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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical lights and festive vibes
Place d'Youville
Best Time
Magical lights and festive vibes

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming public square in Old Quebec, famous for its vibrant winter ice skating rink and festive atmosphere.
"Glide through a winter wonderland at Place d'Youville's iconic ice rink!"
⛸️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Location & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛸️ 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.
📸 Capture the magic
The illuminated rink and surrounding historic buildings make for stunning photos, especially at night.
🚶♀️ Explore nearby streets
Place d'Youville is a gateway to Old Quebec's charming streets, perfect for a post-skate stroll.
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.
🧣 Dress warmly
Quebec winters are cold! Layer up with warm clothing, hats, and gloves for a comfortable outdoor experience.
📸 Capture the magic
The illuminated rink and surrounding historic buildings make for stunning photos, especially at night.
🚶♀️ Explore nearby streets
Place d'Youville is a gateway to Old Quebec's charming streets, perfect for a post-skate stroll.
⏰ Check operating hours
Confirm rink hours, especially around holidays, to make the most of your visit.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, Place d'Youville often hosts festive events during the winter, including Christmas markets and special holiday programming, making it a lively destination.
🎫 ⛸️ 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.
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.
For a less crowded experience, try visiting on weekday mornings or afternoons. Evenings offer a magical atmosphere with lights, but can be busier.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Absolutely! The snow-covered square, the twinkling lights, and the charming buildings create a picturesque winter scene perfect for photography.
Golden hour just before sunset offers beautiful light, while nighttime provides a magical ambiance with the rink lights. Both offer distinct photographic opportunities.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
couples
Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Embracing the Winter Magic
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.
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.
Navigating Old Quebec and Parking
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.
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.
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