Citadel of Quebec (Citadelle de Quebec) Tours
2 Reviews
The huge star-shaped Citadel of Quebec (Citadelle de Quebec) is the largest military fortress in North America still occupied by troops. Begun by the French in the 1750s, the fortress was completed by the British in the mid-19th century, but never actually saw any action. Today, Canada’s French-speaking Royal 22nd Regiment (Royal 22e Régiment) is based here.
The Basics
Sightseeing and hop-on hop-off bus tours of Quebec City often visit the Citadel of Quebec, with guides providing commentary about its history and current role as a base for Canadian forces. Purchase a ticket to explore the National Historic Site and access the Royal 22nd Regiment Museum (Musée Royal 22e Régiment), where weapons, uniforms, and other military artifacts are displayed. French- and English-language guided tours of the complex take place at least every hour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Citadel of Quebec is a must for anyone with an interest in military history.
- A good portion of the tour takes place outdoors, so wear weather-appropriate clothing.
- The citadel is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The fort is set atop Cape Diamond (Cap Diamant), which overlooks the St. Lawrence River. Reach the citadel by car via Côte de la Citadelle (limited parking is available at the site). It’s about a 30-minute walk from Gare du Palais train station and a 20-minute walk from Chateau Frontenac. RTC buses (3 and 11) stop next to Côte de la Citadelle.
When to Get There
Summer is the best time to visit: Tours are more frequent, the weather is warmer, and troops can be seen performing special ceremonies. Changing of the Guard ceremonies take place daily at 10am from June 24 through Labour Day in early September, while Beating of the Retreat ceremonies run at 5pm on Wednesdays in July and August. Nighttime tours by lantern take place from June to October.
Regimental Ceremonies at the Citadel
The Changing of the Guard marks the handover between the previous sentries on duty and the batch of troops taking over for them. Officers inspect the troops, with the military band providing music and the well-behaved mascot, Batisse the goat, also taking part. Meanwhile, the Beating of the Retreat marks the end of the day and sees guards assemble on the parade square to fire rifles. Troops wear bearskin hats and red regimental coats during both ceremonies.
Address: 201 Côte de la Citadelle, Old Upper Town, Quebec City, Canada
5 Tours and Activities to Experience Citadel of Quebec (Citadelle de Quebec)
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Quebec City Walking Tour
Explore historic Old Québec City on this walking tour. Visit many of Québec City’s top attractions in the Upper and Lower Town districts—like the Fortifications of Québec, Citadelle of Québec, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and many more. Discover Québec City's history from 1608 to the present day and get to know this UNESCO World Heritage site, with educational and entertaining commentary from a professional tour conductor.
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From
$24.15
From
$24.15
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Quebec City Shore Excursion: Grand Walking Tour of Quebec City
While docked at the Port of Québec, explore historic Old Québec City on this walking tour. Visit many of Québec City’s top attractions in the Upper and Lower Town districts — like the Fortifications of Québec, Citadelle of Québec, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and many more. Discover Québec City's history from 1608 to the present day and get to know this UNESCO World Heritage site, with educational and entertaining commentary from a professional tour conductor.
…More
From
$24.15
From
$24.15
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Electric Bike Tour of Quebec City
Discover the beauty of Québec City with ease on this electric bike tour along the St. Lawrence River. Pedal or cruise up the hill to the Plains of Abraham Park. Along the way, stop to see sights like the Promenade Samuel de Champlain, the citadel of Quebec, the Notre-Dame of Quebec Cathedral, and much more. Learn about the city’s history and geography on this small-group tour limited to just 10 cyclists age 18 and over.
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From
$73.54
From
$73.54
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Quebec City Bike Tour Along Saint Lawrence River
Get to know the best of Old Québec City on this guided bike tour. Enjoy a relaxing 13-mile (20-kilometer) ride along the majestic St. Lawrence River and Old Québec's bike-friendly Lower Town district, learning about its history from 1608 to the present day. Get to know this UNESCO World Heritage Site with educational and entertaining commentary from the knowledgeable guide. See the famous castle/hotel Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the Citadelle of Quebec, and more while admiring the city’s natural beauty along the Saint Lawrence River. Bike and helmet are included.
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From
$50.66
From
$50.66
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Private Walking Tour for American Visitors - 1776 Canada's Road to Independence
Best must-do experience for Americans visiting Quebec City;
In-depth and fun historical overview you can relate to;
Exclusive access to a private lounge for breaks / snacks;
Convenient meeting point: your hotel in Old Quebec.
Many Americans do not know to what a great extent American and Canadian history are intertwined, and thus our tour focuses on the ties that link these two countries. Do you know the link between French-speaking Canada and YOUR part of the continent? There is no better place to study these connections than in beautiful Quebec City.
Our tour examines how early French settlers, the French & Indian War, the Boston Tea Party, the American Revolution, the Louisiana Purchase, the War of 1812 and the American Civil War shaped Quebec and Canada. During this 3-hour walking tour, we will explore sites in both the Upper Town and Lower Town, sites that highlight the significant role played by Quebec City in the history of North America and in the creation of modern Canada.
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From
$175.36
per group
From
$175.36
per group
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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