Located in the heart of the City of Saguenay, in the splendid Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, Chicoutimi captivates with its energy and authenticity. Between grandiose nature, historical heritage, and vibrant cultural life, this Quebec destination has everything to offer. Whether you love the panoramas of the Saguenay Fjord, museums, festivals, or riverside cafés, Chicoutimi promises a rich and varied experience. Dive into our guide to discover the best things to do in Chicoutimi and explore the treasures that give this unique city its charm!
The 20 Best Things to Do in Chicoutimi
Discover Chicoutimi’s Cultural Heritage
1. La Pulperie de Chicoutimi: An Emblematic Regional Museum
The Pulperie de Chicoutimi museum represents the region’s major cultural attraction. This exceptional historical site houses permanent exhibitions that trace the industrial history of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean. The impressive Industrial Cathedrals bear witness to the region’s paper-making past and offer a unique immersive experience. The regional museum also presents temporary exhibitions that celebrate local art and culture.
2. Notre-Dame-du-Bon-Conseil History Centre
This historical centre allows visitors to immerse themselves in Chicoutimi’s religious and educational heritage. Visitors can explore the community’s history and its impact on the development of the City of Saguenay. Here, you’ll discover remarkable architecture and a peaceful atmosphere that testifies to the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
3. Site de La Nouvelle France
For history enthusiasts, the New France Site offers a fascinating perspective on the beginnings of colonization. La Petite Maison Blanche, a symbol of resilience after the 1996 flood, is a memorable stop for understanding Chicoutimi’s recent history. The site’s reconstructions and exhibitions allow visitors to relive the daily life of early settlers and better understand the evolution of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean through the centuries.
Explore Chicoutimi’s Port Area and Its Surroundings
4. Walk Along the Saguenay River
The Chicoutimi port area is now an iconic place for walkers and visitors seeking relaxation. Its wooden boardwalk winds along the Saguenay River, offering spectacular panoramas of the fjord and surrounding hills. You’ll find rest areas, terraces, and cafés where it’s pleasant to stop and admire the landscape. In the evening, the sunset light on the water creates a peaceful and photogenic ambiance.
5. Municipal Parks and Green Spaces
Chicoutimi’s municipal parks offer a true breath of fresh air in the heart of the city. People come here to picnic, walk, bike, or simply relax under the trees. The Belvédère du Semeur, perched on the heights, is particularly appreciated for its exceptional panorama of the city and the Saguenay Fjord. In summer, these green spaces become lively gathering places where cultural events, outdoor shows, and community activities take place.
6. Sainte-Anne Bridge and Sainte-Anne Cross
Symbols of Chicoutimi, the Sainte-Anne Bridge and the Sainte-Anne Cross are must-sees for photography enthusiasts and panoramic viewpoint lovers. The bridge, with its elegant structure, connects historically rich neighborhoods, while the cross, located on the heights, dominates the city and offers a spectacular view of the Saguenay River.
Nature Attractions in Saguenay
Hiking and Panoramic Trails
7. Le-Pic-de-la-Tête-de-Chien Trail
This emblematic trail of the Fjord-du-Saguenay attracts outdoor enthusiasts seeking a challenge. The ascent is demanding, but every step is worth the effort, leading to a summit offering a breathtaking view of the fjord, rocky capes, and surrounding boreal forests. Along the way, hikers encounter rich flora and can observe local wildlife, including seabirds and curious squirrels.
8. Saguenay Fjord National Park
The Saguenay Fjord National Park is an unmissable natural gem of Quebec. With its dozens of kilometers of marked trails, it appeals to both beginner hikers and seasoned adventurers. The viewpoints overlooking the fjord are spectacular, particularly at Cap Trinité and Cap Éternité. In winter, the park transforms into a fairytale landscape, ideal for snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, or photographing snowy landscapes.
Cycling and Bike Paths
9. Véloroute du Fjord du Saguenay
The Véloroute du Fjord du Saguenay is one of Quebec’s most beautiful cycling paths. Passing through Chicoutimi, it connects several municipalities in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean by following the fjord’s meanders. This route offers total immersion in nature, alternating between picturesque villages, lookouts, and wooded sections. Cyclists enjoy secure and well-maintained infrastructure, ideal for day trips or traveling journeys.
10. Véloroute des Bleuets
The Véloroute des Bleuets is a true cycling adventure and one of the tourist jewels of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean. Over 250 kilometers long, it makes a complete loop around Lake Saint-Jean, crossing agricultural landscapes, fine sand beaches, and welcoming villages. Suitable for all levels, this route allows you to discover local culture, regional microbreweries, and blueberry producers, the region’s emblem.
Water Activities on the Saguenay Fjord
11. Sea Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Exploring the Saguenay Fjord by sea kayak is an unforgettable experience for all nature lovers. Guided excursions allow you to learn more about the region’s geology, ecosystem, and marine wildlife, where it’s not uncommon to spot seals, belugas, or great herons. For a gentler experience, stand-up paddleboarding offers a peaceful way to explore the calmer waters of the Saguenay River, perfect at sunrise or sunset.
12. Whale Watching and Fjord Cruises
Whale watching is one of the most memorable experiences to have in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region. From the Petit-Saguenay wharf, located near Chicoutimi, several companies offer guided cruises that allow you to explore the fjord and approach these marine giants while respecting their environment. The spectacle is impressive, especially when belugas or fin whales surface. Whether you choose an excursion boat or a zodiac, each outing promises an unforgettable memory.
Winter Adventures in Chicoutimi
13. Dog Sledding
Winter transforms Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean into a true Nordic paradise, and dog sledding embodies all the magic of this season. Guided by experienced mushers, participants cross snowy forests and the fjord’s winding trails at the pace of enthusiastic dogs. This activity combines adventure, nature, and emotion, while creating an authentic connection with wildlife and the silence of Quebec’s great north.
14. Snowshoeing and Winter Sports
The surroundings of Chicoutimi and the Fjord-du-Saguenay abound with snowshoe trails perfect for discovering snowy landscapes in all their splendor. Walking among fir trees, listening to the crunch of fresh snow, and breathing the crisp northern air provide a rare sense of freedom and calm. Municipal parks, such as Belvédère du Semeur Park, and the Saguenay Fjord National Park are among the most popular places for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobile hiking.
15. Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is an integral part of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean’s winter traditions. Each year, frozen bays and lakes transform into colorful villages of small cabins where a friendly atmosphere reigns. Fishermen pierce the ice, set up their lines, and wait in the warmth of a wood stove, surrounded by silence and pristine landscapes.
Cultural Events and Festivals in Chicoutimi
16. Festival des Vins de Saguenay
The Festival des Vins de Saguenay has become an unmissable event for wine lovers and Quebec terroir enthusiasts. Each summer, Chicoutimi’s port area transforms into a true gourmet village, where winemakers, sommeliers, and local artisans come together. Visitors can taste an impressive selection of wines from Quebec and elsewhere, attend food and wine pairing workshops, and enjoy a festive atmosphere punctuated by outdoor shows.
17. Festival des bières du Monde de Saguenay
The Festival des bières du Monde de Saguenay celebrates the creativity and passion of Quebec and international brewers. This event attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to discover the diversity of craft beers and the richness of local know-how. In a relaxed atmosphere, participants can taste exclusive products, meet master brewers, and attend music events that animate the port area.
Tourist Circuits Around Chicoutimi
18. La Route des Artisans
La Route des artisans is a true celebration of local craftsmanship and regional creativity. By traveling the roads of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, visitors can meet passionate artisans who open the doors of their workshops and share their craft generously. Ceramics, blown glass, wood carving, jewelry, or handmade textiles—each stop is a unique and authentic discovery.
19. The Route du Fjord
The Route du Fjord is an exceptional panoramic route that follows the majestic shores of the Saguenay River, connecting Chicoutimi to La Baie, then to small picturesque villages like L’Anse-Saint-Jean and Saint-Fulgence. This journey reveals spectacular landscapes at every turn, between steep cliffs, dense forests, and impressive viewpoints of the fjord.
20. Route des Bières
The Route des Bières is a must for microbrewery enthusiasts and gourmet discoveries. Crossing Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean from Chicoutimi to Jonquière and beyond, it connects several craft breweries renowned for their creativity and friendly atmosphere. Each stop allows you to taste local beers inspired by the Nordic terroir, often accompanied by regional products.
FAQ: What to Do in Chicoutimi
How long does it take to visit Chicoutimi?
A stay of 3 to 4 days allows you to discover the main attractions of Chicoutimi and Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean. For a more in-depth exploration including hiking, water games, and excursions to La Baie or Lake Saint-Jean, plan a full week.
What free activities can you do in Chicoutimi?
Many free activities allow you to discover Chicoutimi. Simply let yourself be carried away by a stroll on the wooden boardwalk of the port area, explore hiking trails, enjoy outdoor shows in summer, wander through municipal parks, or admire the breathtaking view from the Belvédère du Semeur.
What festivals take place in Chicoutimi?
Chicoutimi hosts several cultural and festive events throughout the year, including:
- Festival International des Rythmes du Monde
- Festival Regard
- The International Puppetry Arts Festival (FIAMS)
- Salon du livre du Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
- Marché de Noël européen de Chicoutimi
- Saguenay Jazz and Blues Festival
- Festirame (regional event with water activities)
- Outdoor shows and events at Parc de la Rivière-du-Moulin
What to do in Chicoutimi in winter?
Visitors can enjoy snowshoe hikes in snowy parks, snowmobile excursions through forests, or experience the Nordic adventure of dog sledding. Ice fishing on frozen lakes and walks in Parc de la Rivière-du-Moulin also offer typically Quebecois moments of relaxation. After a day outdoors, nothing beats a warm meal in a local restaurant to savor the flavors of the fjord.
Where can you admire the best views of the Fjord-du-Saguenay?
Le-Pic-de-la-Tête-de-Chien trail offers the most spectacular panorama. The Belvédère du Semeur, the Sainte-Anne Cross, and several viewpoints along the Fjord Route toward La Baie also offer breathtaking views of the fjord and Saguenay River.
What is the difference between Chicoutimi and Saguenay?
Chicoutimi is one of the three main boroughs of the City of Saguenay, formed in 2002 by the merger of Chicoutimi, Jonquière, La Baie, and other municipalities. Chicoutimi remains the historical and cultural center of this large city.
What is the best hotel in Chicoutimi?
Château Cran Chaud stands out as one of Chicoutimi’s best hotels, combining heritage charm and modern comfort. Installed in the former Sacré-Cœur presbytery, this building classified as cultural heritage has been completely renovated to offer an elegant and soothing atmosphere.
Its spacious rooms, high-end bedding, and high-speed Wi-Fi ensure the most pleasant stay, whether for a romantic getaway, business trip, or discovery weekend in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean. Located in the heart of the city, Château Cran Chaud allows you to easily enjoy restaurants, attractions, and panoramas of the Saguenay Fjord, while offering local and personalized service.
