It all started in 1535, when Jacques Cartier landed here, and the first trading port was created in what is now Quebec. Since then, the city has become the province's capital and a popular destination for its sights, architecture, and food. Visit the famous Chateau Frontenac, the world's most photographed hotel or one of the many national historic sites, each a sight to behold in its own right. But walking through the Old Port or the Plains of Abraham is, perhaps, the best way to feel and breathe in the historical atmosphere of the city.
Quebec City boasts a charm one could only find in one of the oldest towns in America. Imbued with history and surrounded by the only fortifications north of Mexico, it is truly a place like no other.
Walking along its cobbled streets and narrow pathways, one is surrounded by an Old France feel, a remnant of the past that has made Quebec City what it is today.
The UNESCO-protected old district and lower city are where the heart of the province's capital beats the strongest, with tiny eateries and vibrant cafés just a few steps away from street artists. Take a stroll in the Quartier Petit Champlain for some of the best sights in the center or walk by the St. Lawrence, the river that gave Quebec City the name of "where the river narrows."
Quebec City is so picturesque that you might at some point forget it's a real city. The tiny streets and tiny houses will take you back in time and away from what you would expect of a North American city. However, if the shops, cafés, and restaurants are adorable, the streets and monuments will remind you of the historical importance of Quebec.
Old Quebec
Quartier Petit Champlain
St. Lawrence River
Basse-Ville
Montmorency Falls
The Citadelle of Quebec
Ghost Walks
Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec
Morrin Centre
Canyon Sainte-Anne
Although the culinary scene in Quebec is deeply influenced by its French past, Italian food and Canadian specialties, such as the famous poutine, are ubiquitous. You can also enjoy the best of Canadian multiculturalism at the city's varied restaurants — each area has its own personality and style.
Chez Muffy
Matto
Chez Boulay Bistro Boréal
Conti
Les Frères de la Côte
Le Café du Monde
Apsara
Le Hobbit
Ciccio Café
Café De Paris
Le Chic Shack
Le Monastère des Augustines
Soupe & Cie
Small streets and tiny cafes: Quebec City might as well have invented the concept of coziness. Choices range widely: traditional or Americanized coffee shops, small cafes and bakeries with a Parisian feel, trendier and inventive new places — Quebec has it all. Enjoy sunny terraces in the summer, and during the very cold winter coffee shops can be a lifesaver.
Nektar Caféologue
Maelstrøm Saint-Roch
Cantook Micro Torréfaction
Le Renard et la Chouette
Chez Temporel
Café Krieghoff
Café La Maison Smith
Tim Hortons
Quebec's nightlife is a unique blend of European charm and North American energy, making it an exciting destination for night owls and culture enthusiasts alike. Despite being smaller than its counterparts, there are enough options in Quebec for a memorable night.
Numerous pubs, wine bars, and upscale restaurants can be found within the narrow, cobblestone streets of the Old Town. For those seeking a more vibrant atmosphere, the Saint-Roch district is a hub of activity. Here, you'll find a wide variety of trendy bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. The area is known for its dynamic art scene and is a magnet for young locals and visitors alike.
Quebec also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, some of which continue well into the evening. The Summer Festival (Festival d'été de Québec) and Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec) are notable examples, featuring live music performances, outdoor activities, and spectacular night parades.
La Piazz
Ninkasi Bar & Bistro
Korrigane - Brasserie Artisanale
Pub des Borgia
Pub Galway
Pub St. Patrick
Fou-Bar
Les Voutes
Jack Saloon
Among the many picturesque streets and historical buildings, your shopping experience will be one to remember. Quebec City boasts entire streets dedicated to shopping and has nothing to envy bigger cities in that respect.
Galeries de la Capitale & Mega Park
Épicerie J.A. Moisan
Atelier Les Trois Corbeaux
Benjo
Laurier Québec
La Maison Simons
Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB)
The Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport is located about 7 miles west of the city. Bus route No. 80 offered by Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC) serves the Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport from and to the city center via the Les Saules terminus.
Taxi and car rental companies can also be found at the airport for convenient transport to the city.
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Website: www.aeroportdequebec.com/en
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Public Transport
The Réseau de Transport de la Capitale (RTC) is responsible for public transport in the region. They have buses to all parts of Quebec City. You can buy tickets in drugstores, convenience stores, and pharmacies.
An inter-city bus station, with connections to the provincial long-distance bus network, is adjacent to the train station. The services of Greyhound Canada and Orleans Express, among others.
Rail transport is operated by VIA Rail at the Gare du Palais.
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Website: www.rtcquebec.ca
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Taxi
Taxi Coop Québec
+1 418 525 5191
Taxi Québec Centre-ville
+1 418 558 9334
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Post
Stamps can be bought at post offices (Canada Post), drug stores, or convenience stores. There are post offices in several places around the city, including the one mentioned below:
Canada Post
5 Rue Du Fort, Québec
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 8am–7:30pm, Sat 9:30am–5pm, Sun closed
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Website: www.canadapost-postescanada.ca/cpc/en/home.page
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Pharmacy
In Quebec City, there are several major pharmacy chains. Some of the prominent ones include Jean Coutu, Uniprix, and Pharmaprix.
Pharmaprix
698 Rue Saint-Jean, Québec
+1 418 529 2171
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 8:30am–9pm, Sat & Sun 9am–8pm
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Telephone
Country code: +1
Area code: 418
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Electricity
Canada uses 110-volt electricity, and 60-cycle electric power, the same as the USA. Unless your appliance is dual voltage, you need to use a “converter” or a “transformer”. Power outlets are designed for use with a two-prong and some accept a 3 prong (with ground) plug.
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