Château Frontenac
A historic, castle-like landmark in Old Quebec City, offering luxurious stays, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Château Frontenac
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, castle-like landmark in Old Quebec City, offering luxurious stays, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.
"Staying at Canada's most famous castle truly feels like stepping into a fairytale."
📸 Most Photographed Hotel
It's called the most photographed hotel for a reason! Capture its grandeur from Dufferin Terrace.
☕️ High Tea Indulgence
Enjoy an elegant High Tea experience; don't eat too much beforehand!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
Old Quebec City
An iconic, castle-like landmark offering breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and Old Quebec.
Dufferin Terrace
In front of the hotel
A vibrant boardwalk with stunning river views, perfect for strolls and people-watching.
Bar 1608
Hotel Lobby
Sip expertly crafted cocktails in a luxurious setting with impressive views.
High Tea Experience
Hotel Dining Room
Indulge in an elegant afternoon tea with delicate pastries and a selection of fine teas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Seasons
Experience Beyond the Room
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Most Photographed Hotel
It's called the most photographed hotel for a reason! Capture its grandeur from Dufferin Terrace.
☕️ High Tea Indulgence
Enjoy an elegant High Tea experience; don't eat too much beforehand! +1
🚶♀️ Explore Without Staying
Wander the lobby, dine, or enjoy cocktails if a room isn't in the budget.
❄️ Winter Wonderland
Quebec City transforms into a magical snow globe in winter.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Most Photographed Hotel
It's called the most photographed hotel for a reason! Capture its grandeur from Dufferin Terrace.
☕️ High Tea Indulgence
Enjoy an elegant High Tea experience; don't eat too much beforehand! +1
🚶♀️ Explore Without Staying
Wander the lobby, dine, or enjoy cocktails if a room isn't in the budget.
❄️ Winter Wonderland
Quebec City transforms into a magical snow globe in winter.
📜 Hotel History Tours
Take a guided tour to learn about the hotel's rich history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise the hotel's stunning architecture, prime location in Old Quebec, and the exceptional service provided by its friendly and efficient staff. Many describe their stay as a fairytale experience, highlighting the historical ambiance and beautiful views. However, some guests have noted that certain dining experiences, like the Sunday brunch, can be inconsistent, and a few have found their stay to be 'just okay' rather than 'memorable' for the price.
"Beautiful old hotel. The hotel tour will tell you the history. The concierge can set you up with a great city tour as well that leaves from the park directly in front of the hotel with excellent guides. In general the concierges are helpful and reasonably knowledgeable. There is a pool that is more for kids due to size and the crowded it can get. The outdoor patio is nice. Beautiful fireworks on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 10:00pm until 10:20. Get down at least 30 minutes before in order to get an unobstructed view. You can see most of it even if you are back a bit. Seemed very safe an secure. Room was spacious and very clean. Staff was very pleasant. Very enjoyable experience."
Jim Preissler
"Always a wonderful stay. Overall, our stay at the hotel was very good. Leo at the front desk was very helpful and secured a room for us that was very nice. Air conditioning was good as was the servicing of the room. The property is well maintained but I understand that they can't keep on top of all the guests.
We tried the Sunday Morning Brunch at Champlain as it had been described as a wonderful brunch. Unfortunately, we didn't have the best experience as they ran out of certain foods shortly after opening. One of the servers said that the morning guests had taken too much food, not something we wanted to hear. Roxanne jumped in and attempted to resolve the issue and for the most part we were all happy.
The location can't be beat if you want to be in the center of the experience. In a few short minutes you are on the boardwalk and everything is right there.
I am a Marriott Ambassador but would gladly stay here again even without the higher level status as they treat all of their guests well.y"
Evan Kontos
"My stay was average. We did have no conditioner in our room, but we were serviced promptly in the evening. Also, we had issues turning on one of the lights in the room, but the service attendant was able to assist. We were glad to see we were gifted a few sweet treats for my birthday after our walk around town. It was a decent stay, but I have had better and expected more from a well-known establishment. I was looking for that awe factor, but it was just okay. We did eat dinner at La Sam the evening after to celebrate, but it was also okay. The staff were friendly, but I had to send back my steak for being overcooked. Not sure if I would recommend this place to colleagues, just for the experience maybe, but wouldn't go out of my way to say this is the place you should stay, so to speak. I noticed the award at check-in, but I just didn't feel it was memorable for my birthday, and I really expected more, as I planned for this ahead of time as an out-of-the-country guest."
Arron Paulino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Fairmont Le Château Frontenac from Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) is by taxi or rideshare, which takes about 30-40 minutes. Public transport involves multiple bus transfers and is significantly longer. Many visitors arrive by train or bus to the city's central station, which is a short taxi ride away.
Absolutely! Chateau Frontenac is centrally located in Old Quebec, making it incredibly walkable to major attractions like the Plains of Abraham, Petit Champlain District, and Place Royale. 
Driving to the hotel is possible, but parking in Old Quebec can be challenging and expensive. The hotel offers valet parking. Consider parking at a nearby public garage and walking if you prefer to save on costs.
Yes, several bus routes stop near the hotel, providing access to other parts of Quebec City. The Funicular also connects the Upper Town (near the hotel) to the Lower Town.
The hotel is easily accessible by car for drop-off. For those arriving by public transport, taxis and rideshares are readily available to take you directly to the hotel entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need a ticket to enter the public areas of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, such as the lobby, shops, and some restaurants. However, a room reservation is required to access guest floors and amenities like the pool.
Room rates vary significantly based on the season, room type, and availability. Prices can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars per night. It's best to check the official Fairmont website or booking platforms for current rates.
Yes, guided historical tours are often available for a fee, offering insights into the hotel's architecture and storied past. Check with the concierge upon arrival for schedules and booking information.
The hotel itself is open 24/7 for guests. Public areas like the lobby and restaurants have their own operating hours, which can be found on the hotel's official website.
Yes, you can visit the public areas of the hotel, including the lobby and some dining establishments, without a room reservation. This allows you to experience its grandeur even if you're not a guest.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic views are from Dufferin Terrace, offering a panoramic perspective. The streets of Old Quebec, especially Rue du Petit-Champlain, also provide charming angles. +1
Yes, you are welcome to take photos in the public areas of the hotel, such as the lobby and restaurants. For professional photoshoots, specific permissions and fees may apply.
Absolutely! The hotel is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Dufferin Terrace offers excellent vantage points for capturing its illuminated facade.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offers beautiful, soft light. However, the hotel is stunning at any time, including during the day with its impressive architecture and at night when it's lit up.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted in public areas. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other guests and avoid intrusive photography, especially in private areas or during events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hotel boasts several dining venues, including the upscale Champlain restaurant, the more casual Bistro Le Sam, and Bar 1608 for cocktails and light fare. High Tea is also a popular experience. +1
Reviews for the Sunday Brunch are mixed. While some find it wonderful, others have experienced issues with food availability shortly after opening. It can be a hit or miss.
Yes, you can make reservations for the restaurants and bars within the hotel, even if you are not a guest. This is a great way to experience the hotel's ambiance.
For fine dining restaurants like Champlain, smart casual attire is generally recommended. Bar 1608 is more relaxed. It's always best to check the specific restaurant's policy.
While the hotel's dining can be pricey, Old Quebec offers numerous bistros, cafes, and restaurants with a range of price points. Exploring the side streets can lead to delicious and more budget-friendly finds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a room with a view to keep children entertained. While the hotel's pool is noted as being more for kids due to its size and potential for crowds, it can still be a fun amenity. Exploring Old Quebec's cobblestone streets and nearby attractions like the Aquarium du Québec can round out a family-friendly itinerary.
💍 Honeymooners & Couples
Consider booking a room with a view of the St. Lawrence River or Old Quebec for added romance. Enjoying a cocktail at Bar 1608 or indulging in the High Tea experience are delightful activities for couples. The hotel's central location also makes it easy to explore the romantic streets of Old Quebec hand-in-hand.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't limit yourself to the exterior; the hotel's interior, with its elegant lobby and ornate details, is also highly photogenic. Explore the surrounding streets of Old Quebec for charming perspectives that include the Chateau in the background. Night photography is particularly rewarding as the hotel is beautifully illuminated.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Visitors can delve deeper into this rich past through guided tours offered by the hotel. These tours often highlight architectural details, historical anecdotes, and famous guests. The hotel's location overlooking the St. Lawrence River also places it at the heart of Quebec City's historical fortifications, offering a tangible connection to its past.
Experiencing the history is as simple as walking through its grand halls or enjoying a drink at Bar 1608, which itself has a storied past. The hotel's enduring elegance and commitment to preserving its heritage make it a captivating destination for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Experiencing the Magic Without a Room
Dining at one of the hotel's restaurants, such as the renowned Champlain or the chic Bistro Le Sam, offers a taste of its luxury. Even a cocktail at Bar 1608, known for its impressive selection and ambiance, provides a memorable experience. For those seeking a more structured immersion, guided tours are available, detailing the hotel's history and architectural marvels.
These options allow travelers to soak in the atmosphere, admire the views, and appreciate the grandeur of this iconic landmark without the commitment of a hotel stay. It's a way to touch the fairytale, even if you're not sleeping in the castle.
Winter Charm and Festive Spirit
The festive atmosphere extends to the hotel itself, with decorations and a cozy ambiance that invites guests to relax and enjoy the season. Outdoor activities like ice skating and exploring the charming, snow-dusted streets of Old Quebec are popular. The hotel's proximity to winter attractions makes it an ideal base for a festive getaway.
While the winter months can be cold, the warmth and charm of the Chateau Frontenac and Quebec City make it a highly sought-after destination for a memorable winter escape. The iconic views are even more breathtaking against a backdrop of snow.
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