Old Quebec City feels like a slice of Europe in North America. Stone walls surround its cobbled streets, and a castle-like hotel rises above the St. Lawrence River. Meanwhile, French is spoken everywhere, and cafés spill onto little squares. In fact, it is the only fortified city north of Mexico whose walls still stand. Also, it is beautiful in every season, from summer festivals to snowy winter nights. So, here is how to plan your visit.
Quick Facts About Old Quebec City
| Country | Canada |
| Region | Quebec, on the St. Lawrence River |
| Known For | City walls, Château Frontenac, French culture, cobbled streets and winter carnival |
| UNESCO Status | Historic District of Old Québec, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 |
| Founded | 1608, by the French explorer Samuel de Champlain |
| Best Time to Visit | June to September, or December to February for winter scenery |
| Getting There | About three hours by train or car from Montreal |
Where Is Old Quebec City?
Quebec City is the capital of the province of Quebec in eastern Canada. Specifically, the old town sits on Cap Diamant, a high cliff above the St. Lawrence River. In addition, the historic district is divided into the Upper Town, on top of the cliff, and the Lower Town, by the water. As a result, staircases and a funicular connect the two levels.
Why Visit Old Quebec City?
First, the history is remarkable. Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608, making it one of the oldest European settlements in North America. Consequently, UNESCO listed its historic district as a World Heritage Site in 1985.
Second, Old Quebec City has a distinctly French atmosphere. For example, you can enjoy crêpes, café au lait and French conversation without crossing the Atlantic. Finally, it is compact and easy to explore on foot. If you loved our guide to Lunenburg in Canada, you will enjoy this other historic Canadian town.
Things to Do in Old Quebec City
Admire the Château Frontenac
The Château Frontenac is the symbol of the city. It opened in 1893 as a railway hotel, and it is often called the most photographed hotel in the world. Then, stroll along Dufferin Terrace in front of it for wide views of the river.
Explore Petit Champlain
In the Lower Town, the Petit Champlain district is one of the oldest commercial areas in North America. Its narrow pedestrian streets are lined with boutiques, galleries and restaurants. Above all, it is especially magical in winter, when lights and snow cover the rooftops.
Visit Place Royale
Place Royale is where Champlain built his first settlement. Today, it is surrounded by stone houses and the small church of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, which dates from 1688. In addition, a giant mural nearby tells the story of the city’s history.
Walk the City Walls
The walls stretch for about 4.6 kilometers around the Upper Town. Moreover, you can walk along much of them for free. Along the way, you will pass historic gates such as Porte Saint-Louis and Porte Saint-Jean.
Tour the Citadelle and the Plains of Abraham
The Citadelle is a star-shaped fortress that is still an active military base. In summer, for example, you can watch the changing of the guard. Next door, the Plains of Abraham is a large park where a famous battle took place in 1759.
Day Trips From Old Quebec City
Montmorency Falls
Montmorency Falls is about 15 minutes from the city by car. In fact, the waterfall is about 30 meters taller than Niagara Falls. Furthermore, you can cross a suspension bridge above it or ride a cable car to the top.
Île d’Orléans
Île d’Orléans is a rural island in the St. Lawrence, just east of the city. Similarly, it is known for farm stands, cider makers, vineyards and old stone churches. Therefore, it is perfect for a slow drive or a bike ride.
One Historical Fact About Old Quebec City
In 1759, British forces defeated the French army on the Plains of Abraham, just outside the city walls. Both commanders, James Wolfe and the Marquis de Montcalm, died from their wounds. As a result, the battle changed the history of North America.
How to Get to Old Quebec City
Jean Lesage International Airport is about 25 minutes from the old town. Alternatively, trains from Montreal take a little over three hours. In addition, the drive from Montreal takes about three hours. Once you arrive, leave the car and explore on foot.
Best Time to Visit Old Quebec City
The best time to visit is from June to September, when the weather is warm and festivals fill the streets. On the other hand, winter has its own charm. In particular, the Quebec Winter Carnival in February brings ice sculptures, parades and night-time fun. Also, autumn colors make late September and early October beautiful.
Is Old Quebec City Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Old Quebec City offers history, French culture and beautiful views in one walkable city. Ideally, spend at least three nights to enjoy the old town and nearby countryside. For another historic colonial town, read our guide to San Miguel de Allende in Mexico.
Final Thoughts on Old Quebec City
In short, Old Quebec is a European-style gem in North America. Walk the walls, explore Petit Champlain and watch the sunset from Dufferin Terrace. By the end of your stay, you will understand why this city charms visitors all year round.
Image Credits
Wikimedia Commons
Wilfredor: Chateau Frontenac at dusk in Quebec City, CC0
Wilfredor: Quartier Petit Champlain 001, CC BY-SA 4.0
Gilbert Bochenek: Québec-Place Royale 2011, CC BY-SA 3.0
Marc-Lautenbacher: Fortifications of Québec National Historic Site of Canada, Porte Saint-Louis 02, CC BY-SA 4.0
Wilfredor: Montmorency waterfall, Québec, Québec, CC BY-SA 4.0
