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• Tour the Château Frontenac

More than a hotel, the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is a Québec City icon. For over a century, it has perched atop Cape Diamond overlooking Dufferin Terrace and the St. Lawrence River.

Yes, You Can Visit the Château Frontenac

You can come inside and admire the recently renovated lobby along with historical artifacts going back 400 years displayed in specially designed cases.

To learn more about this legendary castle, a  guided tour  is also available. In summer, the  Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site , hidden under Dufferin Terrace, adjacent to the Château, is open to the public.

The Château Frontenac is located in the heart of the fortified city at 1 Rue des Carrières. You can get there easily on foot during a stroll in Old Québec. There is also on-site parking ($).

A Night at the Château Frontenac

Sumptuous rooms, indoor swimming pool, wellness centre, summer patio, restaurants... everything is there for a pleasant stay. This resort is also the first historic hotel in Canada to achieve carbon neutrality.

Find out more about room rates at the Fairmont Château Frontenac .

Best Views of Château Frontenac

Take a few pictures of your own of this Québec City icon. According to most Québec's residents, the best views are from place des Canotiers (Old Port), Citadelle de Québec, Observatoire de la Capitale, and from the terrace in Lévis (across the river).

Château Frontenac History

The Château was the brainchild of William Van Horne, president of the Canadian Pacific Railway, who wanted to build a hotel to draw travellers as a way to promote luxury train travel. 

The Construction of a Dream

• 1893: Opening of the 170 rooms hotel
• 1899 to 1924: Addition of 3 wings and the central tower that is close to 80 metres high (260 feet)
• 1926: The Riverview wing, the original section of the hotel, was destroyed by fire.
• The Château stands on the Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux archaeological site, which was, for over 200 years, the official residence and seat of the French and British governors.

Destination of Choice for Celebrities

Many famous people have made the Château Frontenac their residence during their time in Québec City. From Queen Elizabeth II to Céline Dion, via Princess Grace of Monaco, Leonardo DiCaprio, Paul McCartney and Charlie Chaplin, celebrities have made the Château Frontenac their home away from home.

In 1953 the Château Frontenac was used for the filming of Alfred Hitchcock’s  I Confess  starring Montgomery Clift and Anne Baxter. The Château Frontenac’s manager at the time, George Jessop, plays himself in the film.

A Crucial Political Decision

The First Québec Conference was held at the Château Frontenac in 1943. British prime minister Winston Churchill and American president Franklin D. Roosevelt were hosted by Canadian prime minister Mackenzie King as they agreed on plans for the upcoming allied invasion of occupied Europe.

Did you know?

• The Château Frontenac is said to be the world’s most photographed hotel.
• The Château Frontenac was named in honour of Louis de Buade, Compte de Frontenac and governor of New France from 1672 to 1682 and 1689 to 1698.
• If you went jogging in the hotel, you’d find a total of 12 kilometres of hallways.
• There are close to 2,000 windows with spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River, the city and the interior gardens.
• The executive chef collects some 650 litres of honey every year from 4 hives in the Château’s private rooftop garden.

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• About this activity

Guided Tour of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Multiple languages

On this 1-hour guided tour, experience the history of the prestigious Château Frontenac. Discover the famous people and historical events that have shaped its identity over the years. You'll have the unique opportunity to see the architectural improvements and installations undergone in the recent years.

Activity location

• 2, rue d'Auteuil / D'Auteuil street, 2, chateau Frontenac
• G1R 5C2, Quebec City, Canada, Canada

Meeting/Redemption Point

• G1R 4P5, Québec, Québec, Canada
• Mon, Apr 29 $22
• Tue, Apr 30 $22
• Wed, May 1 $22
• Thu, May 2 $22
• Fri, May 3 $22
• Sat, May 4 $22
• Sun, May 5 $22
• Mon, May 6 $22
• Tue, May 7 $22
• Wed, May 8 $22
• Thu, May 9 $22
• Fri, May 10 $22
• Sat, May 11 $22
• Sun, May 12 $22
• Mon, May 13 $22

English Departure 1:00pm

• Activity duration is 1 hour 1h 1h

1-hour guided tour of the Château Frontenac with guide in period costume.

Départ en français 11h00

Tour guidé du Château Frontenac avec guide en costume d'époque d'une durée d'environ 1 heure.

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included All taxes, fees and handling charges
• What's excluded What's excluded Gratuities

Know before you book

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Children must be accompanied by an adult

Activity itinerary

Terrasse dufferin, best deals on things to do, top experiences in quebec city.

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Chateau Frontenac Guided Tour

• 9.50 / 10 22 reviews | 261 travellers Excellent everything, punctuality, quality of the guide and interesting information. 10 Norma Esther
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts

Enter one of Quebec's most emblematic buildings and discover its best-kept secrets with this Chateau Frontenac Guided Tour, which is sure to surprise you!

At the time you choose, we'll meet in front of the Dufferin Terrace . From there, we'll walk to the entrance of the famous castle of Frontenac, to find its history. Let's go!

For an hour, we'll enjoy walking around this imposing building converted into a luxury hotel, declared a Historical Monument in 1981. We'll visit the foyer, the Champlain restaurant , the Rose Room , the ballroom and many other rooms, and you'll be amazed by the exquisite decoration of this place! 

As we walk around Château Frontenac, we'll reveal some of the most curious stories of the castle. For example, did you know that in the year 2000, this building revealed a secret that had been kept for over 50 years: a walled-in and forgotten room! 

Furthermore, during the visit, we'll discover the reason for the peculiar names of its rooms, 17 suites have been renamed in honour of important personalities who stayed at Frontenac . Queen Elizabeth II, the Princess of Monaco, Charles de Gaulle and Francis Mitterrand, among other celebrities, are immortalised in this Canadian castle.

After discovering every corner of the most photographed hotel in the world, the visit will end at the starting point.

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English speaking guide.

Entrance to Frontenac Castle.

When to book?

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.
• Promotes local employment.
• Has a gender equality policy.
• Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Cicérone Tours Show more

Corporate name: Cicérone inc.

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 2 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Dufferin Terrace, in front of the Au 1884 food kiosk

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Guided tour of the Château Frontenac

On this one-hour guided tour, truly experience the history of the prestigious Château Frontenac. Discover the famous people and historical events that have shaped its identity over the years. You'll have the unique opportunity to see the architectural improvements and installations undergone in the recent years.

Meet one of the historical figures that contributed to the long-standing reputation of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and walk into this iconic building to catch a glimpse of the true castle life over the years. Depending on availability, the tour will take you through the lobby, Champlain gastronomic restaurant, Salon Rose and Ballroom where numerous celebrities attended various events over the years. Availability of the rooms to be visited are subject to events taking place at time of visit and is out of our control considering the hotel is in operation 24/7. But rest assured that our seasoned guides will always make the best of every situation and will show you as much as possible, exception made to the hotel rooms that are never included in the tour.

Old Quebec City Winter Walking Tour

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Includes seeing :

• Place d’Armes
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*Note : Includes 4 stops

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Experience Quebec’s Christmas traditions as you admire the Christmas decor in the heart of Old Quebec and Petit-Champlain. You'll be delighted by the stories and historical anecdotes told by a licensed local guide dressed in period costume.

The rate includes:

• 2-hour guided tour by licensed guide in period costume
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Customized service

Stack all the odds in your favor and call on us to impress your guests through our diversified services. We trust our qualified and enthusiastic team can really make a difference, thanks to our knowledge of the region, which can turn very useful when time comes to welcome your guests. Contact us to discuss your needs, we want to help!

Private tours

You'd rather do things your way? Our private guide service gives you all the flexibility that you need.

You get to decide:

• the departing time
• the tour duration
• the itinerary

You can then enjoy:

• Exclusive licensed local guide service
• Content and route adapted to your specific needs and wants

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Guided Tour of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City

Ever wondered what secrets lie within the walls of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City? A guided tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the mysteries and tales hidden in this enchanting castle-like structure. From its regal architecture to the fascinating stories of its past inhabitants, the tour provides a glimpse into a world of opulence and history.

But what truly sets this experience apart? Stay tuned to discover the exclusive insights and surprises that await those who embark on this exploration of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

• Explore the historic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac with a professional guide
• Enjoy exclusive access to unique areas and famous rooms
• Admire panoramic views of Quebec City from the Dufferin Terrace
• Learn intriguing anecdotes and stories about the hotel’s past

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Tour Details

When delving into the tour details of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City, visitors can anticipate a one-hour guided experience starting from $22.21, ensuring a captivating exploration of this historical gem.

The tour provides insights into the historical significance and architectural details of this iconic landmark. Visitors will have the opportunity to access exclusive areas not open to the public, gaining a deeper understanding of the Château’s rich history.

Plus, they can enjoy panoramic views of Quebec City from the Dufferin Terrace, offering a breathtaking perspective of the surroundings. The tour encompasses a blend of informative narration and visual splendor, making it a must-do for those seeking to enjoy the charm and allure of this architectural masterpiece.

Visitors to the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac can expect a comprehensive array of inclusions that enhance their guided tour experience at this historic location.

• Audio headsets provided for clear hearing
• Access to exclusive areas not open to the public
• Small group size for a personalized experience

These inclusions ensure that guests have a fully immersive and informative tour.

The audio headsets allow visitors to hear the guide clearly, even in busy or noisy areas. Exclusive access to areas not typically open to the public provides a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse of this iconic landmark. Plus, the small group size ensures that each guest can interact closely with the guide and ask questions, creating a more personalized and engaging experience.

Tour Highlights

Discover the captivating history and architectural beauty of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac through its intriguing tour highlights. Visitors will explore the luxurious architecture of the hotel, admiring its elegant interiors and grand design.

The tour includes visits to renowned rooms like Champlain, Frontenac, and Saint-Louis , each filled with historical anecdotes that bring the past to life. Guests can also enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Quebec City from the Dufferin Terrace, offering a unique perspective of the surroundings.

Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides share interesting stories and facts about the hotel, providing a deeper understanding of its significance. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the rich history and charm of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the heart of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac overlooks the picturesque St. Lawrence River. Visitors can easily access this historic landmark by car, public transportation , or on foot. For those arriving by car, there are various parking options available nearby to ensure convenience for guests.

Plus, the hotel’s prime location provides easy access to a myriad of nearby attractions such as the historic Plains of Abraham, the Citadel , and the charming streets of Old Quebec. Guests can explore these attractions either before or after their visit to the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, seeing the rich history and culture of Quebec City.

Additional Information

Located in the heart of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac offers a range of additional information to enhance visitors’ experience during their guided tour.

For accessibility options, the tour is wheelchair accessible with some limitations, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can still enjoy the experience.

As for photography guidelines, guests are allowed to take photos during the tour, capturing memorable moments of their visit.

It’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour, suitable for all age groups.

Plus, a gift shop is available for those looking to purchase souvenirs and memorabilia to remember their time at the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

Price and Duration

The guided tour of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City offers visitors a 1-hour immersive experience starting from $22.21 with a lowest price guarantee.

Comparison with Competitors : The price of the tour is competitive compared to similar offerings in the area.

Amenities : The tour includes a professional and knowledgeable guide, admission to the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, access to exclusive areas not open to the public, and audio headsets for clear hearing.

Customer Testimonials, Reviews : Guests have praised the tour for its informative content, the friendliness of the guides, and the overall value for money. Many visitors have highlighted the beautiful architecture and the captivating stories shared during the tour.

Availability and Booking

Discover the various convenient tour times available for booking your immersive experience at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City. The tour schedule offers flexibility with multiple time slots throughout the day, catering to different preferences.

To secure your spot, the reservation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour commences, providing peace of mind. You can reserve your tour now and pay later, making the booking process hassle-free.

Meeting Point and End Point

To ensure a smooth start to your guided tour experience at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City, head to the designated meeting point at Au 1884, Place Terrasse Dufferin next to the Château Frontenac kiosk. Once the tour concludes, it will also end back at this meeting point for your convenience.

Explore nearby attractions

After the tour, take a stroll along the picturesque Dufferin Terrace.

Visit the nearby Citadelle of Quebec for a historical experience.

Explore the charming streets of Old Quebec just a stone’s throw away.

Local dining options

Indulge in French cuisine at the on-site Champlain Restaurant.

Try local delicacies at nearby eateries like Le Lapin Sauté.

Enjoy a relaxing drink at a cafe while taking in the stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.

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Common questions

Can visitors access the rooftop of fairmont le château frontenac during the guided tour.

Visitors can access the rooftop of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac during the guided tour. This experience allows them to enjoy panoramic views of Quebec City from the Dufferin Terrace, one of the tour highlights.

Are There Any Special Events or Activities Held at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Throughout the Year?

Throughout the year, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hosts a variety of annual events and festive activities. Visitors can enjoy local attractions and nearby landmarks while soaking in the charm and history of this iconic Quebec City landmark.

Is There a Specific Dress Code or Attire Recommended for the Guided Tour?

For the guided tour at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, there isn’t a specific dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable attire and shoes suitable for walking. It’s always respectful to adhere to cultural norms and tour etiquette.

Are There Any Famous Celebrities or Notable Figures Who Have Stayed at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in the Past?

Famous celebrities and historical figures have frequented Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, known for its VIP accommodations . Notable visitors have included members of royalty, world leaders , and renowned artists , making the hotel a preferred destination for the elite.

Can Visitors Purchase Food or Beverages During the Guided Tour at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac?

Visitors can enjoy dining options at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac during the guided tour. Refreshments are available, and the tour schedule allows for a leisurely exploration. Guests can savor food and beverages while seeing the tour experience.

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Experience the magic of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City with a guided tour that blends history, luxury , and stunning views. From the opulent interiors to the panoramic vistas, this one-hour tour offers an exclusive peek into one of Canada’s most iconic landmarks.

With a professional guide leading the way, visitors of all ages can enjoy a memorable excursion filled with fascinating anecdotes and behind-the-scenes access. Book your tour today and create lasting memories at this historical gem.

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Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Experience

• 1 rue des Carrières Québec City Quebec, Canada G1R 4P5
• Tel +1 418 692 3861
• Fax +1 418 692 1751
• [email protected]

Experience details

Quebec City virtual map   Experience everything the Château has to offer during your stay! We've gathered our most popular amenities and activities together under an experience fee of $ 30 plus tax per room (a value of $100), per night which will be added to your bill. Discover our program which includes several categories: family, history & culture, food & beverage, and wellness. For more information, refer to a member of our staff.

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• News & Features

Bordeaux 2023 Field notes: Château La Tour Figeac—La Chartreuse de St-Emilion

Simon Field MW is impressed by a (relatively) lesser-known grand cru.

By Simon Field MW

In his latest dispatch from the Bordeaux 2023 en primeur campaign, Simon Field MW visits Château La Tour Figeac, an over-performing, but under-hyped estate in St-Emilion.

Bordeaux 2023 Field notes: Out of sorts?

It is easy, amid the sound and fury of a primeur campaign , to get swept away in a flow of targeted adulation, the targets usually the same and the adulation crowned by peer pressure and a niggling anxiety that maybe, just maybe, this is rather too early to be judging a category which is famous for the longevity of its wines and their capacity to mature with plenty of grace and minimal pressure. It is easy to forget the less known estates, which make up the vast majority of Bordeaux ‘s annual production of 3.84 million hectoliters.

Take St-Emilion , for example; even its putative crown, the Grand Cru Classé, is limited in its international appeal, with only a handful of its 72 recipients gaining recognition on the world stage. One can only be completely confident of approbation if one climbs to the next level, to the pantheon of Premier Grand Cru Classé, of which there are now 14.

Tasmania unlocked

Bordeaux 2023 Field notes: House of cards

A thoroughly researched volume to square up to the neo-temperance lobby

Time, then, before the campaign begins, to celebrate one of these (relatively) lesser-known grands crus. With a name which conjures up not one but two of the greatest, Latour and Figeac , Château La Tour Figeac is, in a sense, a marketeers’ dream (best not to mention at this point that there is even more allusive nomenclature in play down the road at Château La Tour du Pin Figeac). Be that as it may, La Tour Figeac has certainly got a lot going for it. It is owned by a family and not by a corporation; it is surrounded by not only Figeac, but also Cheval Blanc and the plateau de Pomerol; and it shares their famous soils. Should that not be enough, it is also farmed under the principles of biodynamic viticulture and has been for well over two decades. What is not to like?

Not a lot, as it turns out, be it the affable and generous owner Otto Rettenmaier, or the focused and scholarly winemaker Pierre Blois, or even, heaven forfend, the wine itself, a true classic of gravelly western St-Emilion terroir, itself part of the greater Figeac estate until 1879. Thereafter the “breakaway” element was divided in two, with the 14.6ha (36 acres) which constitutes today’s La Tour Figeac, handed down, pretty much undisturbed, in terms of terroir at least, to a sequence of owners, most of them Bordelais.

The interest of the Rettenmaier family was piqued by the Counts von Neipperg, hunting friends, and now, of course owners of Canon La Gaffelière . The estate was bought in 1973, its first vintage under new management the 1974, and the current paterfamilias Otto took charge in 1994. Otto has supervised a program of renovation and improvement which has seen significant replanting, the installation of a modern vat room and, perhaps most important, full organic accreditation (2021 was the first year thus labelled). Over the years several famous names have been consulted to gild the lily, most significantly Emile Peynaud , in the early days and, latterly, Stéphane Derenoncourt in the winery and Claude Bourguignon out in the fields.

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50 years of château la tour figeac.

It is entirely in the character of Otto to mark the 50 vintages of his family’s ownership with a grand tasting, in magnum, of each of his vintages. The turnout is impressive, itself indicative of the respect and affection that he has gained over the years. Is that Jacques Thienpont from Le Pin sniffing the 1975 over there? Yes it is! For the sake of accuracy, one must mention that 1991, a disastrous frosty vintage, did not make an appearance. Otto was insufficiently impressed by the magnums he had kept back, so he kept them back from us, and 50 became 49. An inspiring tasting, nonetheless. When I ask Pierre for an overview, he is pithy in response; the 1970s were years of crisis and recovery (at micro and macro levels), the 1980s of rebirth, the 1990s of restructure and fine vintages, the 2000s the years spent in pursuit of organic principles and thereafter it has been a case of fine tuning. Extremely succinct! And his favorite vintage? He is impressed by the ‘88, a truffly charmer if ever there was one.

Otto, when asked to compare today’s estate with its former self, says that one cannot really make a comparison. “It was another world,” he says, “everything, everywhere was different, less precise, with far less technological assistance and fewer ideas about how to harness an organic spirit.” Indeed, it is the embracing of technology while at the same time getting ever closer to the soil which marks the key aspiration of today’s La Tour Figeac.

Oh, and adding more Cabernet Franc. “We wish to increase it from 37 percent to 59 percent by 2030,” says Otto; quite a precise ambition. And his favorite vintage(s)? He opts for 1998 and 2012, underrated both and, he maintains, worthy of a little more attention. Of the famous years, he especially likes 2000.

My overall impression is that the wines at La Tour Figeac demonstrate significant potential for longevity and that the classic blend (60–70 percent Merlot and 30–40 percent Cabernet Franc) has been highly successful over the longer term, with the resourceful Cabernet Franc harnessing aromatic potential and power at the back of the palate, and the Merlot providing texture and base-line fruit.

My list of favorite wines is long. Standouts include the 1982, still bright and full of energy; the ‘88, subtle but persuasive; the (to my mind) underappreciated 2001; then, with no lack of choice in the last two decades, the 2009 and 2016 primes inter pares . The impressive showing for both the 2022 and the cask sample of 2023 is exceptionally promising. The dial is pointing in the right direction. Proof, should proof be needed, that La Tour Figeac is a very significant player on St-Emilion’s crowded stage. Just look out for the tall turreted water tower with the elegant chartreuse in front; significant landmarks both.

Simon Field MW

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