Explore the Magnificence of Old Quebec City Tourist Attractions

Old Quebec – the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site, is steeped in history. The only walled city is world-renowned for its precious architectural imprints, European charm, and depictions of the stunning French civilisation. The historical places to visit in Quebec City are an amalgamation of the wonders that the British, French, North Americans and First Nations showered on the city. know more about the places to visit in quebec city

In this blog, we will learn about the fascinating places to visit in quebec city

What is the Essence of Old Quebec?

To preserve the architectural heritage of Old Quebec, the Government of Quebec designated it a historic district in 1963Old Quebec was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and the only fully walled city north of Mexico. It is known as the origin of French North America. This fortified city has retained its cultural, historical, and architectural essence for more than 400 years. Whether it is the Plains of Abraham and Parliament Hill or Petit-Champlain or even the streets of Old Port, the city won’t fail to amaze you with its awe-inspiring historical places to visit in Quebec city gems and fortifications.

You shouldn’t miss the historic Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church and the immense Fresque des Québécois that visually tells the story of the old Québec city in the place where the explorer Samuel de Champlain discovered Québec 400 years earlier. Stop at the Fairmont Château Frontenac to see the fairy tale castle overlooking Old Quebec. The unique Old Québec style has made the neighbourhood seem quintessentially European. You can admire the beautiful gates of Saint-Jean and Saint-Louis from above.

Some Outstanding Features of Places to Visit In Quebec City

1. The best time to visit Old Québec is summer (June-September) or winter (December-February) when all the significant events and festivals are on the agenda
2. Quebec is named after the Algonquin First Nations word “kébec”, which means the narrowing of the Saint Lawrence River
3. The historic district of Old Québec comprises two parts – the upper city and the lower town.
4. The cobbled streets and the extraordinary architecture of Nouvelle France form the historical and cultural epicentre of Quebec City.
5. Dating back to 1608, the French-speaking city has a mosaic of living quarters, each worth a visit, but the most appealing is the old town.
6. The two-storey district can be crossed by several staircases or, more simply, by an electrically operated funicular.
7. The St. Charles River flows into the St. Lawrence River, a robust North American trade route that leads to the Atlantic Ocean.
8. Petit Champlain in the lower town, a historic and thriving shopping district, connects to the Porto Vecchio, a photo-worthy port surrounding San Lorenzo.
9. Surrounded by ramparts, Città Alta sits atop Cap Diamant and promises heavenly views of the river and beyond.
10. Quebec City is where the old era meets the contemporary world offering luxurious hotels, famous restaurants, and shops.

Here Are the Must-See Places to Visit In Quebec City

History is everywhere in Old Quebec – in every street, monument, and historic building. The walled city, which is easy to walk, has a unique European style and is exceptionally well preserved after 400 years. You will love the charm of its beautiful neighbourhoods and architecture. These are the Historical places to visit in Quebec City:

• The Founding Nations Heritage

Quebec City is steeped in the culture and heritage of Amerindian and European ancestors. Here, indigenous people are proud of their heritage and witness the history that has shaped their land. Many buildings and vestiges also testify to the heritage and the foundation of New France and its passage under British domination after numerous battles. This heritage is a confluence of both nations and is open as one of the Old Quebec city tourist attractions to the public.

• The National Historic Sites of Canada

Explore the fortifications of Quebec, which extend for nearly 4.6 kilometres around Old Quebec. Stroll through Artillery Park, where period costumed figures will greet you in 17th and 18th-century defensive buildings. Immerse yourself in the history of a place where decisions were made that affected all of North America at Forts Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux, an archaeological crypt discovered under the Dufferin Terrace. And complete your trip by learning all about the history of the Jesuits in Cartier-Brébeuf Park and Jacques Cartier’s first winter in Québec City in 1535.

• The Churches of Quebec

The Old Churches are the castles of Quebec and are architectural marvels. You will be inspired by the crypt of the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church-oldest stone church in North America, and the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Sanctuary, which is over 100 years old!

• Historical museums

Several archaeological digs over the years have unearthed objects bearing witness to the rich history of Quebec. L’Îlot des Palais is a complete exhibition that takes shape in the 18th-century vaults of one of the most important historical archaeological sites in Quebec.

• Old Quebec City Tourist Attractions

Admire the historic homes, mills, and churches along the Route de la Nouvelle-France, and explore the Chemin du Roy in the Portneuf area. Built in 1737, it was the first highway between Quebec and Montreal.

Other Historical Places to Visit in Quebec City

Countless other architectural, religious, and military buildings in the Quebec region are as fascinating as enriching.

• Visit Quebec city’s Historical places, such as Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site, that shaped the history of Quebec City and the lives of the people who built it.
• Enjoy spectacular views and Old Quebec city tourist attractions from the Old Quebec Funicular.
• Get to know the architecture and develop a greater appreciation for the city’s marvellous gardens like Domaine Maizerets and Cartier-Brébeuf Park.

Most Glorious Quebec City Historical Places

Additionally, some of the most exquisite historical places to visit in Quebec City include :

• The Citadel and the Military Tradition

Take a walk through the “Gibraltar of the Americas” at Cape Diamond! The star-shaped Citadel, an essential part of the city’s fortifications, shows the military history of Québec. You must see the Royal 22e Régiment Museum (housed in a gunpowder magazine from 1750 and a military prison from 1842) and military ceremonies.

• Plains of Abraham

Experience the history of Battlefields Park, the scene of battles between French and British troops, and witness the place where Canada was born. The park is one of the most beautiful urban parks in the world, and a cherished reminisce of the site’s legendary past. 

• Monastère des Augustines

Augustinian nuns built the continent’s first hospital in northern Mexico in 1639, which is also well-known for the development of modern medicine. This is where the nuns spent their lives treating people with physical and mental illnesses for nearly 400 years. You will be in awe of the permanent display that traces the social and spiritual work of the Augustinian nuns of Quebec through  40,000 artefacts from 12 Augustinian monastic hospitals.

• Parliament Building

Witness the amazing 26 bronze statues at the Parliament Building that pay homage to the people who shaped Quebec’s political history. You will highly appreciate the impressive building, built between 1786 and 1886. The National Assembly Hall, the residence of Quebec parliamentarians, the Legislative Council Chamber, the Presidents’ Gallery, and the renowned restaurant Le Parlementaire are also worth a visit.

• Château Frontenac

Famous as the world’s most photographed hotel, this majestic site quickly became a popular stopover for travellers passing through Quebec and a favourite spot for extravagant parties and grand celebrations. Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) CEO William Van Horne built the Château Frontenac and other similar hotels to promote train travel as a luxury experience.

• Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site

This archaeological crypt is located under the Dufferin terrace, next to the Château Frontenac. From Samuel de Champlain in 1620 to its destruction by fire in 1834, it was successive governors’ residence and seat of power.

• Île d’Orléans

Witness the beauty of the wonderful island well-known as New France’s birthplace. You will enjoy its stunning and beautifully preserved historic buildings.

• Morrin Centre

The Morrin Centre was an ordinary prison, which later became an English language college and today houses an exquisite Victorian library. You can see actual prison cells and hear astounding prison stories. Be captivated by the haunting stories dating back to the 16th century.

In Conclusion

Enjoy Quebec while there and immerse yourself in the impressive river views. The ramparts surrounding Old Québec run for 4.6km, a testament to the city’s military past. Whimsical terraced houses with tower windows line the cobbled streets, and French influence is everywhere.  Founded in 1608 as a permanent settlement on a relatively narrow stretch of the St. Lawrence River, Québec City is one of the oldest in North America. Filled with old Quebec city tourist attractions and exquisite historical sights, the World Heritage Treasure is a very viable proposition for vacationers and history-lovers.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Canada's most visited historic site?

The Citadel of Quebec is Canada's most visited historic site. It is a 19th-century British fortress and the largest British-built in North America. The Citadel sits atop Cap Diamant and overlooks the city and the San Lorenzo River.

Which area has the most historic sites in Canada?

Quebec City, founded in 1608 as the capital of New France, which retains much of its history, culture, and rich heritage, is known as the area that has the most historical sites in Canada.

Are Pets allowed in Old Quebec city Historical places?

Yes! Provided they are well-behaved pets on a leash. You can also enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through historic Quebec City.

Can I live in a national historic site in Canada?

Quebec City is world-famous for its blend of modernism, history, and culture. The city is considered the safest in Canada for children and has the lowest crime rates in North America. If you intend to live in Quebec, you must apply to the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Diversité et de l'Inclusion du Québec. You must complete your Express Entry profile is the first step to immigrating to Canada permanently as a skilled worker. You can consider the following welcoming neighbourhoods if moving into Quebec: Limoilou Nouveau Saint-Roch Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cap-Rouge Old Town Beauport Montcalm Sillery

Where can I park in Old Quebec city?

You have several options for paid parking and underground parking available in Quebec City. You can install mobile applications to help you make your booking from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Street parking is not recommended as it would cost more and invite more hassle. Most of the parking spots in the city are equipped with a meter or pay station. Your hotels, too provide parking space for your vehicle.