Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Types of Shops in Quebec City

Quebec City offers a mix of shopping experiences, from quaint boutiques in historic neighborhoods to modern shopping centers. Here are the main categories of shops you’ll find:

Artisan and Craft Shops: Specializing in handmade goods, local crafts, and Quebecois products.
Fashion Boutiques: Offering unique clothing, accessories, and footwear, often from local designers.
Gourmet Food Stores: Selling local delicacies like maple syrup, cheeses, and ice cider.
Antique Shops: Perfect for finding vintage treasures and historical artifacts.
Souvenir Shops: Stocked with keepsakes like Quebec-themed items, postcards, and traditional crafts.
Bookstores and Stationery Shops: Featuring French and English books, as well as unique paper goods.
Art Galleries and Studios: Selling original artwork and prints by local artists.

2. Must-Visit Boutiques and Local Shops

Here are some standout shopping destinations in Quebec City:

a. Quartier Petit Champlain

Overview: This historic district is one of the oldest shopping areas in North America. Its cobblestone streets are lined with charming boutiques and artisan shops.
Highlights:
- Boutique Amimoc: Known for its high-quality moccasins and leather goods, handmade in Quebec.
- Bilodeau Canada: Specializes in fur and leather products, including hats, mittens, and coats.
- La Fudgerie: A must-visit for fudge lovers, offering a wide variety of flavors made on-site.
- Atelier La Pomme: A boutique featuring handmade jewelry and accessories.
Average Costs: Prices range from CAD 20 for small souvenirs to CAD 200+ for artisanal leather goods.

b. Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec)

Overview: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Quebec is home to many unique shops.
Highlights:
- Maison Simons: A Quebec-based department store offering stylish clothing, home goods, and accessories at reasonable prices.
- Boutique de Noël de Québec: A year-round Christmas shop with ornaments, decorations, and gifts.
- Galerie d’Art Inuit Brousseau: Features Inuit art, including sculptures, prints, and carvings.
- J.A. Moisan Épicerie: The oldest grocery store in North America, selling gourmet foods, spices, and local products.
Average Costs: CAD 10–50 for souvenirs, CAD 100+ for art or specialty items.

c. Saint-Roch District

Overview: A trendy neighborhood with a mix of modern and vintage shops, perfect for fashion and design enthusiasts.
Highlights:
- Ketto: A boutique offering whimsical bags, accessories, and stationery designed by local artists.
- Article 721: A concept store featuring unique home decor, clothing, and gifts.
- La Maison Smith: A café and shop where you can buy locally roasted coffee and Quebecois treats.
Average Costs: CAD 30–150 for clothing and accessories, CAD 5–20 for coffee and snacks.

d. Marché du Vieux-Port (Old Port Market)

Overview: A bustling market where you can shop for fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade goods.
Highlights:
- Local Maple Syrup Vendors: Offering a variety of grades and packaging options.
- Cheese Shops: Selling Quebec’s famous cheeses like Oka and Bleu d’Élizabeth.
- Artisan Stalls: Featuring handmade soaps, candles, and crafts.
Average Costs: CAD 5–50 for food items, CAD 20–100 for artisan goods.

e. Laurier Québec and Place Sainte-Foy

Overview: These modern shopping malls are located outside the historic center and offer a mix of high-end and mainstream stores.
Highlights:
- Renaud-Bray: A large bookstore with a great selection of French-language books and gifts.
- Boutique 1861: A vintage-inspired fashion boutique with elegant clothing and accessories.
- Simons: Another location of the popular Quebecois department store.
Average Costs: CAD 20–200 depending on the store and product.

3. Shopping Customs and Etiquette

To make the most of your shopping experience in Quebec City, keep the following tips in mind:

Language: French is the primary language in Quebec City, but most shopkeepers in tourist areas speak English. A polite "Bonjour" (hello) or "Merci" (thank you) goes a long way.
Tipping: Tipping is not expected in shops, but it is customary in cafes and restaurants (15–20% of the bill).
Tax: Prices in Quebec do not include sales tax, so expect an additional 14.975% (GST + QST) to be added at checkout.
Haggling: Bargaining is not common in Quebec City, except possibly at flea markets or with street vendors.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Many shops encourage the use of reusable bags. Bring your own or expect to pay a small fee for plastic bags.

4. Local Considerations

Seasonal Shopping: Quebec City has a vibrant holiday shopping scene, especially during the Christmas season. The German Christmas Market (Marché de Noël Allemand) is a must-visit for festive gifts and decorations.
Hours of Operation: Most shops are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends. Smaller boutiques may close earlier on Sundays.
Currency: The local currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
Accessibility: Many shops in Old Quebec are located in historic buildings with cobblestone streets, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

5. Insider Tips for an Enhanced Experience

Shop Local: Look for the "Fabriqué au Québec" (Made in Quebec) label to support local artisans and businesses.
Plan for Weather: Quebec City can be cold in winter, so dress warmly if you’re exploring outdoor markets or boutiques.
Combine Shopping with Sightseeing: Many shopping areas, like Quartier Petit Champlain and Old Quebec, are also major tourist attractions.
Ask for Recommendations: Shopkeepers are often happy to suggest nearby stores or restaurants.

Quebec City’s boutiques and local shops offer a delightful mix of history, culture, and creativity. Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind souvenir or indulging in a shopping spree, the city’s vibrant retail scene is sure to leave you with lasting memories. Enjoy your visit!