Cycling in Quebec City: rides, trails, and stops at Carrera Café

April 25, 2026Carrera Café

Cycling & Discoveries

Cycling in Quebec City: rides, trails, and stops at Carrera Café

Quebec City is best explored by bike. From the riverside trails to the alleys of Old Quebec, every pedal stroke leads to a new discovery. And for a well-deserved break: the Carrera Café, right in the heart of Petit-Champlain.

Must-do routes

Quebec City offers over 400 km of cycling paths. From the shores of the St. Lawrence River to national parks, there are plenty of options for an outdoor day.

✦ Loop

Plains of Abraham

Cycling on the Plains means cycling through history. A green and panoramic loop in the heart of the city, with views of the river.

Distance

~7 km

Terrain

Slightly hilly

Forest

Bois de Coulonge

A wooded park located in Sillery, ideal for a shaded ride. Mixed trails, river views, hushed atmosphere.

Distance

~5 km of trails

Terrain

Flat and shaded

★ Sporty

Montmorency by bike

For experienced cyclists: the climb to Montmorency Falls offers a physical challenge rewarded with a spectacular view.

Distance

~12 km from Old Quebec

Elevation

Significant

✦ Fatbike

Jacques-Cartier Network

For venturing outside the city: the Jacques-Cartier River offers a mixed forest circuit. Accessible in summer and winter.

Distance

Variable

Level

Intermediate to expert

Cycling doesn't stop in winter

Quebec City is a northern city that embraces its resilience. In winter, fat bike enthusiasts hit the snowy trails with exemplary vigor.

Winter

Fat bike on fresh snow

The oversized tires of the fat bike offer perfect traction on compacted snow. In Quebec City, dedicated trails are maintained throughout the winter in several parks. A unique sensation, between effort and winter magic.

Season

December to March

Rental

Available in the city

★ Barista Tip

After the ride: the perfect reward

After a bike or fat bike ride, nothing beats a stop at Carrera Café. Order a hot latte or a double espresso, and add a Charlevoix charcuterie board to refuel. The ideal paddock after your circuit tour.

Where to rent in Quebec City

No need to bring your bike. Several shops and rental services are available in Old Quebec and near Petit-Champlain.

★ Recommended

Vélo Passe-Sport Plein Air

Rental of standard, hybrid, and fat bikes near the Old Port. Half-day and full-day packages with helmet included.

Sharing

SqÖol & Shared Bike Networks

Several self-service electric and classic bike stations in the city. Convenient for a short outing between two tourist attractions.

Stops to plan

A bike tour also requires planning for meals. Here are the essential stops between two pedal strokes, selected by our team.

Start

Breakfast at Carrera Café

Before setting off: double espresso and avocado-cream cheese toast for a boost of energy. The ideal starting line.

Break

Old Port Market

Mid-way: local products, fresh fruits, and cheese tasting. A refuelling stop worthy of a Tour de France.

★ Finish

Carrera Café board at the end of the route

The day's podium: return to Carrera Café for a charcuterie board and a glass of local beer. The deserved reward.

The cyclist's pit stop

Located in Petit-Champlain, Carrera Café is the natural stop for any cyclist exploring Old Quebec. Sunny terrace, gourmet boards, and specialty coffee.

On the Podium

The best bike rides in Quebec City

  • 01
    Berges Route Cycle along the St. Lawrence in peace. Flat path, magnificent view, accessible to all.
  • 02
    Plains of Abraham A historic and panoramic loop in the heart of the city, between greenery and the river.
  • 03
    Montmorency Falls For the sporty: an ascent rewarded with a breathtaking viewpoint.
  • 04
    Winter fat bike The Nordic version of cycling. On fresh snow, a unique adventure of its kind.
  • 05
    Carrera Café Stop The perfect cyclist's pit stop: specialty coffee and gourmet board in Petit-Champlain.

Carrera Café awaits you in Petit-Champlain for a well-deserved gourmet break after your circuit. Espresso, board, and views of the historic alleys.

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