a unique perspective? Ask our concierge service to organize an introduction to ice canoeing by Canot à Glace Expérience for you. Whether you’re a couple, a group of friends or a team, you will enjoy an outstanding experience, which includes introductory training and a guided tour of the city from the river!  

After you return to the quay, you can relax in their panoramic sauna overlooking the river to end the day in style.

Don’t forget to have a delicious hot chocolate at the Ristorante Il Teatro when you get back to the hotel!

 

  

Credit: Canot à Glace Expérience 

  

Skate in a breathtaking setting 

Skating is fun for everyone! Quebec City has three skating rinks where you can skate for free if you already have your own equipment. You can even see the rink in the Carré d’Youville directly opposite the hotel.  

If you didn’t bring your skates, you can rent some at the rink.  

Le Capitole patinage

Credit: André-Olivier Lyra 

No matter the activity you choose, the Clubby bar will be there to welcome you back. Order your favourite drink and enjoy it by the fire! You can also have a comforting hot chocolate brought to your room, and/or soak in a nice hot bath in one of our magnificent suites! 

Finally, take a look at our article A Magical Winter at Le Capitol to learn all about the cultural events you can’t miss this winter.

  

From a Performance Venue to a Cultural Icon: The Grandiose History of Le Capitole

Credit: Fred C. Würtele, BAnQ Québec

In 1902, the American architect Walter S. Painter was selected to design the performance venue, then called the Auditorium de Québec. After its inauguration the following year,  audiences could attend Vaudeville and variety shows, amateur and professional theatre as well as opera performances, both in French and English.

On March 29, 1918, in the midst of the First World War, a riot broke out as an estimated 12,000 people gathered in the Place D’Youville to protest against conscription for Canadian men between the ages of 20 and 35. The registration offices, located in the Auditorium, were ransacked and set ablaze by rioters. Firefighters were able to contain the fire and limit damage to the building.

In 1927, the American architect Thomas White Lamb redesigned the venue to accommodate up to 2,000 people. Then, in 1930, the Auditorium partnered with the film distribution company Famous Players, which changed the venue’s name to the Capitol (and yes you read correctly, without an e). At that time, talkies were increasingly replacing silent films. In addition to the cinema, many classical and popular singers came to perform, as well as the Grands Ballets Canadiens.

In 1935, the radio station CKCV, already on air for the past nine years, moved to the third floor of the Capitol, where it stayed until 1974.

Credit : Léopold Arcand, BAnQ Québec
Credit : Léopold Arcand, BAnQ Québec

The Capitol was witness to several historical events. Examples include the gala evening on October 9, 1951 held in honour of Princess Elisabeth and her husband the Duke of Edinburgh, as well as the 1953 world premiere of Alfred Hitchcock’s film I Confess, shot in Quebec City the year before. 

Competition from new suburban theatres and new media heralded the decline of the Capitol, which was forced to close its doors in 1981. Three years later, the building was designated a heritage site to protect it. Another three years went by before the Capitol was designated a Canadian National Historic Site by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. 

In 1992, thanks to a group of promoters, the Capitol once again became part of the cultural sector, and its name was changed to Le Capitole. The building was transformed into three distinct spaces: a 1,100-seat theatre to offer various types of shows in a cabaret format, a 40-room boutique hotel, as well as a restaurant. A fourth floor was added to complete this visionary project. The reopening was grandiose: a gala hosted by Quebec actors Rémi Girard and Marc-André Coallier thrilled the public! The event featured dozens of Quebec and international artists, including Céline Dion, Michel Sardou, Robert Charlebois and Alys Robi, accompanied by the Orchestre symphonique de Québec. This first show presented at the Théâtre Capitole since its closing 11 years earlier was a major hit.  

In 2018, significant expansion work began, which would last 18 months. Faced with stagnant show sales, the owners had no choice but to re-evaluate their business model. The solution was to increase the peripheral offer. The hotel went from 40 to 108 rooms, including suites and a penthouse, to become an impressive five-star hotel complex with nine floors. The new glass-covered addition, north of the historic building, offers breathtaking views of Old Quebec and the Laurentians.

Credit : Stéphane Groleau
Credit : Stéphane Groleau

The work included upgrades to the heritage building, as well as expanding and modernizing the two-story Ristorante Il Teatro. Private lounges were added, as well as a multi-purpose function room called Le Confessionnal (in honour of Alfred Hitchcock), and a champagne bar called le Clubby Bar.

Since these major changes in 2018, Le Capitole Hôtel has been welcoming an international clientele. Everyone is immediately charmed by the building’s historic character and the beauty of its views of the fortified city. With the mission of proposing the best five-star hotel experience in Quebec City, Le Capitole Hôtel offers its clientele exclusive specials and an unforgettable stay that lives up to its grand history!

A magical winter at Le Capitole

The German Christmas Market lights up Old Quebec 

The German Christmas Market, which takes place from November 23 to December 23, is a classic in Old Quebec. Each year more than 90 artisans and local producers gather together to offer you a variety of products sure to delight young and old alike. 

Spend unforgettable moments in five of the most beautiful settings in the Capitale-Nationale region, and enjoy the many free activities on offer. It’s the perfect outing to enjoy the holidays!  

Even better, you benefit from a preferential rate on “Citadine” rooms with king beds on market days by using the code MNAQ23 when you book.

 

The Quebec Winter Carnival celebrates its 70th year 

The Quebec Carnival is known worldwide as the ultimate winter celebration. From January 25to February 1, 2024, come celebrate its 70th year with the historic mascot Bonhomme! Enjoy a drink at the Ungava Ice Bar, admire the view in Bonhomme’s  palace, or marvel at the ice sculptures in the Sculpture Garden.

Are you looking for thrills and chills? Sled directly down the city’s steep streets with Slide City, from January 25 to 28. 

This year, Le Capitole Hôtel is once again partnering with the Quebec Carnival to offer you the Carnival Brunch at the Ristorante Il Teatro Sundays during the Carnival. Reserve your table now. 

Credit : Audet Photo

Tea time at Le Capitole 

Le Capitole Hôtel offers you a selection of Asian and boreal tea from Thursday to Saturday, from 2 to 4:30 pm. Get comfy at the Clubby bar on the 6 th floor and let yourself be inspired by a selection of tea that, for a moment, will take you to the other side of the
world.

Of course, tea time also means an assortment of small delights to accompany your tea. Enjoy a sweet tower filled with pastries and tarts, scones and jam, Japanese shortbread and sandwiches, all freshly prepared by our chefs.  

Book now !

For all parties of 6 persons and more, please book by phone at the following number : 418 694-9996.

Credit : Juste Marie Photographe

Feel the beat in the heart of the Carré des spectacles 

This winter, Quebec City’s many performance venues are tuning up to offer you memorable evenings. À votre party ! , at the Théâtre Capitole will have you singing and dancing the best music from the 70s to today. On the other hand, the Diamant, is presenting Machine de Cirque which is sure to please both young and old.

You still want more shows?  The Grand Théâtre and the Palais Montcalm also offer a wide variety of shows, from choirs to symphony orchestras to musicals. 

 

Cultural escapades

You have an afternoon free, but want to stay warm? Le Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec and the Musée de la civilisation are easy to get to from Le Capitole Hôtel and offer a variety of exhibitions that will help you discover the immense cultural heritage of  La Belle Province.

Credit: Pavillon Pierre Lassonde at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec. Photo: © Bruce Damonte 

And if you really don’t want to step foot outside, you can satisfy your yearning for culture right at the hotel. Le Capitole Hôtel is hosting the  Entre Ciel et Terre  exhibition at the Galerie de la Passerelle, on the 7th floor. Admire the flight of Canada Geese captured by the artist-photographer Marjorie Roy through an extraordinary series of  works composed of photographic assemblages created by computer.  

 

A breath of fresh air 

Enjoy milder temperatures while skating in a unique setting at the d’Youville skating rink, located just opposite Le Capitole Hôtel.  

More comfortable in boots than skates ? A stroll through the Petit Champlain neighbourhood is sure to charm you with its magnificent Christmas decorations and many artisans’ boutiques where you’ll find what you need to finish your holiday shopping. You can even warm up along the way by one of the many firepits set up around town!  

Of course, you’ll also want to discover the various points of interest in Old Quebec during your stroll. Here is a short list of the must-sees close to Le Capitole Hôtel: 

  • Rue du Petit-Champlain et la Place-Royale 
  • Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville 
  • Place D’Youville 
  • Grande Allée 
  • Avenue Cartier 
  • Terrasse Dufferin. 

Fall Activities in and Around Quebec City

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:

Crédit : JULIEN BOULLET

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.

Crédit : Strom Spa

 

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?

The Most Beautiful Terraces with Views in Old Quebec

Le Capitole’s many terraces offer a wealth of views

As soon as you arrive in the lobby, you can take your place on the terrace to soak up the morning sun, and make the pleasure last long into the night beside the fire. Before returning to your room, be sure not to miss the magnificent sunset over the Laurentides that you can enjoy from the pool on the 9th floor. For those looking for something more intimate, head to the hotel’s exclusive terrace on the 6th floor situated above the theatre.

Le Clubby bar

As soon as you arrive in the lobby, you can take your place on the terrace to soak up the morning sun, and make the pleasure last long into the night beside the fire. Before returning to your room, be sure not to miss the magnificent sunset over the Laurentides that you can enjoy from the pool on the 9th floor. For those looking for something more intimate, head to the hotel’s exclusive terrace on the 6th floor situated above the theatre.

 

Il Teatro

The city’s most beautiful terrace offers dishes as generous and splendid as its view of Place D’Youville and the historic fortifications. What better way to start cocktail hour than with delicious antipasti to share on a terrace where you feel Italy’s warm welcome? When you leave your room, you arrive directly at this marvellous terrace in the heart of Old Quebec City.

 

The BŌ Terrace

Make your experience last by enjoying the BŌ – Cuisine d’Asie restaurant located in the same building. Pleasure and amazement are guaranteed with the new well-appointed terrace which is heated for cooler evenings. What’s more, it is now possible to experience this immersive cuisine from Tuesday to Sunday for dinner, as well on Thursdays and Fridays for lunch.

 

Diamant Terrace

Make a stop a few steps from the hotel at the Diamant rooftop terrace. By reservation only, you’ll be able to admire the simply exceptional view that provides you a privileged perspective of Old Quebec City and its fortifications. A cocktail just before a show at the Diamant is a winning combination!

 

 

What to do in Quebec City – Summer 2023

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 17th and 18th 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.