The Citadel of Quebec: tour of the fortress and changing of the guard with Carrera Café

April 29, 2026Carrera Café

Tour guides

The Citadel of Quebec: fortress tour and changing of the guard with Carrera Café

The Citadel of Quebec is the largest British fortress in North America still occupied by the military. Complete visitor guide with Carrera Café as the perfect stop before or after.

The Citadel

The largest fortress in North America

Built between 1820 and 1850, the Citadel of Quebec is a star-shaped Vauban-style fortress overlooking Cap Diamant. It is the headquarters of the Royal 22nd Regiment, the only francophone infantry regiment in the Canadian army, and the official residence of the Governor General in Quebec.

1820

Construction start

10 AM

Changing of the guard (summer)

15 min

From Carrera Café

The changing of the guard

Every morning in summer (10 AM), the changing of the guard takes place on the Citadel esplanade. Drums, musicians, historic uniforms: it's an impressive military show, free to watch from outside. For families with children, it's a must-see.

The tip

Have your espresso at Carrera Café at 9:30 AM, head up to the Upper Town, arrive at the Citadel by 9:45 AM. You'll have the best spot to watch the 10 AM changing of the guard.

The fortress awaits you

Carrera Café, before the Citadel

Rue du Petit-Champlain, 15 minutes from the Citadel. Espresso before the guard.

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