Quebec City: Double Decker Express Tour

If you’re visiting Quebec City and looking for a quick, engaging way to get your bearings, the Double Decker Express Tour offers a straightforward option. This hop-on, hop-off style ride provides a glimpse of the city’s most iconic sights from an open-air or inside seat on a classic double-decker bus. It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to familiarize themselves with the layout and history without committing to a full-day tour.

What we love about this experience is how it combines convenience with a bit of fun — sitting on the top deck for panoramic views makes it easy to snap photos and enjoy the city’s charm. The on-board commentary, which gives background info about each site, adds depth to the ride. Plus, the modest price point—under $30—means it’s accessible for most travelers. That said, a potential downside is the reliance on recorded audio, which some reviews find less lively than a personal guide.

This tour suits travelers who want a compact overview of Quebec City’s highlights, especially if you’re short on time or prefer to see a lot without much walking. Families, first-timers, or those with a curiosity for local culture will find it a handy snapshot of the city’s most photogenic corners.

Key Points

• Affordable and convenient way to see Quebec City in about an hour
• Great for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview
• Sit on the top deck for the best views of landmarks
• The audio commentary provides helpful background info, though it’s pre-recorded
• The tour is split evenly between Upper and Lower Town highlights
• Multiple stops allow for further exploration at your own pace

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

Beginning at 12 Rue Sainte-Anne, the tour kicks off right next to the iconic Château Frontenac — a perfect spot to start soaking in the city’s historic vibe. The entire ride lasts about an hour, making it an efficient way to orient yourself before diving deeper into the city on foot or by other means.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour is a circular route that hits all the main spots. It starts with the Plains of Abraham, where Canada’s military history is palpable. You’ll pass by the Tourny Fountain and Parliament Building, giving you a sense of the political heart of Quebec.

Next, you’ll see the famous Grande-Allée Street, known for its lively cafes and historic architecture. Then, the Place d’Youville offers a charming slice of old town life, filled with shops and historic buildings.

No visit to Quebec City is complete without a glance at the Château Frontenac, which dominates the skyline. The bus’s proximity allows for excellent photo opportunities, especially from the upper deck. From there, the tour moves into Upper Town, with views over the Bassin Louise and the city’s skyline.

In Lower Town, you’ll get a taste of the cobbled streets, quaint shops, and the Bassin Louise — a waterfront area with lovely views and opportunities to explore more on foot afterward.

Highlights and What You’ll See

One of the tour’s strengths is how it balances scenic views with informative commentary. According to reviews, the driver and guide (when present) are knowledgeable, personable, and eager to share insights. Travelers appreciated the way the guide handled traffic delays with flexibility and humor, making the ride more enjoyable.

The top deck is where most travelers prefer to sit — you’ll get sweeping vistas that are hard to match from street level. During hot days, being on the upper deck offers some relief from the heat, as one reviewer noted, making it a nice way to cool down while taking in the architecture and cityscape.

The tour also passes by some lesser-known but significant sites, such as the Manège Militaire, rebuilt after a fire, and the Citadelle, which adds a military flavor to the city’s historical story.

What’s Noteworthy

While the overall feedback is positive, some travelers mention that the audio system can be hit or miss. The commentary is pre-recorded, which some find less lively than a live guide. A few reviewers noted that instructions for using the headphones could be clearer, as there were issues with hearing the commentary during parts of the trip.

Traffic can influence the tour length, sometimes extending beyond the planned hour, especially during peak hours or special events like festivals. If you’re tight on time, opting for a morning tour might avoid the most congested times.

Pricing and Value

At approximately $27.86 per person, the ticket offers solid value for a quick overview of Quebec City. It’s especially useful if you’re short on time or want a comfortable way to get your bearings before exploring further. The combination of a comfortable bus ride and informative commentary makes it a practical choice, particularly for families or older travelers who prefer to avoid long walks.

Practical Tips

• Arrive 20-30 minutes early to secure a good seat, especially on the top deck.
• Use the earbuds provided, but test them early to ensure you can hear the commentary.
• Take advantage of the stops to explore on foot — many sites are within walking distance of the bus stops.
• Consider the time of day — earlier in the day might be less crowded and more comfortable, especially in summer heat.
• If you’re a history buff, ask your driver or guide about supplementary sights; the tour covers a lot, but not everything.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers looking for a low-effort, high-reward way to see Quebec City’s essentials will find this tour appealing. It’s great for first-timers wanting a broad overview, those with limited mobility, or families seeking a relaxing introduction. The panoramic views and engaging commentary make it more than just a shuttle — it’s an informal introduction to the city’s personality.

Who Might Not Find It Perfect?

If you prefer personalized guides or in-depth storytelling, you might find the pre-recorded audio less engaging. Some reviews mention that the commentary can feel a bit repetitive or canned. Also, if traffic is heavy, the experience might stretch longer than expected, which could be frustrating if you have tight schedules.

The Sum Up

The Quebec City Double Decker Express Tour offers good value and a practical way to see the city’s highlights in about an hour. Its open-top option provides excellent views, especially for photos, while the audio commentary offers useful context. It’s a convenient, family-friendly way to get a quick sense of Quebec’s different neighborhoods, landmarks, and scenic spots.

While it might not satisfy those seeking an in-depth guide or lively personal narration, it’s perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a relaxing, overview experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to hit the main sights without much hassle, or for those who prefer to explore at their own pace afterward.

Just remember to arrive early, test your headphones, and use the stops to deepen your exploration. For a quick, comfortable introduction to Quebec City, this double-decker bus tour hits the spot.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers, including families with kids, find it suitable. It’s a short, comfortable ride with great views, making it a good introduction for younger travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The ride lasts approximately 1 hour. It’s a quick overview, so plan your day accordingly if you want to visit specific sites afterward.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
The tour requires good weather to run. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I hop off and explore sites?
Yes, the tour has stops where you can disembark and explore further. You can reboard later if the bus is running on schedule.

Is the commentary available in multiple languages?
The tour offers commentary in several languages, with audio available via headphones, though some reviews mention occasional difficulties hearing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the same point: 12 Rue Sainte-Anne, close to Château Frontenac.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers per tour is 51, ensuring a comfortable ride without feeling crowded.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available via Viator or other online booking platforms. Confirmations are sent immediately after booking.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should check with the operator for specific accommodations.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if the Quebec City Double Decker Express Tour fits your travel style. Whether you’re seeking a fun photo opportunity, a quick orientation, or an easy introduction to Quebec’s storied streets, it offers a practical and enjoyable option.