
Jonquière
Jonquière, Quebec: A city shaped by industry, boasting a unique planned heritage and a vibrant community spirit, with access to stunning natural lands...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

Jonquière
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Jonquière, Quebec: A city shaped by industry, boasting a unique planned heritage and a vibrant community spirit, with access to stunning natural landscapes.
"Discover the industrial heart and community soul of Jonquière, a unique Quebecois gem."

🚗 Explore Beyond the City
Consider renting a car to easily access surrounding natural attractions and charming towns in the Saguenay region.
🗣️ Basic French is Helpful
While many are bilingual, knowing a few French phrases enhances interactions with locals.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Aluminum City's Industrial Heart
Arvida sector
Explore the legacy of the aluminum industry that shaped this unique Quebec city. Discover its history and impact.

VIA Rail Scenic Journey
Jonquière Train Route
Experience breathtaking Canadian wilderness from the comfort of the VIA Rail train, a truly underrated scenic route.

Local Sports & Entertainment
Various venues
Catch a thrilling Marquis hockey game or cheer on the Nordiques volleyball team for a taste of local passion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Industrial Heritage
Plan for Seasonal Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Explore Beyond the City
Consider renting a car to easily access surrounding natural attractions and charming towns in the Saguenay region.
🗣️ Basic French is Helpful
While many are bilingual, knowing a few French phrases enhances interactions with locals.
🍽️ Taste Local Flavors
Don't miss trying regional specialties like tourtière and poutine at local eateries.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera for stunning views along the Saguenay Fjord and the picturesque landscapes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Explore Beyond the City
Consider renting a car to easily access surrounding natural attractions and charming towns in the Saguenay region.
🗣️ Basic French is Helpful
While many are bilingual, knowing a few French phrases enhances interactions with locals.
🍽️ Taste Local Flavors
Don't miss trying regional specialties like tourtière and poutine at local eateries.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera for stunning views along the Saguenay Fjord and the picturesque landscapes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often appreciate Jonquière's unique industrial heritage, particularly the planned city of Arvida, and the strong sense of local community. The scenic VIA Rail route is a highlight for those seeking natural beauty. Some find the city's industrial focus less appealing than more traditional tourist destinations.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jonquière is accessible by car via Quebec Route 170. The nearest major airport is Saguenay–Bagotville Airport (YBG), about a 30-minute drive away. VIA Rail also offers scenic train routes through the region, including a stop that can connect you to Jonquière.
Local bus services operate within Jonquière and connect to other parts of the Saguenay region. For exploring further afield, renting a car is recommended.
While public transport exists, a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Jonquière and the wider Saguenay region, including natural parks and smaller towns.
Yes, VIA Rail offers scenic train journeys that pass through the diverse regions of Quebec, including routes that serve the Saguenay area.
Jonquière is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive northeast of Quebec City, making it a feasible day trip or part of a longer itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many natural attractions and public spaces are free to access. Specific museums or event venues may have admission fees. It's best to check the individual attraction's website.
Operating hours can vary, especially for smaller shops and restaurants. It's advisable to check online or call ahead, particularly on Sundays and public holidays.
For popular events like Marquis hockey games, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for weekend matches or playoffs, to secure good seats.
While not as common as in larger cities, some local historical societies or tourism offices might offer guided tours, particularly focusing on the industrial heritage. Inquire locally.
Booking your VIA Rail tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability on the scenic routes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key sights include exploring the industrial heritage of Arvida, enjoying the scenic VIA Rail route, and experiencing local sports like hockey with the Jonquière Marquis.
Depending on the season, popular activities include hiking in nearby natural parks, cycling along designated trails, and winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing.
Absolutely! Jonquière offers diverse photographic opportunities, from its unique industrial landscapes and architecture to the stunning natural beauty of the Saguenay region.
Jonquière has a strong community feel, shaped by its industrial roots. It's a place that values its heritage while embracing modern life and local sports.
The Arvida sector is a significant historical site, showcasing the planned city built for aluminum production workers. Learning about its history provides great context.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss classic Quebecois dishes like poutine and tourtière. For a unique experience, try the chicken at Poulet Royal, which recently opened in Jonquière.
Yes, Jonquière offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries serving local favorites to restaurants like Poulet Royal offering specific cuisines.
Poulet Royal is a new addition to Jonquière's dining scene, offering a specific culinary experience. Exploring local bistros and diners will also yield delicious results.
While traditional Quebecois cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to inquire directly with the establishment.
Most restaurants serve lunch from around 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM and dinner from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM or later. Some may close between lunch and dinner.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique industrial architecture in Arvida, the scenic vistas along the VIA Rail route, and the vibrant atmosphere during local sports events.
The surrounding Saguenay region offers numerous viewpoints overlooking the fjord and forests, providing stunning opportunities for landscape photography.
Jonquière is excellent for industrial photography, urban exploration, capturing local life, and landscape photography in the broader Saguenay area.
Yes, passengers are generally allowed to take photos on the VIA Rail train, especially of the scenery outside the windows. Be mindful of other passengers.
Photographing the remnants of the planned city of Arvida and capturing the energy of a local hockey game are unique opportunities that showcase Jonquière's character.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Depending on the season, outdoor activities like easy hikes or visiting local community events can be fun. Checking the schedule for the Jonquière Marquis hockey games might also be a hit for families looking for some local excitement. Remember that while many locals are bilingual, having a few French phrases handy can be helpful for interactions.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
As a day trip from Quebec City or Saguenay city, Jonquière provides a glimpse into the province's industrial backbone and strong community spirit, especially evident at local sports events. Make sure to factor in time to explore the Arvida sector and perhaps enjoy some local Quebecois cuisine.
🏞️ Nature & Outdoor Enthusiasts
Winter transforms the area into a playground for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and other snow-based activities. Always check local conditions and trail accessibility before heading out for your outdoor adventures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Industrial Legacy of Arvida
Exploring Arvida allows visitors to understand the social and economic forces that shaped Jonquière. The architecture and layout of the city reflect the ambitions of its founders and the lives of its early residents. It's a fascinating area for those interested in industrial history and urban planning.
While the industrial landscape is a core part of Jonquière's story, the city has also evolved. Today, it balances its heritage with modern life, offering a unique cultural experience that goes beyond just its industrial roots.
Experiencing Jonquière's Community Spirit
Beyond hockey, other sports like volleyball also have a dedicated following, with teams like the Nordiques Volley showcasing local talent. These events are not just games; they are community gatherings that bring people together.
This community spirit is also reflected in how locals interact. While English is understood by many, particularly in tourist-oriented areas, making an effort with basic French phrases can greatly enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture.
Scenic Travel with VIA Rail
The journey itself becomes an attraction, showcasing the diverse beauty of Quebec. It's an opportunity to relax, disconnect, and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Canadian Shield. The train provides a comfortable and scenic way to travel through regions that highlight the country's natural grandeur.
Booking VIA Rail tickets in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you can experience this memorable and scenic mode of transport through the heart of Quebec.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit