Often overshadowed by big sister Montreal, Quebec City has taken advantage of its charm to attract tourists from all over the world.
The jewel in the crown of French Canada, Quebec City is one of the oldest and most magnificent colonies in North America. Its picturesque old town is a veritable living museum: narrow cobbled streets, mansard houses from the 17th and 18th centuries.
The place has also been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I suggest you visit the unmissable sites and activities of this superb city of Quebec and its surroundings. The following itinerary will allow you to visit these places in two or three days (the time I spent there):
1. Old Quebec
Come blend in with the mass of tourists who have come like you to see and feel the unmissable atmosphere of Quebec City. Its old town is full of charm and memories of yesteryear. Lose yourself in the alleys that rise and wind. At the top of the ramparts, the panorama offers a privileged view of the city.
2. Petit Champlain district
Stroll through this neighborhood to relive the history of Canada and discover the customs of the inhabitants of New France. The place is accessible via a funicular that will allow you to contemplate the St. Lawrence River and the lower town. Very touristy, the area offers a multitude of good bars and restaurants.
3. BASSE VILLE / Lower Town
The lower town is rich in history and you can easily access it by the funicular or by the Casse-Cou staircase! A pretty district to discover where it is good to walk and stroll around the shops and restaurants.
4. La haute ville / Upper Town
Whether you go from the upper town to the lower town, the city has managed to preserve its charm. The old stones as well as the architecture so characteristic of the region attract the eye and transport us to another time.
5. The Place Royale
Place Royale is a magnificent place that is as pleasant in winter as it is in summer. You will discover the cradle of New France thanks to a wonderfully preserved heritage. It is easy to stroll around the square and enjoy the shops, restaurants, art galleries, artisans of all kinds and museums.
6. Our Lady of Quebec
The basilica is located in the historic district of Old Quebec in Quebec, opposite the Quebec City Hall. It was classified as a historical monument in 1961. It is also the oldest parish church in North America! It was elevated to the rank of minor basilica by Pope Pius IX in 1874.
7. The Promenade Samuel-De Champlain
This promenade is located along the river and near the Quebec and Pierre Laporte bridges. It is a pretty park laid out over 2.5 kilometers which offers walkers, cyclists, roller skaters and motorists new perspectives on the banks of the St. Lawrence River.
8. Parc de la Chute-Montmorency
Between river and cliffs, it is one of the most spectacular sites in Quebec. With its 83 meters in height, the imposing Montmorency Falls dominates the landscape. It can be reached on foot, by cable car or from the Manoir Montmorency. 20 minutes drive from Quebec City (Plan a rental car or an excursion).
9. The Citadel of Quebec
The citadel is an amazing star-shaped fortress with impressively high walls. Surrounded by a park, the site offers guided tours and a small museum. Do not miss the changing of the guard, a must!
10. Battlefields Park
This park was created to celebrate the tercentenary of Quebec in 1908. Very lively, it offers many activities such as outdoor concerts or the practice of many sports during the year.
11. Lose it
Located 15 kilometers from Quebec City, dive into the heart of Aboriginal culture with the Huron-Wendat Native Reserve. Discover the more colorful costumes, customs, legends, way of life, food and other customs. You can also stay in the hotel-museum and immerse yourself in Native American culture.
12. Funicular
A good original means of transport to avoid the Frontenac stairs which are very steep. Built in 1879, this funicular connects the Petit Champlain district in Lower Town to the Dufferin Terrace at the top of Cap Diamant where you will enjoy a panoramic view of the St. Lawrence River and Lower Town.
13. Quebec City Remparts Hockey
How not to go to Canada without having seen a Hockey game there? The number one sport in the country, the Quebec Remparts team plays every game on the Colisée Pepsi rink in front of more than 15,000 spectators. Atmosphere guaranteed!
14. St. Louis Gate
The Porte St-Louis is one of the many gateways to access the interior of the fortifications of Old Quebec. At the time, these gates were built to block access to the city from all sides. Today, they have been adapted to facilitate access for cars.
15. Le Mega Parc
It is the largest indoor amusement park in Quebec. come with family or friends to enjoy around twenty rides, around sixty arcades and a mini-golf course. A beautiful indoor ice rink for free skating and for occasional hockey games is available to you.
