Quebec City will not fail to amaze you with its cobblestone alleys, eye-catching landscapes, rich culture, and historic architecture. I must tell you—this city is filled with endless excitement and adventure that can make anyone fall in love when they first visit! Also, do you know this French-speaking city is the birthplace of poutine and is famous for producing maple syrup?
You can also enjoy festivals, experience warm hospitality, or go on a walking tour. If you are still confused about what you can explore here, don’t worry. I will guide you through how to have a great time with your friends or family while in Quebec.
How about a little info about this place first, huh?
The Old Town of Quebec, the capital of the Canadian province of Quebec, is known not only for its commanding clifftop location overlooking the St. Lawrence Seaway but also for being a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and the only city in North America (aside from Mexico and the Caribbean) with its original city walls. How amazing, right?
Also, in this French-speaking region of Canada, you can witness beautiful landscapes, historic cities, and rich culture. And here is an interesting fact for all history enthusiasts: The Upper Town, also known as Haute-Village, was built for military purposes and housed the city’s defensive Citadel and some of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Château Frontenac and City Fortifications.
And, when you explore the Lower Town, also known as Basse-Ville, you will be mesmerized by its scenic, narrow streets and antique stone structures where the original settlement was built. Palace Royale and the Quartier Petit Champlain are both located here. From the Upper to the Lower Town, a set of steps and several steep streets slope down that you should not forget to enjoy on your foot tour while also enjoying the scenic beauty of the St. Lawrence River that runs through the base.
Things You Can Enjoy While Exploring Quebec City
Discovering the Old Quebec City!!
First, you can take a stroll around old Quebec City. I suggest you don’t miss it. The old parts of Quebec City are undoubtedly the most beautiful portion of the city, and you could easily spend days wandering through its small, cobblestone lanes. Exploring every corner of this place will take you a day. Here, you can witness gorgeous architecture, beautiful cafes, unique pubs, and fascinating boutiques. Go for a food tour if you can! Obviously, that is a must for a foodie like you and me.
The Parliament Building Is Excellent
Do you know that the Louvre, a famous Paris museum, inspired its design? So it would be difficult for you not to get astonished when looking at it. The National Assembly, which includes all 125 of Quebec’s elected members, operates in the Parliament Building and is still in use – and it’s incredible to witness that. Besides admiring the outside, you can explore the interior with a guide to explore its historic rooms. If you are interested, you can even attend one of the National Assembly’s Parliamentary Sessions.
Wandering Around Dufferin Terrace
The upper town’s iconic boardwalk is one of the most prominent places to visit in Quebec City. You can simply flock here to the terrace to take in the views of the Saint Lawrence River. Ah, what can I say? It is marvellous!!
How about knowing a little history of it? Well, the Dufferin Terrace, named after one of Canada’s Governor Generals, Lord Dufferin, was once off-limits to the general public of Quebec City and instead designated for the country’s elite to enjoy. But that changed in 1838 when it was inaugurated in front of a large crowd.
I suggest you visit the Dufferin Terrace during summer and enjoy the performances of singers, street performers, artists, and food vendors. If you visit in winter, you can flock to the terrace to race down the slope.
Exploring La Citadelle de Quebec
Believe me, guys, walking through The Cap Diamant fortress on the city’s outskirts is well worth a few hours!!
This star-shaped citadel, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Site, boasts breathtaking views of the Saint Lawrence River. When visiting this place, you can get to know some interesting facts. The 22nd Canadian Regiment was formed at the start of WWI and has a long and illustrious history, including involvement at the Battle of the Somme and, much later, in the Korean War – its headquarters are here. Is it not fascinating?
From the far end of the walkway in front of the Château Frontenac, a flight of stairs leads to the Citadel and the Plains of Abraham. You can visit the Citadel throughout the year, and you will be lucky if you come during summer, as it provides extended hours at this time!!
Shopping is Great Fun at the Petit-Champlain District!!
You can go next to the Petit Champlain’s lower town section, which has a romantic vibe that would put many European villages to shame. I must tell you that the narrow alleys, unique boutiques, elegant décor, and charming restaurants are so fascinating to explore here!!
This is Quebec City’s most well-known tourist shopping zone, where you’ll find boutique items if you’re looking for them. Local designers’ apparel, Indigenous sculptures and handicrafts, jewelry, Québec terroir, and more are available. This is one of the best avenues in the city for finding souvenirs made in Québec. So don’t miss out on it!
Wandering Through Place Royale
You can call this place a tourist hub in Québec because of its history and the modern-day atmosphere created by the restaurants, patios, and shops that have sprung up around the historical monuments.
Did you know Samuel de Champlain first established a fur trading post in 1608 on the site where Québec would eventually become the capital of French America? It is now known as Place Royale. It is the most significant surviving group of North American 17th—and 18th-century structures, named after Louis XIV, whose bust graces it.
What’s more, can you discover here? You will find the lovely stone church of Notre Dame des Victoires and the Maison Chevalier on the cobbled square. And the tiny square, adjacent to Place Royale, faces out over the river and is surrounded by solid walls and fortifications, robust walls, and palisades. I have to say it is simply amazing to explore these places when you wander through Palace Royale.
You should not miss out on the outdoor dining available only in the summer. Although, in winter, snow turns the historic alleys and stone buildings into a postcard-perfect image. Undoubtedly, this is a lovely spot to visit during the day or evening and any time of year.
Do not forget to spend some time at the Musée National des Beaux; otherwise, you will regret it later.
The Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec studies Quebec art from the seventeenth to the twenty-first century. It has four pavilions to explore and is located among the beautiful Plains of Abraham. If you are into art, the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec is your place! It houses about 38,000 works of art from across the province spanning four centuries.
Following the Quebec City Walls—It’s Undoubtedly Amazing
You might ask, what’s in the walls? You’d be forgiven for not realizing that Quebec City is a walled city unless you visit downtown. Do you know this fact? Is it the only walled city in Canada or the United States that exists? The fortifications surrounding Vieux-Québec are 4.6 kilometers long and feature several big gates. In some areas, you may even climb to the top of the wall, which gives you a great perspective of the city in both directions as you walk about.
Visiting Musée de la Civilisation
The Musée de la Civilisation is a three-part institution in Québec City where you can learn about human history and the creation of French America. The main museum is located in Basse-Ville near the Old Port. The center museum, designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie, is a work that every architect visits once to get some inspiration. I highly suggest you explore the permanent collection, including worldwide artifacts and explorations of the Québec experience.
As its name implies, the museum is dedicated to all aspects of French history in North America. The Musée de la Civilisation exhibits are also on display at the Place Royale, where Samuel de Champlain is buried.
Now, What About Food?
Hey! Relax, I’ll tell you all. Many beautiful restaurants in Quebec City specialize in various types of Quebec cuisine. And all of the dishes are simply mouthwatering! Chez Muffy in Auberge Saint-Antoine is one of my particular favourites. The restaurant, housed within the thick stone walls of a 19th-century warehouse, serves a modern take on traditional French cuisine.
You can taste the cake drizzled in maple syrup at Bistro Sous-le-Fort, a lovely café at 48 Sous-le-Fort. You can also take a food tour to experience a variety of restaurants and shops while being guided by an expert. This 2.5-hour walking tour will take you to five different locales to savour the flavours of Quebec. Alternatively, you can mix your samples with some wine and some of the city’s history.
So, How Many Days Should You Spend in Quebec?
Well, if you have a very tight schedule, you can stay for two days in Quebec, which is not enough to visit all the historic places, explore the European vibes or go for a food tour. So, three or four days is the perfect time to spend in Quebec City and get the most out of your trip. The old city is modest, and the key sights may be seen in a few days. Take it easy on yourself. Dinners should be leisurely. Make a day trip out of it.
My Opinion for Quebec City
I would say Quebec City is an excellent choice for a trip if you’re searching for a taste of old Europe without having to cross the Atlantic (or fight the summer tourist crowd!) Quebec City has a lot to offer visitors at any time of year. I hope these Québec City bucket list ideas help you plan your vacation. If you found this helpful information, share it with your friends!
Last Updated on April 22, 2024 by Pragya Chakrapani
