A GUIDE TO QUEBEC CITY: CANADA’S HISTORIC FRENCH TOWN
By Terri Guthrie
So, you want to go to France? Consider going to Quebec City, Quebec, in Canada. It’s the most French place outside the country of France…and a whole lot closer. As the birthplace of New France and the only walled city in North America, Old Québec City is a living museum, rich in history and full of surprises. This 400-year-old city is full of European charm.
Québec City’s Old Town is a historic neighborhood comprising an Upper Town and a Lower Town; the entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a must-visit destination for travelers. Old Quebec City offers such a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture. It’s simply magical.
Here’s a short guide to help you plan your trip.
What to Do in Old Québec?
Slip on some comfortable shoes and walk your path through centuries of history. The Old Town has many interesting sites to visit and is an awe-inspiring journey through architectural treasures unlike anything outside Europe. My best advice is to take a walking tour, or a Big Red Bus tour, when you arrive to enjoy the city’s rich heritage throughout your stay. Old Quebec is especially clean and safe.
The Fairmont Château Frontenac
See the world’s most photographed hotel. Rising up from a clifftop, the iconic Château Frontenac has been the crown jewel of the Old City for over 125 years. Getting your picture taken in front of this landmark is obviously a must. Step inside to get a better look at the Château’s remarkable architectural style and learn about its extraordinary story.
Even if you are not a hotel guest, you can take a tour of the Château Frontenac, considered one of the most iconic hotels in Canada. We took a terrific, guided tour through the hotel’s public spaces, learning about its famous guests and the historic meetings between global political leaders. We admired the blend of old-world and Art Deco architectural details, the beautifully hand-carved beams, and the painted ceilings.
Dufferin Terrace
Summer on the Dufferin Terrace is a whirlwind of singers and entertainers strutting their stuff. Directly in front of the Frontenac, the terrace is a prime location to see fireworks during special events or a breathtaking panoramic view of the Saint Lawrence River and surrounding mountains.
Rue Petit-Champlain
We fell in love with Canada’s prettiest pedestrian street (which is saying a lot). If the European charm of this ravishing, exclusively pedestrian street doesn’t enchant you, the shopkeepers will. Rue Petit-Champlain is so picturesque. We loved wandering around and visiting one-of-a-kind boutiques, as well as meeting some of Québec City’s unique artists. Take a moment to look up and savor the architectural details. You’ll see why we love Petit-Champlain. It’s both enchanting and romantic, day and night.
Citadelle de Québec
The Citadelle has been the home base for the Royal 22e Regiment since 1920. One thing that surely got my attention is their long-time military tradition of firing a cannon each day at noon. Tour the fortress for a behind-the-scenes look at Québec City’s defenses.
Military enthusiasts and history lovers, like my husband, will love the guided tour of the Citadelle. It’s the only way to tour this military base. When the tour was finished, we wandered through the museum. It’s impressive to see artifacts and documents that pay homage to the rich history of the Royal 22e Régiment.
In the summer, they also have musical performances here. The musicians of the Royal 22e Régiment dress in their red uniforms and traditional bear fur caps and present a beloved musical performance. This show is set against the backdrop of Old Québec City, accompanied by the sounds of trumpets, French horns, symbols, and drums. This is one reason for me to return.
Take a Guided Tour of Old Québec
Québec City is best explored on foot. The whole city is easily walkable, but that’s especially true in Old Québec, with its concentration of charming little streets and historical buildings. When you’re on foot, it’s easier to slow down and see the details, pop into a shop, and admire the surroundings. However, be aware that there are many hills to navigate.
Several local companies offer historical and themed tours. The Old City is honestly like an open-air museum, and the best way to know what you are looking is to take a walking tour with a local guide. A new living history lesson awaits around every corner. No matter which sightseeing tour you pick, you’re in for a real treat!
Strolling through Old Québec
One of my most memorable walks was after dinner, when we enjoyed a sunset stroll on top of the old city wall. It was fun to explore Old Québec from new vantage points. We covered 2.5 miles of the city’s ramparts.
Steep streets and staircases connect Lower Town and Upper Town. Or you can take the Funicular. This is an excellent option for individuals who may have difficulty climbing stairs. I took the Funicular on the Dufferin Terrace to go to the Lower Town. It’s fun and efficient. On my way back to the Frontenac, I took the stairs to the Upper Town. It was a hike and a good workout.
Enjoy a St. Lawrence River Cruise
While on the Quebec City Lévis Ferry, we admired the magnificent landscapes, including Cap Diamond, which is especially beautiful when illuminated at night. Back on land, we strolled along the bike path beside the river. The return trip only takes about an hour.
Get your camera ready as you follow your own curated path through this iconic, fortified city. Expect an awe-inspiring journey through rich history and architectural treasures unlike anything outside Europe. Get ready to step into another place and travel back in time and have a trip of a lifetime.
Plan Your Visit: https://www.quebec-cite.com/en
Terri Guthrie is a travel journalist based in Dallas, Texas. Her syndicated work appears in numerous publications across North America and beyond. She is formerly a broadcast news director for WFTW Vacationland Broadcasting and a radio announcer for Florida’s AP Network News. Her husband, Ron, a retired USAF Fighter Pilot and Commercial International Airline Pilot, globe-trots with Terri as her assistant and videographer. Having visited 50+ countries across all six continents, Terri’s travels focus on cultural immersion, local gastronomy, unique activities, and incredible journeys. She is obsessed with our national parks, historic hotels, and photography. Terri avidly promotes responsible travel experiences. Visit https://travelwithterri.net/
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