Quebec City in the Rain: What to Do When the Weather Turns

Rain in Quebec City? Don’t let a little drizzle wash away your plans. This UNESCO-listed city is just as magical with an umbrella in hand—maybe even more so. From cozy cafés to grand historic interiors, here’s how to make the most of a rainy day in Old Quebec.

Start Indoors: Parliament Building or Citadel Tour

If you're caught in a morning shower, take refuge inside one of Quebec’s most iconic landmarks. The National Assembly offers free guided tours (in French and English), where you can explore the ornate chambers and learn about Quebec’s political past.

Prefer a military twist? Book a tour of the Citadel, a working military base and the largest British fortress in North America. Its thick stone walls and museum exhibits make for a dry, fascinating start to the day.

Soak in the Atmosphere (Not the Rain) on Rue Saint-Jean

Rain or shine, Rue Saint-Jean is one of Old Quebec’s liveliest streets. Many of its shops, galleries, and cafés are tucked under charming awnings or within covered arcades. Duck into Érico, a chocolate museum and boutique, or browse the independent bookstores and Quebec-made souvenirs.

For a mid-morning pick-me-up, stop by Cantook Micro Roastery, one of the best coffee shops in the city.

Spend the Afternoon in a Museum

Quebec City has a surprisingly rich museum scene for its size. Two great rainy-day picks:

• Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ) – Located on the edge of the Plains of Abraham, this museum showcases an impressive collection of Quebec art, from classical to contemporary. The Pierre Lassonde Pavilion, with its dramatic modern design and expansive windows, is a great contrast to the historic vibe of Old Quebec—and it’s easily reachable by bus or a short walk.

  
  

• Musée de la Civilisation – Engaging and interactive, with rotating exhibitions and plenty of local insight, this Lower Town museum is a favorite for visitors of all ages.

Both options are ideal for escaping the rain while soaking up culture.

Afternoon Pause: Cozy Up in a Café

Old Quebec is full of snug cafés perfect for reading, writing postcards, or chatting over a hot drink. Try:

• La Maison Smith (Place‑Royale or Jardin) – Charming and historic, with large windows that let in the gray daylight while keeping you dry.

• Café-Bistro Chez Temporel – A friendly café tucked into one of Old Quebec’s cobblestone alleys, known for excellent coffee and comforting pastries.

Evening Magic: Rainy Strolls & traditionnal Dinner

If the skies clear by early evening, take a stroll along the Dufferin Terrace for dramatic views of the river cloaked in mist. If it’s still raining, the terrace’s covered section still gives you a taste of the view.

End your day at La Bûche, a warm and rustic sugar-shack-inspired spot with Quebec classics like tourtière and maple salmon. The ambiance alone makes it a perfect rainy-day dinner.

Take in a Different Kind of View

If the rain eases up in the evening, wrap up your day with a peaceful walk to the Governors’ Garden behind the Château Frontenac. Even under low clouds or drizzle, the views of the river and the city are beautifully moody—and it’s often quieter at night.

Embrace the Weather

Some destinations feel diminished by bad weather. Québec City isn’t one of them. Its intimate scale, European architecture, and warm hospitality make it a beautiful place to explore—even in the rain. The cobblestone streets shine, the rooftops glisten, and the city feels even more atmospheric.

And if you're wondering how to make the most of it, why not join one of Urban Horizons’ walking tours? Rain or shine, we dive into the city’s rich history, hidden corners, and surprising stories—with plenty of stops under shelter to keep things cozy. So grab your umbrella, slip on your walking shoes, and let the weather set the scene for a truly memorable day in Québec.

The Chateau Frontenac in the rain