Quebec city: A chic and charming winter travel destination

1. Hot chocolate break

Cozy up at Le Petit Cochon Dingue, adored by locals for its open kitchen and friendly vibe. Watch pastry masters bake French-Canadian treats like sugar pie and beat the chill with a rich café Moka bowl. 24 Boul. Champlain.

2. Amazing views

Take in some of the city's best sights and soulful local jazz at Le St-Laurent Bar. The voice of Mademoizelle Fizz will dazzle while you sip a martini named after a famous guest of yore. Winston Churchill, anyone? 1 Rue des Carrières.

3. À la mode

Find everything from stylish Malene Birger blouses to metallic Robert Rodriguez leggings at Esther P, where French-Canadian fashionistas spend hours combing the racks. Stylist Ysabelle Mercier loves bringing clients to Esther P. "It's the essential fashion address in the city—they carry all the hottest trends," she says. Its award-winning interior design is worth a look, too. 873 Rue St-Jean.

4. Artful deco

Set your sights on stunning works of art from talented artisan Isabelle Malo at Fusion & Couleurs. From serving dishes to classic vases, every hand-painted glass piece makes the perfect gift. 55 Rue Sous-le-Fort.

5. Designer duds

Get lost at Simons, Quebec's hidden gem for designer labels. Load up on favourite brands (at great prices) like Missoni, Stella McCartney and Chloé, at this treasured department store. 20 Côte de la Fabrique.

6. Bliss out

After a morning of snowshoeing or dogsledding, hit Izba Spa for the afternoon. The California massages are top of our list. 36 Boul. René-Lévesque.

7. Festival magic

Mark your calendars! February is time for Carnaval de Québec, where the city really comes alive. It's hard to know what to do first: 400-foot ice slide or outdoor spa? Just don't miss the Sugar Shack's $3 maple taffy on snow. Feb. 1 to 17.