Parliament Building

About Parliament Building

The Parliament Building of Quebec, known locally as Hôtel du Parlement du Québec, serves as the seat of the National Assembly of Quebec. Constructed in the Second Empire architectural style, this prominent structure anchors the capital district of Quebec City. The building features the characteristic mansard roofs, ornate stonework, and symmetrical design typical of this French-inspired architectural tradition. Its commanding presence on Parliament Hill overlooking the Saint Lawrence River makes it a defining landmark of the provincial capital and a symbol of Quebec's democratic governance.

Checked 2026-08-26

What's inside

The interior of the Parliament Building contains the legislative chambers where the National Assembly convenes, including the Salon bleu and the Salon rouge. Visitors may observe the building's ceremonial spaces, historical paintings, and sculptural works that commemorate significant figures and events in Quebec history. The structure houses offices for elected members and administrative functions of the provincial government. Guided tours provide access to selected interior spaces, though specific rooms available for public viewing depend on legislative schedules and official activities at the time of visit.

Checked 2026-08-26

How long to spend

A complete visit to the Parliament Building typically requires approximately sixty to ninety minutes when including a guided tour. Self-directed exploration of the exterior grounds and commemorative monuments surrounding the building may add thirty to forty minutes. Visitors should allocate additional time for security screening procedures upon entry. The duration of any visit may vary considerably depending on whether the National Assembly is in session, as this affects which areas remain accessible to the public and whether guided tours proceed on their regular schedule.

Checked 2026-08-26

Season and crowds

Visitors should consult the official National Assembly website at https://www.assnat.qc.ca/en/visiteurs/visites-guidees/index.html for current tour schedules and availability before planning their visit. The building's function as an active legislative chamber means accessibility fluctuates throughout the year according to the parliamentary calendar. Seasonal variations in Quebec City tourism may affect crowd levels. Visitors should verify whether the National Assembly is sitting, as this status directly impacts tour operations and which interior spaces remain open to the public. Check the operator's own site for the travel date before relying on a schedule or fare.

Checked 2026-08-26

Tickets

The official National Assembly website at https://www.assnat.qc.ca/en/visiteurs/visites-guidees/index.html should be consulted for current admission policies and any applicable fees. Many provincial parliament buildings in Canada offer complimentary guided tours, though this cannot be confirmed for Quebec without official verification. Special access requests, group reservations, or educational programming may involve separate arrangements. Visitors should verify all financial requirements directly with the institution prior to arrival, as policies may change without advance notice in published third-party sources. Check the operator's own site for the travel date before relying on a schedule or fare.

Checked 2026-08-26

Getting there

The Parliament Building occupies a prominent position on Parliament Hill in central Quebec City, within the Upper Town area of the historic core. The building is readily identifiable by its distinctive architecture and the surrounding grounds. Public transit serves the vicinity, with multiple bus routes operating nearby. Walking from the Old Quebec UNESCO World Heritage district requires navigating the elevated terrain characteristic of this portion of the city. Visitors arriving by private vehicle should research parking options in advance, as immediate on-site parking for tourists is limited in this government precinct.

Checked 2026-08-26

What to watch out for

Visitors must pass through security screening to enter the Parliament Building, requiring valid identification and compliance with prohibited items policies. The building remains an active government facility, meaning access restrictions can be imposed without advance notice for official business or security considerations. Demonstrations and political gatherings occasionally occur on the surrounding grounds, which visitors may encounter. Weather conditions in Quebec City vary dramatically by season, affecting both travel to the site and comfort during exterior exploration. Appropriate attire for walking the sloped grounds is advisable regardless of season.

Checked 2026-08-26

Photography

Photography policies inside the Parliament Building are subject to official regulations that visitors must confirm upon arrival or through advance inquiry. Government buildings typically impose restrictions on photographic equipment, flash usage, and recording in sensitive areas. Exterior photography of the architectural facade and commemorative monuments on the grounds is generally permissible from public spaces, though tripod use may require permits. Visitors should respect any instructions from security personnel or tour guides regarding photography. Commercial or professional photography arrangements likely require advance authorization from the National Assembly administration.

Checked 2026-08-26

Where it is

• 45 min

  2 min walk

  fontaine de Tourny

  • Must see
  • Historic monument
• 1 hr 30 min

  3 min walk

  Plains of Abraham Museum

  • Must see · Heritage site
  • Museum
• 2 hours

  4 min walk

  Fortifications of Quebec

  • Must see
  • Historic monument

External links

• View on Wikidata