You can live in Quebec City without owning a car, but the answer depends heavily on where you live and where you need to go every day.
Central neighborhoods are easiest
Saint-Roch, Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Montcalm, Old Quebec and parts of Limoilou put groceries, restaurants and services within walking distance. They also offer better access to frequent bus corridors than many outer neighborhoods.
RTC buses are the core transit system
The Réseau de transport de la Capitale operates Quebec City’s bus network. Before choosing an apartment, test the actual trip to work or school at the times you would travel rather than judging only by distance on a map.
àVélo helps in warmer months
The city’s electric-assist bike-share network has expanded quickly and can make short trips and hills much easier during its operating season. For more cycling detail, see our bike-friendly Quebec City guide.
Where a car becomes more useful
Outer neighborhoods, industrial employment areas and frequent trips beyond the city can make car ownership or car sharing much more practical. A household can also be car-free most days while using Communauto, taxis or rentals for occasional trips.
Try the commute before moving
The best test is practical: map groceries, work, school, winter walking distance and late-evening transit from the exact address you are considering.
Use the RTC for current routes and schedules.