"Je me souviens | I remember"
About:
Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America. It served as a key location for French colonization, and later became a British stronghold after the Seven Years' War. In 1867, it became a part of the newly formed Dominion of Canada. Today, it's the capital of the province of Quebec, known for its rich history, preserved architecture, and French-speaking majority.
When to visit:
Quebec City, located in the province of Quebec, Canada, experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. The best time to visit this historic city on a holiday is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild and pleasant for exploring its charming streets and landmarks. The city comes alive with festivals and events during this time, offering visitors a vibrant cultural experience. However, if you prefer a winter wonderland experience, visiting Quebec City during the winter months when the city is blanketed in snow can also be a magical experience, especially during the festive holiday season.
When to avoid:
Quebec City experiences its peak tourism season during the summer months of June to August, attracting large crowds of visitors eager to explore its historic sites and enjoy outdoor activities. However, during the holiday season of Christmas and New Year, the city sees a significant increase in tourists due to its festive atmosphere and winter attractions. This surge in visitors can lead to higher prices for accommodation, longer wait times at popular attractions, and crowded streets. Travelers looking to avoid the crowds and potential price hikes may want to consider visiting Quebec City during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall when the weather is still pleasant but the tourist numbers are lower.
Winter (Dec - Mar)
During winter, Quebec City turns into a snowy wonderland. From December to February, temperatures often drop below freezing, averaging around -13°C, with January being the coldest month. Snowfall is abundant, with an average of 303 cm annually. Days are short, with only about 8 hours of daylight in December. Cloud cover is extensive, resulting in less sunshine. Despite the cold, the city is radiant, making it a picturesque destination for winter enthusiasts. An average day for a visitor might involve bundling up for a walk through the snow-laden streets, or enjoying winter activities like ice skating or snowboarding.
Summer (June-August)
The warmest part of the year in Quebec City, Canada, typically spans from late June to early September. During this period, the average high temperature ranges from 22°C (72°F) to 25°C (77°F), while the average low temperature is around 13°C (55°F) to 15°C (59°F).
Rainfall during these months is moderate, with July being the wettest month, averaging about 100mm. The city experiences an average of 7 to 8 hours of sunlight per day, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities. Humidity levels can vary, but they generally hover around 70%, which can make the air feel muggy on some days.
As for cloudiness, partly cloudy days are common, but there are also plenty of clear or mostly sunny days.
For a visitor, a typical day during this season would start with a mild morning, warming up to a pleasantly warm afternoon. There might be occasional rain showers, so carrying an umbrella or raincoat would be wise. Despite the humidity, the warmth is usually comfortable rather than oppressive. The long daylight hours allow for extended exploration and enjoyment of the city's attractions.
Language:
In Quebec City, the most commonly spoken language is French, as it is the official language of the province of Quebec. A significant majority of the population are monolingual French speakers. English is also spoken, particularly by tourists and in the business sector. Additionally, there are a small number of speakers of aboriginal languages.