Why Plan Incentive Travel to Québec City?
If your idea of the perfect incentive travel destination includes cobblestone streets, old-world charm, and a touch of European flair without crossing the Atlantic, then Québec City is calling your name. This hidden gem of North America, and one of Brightspot’s Top 20 Incentive Destinations, delivers a breathtaking blend of history, culture, and adventure, making it an unforgettable reward for top performers.
One of the city’s greatest advantages is its walkability. Located within the walls of Old Québec, a noted UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors can easily explore charming neighborhoods, world-class restaurants, and cultural landmarks all on foot. Your group can transfer to nearby venues via motor coach or choose to walk and enjoy the sites. Whether strolling through the snow-covered streets in winter or basking in the summer ambiance of outdoor cafés, Québec City is a year-round destination that offers something special in every season. From indulging in French-inspired cuisine to embracing winter adventures, every moment in La Belle Province is designed to amaze – not to mention the favorable exchange rate between US and Canadian dollar, making this great city quite the steal. Your groups will have no shortage of exciting and immersive experiences during your incentive travel to Québec City!
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, courtesy of the hotel
Incentive-Worthy Hotels
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
Boasting more than 17,000 rooms, the city itself is full of big name and boutique properties. However, nothing says grandeur like checking into the legendary Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Sitting proudly atop the city’s skyline, this iconic castle-hotel offers unparalleled luxury, history, and views of the St. Lawrence River or the picturesque city. Not only is it the most photographed hotel in the world, but it also immerses guests in elegance, paying homage to its famous guests of the past including music and film stars, members of royal families, heads of state, and more. The hotel features 610 guest rooms and suites, with 70 Fairmont Gold rooms perfect for your next incentive group to gather together in the private lounge and enjoy the additional amenities of this hotel within a hotel.
For groups invested in sustainability, Fairmont and Accor hotels boast a continued effort to reduce their carbon footprint within each of their properties. Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is the first historic hotel in Canada to achieve zero net carbon emissions, and its entire team strives to make a sustainable impact every day to protect the environment and support local business.
Immersive and Authentic Experiences
Walking & Self-Guided Tours
There’s elegance and adventure around every corner, which brings a special type of magic to Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Guests can be led by a tour guide or take in the city at leisure during their down time. They’ll stroll through charming streets lined with boutiques, cozy cafés, and historic and cinematic landmarks like Place Royale and Petit-Champlain, where every corner whispers of Europe without the jetlag. For the more adventurous and athletic-minded, guests can embark on a Fat Bike adventure and take in the sites as they whiz around the city!
Fairmont-Exclusive Experiences
Beyond Gold Level Rooms and the unique experience of staying in an actual castle, another benefit of staying at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is the exclusive experiences to enjoy without leaving the property. The brand’s dedication to goosebump-worthy events and dedication to sustainability are a perfect recipe for unique experiences.
Guests can begin their day with a hands-on bakery workshop led by the renowned Chef Joel Lahon. From chocolates to Québecois pastries, this interactive session satisfies every sweet tooth while providing a delicious taste of the region’s baking traditions.
In the afternoon, guests can indulge in a Bridgerton-style High Tea, overlooking the gorgeous St. Lawrence River, complete with the grand Duchess of the Chateau in attendance to regale the group with historical tales and lessons in classic tea etiquette. A delightful way to slow down and savor the finer things in life!
Chocolate Experience, courtesy of DFMotion Photography
Biking experience, courtesy of the hotel
Sugar Shack Visit & Lunch: A Sweet Tradition
No trip to Québec is complete without a traditional Sugar Shack lunch! This rustic experience immerses guests in Québec’s maple syrup heritage, serving up hearty dishes like tourtière (meat pie), maple-glazed ham, and, of course, fresh maple taffy on snow. A visit to the Sugar Shack is a time-honored tradition that all Québecois experienced growing up – treating your group like part of the family.
Sugar Shack, courtesy of DFMotion Photography
Summertime Activities
Our latest trip was centered around the famous Winter Carnaval, which takes place over two weeks each February, featuring an iconic Ice Palace, family-friendly activities, entertainment, and appearances by Bonhomme, the carnival’s official representative. However, the fun does not stop when the snow begins to melt and the temperatures rise – incentive travel to Québec City is year-round! It’s also the prime season for festivals! The renowned Québec City Summer Festival, one of Canada’s largest music festivals, brings electrifying performances to the city. History lovers can step back in time at the Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France while the Grands Feux Loto-Québec lights up the night sky with spectacular fireworks displays.
For those looking to make the most of the warmer months in Québec City, here are some must-do activities:
- Cruise the St. Lawrence River – Sail along the majestic river and admire a unique perspective of the city and its iconic castle.
- Visit Île d’Orléans – Escape to the countryside for local delicacies and charming farm visits.
- Take a ride on the Charlevoix Train – Experience breathtaking landscapes along a route inaccessible by car.
- Marvel at Montmorency Falls – Witness the power and beauty of one of Québec’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
- Go whale watching – Embark on an unforgettable excursion to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
- See the city from the sky – Hop on a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of Québec City’s stunning skyline.
Dining and Evening Events
La Bûche
For an off-site welcome event that blends authenticity, warmth, and a touch of festive energy, La Bûche in Old Québec is the ultimate group dining destination. Inspired by the traditional Québécois sugar shack, this lively restaurant, a mere 3-minute walk from the Fairmont, offers an immersive experience where rustic charm meets contemporary flavors.
From the moment guests step inside, they are greeted by cozy wooden interiors, local artifacts, and a vibrant ambiance that transports them to the heart of Québec’s rich culinary heritage. The menu is a celebration of classic Québécois cuisine with a modern twist, featuring crowd-pleasing dishes like deconstructed shepherd’s pie, beet tartare, and of course, poutine.
La Bûche, courtesy of the restaurant
Designed with group gatherings in mind, La Bûche offers a spacious private room perfect for corporate events and incentive groups. Live music and unique features like a snow bar create a dynamic and memorable setting, ensuring an unforgettable evening of laughter, great food, and local culture. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back dining experience or a lively celebration, La Bûche delivers a one-of-a-kind setting that captures the spirit of Québec City.
A Night at the Ice Hotel
For a truly bucket-list experience, dinner is held at Hôtel de Glace—North America’s only ice hotel. Guests are transported to a frozen wonderland, dining in a shimmering ice hall before exploring intricately carved ice suites and sipping cocktails from glasses made of ice. The dress code? Warm and comfortable; layers are your best friend!
The Restaurant de l’Hôtel de Glace presents a distinctive culinary adventure within the hotel’s enchanting ice walls. Managed by the esteemed culinary team at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the restaurant crafts a Nordic-inspired three-course menu, blending gourmet flavors with the hotel’s icy ambiance. This is an experience your group will remember for a lifetime.
Hôtel de Glace, courtesy of DFMotion Photography
Farewell Dinner: Evening of Darkness
To end the trip in style, the group gathers for a farewell dinner with a twist—an “Evening of Darkness,” set inside one of the property’s intricate medieval-style rooms, guests are transported to a time of mystery and intrigue. Topped with faux smoke and over-the-top characters to guide you through each course, this unique dining concept enhances the senses, heightens flavors, and leaves a lasting impression. Dress code? Resort chic black—because mystery never goes out of style.
Evening of Darkness, courtesy of DFMotion Photography
Québec City is more than just a destination—it’s an experience. From enchanting streets and world-class dining to adrenaline-filled winter sports, this city delivers the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and luxury for incentive travelers. Whether rewarding top performers or hosting an unforgettable corporate retreat, Québec City offers an extraordinary setting that will leave your team inspired and invigorated.
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Thank you to the incredible team in Québec who hosted us on this magical adventure. The unparalleled hosts from Fairmont, Catherine Lapierre, Micheline Dubé, Yvette Lincoln, and Audrey Beaulieu; our DMC Partners at Inscript Events, JPdL, and Cantrav; our fabulous Québec City Business Destination partner Jason Fajardo; all winter gear provided by the amazing Émilie Pelletier at Tuques et Bicycles; and finally the gorgeous images provided by DFMotion Photography!
