If you’re planning a trip to Quebec City, visiting Old Quebec is a must. And I highly recommend spending at least a couple nights in Old Quebec so you’ll be close to the action. That way you can walk, dine, drink and shop in this gorgeous and historic area without worrying about driving.
While the visually stunning Fairmont Le Château Frontenac comes to mind when many visitors think about accommodations in Old Quebec, there’s a less imposing near neighbor that offers the same benefits of location at a much-reduced cost.
I’m talking about the Hôtel Terrasse Dufferin. And I’ll explain why this is the best choice for budget travelers who want to stay overnight in Old Quebec.
Hôtel Terrasse Dufferin Overview
The Hotel Terrasse Dufferin was built in 1830 and is located at 6 rue de la Terrasse-Dufferin. It’s truly in the heart of Old Quebec.
It is a 22-room establishment with rooms spread across 4 floors and the basement. Half of the rooms offer views of the Saint Lawrence River, and 4 rooms have balconies as well.
My wife and I stayed in one of the River View rooms with a balcony. It was simply appointed but clean, with coffee maker, TV , telephone and comfortable Queen-sized bed. The room – and the entire hotel – had a very homey charm.
The balcony affords great views of the Terrasse Dufferin, below, and more. At night, you can leave the windows open to hear the comings and goings of the river.
I would highly recommend booking a room with a balcony to get the most from your experience. It’s a great setting to sip your morning coffee.
Hôtel Terrasse Dufferin
Location – Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This
It’s impossible to overemphasize just how great this location is.
When you walk along the Terrasse Dufferin and see the river, the grand Frontenac and the hills beyond it’s absolutely spellbinding. And there are so many sights to see everywhere you look. It’s spectacular.
Hôtel Terrasse Dufferin
Pros
There are many really good reasons to stay at the Hôtel Terrasse Dufferin. These include:
- Amazing location, overlooking Terrasse Dufferin, the Saint Lawrence River and adjacent to
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac - You can walk to the shops and restaurants of Old Quebec with ease, including Lower Old Quebec. Or take a longer stroll right to the historic La Citadelle de Quebec
- Tasteful, clean and comfortable rooms
- Money saved on accommodations can be spent on food, shopping or other activities
- Super-friendly staff members who are always willing to answer questions and provide recommendations
- Employees speak French and English
Cons
Depending on your travel needs and expectations, the Hôtel Terrasse Dufferin may not be for you. The primary drawbacks are:
- No elevators – you must carry your bags up to your room and down again when you check out. If you have mobility issues, any room other than on the 1st floor is probably not the best place to stay.
- Small bedrooms and bathrooms. This is not a luxury hotel, so don’t expect giant rooms.
- Limited on-site parking. If you bring a car, you might need to drop your car at a nearby hotel or parking garage if all the spots are full
- No restaurant on site. This is really an issue so minor that it’s not really an issue at all, as there are numerous places nearby to grab a coffee, beer or wine, snack or full meal. However, the hotel does offer a small continental breakfast
Conclusion
Location, location, location. The Hôtel Terrace Dufferin has that in spades. But it’s also a great choice to spend comfortable nights without spending away all your vacation money. The rooms have everything you need for a comfortable night’s stay, and everything you want to see starts by stepping outside the front door.
I would definitely stay here again, and I know that other couples at the hotel booked rooms for the same week every year to spend an anniversary or to celebrate another event. It’s a popular spot that fills up fast for a reason.
Stay here and you’ll be treated to excellent service, comfortable accommodations and get great value for the money.
And the location!!!
Booking Tip – Do It Now!
Don’t procrastinate to book a room if your travel dates are set. The longer you wait, the better the chances are that all rooms will be booked and you’ll have to scramble for alternative – and less desirable – lodging.
Quebec City – particularly Old Quebec – is a very popular summer and fall destination, and usually the best places fill up months in advance. If you want to stay at Hôtel Terrace Dufferin, book your room now!