Quebec City Ferry to Lévis Review: Is It Worth the Trip?
We crossed the St. Lawrence River to see if this affordable ferry ride belongs on your Quebec City itinerary.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to see some of the best views in Quebec City, the Quebec City Ferry to Lévis deserves a spot on your itinerary. Many visitors walk past the ferry terminal without realizing they can enjoy stunning views of Château Frontenac, Old Quebec, and the St. Lawrence River for just a few dollars.
During our visit to Quebec City for TBEX, my husband and I took the ferry on a rainy afternoon. Even with the gray skies, the views from the water were incredible. The crossing took about 20 minutes each way, the ferry was easy to find, and we never had to deal with crowds. After spending some time exploring Lévis, we hopped back on for another scenic ride across the river.
If you’re wondering whether the ferry is worth your time, how much it costs, or what you’ll find once you arrive in Lévis, I’ll share our experience and tips to help you decide if this popular ferry ride belongs on your Quebec City itinerary.
Is the Quebec City Ferry to Lévis Worth It?
Yes, we think the Quebec City Ferry to Lévis is absolutely worth it. The ferry offers some of the best views of Quebec City for a fraction of the cost of many other attractions. You get a relaxing ride across the St. Lawrence River while enjoying incredible views of Château Frontenac and the historic skyline.
What surprised us most was how enjoyable the experience was despite the rainy weather. We expected a simple ferry ride from one side of the river to the other. Instead, it felt like a sightseeing cruise with constantly changing views of Old Quebec and the waterfront.
The ferry also fits easily into most Quebec City itineraries. The terminal sits within walking distance of many popular attractions in Old Quebec, making it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing. The crossing takes about 20 minutes each way, so you can enjoy the experience without dedicating an entire day to it.
While Lévis itself may not be the main attraction for every visitor, stepping off the ferry gives you a completely different perspective of Quebec City. Looking back across the river, you’ll find some of the most impressive views of Château Frontenac and the city skyline.
If you’re looking for an affordable activity, a unique photo opportunity, or simply a chance to experience the St. Lawrence River, the Quebec City Ferry to Lévis delivers all three.
Our Quebec City Ferry Experience
During our visit to Quebec City for TBEX, we decided to take the ferry to Lévis after spending the morning exploring Old Quebec. The ferry terminal was easy to find along the waterfront, and purchasing tickets was simple. An attendant helped us at the ticket window, and we paid with a credit card before boarding.
The weather wasn’t ideal on the day we visited. Rain fell for much of the afternoon, but that didn’t take away from the experience. The 20-minute crossing offered beautiful views of Château Frontenac, the Old Quebec skyline, and the St. Lawrence River. Even through the clouds and light rain, the city looked impressive from the water.
After arriving in Lévis, we spent some time walking around the area near the terminal. It was fairly quiet during our visit, and many of the restaurants and bars appeared to be preparing to open later for dinner service. We enjoyed the waterfront views before boarding the ferry for the return trip, which gave us another opportunity to admire Quebec City from a completely different perspective.
How to Take the Quebec City Ferry to Lévis
Where Is the Ferry Terminal?
The Quebec City ferry terminal is located along the waterfront in Lower Town near Old Quebec. We found it easy to reach on foot while exploring the area around Place Royale and the Old Port.
Ticket Prices and Payment Options
Tickets are affordable, making the ferry one of the best values in Quebec City. During our visit, we purchased our tickets from an attendant at the terminal and paid with a credit card.
Ferry Schedule and Crossing Time
The ferry operates throughout the day with frequent departures between Quebec City and Lévis. Our crossing took about 20 minutes each way, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.
What Is the Ferry Like Inside?
The ferry offers both indoor and outdoor seating areas. We spent most of our time enjoying the views of the river and skyline, but the indoor areas provide a comfortable place to sit when the weather isn’t cooperating.
Is the Ferry Accessible?
The ferry accommodates passengers of varying mobility levels and provides accessible boarding options. Visitors who need accessibility assistance should have little trouble using the service.
Can You Bring a Car or Bicycle on the Ferry?
Yes, the ferry carries pedestrians, bicycles, and vehicles. Most visitors exploring Old Quebec will likely walk aboard, but the ferry also serves as a practical transportation option for locals and travelers.
5 Reasons We Recommend the Quebec City Ferry to Lévis
1. Incredible Views of Château Frontenac
The ferry provides some of the best views of Château Frontenac. Seeing the iconic hotel from the river offers a perspective you can’t get from inside Old Quebec.
2. Amazing Photos of Old Quebec
Photographers will love the skyline views from the water. The ferry gives you plenty of opportunities to capture memorable photos during the crossing.
3. A Chance to Experience the St. Lawrence River
Many visitors see the river but never spend time on it. The ferry lets you experience the St. Lawrence River without booking an expensive tour.
4. An Affordable Activity
Quebec City has many great attractions, but few offer as much value as the ferry. The low ticket price makes it easy to add to almost any budget.
5. Easy to Fit Into Your Day
With a crossing time of about 20 minutes each way, the ferry doesn’t require a major time commitment. You can easily combine it with other activities in Old Quebec.
What to Expect When You Arrive in Lévis
When you step off the ferry in Lévis, you’ll immediately notice beautiful views back toward Quebec City. The waterfront area near the terminal is pleasant for a short walk and offers excellent photo opportunities of Château Frontenac and the Old Quebec skyline.
During our visit, the area was quiet and not very crowded. We spent some time walking around before catching the ferry back to Quebec City. Many of the nearby restaurants and bars appeared to be opening later in the day for dinner service.
If your main goal is sightseeing, you don’t need to spend hours in Lévis. Even a short visit gives you the chance to enjoy a different perspective of Quebec City before returning across the river.
Where to Get the Best Photos on the Quebec City Ferry
Photographing Château Frontenac
One of the best photo opportunities comes as the ferry moves away from Quebec City. The view of Château Frontenac rising above the city is impressive and gives you a perspective that few other locations can match.
Capturing the Quebec City Skyline
The open areas of the ferry provide excellent views of Old Quebec and the waterfront. Even on our rainy afternoon, the skyline looked beautiful from the river.
Views From Lévis
Don’t put your camera away when you arrive in Lévis. Some of our favorite views came from the waterfront looking back toward Quebec City, where Château Frontenac and the historic skyline dominate the horizon.
How Much Time Should You Allow for the Quebec City Ferry?
Quick Round-Trip Option
If you simply want to enjoy the views and take photos, allow about one hour. This gives you enough time for a round-trip crossing and a few minutes at each terminal.
Exploring Lévis
Visitors who want to walk along the waterfront or stop for a meal should plan for two to three hours. This allows time to enjoy the views and explore the area at a relaxed pace.
Combining the Ferry With Old Quebec
The ferry works well as part of a day in Old Quebec. Many visitors can easily fit it between visits to attractions such as Place Royale, Petit Champlain, and Château Frontenac.
Tips for Taking the Quebec City Ferry
Best Time of Day for Photos
Morning and late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photos. Sunset can be especially beautiful when the skyline begins to glow.
Visiting in Different Seasons
The ferry operates year-round and offers a different experience in every season. Summer provides pleasant weather, while fall and winter can create stunning views of the city.
Bring a Rain Jacket
Weather along the St. Lawrence River can change quickly. We visited on a rainy afternoon and were glad to have rain gear so we could continue enjoying the outdoor views.
Don’t Skip the Outdoor Deck
The outdoor areas offer the best views of Château Frontenac, Old Quebec, and the river. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, spending a few minutes outside is worth it for the scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Quebec Ferry to Levis
If you’re considering the Quebec City Ferry to Lévis during your trip, these answers may help you plan your visit.
Yes, you can use public transportation after arriving in Lévis. Local buses connect the ferry terminal with other parts of the city, making it easy to explore beyond the waterfront without needing a car.
Yes, the ferry is a good activity for families with children. The short crossing time, open views of the river, and opportunity to watch boats and waterfront activity help keep kids entertained.
No, you generally do not need to reserve tickets in advance. Most passengers purchase tickets at the terminal before boarding, making the ferry a flexible activity that can easily fit into your day.
The Wrap-Up: Quebec City Ferry to Lévis
The Quebec City Ferry to Lévis turned out to be one of our favorite inexpensive activities in Quebec City. Between the scenic ride across the St. Lawrence River, the impressive views of Château Frontenac, and the opportunity to see the city from a different perspective, it offered much more than simple transportation.
Whether you take a quick round trip or spend time exploring Lévis, the ferry is an easy addition to almost any Quebec City itinerary. If you’re planning more time in the area, continue exploring some of our favorite Quebec City experiences to make the most of your visit.
