Is Saint-Roch worth visiting in Quebec City?

Yes, it is highly recommended for those who want to see the modern, local side of the city. While the Old Town is historic, Saint-Roch offers the best street art, craft beer, and trendy dining in Quebec City. It provides a more authentic, less touristy experience.

What is the best time of day for this walking route?

Late afternoon is ideal. This allows you to see the murals in daylight and then enjoy the vibrant nightlife and dinner scene on Rue Saint-Joseph as the sun sets. Many locals head here after work, creating a lively atmosphere.

Is this walking route family-friendly?

Absolutely. The Jean-Paul-L'Allier Garden is a great place for kids to run around, and the murals are engaging for all ages. Most restaurants in the area, including Le Bureau de Poste, are welcoming to families during the day and early evening.

Are there hills on this walk?

There is a significant elevation change between the starting point in Upper Town and the rest of the stops in Lower Town. However, you can use the Saint-Roch elevator to avoid steep stairs, making the rest of the walk flat and easy.

Can I see street art on this route?

Yes, Saint-Roch is the hub of Quebec City's mural scene. You will see several large-scale works on Rue Saint-Joseph and around Place de l'Université-du-Québec, though keep in mind that street art can change or be painted over.

How do I get back to the Old Town from the end?

The easiest way is to take the 800 or 801 bus from Rue Saint-Joseph, or walk back to the Saint-Roch elevator (Ascenseur du Faubourg) which takes you back up to the Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighborhood.

Is the walk accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, provided you use the elevator to move between the Upper and Lower towns. The streets within Saint-Roch itself are mostly flat with standard sidewalk cutouts.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 45 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

Saint-Roch was once the industrial heart of Quebec City, but today it is a vibrant hub for tech, art, and foodies. This self-guided walk invites you to step away from the traditional cobblestones of Old Quebec and dive into the city's modern soul. You'll start near the historic Hôtel-Dieu de Québec before descending into the Lower Town. Saint-Roch is a neighborhood of contrasts, where the massive Église Saint-Roch stands alongside cutting-edge murals and bustling microbreweries. As you follow this walking route, you will discover the transformation of Rue Saint-Joseph, a street that has seen a dramatic revival. From the serene, sunken landscapes of Jean-Paul-L'Allier Garden to the quirky atmosphere of local hangouts like Noctem, this neighborhood stroll offers a glimpse into how locals live, work, and play. Whether you are interested in the evolution of urban architecture or the latest street art trends, this self-guided adventure provides the flexibility to explore independently. It is the perfect walking tour Quebec City alternative for those who want to see the "real" city beyond the tourist walls. While many visitors stick to the Upper Town, venturing into Saint-Roch reveals a side of Quebec that is artistic, edgy, and delicious. Experience the craft beer scene, admire the larger-than-life murals that decorate brick walls, and find peace in urban green spaces. This route is designed for those who appreciate the intersection of history and modernity. By the end of your stroll, you'll understand why Saint-Roch is considered the creative heartbeat of the provincial capital. If you've already done a standard guided tour Quebec City travelers often take, this neighborhood-focused journey will be a refreshing change of pace. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The massive Gothic-revival architecture of Église Saint-Roch
Vibrant street art murals on Rue Saint-Joseph
The serene, sunken landscape of Jean-Paul-L'Allier Garden
Quebec's booming craft beer scene at Noctem Artisans Brasseurs
The trendy atmosphere of Quebec's tech and art district

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Hôtel-Dieu de Québec

Start your self-guided adventure at one of the city's most historic sites. Established in 1639 by the Augustinian nuns, this is the oldest hospital north of Mexico. While its architecture reflects the classic style of the Old Town, it serves as a symbolic bridge between the historic heights and the modern valley below. From here, you'll descend toward Saint-Roch, leaving the colonial fortress atmosphere for a more industrial and contemporary landscape. Take a moment to appreciate the view of the Laurentian Mountains in the distance as you prepare to enter the creative heart of the Lower Town.

2

Église Saint-Roch

Standing as the largest church in Quebec City, the Église Saint-Roch is the spiritual and physical center of this neighborhood. Completed in 1923, its Gothic and Romanesque revival architecture is a testament to the area's once-booming population. In the mid-20th century, this area struggled, but the church remained a constant. Today, the plaza in front is a community gathering spot. Look up at the twin spires and notice the intricate stone work. Inside, you'll find a blend of traditional religious art and a scale that rivals many European cathedrals, reflecting the ambition of the working-class parish that built it.

3

Noctem Artisans Brasseurs St-Roch

It is time to experience the modern flavors of the neighborhood. Noctem is a prime example of the craft beer revolution that has revitalized Saint-Roch. This microbrewery is famous for its feline-themed branding and innovative brewing techniques. The atmosphere here is quintessentially local—unpretentious, creative, and welcoming. While the tap list changes frequently with seasonal experiments, the commitment to quality remains constant. This is a great spot to see the neighborhood's younger, tech-savvy population relaxing after work. The industrial-chic interior mirrors the transformation of the surrounding streets from factories to creative studios.

4

Place de l'Université-du-Québec

This public square is the academic and artistic pulse of Saint-Roch. Surrounded by university buildings and tech offices, it often serves as an open-air gallery. Keep an eye out for murals and temporary art installations, which are a hallmark of this district. Because the art scene here is so dynamic, the specific murals you see may change, reflecting the neighborhood's ever-evolving identity. This space highlights the shift from a commercial retail hub to an intellectual and creative center. It is a perfect spot to observe the 'Silicon Valley of Quebec' in action, where heritage buildings house cutting-edge software companies.

5

Jean-Paul-L'Allier Garden

Welcome to one of the city's best-kept secrets. Formerly a concrete parking lot and a highway off-ramp, this sunken garden is a miracle of urban renewal. Named after a former mayor, it features a waterfall, diverse plant life, and sloping lawns that offer a peaceful escape from the city noise. The garden's design uses the natural topography of the cliffside to create a secluded oasis. It is a favorite spot for locals to read, picnic, or enjoy the sun. This green space symbolizes the neighborhood's commitment to livability and modern urban design over industrial utility.

6

Le Bureau de Poste

End your neighborhood stroll at one of the most popular social hubs on Rue Saint-Joseph. Le Bureau de Poste is famous for its unique concept: a fixed, budget-friendly price for all food items and a high-energy, 'après-ski' vibe. The decor features local surf and skate culture, making it feel worlds away from the formal dining rooms of the Upper Town. It is the perfect place to grab a bite and soak in the youthful energy of Saint-Roch. As you sit among the locals, you'll feel the true spirit of this district—vibrant, inclusive, and undeniably cool.

Frequently Asked Questions

The full self-guided walk takes between 90 and 120 minutes depending on your pace. This includes time to admire the murals and perhaps grab a quick drink at a microbrewery. The distance is roughly 1.5 kilometers.