Dufferin Terrace, Central Canada Travel Guide

4.8 (1849)

Experience breathtaking views and rich history on Quebec City's iconic boardwalk, a vibrant hub of culture and stunning scenery along the St. Lawrence River.

Dufferin Terrace, a historic boardwalk in Quebec City, offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the iconic Château Frontenac. Named after Governor General Lord Dufferin, this lively promenade is a must-visit for tourists seeking breathtaking scenery and a taste of Quebec's rich heritage.

A brief summary to Dufferin Terrace

Rue des Carrières, Québec City, La Cité-Limoilou, Quebec, G1R 5J5, CA
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Dufferin Terrace.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Don't miss the nearby historic sites, including the Château Frontenac and the Plains of Abraham.
Bring a light jacket, as it can get breezy along the waterfront, even in warmer months.
Check the schedule for local performances or events that often take place on the terrace.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Parliament Hill

Centre of Canada Park

Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada

Battle of the Lake of Two Mountains National Historic Site of Canada

Horseshoe Falls of Canada

Explore Dufferin Terrace on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Dufferin Terrace, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

If you're already in Old Quebec, walking to Dufferin Terrace is a delightful option. From the iconic Château Frontenac, simply head down Rue des Carrières. The terrace is located directly in front of the Fairmont Château Frontenac, making it easily accessible on foot. This is a scenic stroll filled with historic architecture.
Public Transport

To reach Dufferin Terrace via public transportation, you can take the RTC (Réseau de transport de la Capitale) bus. Routes 1, 11, and 21 will take you close to Old Quebec. For instance, take bus 21 from the Gare du Palais or the Central Station and get off at the 'Château Frontenac' stop. From there, it's a 2-minute walk to Dufferin Terrace, located on Rue des Carrières. A single fare is around CA$3.50.
Driving

If you're driving to Dufferin Terrace, head towards the Old Quebec area. From Autoroute 440, merge onto Boulevard Charest Est (Route 138) and continue until you reach Rue des Carrières. Look for parking options nearby, as street parking can be limited. The nearest parking garage is the 'Château Frontenac' parking, which typically costs around CA$3-5 per hour. Once parked, it's just a short walk to Dufferin Terrace. Paid parking is available across the city.

Discover more about Dufferin Terrace

Dufferin Terrace, or Terrasse Dufferin, is a renowned boardwalk that wraps around the Château Frontenac in Quebec City, offering visitors a delightful blend of breathtaking views, rich history, and cultural significance. Stretching along the edge of the cliffs overlooking the St. Lawrence River, this iconic promenade has been a key part of Quebec City's heritage since its public inauguration in 1838.Originally a private terrace for dignitaries, Governor Montmagny expanded the residence in 1620 and installed a terrace for his guests. In 1834, a fire destroyed the governor's residence and terrace. It was later extended and named in honour of Governor General Dufferin, who was captivated by the city. The terrace was officially inaugurated on June 28, 1879.Today, Dufferin Terrace is a vibrant hub of activity. Visitors can stroll along the wooden boardwalk, relax on benches, and admire the panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River, Lower Town, and Lévis. The terrace also features several kiosks, street performers, and musicians, adding to its lively atmosphere, especially during the warmer months. In winter, the terrace transforms into a magical wonderland with the popular toboggan run, Les Glissades de la Terrasse.Beneath the terrace lies the remains of the Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux, which served as the official residence and seat of power for French and British governors for over 200 years. Visitors can explore this archaeological site and view the ruins through glass panels called archeoscopes built into the promenade.