With its four distinct seasons and variable temperatures, choosing the best time to visit Quebec can seem complex. Between lively, warm summers, flamboyant autumn colours and snowy winters, each season offers a unique experience.
Average temperatures range from -15°C in winter to 25°C in summer, dramatically transforming landscapes and available activities according to the season. Dreaming of summer festivals? Hiking in La Mauricie National Park? Or sliding down the snowy slopes at Super Glissades St-Jean-de-Matha?
Check out our tips to choose the best time to visit Quebec, tailored to your interests. From weather conditions and seasonal activities to pricing, here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip at the ideal moment.
At a Glance: Choosing the Best Season to Visit Quebec
| Season | Average Temperatures | Key Activities | Visitor Volume | Budget |
| Summer (June-August) | 20 to 30°C | Festivals, hiking, whale watching | Very high | High |
| Automn (Sept.-Oct.) | 8 to 20°C | Colourful leaves, hiking, photography | Moderate | Moderate |
| Winter (Mid-Dec.-March) | -25 to -10°C | Skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, dog sledding | Medium to high | High (Dec.-Jan.) |
| Spring (April-May) | 1 to 19°C | Sugar shack, geese migration | Low | Economical |
The Four Seasons in Quebec: Features and Activities
Quebec Summer (June to August): A Festive Atmosphere and Nature in Full Bloom
Summer is without a doubt the most popular season for a friends, couple, or family trip to Quebec. Long days and pleasant temperatures – between 20°C and 30°C – make it the perfect time to explore the great outdoors and soak up the lively atmosphere of the cities.
Not to be missed:
- 🎤 Cirque du Soleil shows at Amphithéâtre Cogeco
- 🥾 Hiking in national parks (La Mauricie, Mont-Tremblant) and regional parks (Chute-à-Bull, Lac Taureau, Forêt Ouareau, Sept-Chutes, Rivière-Batiscan)
- 🛶 Kayaking, via ferrata, wildlife watching, swimming in the lakes
Good to know:
- Accommodations fill up quickly: book at least 3 to 6 months in advance.
- Prices are at their peak, especially in July and August.
- Expect some crowds at popular sites.
Autumn (mid-September to mid-October): A Spectacular Show
When Quebec’s forests light up in red, orange and yellow, it’s time for one of the province’s most breathtaking sights. This short window between September and October offers mild weather (8°C to 20°C), exceptional golden light and stunning landscapes.
Why visit in autumn?
- Vibrant colours in the Lanaudière and Mauricie regions
- Perfect light for landscape photography
- Peaceful outings in the forest or on the lakes
- Seaplane tours to admire the colourful canopy
- St-Tite Western Festival! Yeehaw!
Good to know:
- Follow Bonjour Québec’s interactive fall colour map to plan for the best dates.
- Fewer crowds than in summer = more peace and gentler prices.
Quebec Winter (December to March): A White Wonderland and Northern Adventures
Winter in Quebec is a season all its own. Temperatures often drop between -25°C and -10°C, but the snowy landscapes and festive atmosphere are well worth it. Whether you’re a fan of winter sports or curious about local traditions, this is the time to explore Quebec’s northern magic.
Winter essentials:
- ⛷️ Downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding
- 🛷 Snowmobiling, dog sledding, ice climbing
- 🧊 Ice fishing on frozen lakes
- 🎭 Quebec Winter Carnival (February)
- 🌌 Chance to see the Northern Lights
Plan ahead:
- Bring proper gear (extreme cold clothing is essential)
- Book early for the holiday season
- Shorter days, but a one-of-a-kind magical atmosphere
Spring (April to May): Sweet Traditions and Nature Reawakening
Still a bit chilly, often muddy, but deeply charming — spring in Quebec is a time of renewal. It’s the season of maple trees, sugar shacks, roaring rivers and migrating geese. Temperatures slowly climb, from around 1°C in April up to 19°C in May.
Spring experiences:
- 🍁 Traditional meals at sugar shacks (March–April)
- 🦆 Snow goose watching
- 🌷 Flowers, birds, first buds, and milder temperatures
- 🏙️ Urban getaways in Montreal, Trois-Rivières, or Shawinigan, with museums, restaurants, and spring festivals
Advantages:
- Very few tourists = guaranteed tranquility
- Low prices on flights and accommodations
- Ideal time for an off-season city break or road trip
Which Season to Choose Based on Your Interests?
- Attend major cultural festivals: June to September (Festival Western de St-Tite, Quebec City Summer Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival…)
- Admire the colours of autumn: from late September to mid-October, during the Indian summer
- Enjoy snow sports and see the Northern Lights: January to March
- Experience the sugar shack tradition: late March to mid-April, during maple season
- Travel on a budget: save on flights and accommodations in April, May, October and November
Budget and Prices by Season
High Season: July–August and the Holiday Period
Accommodation prices reach their peak during Quebec’s two main high seasons. From June to September, rates increase by 30 to 40% compared to the rest of the year, with a peak from mid-July to mid-August when demand surges.
The holiday period, from December 20 to January 3, is another pricing high point. Hotels are often fully booked several months in advance and chalet rentals in nature can double their usual rates.
To make the most of your budget during these busy times, consider planning your trip at the start of the summer season or opt for alternative accommodations like camping or cabins with basic kitchen facilities, such as LeCAMPING LE GOLLÉ GOULU Gollé Goulu.
Low Season: Savings Opportunities
Take advantage of September to November as well as January and April to stretch your travel budget in Quebec. Flights from UK, for example, can be up to 40% cheaper than during high season.
September offers an excellent balance: temperatures remain pleasant while accommodation prices drop significantly after the summer rush. Savvy travellers book their flights 4 to 5 months in advance and choose midweek departures.
To admire the spectacular autumn colours while saving money, plan your trip during the first two weeks of October. You’ll enjoy ideal conditions to explore national parks and try must-do activities like a seaplane tour over Quebec.
Quebec isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience to be lived in sync with the seasons. Whether you’re tempted by the liveliness of summer, the intimacy of autumn, the magic of winter or the authenticity of spring, each period offers a different… but always memorable journey.
The best time to visit Quebec? Whenever it aligns with your desire for escape, nature, culture or adventure.
Take the time to choose your season… and let yourself be surprised by the beauty and warmth of this one-of-a-kind province.
