Ten things to do in Quebec City
Quebec City is a national treasure that feels much more European than Canadian. Its stone buildings and cobblestone streets are charming. The city is incredibly walkable and it’s extremely safe. While there are fun activities for the whole family, it can be quite a romantic destination for a couples getaway. Moments from the downtown core, there are opportunities to explore an impressive waterfall, or escape to a nearby island to taste freshly grown produce and homemade preserves. Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; it’s the only walled city north of Mexico. Discover the well-preserved history and the natural beauty of a place that is lively throughout all of the seasons. Travel blogger Lauren from Justin Plus Lauren cooks up ten things to do in Quebec City.
1 Explore Old Quebec
Quebec City is entirely walkable, and I highly recommend that you explore it by walking around. Old Quebec is divided into two areas: Upper Town and Lower Town. One is above the escarpment and one is below it. Down in Lower Town, you’ll find some of the oldest sites in the city. Be sure to watch your step as you walk down the Breakneck Stairs, the oldest stairway in Quebec City, built in 1635. Quartier Petit-Champlain is one of the most delightful neighbourhoods, with its rows of shops featuring goods made by local artisans. Place Royale, a central square with Notre-Dame-des-Victoires in the middle, is not to be missed. Take a ride on the funicular to Upper Town, where you’ll be greeted by the most photographed hotel in the world, Chateau Frontenac. There are so many wonderful spots to stumble upon, such as the Artist’s Alley, outdoor art exhibits during the summer, and the German Christmas Market in December.
2 Walk along the fortifications of Quebec
It’s possible to climb to the top of the fortified walls and walk along them. I highly recommend that you walk along the walls to the Citadel, where you’ll find ceremonial guards and even a museum. The Citadel is still used as an army base today, and it’s ideal for history and war buffs. Throughout the summer months at 10:00am, there is a traditional changing of the guards ceremony.
3 Learn about history
Quebec City is filled with tons of historical sites with great significance, as well as several prestigious museums. If you love churches, be sure to check out Notre Dame de Quebec Cathedral-Basilica and Notre-Dame-des-Victoires. If you love museums, there are many to choose from: Musee de la Civilisation (Civilization Museum), Musee National des Beaux-Arts (fine art museum), Morrin Center (a tour of the former prison and current library), and the Monastère des Augustines (museum at the Monastery). Also, don’t miss visiting the Parliament Building for its magnificent architecture – plus, you can go on a tour inside, too.
4 Take the ferry to Levis
Be sure to take the ferry to the island of Levis for spectacular views of the city. When I visited, I didn’t even bother getting off the boat! At just over $3 per person for a fare, it’s one of the most inexpensive attractions in Quebec and a great way to unwind. Bring your camera to capture the photogenic scenery all around.
5 Montmorency Falls
Just a short drive from Quebec City, you’ll be wowed by the breathtaking Montmorency Falls. It’s a brilliant cascading waterfall with multiple viewpoints at the bottom and the top. Take a cable car ride from the top to the bottom. At the bottom, feel the mist on your face and listen to the powerful, rushing water as it plunges endlessly. At the top, walk across a suspension bridge that extends across the entire waterfall. For those who are feeling adventurous, you can zip line across the waterfall, and you can even climb the cliffs using the via ferrata routes. Montmorency Falls is actually even higher than Niagara Falls!
6 Discover Ile d’Orleans
Ile d’Orleans is an island across from Montmorency Falls. It’s thought to be the “Cornucopia of Quebec” as most of the fresh produce comes from this island. Rural traditions reign supreme, and you’ll be able to taste all of the fresh fruits, homemade jams, and local wines. I highly recommend taking half a day to drive around the island (or ride your bike), stopping at the stunning viewpoints and tasting all of the delicious food.
7 Bicycle ride along the river
Rent a bike (or some hotels have them available to borrow) and take a ride along the paved path beside the St. Lawrence River. I really enjoyed going for a bike ride in Lower Town and Old Port. You can also make a pit stop at the Marché du Vieux-Port, a local farmer’s market that’s open year round.
8 Take a stroll on the boardwalk
At Chateau Frontenac, take a walk down the boardwalk of Dufferin Terrace while admiring the views of Lower Town. If you continue your walk, you’ll reach the Governor’s Promenade, a popular place for walking and jogging. There are many stairs here, so you’ll definitely get a workout. At the end of the promenade, you’ll arrive at the Plains of Abraham. This is a great spot to have a picnic under a tree or relax.
9 Embrace winter
Quebec City isn’t only a summer destination. Winter is fully embraced here with many activities and festivities. The popular Winter Carnival takes place at the end of January. You can stay overnight in an Ice Hotel – definitely something to check off that bucket list! There are outdoor skating rinks, a toboggan track along Dufferin Terrace, and a winter playground at Village Vacances Valcartier. Red Bull Crushed Ice, an extreme skating sport, also happens during the winter. Quebec City can be visited multiple times throughout all of the seasons for entirely different experiences.
10 Nightlife at Grand Allee
Grand Allee is a street in Upper Town that’s known for its nightlife. There are many night clubs, bars, cafes, patios, and restaurants along this stretch for the perfect evening out. With brightly-coloured lights shining on historic buildings, it’s the best place for a magical, memorable night on the town.
Bio:
Lauren is one half of Justin Plus Lauren, a travel blog that she writes with her boyfriend, Justin. She’s a Canadian part-time traveller who is slowly travelling all over the world. Lauren is passionate about veganism and seeks plant-based meals wherever she goes.
