Being in Quebec City is like stepping into a beautiful storybook with its well-preserved architecture and quaint cobblestone streets. This French-Canadian landmark is one of the oldest European cities in North America and also the only walled city north of Mexico. Whether you want to just shop and take in the ambiance or go on a historic tour, this city enchants. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I visited this port numerous times, so I love sharing the Quebec City top twelve things to do.
Knowing a bit of history is paramount for enjoying Quebec City, so as to give meaning to your surroundings. The city itself is a living, outdoor museum. Originally, the Algonquian People named the area Kebec, meaning “where the river narrows.
Perched on a plateau overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, the explorer Samuel de Champlain founded this French settlement in 1608. Also, it’s strategically located on Cap Diamant (Cape Diamond). Furthermore, Quebec City was formed by the confluence of the bend in the Saint Lawrence River and the much smaller, Saint Charles River flowing north.
Overall, the plateau on the Cap Diamant walks you through the French-Canadian military history. Several defensive fortifications became built originally by the French, and later the British, after their conquest of New France. For example, the Battle of Québec (the pivotal event of the French and Indian War, when the French were forced to cede Canada to Great Britain) took place here. Also, the modern citadel was built in 1850, to later secure Quebec City against American invaders. Overall, walking through this town is reliving history with panoramic views from all directions.
Sustainable Travel in Quebec City
Quebec City and Carbone Boreal have a simple tool to calculate and offset the carbon footprint related to your trip to Quebec City. Carbone Boreal is a research facility at University du Quebec a Chicoutimi. Your carbon offset will be used to plant trees in the boreal forest, which plays an important role in fight against climate change. Factors are considered for footprint, such as, flight, ground transportation, meals, outdoor activities, culture and art, recreation and excursions, events and accommodations. Trees planted to offset Co2 emissions from the trip. Carbone boreal planting sites are on bare patches of the boreal forest north of Lac-Saint-Jean. For more information see Quebec-cite.com
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Top 12 Things to Do in Quebec City
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Quebec is a peripatetic dream with so much to explore, such as, world-class restaurants, bistros, cafes, shopping, pubs and antique shops. The French, old world charm welcomes you through these labyrinthine cobblestone streets. Most of the things listed here are in Old Quebec: Place Royal, Quartier Petit-Champlain, Terrasse Dufferin, Chateau Frontenac, Citadelle, Notre Dame Basilica and Plains of Abraham. It’s best to do a walking tour because everything is in close distance.
Place Royal
A good starting point is Place Royal. In 1608, this is where Samuel de Champlain founded the City of Québec. Here stands the oldest stone church in North America, Notre Dame des Victoires Church. Also, there restored stores, cafes and the spectacular mural, Fresque des Quebecois.
Plus, the stunning architecture captivates with the castles and cathedrals. There’s something for everyone around every ivied corner and alleyway. Also, be sure you to climb the famously steep Escalier Casse-Cou (Breakneck Steps), or at least ride the funicular to the top to enjoy fantastic views of Old Québec.
Shop Local at Quartier Petit-Champlain
Located in the southeast part of Old Quebec, this is the oldest shopping district in North America. Overall, it’s filled with splendid boutique shops and cafes. I was seduced by the boutique, Bilodeau and bought a fall sweater coat. Because the winters are cold here, this is a wonderful place to shop for unique and even chic winter coats, sweaters and hats. Plus, the best thing about buying clothing here, is that no one else will be wearing it when you get back home.
French Restaurants and Bistros
Quebec City is a foodie paradise. Here are to name a few. Chez Boulay – Bistro boréal is French‑style bistro with unique sauces to celebrate the culture here. Alentours is a sustainable, zero‑waste restaurant that serves exclusively local fare. The culinary experience at Bistro hortus is one of sustainably sourced ingredients, all traceable from farm to plate and 90% organic. La Korrigane brews some of the best craft beer in Canada using ingredients from Québec’s boreal forest. Also, my favorite cafe for morning Latte and chocolate croissant always started at Cafe La Maison Smith in Place Royal.
Terrasse Dufferin
This spectacular terrace wraps around the iconic Chateau Frontenac towards the Citadelle of Quebec, overlooking the St. Lawrence River. The walkway is made of wood, along with gazebos and benches. Overall, it’s an enchanting walk with wonderful views and even street performances. Formerly a military fortification, it showcases historic cannons and, also, has a glissade slide with sleds for winter fun.
Tour the Chateau Frontenac
The Chateau Frontenac is the biggest icon for Quebec City and the most photographed hotel in the world. Guided tours with historic insights bring this building to life. Overall, visitors can admire the architectural design of old world and art deco with chandeliers and painted ceilings. The restaurants in the Chateau Frontenac are the Le Champlain, Le Sam and Bar 1608. Even more, Afternoon Tea is available with online reservations for $70. Plus, you can really splurge and stay in this historic monument with art deco rooms.
Citadelle of Quebec
Located on the highest point in Quebec City, the Citadelle of Quebec is a place to feel history come alive and also take in the panoramic views. This military site took 30 years to construct and has been active since 1850. It was first occupied by the British troops beforehand, and then by the Royal Canadian Artillery. Also, there is an on-site museum with military artifacts. Between end of June and September, you can witness the Changing of the Guard Ceremony.
Because the Citadelle is still active, visitors can only visit through organized tours arranged at the gate or online. Overall, the 60-minute guided tour takes you through the fortress, an active garrison occupied by the Royal 22e Régiment with amazing views of Québec City and the St. Lawrence River. Also, it includes access to the Royal 22e Régiment Museum.
Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec
Located in the heart of Old Quebec, the Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Quebec is the oldest church in Canada as the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Quebec. Since being built in 1647, it burned down 2 times. Thus, reconstructed later, the current Neo-classic façade harmonizes with the Quebec architecture.
Uniquely, this cathedral offers the only opportunities for a pilgrimage to a “Holy Door” in the Americas. However, you can only pass through it on Jubilee years. The next Jubilee is 2024. The self-guided tour begins in Saint-Joseph chapel and guides you through the architecture and history of the tomb of Saint-François de Laval, the Altar of the Holy Family, the Central and Saint-Anne Naves, the Sacré-Coeur Chapel and Holy Door.
Battlefield Park or the Plains of Abraham
This 267-acres of land, just west of Old Quebec is the venue of The Battle of Quebec. Elegantly, it’s been transformed into beautiful Gardens and riverfront vistas. Two Martello Towers, originally used for defense, still stand in the park. Also, be sure to see the incredible Joan of Arc Garden, that is a great place for a walk or picnic. This garden is a nice blend of French style with English flower beds. Overall, there are over 150 species of colorful species to observe.
Old Port
Old Port is the best place to shop for antiques and art in Québec City. Incredible antique shops lie on rue Saint-Paul and Saint-Pierre. Also, numerous small art galleries showcase the local artists. The Museum of Civilization is in the area and described below.
The Old Port stretches along the St. Lawrence River and offers wonderful places to walk or take water excursions. The cruise terminal and marina are also here with views of the majestic Cap Diamant and Chateau Frontenac. Also, the Place des Canotiers is an urban park that is popular with views and spectacular fountains.
Museum of Civilization
Located in the Old Port, the modern Museum of Civilization strikes a nice contrast to Old Quebec. It’s a wonderful way to learn the story of Quebec. Surrounded by glass panes and greenery, the building is a piece of art itself. It has numerous unique historic art and artifacts, that collectively narrate the history of Quebec. Plus, there are numerous interactive and educational exhibits to interest everyone.
Montmorency Falls Park
Just 9 miles northeast of Old Quebec along the St. Lawrence River, the Montmorency Falls Park is a refreshing nature break from the cobblestone streets of Quebec. I took the 800 bus (runs every 10 minutes) straight to the Falls, for only $6 round-trip. Plus, on a sunny day, the 272-foot waterfall illuminates a prismatic rainbow from the sun-glistening water falling into the river.
Overall, there are a variety of activities at the park, such as, hiking trails, biking paths, playgrounds and even ziplining. I particularly enjoyed their flower gardens with labeled species to learn about the native flora of the region.
Shrine of Sainte Anne De Beaupre
Located 30 km east of Quebec City on the St. Lawrence River, St. Anne Basilica is the oldest destination for pilgrimages in North America. I suggest taking the AML River Shuttle for a scenic 1-hour ride to the basilica. For more than 350 years, people have come here to give respects to St. Anne, the grandmother of Jesus. Over the years this became a sanctuary for healing miracles. Inside the basilica is walls with crutches, walkers and canes left behind by the healed pilgrims.
The Visitor Center offers maps with nice volunteers to answer any questions. Inside the basilica the highlights are the St. Anne statue where people pray for healings. The mosaics inside are stunning with many displaying featured saints. Other highlights inside the basilica include the Immaculate Conception Chapel, The Pieta, The Tomb of Father Alfred Pampalon (Patron of those suffering addictions) and the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. Nearby across Avenue Royale is Memorial Chapel, The Way of the Cross recalling the Passion and The Scala Santa or ‘Holy Stairs” replica of those Jesus ascended for Pilates tribunal.
Overall, Quebec City Top Twelve Things to Do
Quebec City is a destination with eclectic opportunities for both culture and nature and is an organic extension from the river and its banks. Every season brings a whole new perspective to enjoy its splendor. My experience was in the autumn; therefore, I experienced its essence through the lens of fall colors. Regardless the time of year you visit, this destination is a stunning reminder of its chic, yet tumultuous French-Canadian heritage.
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