Quebec’s 15 Best Tours & Things To Do: Which To Choose?

Quebec isn’t just about historic streets and poutine — although those are pretty great too. It’s a place where you can cycle through lush islands, zipline over mountain peaks, or explore wild parks filled with Canadian wildlife.

Some of our favorite experiences include the Quebec City – Guided E-Bike Tour & Tastings – Ile d’Orléans for its scenic stops and local delicacies, and the Ultimate Dog Sledding Tour that captures the true spirit of Canadian winter adventure.

Whether you’re into outdoor sports, cultural excursions, or aerial views, Quebec offers a wide array of activities that suit all tastes and energy levels.

Quick Overview

This list covers a mix of guided tours, self-guided rentals, private adventures, and group excursions — all with a focus on authentic experiences and value. You’ll find options like e-bike tours, snowshoeing with mountain goats, scenic flights over Ottawa, and wildlife safaris at Omega Park.

Each one is selected for its uniqueness, reviews, and how well it captures Quebec’s diverse landscape and culture. Now, let’s dive into the details.

1. Quebec City – Guided E-Bike Tour & Tastings – Ile d’Orléans

This guided e-bike tour takes you around Ile d’Orléans, a picturesque island just outside Quebec City. For about $99, you’ll spend roughly 3.5 hours pedaling effortlessly on an electric bike, allowing you to focus on the scenery and the local flavors.

The small group size (maximum 8) ensures an intimate experience, with stops for chocolate, berries, and wine tastings at farms and a family-run winery. Your guide shares insights into the island’s history, agriculture, and culture, making it more than just a bike ride.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic beauty, delicious local tastings, and expert commentary. The route includes maple syrup farms, berry farms, and chocolate factories, all with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.

Reviews consistently praise the fun of riding the e-bikes and the quality of tastings, with one saying, “It was a day to remember — beautiful scenery and delicious local food.” Perfect for those who want a relaxed, immersive day exploring Quebec’s countryside.

Bottom Line: An ideal choice for slow-paced travelers who want a taste of local food, history, and scenery. The electric bikes make it accessible for most fitness levels.

2. Snowshoeing with Mountain Goats Private Activity

For those chilly days, snowshoeing with mountain goats offers a rare chance to connect with nature and see Quebec’s rugged landscapes. This 3.5-hour private tour in Jacques Cartier Valley is highly rated for its knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

You’ll trek through majestic forests, crossing snowy terrain while your guide explains the history of the region and the fascinating tradition of lumberjacks. The highlight is encountering mountain goats in their natural habitat — a truly special moment.

Guests mention the safety and fun of the outing, with reviews stating, “Francois, our guide, made sure everyone was comfortable and safe, and his stories about the region added depth to the experience.” The chance to see wildlife, explore the snowy wilderness, and learn about local history makes this activity stand out. Lunch around the campfire adds a warm finish to a day of adventure.

Bottom Line: Best suited for outdoor lovers and those interested in wildlife and regional history. The private setting makes for a personalized experience.

3. Back Country of the Fjord and the National Park

Discover Quebec’s stunning Saguenay Fjord on this back-country tour with a guided minibus adventure. For about $132, you visit top spots like La Pyramide des Ha! Ha!, L’Anse-Saint-Jean, and the famous covered bridge. Your guide shares stories about the geology, history, and indigenous culture of the region as you travel through small villages and scenic viewpoints.

What makes this tour compelling is its accessible exploration of rugged terrain without strenuous hiking. The stops at notable landmarks like L’Anse-de-Tabatière and the towering cliffs provide memorable photo opportunities and insights into the area’s formation and past. It’s a particularly good pick if you’re on a cruise or short on time but want a broad view of Quebec’s natural beauty.

Reviews mention the well-paced narration and scenic sites, with one traveler noting, “This tour gave us a great overview of the fjord’s geology and the local communities.” It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day in nature.

Bottom Line: An excellent, easy way to see Quebec’s spectacular fjord landscape for those with limited time or mobility concerns.

4. Fly over the City of Ottawa in a Helicopter

If aerial views are your thing, this helicopter tour offers an unforgettable 30-45 minute flight over Ottawa’s iconic sights. For around $163, you’ll soar past Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, and the Château Laurier, with opportunities to see Gatineau Park and the Ottawa River from above.

The guided flight is perfect for those who want a different perspective on Canada’s capital without the crowds. Reviews highlight the professionalism of pilots and the quality of the experience: “Coco was an amazing pilot and made us feel safe while giving us a spectacular view of the city.” The flight’s compact duration makes it a manageable addition to a busy day exploring the area.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a memorable, panoramic overview of Ottawa and Gatineau. Suitable for all ages and a great photo opportunity.

5. Quebec City – Electric Bike Rental on Ile d’Orléans

If you prefer exploring at your own pace, consider self-guided electric bike rentals. For around $46, you get four hours of freedom to craft your own route around Ile d’Orléans, a charming island with farms, historic buildings, and scenic views.

Reviewers love the flexibility, noting that the bikes are easy to handle and the suggested routes help maximize the experience. One said, “The countryside was quaint and beautiful — I’d gladly do this again.” The quiet roads and variety of stops allow you to enjoy fresh strawberries, visit a family-run berry farm, or simply soak in the river views.

Bottom Line: Perfect for independent travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a leisurely ride, especially if you enjoy making spontaneous stops.

6. Canadian Museum of History (Canadian Children’s Museum included)

For an indoor activity filled with culture, the Canadian Museum of History offers a deep dive into Canada’s story. For just over $20, you’ll explore exhibits on First Nations, explorers, and national history, including the famous totem pole collection.

The museum’s striking architecture matches its impressive collection of artifacts. Reviewers mention the engaging exhibits and the size of the Grand Hall, with one stating, “It’s a great introduction to Canada’s diverse history and the First Nations’ culture.” It’s a perfect rainy-day option or a family-friendly stop for those wanting a cultural break.

Bottom Line: A well-curated museum for those interested in Canada’s past, with exhibits that are engaging for all ages.

7. Cruise and Visit of Grosse-Ile

Step back into history on this cruise to Grosse-Ile, once the quarantine station for Irish immigrants fleeing famine. For about $85, you’ll take a boat ride across the Gulf of St. Lawrence, with a guided tour of the island’s historic quarantine station. Meet “nurse Sarah Wade” and learn about the struggles of the four million immigrants who passed through.

The boat cruise offers excellent views of the coastline, and the guided tour provides a personal touch. Travelers mention the emotional impact and well-organized schedule, with one saying, “It was a very moving experience, telling the stories of those who came through here.” It’s perfect for history buffs or those interested in Canadian immigration stories.

Bottom Line: An impactful, educational day trip that combines scenic cruising with heartfelt stories of early immigrants.

8. Quebec City – Scooter Rental on Ile d’Orléans

For a fun, active way to explore, rent a scooter on Ile d’Orléans. At around $103, you get four hours to discover the island’s villages, farms, and historic sites at your own pace. It’s suitable for beginners, with safety gear and maps provided, and the quiet roads make for a relaxed ride.

Reviews praise the experience, with one noting, “We had a spectacular time riding scooters around the island — the scenery, the stops, and the easy ride made it unforgettable.” The freedom to explore hidden corners or stick to popular spots makes this perfect for adventurous families or couples.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want flexibility and a memorable ride through beautiful rural scenery.

9. Ultimate Dog Sledding Tour – Day trip from Ottawa & Gatineau

Experience a quintessential Canadian winter activity with this dog sledding tour. For approximately $212, you spend 4.5 hours exploring snowy landscapes, meeting the dogs, and visiting a waterfall over 63 meters tall. The tour includes transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau, making it easy to join.

Reviews are glowing, with travelers saying, “The ride was exhilarating and the dogs adorable — it’s a highlight of our trip.” The chance to handle the sled and learn about the dogs makes it a hands-on, memorable event.

Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers and families wanting a true winter adventure and a taste of outdoor life.

10. E-bike Rental – 3 Hour Along the Shoreline Bike Path

Explore Saguenay’s scenic shoreline with this e-bike rental. For about $68, you get three hours of freedom to discover the Baie des Ha! Ha!, the fjord, and local viewpoints. The bikes are sturdy and easy to handle, with suggested routes available but flexibility encouraged.

Reviewers mention the quality of bikes and the beautiful scenery, like one who said, “Despite the wind, we enjoyed our ride around Saguenay — it’s a great way to experience the town.” Whether you want to visit the Musee du Fjord or just relax by the water, this activity offers a pleasant, active way to see the area.

Bottom Line: Suitable for most ages and fitness levels, especially if you appreciate scenic, self-paced exploration.

11. Quebec Craft Beer Tour – From Ottawa & Gatineau

Discover Quebec’s growing brewing scene on this craft beer tour in Gatineau. For $96.50, visit three microbreweries, including La Dérive, Gallicus, and 5e Baron. The tour includes tastings, insights into brewing processes, and a small-group atmosphere.

Reviews highlight the hospitality and quality of the beer, with one saying, “Brandon was an excellent guide, and the beers were fantastic — I learned a lot about Quebec’s brewing culture.” It’s perfect for beer lovers who want to sample local flavors in a relaxed setting.

Bottom Line: Great for beer enthusiasts interested in local craftsmanship and a fun social experience.

12. 1.5-Hour Guided Snowmobiling Adventure

This snowmobiling tour offers a quick, adrenaline-filled experience on Ile d’Orléans. For around $153, you’ll learn to drive your snowmobile with guidance, then explore snowy fields and views of Mont-Sainte-Anne and the Saint Lawrence River in a 90-minute ride.

Reviews praise the organization and beauty of the region, with one saying, “The staff was friendly, and the views were breathtaking — a fantastic winter activity.” It’s suitable for beginners, with safety instructions included, making it accessible for most.

Bottom Line: An energetic option for winter thrill-seekers who want a guided, scenic ride.

13. Montreal: Omega Park Canadian Wildlife Safari Adventure

Venture from Montreal for this wildlife safari. The 8.5-hour trip includes transportation, a private drive through Omega Park, and animal demonstrations. You get up-close encounters with bison, deer, wolves, and more, with the use of sound devices to observe their behaviors.

Reviews note the immersive experience, “The guides were passionate and made us feel connected with the animals,” and the chance to feed deer or see wolves in semi-natural habitats. It’s perfect for families and nature lovers wanting a full-day adventure.

Bottom Line: An educational and fun day out to see Canada’s iconic wildlife in a natural setting.

14. Petite Nation Wine & Cider Tour – Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau

Savor local flavors on this wine and cider tour. For $128, you’ll visit over 10 stops, tasting at Domaine Mont-Vezeau, Domaine de l’Hure Juste, and Verger Croque-Pomme. The tour includes a delicious, locally sourced lunch with wood-fired pizza.

Reviewers love the personalized experience and quality tastings: “Brandon and Geneviève made it memorable, and the cider was my new favorite,” said one. This tour is excellent for those who enjoy wine, cider, and regional food in a small-group setting.

Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies and wine lovers wanting a full day of tasting and regional discovery.

15. Ziplines over Laurentian Mountains at Mont-Catherine

For thrill-seekers, the zipline at Mont-Catherine offers long, exhilarating rides across the mountains. In about 3 hours, you’ll zip through four courses ranging from 1,800 to 3,200 feet long, with breathtaking views of the Laurentians. The professional guides ensure safety while creating an adventurous atmosphere suitable for ages 5 and up.

Reviewers describe the experience as “priceless,” with comments about the guides’ friendliness and the thrill of flying through the air. It’s perfect for families, adventure travelers, or anyone who wants to add some adrenaline to their Quebec trip.

Bottom Line: A top pick for active travelers and those craving spectacular mountain views from above.

How to Choose Your Perfect Quebec Tour

When selecting among these options, consider your budget, fitness level, interests, and time available. If you love outdoor sports and scenery, the snowshoeing or dog sledding offer authentic winter experiences. For a cultural fix, the Canadian Museum of History provides a great indoor alternative, while scenic flights like the Ottawa helicopter give a spectacular overview.

Self-guided options such as e-bike rentals and scooter rentals are fantastic for independent explorers. If you want a mix of activity and relaxation, join the craft beer tour or wine & cider excursions for a local flavor.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular winter activities like dog sledding or ziplines. Tailor your choice to your interests and energy level, and you’ll find memorable adventures waiting in Quebec.

In summary, Quebec offers a fantastic variety of tours and activities that showcase its natural beauty, history, and local culture. Whether you’re pedaling through island farms, zooming over mountain treetops, or learning about Canadian wildlife, you’ll find options tailored for every traveler. Consider your preferences, plan ahead, and most importantly — get out and enjoy what Quebec has to offer.