Many tourists often visit Canada, but they miss Quebec. However, if you come here, you will instantly fall in love with it, as the cobblestone streets, patios and European culture cannot be perceived indifferently.
A French colony founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, Quebec City was then known as New France. For more than four hundred years, the city was under French and British rule, creating a fascinating mix of architectural styles.
Some travelers are drawn to Quebec for its history and European charm, while others are drawn to its food and culture. The locals are a community that is very passionate about all things Quebec and want visitors to experience the same feeling, no matter their travel budget. While the city can be expensive, there are plenty of ways to visit on a budget.
What to see and do?
Quebec City has something to see and do for almost any visitor, no matter what time of year you choose. Of course, there are a few things everyone should see and do:
- Explore Vieux Québec (Old Quebec) as it is a fun place to visit on foot. If you are on a budget, there is a free walking tour with Samuel Dubois. This is run by a guide who will take you around the Old Town sharing humorous facts and stories. Samuel is also a local beer connoisseur, so if you are looking for recommendations, he can help you choose! If you have a little extra cash to spend, you can do a historical walking tour with the help of a guidebook.
- Head to the city's fortifications, as Quebec City is one of the oldest fortified settlements in North America. Spend some time at the Citadelle. Tickets are $16 CAD and include entry to the Citadel, a museum tour, and the changing of the guard in the summer.
- Visit the Dufferin Terrace, the oldest boardwalk in the city, which runs along the front of the Fairmont Château Frontenac. In the summer, you can relax on the boardwalk, watch street performers, and buy chocolate ice cream from Au 1884. In the winter, take a seat on the Dufferin Slide, one of the first tourist attractions in the city. Climb to the top of the Pierre-Dugua-de-Mons Terrace for the perfect photo of Château Frontenac and the St. Lawrence River. Ride the funicular to Petit Champlain (one of the oldest shopping streets) and Place Royale (site of the first colony). Rides are $3 CAD each way.
- There are many museums in Quebec City, but this is probably the best way to learn about the history of the city. The entrance fee is $16, but if you are 18-30, it is only $10 (not including special exhibits).
- Trinity Cathedral was the first Anglican church built outside of Britain and houses the silver sacrament given by King George III. Be sure to take a $6 tour led by one of the best English historians in Quebec City.
- The Morrin Centre & Maison de la Littérature are two famous buildings opposite each other that have been converted into libraries and some of the city's most interesting landmarks. The Morrin Centre started out as an army barracks, then a prison, then a college, and now a beautiful Victorian (English) library. La Maison de la Littérature is a French library housed in a converted church that was once English. Both are free to enter.
Come explore beautiful Quebec City, sit on the patio, enjoy culinary delights and sip delicious drinks with the locals after enjoying some historical tours!
