Summer in Quebec City feels like a comfortable mix of warmth, daylight, and activity. Daytime temperatures usually land between 22°C (72°F) and 25°C (77°F), making it the warmest and honestly, the most inviting season here.
Long daylight hours give you plenty of chances to wander historic streets, soak in riverside views, and catch outdoor events without rushing around.
You won’t run into extreme heat, but instead, you’ll notice steady, pleasant conditions that really encourage walking tours, open-air dining, and all sorts of cultural festivals.
Rain rolls in regularly, though it rarely ruins plans for long, since showers tend to be short and scattered throughout the month.
All that mild warmth and consistent rainfall keeps parks and gardens looking extra lush.
With almost 16 hours of daylight at its peak, Quebec City’s summer feels spacious and unhurried.
You can enjoy the buzz of Old Quebec or slip away to quieter green spaces along the St. Lawrence River.
This time of year really stands apart from the city’s long, snowy winters.
Overview of Quebec City’s Summer Climate
Quebec City has warm but not sweltering summers, shaped by its northern spot and continental climate.
You’ll get moderate temperatures, steady rainfall, and long days—perfect for both sightseeing and outdoor fun.
Location and Climate Classification
Quebec City sits along the St. Lawrence River in eastern Canada, about 250 kilometers northeast of Montreal.
Its northern latitude means you’ll feel distinct seasonal contrasts, and the summers are pretty mild compared to places further south.
The city falls under the humid continental climate (Köppen Dfb) category.
This means warm summers, cold winters, and no real dry season.
Rainfall spreads out fairly evenly all year, including the summer.
Because the city sits inland, it misses out on the moderating effects of big bodies of water that coastal spots get.
So, you’ll notice bigger swings in temperature from day to night.
Still, summer afternoons stay warm, while evenings cool off nicely.
Seasonal Temperature Patterns
Summer in Quebec City runs from June through August.
Average daytime highs usually range from 22°C (72°F) in June to 25°C (77°F) in July, which is the warmest stretch.
By August, highs dip just a bit to around 24°C (75°F).
Nights feel much cooler.
In June, lows average about 11°C (52°F), and July and August bring slightly warmer nights at 13–14°C (55–57°F).
This swing between day and night makes mornings and evenings feel refreshing, even in midsummer.
Long daylight hours stand out as another feature.
You’ll get 15 to 16 hours of daylight in June and July, so there’s lots of time to explore.
Sunshine averages about 7–8 hours per day, making it one of the sunniest stretches of the year in Quebec City.
Humidity and Precipitation Trends
Humidity levels in Quebec City during summer usually sit in the moderate range, though July and August can bring a few muggy days.
Average relative humidity hovers around 70–75%, which is pretty normal for this climate.
Rainfall comes steadily.
Monthly totals are between 111 mm (4.4 in) in June and 118 mm (4.6 in) in July, and you’ll get about 14–15 rainy days per month.
Showers tend to be brief and scattered, so outdoor plans don’t get derailed for long.
Thunderstorms pop up in midsummer, but they don’t happen as often or as intensely as they do further south.
The mix of regular rain and warm temperatures keeps the city’s landscape green and lively, making summer a great time to enjoy Quebec City’s parks and riverside walks.
Typical Summer Temperatures in Quebec City
Summer in Québec City brings warm but not extreme weather.
You can count on daytime highs in the low to mid-20s °C (70s °F), and cooler nights that often drop into the low teens °C (50s °F).
Heat waves do show up now and then, but they’re usually short and far less common than in other North American cities.
Average Highs and Lows by Month
Between June and August, Quebec City gets its warmest weather.
June days usually average around 22°C (72°F), with nights dipping to 10°C (50°F).
By July, highs climb to about 25–26°C (77–79°F) and lows hover near 14°C (57°F).
August stays warm but starts to cool a bit, averaging 24°C (75°F) during the day and 13°C (55°F) at night.
This gradual shift makes late summer a little more comfortable for outdoor fun compared to the peak of July.
These averages explain why so many people find Québec City’s summer climate pleasant.
The temperatures are warm enough for sightseeing and festivals, but rarely too hot.
Daytime Versus Nighttime Conditions
Daytimes in Québec City usually feel mild to warm, and highs don’t often go above 30°C (86°F).
The air can get humid, especially in July, but breezes off the St. Lawrence River take the edge off.
Afternoons work well for walking tours, patio meals, and outdoor events.
At night, things change.
Temperatures drop into the low to mid-teens °C (50s °F).
This cooling makes it easy to sleep, even without heavy air conditioning.
If you plan to stay out late, you might want a light jacket, especially in June or August.
The strong difference between day and night means summer days feel warm but never stifling.
That balance helps keep the city’s outdoor events popular with both locals and visitors.
Frequency of Heat Waves
Heat waves don’t happen often in Québec City.
On average, the city only gets about five days per year when temperatures hit or go above 30°C (86°F).
These hot days usually show up in July or early August.
Even when it gets hot, the spells don’t last long—maybe two or three days at most.
Unlike cities further south, temperatures above 35°C (95°F) are almost unheard of.
So, you probably won’t deal with long stretches of extreme heat during your visit.
Still, when it does get hotter, humidity can make the air feel warmer than the numbers suggest.
Drinking water and taking breaks indoors will help you stay comfortable on those rare hot days.
Rainfall and Humidity During Summer
Quebec City’s summer brings steady rainfall, moderate humidity, and the occasional thunderstorm.
You’ll notice frequent wet days, but the weather rarely gets so extreme that it ruins outdoor plans—just pack a little flexibility.
Monthly Rainfall Totals
Rainfall in Quebec City stays pretty consistent through the summer.
You’ll see 111 mm to 118 mm (4.3–4.6 inches) of precipitation each month from June through August.
Rain usually falls on 14 to 15 days per month, so showers happen about every other day.
Most of it is light to moderate, though storms can bring heavier downpours.
Here’s a quick look at average summer rainfall:
| Month | Avg. Rainfall | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| June | ~111 mm | 14 days |
| July | ~118 mm | 15 days |
| August | ~115 mm | 14 days |
This steady pattern fits the humid continental climate of the area.
If you’re planning to be outside, a light rain jacket or umbrella is a good idea.
Humidity Levels and Comfort
Humidity in Quebec City climbs during the summer, but it doesn’t usually get sticky like the tropics.
Average relative humidity sits between 60% and 70%, depending on the day and month.
Late spring and early summer usually feel most comfortable, since humidity is lower.
By July and August, you might notice muggy afternoons, especially during warmer spells.
Even then, cooler nights offer some relief.
Since humidity is moderate, you can enjoy being outside without too much discomfort.
On days when temperatures near the seasonal high of 25°C (77°F), you might feel a bit sticky.
Drinking water and wearing breathable clothes helps.
Thunderstorm Occurrences
Thunderstorms come with the territory in Quebec City’s summer, but they don’t usually last long.
Most storms pop up in the late afternoon or evening when the day’s heat meets moist air.
You’ll get a few stormy days each month, with July being the busiest.
These storms often bring brief heavy rain, gusty winds, and sometimes lightning.
Severe weather isn’t common, but it can happen.
When storms roll through, they tend to move on quickly, so you can get back to your plans within a few hours.
If you’re traveling, it’s smart to check the local forecast and adjust your schedule as needed.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine
Summer in Quebec City delivers long days and steady sunshine, though how much daylight and sun you get shifts as the season moves along.
You’ll catch the longest days in late June and the brightest skies in July, but by late August, daylight shortens and the sun’s a bit weaker.
Length of Days in Summer
Daylight in Quebec City stretches well into the evening during summer.
Around the June solstice, you get close to 16 hours of daylight, which feels pretty luxurious.
As summer rolls on, daylight slowly shrinks.
In July, you still get about 15½ hours, and by late August, it drops to around 13½ hours.
This change is noticeable, especially if you’re planning evening outings.
Long days also mean early sunrises.
In June, the sun’s up before 5 a.m., but by August, it’s closer to 6 a.m.
Sunsets move from nearly 9 p.m. in June to about 7:30 p.m. in late August.
All that light makes summer a favorite for sightseeing and festivals.
Sunshine Duration and UV Index
Even though daylight hours are long, actual sunshine depends on the clouds.
July usually wins as the sunniest month, with about 8.4 hours of sunshine per day.
June and August come in a bit lower, closer to 7 hours daily.
The UV index peaks in late June and July.
Midday numbers often hit the high to very high range, so sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are smart if you’re outside for a while.
Clouds thin out from early to mid-summer, so July generally brings the clearest skies.
By August, overcast days become a bit more common, which means slightly less sunshine—but you’ll still get plenty of bright afternoons.
Outdoor Activities and Local Attractions in Summer
Québec City mixes history, natural scenery, and rural charm in the summer months.
You can wander centuries-old streets, check out dramatic waterfalls, and even get a taste of the farmland that still supports the region.
Exploring Old Québec and Plains of Abraham
Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws you in with cobblestone streets, stone walls, and historic landmarks.
You can wander through Place Royale, see the Citadel, and step inside Notre-Dame de Québec Cathedral Basilica.
The city’s compact layout makes it easy to see a lot on foot.
Just outside the old city walls, you’ll find the Plains of Abraham, a sprawling urban park with a big place in Canadian history.
Now, it’s a green space where you can picnic, cycle, or join guided tours that dig into its military past.
Summer brings outdoor concerts, open-air theater, and cultural festivals to the park.
With wide lawns, shady paths, and river views, the area strikes a nice balance between history and relaxation.
You can spend a few hours or an entire day here without ever leaving the city center.
Visiting Montmorency Falls
Just a short drive from downtown, Montmorency Falls towers higher than Niagara Falls. You’ll find a suspension bridge, staircases, and several lookout points that show off the 83‑meter drop from all sorts of angles.
If you’re feeling energetic, go hike the trails around the park. You can also hop on the cable car and get those sweeping views of the river and Île d’Orléans.
For anyone craving a bit of adrenaline, the zipline across the falls is a wild way to see it all.
The spray from the falls cools the air, which feels amazing on a hot day. Bring comfortable shoes, since the wooden steps and trails get pretty steep.
You can visit any time of year, but summer really gives you the best weather for walking and outdoor fun.
Île d’Orléans Summer Experiences
Île d’Orléans sits just east of Québec City, famous for its farmland, orchards, and cute little villages. Cross the bridge and suddenly you’re in the countryside, where you can pick strawberries, apples, and whatever’s in season right from the farms.
Cycling the island’s 67‑kilometer loop seems to be a favorite for many. You’ll pass through six historic parishes, each with its own charm.
Along the way, stop at roadside stands, wineries, and bakeries. The island is dotted with old stone houses and churches that really show off its French roots.
Summer is hands-down the best time to dive into the island’s food scene. You can try fresh cheeses, cider, and ice cream made with local berries.
Whether you drive or bike, the island moves at a slower pace, which feels like a breath of fresh air after the busy streets of Old Québec.
Comparing Summer to Other Seasons in Quebec City
Summer in Quebec City brings mild warmth, long days, and steady rain. The other seasons feel totally different, with freezing winters, a slow spring thaw, and a colorful but chilly autumn.
Differences Between Summer and Winter
The difference between summer and winter in Quebec City is honestly huge. In July, daytime highs usually hit around 25°C (77°F), but January nights can drop to -17°C (1.4°F).
You go from wandering outdoor festivals in shorts to wrapping up in heavy coats for snowstorms.
Winter days get pretty short, with about 8.6 hours of daylight in December. June, on the other hand, gives you almost 16 hours.
This really changes how much time you spend outside and even the vibe of the city.
Snow takes over in winter. Expect frequent snowfall, icy sidewalks, and temperatures that barely climb above freezing.
Summer brings steady rain, with about 14 to 15 rainy days per month, but there’s usually enough sunshine to balance it out.
Because of these swings, what you do in Quebec City depends a lot on the season. Summer lets you walk those historic streets or take boat rides on the St. Lawrence River.
Winter? You’ll probably ski, skate, or check out the city’s indoor spots instead.
Transition from Spring to Summer
Spring in Quebec City takes its time. March still brings average highs near 1°C (33.8°F), and nights often stay below freezing.
By May, though, daytime highs reach 17°C (62.6°F), and the city starts to wake up.
Rain picks up during these months, going from about 84 mm in March to 110 mm in May.
You might notice things feel a bit damp, but longer days and warmer air make it easier to enjoy being outside.
June marks a real turning point. Average highs climb to 22°C (71.6°F), and daylight stretches past 15 hours.
That’s when outdoor cafés open, flowers bloom in public gardens, and the city truly shifts into its summer groove.
The change from spring to summer isn’t just about the temperature. It’s also about how quickly the city flips from gray, slushy streets to green parks and lively festivals.
Autumn Weather Shifts
Autumn in Quebec City really shakes things up. September usually feels pretty mild, with highs around 18°C (64.4°F).
By November, though, daytime temperatures drop to about 3°C (37.4°F). Nights start dipping below freezing once late fall hits.
September gets the most rain, with about 123 mm, so you’ll probably need an umbrella. After that, precipitation tapers off, but as the air gets colder, rain starts to mix with early snow by November.
Daylight disappears fast. You get nearly 13 hours in September, but by November, you’re down to just 9 hours. That change really cuts into outdoor time compared to those endless summer evenings.
The city’s landscapes absolutely pop in autumn. Trees turn from green to orange, red, and yellow, and it’s honestly a pretty stunning—if brief—show before winter rolls in. If you’re visiting, you’ll enjoy some mild days at first, but it’s smart to expect colder, wetter weather as fall goes on.