Québec City’s Walls
The city wall is 2.9 miles long and you can walk on it for most of its length. The cliffs of the St. Lawrence River protected Old Town on the east side. Fortification walls were built on the other sides to provide better protection. From these walls, the colonists could spot enemies approaching from land, as well as from the St. Lawrence River, giving them ample time to prepare a defense. Today, the ramparts remain intact as a testament to the character, history and battles that have taken place since the 17th century. The stones have been meticulously restored by Parks Canada, making these the best‑preserved fortifications in North America.
Terrasse Dufferin (Terrace, Promenade, Boardwalk)
A large boardwalk called the Terrasse Dufferin is nice for strolling and gives a good view of the St. Lawrence river and lower Quebec City. From here you can take a Funicular ride to the lower city. Near the Funicular is a large statue of Samuel De Champlin, the founder of Quebec (Lake Champlin in NY is also named after him.) Summer on the Dufferin terrace is a whirlwind of singers and entertainers busking and strutting their stuff. In summer, under the Terrace, you can visit an authentic archaeological crypt that testifies to important moments in the history of Québec. The area (Forts-et-Châteaux-Saint-Louis) was the residence of the governors from 1620 to 1834.
Hotels
There are many luxury hotels in Québec City Old Town. The Château Frontenac may be the world’s most photographed hotel and was built at the end of the 19th century by the railroad. Inside Château Frontenac, you can admire the blend of old world and art deco architectural details, the beautifully hand-carved beams and painted ceilings. The rooms at $900 a night might be a bit pricey for many.
Churches
The continent’s first Catholic parish north of Mexico, Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral. It’s also the site of the first and only Holy Door outside Europe. The neoclassical façade, asymmetrical towers, stained glass, and three Casavant organs are some of the marvels of this genuine architectural masterpiece. Notre-Dame des Victoires is one of the oldest stone churches in North America.
Restaurants
Quebec city abounds in restaurants and the French cuisine lives up to its name. There are also shops for chocolate and ice cream and other delights. Le Champlain and Le Sam restaurants are within the hotel Château Frontenac.
Streets (and art)
One of the oldest shopping streets in North America, the boutiques of Petit-Champlain offer beautiful products created by local artisans. Shop for clothing made by local designers, Indigenous sculptures and handicrafts, jewelry, Québec terroir and more. In summer, the city hosts an astounding variety of world‑class festivals and cultural events. Every weekend in the summer, some of the main neighborhood streets are closed to car traffic, allowing pedestrians to stroll freely and enjoy all the restaurant patios. Many of the streets are cobblestone. The many antique shops on Rue Saint-Paul are living proof of Québec City’s closeness to history. You’ll also find art galleries, cafés, and restaurants that practically force you into the role of flâneur, the idle sophisticate of Europe’s Belle Époque. Start on rue Saint-Paul and continue to rue Saint-Pierre, popping into antique shops for artifacts that are functional, religious and decorative. Small art galleries show the astounding talent of Québec artists.
Citadelle de Québec
The Citadelle is Britain’s biggest fortress in North America and has been home base for the Royal 22e Régiment since 1920. A guided tour explains the history of the Citadelle. In summer, the musicians of the Royal 22e Régiment, dressed in their red uniform and traditional bear fur cap, offer a musical performance with trumpets, French horns, symbols, and drums. A cannon is fired each day at noon and after the tour, you can wander through the museum to admire the artifacts and documents which pay homage to the rich history of this régiment.
Plains of Abraham
A large green space nearby the Old City was the site of the Battle of Quebec (1759) during the French and Indian War. This lead to the loss of hope for France in the new world. Those curious about the battle can visit the Plains of Abraham Museum.