Montreal might be the most famous hub in Quebec, but Quebec City is where to go if you’re looking for a more Francophile experience.
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Quebec City is famous for its European architecture, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can feel 400 years of history as you explore its walkable historic district, which is the only fully fortified colonial city in North America. Think: stone streets and a grand chateau overlooking a French-looking village right in the heart of the city.
Great setting and history aside, Quebec City is also a safe, clean place to visit. In winter, it comes alive with holiday charm, from markets to special menus in cozy restaurants. In summer, outdoor activities aren’t hard to find, from kayaking to hiking. Best of all, locals are warm and hospitable to visitors—even those who aren’t good at speaking French.
If you really want to soak up Quebec City’s charm, look for hotels that carry its historic legacy. Or, if you prefer private rentals, check out these historic Airbnbs in Quebec City. They’re near the city’s most walkable streets and deliver on its Old World charm.
[This article is part of TravelAwaits new Airbnb and Vrbo recommendation series. We dig into listings to identify the crème de la crème of Guest Favorites, Superhost listings, and hidden gems to make finding the perfect rental for your next trip a breeze.]
Best historic Airbnbs in Quebec City
- Best pick overall: Experience Old Quebec
- Most charming stay: Historic House in Old Quebec
- Best for couples: Old Quebec Penthouse
- Best location: Au Cœur de St-Roch
- Most modern updates: Old Quebec Ground Floor
- Most luxurious: Old Port Luxury Condo
- Best for groups: Royal Dalhousie
- A history-lite rental: At Napoleon’s
- Best rooftop setup: Old Quebec Studio
Best historic Airbnbs in Quebec City
Experience Old Quebec
If you’re looking for a cozy-yet-rustic historic Airbnb in Quebec City, look no further. This comfortable home has two bedrooms where you can sleep up to four visitors. It’s located in Old Quebec and is a living part of the city’s history (as with the other rentals below). What differentiates this stay is its eclectic elements, which add a bit of life and flair to the historic features. It’s a combination that works well, and that you’ll want to experience twice.
Historic House in Old Quebec
This is an award-winning rental—and it’s not hard to see why. The historic features have been beautifully restored and spotlighted with accompanying antiques and warm décor. Think: French countryside meets Old Quebec City. As a perk, this two-bedroom also has a lovely rooftop hangout space with a grill setup that’s great for warm-weather escapes.
Old Quebec Penthouse
This studio-style second-floor unit offers a cozy setup for couples exploring Quebec City. You’re in the heart of Old City with great views of the surrounding architecture. On top of that, this unit offers two amazing perks: a free underground parking space and a small terrace to enjoy the sights. The clawfoot tub is also perfect for a little scrub-a-dub with your sweetheart.
Au Cœur de St-Roch
This unit is managed by a couple who run a manga store on the ground floor. You’ll feel the warmth and charm of their personal touches throughout, creating a homely and relaxing atmosphere. This building was first built in 1800 and has been carefully restored to show off its stone and brick walls, offering three small bedrooms and a combined living-kitchen setup. But the real star of the show is its location on a small street lined with popular shops, cafes, and more.
Old Quebec Ground Floor
If staying in an old-fashioned historic Airbnb in Quebec City sounds a little too rustic for you, here’s a great middle ground. This two-bedroom is located in a historic home but has been updated with modern features throughout, including in-floor heating, air conditioning, a full kitchen, and a washer/dryer. Plus, there’s a private, sunlit terrace, which is a pretty rare find in Old Quebec.
Old Port Luxury Condo
This two-bedroom luxury stay is available for monthly rentals, although I’m sure you can reach out to the host to ask about shorter stays. The unit is spacious, offering 12-foot ceilings and a private balcony. You can sleep up to five guests using a Murphy bed for a small charge. Aside from the luxury features and roominess, this home is also on a highly sought-after street in Old Quebec that’s home to some of its best fine art galleries.
Royal Dalhousie
With three bedrooms and a spacious living room-kitchen, this beautiful apartment is perfect for groups. It has luxury features throughout that give it a boutique hotel feel, from a standalone tub to St. Lawrence River views from a shared rooftop. Plus, parking spots are available—just make sure to request one when booking.
At Napoleon’s
If you enjoy historic features but don’t want to stay in a rental that is decked out with stone, brick, and antique features, check out this excellent two-bedroom. The location is top-notch, giving you access to the city’s best restaurants and sites a few steps from the door. There’s also plenty of interior features to enjoy. Following its status as a printing press, the space was converted into an architect’s office—and it’s got the beautifully designed features to match, like bookcases fitted into cobbled stone walls.
Old Quebec Studio
If you need a simple and sweet one-bedroom setup for your visit, this studio has all the basics you’ll need. It’s a more spacious studio with a shotgun setup, meaning the bedroom is located on the other side of the apartment from the living room-kitchen. As an added perk, you have access to a furnished rooftop where you can spy on the city’s esteemed architecture.
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