Quebec City, established in 1608, boasts ancient buildings, cathedrals, and fortifications spread throughout its vicinity, offering an intriguing past and legacy to explore. Positioned in a picturesque setting, the city overlooks the Saint Lawrence River and showcases remarkable architecture. Explore the top attractions and experiences of Quebec’s offerings today.
The city of Quebec serves as the vibrant core and essence of the province bearing the same name. It takes immense pride in its French-Canadian heritage and language, fiercely safeguarding its identity. Numerous museums, tourist attractions, and a bustling calendar of festivals and cultural events celebrate this rich legacy.
When visiting Canada, one simply cannot overlook Quebec City, the provincial capital of Quebec, as it offers an abundance of captivating activities, as well as a wealth of history, culture, and natural wonders to uncover.
Quebec’s top attractions and experiences
Fortifications of Quebec National Historic Site
The Quebec Fortifications, the sole remaining city walls in North America excluding Mexico, are currently protected as part of a National Historic Site. Constructed in the 17th century, the robust fortifications, gates, and towers played a vital role in defending the colony and withstood numerous sieges by both American and French forces.
Stretching for approximately three miles, the well-preserved walls of Old Quebec have been expanded and maintained over the years. Take in breathtaking vistas of the city and its landmarks while leisurely walking atop these walls. Learn about its fascinating history through informative exhibits strategically placed throughout the area.
Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec
Located in Battlefields Park, the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec is home to one of the largest art collections in Canada. With approximately 40,000 paintings, prints, and sculptures, the museum showcases artworks from artists across the country and beyond, although it primarily focuses on pieces created within the province.
First showcased in 1933, the museum’s vast collection is currently housed in four interconnected structures, connected by a network of underground corridors. Of special interest is the museum’s impressive display of Inuit art, which also includes works by renowned artists such as Jean-Paul Lemieux and Fernand Leduc.
Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre
Situated close to the Saint Lawrence River, the remarkable Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre exhibits impressive architectural beauty. This basilica, named after the patron saint of the province, attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists annually. It has gained a reputation for its alleged ability to provide healing to the sick and disabled.
For centuries, this location served as a significant shrine before its completion in 1946. The Romanesque Revival structure stands out with its two towering spires and a captivating rose window. Its interior is equally remarkable, adorned with stone statues and vibrant frescoes. As you enter, you’ll notice the crutches and canes left behind by those who claim to have been cured.
La Promenade des Gouverneurs
The Governors’ Walk, which stretches for approximately one mile, is a highly popular spot for strolling. The raised wooden pathway commences near both Frontenac Castle and Dufferin Terrace, winding its way past awe-inspiring panoramas and intriguing historical landmarks before reaching Battlefields Park.
Built-in 1958, this splendid promenade clings to the edge of a steep cliff, with staircases traversing its verdant, tree-fringed paths. On one side, you can admire the fortifications of the old citadel, while on the other, there are breathtaking vistas of Lower Quebec and the Saint Lawrence River.
Parliament Building
Situated close to the citadel and Battlefields Park is the grand Parliament Building, perched on a hill just beyond the city boundaries. The provincial government’s headquarters is encircled by splendid gardens and remarkable monuments honoring notable figures from Quebec’s past.
Erected in 1886, the structure boasts a remarkable Second Empire design. Its striking facade features a lofty clock tower adorned with depictions of significant individuals and landmarks from the area. Guided tours provide a wealth of information on the building’s past, as well as the history of the province and its governance, including the opportunity to witness parliamentary proceedings.
Morrin Centre
Situated in the heart of Old Quebec, the Morrin Centre offers an intriguing glimpse into the historical background of the city. Formerly a correctional facility, it now serves as a hub for English literature and academic pursuits. Recognized as a National Historic Site in 1981, this remarkable establishment houses a captivating library adorned with vintage volumes and valuable literary works that adorn the towering bookshelves.
Within the majestic stone structure, guests can embark on guided tours, exploring the lavish corridors as well as the somber prison cells. Furthermore, the venue showcases antique furniture and ancient relics dating back to the year of its construction in 1712.
Old Quebec Funicular
One can experience a delightful journey by riding the Old Quebec Funicular, an extraordinary transportation system that links Lower Town and Upper Town. This charming mode of transport not only spares you from climbing the steep Breakneck Stairs but also offers breathtaking panoramas of the city and the river below as you make your way.
Constructed in the year 1879, this railway ascends and descends the cliffside at a 45-degree angle. Despite the short duration of a few minutes required to reach Upper Town, the funicular’s historic aesthetic and ambiance add immense value to the excursion.
Battlefields Park
Located just a short distance west of the city center lies the vast Battlefields Park, a popular destination for both residents and tourists alike. This park earned its name due to its historical significance as the site of the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759, a pivotal event in the shaping of Canada, where the British emerged victorious over the French.
Strategically positioned along the banks of the Saint Lawrence River, Battlefields Park features a collection of ancient cannons and four Martello towers, remnants of its military past. In addition, visitors can enjoy the picturesque green spaces, picnic areas, and sports fields scattered throughout the park.
Musée de la Civilization
It offers an intriguing overview of Quebec’s towns and cultures and overlooks the Saint Lawrence River. Located near Place Royale, the Musée de la Civilization offers a look into the history and culture of the province. The museum’s numerous galleries hold collections of art and artifacts as well as archaeological discoveries that provide insight into the region’s history.
Since it opened in 1988, the museum has become a favorite of locals and tourists alike thanks to its interactive exhibits and cutting-edge architecture. As well as hosting fascinating sections on the past, present, and future of Indigenous people in the province, the museum frequently presents unique exhibits and cultural activities.
Place Royale
As soon as Samuel de Champlain arrived in 1608, he established his first settlement in Place Royale. Although it may seem like just another lovely square. For its historical significance, beautiful architecture, and welcoming atmosphere, Quebec has long been a hub of activity and trade in the province.
This narrow, cobbled square is lined with a variety of lovely historic buildings that have become cafes and boutiques. Founded in 1723 on the site of what was then a French colony, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church is one of North America’s oldest churches.
La Citadelle
Quebec’s city center is dominated by a massive fortress that the French and British built over a period of many years to defend the city against an American invasion. The star-shaped fort, also known as “La Citadelle” in French, offers beautiful green areas, strong walls, and an excellent on-site museum for you to visit.
Due to its advantageous location, Cap Diamant has been home to multiple forts over the centuries, the most recent of which dates back to 1850. Aside from touring the National Historic Site and learning about its past, visitors can observe the daily changing of the guard ritual.
Montmorency Falls Park
A 15-minute drive northeast of town will take you to Montmorency Falls, one of the region’s most impressive natural wonders. At 275 feet, this waterfall is significantly taller than Niagara Falls, which is in the same scenic park as the well-known attraction.
There are some amazing photographs to be taken at this park, not only because of its white wall of water but also because of its natural beauty. For guests, the area offers great hiking trails, playgrounds, and even zip lines, in addition to a cable car and suspension bridge that provide commanding views of the falls.
Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec
A stately cathedral and basilica, Notre Dame de Québec has been in existence since 1647 and is the oldest church in Canada. There have been numerous fires, destructions, and rebuilds throughout the basilica’s long history, but it always emerges stronger and better.
A huge gray tower atop the current cathedral, located in the heart of Old Quebec, gives off an austere look despite its imposing size. A sparkling treasure hall, vibrant stained glass windows, and ancient religious paintings adorn the interior, telling a completely different story.
Terrasse Dufferin
In the city, one of the most popular spots to hang out is the Terrasse Dufferin, which offers stunning views of Old Quebec and the Saint Lawrence River. Chateau Frontenac, a grand hotel dominating the skyline of the city, has a lengthy boardwalk around it.
In 1879, Lord Dufferin built a wooden plank promenade filled with vintage gazebos, lampposts, and benches bearing his name. A display of old cannons is also available. The terrace provides a charming atmosphere as a result of the frequent presence of street performers and artists.
Old Quebec
With gorgeous buildings and charming streets everywhere you go, Old Quebec’s historic core has a staggering variety of attractions. On either side of the old port and Battlefields Park, Upper Town, and Lower Town are located, and Chateau Frontenac reigns over both.
Its crenelated walls enclose Place Royale, the city’s original settlement, as well as a number of museums and monuments. In addition to the cathedral and citadel, there are many structures dating back hundreds of years in the historic district.
