Speaking French in Quebec City: What you Should Know

Do you need to be fluent in french to visit Quebec City?

Québec City, with its rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant culture, is a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world. However, the question that often looms large for potential tourists is whether it’s necessary to understand or speak French to fully enjoy the city. French, and everything about the French language and how fluent Quebecers (or quebecois in french) are in English is a commun question that we get from tourists on our City Tours de Quebec, at HQ Tourism Services. We’re here to ease your concerns and help you plan an unforgettable visit.

pierre guide touristique — Pierre, one of our amazing tour guide, gives guided tours rain or shine!

The Truth About Speaking French on Your Trip to Quebec City: Language Diversity in Québec City

First and foremost, it’s essential to understand that while French is the official language of Québec, English is far from banned or not spoken at all in this picturesque province. In fact, it’s one of the official languages of Canada, and this linguistic diversity extends to Québec City. You’ll find that many of the city’s residents, particularly in urban settings, are proficient in English, making it more accessible to visitors.

rue petit champlain summer — **Petit Champlain Street** on a summer evening

In Québec City, just as in the rest of the country, bilingualism is encouraged and valued. Many Quebecers have learned English as a secondary language during their school years. This means that you can expect a significant portion of the population to have the basics needed to communicate with English-speaking tourists. In fact, if you venture into the tourism industry, which is thriving in this charming city, most employers actively seek individuals who can converse comfortably in both French and English. So, you’ll find that you won’t be alone in your linguistic preferences.

Bonjour and Merci go a long way

While it’s true that many individuals in the tourism industry in Quebec can converse in English, it’s essential not to assume that everyone is proficient in the language. In this region, taking English for granted can be seen as impolite. English is a skill that requires effort, and Quebecers appreciate it when English speakers make an effort to speak French, even if it’s just using basic phrases like “bonjour” and “merci.”

Here are 10 useful french words and expressions to use during your stay in Quebec City:

Bonjour – Hello
Bonsoir -Good evening
S’il vous plaît – Please
Merci – Thank you
Oui – Yes
Non – No
Excusez-moi – Excuse me
Où est… ? – Where is…?
L’addition – The check (in a restaurant)
Toilettes – Restroom

A Linguistic Minority in a Francophone Province

It’s essential to recognize that English-speaking Quebecers are a linguistic minority in the predominantly French-speaking province of Québec. English speakers in Quebec City represents about 2% of the population. However, their presence, along with the appreciation for linguistic diversity, ensures that English speakers can enjoy a seamless experience exploring the city. You can confidently explore historic sites, indulge in delicious cuisine, and engage with locals without worrying about a language barrier holding you back.

In essence, when you visit Québec City, your lack of French skills should not deter you from experiencing all that this enchanting city has to offer. English is not only accepted but also embraced in many areas, especially those frequented by tourists. From ordering a delectable meal at a local restaurant to seeking directions to a historical site, you’ll find that you can comfortably communicate in English.

epicerie JA Moisan — J.A. Moisan is the oldest grocery store in North America

Do locals speak English in Quebec city?

Yes, many people in Quebec City, particularly in the Old City, can speak English. While French is the official language of Quebec, English is also widely used and understood, making it accessible for English-speaking tourists. Bilingualism is encouraged and valued in Quebec City, and you’ll find that many residents have a basic level of English proficiency. This allows visitors to communicate comfortably in English for most of their needs, especially in tourist-related contexts.

Do locals speak English outside Québec City?

If you plan to venture outside Old Quebec and the city center, it’s essential to be aware that people working in customer service, such as restaurants and boutiques, might not practice their English as frequently as those in the bustling Old City. While language barriers may be more apparent in these areas, don’t let it deter you from exploring the local culture and neighborhoods outside Old Quebec (Limoilou, St-Roch, St-Sauveur, Montcalm, etc…). Even in places where English is less commonly spoken, making an effort to greet locals with a friendly “Bonjour” and a smile can go a long way in building positive interactions and enhancing your Quebec experience.

Here are 10 statistics about the use of French and English in Quebec and Canada:

Quebec:

Primary Language: Approximately 78.1% of the population in Quebec speaks French as their first language, making it the dominant language.
English as a Second Language: About 46,4 %% of the population in Quebec can carry on a conversation in English.

Canada:

Official Languages: Canada is officially bilingual, with both English and French as official languages at the federal level.
Bilingual Population: Approximately 18.3% of the Canadian population is bilingual, speaking both English and French. The majority of bilingual people live in Quebec.
French as a Mother Tongue: In Canada, around 23.2% of the population has French as their mother tongue.
English as a Mother Tongue: English is the mother tongue for approximately 56.0% of Canadians.
Language Demographics: The distribution of French and English speakers varies across provinces and territories. While Quebec is predominantly French-speaking, other provinces, such as New Brunswick, are officially bilingual, and English is the dominant language in most other regions of Canada.

umbrella alley quebec city — Fontaine de Tourny and the Umbrella Alley (Rue du Cul-de-Sac)

Avoid this faux-pas: Quebec is not France

Quebec City is a unique and vibrant destination that offers a distinctive experience from France. Quebecers take pride in their cultural identity and often bristle at the notion that their city is just like its European counterpart. While both regions share a common language, Quebec has forged its own distinct cultural path, with a rich history, a blend of Indigenous and French heritage, and a unique North American influence. From its charming architecture to its diverse traditions, Quebec City stands as a testament to its individuality and should be appreciated on its own terms. We, the quebecois, have our own food, culture, traditions, music, etc. Travelers should recognize the depth of its cultural differences, making it a truly special place to explore.

‘‘I’ve been to Paris once, people were so rude! Are Quebecers rude too?’’

If you want to see a eyes rolls, say this phrase to a quebecois.

A language is not a culture’s whole personality. Are Americans the same as British people? Of course not.

Québecois, like people from any region in the world, can vary in their individual personalities and attitudes. However, most Quebecers are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness. Québec is a popular tourist destination, and its residents often take pride in welcoming visitors from around the world. You can expect to encounter friendly and helpful people during your visit to Québec, but as with any place, it’s essential to be respectful and polite when interacting with the locals.

So, go ahead and plan your visit to Québec City with enthusiasm, and rest assured that you can savor the unique and beautiful culture of this city without the fear of language barriers. Your adventure in Québec City is bound to be memorable, and we wish you a fantastic trip filled with wonderful experiences in our captivating city!