Where Can You Sleep in a Castle, Ice Hotel & Monastery (5 Famous Hotels in Québec City)

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Here are five famous hotels in Québec City that must be on your travel radar for an unforgettable Quebecois experience in an iconic Canadian city.

As someone who caught the travel bug at age six when my family moved to Germany, I’ve been fortunate to explore some of the world’s most fascinating destinations. But there’s something truly special about Québec City that keeps drawing me back. Having visited in both the crisp late spring and magical winter seasons, I’m excited to share my first-hand experience with five extraordinary hotels that capture the essence of this enchanting city.

Ice Hotel Quebec City

Many thanks to Québec City Tourism Office for sponsoring my recent trip. While this post is sponsored, all opinions are authentically mine, shaped by multiple visits to this captivating city.

Why You Need to Visit Québec City

The moment you step onto the cobblestone streets of Québec City, you’re transported to a pocket of Europe in North America. Trust me – as someone who spent her early years in Germany, the European resemblance here is striking and authentic. From the fortified walls to the stunning architecture, you’ll find yourself immersed in a setting that beautifully blends French and British colonial influences.

Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain along the St. Lawrence River, Québec City stands as North America’s first European settlement north of Mexico. The Old Town (Vieux-Québec) earned its UNESCO World Heritage status in 1985, and walking through its preserved 17th-century streets feels like stepping into a living museum.

There are so many amazing things to do in Québec City that you’ll want to return over and over again! Wouldn’t it be fun to stay at all five of the fantastic hotels in Québec City?!

From historic to boutique to cultural and even ice, Québec City offers a broad range of hotels that cater to comfort, experience, hospitality, and charm. If you’re wondering where to stay when you visit, here are five of the best hotels in Québec City that you will thoroughly enjoy.

hotel frontenac in winter

5 Famous Hotels in Québec City You Will Love

Having experienced all of these properties both as a guest and visitor, I can confidently say each offers something unique. From sleeping in a castle to cozying up in an ice suite, here’s my personal take on where to stay in Québec City.

You’ll want to return to Québec City over and over again so that you can stay at all five of these famous hotels in Québec City.

Hôtel Le Manoir d’Auteuil

Hôtel Le Manoir d’Auteuil: My Favorite Boutique Experience

During our recent winter trip, we spent several nights at this charming boutique hotel, and I can’t recommend it enough. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, Le Manoir d’Auteuil perfectly balances historic charm with modern comfort.

What I Loved

  • Prime location for exploring Old Québec
  • Our Superior King Room’s Murphy bed made it perfect for family stays
  • The art deco details and original woodwork throughout
  • Complimentary coffee and tea available all day
  • Thoughtful touches like the boot-cleaning station for snowy days
  • Incredibly helpful staff who carried our bags up (no elevator, but worth it!)
bedroom in Hôtel Le Manoir d’Auteuil

Good to Know

  • Perfect for families, couples, or girlfriend getaways
  • Located on the third floor, our room required climbing stairs
  • Each of the 33 rooms has unique character
  • Their breakfast is delicious
take your boots off at the Hôtel Le Manoir d’Auteuil

There’s no elevator so they were kind enough to carry our suitcases up to our third floor room. I also enjoyed the slippers and washcloths they provided in the common area for us to clean our snow books. We also appreciated the ideal location close to Old Québec which allowed us to easily explore the city’s iconic landmarks like the Place d’Youville and the Notre Dame Cathedral, cobblestone streets, and quaint shops. 

Book Hôtel Le Manoir d’Auteuil here.

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First nations musueum and Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations

Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations: Cultural Immersion at Its Finest

My stay here was a highlight of my Québec experiences. Located in Wendake, about 15-20 minutes from downtown and just 15 minutes from the Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport, this isn’t just a hotel – it’s a cultural journey. The property celebrates the rich heritage of the Huron-Wendat First Nation in every detail.

What Makes It Special:

This hotel was built as part of a larger initiative to promote Indigenous tourism and showcase the rich heritage of the Huron-Wendat people. It serves as a tribute to the rich heritage and traditions of the Huron-Wendat First Nation and is helping to bring awareness to First Nation issues accross Quebec and Canada.

  • Architecture inspired by traditional Huron-Wendat longhouses
  • Fascinating on-site museum included with your stay
  • La Traite restaurant serves incredible Indigenous cuisine
  • Staff who genuinely share their culture
  • Perfect location between city and airport (15 minutes to each)
guest room at Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations

The hotel’s design draws inspiration from traditional Huron-Wendat longhouses and incorporates elements of Indigenous art, symbolism, and craftsmanship throughout its architecture and decor. 

It’s more than a hotel though. It’s a space where visitors can learn about and experience Indigenous culture firsthand while also providing economic opportunities for the local community.  

common area at Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations

The dinner and breakfast I enjoyed at La Traite were some of the most memorable meals of my Quebec travels. The cultural authenticity and attention to detail here are unmatched.

Read more about that meal in my related article: 17 Must Try Famous Foods in Québec.

Add this hotel to your list! You will have a truly unforgettable cultural experience when you stay here.

Book Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations in Wendake here.

hotel de glace

Ice Hotel – Hôtel de Glace

While I haven’t stayed overnight here (yes, I’ll admit I’m not quite that brave!), I took an extensive guided tour of this architectural marvel. Part of Village Vacances Valcartier, this unique hotel was inspired by the famous Ice Hotel in Sweden and is built new each winter:

  • 2,400 blocks of ice
  • 35,000 tons of snow
  • Incredible artistic detail in every room

Fascinating Features of the Hôtel de Glace

  • 30+ uniquely designed rooms
  • Constant 23°F (-5°C) temperature
  • Ice bar serving drinks in ice glasses
  • Private hot tubs for some suites
  • Backup rooms in the heated main hotel
movie themed room at the Hotel de Glace

Even if you don’t stay overnight, I highly recommend taking a tour. The artistry is breathtaking, and it’s a truly unique North American experience.

In the evening, visitors leave, warm sleeping bags are placed on the beds, and overnight guests start their process of warming up their bodies through saunas and hot tubs so they stay warm during the cold night. Some rooms even come with a private hot tub (outdoors of course!)

During our visit to Québec City, we didn’t stay here, but we did have a guided tour. I can tell you, this hotel was cold! Room temperatures are a steady 23F (-5C) regardless of how cold it is outside. It’s located behind a heated hotel though, and all Ice Hotel guests also have a room inside the main hotel where they leave their luggage and can shower. Our guide said most people make it through the night however, and thoroughly enjoy their once in a lifetime stay at a frozen hotel. 

having an ice drink at the hotel de glace

Beyond its stunning architecture and unique accommodations, the Hôtel de Glace offers a range of activities and experiences, including tours, ice sculpting workshops, an ice bar serving speciality drinks served in ice glasses, and ice slide, and even wedding ceremonies.

There are also a lot of family friendly winter activities at Village Vacances Valcartier, including 35 snow slides, extreme sledding, ice skating paths, and the huge indoor water park, Bora Parc. The Hôtel de Glace is a must-visit destination for adventure and romance lovers in the heart of winter!

Book Hôtel de Glace here.

The Hotel at Monastère des Augustines

Monastère des Augustines: A Serene Wellness Retreat

While I didn’t stay overnight at the Monastère des Augustines, I had the privilege of touring the property and enjoying a memorable dinner here during my winter visit. This isn’t just a hotel – it’s a piece of living history transformed into a wellness sanctuary. Housed in the restored Hôtel-Dieu de Québec monastery, which was North America’s first hospital north of Mexico, this unique property perfectly balances its historic roots with modern wellness concepts.

sloping staircase at The Hotel at Monastère des Augustines

What Makes It Special:

  • Thoughtfully restored historic buildings
  • Focus on holistic wellness and mindfulness
  • Peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the city
  • Organic, locally-sourced restaurant
  • Rich historical significance

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Dining Experience

One of my trip highlights was dinner at the monastery’s restaurant. The commitment to mindful eating and local ingredients was evident in every dish. If you’re interested in wellness and history, I highly recommend at least dining here, even if you choose to stay elsewhere.

Wellness Programs

After a long day of dog sledding and touring, I was thrilled to participate in one of their evening yoga sessions. It was calming and relaxing. The perfect way to find balance after a go-go-go day. In addition to yoga, the hotel offers an impressive array of wellness activities:

  • Daily yoga sessions
  • Mindfulness workshops
  • Guided meditation
  • Holistic health programs
  • Historical tours

Because of its rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and commitment to holistic well-being, the Hotel at Monastère des Augustines is truly a unique and one of kind hotel.

Book Hotel at Monastère des Augustines here.

The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: The Crown Jewel of Québec City

No report on famous hotels in Québec City is complete without mentioning the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Having had the pleasure of staying here during my 2018 visit, I can tell you that the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac truly lives up to its reputation as the world’s most photographed hotel. From the moment you step into the grand lobby, you understand why this castle-like structure has become the iconic symbol of Québec City.

restaurant at the frontenac hotel quebec

My Personal Experience

Let me tell you – there’s something magical about waking up in a castle! Built in 1893 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, this hotel masterfully combines historical grandeur with modern luxury. The views of the St. Lawrence River and Old Québec from the hotel are simply breathtaking.

What Sets It Apart

  • Stunning castle-like architecture with those famous turrets
  • Impeccable service at every turn
  • Prime location in Upper Town
  • World-class amenities including:
    • Heated indoor pool
    • Modern fitness center
    • Luxurious spa services
    • Multiple dining options
    • Concierge services that go above and beyond

Location Benefits

The Frontenac’s location is unbeatable for exploring Old Québec. During my stay, I loved being able to easily walk to:

  • The Plains of Abraham
  • Lower Town via the funicular
  • Petit-Champlain District
  • Place d’Youville
  • Notre Dame Cathedral
pool at the frontenac hotel quebec

Insider Tips

Even if you don’t stay here (though I highly recommend you do at least once!), the Fairmont is worth visiting. Here’s what I suggest:

  • Take a guided tour to learn about the hotel’s fascinating history
  • Enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel’s elegant setting
  • Visit during the holiday season to see spectacular decorations
  • Book a room with a river view if possible
  • Try their excellent room service at least once
  • Take advantage of the concierge’s local knowledge

Good to Know

  • Valet parking makes life easier in the busy Old Town
  • Book well in advance, especially for summer and winter carnival seasons
  • Higher floors offer better views
  • The hotel can be busy with tourists touring the property

Book Fairmont Le Château Frontenac here.

5 famous hotels in quebec pin

Insider Tip: Understanding Auberges

The great thing about Québec is that there are so many quaint, comfortable places to stay. As you search for hotels in the heart of Old Québec, you might also come across the word “Auberge.” If you’re curious about it like I was, you’ll want to know that “Auberge” means small inn or hostel in French. There are many of them in Québec City. 

During my travels in Québec, I’ve learned that “Auberge” means small inn or hostel in French. These charming properties are typically:

  • Housed in historic buildings
  • Independently owned
  • Known for personalized service
  • Small and intimate
  • Full of local character

The Auberge Saint-Antoine located in Lower Québec is one of the most famous Auberges in Québec. We haven’t stayed there, but I’ve heard great things.

Travel Planning Tips from Someone Who’s Been There

After multiple visits to Québec City in different seasons, here’s what I’ve learned:

  • Take advantage of the concierge services for local insights
  • Book well in advance for winter stays, especially during Carnaval
  • Consider splitting your time between different hotels for varied experiences
  • Don’t skip the hotel restaurants – they’re destinations in themselves
  • Ask about hotel tours even if you’re not staying there

Frequently Asked Questions

Having experienced these properties firsthand, here are answers to questions I often receive:

Which hotel is best for families?

Based on my stays, Le Manoir d’Auteuil with its Murphy beds and central location is perfect for families. The Fairmont is also excellent with its pool and various amenities. If you’re looking for an active outdoor adventure your kids would love, I’d recommend a stay at Village Vacances Valcartier.

Is the Ice Hotel worth visiting even if not staying overnight?

Absolutely! The guided tour I took was fascinating, and you get to see all the incredible ice sculptures and unique rooms.

Which hotel has the best location?

For Old Québec exploration, Le Manoir d’Auteuil and the Fairmont are ideally located. However, each hotel’s location serves different purposes – it depends on your priorities.

If you liked this post on famous hotels in Québec City, Read These Too

Now that you’ve read all about five famous hotels in Québec City, which one will you choose when you visit? Thanks again to Québec City Tourism for a top-notch winter trip. We hope you’ll prioritize a trip here soon. Here’s more information you’ll need as you plan your trip.

21 Amazing Ways to Embrace Winter Magic in Québec City

8 Notable Québec City Restaurants: Historic, Modern & Indigenous Cuisine

12 of the Most Famous Foods in Québec to try at Winter Carnaval

What to Drink in Québec During Winter: 8 Traditional Beverages You Can’t Miss

Christmas and Holiday Season in Québec

About Michelle Marine

Michelle Marine is the author of How to Raise Chickens for Meat, a long-time green-living enthusiast, and rural Iowa mom of four. She empowers families to grow and eat seasonal, local foods; to reduce their ecological footprint; and to come together through impactful travel.

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