Auberge Place D’Armes

Auberge Place D'Armes is housed in two buildings: a narrow, four-story house dating back to the 17th century, and another adjoining it that dates from the 19th century. They've changed hands many times, and several notable residents have lived here, including Pierre-Olivier Chauveau, a Quebec premier in the 19th century; and Richard Renfrew, the founder of the Holt Renfrew luxury department store chain, among others. The hotel underwent major renovations in 2010, with updates and additions as late as our 2017 review. But what stands out here is not the newness of the property, but the attention to preserving original elements. The rustic stone and exposed brick walls are highlights, and look chic paired with an eclectic mix of modern and classic furniture and decor. This small family-run property has limited extra features and only a small lounge, but it's a refreshing change from big hotel chains, with an intimate charm that draws in leisure travelers and tourists, especially couples. 

Auberge Place D'Armes is situated in the heart of bustling Old Quebec on a charming pedestrian street lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants. It's positioned right between Notre Dame Cathedral and Chateau Frontenac, a two-minute walk (or less) to each. Within five minutes guests can walk to the Museum Palace Royale, the Old Quebec Funicular, the Petit Champlain district, and Dufferin Terrace. The Museum of Civilization is about a 10-minute walk, and Quebec Parliament Building, the Quebec Convention Center, the Quebec Citadel, and the Plains of Abraham take roughly 15 minutes on foot. The trendy Saint-Roch neighborhood, filled with boutiques, cafes, and galleries, is about a 20-minute walk, and Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport is about a 25-minute drive, depending on traffic.

Guests looking to get out of the cookie-cutter chain hotel rut will be pleased with the guest rooms at Auberge Place D'Armes. The individually decorated rooms offer charming, themed decor that often features traditional craftsman furnishings, unique accents, and rustic exposed stone or brick walls. Some rooms lean toward shabby chic, with a mix of white-painted and vintage furniture, while others have a cabin feel, with slanted wood ceilings and plaid pillows. A flashier Junior Suite features bright white furnishings, gilded accents, ornate gold frames, and 18th-century furniture. Attic rooms tend to be small, and the slanted ceilings can be an issue for taller guests.

Bathrooms can be quite attractive, and are as individual as the rooms themselves (subway tiling, exposed stone walls, painted basin sinks), though some past guests have said they're on the small side. Some have simple shower stalls, while others have shower/tub combos or walk-in rainfall showers.

All units include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, docking stations, and Nespresso machines. Bathrooms provide hairdryers, toiletries, and wall-mounted soap in the showers. Street-facing rooms have spectacular views of the Chateau Frontenac. A spacious suite, being added during our 2017 review, features a private terrace with a hot tub.

Auberge Place D'Armes has limited extra property features, but what it does have, it does well. Guests rave about the food at Chez Jules (previously La Pain Beni), the on-site restaurant and bar serving traditional French cuisine. The restaurant offers an a la carte breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks. While breakfast doesn't come standard with room rates, hotel guests get a 15 percent discount at the restaurant. Room service is offered during limited hours.

The hotel is situated in a pedestrian zone, so there's no on-site parking (though valet parking is offered for an extra fee during the high season); the hotel also has no elevator. A baggage service is available to help guests carry luggage. Guests can use the public computer in the small lobby lounge, and photocopying is also available. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Pets are welcome in some rooms for an extra fee, and cribs are available for guests traveling with little ones. Guests report receiving little extras at check-in or check-out, like welcome drinks or cookies. The property has no wellness facilities.