Musée de la civilisation
Explore human societies, history, and culture through captivating exhibits, from ancient times to modern Quebec.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Musée de la civilisation
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore human societies, history, and culture through captivating exhibits, from ancient times to modern Quebec.
"Amazing experience! Titanic exhibit was so worth it and must watch."
🎟️ Book Titanic tickets online
Save money and guarantee entry to the popular Titanic exhibit by booking in advance.
⏳ Allow a full day
Many exhibits are captivating; plan for a full day to truly explore everything.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Temporary Exhibition Hall
Step back in time to explore the real story of the Titanic with salvaged artifacts and immersive recreations.

This is Our Story: Indigenous Peoples of Quebec
Permanent Exhibition
A moving and insightful look into the history, culture, and contemporary lives of Quebec's First Nations.

The Crowd: A Human Story
Permanent Exhibition
An engaging exploration of human gatherings, from ancient rituals to modern protests, offering a unique perspective on collective behavior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Titanic Exhibit Tickets in Advance
Allocate Ample Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Titanic tickets online
Save money and guarantee entry to the popular Titanic exhibit by booking in advance.
⏳ Allow a full day
Many exhibits are captivating; plan for a full day to truly explore everything.
🎧 Use the audio guide
Enhance your understanding and immersion with personal audio guides for select exhibits.
🗣️ Free guided tours available
Join free guided tours in English and French for deeper insights into exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Titanic tickets online
Save money and guarantee entry to the popular Titanic exhibit by booking in advance.
⏳ Allow a full day
Many exhibits are captivating; plan for a full day to truly explore everything.
🎧 Use the audio guide
Enhance your understanding and immersion with personal audio guides for select exhibits.
🗣️ Free guided tours available
Join free guided tours in English and French for deeper insights into exhibits.
🛍️ Explore the gift shop
Discover unique souvenirs in the gift shop located in a historic building.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Musée de la civilisation for its engaging and diverse exhibitions, particularly the highly recommended Titanic display. The museum offers a deep dive into Quebec's history, Indigenous cultures, and societal themes, making it a top choice for all ages. While some find the admission price a bit high, the quality of the exhibits and the overall experience are widely considered worth it.
"Amazing experience! There was a free show for kids! Loved it! Titanic exhibit was so worth it and must watch. It’s for a very limited time. “ This is our story” exhibit about the Indigenous people was good and sad at the same time. There was another exhibit on one of the refugees which was deeply moving & made me grateful and appreciative of what I have, which we forget at times. This is #1 museum of all museums that I have visited. There’s a free guided tour in English and French for some of the exhibits. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The personal audio guide is a great way of going through some of the exhibits and helps in really feeling and understanding the work. I loved my experience in this museum. My 9 year old loved it too. Totally recommend a visit to this museum!"
Pranali Mestha
"We came here in April 2025 and my 8 year old loved it as did we.
I was a little bummed out that the wrestling exhibit had ended up the inventions part was very cool and unique. We also loved the history of Quebec part and all the animals.
There's also a pretty epic gift shop on the premise in a awesome historical building.
Definitely check this museum out if you're in Quebec City.
5/5
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"
MJG
"I wanted to buy tickets online, but this place is free to Quebec residents on the first sunday of the month so I had to buy on site. The wait was quite long - around 15 minutes. However, this museum is phenomenal! I bought the ticket that included the titanic exhibit (temporary exhibit) and wow, it was so worth it! I spent like 1.5 hours in there! The Crowd exhibit was also worth it! Very interesting take on crowds. I didn’t get to see the rest of the exhibits since time was short! I would recommend a whole day here! Tickets were $25 for me! I heard if you bought it online you can get $3 off!"
Esther
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Musée de la civilisation is conveniently located in Old Quebec, easily accessible by public transport or a pleasant walk from many accommodations. If driving, there are parking options nearby, though they can be pricey. Many visitors find it a central point to explore other attractions in the area.
While ambitious, it's possible but might feel rushed. The museum itself can easily take a full day to explore thoroughly. Consider prioritizing one or the other, or dedicating separate days to each if time allows.
Yes, the museum is generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, ensuring a comfortable visit for families and individuals with mobility needs.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's always best to check the official website before your visit. Typically, it's open Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours on some days.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity of the museum. However, parking in Old Quebec can be expensive, so factor that into your budget.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission prices can vary, but expect to pay around $25 CAD for adults. Purchasing tickets online in advance might offer a small discount.
Yes, Quebec residents can enjoy free admission on the first Sunday of each month. Check the museum's website for any other potential discounts or special offers.
The Titanic exhibition is a special temporary exhibit, and tickets often include access to it. It's highly recommended to book these tickets in advance as they are very popular.
Yes, you can purchase tickets on-site, but be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours or on free admission days.
Refund policies can vary, so it's best to review the terms and conditions when purchasing your tickets online or inquire at the ticket counter.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the temporary Titanic exhibition for its historical artifacts and immersive displays. The permanent 'This is Our Story' exhibit on Indigenous Peoples and 'The Crowd' exhibit are also highly recommended for their insightful content.
Absolutely! Many visitors mention that children, including a 9-year-old and an 8-year-old, thoroughly enjoyed their visit. There are often interactive elements and special programming for younger visitors.
While you can see some exhibits in a few hours, many visitors recommend dedicating a full day to fully appreciate the breadth of the collections and temporary exhibitions.
Yes, the museum offers free guided tours in both English and French for select exhibits, providing deeper context and insights.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in permanent exhibition areas, but it's always best to check signage or ask staff for specific guidelines.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has dining options, including cafes and restaurants, where you can grab a bite to eat. There's also seating available if you bring your own food.
While there are dining facilities, it's generally recommended to consume outside food and beverages in designated areas or before entering the exhibition halls. Check with the museum for their specific policy.
The dining options typically offer a range of choices, from light snacks and coffee to more substantial meals, catering to various tastes.
Old Quebec is brimming with fantastic restaurants and cafes, offering everything from traditional Quebecois cuisine to international flavors. You'll find plenty of choices within walking distance.
Prices at museum cafes can be comparable to other tourist-oriented establishments. For more budget-friendly options, exploring eateries slightly outside the immediate museum vicinity might be beneficial.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can differ for each exhibition. In general, non-flash photography is permitted in permanent galleries, but it's crucial to look for signage or ask museum staff for specific guidance, especially for temporary exhibits like Titanic.
The museum's architecture itself is quite striking, offering great photo opportunities. The exhibits, particularly the Titanic display with its recreated rooms and artifacts, provide unique backdrops. The views of the Old Port from the museum are also picturesque.
Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not allowed in museums to ensure the safety of exhibits and the comfort of other visitors. Always check the museum's specific photography policy.
Commercial photography usually requires special permission and may incur fees. For personal use, non-flash photography is generally permitted, but always adhere to museum guidelines.
The lighting within the museum is controlled for exhibit preservation. However, natural light from windows, especially in common areas or near the Old Port views, can be lovely during daytime hours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Titanic exhibition is a must-see, ensure you book tickets in advance. The museum's permanent exhibits, like 'This is Our Story' on Indigenous Peoples, also offer valuable learning opportunities that can be adapted for younger minds. Consider a full-day visit to allow kids to explore without feeling rushed.
💰 Budget Travelers
While dining inside can add up, consider packing your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy in designated areas or nearby parks. Exploring the museum's permanent collections offers immense value for the admission price, providing hours of educational and engaging content.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond Titanic, the permanent exhibits like 'This is Our Story' (Indigenous Peoples) and 'The Crowd' provide crucial context for understanding Quebec's past and present. The museum's focus on societal evolution and human stories makes for a rich and rewarding historical exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Titanic Exhibition: A Deep Dive
To make the most of this experience, booking tickets in advance is strongly recommended, as it's a popular attraction. The exhibition often includes personal audio guides, which enhance the immersive quality by sharing firsthand accounts and historical context. This allows visitors to connect deeply with the human stories behind the disaster, understanding the lives of those aboard the ill-fated ship.
The exhibition goes beyond just the sinking, exploring the lives of passengers and crew, the technological marvel of the ship, and its lasting legacy. It's a powerful reminder of a pivotal moment in history, presented with sensitivity and respect.
Exploring Quebec's Identity: Permanent Collections
Another cornerstone is 'The Crowd: A Human Story', an exhibition that examines the phenomenon of human gatherings across different cultures and historical periods. It provides a fascinating lens through which to understand social dynamics, collective behavior, and the power of shared experiences. Visitors often find this exhibit thought-provoking and relevant to understanding societal trends.
These permanent collections provide a comprehensive understanding of Quebec's heritage, from its First Nations roots to the social forces that shape its present. They offer a more in-depth, educational experience that complements the excitement of temporary shows.
Family Fun and Educational Experiences
While the Titanic exhibition is a major draw, the museum's permanent exhibits also hold appeal for younger visitors. The 'Crowd' exhibit, for instance, can be made interactive and engaging, and the historical displays about Quebec offer a chance to learn about the region in a fun way. The museum's layout and the availability of audio guides can help keep children entertained and informed.
For parents planning a visit, consider dedicating a full day to allow children to explore at their own pace without feeling rushed. The museum's central location in Old Quebec also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in the area.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit