Start at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, ideally around 9:00, before the Upper Town gets busy. The château itself is a working hotel, but guided historical tours are generally available for approximately C$25–35 and last about an hour; check the day’s schedule in advance, as tour times vary. Afterward, step directly onto Dufferin Terrace for a relaxed 45-minute walk along the riverfront. The broad wooden promenade has excellent views toward Lévis and the St. Lawrence River; in summer, allow extra time for photos and street performers. From here, walk downhill through Old Québec toward Place Royale—about 15–20 minutes on foot, with steep or cobbled sections.
At Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church, take half an hour to admire the intimate interior and the historic square outside, one of the most atmospheric corners of the city. Continue uphill or take the funicular toward Upper Town for lunch at Le Chic Shack. Expect around C$20–35 per person for a burger, poutine, and drink; it is casual and popular, so arriving before noon or after 1:00 p.m. helps avoid the busiest queue. Their Québec-style poutine is the right choice if you want something hearty without committing to a long restaurant meal.
After lunch, walk roughly 15 minutes downhill through Old Québec to the Musée de la civilisation in the Old Port. Plan about two hours for its interactive exhibitions on Québec culture, history, and society; typical adult admission is around C$20–25, with hours commonly extending into the early evening but varying by exhibition and season. Finish at Rue du Petit-Champlain, reached in about 10 minutes from the museum. Spend an unhurried hour browsing the small boutiques, looking up at the stone façades, and photographing the narrow street before it becomes crowded. Wear comfortable shoes throughout—the day is very walkable, but Québec’s hills and uneven paving are more demanding than the distances suggest.