Quebec City is the capital of the Canadian province of Quebec, and its second-largest city. Like most of the rest of the province, Quebec City is primarily a French-speaking city. Its amazing architecture and unique language give this Canadian provincial capital a decidedly European flair. Thinking of visiting Quebec? Don’t only go to Montreal. Experience all that Quebec City can offer you, and get the best travel medical insurance before you set off.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers visiting Quebec City – FAQs
While it is true that Canada offers excellent healthcare for its residents, you cannot depend on this as a visitor. You must have insurance that can cover you outside your home country when you travel internationally. For this reason, every prepared traveler buys travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Quebec City?
From a legal perspective, you don’t have to buy travel medical insurance to go to Quebec City or anywhere else in Canada. But keep in mind that treatment of any illness or injury could be you sole financial responsibility if you elect to go without it. Your domestic health insurance is unlikely to be of much help outside of your home country.
Why buy travel medical insurance before visiting Quebec City?
In addition to the cold weather, ice and snow that grips Quebec City for much of the year and its associated risks, it’s possible to hurt yourself or get sick in any location at any time. Don’t you want to have insurance that can cover you where you are? It’s far better to pay a small amount for travel medical insurance and be covered than it is to be stuck paying a huge amount for unexpected medical care abroad.
Quebec City’s Most Popular Activities
Quebec City’s French flair, friendly atmosphere, and historic surroundings make it ideal for solo trips, romantic getaways, history buffs, and far more. Discover just a few of the many enjoyable things to do in Quebec City below.
Walk The Continent’s Oldest Streets
The Streets of Old Quebec pack some 400 years of history. Stroll along as see sights like Château Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world, and Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec, an incredible cathedral with truly jaw-dropping architecture. Afterwards, head to Petit-Champlain to view art galleries and sample local flavors at the many bistros.
Explore Jacques-Cartier National Park
This natural Canadian paradise is a haven for outdoor lovers. Canoe and kayak along the quiet river. Get up close and personal with wildlife on over 60 miles of hiking trails. Pitch a tent in a relaxing campsite and take in the stars. And if its winter, bring your snowshoes and skis to see the wild Canadian backcountry of this glacial valley.
Experience Montmorency Falls
While most people have heard of Niagara Falls, Montmorency Falls are perhaps more impressive, and far taller. Located just a few minutes from downtown Quebec City, you can take a cable car to view of the falls and surrounding cityscape. Adrenaline junkies can even enjoy a zipline that gets you quite close to the rushing water. For those who’d rather take the view in from afar, the Manoir Montmorency offers a lovely restaurant and viewing terrace.
Have a Blast at Village Vacances Valcartier
This huge complex is eastern Canada’s largest waterpark, but it’s a lot more than that. There’s also an indoor waterpark that’s open year-round, and myriad activities like snow tubing in the winter. However, the crown jewel of Village Vacances Valcartier is the Ice Hotel. This temporary hotel is built entirely of ice, and you can even stay there for a night. Just keep in mind that you can only visit from January to March, after which the hotel will melt for the season.
Key Guidelines for Travelers visiting Quebec City
How Safe is Quebec City?
Quebec City is one of the safest cities in Canada, which is already a safe country to begin with. In other words, you shouldn’t have to use anything beyond basic precautions to feel safe here. This doesn’t mean you should completely let your guard down. Pickpocketing and other petty crimes are certainly possible, so be wary of your belongings at all times, especially near tourist attractions.
The Language Barrier
French is the most commonly spoken language in Quebec City. The vast majority of signage and information will also be in French. Is it a good idea to learn some basic French phrases? Absolutely. However, the residents are quite friendly, and most will switch to English if that’s all you speak. However, don’t assume that everyone speaks English in Quebec City. Only about a third of residents are fluent in it.
When to Visit
The most popular times to visit Quebec City are from June to September, and December to February. In the summer, the warm weather is a natural draw for tourists, and the winter is full of events and festivals. You can certainly visit any time of year, but keep in mind that the city’s calendar might not have as much going on during the shoulder seasons.
The Icy Weather
Quebec City starts getting cold in October, and it doesn’t truly let up until well into the following May. Visiting here outside of summer means bringing plenty of warm clothing, and insulated, waterproof footwear that grips well on snow.
Local Transportation
The best way to explore Quebec City is on foot. Most tourist attractions are in a relatively compact area, so there’s no need to rent a car or call a taxi in most cases. However, those who aren’t used to the cold may not relish walking in winter temperatures here. In that case, just take a Metrobus shuttle. They regularly provide service to most of the city’s attractions.
Before You Visit Quebec City – Do This
- If you plan to visit during one of the busier seasons, book your hotel well ahead of time to stay in the center of all the attractions.
- Bring a coat, gloves, and a hat if you’re visiting outside of the summer season. It gets quite cold here, especially if you aren’t used to it.
- Protect yourself from the unexpected with travel medical insurance .