Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec, Quebec City Travel Guide

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Experience a unique ride between Upper and Lower Town with stunning views of Quebec City's historic district and the St. Lawrence River.

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Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec

The Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec is a historic inclined elevator that links Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville) in Quebec City. Ascending at a 45-degree angle, it offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the charming Petit-Champlain district.

A brief summary to Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec

16 Rue du Petit Champlain, Québec City, La Cité-Limoilou, Quebec, G1K 4H4, CA
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Monday 9 am-9 pm
Tuesday 9 am-9 pm
Wednesday 9 am-9 pm
Thursday 9 am-9 pm
Friday 9 am-9 pm
Saturday 9 am-9 pm
Sunday 9 am-9 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec.

Purchase tickets in advance to avoid potential lines, especially during peak tourist season.
Have cash on hand, as credit card payments may not be accepted.
Visit during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) for a less crowded experience.
Take the funicular in both directions to experience the views from different perspectives.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Getting There

Walking

From the heart of Lower Town (e.g., Place Royale), the Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec is easily accessible on foot. Head towards Rue du Petit-Champlain, known for its cobblestone streets and boutiques. The lower entrance to the funicular is located within the Louis Jolliet House at 16 Rue du Petit-Champlain. Cost: Walking is free.
Public Transport

Several bus routes serve the Old Quebec area. Disembark at a stop near Hôtel de Ville. From there, walk down Côte de la Montagne towards Basse-Ville. Turn right onto Rue du Petit-Champlain to find the funicular entrance. Cost: A single fare on the Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC) is approximately CAD $3.75.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Quebec City. Request a ride to 16 Rue du Petit-Champlain. Be aware that traffic can be heavy in the Old Quebec area, especially during peak season. Cost: A short taxi ride within Old Quebec typically costs between CAD $10 and $15.
Parking

If driving, parking is available in the Old Quebec area, but it can be limited and expensive. The 'Place d'Youville' parking lot is about a 10-minute walk from the Funiculaire. Parking fees typically run around CAD $3.50 per hour. Cost: CAD $3.50/hour.

Discover more about Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec

The Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec, more accurately an inclined elevator, offers a unique and convenient way to travel between Quebec City's Haute-Ville (Upper Town) and Basse-Ville (Lower Town). Since 1879, this railway has been transporting visitors and locals alike, initially powered by a water balance system before converting to electricity in 1907.Spanning a length of 64 meters (210 feet), the funicular ascends at a 45-degree angle, providing passengers with breathtaking panoramic views. From the glass-enclosed cabins, riders can admire the architecture of Lower Town, the majestic Saint Lawrence River, and the iconic Château Frontenac. The ride is short, lasting only a few minutes, but it provides a memorable experience and saves a climb up or down the steep cliff.The funicular's history has seen its share of dramatic events. A fire in 1945 destroyed the original structure, requiring a complete rebuild. Following an accident in 1996, the funicular was revamped with modern technology and reopened in 1998 as an inclined elevator with independent cabins. The lower entrance is located in the historic Louis Jolliet House on Rue du Petit-Champlain, while the upper entrance is on Dufferin Terrace, near the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.