QUEBEC CITY
Quebec City is the birthplace of French culture in North America. Perched on the cliffs of Cap Diamant and overlooking the St. Lawrence River, Quebec is proud to be a living museum and the only fortified city in North America.
Quebec City can be divided into 3 districts: Upper Town, Lower Town and Grande-Allée–Parliament Hill.
Quebec City is small enough that the best way to explore it is on foot.
LOWER TOWN
As its name implies, Lower Town (Basse-Ville) is located at the foot of Cap Diamant, along the St. Lawrence River.
Rue du Petit-Champlain
In summer and winter alike, this small cobbled street is a hive of activity, with its many cafes, restaurants, boutiques and art galleries.
Place Royale
A visit to Place Royale is like a step back in time to the early days of New France. It was here that Samuel de Champlain founded the first settlement in 1608. It later became a market square.
Take the time to admire the interior and exterior of historic Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church , the oldest stone church in North America.
Musée de la civilisation
The most popular museum in Quebec City invites visitors to reflect on their values and traditions in relation to those of other cultures and civilizations. Learn all about Quebec with the following 2 permanent exhibitions:
1. People of Quebec... Then and Now: Revisit the major events that shaped Quebec's history, from the early days of the settlers to the present day.
2. This is our Story: Discover the history and culture of Quebec's Aboriginal cultures and how they view the world.
Québec City - Lévis Ferry
The ferry between Quebec City and Lévis provides the opportunity to take some amazing photos of the city! The ferry terminal is near Petit-Champlain, in the heart of Old Quebec. The ride lasts about 12 minutes and costs a few dollars.
The ferry runs daily all year long, with departures every hour during the day.
UPPER TOWN
Château Frontenac
Attention all looking to score a perfect picture on their Canadian road trip, the iconic Château Frontenac is Quebec City's most famous landmark and the most photographed hotel in the world. It was named after Louis de Buade, Count of Frontenac, who was governor of the colony of New France from 1672 to 1682 and 1689 to 1698.
Built in 1893 by the railway to ensure luxurious accommodations for train passengers, Château Frontenac has been named a National Historic Site of Canada. Step inside to admire its entry hall, the Verchères room, the Champlain dining room and the reception area. A jewel of Canadian architecture!
The Quebec Citadel and Observatoire de la Capitale offer splendid views of Château Frontenac.
Rue du Trésor
You won't want to miss taking a stroll down this colourful pedestrian alley where local artists display their artwork. Admire the works of Quebec artists, representing typical scenes of Quebec City. And why not take one home with you?
Notre-Dame-de-Québec Cathedral-Basilica
Originally constructed in 1650, the cathedral has been rebuilt twice, after being destroyed by British troops in 1759 and gutted by fire in 1922. Named a National Historic Site of Canada in 1966, it represents more than 300 years of Quebec architecture.
Rue Saint-Jean
The lively and popular Rue Saint-Jean is one of the oldest streets in the city.
Bustling with boutiques and restaurants, this is Old Quebec's ultimate shopping destination.
Terrasse Dufferin
Dufferin Terrace is a 430-metre long clifftop boardwalk just below Château Frontenac, with spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River, Lower Town and the surrounding area.
The Terrace has public benches, street performers, vendors and even ice slides in winter.
Citadelle
The Citadelle is a fortress built between 1820 and 1832. Designed in a star shape characteristic of the time, it was never used to defend the city. Today, Quebec City is the sole surviving example of a fortified city in North America.
The Citadelle is home to the Royal 22nd Regiment Museum, which displays a collection of historical military artifacts from the 17th century to the present. Don't miss the view of Quebec City from the Citadelle.
Promenade des Gouverneurs
An extension of Dufferin Terrace, Promenade des Gouverneurs runs along the Quebec Citadelle to the Plains of Abraham (Battlefields Park). This multi-level walkway offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
Artillery Park
Artillery Park is a group of historic buildings that bear witness to more than 250 years of French, British and Canadian military history. Visit the site's welcome and interpretation centre where you will discover military artifacts, the remains of a powder magazine with its protective wall, and a magnificent scale model of Quebec City built in the early 19th century.
In summer the site offers many activities for visitors including free musket-shooting demonstrations.
GRANDE ALLÉE + PARLIAMENT HILL
Quebec Parliament Building
Built between 1877 and 1886, the Parliament Building is home to the Quebec National Assembly, the organism that has held the legislative power of the province since 1867.
Some rooms are open to visitors, including the entry hall, the Presidents' Gallery, the National Assembly Chamber, the Flag Room and the Legislative Council Chamber. A piece of photo ID is required. Free guided tours are offered in summer.
Parc des Champs-de-Bataille
Created in 1908 for the 300th anniversary of Quebec City, this vast park commemorates the bloody clashes between the French and English during the British conquest from 1759 to 1760. A green oasis of plains, wooded areas and English-style gardens, Battlefields Park is to Quebec City what Central Park is to New York. With its extensive pathways and views of the St. Lawrence River, the park is an ideal setting for a stroll or a family picnic. Also known as the Plains of Abraham.
Observatoire de la Capitale (Marie-Guyart Building)
Admire Quebec City from its highest point, 221 metres up on the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building. Observatoire de la Capitale offers a 360° view of Quebec City and the surrounding area.
GUIDED TOURS
|
NEARBY
Montmorency Falls
Located between the river and the cliffs, Montmorency Falls Park is just a few minutes from Quebec City and is accessible all year round.
Its main attraction, the spectacular Montmorency Falls, are 83 metres tall. You can discover the falls on foot or take the cable car to the top. The entire cove is illuminated after dark.
Île d'Orléans
Île d'Orléans is located in the St. Lawrence River just east of Quebec City. A beautiful island that will capture your heart, it is home to some 600 historic buildings and stone houses dating back to the French Regime.
Be sure to visit Saint-Pierre Church: built in 1717, it is the oldest church on the island. The island is known for its many local delicacies and award-winning products.
Traditional Huron site
Located on the Huron-Wendat reservation, the Huron Traditional Site is a unique opportunity to discover the history, culture, cuisine, dances, ancestral traditions and lifestyle of the Huron people. The Huron-Wendat are a First Nation. Over the years, they have survived several epidemics and other tragedies. You can tour the recreated village and listen to the guide's stories and explanations. The craft shop is also worth a visit. The site has a restaurant.
Festivals calendar
Quebec City Summer Festival
Dates: first half of July
Created in 1968, the Festival d'Éte has become a major cultural event that attracts 1.5 million festivalgoers every year. Imagine an entire city transformed into a giant stage for eleven days, from noon until midnight... Artists from all over the world perform at a dozen venues, all within easy walking distance. With more than 1000 artists and 300 shows, this is one of Canada's biggest music festivals!
Loto-Quebec International Fireworks Competition
Dates: August
The Grands Feux Loto-Québec is a pyromusical extravaganza that attracts thousands of locals and visitors alike. Every summer, spectators gather on the banks of the St. Lawrence River to enjoy the colourful creations of some of the world's best pyrotechnical experts. Note: Wednesdays and Saturdays only! Arrive early at the Old Port to get a good spot.
Nouvelle-France Festival
Dates: early August
It was in Quebec City in 1608 that the whole adventure of New France began. And every summer for the past 20 years, the Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France SAQ has been celebrating the arrival of the first Europeans on American soil. The festivities include dance, parades, spectacular shows, and street entertainment - a busy program that will take you on a unique journey back to the 17th and 18th centuries.