Quebec city is one of the most notable cities in the great state of Quebec, Canada. Sharing a name with the State doesn't take away from this city as it stands alone as a tourist attraction. There are many things to do, places to see and sites to behold, making this city a must-visit if you're ever in Quebec. As one of the oldest cities in Canada, a visit to Quebec city is worth the trip.
If you want to spend time in Canada submerged in history and culture, you must definitely visit Quebec City. It is the capital of Quebec, the largest province of Canada. Quebec City is the only walled city in America north of Mexico. It is also the place where the majority of the French population reside in Canada, giving the city a European air.
The best part about the city is that it is small and can be easily seen by walking (in fact this is what is recommended). You would get to admire and explore the historical sites. It includes Petit-Champlain District, the Plains of Abraham, Palace Royale, the Parliament Building.
Citadelle of Quebec, Plains of Abraham, Montmorency Falls, are a few of the places that would make your tour more interesting. In regard to activities and entertainment, Quebec City offers interesting festivals and musicals during the summer. While the Winter Carnival of the city is one of the most colorful and exciting winter festivals!
Poutine is not just a meal, it's Quebec in a bowl. Hearty, hot blooded, beefy, flexible and gooey in everywhere that matters. But what makes Poutine legendary of course is because of the key foundation, the FRENCH fries. They're huge, tasty and begging for vinegar, salt, ketchup and/or mayo or heck, any thing you want to serve this with.
STEAMED hot dogs is actually part of Quebec culture and lovingly called, steamé when ordered in a hot dog chain like Lafleur's, La Belle Province and Valentine's. Quebec also has a large provincial park system, as do New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
If you're looking for a place to break up the winter season (or a better-than-the-beach spring break destination), embrace the cold weather and head over to Québec, Canada's easternmost province. The stunning Eastern Townships offer an ideal escape from everyday life with luxurious spa visits while the incredible beauty of Quebec City is within easy reach – including its renowned ice hotel.
It’s also not hard to satisfy cravings here with Montréal having one of the world's best foodie scenes. Whether you're vegan or have resolutions about healthy eating, there’s no need to go without indulgence over hearty bowls of poutine as part of your new year reset tour around breathtaking Canada.
Here are the best places to visit in Quebec City:
1. Old Quebec
Arguably the most important thing to do in Quebec City is to visit Old Quebec. A UNESCO heritage site, the fortified city walls surrounding old Quebec are the only surviving city walls to the north of Mexico. Old Quebec has much to offer beyond its ancient walls and over 400 years of history. The city also has modern attractions that include world-class restaurants.
Its beautiful sights and cultural heritage make it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. When in Quebec City, you must definitely visit the Old Town which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Parc de la Chute-Montmorency
Few places are as beautiful or iconic as the Parc de la Chute-Montmorency. It is a sight to behold, with waterfalls higher than the legendary Niagara falls. If you're scared of heights and don't mind a cable car ride, you can still get a decent view of the waterfalls. Tours are offered in English and French daily, giving you enough time to see all this landmark has to offer.
3. Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
There are many historical sites in a city with as much history as Quebec City, with the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral being notable. Stepping into this cathedral is like walking through time and into the 17th century. While there have been a lot of renovations over the years, this cathedral still retains its original aura.
4. Château Frontenac
See the Chateau-Frontenac at 1, rue des Carrières. In Quebec is the Château Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world. It was built in 1893 by the Canadian Pacific Railway as part of its luxury chain. Chateau Frontenac is also a place you must visit. It is a luxurious castle-turned-hotel and also a landmark of the city. Walk through the lobby.
The ice palace is only featured in the winter, but it is worth the wait. The only hotel on the continent made entirely is surely a spectacle to behold, if you don't mind the cold. The palace is only erected in the winter, so there isn't a remnant to visit in the summer. You can plan your trip accordingly if the ice palace appeals to you.
5. Rue Saint-Jean
It's hardly a trip abroad if you don't go shopping and see what the local stores have to offer. Seeing as Quebec city is cold, you'll want to get some things to keep you warm. You can get some gym equipment like kettlebells and dumbbells to keep you both warm and in shape. You will surely find some souvenirs to create lasting memories from your visit.
6. Dufferin Terrace
Adjacent is Dufferin Terrace along the Cap-Diamant promontory overlooking the St. Lawrence. The Dufferin Terrace offers great views of the St. Lawrence River and Château Frontenac. A Stroll along the iconic terrace is also accompanied by live entertainment exclusively in the summer. The winter isn't without entertainment, featuring a toboggan run. The current terrace is an expansion of the original, expanded to match both the demand and feel.
This was the site of the governor’s palace of New France. It is one of the most impressive views in Canada.
Summer in Canada is the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy the most of what nature has to offer. Wildlife is at its peak with so many species to observe and admire in their natural habitats. Surrounded by lush green leaves and bright flowers, birds and other animals fit perfectly in their outdoor homes while we sit back and appreciate the beauty of this planet.
7. Place Royale
The palace royale is arguably the most important location in Quebec; it is the original location where the city was founded. Many other sites have come and gone, all thanks to this location. The architecture is unique, drawing inspiration from the British and French settlers.
8. The Plains Of Abraham
If you're a historical buff or love visiting historical places, it would be criminal to leave without visiting this site. The battle between the British and French soldiers occurred here, which decided Canada's fate. The French notably lost that battle, but this site is now a great tourist attraction in Quebec.
See the Plains of Abraham, along Boul. It is adjacent to the Citadelle, where the decisive battle took place in 1759 which would end the days of New France and usher in the era of Quebec as a British colony. A victory wrapped in tragedy, as both Generals Wolfe and Montcalm died of battle injuries.
9. La Citadelle
The British have a strong hand in Canada's history, as is obvious in this tourist attraction. Any Canadian military history fan will want to visit this site. Equipped with artefacts and having existed for nearly 200 years, this fortress still houses a faction of the Canadian armed forces. See the Citadelle at 1, Côte de la Citadelle. A fortress built by the British in the early 18th century, in fear of an American invasion.
10. Museum of Civilization
See the Quebec Museum of Civilization at 85, rue Dalhousie. It won't truly be a visit to a historic city without a trip to a museum. With exhibits suitable for all ages on display, you can make it a family trip. Artefacts and exhibits detailing Canada's history are on display for your perusal.
11. Pôle culturel du Monastère des Ursulines
See the Ursuline Sisters’ Convent, a national historic site with parts going back to 1636 at 12 rue Donnacona. Certainly among the oldest buildings in Canada or the U.S. This was the home of Marie de l’Incarnation, formerly known as Marie Guyart of Tours, France, who chronicled the early days of New France and promoted education for both the French and native girls of the colony.
12. Notre-Dame-des-Victoires
Take the funicular or walk down the steps to the Lower town and see the quaint shops and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church at 32, rue Sous le Fort, built between 1672 and 1728. It was a sailor’s church and has ship models hanging inside.
13. Parliament Building
See and take a tour of the Quebec National Assembly along Grande Allee East. The tours are free, and are offered in English and French, check ahead to reserve. It is the most magnificent provincial legislature in Canada, after British Columbia, and the most historic. The tour will also give you an interesting glimpse of the fractious history of the province and its language tensions going back well over 200 years.
Conclusion
Quebec City is one of Canada's most distinguished cities with a rich history. It's a city where you can never be bored or run out of interest. We have put together a list of the top 10 things to do when in Quebec city.