Things to do in Quebec City abound in this vibrant and historic destination, where cobblestone streets meet picturesque architecture and a rich cultural heritage comes alive. Quebec City, the only walled city in North America, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored
From the majestic Citadelle to the scenic Saint Lawrence River, the city’s unique blend of French and Canadian influences will leave you enchanted. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the best Things to do in Quebec City and uncover the secrets of this enchanting metropolis.
History of Quebec City
Quebec City, the capital of the Canadian province of Quebec, has a long and storied history dating back to 1535 with the arrival of French explorer Jacques Cartier. The city was officially established in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, setting the stage for its importance in the French fur trade and as a military outpost.
Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Quebec City played a crucial role in the conflicts between the French and British empires. It faced British sieges in 1690 and 1759, ultimately falling to the British after the decisive battle on the Plains of Abraham. The city remained under British control until Canada gained self-governing status in 1867.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Quebec City experienced significant growth and industrialization, evolving into a key commercial center and a central point in the Canadian railway system. The city’s historic district was carefully preserved and restored in the mid-20th century, leading to its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 1985.
Today, Quebec City is a vibrant urban center that celebrates its cultural heritage while embracing modernity. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s historical sites, museums, and cultural offerings, as well as enjoy its lively arts scene, diverse cuisine, and breathtaking natural surroundings.
With a blend of history and contemporary allure, Quebec City stands out as a captivating destination for all.
Visit Attractions in Quebec City
- Notre-Dame Basilica is a top attraction in Quebec City due to its stunning stained-glass windows and intricate interior design, dating back to 1656. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about its rich history and significance.
- Old Quebec is a historic neighborhood filled with charming streets, picturesque buildings, shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. Visitors can enjoy walking along cobblestone streets and immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.
- Mount Royal Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering hiking trails, winter sports, panoramic city views, and a tranquil lake. Visitors can rent boats for a relaxing afternoon on the water.
- The Montreal Botanical Garden is a gem in the city, showcasing over 20,000 plant species for botany enthusiasts and nature lovers to enjoy. Visitors can explore greenhouses, gardens, and bask in the peaceful surroundings.
- Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, located just outside the city, is a thrilling attraction featuring a stunning waterfall, zip-lining, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. Visitors can take a cable car ride to the top of the falls for breathtaking views.
Best Restaurants in Quebec City
Arvi: Situated in Limoilou, this restaurant is adored by both meat-eaters and vegetarians. The open kitchen layout allows customers to watch the chefs as they prepare their meals. The restaurant is famous for its creative flavor pairings and stunning plating. Reservations need to be made well in advance, and the restaurant requires payment upfront.
Bistro La Cohue: A French restaurant known for its exceptional staff and delectable lunch choices. The restaurant has received outstanding reviews, with many customers praising the exceptional service provided by the staff, specifically mentioning Roxanne, Robert, and Bruno.
Restaurant Ophelia: A seafood and grill restaurant renowned for its lobster with pasta and salmon. With hundreds of reviews, it is considered one of the top restaurants in Quebec City.
Bachir: A Lebanese and Mediterranean restaurant celebrated for its tabouli and fried potatoes. With over 1,000 reviews, it is considered one of the premier restaurants in Quebec City.
Restaurant Tanire: A Canadian restaurant recognized for its superb cuisine and service. Many reviewers regard it as the finest restaurant in Quebec City, with numerous comments on the exceptional ingredients used by the restaurant.
Best Time to Visit in Quebec City
Winter (Dec-Mar): Chilly, snowy, and full of holiday cheer, offering winter sports and festivities such as the Quebec Winter Carnival.
Spring (Mar-May): Pleasant, featuring sugar shacks and opportunities for spring skiing.
Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunny and warm, perfect for outdoor activities like cycling, swimming, and enjoying festivals like the Festival d’été de Québec.
Fall (Sep-Nov): Mild and cozy, showcasing beautiful foliage and events like the Montreal International Jazz Festival.
7 Things to do in Quebec City
- Discover Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec): Wander around the charming cobblestone streets and admire the historic architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Stop by the Chateau Frontenac: This famous hotel has been a Quebec City icon since 1893 and provides breathtaking views of the Saint Lawrence River.
- Marvel at Montmorency Falls (Chute-Montmorency): Ride a cable car or hike to the top of this impressive waterfall, which is even taller than Niagara Falls.
- Join the Quebec City Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec): Immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere during this annual winter festival, complete with ice sculptures, sleigh rides, and delicious hot chocolate.
- Explore the Musée de la Civilisation (Museum of Civilization): Learn about the rich history and diverse culture of Quebec and Canada at this top-notch museum.
- Take a leisurely walk along the Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin): Admire the stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River and the picturesque surroundings from this beautiful boardwalk.
- Visit the Citadelle de Québec: Explore this historic fortress, which is still an active military base, and enjoy guided tours, including a ceremonial changing of the guard in the summer.
Visitor’s Guide for Useful Information
Here are a few options for getting to Quebec City:
By car: It takes approximately 2.5 hours to drive from Montreal to Quebec City.
By plane: A flight from New York or Toronto to Quebec City takes around 1.5 hours.
Other: Quebec City offers a variety of activities such as backcountry skiing, swimming, bike tours, bus tours, fishing, hunting, climbing, canyoning, language courses, and more.
Conclusion
Quebec City: a treasure trove of history, architecture, and culture, nestled in the heart of Canada.
This captivating city has something for everyone, from its cobblestone streets and historic landmarks to its vibrant arts scene and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the old town, visiting famous sites like the Chateau Frontenac and the Citadelle, or simply soaking up the city’s unique joie de vivre, Quebec City is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.