A long layover in Quebec is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Quebec Jean Lesage International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 70 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave YQB:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Canada. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Quebec takes about 70 minutes by RTC Bus (Routes 76 or 80). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CAD. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Spend Your Time in Quebec
Two recommendations for your time in Quebec:
Start with Old Quebec Walking Tour. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside YQB, you can spend time at National Bank Lounge (Salon Banque Nationale) or try Dufry Duty-Free Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Quebec: Aux Anciens Canadiens and Le Lapin Sauté. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Resto Bar VUE or Tim Hortons. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Getting to Quebec from the Airport
From YQB, the RTC Bus (Routes 76 or 80) gets you to Quebec in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the RTC Bus (Routes 76 or 80) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Quebec Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Quebec might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$19 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$39 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage Options
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At YQB, you’ll find bag storage at Not available at this airport..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at YQB, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Quebec itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Canada that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at YQB, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Quebec exploring the streets or relaxing at YQB, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.