Visit Quebec: what are the best things to do and to see in the most European capitals of North America?
Capital of the province of the same name, Quebec is a fortified city whose old town is classified as a historical heritage by UNESCO. Young and dynamic, the city is full of universities and offers many cultural and artistic events, which make it a major cultural center of the city Canada . You will undoubtedly fall under the charm of this authentic city, which possesses a true hiding place which is its own, with its stone houses, ramparts and canons and its animated alleys. Dive into the heart of French-speaking Canada! Are you wondering what to do in Quebec? This is it!
1. Old Quebec
Photo credit: Flickr – Tony Webster
Raised as a UNESCO World Heritage Jewel, Old Quebec is the historic heart of the city. You will discover the two main defensive works of the city: the Fortifications-de-Québec and the Citadelle. Opt for a guided walk or carriage, to discover the unique atmosphere of this neighborhood, you will not be disappointed!
2. The Governors' Walk and the Dufferin Terrace
Photo credit: Flickr – saebaryo
If you are going to visit Quebec, you must go through the Governors' promenade, inaugurated in 1960 and built on the Cap Diamant rock! It joins, in about fifteen minutes and a few hundred steps later, the citadel. Throughout the course, you will discover breathtaking views! Once at the top, you will arrive at the Plains of Abraham Park, a true green lung of the city of Quebec. Just at the foot of Frontenac Castle is the promenade of the Dufferin Terrace. On this wooden walk you will cross various street artists while contemplating the St.Lawrence River below.
3. Notre-Dame-de-Québec Cathedral Basilica
Photo credit: Flickr – Viv Lynch
Located in front of the Hôtel de Ville, in the historic quarter of Old Quebec, Notre-Dame-de-Québec Cathedral Basilica is a must if you go to Quebec City. The oldest elements of this building dates back to 1647, and its incredible architecture classified it "National Historic Monument of Canada". You will be totally subjugated by its impressive exterior façade and the beauty of its interior. You can also see the crypt where the bishops of the diocese and the 4 governors of New France are based.
4. The Museum of Civilization
What are you asking about Quebec? We advise you without hesitation the museum of civilization. You will discover the whole history of Quebec, through original and exciting exhibitions, but also interactive and playful, that will delight little and great! Other museums are also to be seen, such as the Musée national des Beaux-arts du Québec, the Morrin centre, the headquarters of the first Quebec prison or the Musée des Ursulines and the Musée du Fort. The Musée de l’Amérique francophone, recounts the history of Francophone culture in North America.
5. Fairmont Frontenac Castle
Photo credit: Flickr – Tony Webster
This is the city’s emblematic building! You must not miss it if you come to visit Quebec! It is in fact a castle hotel inaugurated in 1893. With its 618 rooms and 18 floors, it was declared a National Historic Site of Canada in 1981. He would seem to be the most photographed hotel in the world... If your budget allows you, why not spend a night there? Or enjoy a delicious dinner at its gourmet restaurant. You can also simply observe this impressive building of beauty as well as the view of the St.Lawrence River.
6. The district of Petit-Champlain
Photo credit: Flickr – Viv Lynch
From the Dufferin terrace, take the funicular direction to the famous Petit-Champlain district. You will fall under the charm of its pedestrian streets, typical houses, small craft shops and numerous bars and restaurants. As you walk, you will pass in front of Place Royale and the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, or the fresco of Quebecers staging the history of the city.
7. L’observatoire de la capitale
Photo credit: Flickr – Colin Knowles
For a breathtaking 360° view of Quebec, head to the observatory of the capital. It is located on the top floor of the Marie-Guyart building on the parliamentary hill. You will climb into the elevator that will lead you to 221 meters above sea level and from there, you will be able to enjoy the incredible view that offers you! You can see the river, the citadel, the Plains of Abraham or the Island of Orleans... Your cameras!
8. Parc de la Chute-Montmorency
Photo credit: Flickr – Suzanne Normand (Camwil)
Located less than 20 minutes by car from Quebec City, discover the impressive Montmorency Fall, 30 meters taller than the Niagara Falls. To admire it, several ways are available to you: by cable car, by the panoramic staircase of 480 steps or from the suspended bridge. For the bravest, 3 routes via ferrata and a zipline of 300 meters long promise you an unforgettable moment!
How to get to Quebec?
L’ Jean-Lesage International Airport is located 16 km from downtown. Direct flights to Québec are available from Paris (account 7:45 am). You can find a cheap flight on our partner's website Ulysses .
Where to stay in Quebec?
If you choose to visit Quebec, several neighbourhoods offer to you according to your desires! The offer of accommodation is important, especially thanks to the housing of the inhabitant. The Old Quebec district is the historic quarter of the city, so the most tourist area, ideal if you want a central position. The Saint-Jean-Baptiste district is an active and young neighborhood, or you will find hotels a little higher in range. You can find a cheap hotel in Quebec by searching for this Compare hotels .
Walking around and discovering Quebec is also having the joy of facing an open, simple, humorous and warm hospitality population! Are you still wondering what to do in Quebec?
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