About Me

About Me

My Story

My name is Marie Côté and here are a few words about me. I’ve been a certified local guide in Quebec City since 1986, and a certified tour director since 1988. My elementary and high school studies were at the Ursulines Academy, founded in 1639, the oldest all-girl school in North America. The school is in the heart of the Old City, so you can say that I pretty much grew up surrounded by the history of Quebec, and the Old City was my backyard.

marie ursulines
marie with family
student group picture
photo Marie voyage
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My ancestors

My ancestors sailed to Quebec in 1634, making them one of the founding families of Canada. I’m what we call a “Pure Laine” (pure wool), meaning 100% French Canadian, and have lived in Quebec most of my life (except for 5 years in New York City and Connecticut).

My Career

I started working as a tour guide during my college years as a way to improve my English. It quickly became a passion, and I’ve been exploring and sharing my city with visitors ever since. I also worked as a tour director (in Canada and abroad) for many companies, namely Tauck Tours, one of the largest tour companies in North America. I have been married to a New Yorker for many years, so it gives me a completely different perspective on life in Quebec. The little quirks we take for granted can be mind-boggling to a foreigner! All his questions made me realize that he may not be the only one wondering why we do things in such a way, and “because” was neither an appropriate nor appreciated answer! I therefore did a lot of research to explain the logic behind our madness!!!

My Knowledge for your Benefit

Today, not only do I tour the city of Quebec and the surrounding area, I also teach the 150-hour mandatory certification. I am also in charge of continuing education for different companies. So rest assured, you’ll be in good hands, with a professional and knowledgeable tour guide.

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My Passions

chateau frontenac oth blue sky

Everything Quebec-related

Learning everything there is to know about Quebec fascinates me. Even after 30 some years as a tour guide, I love reading about the many facets of its history; military, culinary, architecture, political… I also love walking the streets of the City, even on my days off!
camera and world map

Traveling

Traveling is my main passion. My husband and I have always say: We work to travel! We are also happy to have passed this passion on to our daughter. We love to go off the beaten path and discover where the locals eat, shop and hang out.
colorful fall leaves

Quebec's four seasons

I also LOVE the four seasons Quebec has to offer, and am quite lucky to have married someone who enjoys them as much as I do!

My Testimonials

My family and I took the old Quebec walking tour designed by Marie. I can't recommend her tour enough. My kids had a blast. If you're even thinking about a walking tour I'd say to book a tour with Marie without giving it a second thought. There's so much valuable insight that you can learn and she keeps everyone engaged throughout. Her tour should actually be a requirement for all who want to gain an understanding of local history and would actually make your whole trip a success.
Punit Shah
Client
''A tourist must always live an unforgettable experience, above his expectations. That is what Marie taught me as a teacher, and that is what she practices as a tour guide.''
-Claude
Former Student
''Marie passed me her passion for the history and culture of our city. Marie will certainly make your stay in Quebec City an unforgettable experience.''
-Emilie
Former Student

Get in Touch

I can't wait to show you around Quebec City! Send me a message using the contact form below and tell me about your travel plans, I'm sure we can create the perfect tour for you.

Enquiry Form

All my Quebec City Tours

old quebec tour
2.5 Hours

Old Quebec Tour

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st roch tour
2.5 Hours

St-Roch Tour

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quebec city custom tour
2 Hours to Full Day Tour

Quebec City Custom Tour

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Limoilou Tour icon
2.5 Hours

Limoilou Tour

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St-Sauveur logo
2.5 Hours

Saint-Sauveur

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st-jean guided tour
2.5 Hours

Saint-Jean-Baptiste Tour

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