Quebec City, Canada is one of North America’s oldest cities. It’s often referred to as The Paris of North America. The old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has fortified city walls, making it the only North American city north of Mexico with them. The Lower Town of Quebec City is easily walkable with its cobblestone streets and European-style stone buildings. You can explore the historic Petit Champlain district, Place Royale, Rue du Tresor, and even take on the challenge of the “Breakneck Stairs.” For a unique experience, ride the Funicular Car and immerse yourself in the European look and feel of the city.
Sightseeing in Quebec City
Visit Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church in Old Quebec
As you stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets in the Lower Town of Quebec City, it is inevitable that you will stumble upon a charming little square graced by the presence of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, a stunning Roman Catholic stone church. This delightful spot provides the perfect opportunity to take a break and unwind after a lengthy walk, all while immersing yourself in the enchanting ambiance of the surroundings. With its construction initiated in 1687 on the very site of Champlain’s habitation, the church was ultimately finished in 1723, rendering it a remarkable testament of history. Undoubtedly, a visit to this architectural gem is highly recommended.
Porte Saint-Louis (St. Louis Gate)
Porte Saint-Louis is located over the Rue Saint-Louis (street); this gate was built around 1694 and reconstructed over the years, with the present gate being established by Lord Dufferin in 1880. In addition to the big central tunnel, there are pedestrian tunnels on either side of the road.
Visit Petit Champlain
The Petit-Champlain is a picture-perfect neighborhood resembling an old-fashioned riverside village located at the bottom of Cote de la Montagne.
Ever since its founding in 1608, Quebec has undergone significant transformations. It started as a modest port-side village featuring fur trading posts and elegant quarters. However, thanks to an ambitious urban restoration project, Quartier Petit-Champlain has emerged as a charming neighborhood. Its narrow cobblestone streets are now adorned with an array of distinctive boutiques and inviting bistros. Moreover, the impressive historical architecture adds to its allure, making it one of the city’s most sought-after attractions.
You will find many bistros in a romantic atmosphere like the one below. A great place to buy handicrafts by artisans from all over Quebec
The Battlefields Park in Quebec City
National Battlefields Park (a combination of Plains of Abraham and Des Braves Park) is over a hundred years old. The 1759 Battle of the Plains of Abraham was the defining confrontation between the French and British Empires in North America. Months later, in 1760, the two powers clashed again in the Battle of Sainte-Foy, sometimes called the Battle of Quebec, where Des Braves Park now stands. Much of the plains is now Battlefields Park. It is a scenic walk from the citadel, passing the Joan of Arc’s garden west to the Beaux-arts museum. A must-see place while visiting Quebec City.
The Parliament Building, Quebec City
The Parliament Building is an eight-floored building and one of the most important historical sites in Quebec City, whose architecture is in the Second Empire style. A public tour of the Parliament building is available, including the National Assembly Chamber with its Renaissance architecture and the legislative council chambers.
Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
Notre-Dame de Québec Church was built in 1647 and named Notre-Dame de la Paix. It was the first church to be made of stone in the city. Located on Rue De Buade, a visit will have the opportunity to see various works of art and pieces of archives with splendid interior decoration as a background.
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, in Quebec City
This is one of the most photographed hotel in the world. Situated in a beautiful location overlooking the St. Lawrence river and the city of Levis on the other side. The beautiful terrace called Terrasse Dufferin that wraps around the Château Frontenac. It was built in 1879 under the direction of Lord Dufferin, the then Governor-general of Canada.
Parc Montmorency (Montmorency Park)
Situated in the City’s historic core, at the top of Côte de la Montagne, this park holds a significant place in Quebec’s fortifications. Due to its strategic location, it played a crucial role in defense, providing clear views of the river and the defensive wall.
Gare du Palais is a train and bus station in Quebec City, Quebec.
Quebec’s central railway station, the Gare du Palais, is conveniently located near the Old Port, right at the foot of the Old City hill. This historic station, reminiscent of the golden age of rail travel, was constructed by Canadian Pacific to complement the iconic Chateau Frontenac hotel. Although there is now only one railway line connecting to Montreal, with four trains departing and arriving daily, the station also serves as a hub for local and regional bus services. Traveling to Montreal from here takes approximately three hours, and from there, you can connect to other destinations within the extensive Via network.
Levis On The Other Side of St. Lawerence River
In the afternoon, we went to the waterfront in Levis and took beautiful pictures of Quebec City across the stunning St. Lawrence River. While exploring, I discovered a hidden geocache near the Scout office, which added excitement to our visit. We also visited a lovely park with a panoramic river view. It was interesting to see a group of people sitting along the wall, sketching and possibly attending an art class.
Lévis, a city in eastern Quebec, Canada, holds a strategic position on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, directly across from Quebec City. The connectivity between these two vibrant locations is facilitated by various means of transportation. Firstly, a ferry conveniently links Old Quebec with Old Lévis, offering a scenic journey across the river. In addition, two bridges, namely the Quebec Bridge and the Pierre Laporte Bridge, serve as vital links between western Lévis and Quebec City, allowing for seamless travel and connectivity between the two areas.
Visit Montmorency Falls
Parc de la Chute-Montmorency is a must-visit place just 15 km from Quebec City. It has a massive 83 m waterfall, taller than Niagara Falls by 30 m. Take a cable car to the top for a breathtaking view. There are also lookout points throughout the site with stunning vistas of the area.
Where to stay in Quebec City, Canada
Hotel Chateau Bellevue, Quebec City
This modern European-style hotel in Quebec City overlooks the St-Lawrence River and is one block from the Citadelle de Quebec. The Quebec Chateau Bellevue is within 2 minutes of the Terrasse Dufferin, a walkway to the Plains of Abraham. The Musée de la Civilization is less than 0.6 mi away. Valet parking is available, but contact the hotel in advance.
Les Lofts St-Joseph by Les Lofts Vieux-Québec
Les Lofts St-Joseph is a modernly decorated accommodation located in the heart of Quebec City. The property is 10 minute’s walk from Old Quebec. A fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and laundry facilities are featured in each apartment. In addition, each spacious apartment at Les Lofts provides access to a communal rooftop terrace that offers a view of the city. There is public transportation approximately 5 minute’s walk away from the property.
My Opinion and Last Word
Have you been to Quebec City, Canada? Any cool tips to share?
I loved being in Quebec City, Canada, and want to go back again. I hope my story has motivated you to visit Canada.
Please leave a comment below! I’d love to hear from you to improve my knowledge.
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