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.

Quebec 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.

The ferry runs daily all year long, with departures every 30 minutes during the day.

UPPER TOWN

Château Frontenac

The iconic Château Frontenac is Quebec City's 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.

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.

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.

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 Citadel.

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.

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. With its extensive pathways, English-style gardens and sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, it is an ideal setting for a stroll. Battlefields Park is to Quebec City what Central Park is to New York. Also known as the Plains of Abraham.

Observatoire de la Capitale (Édifice Marie-Guyart) 

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.

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.

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.