Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church?
What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can tour the 17th-century church for CA$1, read interpretation panels, and attend Mass; the visit is safe, cheap, and flexible, though the entire site fits in under an hour.
Positives:
- Compact space: The small interior allows an intimate visit without large crowds.
- Historic heart: Located in Place-Royale, it’s easy to combine with other Old Québec stops.
Challenges:
- Narrow aisles: Wooden pews and tight aisles limit movement when it’s busy.
- Basic amenities: No on-site café, gift shop or dedicated restrooms beyond basics.
What is Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church?
- A stone Catholic church occupying Place-Royale in Old Québec, originally founded in 1688 and rebuilt after the 1759 Siege of Québec.
- One of North America’s oldest surviving stone churches, restored in 1929 to preserve its 17th- and 18th-century architectural character.
- A modest structure with a fieldstone facade, exposed wooden beams and a 17th-century ship model suspended above the nave.
What is so special about Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church for solo trip?
- Historic stone church founded in 1688 and rebuilt in 1763.
- Suspended 17th-century ship model ‘LeBrézé’ inside.
- Tiny, quiet interior ideal for solo reflection.
- Affordable entry (CA$1) and free Wi-Fi for history panels.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Solo travelers can explore key art, history, and the model ship without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church
Self-guided interior tour:
Explore 18th- and 19th-century paintings, ex-votos and restored altarpiece.
Tip: Pay CA$1 at the entrance; plan 10–15 minutes for the full circuit.
Find the 17th-century model ship:
Locate the suspended model of the French ship LeBrézé hanging near the ceiling.
Tip: Stand in the center aisle and look up; use your phone’s zoom for close-up details.
Attend Sunday Mass at 11 a.m.:
Hear the bilingual choir and experience local parish life.
Tip: Arrive by 10:50 a.m. to secure a pew; service is free and open to visitors.
Use interpretation panels and kiosk:
Read about the church’s rebuilds after 1759 and its role in Québec history.
Tip: Connect to the free Wi-Fi for extended content; panels available in English and French.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church
- Visit weekday afternoons: Fewer visitors and softer light for photos.
- Carry change: Have CAD 1 in coins ready to skip delays at the entrance.
- Combine tours: Pair with a walking tour of Place-Royale to enrich your visit.
Reviews of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church
Elio Yaacoub
Notre-Dame-des-Victoires in Quebec City is a hidden gem of history and serenity! This petite stone church, the oldest in North America, sits on Place Royale in the Lower Town’s Old Quebec, built in 1688 atop Samuel de Champlain’s original outpost ruins. Renamed for French victories over British fleets in 1690 and 1711, its cozy interior dazzles with 18th-century paintings, gilded altars, and a sus...
O I
Montreal in Quebec is the best place to visit. also known as old Quebec. For you to enjoy this area you need 1 to 2 days. At Quebec people speak French a few can speak English. We went there by bus our first stop is notre dame des victoires catholic church unfortunately the church is under repair that is why we are not allow inside so taking some pictures around the area but was so impressed by th...
Gail Scott
Wonderful little church in the heart of the old city. Be careful as it is not always open. Free to visit. Beautiful inside.
THE EXPLORER
We took the funicular down to lower QC to look at the historic sites. Wondering around we found this beautiful old restored Catholic Church. Glad it has been saved.
Melanie E
Visited: on a weekend Wait time: no wait Tickets required: none There was a post advising of a concert at 3 pm. Unfortunately, I didn’t see anything. A beautiful interior.
When is the best time to visit Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church (Quebec City, Canada)?
Open daily 11 a.m.–6 p.m. May–Oct. From Nov–Apr the church opens Sundays only. Visit off-season for fewer crowds and quieter reflection.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Self-guided tour (age 13+) | CAD 1 |
| Suggested donation | CAD 5 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 6 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church
Address: 32 Rue Sous-le-Fort, Québec, QC G1K 4E8, Canada
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church (Quebec City)?
About Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church
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
+1 418-692-165010 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, solo trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, solo trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities