Place d'Youville - Montmartre Village building during daytime
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Place d'Youville

4.6
·491k reviews·Québec, Canada

A charming public square in Old Quebec, famous for its vibrant winter ice skating rink and festive atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Magical lights and festive vibes

CrowdMedium
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Place d'Youville - Montmartre Village building during daytime

Place d'Youville

Best Time

Winter evenings

Magical lights and festive vibes

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming public square in Old Quebec, famous for its vibrant winter ice skating rink and festive atmosphere.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Glide through a winter wonderland at Place d'Youville's iconic ice rink!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⛸️ Bring your skates!

While rentals might be available, bringing your own skates saves time and ensures a perfect fit for your skating fun.

🧣 Dress warmly

Quebec winters are cold! Layer up with warm clothing, hats, and gloves for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ice Skating Rink

Ice Skating Rink

Place d'Youville

Glide across the ice in the heart of Old Quebec, surrounded by historic architecture. A quintessential winter experience!

Festive Atmosphere

Festive Atmosphere

Place d'Youville

Experience the vibrant holiday spirit with seasonal decorations and a lively ambiance. Perfect for festive outings.

Proximity to Old Quebec

Proximity to Old Quebec

Old Quebec

Step right into the historic charm of Old Quebec, with its cobblestone streets and iconic landmarks just moments away.

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Planning Your Visit

Winter Wonderland Fun

Place d'Youville transforms into a magical winter hub, especially known for its ice skating rink. It's a prime spot for festive activities during the holiday season. Plan for cold weather and embrace the snowy charm of Quebec City.

Location & Accessibility

Nestled in Old Quebec, Place d'Youville is easily accessible and surrounded by historic charm. It's a great starting point for exploring the walled city, with many attractions within walking distance. Consider public transport or walking to avoid parking hassles.

Best Times

When
Winter evenings
Why
Magical lights and festive vibes
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday season
Why
Christmas markets & cheer
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more skating
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Idées d’activités en extérieur à faire en hiver à Québec city 📍 #bonplan #quebeccity #canada_life🇨🇦 #creatorsearchinsights #pourtoi #fyyp
@lima_coulibaly
9.3K likes • 199.9K views

⛸️ Bring your skates!

While rentals might be available, bringing your own skates saves time and ensures a perfect fit for your skating fun. TikTokInstagram

🧣 Dress warmly

Quebec winters are cold! Layer up with warm clothing, hats, and gloves for a comfortable outdoor experience. TikTok

Things to Do in Quebec City in Holiday Season🎄✨ 📌 SAVE & SHARE with your travel buddies! ACTIVITIES TO DO 🎅🏻 German Christmas Market (Nov 23 to Dec 23) 🎄 Boutique de Nöel ⛸️ Ice skating at Place d’Youville 🛷 Toboggan Slide STREETS TO WALK 📍Place Royal 📍Grande Allèe 📍Rue Dalhouse 📍Rue Saint-Jean 📍Umbrella Alley 📍Rue Saint-Anne 📍Rue Notre-Dame 📍Rue Sous Le-Fort 📍Rue du Cul-de-Sac 📍Côte de la Mont...
@explore_with_naz
8.1K likes • 194.3K views
Le saviez-vous ? Le restaurant est situé tout près de la place D'Youville à Québec ! 🤩 #beffroisteakhouse #hotelpalaceroyal #leshotelsjaro #hotel #quebec #quebeccity #event #night #ambiance #oldquebec #restaurant #meatlover #discover #restoqc #vieuxquebec #wow #villedequebec
beffroisteakhouse
11 likes • 785 views

📸 Capture the magic

The illuminated rink and surrounding historic buildings make for stunning photos, especially at night. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore nearby streets

Place d'Youville is a gateway to Old Quebec's charming streets, perfect for a post-skate stroll. TikTokInstagram

Skating at Place D'Youville in Quebec City with my extremely talented friends.
jasonott65
187 likes • 7.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⛸️ Bring your skates!

While rentals might be available, bringing your own skates saves time and ensures a perfect fit for your skating fun. TikTokInstagram

🧣 Dress warmly

Quebec winters are cold! Layer up with warm clothing, hats, and gloves for a comfortable outdoor experience. TikTok

📸 Capture the magic

The illuminated rink and surrounding historic buildings make for stunning photos, especially at night. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore nearby streets

Place d'Youville is a gateway to Old Quebec's charming streets, perfect for a post-skate stroll. TikTokInstagram

⏰ Check operating hours

Confirm rink hours, especially around holidays, to make the most of your visit. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Place d'Youville for its enchanting winter atmosphere, particularly the popular ice skating rink. It's a beloved spot for families and couples seeking festive fun in the heart of Old Quebec. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is highly rated for its charm and accessibility to other historic attractions.

What People Like

Magical winter ambiance
Free ice skating
Historic setting

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Place d'Youville is centrally located in Old Quebec. You can easily reach it by walking if you're staying in the historic district. Public buses also serve the area. If driving, be aware that parking can be challenging; consider parking garages slightly further out and walking. Reddit

Parking directly at Place d'Youville can be limited. Several parking garages are available in the Old Quebec area, such as the Parliament Building underground parking or the Saint-Roch parking lot, which are a short walk away. Reddit

Yes, Place d'Youville is a pleasant walk from the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, taking approximately 15-20 minutes through the charming streets of Old Quebec. Instagram

Walking is the best way to explore Old Quebec, including Place d'Youville, as it allows you to soak in the historic atmosphere. Public transport is also available for longer distances. TikTok

While there aren't specific shuttle services directly to Place d'Youville, the city's public transit system (RTC) offers routes that stop nearby, making it accessible via bus. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Place d'Youville itself is free. Skating on the rink is also typically free, though there might be a small fee for skate rentals if you don't bring your own. TikTok

The operating hours for the Place d'Youville skating rink can vary, especially during the holiday season. It's best to check the official Quebec City tourism website or local event listings for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Skate rentals are often available at the Place d'Youville rink during the winter season. However, it's advisable to confirm availability and pricing beforehand, as it can be popular. TikTok

No, Place d'Youville is a public square and does not have an admission fee. You can visit and enjoy the atmosphere at any time. Instagram

Yes, Place d'Youville often hosts festive events during the winter, including Christmas markets and special holiday programming, making it a lively destination. TikTok

🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience

The main attraction at Place d'Youville in winter is the popular ice skating rink. It's also a great spot to enjoy the festive ambiance and is surrounded by historic buildings. Instagram+1

The rink is generally suitable for all skill levels. Beginners might find it helpful to go during less crowded times or hold onto the side barriers. Instagram

For a less crowded experience, try visiting on weekday mornings or afternoons. Evenings offer a magical atmosphere with lights, but can be busier. TikTokInstagram

Public restrooms are typically available near the skating rink facilities during the winter season. It's always a good idea to check for their exact location upon arrival. TikTok

While there are no strict rules against it, it's generally best to consume food and drinks away from the immediate skating area to keep the ice clean. Nearby cafes and restaurants offer plenty of options. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The illuminated ice rink at night is a prime photo spot. The surrounding historic architecture of Old Quebec also provides a beautiful backdrop for memorable shots. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The snow-covered square, the twinkling lights, and the charming buildings create a picturesque winter scene perfect for photography. TikTok

Golden hour just before sunset offers beautiful light, while nighttime provides a magical ambiance with the rink lights. Both offer distinct photographic opportunities. Instagram

Try capturing the skaters in motion with the historic buildings in the background, or focus on the reflections of the lights on the ice for a unique perspective. Instagram

For night shots, use a tripod if possible to avoid blur. A wider aperture and a slightly longer exposure time can help capture the ambient light and skaters. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Place d'Youville is a fantastic destination for families, especially during winter. The ice skating rink is a major draw, offering a fun activity for children of all ages. Many parents share heartwarming moments of their children's first skating experiences here. Instagram It's advisable to visit during off-peak hours on weekdays to avoid large crowds and give younger children more space to learn and play. Remember to dress children in warm layers, including hats and mittens, as the cold can be intense. The festive atmosphere during the holiday season also adds an extra layer of magic for younger visitors. TikTok+1

couples

For couples, Place d'Youville offers a wonderfully romantic winter setting. Imagine skating hand-in-hand under the twinkling lights of Old Quebec, followed by a stroll through the charming, snow-dusted streets. Instagram The festive ambiance during the holiday season, with potential Christmas markets nearby, adds to the intimate and charming experience. Consider visiting in the early evening to enjoy the magical illumination of the square and rink. It's a perfect spot for creating cherished memories together. Instagram

Budget Travelers

Place d'Youville is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. The square itself is free to access, and ice skating is typically free as well, provided you bring your own skates. TikTok This offers a significant saving compared to paid attractions. While skate rentals incur a small fee, it's still an affordable way to enjoy a classic winter activity. Exploring the surrounding historic streets of Old Quebec on foot is also a free and rewarding experience. Pack your own snacks and drinks to further minimize expenses. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Embracing the Winter Magic

Place d'Youville truly comes alive during the winter months, transforming into a festive hub for locals and tourists alike. The centerpiece is its popular ice skating rink, which offers a quintessential Quebec City winter experience. Many visitors, including families with young children, find joy in gliding across the ice, often surrounded by the enchanting glow of holiday lights. The atmosphere is often described as magical and heartwarming, making it a must-visit during the colder season. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond skating, the square often hosts seasonal events, such as Christmas markets, adding to its charm. These events provide opportunities to sample local treats, find unique gifts, and soak in the vibrant holiday spirit. The surrounding historic architecture of Old Quebec provides a stunning backdrop, making every moment feel like stepping into a postcard. It's a place where you can create lasting memories, whether you're a seasoned skater or trying it for the first time. TikTokInstagram

When planning your visit, remember that Quebec City winters can be quite cold. Dressing in warm layers is crucial for comfort. While skate rentals are usually available, bringing your own ensures a better fit and can save time. The square is also a fantastic photography spot, especially after dark when the lights illuminate the ice and buildings, creating a truly picturesque scene. TikTokInstagram

Navigating Old Quebec and Parking

Place d'Youville is strategically located within the historic walled city of Old Quebec, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the area's rich heritage. Many iconic landmarks, charming streets, and popular attractions are within easy walking distance. This walkability is a significant advantage, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the European-style ambiance of the city. TikTokInstagram

However, parking in Old Quebec can be a challenge. Streets are often narrow, and parking spots are limited and can be expensive. For those arriving by car, it's recommended to utilize public parking garages located slightly outside the immediate vicinity of Place d'Youville. Garages like the Parliament Building underground parking or those in the Saint-Roch district are good options, though they require a short walk to reach the square. This approach helps avoid the stress of searching for scarce street parking and allows for a more relaxed exploration of the area. Reddit

When exploring on foot, wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven. Consider the public transportation system (RTC) for longer distances within the city, as it provides a convenient way to get around without the hassle of parking. Ultimately, embracing the pedestrian-friendly nature of Old Quebec is key to fully enjoying your visit to Place d'Youville and its surroundings. TikTok

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