SUV Hire
Quebec

After collecting your luggage at Québec City Jean Lesage Airport, the car rental counters are conveniently located directly in the main terminal building. You can complete your paperwork there without needing to take a shuttle or exit the building. Once you have your keys, the rental car pickup area is typically situated in the multi-level car park connected to the terminal. Clear signage will guide you on a short walk to the designated level where your SUV will be ready, ensuring a smooth transition from your flight to the road.

Even with a late-night arrival at YQB, it's sensible to allow at least 60 to 90 minutes from the time your aircraft lands to when you drive away. This buffer accounts for potential delays in disembarking, baggage claim and getting to the rental counter. While the airport may be quieter, rental agency staffing can be reduced, so processing your agreement and inspecting the vehicle can still take time. Allowing this extra window ensures you won't feel rushed when setting off into Québec City.

For the most straightforward drive from the airport to the old city, take Autoroute 540 (Autoroute Duplessis) south to connect with Boulevard Laurier. This main artery becomes Grande Allée as you approach the historic district, leading you directly to the upper part of the old city. The route is well signposted and avoids the steep, narrow streets of the Lower Town, such as the Côte de la Montagne. Using a sat-nav is recommended to help navigate the final turns to your hotel or a parking garage.

If easy parking is a priority, consider staying in neighbourhoods just outside the historic walls. Areas like Sainte-Foy, located near the bridges and the airport, offer numerous hotels with large, complimentary car parks and wider streets. The Sillery neighbourhood also provides a more relaxed atmosphere with easier parking options. These districts provide convenient access to major roads for day trips, allowing you to drive into the historic centre and use a public garage for the day.

Parking directly within the Petit-Champlain quarter is nearly impossible due to the narrow, pedestrian-focused streets. The best strategy is to use one of the large, multi-storey public car parks located on the periphery of the historic district. Garages near the Old Port (Vieux-Port) or City Hall (Hôtel de Ville) are excellent options that require only a short, scenic walk to reach Place Royale. Arriving early in the day will increase your chances of finding a spot easily, especially during peak tourist season.

Yes — the Lower Town (Basse-Ville), particularly the Petit-Champlain and Place Royale areas, features extremely narrow, centuries-old streets where a larger SUV would be very difficult to manoeuvre. Streets like Rue Sous-le-Fort and Rue du Cul-de-Sac are best explored on foot. Even in the Upper Town, some side streets can be tight, so it's generally best to park your SUV in a designated garage and enjoy the historic core on foot.

While all these features are helpful, certified winter tyres are the single most critical component for safety and are legally required in Québec during the winter season. All-wheel drive (AWD) is a very close second, providing essential traction for navigating the city's many steep, icy hills. Good ground clearance is also beneficial for driving through unploughed side streets or accumulated snow. Your rental SUV should be fitted with the mandatory winter tyres, giving you a solid foundation for confident winter driving.

Local drivers rely heavily on experience, caution and vehicles equipped with high-quality winter tyres. They know to reduce speed significantly, avoid sudden braking and maintain momentum when climbing hills. The most challenging areas after snowfall are often the steep residential streets in neighbourhoods like Saint-Jean-Baptiste and Saint-Sauveur. Major arteries like Côte d'Abraham are prioritised for ploughing and salting, but it's always wise to exercise extreme caution throughout the city.

Driving the main loop road, Chemin Royal, around Île d'Orléans in an SUV is a comfortable and scenic experience. The road is a well-maintained two-lane route that suits vehicles of any size. During peak summer and autumn weekends, parking can become congested at popular destinations like the Chocolaterie de l'Île d'Orléans, Cassis Monna & Filles, and various farm stands. To avoid frustration, plan to visit the island early in the day.

An SUV is an excellent choice for this popular day trip, offering comfort and a great view of the St Lawrence River along the way. The primary route, Autoroute 44, is a straightforward drive. Common traffic slowdowns occur near the exit for the falls and on the bridge to Île d'Orléans, especially at weekends. Further along, the town of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré can also experience congestion near the basilica during peak visiting hours, so allowing a little extra travel time is advisable.

For a road trip through Charlevoix you have two excellent options that are easily handled by an SUV. The faster, more direct route is Highway 138, which runs inland and is the main thoroughfare through the region. For a breathtakingly scenic drive, take Route 362, also known as the St Lawrence Route (Route du Fleuve), which winds along the coastline between Baie-Saint-Paul and La Malbaie. This route is slower, with more hills and bends, but offers unforgettable views of the river and countryside.

The most direct and relaxing drive to Baie-Saint-Paul is via Highway 138. This well-maintained road offers a smooth ride with pleasant scenery, taking approximately 90 minutes without stops. An SUV provides a comfortable and stable ride for this journey, allowing you to enjoy the rolling hills and distant river views. By taking the main highway you can conserve your energy for exploring the art galleries and charming streets of Baie-Saint-Paul on arrival.

To ensure a stress-free arrival and secure a good parking spot at Le Massif, especially on a weekend or powder day, plan to leave Québec City early. The drive itself takes about 75 to 90 minutes. Aim to depart at least two hours before the ski lifts are scheduled to open. This buffer will allow for any potential traffic, help you park in one of the more convenient lots at the summit or base, and give you ample time to prepare your gear.

The main and most popular entrance for Jacques-Cartier National Park is the Discovery and Visitors Centre, located in the southern sector of the park. You can reach it by taking Route 175 North from Québec City, a modern and well-maintained road. The park's interior roads are typically gravel but well graded and perfectly suitable for an SUV in any season. An SUV's stability and clearance provide extra confidence, particularly during spring thaw or after heavy rain.

On a fine summer weekend, expect parking lots at popular trailheads, such as those in Jacques-Cartier National Park or at Mont-Sainte-Anne, to fill up very quickly. It is not uncommon for the primary lots to be full by 10 a.m. Having an SUV won't create a parking space, so the best strategy is to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot. Be prepared for the possibility of parking in an overflow lot, which may require a longer walk to the start of your hike.

Mobile service and GPS are generally very reliable along the main corridors like Highway 138 towards Charlevoix and Route 175 towards Saguenay. However, service can become intermittent or completely unavailable once you venture deeper into national parks or onto smaller rural backroads. It is highly recommended to download offline maps of the region to your phone before you depart to avoid getting lost in areas with no signal.

The interchanges where Autoroutes 40, 73 and 440 converge near the bridges can be confusing for first-time visitors. A common mistake is not getting into the correct lane early enough for an exit or a transfer, leading to last-minute, unsafe manoeuvres. The signage is entirely in French, so it's crucial to pay close attention to your sat-nav and the exit numbers well in advance. Staying alert and anticipating your next turn is key to navigating this busy area smoothly.

The most straightforward route from Lévis to Old Québec is via the Pierre Laporte Bridge, which is part of Autoroute 73. After crossing the bridge, the highway seamlessly transitions into Boulevard Laurier, a major city artery. This boulevard then becomes Grande Allée, which leads you directly into the upper, more accessible part of the historic city. This approach is generally less complex and has fewer abrupt turns than the routes leading from the older Québec Bridge.

To connect Québec City and Montréal, use Autoroute 40, which is the most direct route along the north shore of the St Lawrence River. To minimise stress, choose hotels in the suburbs of each city that offer easy highway access and on-site parking. You can then use your SUV for regional day trips and rely on public transport, like the metro in Montréal, to explore the dense downtown cores. This strategy allows you to enjoy the comfort of your vehicle without the hassle of navigating and parking in congested city centres.

A day trip to Tadoussac from Québec City is ambitious but achievable with an early start. The drive is roughly three hours each way, and an SUV will provide a comfortable ride for the long journey. A key planning point is the free ferry crossing the Saguenay River between Baie-Sainte-Catherine and Tadoussac, which can have significant wait times during peak summer season. Be sure to factor this potential delay into your schedule, both going and returning, to avoid missing your whale-watching tour.

For an early winter departure, your best strategy is to stick to the main arteries as long as possible, as they are the first priority for snowploughs. Roads like Grande Allée, Boulevard Laurier and major autoroutes will be in the best condition. Before leaving, completely clear all snow and ice from your SUV for visibility and safety. Always check the Québec 511 road conditions report online before you go and allow at least 30–50% extra travel time.

Parking directly adjacent to the main Carnaval sites, like the Plains of Abraham, is extremely limited and often restricted. The most realistic strategy is to use one of the city's public underground car parks, such as the one at Place D'Youville or near the Parliament Building. From there, it's a reasonable walk to most of the festivities. Arrive early in the day, as even these car parks can fill up quickly during major Carnaval weekends.

Summer in Québec City means extensive roadworks, which can lead to unexpected lane closures, ramp shutdowns and detours, especially on the major autoroutes and bridges. For first-time visitors, the most challenging aspect can be navigating detours where signage is exclusively in French. Relying on a real-time sat-nav app that updates with current traffic and construction information is essential for avoiding major delays and confusion during this season.

The most important thing to remember is that speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour (km/h), not miles per hour. While many signs use universal symbols, all text will be in French; key terms include "Arrêt" (Stop), "Sortie" (Exit) and "Ralentir" (Slow Down). Also, a flashing green light is not a left-turn signal; it gives you the right of way to proceed straight or turn. Paying close attention to these differences will ensure a smoother driving experience.

For a low-walking day, the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec is an excellent choice, offering a dedicated drop-off loop and convenient underground parking. You can also drive along the top of the Plains of Abraham for scenic views with easy pull-offs. For the Funicular, you can drop passengers off near the entrance in the Lower Town before the driver finds parking in a nearby garage. These options minimise walking while still allowing you to experience key city highlights.

Loading and unloading luggage in Old Québec can be challenging due to the narrow streets and very limited curb space. Most hotels have small, designated loading zones where you can stop for a few minutes, but you need to be efficient. It's a good idea to have one person stay with the vehicle while another brings the luggage inside. After unloading, you will almost certainly need to move your SUV to a nearby public car park for long-term parking.

For quick and easy stops with children, focus on the commercial areas in the suburbs along the main highways. The Sainte-Foy district, particularly along Boulevard Laurier, and the area around the Galeries de la Capitale off Autoroute Félix-Leclerc have numerous fast-food restaurants, coffee shops and petrol stations. These locations offer ample parking and familiar options, allowing for a stress-free break without navigating the complexities of downtown traffic.

A good strategy is to tackle the driving-intensive part first. Start your day by driving your SUV to Montmorency Falls, where parking is plentiful and easy. After your visit, drive into the city and park your vehicle for the remainder of the day in a single, centrally located public car park, such as near City Hall. You can then explore Old Québec on foot and walk to your dinner reservation without having to move the car and search for a second parking spot.

The primary route from Québec City to the Saguenay region is Route 175, a modern four-lane dual carriageway that cuts through the Laurentian Wildlife Reserve. The road is very well maintained, making for a smooth drive in an SUV. However, be aware that services like petrol stations and restaurants are sparse for a long stretch within the reserve. It's essential to ensure you have a full tank of fuel before you leave the Québec City area.

To navigate the area near the Citadelle safely, it's best to approach it from the Upper Town. Stick to the main, wider roads like Grande Allée and Avenue Saint-Denis. Avoid the temptation to take smaller side streets that appear to be shortcuts on a map, especially the Côte de la Citadelle, which is very steep. When exploring the Cap-Blanc area below, it's better to park elsewhere and walk, as the streets there are residential and extremely narrow.

The most convenient and stress-free places to refuel are located near the airport and major highways, away from the city centre. Look for petrol stations along Boulevard Wilfrid-Hamel (Route 138) as you head towards YQB airport. Another excellent option is the area of Sainte-Foy near the major shopping centres and the Québec and Pierre Laporte bridges. These locations offer easy access from the highway and a quick return to the rental car facility.

If you encounter an issue with your vehicle, the most efficient course of action is to call the rental company's customer service number provided on your rental agreement immediately. Explain the situation clearly and follow their instructions. They will typically direct you to return to the airport location, as it has the largest fleet and is best equipped to handle exchanges quickly. Acting promptly and communicating directly is the key to minimising any disruption to your travel plans.

To make the return process smoother with bulky items, use a two-step approach. First, drive to the airport's departures level and drop off your passengers and all the luggage at the kerb with your airline. While they begin the check-in process, you can proceed alone to the car rental return area. This strategy avoids the difficulty of manoeuvring skis, buggies and heavy bags from the parking garage to the terminal, saving time and effort.

During peak travel periods like holidays or the height of summer, it is crucial to allow extra time. Plan to arrive at the car rental return area at least three hours before a domestic flight and four hours before an international flight. This generous buffer accounts for potential queues at the rental counter, the walk to the terminal and longer-than-usual waits at airline check-in and security screening. It's always better to have extra time to relax than to be rushing to your gate.

An SUV is most beneficial for a weekend itinerary that extends beyond the walls of Old Québec. If you plan to visit Montmorency Falls, explore the scenic roads of Île d'Orléans, or go for a hike in a nearby park, having a vehicle is essential. However, if your plan is to focus exclusively on the historic districts of Old Québec and Petit-Champlain, you will find walking, taxis or ride-sharing services more convenient than managing a car and parking.

Your choice depends on your priorities. A compact SUV offers better fuel economy for long highway stretches and is much easier to manoeuvre and park in the tight streets of historic towns like Baie-Saint-Paul or Tadoussac. A full-size SUV provides more space for passengers and luggage, offering superior comfort on extended drives. If your group is small and you value agility, choose a compact; for larger groups or those prioritising space and comfort, a full-size model is the better option.

Driving in heavy rain or freezing rain requires heightened caution, even in a capable SUV. The first areas to become slick are typically bridges, overpasses and the city's many steep hills, like the Côte d'Abraham. In freezing rain conditions, these inclines can become extremely hazardous or even impassable. It's essential to reduce your speed, increase your following distance and avoid sudden movements to maintain control of the vehicle on treacherous surfaces.

Most of the modern, public car parks in Québec City, including the major ones serving the Old Port and the Grande Allée area, are designed to accommodate standard and mid-size SUVs without any issue. However, if you are driving a particularly large, full-size SUV with a roof rack or cargo box, it is always prudent to check the posted height clearance sign at the car park entrance. Older, smaller private garages may have lower clearances.

For a food-focused trip with easier parking, explore the culinary scenes in neighbourhoods outside the historic core. Areas like Limoilou, Saint-Roch and the Maguire Avenue area in Sillery have become foodie hotspots with acclaimed restaurants. These neighbourhoods generally offer more accessible on-street parking in the evenings compared to Old Québec. An SUV makes it simple to drive between these districts to sample a wider variety of the city's excellent dining options.

A fantastic and easy route for sunset views is to drive across the Pierre Laporte Bridge to the South Shore and find a spot along the waterfront in Lévis, which offers a stunning panorama of the Québec City skyline. For elevated views, head up to the Plains of Abraham, where you can drive along Avenue Ontario for good vantage points. Another excellent option is a leisurely drive around Île d'Orléans, which provides beautiful perspectives of the city and the St Lawrence River at dusk.