Perched atop Cap Diamant, overlooking Old Québec and the St. Lawrence River, La Citadelle de Québec is more than a historic fortress. It’s still an active military base, home to the Royal 22ᵉ Régiment, and one of the city’s most fascinating National Historic Sites.
A visit here combines sweeping views, guided tours through centuries of history, and access to a museum that brings military heritage to life.
Getting Here
-
Address: 1 Côte de la Citadelle, Québec City, QC G1R 3R2
-
By Foot: Just a short walk from Old Québec landmarks like the Plains of Abraham and the Parliament Building.
-
Driving: Vehicle access via Côte de la Citadelle, right after the St. Louis Gate.
-
Parking: Free on-site parking is available (limit of ~2 hours).
-
Transit: Several RTC bus routes stop nearby. Check the RTC Quebec site for current schedules.
Hours & Tickets
-
Spring & Summer (May 17 – Sept 1, 2025): 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
-
Fall & Winter (Sept 2, 2025 onward): 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
-
The last guided tour usually starts around 4:00 PM.
Check the official hours here.
Admission (guided tour + museum):
-
Adult: $22 CAD
-
Senior (65+) / Student (18+): $20 CAD
-
Youth (11–17): $8 CAD
-
Children (10 & under): Free
-
Family Pass (2 adults + up to 3 children under 18): $50 CAD
What’s Included
Your ticket includes:
-
Guided Tour of the Fortress (60 mins): Walk the ramparts, learn about Québec’s defences, and discover life inside the fort.
-
Royal 22ᵉ Régiment Museum: Explore permanent exhibits such as “Je me souviens”, galleries of medals and stories, and rotating exhibitions inside the East Casemate.
For something extra, book the VIP Tour (90 mins) for deeper access to exclusive areas. Reservations recommended.
What You’ll See
-
Cap Diamant Views: Stunning panoramas over the city, river, and Plains of Abraham.
-
Historic Structures: The East Casemate, redoubts, ramparts, and the fortress walls.
-
Military Heritage: Learn about the Royal 22ᵉ Régiment, Canada’s only French-speaking infantry regiment.
-
Museum Collections: Uniforms, weapons, medals, personal stories, and art tied to military history.
Tips Before You Go
-
Tours Only: You can’t explore the site on your own — a guided tour is required.
-
Footwear: Wear good walking shoes; paths can be sloped or uneven.
-
Weather: It’s breezy up on Cap Diamant, so bring layers.
-
Language: Tours are offered in English and French at different times of day.
-
Accessibility: Some areas are accessible, though terrain may be challenging in parts.
-
Souvenirs: Don’t miss the small boutique for local and regimental gifts.
Getting Back
-
If you parked onsite, remember the 2-hour parking limit.
-
Easy walk back into Old Québec — Château Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace, and the ramparts are all nearby.
-
If using public transit, buses serving Old Québec run frequently; check the RTC Quebec Schedule.
Final Note:
La Citadelle de Québec is one of the rare places where history is still alive. You don’t just look at walls — you walk with a guide who explains centuries of defence, stories of soldiers, and the role of Québec in Canada’s past. With sweeping views, fascinating museum galleries, and the chance to stand inside an active fortress, it’s a highlight you won’t forget.