Enjoy Old Quebec City…Anytime

This multi-season destination offers European charm, rich Canadian history and several unique attractions for a great destination.

Courtesy Québec City Tourism

There’s a marvel just past every street corner in the birthplace of French North America. Slip on some comfortable shoes (or boots) and follow your own path through its four centuries of history. Termed the ‘Old City,’ this is a destination to enjoy pretty much anytime of the year where you can take in an awe-inspiring journey through a series of architectural treasures unlike anything outside Europe. 

All of the monumental beauty has a place on UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites, which is just one more reason to experience this Canadian treasure. Here a list of some of the attractions you don’t want to miss regardless of when you visit Old Quebec. 

Château Frontenac 

The world’s most photographed hotel

Settled on a clifftop, the iconic Château Frontenac has been the crown jewel of the Old City for more than 125 years. Getting your picture taken or taking a selfie with the grand hotel is obviously a must. Better yet, step inside for a better look at the Château’s remarkable architecture. 

Guided tours through its corridors and public spaces is an educating experience as you learn about its famous guests and the historic meetings between global political leaders. Additionally, it offers the chance to admire the blend of old world and art deco architectural details and the beautifully hand-carved beams, painted ceilings and elegant décor.

Enhance your experience further by visiting the Château’s two restaurants, Le Champlain and Le Sam. Then there’s Bar 1608 where you can relax over a cool beverage while looking out at the fantastic views of the St. Lawrence River. Sunday Brunch at Le Champlain is also popular with an array of locally-inspired culinary delights.

Terrasse Dufferin (Dufferin Terrace) 

Enjoy this hotspot with an amazing view 

This long wooden walkway next to the Château Frontenac affords more stunning views.  At the far end, you can climb a few more steps to Promenade des Gouverneurs or to the Pierre-Dugua-De Mons Terrace for a breathtaking panorama of the Château, the Old City, the St. Lawrence River, Île d’Orléans, and the surrounding Laurentian Mountains.

Petit-Champlain 

Fall in love with Canada’s prettiest pedestrian street 

If the European charm of this ravishing pedestrian street doesn’t enchant you, the shopkeepers will.  Wander into one-of-a-kind boutiques and meet some of Québec City’s artists and artisans. Slow down and check out the architectural details. 

One of the oldest shopping streets in North America, Petit-Champlain has a series of boutiques offering beautiful products created by local artisans. Shop for local designer clothing, Indigenous sculptures, handicrafts, jewellery, and more. It’s also one of the best streets for finding Québec-made souvenirs.

Place Royale

Explore the place where Québec City was founded 

This is the spot where, in 1608, Samuel de Champlain built what became the first permanent French settlement in North America. Its European charm is set off by the exquisite Notre-Dame-des Victoires Church, one of the continent’s oldest stone church. This is one of the oldest stone churches in North America and the location where Champlain’s trading post once stood.  It’s truly the heart of Place-Royale. 

Place Royale has an abundance of European charm with its cobblestone streets and buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Snap endless photos of the square and pose for photos on rue Saint-Pierre and des Pains Bénits. In winter, when the Christmas tree is erected and everything is covered in snow, this little neighbourhood is pure magic.

Basilique-Cathédrale de Notre-Dame de Québec 

Enjoy a quiet moment by the only Holy Door outside Europe 

Take some time to sit back and enjoy the majesty that surrounds you in the continent’s first Catholic parish north of Mexico. It’s also the site of the first and only Holy Door in The Americas. The neoclassical façade, asymmetrical towers, stained glass, and three Casavant organs are some of the highlights of this genuine architectural masterpiece.

Québec City's Walls 

Travel Back in Time along North America’s only walled-city north of Mexico 

You might be asking yourself: “Why is Québec City Walled?” The escarpment of Cap Diamant provided the colony of New France with a natural defence system on the west side. A decision was made to build fortification walls on the other sides to provide better protection. From these walls, the colonists could spot enemies approaching from land and The St. Lawrence River, providing ample time to prepare a defence for an attack – the system worked well for centuries. 

Today, the ramparts remain intact as a testament to the character, history and battles that have taken place here since the 17th Century. Sure, you can walk through the Saint-Louis and Saint-Jean Gates but you can also walk on top of the ramparts between them. There are stairs in the Artillery Park near the Saint-Jean Gate that will take you up over Place D’Youville. The stones have been meticulously restored, making these the best preserved fortifications in North America.

Citadelle de Québec

Dive into the city’s military history at Britain’s biggest fortress in North America 

On the city’s natural summit on Cape Diamond is another authentic historic wonder. The Citadelle has been home base for the Royal 22e Régiment since 1920. Tour the fortress for a behind-the-scenes look at Québec City’s defences.

Plains of Abraham 

Get on the site of the Battle of 1759 

The Battle of the Plains of Abraham exhibit is one of the best ways to learn about the circumstances and history of this famous battle. Learn about Generals Montcalm and Wolfe, how the battle took shape and much more. The area is even an ideal for laying out on a blanket and enjoying a picnic comprised of local goods – a delightful experience on any sunny day.

Old Port

Experience the charm of the irresistible streets just steps from the St. Lawrence River 

More shopping experiences can be found on Rue Saint-Paul where there are art galleries, cafés, and restaurants.  In the summer, some streets in the Old Port transform into terraces, allowing you to live the unique experience of a huge open-air restaurant. It's also the best place to shop for antiques and art in Québec City. Start on rue Saint-Paul and continue to rue Saint-Pierre, popping into antique shops for artifacts that are functional, religious and decorative. 

Wander through the small art galleries and discover the astounding talent of Québec artists. There’s a good chance you’ll find a piece to display at home, a constant reminder of your unforgettable trip to Québec City.

For more information and details visit www.quebec-cite.com

Camping Near the City? Here are some Top Choices 

Although camping may be limited in the winter months, start planning for late spring as there are a series of full-service RV parks nearby Old Quebec. Here are a few of them to enhance your visit:

Camping Stoneham

Just a 30-minute drive to Old Quebec, this wooded campground has more than 250 sites that can accommodate RVs of various sizes. There’s also 30-and 50-amp power available plus all the necessary services you need. With many activities, cool off in the on-site swimming pool or one of the two artificial lakes, which are perfect for tubing and other water-based pastimes. For the all the details and services visit www.campingstoneham.ca 

Camping Valcartier

Stay and play or see the sites of Old Quebec. Camping Valcartier is only a 30-minutes away to visit the nearby attractions and the park has all the necessary services needed for your RV, including 30- and 50-amp power, and many current amenities. For the all the details and services visit https://www.valcartier.com

Camping Mont-Sainte-Anne

This is where you’re offered the best of both worlds. You can drive 40 minutes to Old Quebec City one day and then explore nearby Mont-Sainte-Anne – with its golfing, mountain biking and hiking opportunities – the next. The pet-friendly, 166-site park has a series of services and amenities with 30-amp power. For the all the details and services visit www.campingquebec.com

Jacques Cartier National Park

If you prefer an all-natural setting, consider Jacques Cartier National Park. It’s 45 minutes to Old Quebec or you can always visit the park’s Discovery and Visitors Centre to learn about all the outdoor activities after seeing the sights. It’s also open year-around to expand your outdoor adventure in the winter months. For all the details and services visit www.sepaq.com