Are you planning a trip to Canada but wondering about the best places to visit? If yes, then you don’t need to wonder anymore as we are here with a recommendation of a city in Canada that’s worth seeing. The Old Quebec City in Canada is a palace that will leave you awestruck! It delivers an old European feel with magnificent attractions, top-notch restaurants and great weather. Not only this, but the city’s friendly vibe, history, and countless attractions make it a matchless travel destination every year. So, let’s dive in and gain a better understanding of Old Quebec City Canada along with its history, things to do, and much more!
What Does the History of Old Quebec City in Canada Hold?
Established in the early 17th century by the French explorer Champlain, Quebec City in Canada holds a distinct yet unique old-world character and charm. In 1985, the city was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its fortification walls, dramatic cliff-top location overlooking the St.Lawrence River, and much more, Quebec City, Canada is unlike any other North American city. You will be surprised to know that Quebec City in Canada was besieged five times in its entire history and was finally conquered by the British in 1759. And today, it is the heart of French culture.
Old Quebec’s historic district is an urbanised area of nearly 135 hectares and comprises two parts, i.e., the Haute Ville or Upper Town, and the Basse Ville or Lower Town. The former is seated atop Cap Diamant and protected by a citadel, ramparts, and some other defensive structures. On the other hand, the Lower Town grew up all around the Place Royale and the harbour.
The city of Quebec generally goes by the name of Latin Quarters and is referred to as the Old City in the tourism genre. With an extended history of 400 years, the heritage and charm of the city are incomparable. You can even discover Old Quebec’s long history at its museums, namely, Musee du Fort, Musee des Ursulines and Musee de la Civilisation.
What is Old Quebec City in Canada Famous For?
Quebec in Canada is a multicultural and lively province that is generally referred to as the ‘Europe of North America’. The city is quite famous for its rich settlement history, powerful tourism industry, predominantly French-speaking population, and much more. One thing that sets Quebec apart from all its Canadian neighbours is the city’s European feel and preservation of French culture.
The listicle below involves the top things that make Quebec one of the most unique destinations in North America:
- Old Quebec City
- French language
- Maple syrup
- Park at Montmorency Falls
- Celine Dion
- Mont Tremblant
- Poutine
Top Quebec City Attractions & Things to do
With our suggestion, wearing your sneakers from here will be a great idea so that walking around all these locations doesn’t tire you. Stroll through the 400-year-old history of this Old Quebec City and cover the lengths and breadth of Canada.
-
La Citadelle de Quebec
La Citadelle de Quebec is a historic military fortress in old Quebec City, Canada. It was built by the British in the early 19th century to defend against potential attacks from the United States. The fortress is now home to the Royal 22nd Regiment and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the museum, attend the changing guard ceremony, and enjoy stunning views of the city and the St. Lawrence River from the ramparts. The Citadelle is also designated as a National Historic Site of Canada, highlighting its significance to its history and culture.
-
Plains of Abraham (Champs de Bataille)
If you are searching for a calm and green arena to unwind, this place is just outside the city, west of the Citadel, known as the Plains of Abraham or Champs de Bataille. The place is not just a place for greenery but also of historical significance. The park is also home to the remains of Martello Towers. The park is a Quebec city attraction for the Joan of Arc Garden, built in the 1930s and displays an amazing diversity of flowers from spring to fall. It is an excellent place for families to enjoy the day sun and have a picnic.
-
North America’s Oldest Street
Petit-Champlain Street is also known as the oldest street in North America, in the old city of Quebec, Canada. One of the most romantic places which flourished with historical edifices that date back to the 17th century, and the cobblestone streets for shopping are a great attraction in Quebec.
-
Quartier Petit Champlain
Known as the capital of New France, Quartier Petit Champlain is arguably the most beautiful location that is a must-visit from the Quebec city attraction. The whole street will give you European vibes; the street house many restaurants, bakeries, cafes, pubs and shops. This place will take you around not only Quebec but many different provinces of Europe. This is “the” place for a photographer because of the famous Rue du Cul de Sac, which offers a lane filled with colourful umbrellas.
-
Parliament Building (Hotel du Parlement) and Parliament Hill
The Hotel du Parlement is the seat of Quebec’s provincial government. This is also the second empire structure that was completed in 1886. Some tours can be a part of your visit to Hotel du Parlement. It is a place of the legislature and a great symbol of Quebec’s history. The tours are available in both English and French to suit all audiences. It facilitates a National Assembly Chamber, Legislative Council Chamber and a President’s Gallery.
The whole facade is embellished with 26 statues, Fontaine de Tourny( Tourney Fountain) and a souvenir store which shouldn’t be avoided when visiting this whimsical location.
-
Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame de Quebec
Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame-de-Quebec was designed by the architect Baillairage and completed in 1844. The place is a Quebec city attraction with beautiful corners, arcs and alters. The Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame-de-Quebec is filled with an episcopal canopy and stained glass windows and doors.
-
Terrasse Dufferin
If you wish to take a turn at a hotspot with an eye-catching view, then Terrasse Dudderin tops the list of attractions and things to do in Quebec City. This is the prime location to have a view of the fireworks during Les Grands Feux Loto-Quebec. Summers in this spot invites a hurricane of entertainers vamping thei rgigs. During winters you will come across thrill-seekers of different age groups hurtling down a century-old wooden toboggan run. Apart from this, you can even climb a few steps to the Promenade des Gouverneurs for an awe-inspiring panorama of the city, the river, and the surrounding mountains.
Things to do:
-
- Roll down the Toboggan slides
- Enjoy a mouth-watering ice-cream cone while having a look at the beautiful view.
- Under the Dufferin Terrace, visit the remains of Forts-et-Chateaux-Saint-Louis.
-
Chateau Frontenac
Do you want to see the world’s highly photographed hotel in person? If yes, then you must definitely visit Chateau Frontenac. Rising from a clifftop, the Chateau Frontenac has always been the jewel of Old Quebec City in Canada for nearly 125 years now. As it is the most photographed hotel, you should not miss an opportunity to get your picture clicked in front of it. You can also step inside and have a better look at the astonishing architectural style of the Chateau Frontenac.
Things to do:
-
- Enjoy a comfortable stay in one of the rooms at Chateau Frontenac
- Eat delicious food in one of the Chateau Frontenac’s restaurants
- Take a guided tour of the entire Chateau Frontenac hotel
-
Place Royale
Explore the Place Royale, which is a spot where Old Quebec City Canada was founded. Place Royale is one of the famous Quebec City attractions in the Lower Town. This is where Samuel de Champlain built the first permanent settlement in North America in 1608. This place is not just the symbolic heart of the city, but the entire province. It is a modest cobblestoned square lined with some famous restaurants and shops. Moreover, there’s a church that sits in the middle of the square and that church has been rebuilt multiple times over the past three centuries. To the north of the square, the Musee de la Place Royale covers the prolonged history of the square and its inhabitants, starting with Champlain.
Things to do:
-
- Visit Notre-Dame des Victoires Church
- Capture pictures of the historic buildings
- See the outline of Champlain’s second home, which is on the ground near the church
- Pull up a chair for a fine dining experience at Maison Smith Cafe
-
Montmorency Falls
Thirty meters higher than Niagra Falls, Montmorency Falls will enchant you with its panoramic views no matter what time of the year. Visiting this famous location in Old Quebec City Canada is a mesmerising experience.
One can spend hours gazing at the waterfall or hiking through the trails. It’s an idyllic picnic spot for families, where you can take part in fun activities like hiking, zip-lining across the falls, rock-climbing, and riding the lengths of the falls in a cable car ride to the top of the mountains. Montmorency Falls, which receives an average of 900K+ visitors annually, is a must-visit Quebec tourist attraction on your next trip.
Things to do when visiting Montmorency Falls:
- Cable Car
Experience the panoramic view of Île d’Orléans in old Quebec city, Canada.
- Ziplining
Experience the thrill of getting extremely close to one of the largest waterfalls in the world. Let the adrenaline rush through your veins and zipline through this natural marvel.
- Suspension Bridge
A path runs from the cliff of Montmorency from the top of the falls, connecting to the suspension bridge. On the top of the bridge, you can experience the power of the water flow that rushes below your feet.
- Via Ferrata
Traverse the Montmorency falls Via Ferrata; this is a safe and extraordinary chance that allows you to get much closer to the falls.
- The Manoir Restaurant and Terrace
Enjoy breathtaking views of Montmorency falls from the terrace of the Manoir restaurant. This place is one of the things to do in Quebec city. The menu features a great selection of culinary delights especially curated for the guests.
Taking Everything Into Account
With so many things to do in Quebec City and its long history, Old Quebec City, Canada, must surely be at the top of your travel list. The city is magnificently rich, but it also maintains its modernity. While you enjoy the beauty and history of the city, the local attractions keep you entertained with numerous events and festivals, which are also free of cost.
You May Also Read
| Best Albertan Tourist Attractions | Tourist Attractions & Activities in Vancouver |
| Secret Places to Visit in Ontario | Best Places to Visit in Canada |
| 16 Things to Do in Ottawa | Cost of Living in Canada |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Quebec City Canada is best known for its French Canadian culture, a UNESCO World Heritage site, unique geography, winter wonderland, etc.
French is the official language of 78% of Quebec’s population. Also, English is another language that has a significant number of speakers in the city. Last but not least, Arabic has the third-highest number of native speakers in Quebec City Canada.
Some of the top reasons to visit Quebec City include getting a sneak peek inside Le Chateau de Frontenac, visiting the Maison de la literature; for the authentic beauty of the surrounding landscape; visiting Montmorency falls; enjoying top-notch museums; etc.
Winter is the best time of year to visit Quebec City Canada as the city is at its most magical under a blanket of snow. And, if you wish to avoid the tourist season, then you can plan a visit from April to June, instead of July, August, and September.
As per weather records, the coldest month in Quebec City is January and on the coldest days of the year, the temperature can drop to -30°C or below. What is Quebec City best known for?
What language is spoken in Quebec City?
What are the reasons to visit Quebec city?
What is the best time of year to visit Québec City?
What is the coldest month and temperature in Quebec?
