Review of the Hotel Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City, Canada

Do you have a hotel in North America that you just absolutely HAVE to stay in? There are several hotels on my bucket list, including the Salish Lodge in Washington, the Waldorf Astoria in NYC, and the Hotel del Coronado in California. A few weeks ago, as part of my attendance at the Women in Travel Summit (WITS), I had the opportunity to stay at the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac Hotel in Quebec City, Canada, a hotel that was on my bucket list.

This post includes affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us. I received a discounted rate from Hotel Chateau Frontenac as a group conference attendee. All opinions are my own.

This isn’t just a beautiful hotel – it’s also a widely photographed and toured hotel.  Even if you haven’t been to Quebec City, you’ve probably seen photos of the Chateau Frontenac – it looks like a castle. I’ve never stayed in a hotel that doubles as a tourist attraction, but I absolutely loved my stay at the Chateau Frontenac.

If you are planning a vacation to Quebec City with kids, and want to splurge on a luxurious stay, I’d definitely recommend staying at the Fairmont le Château Frontenac.

Review of the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac Hotel in Quebec City, Canada

Location of the Hotel Chateau Frontenac

There are several areas of the city, but the most popular tourist area is Old Quebec, within the walls. The Hotel Chateau Frontenac, built in 1893, is located right in the center of the action, on the St. Lawrence River. It’s right in the city center and is an excellent location for your vacation.

Once you check into the hotel, you won’t need a car to explore most of the city. It’s an extremely walkable city, and parking is very limited at the various restaurants and shops. Despite the central location and tourist crowds outside, I found my room to be nice and quiet.

Are you planning on flying into Quebec City? Jean-Lesage Airport in Quebec City is about 20 minutes away from the hotel. There are several different transportation options, including Uber, cabs, private cars, and a hotel shuttle.

For my solo visit, I chose to take the hotel shuttle and found it to be extremely comfortable and convenient. It’s best, however for those arriving individually. If you are traveling as a family, a private car or a cab is probably the better and more affordable option.

About the Chateau Frontenac

The Chateau Frontenac hotel was commissioned by the General Manager of the Canadian Pacific Railway and was designed by architect Bruce Price. It was built in seven stages from 1892-1893 and has had several additions over the years.

Despite being an older hotel, it’s been modernized and updated. It has all of the amenities and features of newer hotels. It is quaint and charming but still feels modern.

Until my time at the Chateau Frontenac, I’d never stayed in a hotel that was such a big tourist attraction. Because of that, tourists were always in the lobby (guided tours of the hotel are available for an additional cost and are offered to the general public), and around the resort. People are constantly visiting the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac at all times of the day.

It wasn’t at all inconvenient, however. It’s a big hotel and doesn’t feel crowded. You just have to expect there to be tourists in the lobby all the time.

Amenities at the Chateau Frontenac

In addition to the rich history and perfect location, the Chateau Frontenac also offers some fabulous family-friendly amenities. There are several different room views, some with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River or the city.

Want to work out during you vacation? The hotel has a large fitness center, as well as an indoor pool.

When I visited this area of the hotel, there was no one in the pool or the fitness center, which isn’t surprising. There’s so much to do in the city, and you can get plenty of exercise by walking or running outside.

There’s also a fabulous spa if you are looking for some pampering while staying at the Chateau Frontenac. You’ll also find a hair salon, several shops and boutiques, a concierge (who can help you book restaurant reservations), and a business center. The resort does have WiFi throughout the property, although a fee may apply depending on your Fairmont Gold status.

My favorite amenity at the Chateau Frontenac, however, is the Canine Ambassador, Daphnie. Daphnie sits in the lobby of the hotel greeting guests. I always miss my dog Polly when I’m traveling, so it was nice to see another dog each day.

Guests are welcome to stay with their dogs at the Chateau Frontenac. However, there is a housekeeping fee, and only certain floors are pet-friendly. Make sure you work directly with the hotel to be sure to get a pet-friendly room.

There are electric car chargers, as well as a business center. Luxury car rentals are also available, although you’ll be able to walk to most downtown locations thanks to the fantastic location. Helpful staff are around everywhere to help you make the most of your stay.

Rooms at the Chateau Frontenac

When I booked my hotel room at the Chateau Frontenac, I was amazed by the number of room types they offer. Among the 600+ guest rooms, you’ll find Fairmont Rooms, Fairmont City View Rooms, Fairmont River View Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Deluxe City View Rooms, Deluxe River View Rooms, and Signature Rooms.

Suites at the hotel are also available for those looking for more space. Within the various room types, you’ll find different bed configurations including one queen bed, one king bed, and two double beds.

Although I booked a deluxe city view room, my room had a beautiful view of the river in addition to a view of the city. The room had a television, a small table with two chairs, a larger armchair, a closet, a minibar, a Keurig coffee maker, and a bathroom with a large sink and shower.

The king bed was extremely comfortable, and the room was modern and quiet. Turndown service in the evening is offered by request, although I decided not to call. Rooms include bathrobes, and cribs are available if you need them.

Food at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

Quebec City is filled with delicious restaurants, but there are several great options available without even leaving the hotel. On my first day, I ate at Bistro Le Sam, a restaurant and bar located right off of Dufferin Terrace overlooking the Saint Lawrence River.

I easily could have eaten all of my meals here – the food was absolutely delicious, the drinks were fabulous, and the views were gorgeous. I would even plan to visit Bistro Le Sam for a drink and appetizers even if I wasn’t staying at the hotel.

For more of an adult atmosphere, there’s 1608. It’s not a spot where I would bring kids, but it is fun for a drink and a quick bite of food. While I was there, they were just renovating the bar, so it looks brand new.

Our conference included breakfast, so I didn’t eat breakfast in the hotel restaurant. The Place Dufferin offers a buffet breakfast, as well as a la carte options.

I heard from other hotel guests that it was absolutely delicious. There’s also the more formal Champlain Restaurant for upscale dining. Room service is also available.

To read more Chateau Frontenac reviews and see rates, click here.

Have you stayed at the Chateau Frontenac?