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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 animated cafes 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".

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Do & See

Quebec City is so picturesque, you might at some point forget it is 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, cafes and restaurants are adorable, the streets and monuments will remind you of the historical importance of Quebec.

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Dining

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.

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Cafés

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.

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Bars & Nightlife

Whether you are in for a crazy night of partying, or would much prefer listening to live music (or singing yourself) with a good ale in hand, there are enough options in Quebec, despite the city being smaller than its counterparts.
Stroll over to rue Saint-Jean for a relaxed pace and atmosphere where everyone comes together to sit at the local bars and have a quiet drink. Expect to find a highly cultural environment with influences and people from all over the world. There are options for every musical preference, from opera to dance and rock. One of your best options might be to go to one of the many festivals that take place each year, but be sure to check the dates beforehand.

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Shopping

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. Visit the Marche du Vieux-Port de Quebec, which is a large market with all kinds of natural products, from fruit to vegetable, or step into Les Galeries de la Capital, one of the biggest malls that Quebec has to offer - big enough to include a roller coaster! Art galleries, traditional glass work, vintage toy stores, crafts and design are also ubiquitous.

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Tourist Information