2-Day Romantic Getaway — Québec City (Autumn)
A slow-paced, intimate two-day plan for couples that blends Old Québec charm, riverfront romance, cozy cafés, local tasting on Île d'Orléans and two special moments: a sunset cruise and a candlelit fine-dining evening. Designed for September (Autumn): crisp air, fall color and early golden hours.
Highlights
- Sunset cruise on the St. Lawrence River
- Strolls through Petit-Champlain and Place Royale at golden hour
- Tasting at Cassis Monna & Filles on Île d'Orléans
- Candlelit dinner at Restaurant Le Saint-Amour
- Cozy rooftop cocktails with panoramic city views
Itinerary
Day 1
Old Québec day: cozy cafés, historic streets, museum visit and an evening special — a sunset cruise — followed by rooftop cocktails.
Breakfast at Boulangerie Paillard — cozy pastries and coffee
Start the day with warm croissants and cappuccinos at a beloved Old Québec bakery — sit by the window and watch the cobblestone street come alive.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a window seat near the corner for people-watching and intimate photos together.
- September mornings are crisp — order something warm and share a pastry so you have a light, romantic start.
- Cobblestones are uneven; wear comfortable shoes when stepping out from the bakery onto Rue Saint-Jean.
Wander Rue du Petit-Champlain and Quartier Petit-Champlain
A slow, hand-in-hand stroll through North America's oldest commercial district — boutique shops, artisan stalls and intimate alleys.
Tips from local experts:
- Look for quiet side alleys and benches for private photo moments away from the main crowds.
- If you see a handcrafted shop you both like, pick a small souvenir to remember the trip — many shops will gift wrap on the spot.
- Bring a light jacket; the river breeze can make this area cooler in September, especially near the lower district.
Place Royale & Notre-Dame-des-Victoires — historic square
Pause at the atmospheric cobbled square and the tiny, gold-accented Notre-Dame-des-Victoires — an ideal spot for a couple's photo.
Tips from local experts:
- Stand on the steps near the church for a classic framed photo of the two of you with the square behind.
- This area is compact and quieter in the mid-morning — take an unhurried moment to soak in the light and architecture.
- If you prefer an intimate guided story, local guides sometimes offer short private storytelling stops in Place Royale.
Lunch at Le Lapin Sauté — intimate bistro in Petit-Champlain
Cozy, rustic Quebecois cuisine in a small, romantic dining room — perfect for lingering over shared plates.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a table in advance and request a quiet corner; the dining room is small and tables are close together.
- Try a sharable rabbit dish or local game for a memorable local flavor; ask the server for a wine pairing.
- Bring a light layer — traditional bistros can be cool inside in early autumn for comfort and ambiance.
Check-in & quiet break at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
If you are staying at or visiting the Château, take time to freshen up and enjoy the hotel's historic public rooms — classic romance and view prep for later.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the concierge for a room with a river or terrace view — the hotel often holds a few with the most dramatic vistas.
- Use this hour to change into warmer layers for the evening and charge devices; the château has elegant places to sit privately.
- If you aren't staying here, the lobby is still worth a calm moment together — aim for the mezzanine seating for photos.
Musée de la civilisation — culture at an easy pace
Explore thoughtful exhibits about Quebec's history and contemporary culture; focus on smaller galleries to keep the experience unhurried and intimate.
Tips from local experts:
- Focus on one or two exhibitions rather than the whole museum — lingering in quieter galleries makes the visit more romantic.
- Pick a bench in a gallery to sit together and read exhibit notes aloud — a sweet, private way to share impressions.
- The museum has elevators and wide paths for comfort; if you need a quieter route, staff can suggest less-trafficked galleries.
Couples spa time at S.P.A. - Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (relaxation for two)
A relaxed, couples-friendly spa experience to unwind before your evening — massages, quiet relaxation areas and a chance to refresh.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a couples treatment in advance and mention any preferred scents or pressure levels to personalize the experience.
- Arrive 15 minutes early to enjoy quieter relaxation areas together — September evenings are perfect for pre-dinner calm.
- Bring flip-flops and a robe if provided; small comfort touches make the experience feel more private and luxurious.
Sunset cruise on the St. Lawrence River with Croisières AML
A dedicated sunset cruise offering sweeping river views and the city's skyline as golden hour fades — a highlight romantic moment.
Tips from local experts:
- Book the sunset sailing in advance and request outside seating on the upper deck for the best unobstructed views.
- Bring a warm layer; breezes on the water are cooler in September, and a shared blanket makes the moment cozy.
- Plan for a photo together facing the Château as the city lights begin to glow — the captain often slows for scenic views.
Rooftop cocktails at Le Ciel! Bistro-Bar (panoramic city views)
End the evening with signature cocktails and a revolving panoramic view — intimate lighting and a relaxed bar atmosphere.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a table at the outer rail to enjoy the slow rotation and capture night photos of the lit skyline.
- Order a classic cocktail to share and pair with a small plate so you’re not too full after the cruise.
- If you prefer quieter moments, visit earlier in the evening; late-night can be livelier but still suitable for couples.
Day 2
Île d'Orléans morning tasting and scenic drive; relaxed afternoon in the Plains and pastries, ending with a candlelit fine-dining dinner and a night stroll.
Breakfast at La Maison Smith — cozy coffee and pastries
A warm, intimate café moment to plan the day — enjoy local roast coffee and share a tart or pastry before heading out.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose the Place Royale location for the ambiance and a quick start toward the ferry/bridge access for Île d'Orléans.
- Share a tartelette and a latte so you have energy for the morning drive while keeping the mood light.
- Bring a small backpack with a light layer for both of you — mornings on the island can be cooler and breezy.
Drive to Île d'Orléans via Pont de l'Île d'Orléans (scenic transfer)
A short scenic drive across the island bridge — take it slow and stop at pullouts for river views and fall color.
Tips from local experts:
- Stop at a designated viewpoint right after the bridge for quiet river views and a private photo moment.
- Drive slowly along the island's coastal route (Chemin Royal) to enjoy small farm stands and scenic stops.
- Pack a light blanket and water; several little roadside viewpoints are perfect for an impromptu picnic if you find a quiet spot.
Tasting at Cassis Monna & Filles — island liqueurs and preserves
Sample fragrant cassis liqueurs, jams and local specialties at this family-run producer — a romantic, sensory tasting.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a short tasting in advance and mention it's for a special occasion — sometimes they include small pairing notes.
- Buy a small jar of cassis jam or a bottle of liqueur as a keepsake to enjoy later together back at your hotel.
- If the weather is fine, sit outside for photos among the gardens and vineyard views — early autumn colors are lovely.
Drive back to Québec City (easy return)
Return drive to the city center with time to relax before a leisurely afternoon — take the scenic route back for one last view.
Tips from local experts:
- Leave mid-morning to avoid the small-summer crowds and arrive in the city with time to relax before lunch.
- Pull off at a viewpoint to photograph the St. Lawrence and the island's farms if the light looks special.
- Use this short drive to reconnect and decide together which relaxed afternoon activity you'd prefer (park, pastry, or a nap).
Relaxed lunch at Le Chic Shack — casual and local
A cozy, more casual lunch with well-sourced ingredients — an easy, flavorful meal before an afternoon stroll.
Tips from local experts:
- Order something to share (poutine or a gourmet burger) so you can keep the meal intimate and light.
- Ask for a quieter table away from the front windows if you want a little privacy while dining.
- If the day is sunny, sit near a window to enjoy the last warm autumn rays before the Plains walk.
Stroll and picnic option on the Plains of Abraham (Les Plaines d'Abraham)
Wide open green space ideal for a leisurely walk, quiet picnic or a shared moment on a park bench watching the city skyline.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small picnic blanket and a jar from the morning tasting for an intimate riverside picnic if the weather is fair.
- Walk up to the higher viewpoints together to watch light change across the skyline — perfect for quiet conversation.
- The paths are accessible and flat; pick a bench for a private pause and to avoid busier footpaths near the main attractions.
Afternoon pastry & coffee break at Maison Christian Faure
Share a delicate pastry or éclair in an elegant patisserie — a sweet pause to recharge before the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Try one of the miniature desserts to taste several flavors together without overindulging before dinner.
- Choose a small table by the window to enjoy soft afternoon light and people-watching in Old Québec.
- If you intend to buy desserts to take back, ask staff for a chilled box for safe transport to your room.
Free time to freshen up at your hotel
An unhurried block to rest, dress for dinner, and prepare for your special evening — savor a private moment together.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this time to dress in layers for the evening; September nights can cool quickly after sunset.
- If celebrating something special, ask concierge for a table note or small surprise to make dinner feel more intimate.
- Freshen up with a short walk on the hotel terrace beforehand if you want a pre-dinner photo with the château backdrop.
Candlelit tasting dinner at Restaurant Le Saint-Amour (romantic highlight)
A signature Quebec fine-dining experience — candlelit, refined and perfect for a special evening together (book ahead).
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve the chef's tasting or a quiet table well in advance and mention the occasion for subtle celebratory touches.
- Ask the sommelier for a wine by the glass to pair with your courses — they often suggest local vintages that pair beautifully.
- Leave room for the delicate desserts and request a window or corner table for a more private dining atmosphere.
Night stroll on Terrasse Dufferin — illuminated views of the Château
End the evening with a quiet walk on the terrace overlooking the river and the Château's lit facade — intimate and peaceful.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk slowly to enjoy the city lights; this terrace is busiest at sunset but calms later for a romantic nightcap walk.
- Bring a warm layer and hold hands along the rail — the river breeze can be stronger after dark in September.
- If you want a photo together, the illuminated Château makes a classic backdrop; ask a passerby for a quick couple shot.
