Two and a half hours by train, or three hours by car depending on traffic — the trip from Montreal to Quebec City is short, but the change of scenery is total. The Old Capital has developed a gourmet scene that now rivals that of its big sister on several fronts: creative chefs, committed local producers, and a growing coffee culture. Here is our guide to the perfect gourmet weekend.

Friday night: arrive and settle in the lower town

Arrive late afternoon to enjoy the golden light on the rooftops of Old Quebec. Settle in the Old Port or Petit-Champlain area — within walking distance of everything, and ideally located to start your gourmet exploration. After dropping off your bags, an aperitif is a must at one of the natural wine bars in the lower town, which have flourished in recent years with original offerings and interesting local choices.

For Friday night dinner, book in advance at one of Old Quebec's gourmet restaurants — serious places often fill up on weekends. Contemporary Quebec cuisine is highlighted: game, seafood from the Saint Lawrence, vegetables from local producers in the Laurentians or Charlevoix. It’s a cuisine rooted in the land but freely interpreted by chefs who aren’t afraid to be bold.

Saturday morning: specialty coffee and Old Port market

Start your Saturday with a specialty coffee at Carrera Café — the must-visit spot in Old Québec for serious enthusiasts. A well-extracted espresso or a creamy flat white, paired with a pastry, is the best starting point for a day of gastronomic discoveries. The café’s warm atmosphere, with its mix of locals and cultured visitors, immediately sets the tone for the weekend.

Then, head to the Old Port Market, just steps away. Local producers bring their cheeses, charcuterie, heirloom vegetables, honey, and other specialties. It’s the ideal place to get a feel for local production and bring back some edible souvenirs. Saturday late mornings are lively — plan to spend an hour or two wandering without pressure.

Saturday noon and afternoon: the upper town and its tables

Take the funicular or climb the stairs of Cap-Diamant to explore the upper town. The Grande-Allée and Saint-Jean area is packed with restaurants, bars, and cafés. For lunch, choose a brasserie or bistro style — several chefs have opened more casual spots during the day that let you discover their cuisine at a more accessible price than dinner.

In the afternoon, explore the alleys of Old Québec while digesting. A visit to a wine cellar or a cheese shop is a must — some places offer guided tastings that connect the region’s terroirs with the products in your glass. It’s a way to understand the gastronomic geography of Charlevoix, Île d’Orléans, and the Laurentians from the heart of the city.