Residence

COVID-19: The grounds of Rideau Hall are closed, public tours and events at both Rideau Hall and the Citadelle are cancelled or postponed until further notice. Find out more information here.

For nearly 250 years, the City of Québec was the political capital and place of residence of the colony’s governors. After Confederation in 1867, Rideau Hall in Ottawa became the new official residence of the governor general of Canada

Lord Dufferin was the first governor general to live in the Citadelle residence in 1872. In so doing, he re-established the tradition of a residence for the governor general in Québec, which dated back to the beginning of New France.

The Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle of Québec is housed in a building built in 1831 in the neoclassical style.

Following a fire, new State rooms were opened in 1984. The result is a perfect blend of military and modern architectural styles.

Visit the State Rooms

Accompanied by one of our guides, explore the State rooms, where the governor general 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.

The 60-minute tour is free of charge.

Depending on when you are planning to visit, you might require a reservation.

Tour Schedule (individual visitors)*

Please note that the tour schedule may vary to accommodate official events. During the periods when a reservation is required, tours are offered depending on the availability.

October 28 to December 20, 2019
Weekdays (reservation required) - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Weekends (without reservation) – 11:15 a.m. in English / 2:15 p.m. in French

January 6 to May 15, 2020
Weekdays (reservation required) - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Weekends (without reservation) – 11:15 a.m. in English / 2:15 p.m. in French

May 16 to June 23, 2020
Weekdays (reservation required) - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Weekends (without reservation) - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

June 24 to August 30, 2020
Daily (without reservation) - 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

August 31 to November 1, 2020
Weekdays (reservation required) - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Weekends (without reservation) - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Schedule for Groups (10 or more)*

The residence is open to groups all year long, every day, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reservations are necessary and must be made at least 48 hours in advance.

*Tours are not offered over the Easter long weekend, on Remembrance Day and throughout the holiday season.

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