Residence of the governor general at the Citadelle: Free tours and educational activities

History happens here

Overlooking the majestic St. Lawrence River and located within the Citadelle of Québec, this historic building has served as the second official residence and workplace of Canada’s governors general since 1872.

Our guides are eager to welcome groups of all ages for tours or educational activities. Join us to discover this unique residence steeped in Canadian history.

All tours and educational activities are free and by reservation only.

Visit our educational activities section for more info and to register.


History Happens Here
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Location and contact information

1 Côte de la Citadelle
Québec, Quebec

Free parking available on site (2 hours maximum)

Telephone: 1-866-936-4422
Email: citadelle@gg.ca
Web: www.gg.ca/citadelle
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GGCitadelle

Guided tours of the residence

Duration: 60 minutes

Accompanied by one of our guides, explore the State rooms, where the governor general fulfils official duties, welcomes dignitaries and honours Canadians. This tour allows visitors to learn more about the governor general’s responsibilities, and to discover the history, architecture and collections of this magnificent residence.

Educational activities for schools

Escape Room – Code Name: Citadelle New!

Duration: 60 minutes
School levels: Secondary I to V (Quebec) or grades 7 to 12 (elsewhere in Canada)

The parliamentary buildings are on fire! The Canadian State is on alert. We need your help to recover encrypted documents hidden in the Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle. These documents are essential to ensuring Canadian sovereignty. Your knowledge of Canadian history, geography and culture has prepared you well for this mission. Are you ready to take on this challenge?

On Your Excellency’s Secret Service

Duration: 60 minutes
School levels: Grade 3 to Secondary II (Quebec) or grades 3 to 9 (elsewhere in Canada)

This activity is based on the famous Clue™ board game and helps students explore the State rooms of the residence in search of clues to solve a mystery. Three educational, interactive and fun missions are available, according to grade level. The suggested activities were designed to complement lessons students learn in class, in accordance with various provincial curricula.

Grades 3 and 4 – New France
Grades 5 and 6 – Responsible government
Grades 7 to 9 / Secondary I and II – Democracy

Heralds and Heroes

Duration: 90 minutes
School levels: Kindergarten to Grade 5

Students are invited to participate in a tournament during which they will acquire the necessary qualities to join the Order of Heralds. Each of the five challenges will help them discover the fascinating world of heraldry—the science of coats of arms. Are you up to the challenge?

Additional information

  • The Residence of the Governor General is located within the Citadelle of Québec.
  • Groups are greeted at the bus drop-off point, near the street light on Côte de la Citadelle.
  • The Citadelle is an active military base and visitors are not allowed to walk freely to the residence. Visitors must be accompanied by a guide at all times.
  • Walking distance to the residence is a few short minutes.
  • There are wheelchairs, washrooms, water fountains, rest areas, a boutique and vending machines on-site or nearby.
  • The schedule of activities may be changed without notice to accommodate official ceremonies.