Dufferin Terrace (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Dufferin Terrace?
What makes it 90% Couple-Friendly: Sunset views, live music, carriage rides, and photo spots beside Château Frontenac create a distinctly romantic atmosphere that fits couples, although crowds reduce privacy in high season.
Positives:
- Historic Ambiance: Built in 1859, the terrace keeps its 19th-century charm with original cannons.
- Scenic Variety: Offers river views, castle backdrops, live performances, and paid attractions.
Challenges:
- Crowds at Peak Times: Narrow boardwalk sections fill up midday in summer and during events.
- Limited Facilities: Public washrooms are only under gazebos; bring water and tissues.
What is Dufferin Terrace?
- A long, elevated wooden boardwalk and terrace established in 1859 atop Cap-Diamant in Quebec City
- An open-air esplanade stretching along the Dufferin Quay beside Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, commanding views of the Saint-Lawrence River
- A heritage-protected promenade framed by decorative gazebos, 19th-century cannons, and a historic winter toboggan chute
What is so special about Dufferin Terrace for couple trip?
- Historic riverside promenade built in 1859
- Iconic Château Frontenac photo spot
- Free and paid experiences: street performers, funicular, toboggan
- Romantic carriage rides and crypt tours available
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time to stroll the boardwalk, capture château views, and take a funicular ride.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Dufferin Terrace
Boardwalk Stroll:
Walk the 425 m wooden promenade overlooking the St. Lawrence River.
Tip: Begin at sunrise or late afternoon to enjoy softer light and fewer people.
Photo with Château Frontenac:
Frame the iconic hotel from the terrace’s cannon-lined edge.
Tip: Use a wide-angle lens and aim for golden hour for vivid colors.
Funicular Ride:
Take the historic funicular down to Petit-Champlain.
Tip: Carry CAD 5 per person in cash; peak waits are shorter early or late.
Toboggan Slide (winter):
Race the 200 m wooden track up to 70 km/h.
Tip: Reserve tickets at the Au 1884 kiosk to skip the line.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Dufferin Terrace
- Visit Off-Peak: Go early or late to avoid tour groups and street performance crowds.
- Combine Tours: Pair the funicular ride with a walk through Lower Town for a seamless route.
Reviews of Dufferin Terrace
Alireza Abdollahee
Dufferin Terrace is a wide wooden boardwalk in front of the Château Frontenac in Quebec City, offering sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, Old Port, and surrounding historic landmarks.
Tom Yenk
Great place to go for a walk and hang out anytime of the day, especially in the evening, looking over the river, watching the ships go up-and-down.
Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari
This terrace has a fantastic view to the Quebec City harbour. It's ideal to spend some time here because you get the chance to walk in the terrace, admiring the famous hotel as well as the view of the harbour.
Amartya Ghosal
Undoubtedly the main tourist attraction in Old Quebec City. Whether it’s enjoying the scenic views of the Lower Town, gazing over the St. Lawrence River, admiring the architecture of Château Frontenac, enjoying the cool breeze, watching live performances by local artists, or simply spending time with your loved ones, this historic public space offers it all. We stayed at a nearby hotel and spent ...
Yasser Abed
Beautiful views and lively atmosphere! Dufferin Terrace offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and Château Frontenac. A perfect place to walk, relax, and enjoy street performers. A must-visit when in Old Quebec!
When is the best time to visit Dufferin Terrace (Quebec City, Canada)?
In summer, street performers and art exhibitions enliven the terrace; in winter, try the historic toboggan slide during the Winter Carnival.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Horse-drawn carriage ride (private) | CAD 90 |
| Funicular ride (one-way, 2 persons) | CAD 10 |
| Toboggan slide (2 persons) | CAD 6.96 |
| Forts-et-Châteaux-Saint-Louis crypt tour (2 adults) | CAD 24 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 130.96 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Dufferin Terrace
Address: Rue des Carrières, Québec, QC G1R 5J5, Canada
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About Dufferin Terrace
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 888-773-888810 BEST nearby Activities
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