Quebec City is generally a very safe destination to visit, with low crime rates and a strong focus on tourism, making it an excellent choice for travelers from around the world.
Safety conditions change. Always check your government's current travel advisory for Quebec City before traveling.
Quick Facts
Overall Safety Assessment
Quebec City is considered one of the safest cities in Canada, with a strong emphasis on community policing and a low crime rate. The city's historic district, a popular tourist area, is particularly well-patrolled, with a visible police presence and a variety of safety measures in place to protect visitors. However, as with any city, there are areas that are considered safer than others, and tourists should take normal precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, but these are relatively rare and can be easily prevented with some basic precautions.
The city's authorities take the safety of tourists very seriously, and there are a variety of initiatives in place to ensure that visitors feel safe and welcome. These include a dedicated tourist police force, which provides assistance and support to visitors, as well as a range of safety measures such as CCTV cameras and emergency phones. Overall, Quebec City is a very safe destination, and with some basic precautions and an awareness of the local environment, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Safety By Area
| Area/Region | Safety Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) | Very Safe | Well-patrolled and popular with tourists |
| Downtown (Centre-ville) | Safe | Busy area with a strong police presence |
| Saint-Roch | Safe | Up-and-coming neighborhood with a mix of shops and restaurants |
| Limoilou | Safe | Residential area with a low crime rate |
| Sainte-Foy | Safe | Suburban area with a low crime rate |
| Haute-Ville | Caution | Some areas can be run-down and have a higher crime rate |
| Bas-Québec (Lower Quebec) | Caution | Some areas can be rough and have a higher crime rate |
| Industrial areas | Avoid | Areas with high crime rates and limited tourist attractions |
Common Risks & Scams
- Pickpocketing and theft in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
- Scams targeting tourists, such as fake petitions or charity collections
- Overcharging by taxi drivers or restaurants
- Slippery sidewalks and roads during winter months
- Crowded streets and narrow sidewalks in popular areas
- Limited English spoken by some locals, which can lead to communication difficulties
- Aggressive panhandling in some areas
- Counterfeit goods being sold by street vendors
Health & Medical
- Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for travel to Quebec City, but it is recommended to be up-to-date on all routine vaccinations.
- Water Safety: Tap water is safe to drink in Quebec City.
- Medical Facilities: Quebec City has a well-developed healthcare system, with several high-quality hospitals and medical facilities.
- Pharmacy Access: Pharmacies are widely available and easily accessible, with many open late or 24 hours.
Practical Safety Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
- Keep valuables secure and consider using a money belt or a secure bag
- Avoid walking alone in dimly lit or deserted areas at night
- Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services
- Keep your hotel room door locked and use the hotel safe
- Be cautious when crossing streets, as drivers may not always stop at crosswalks
- Learn some basic French phrases, such as "bonjour" (hello) and "merci" (thank you), to help you communicate with locals
For Solo & Women Travelers
- Consider staying in well-lit and populated areas, especially at night
- Be cautious when interacting with strangers, and trust your instincts if you feel uncomfortable
- Keep your hotel room number and other personal information private
- Avoid walking alone in deserted areas, and consider using a taxi or ride-sharing service instead
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your drinks, especially in bars and clubs