How to Explore Quebec City in Quebec, Canada
Any time of year is a good time to visit Quebec City, the capital of Quebec Province on the St. Lawrence River. You don't even have to speak French, as most residents speak English, but it's nice to know a few words to experience the French culture as if you were on the other side of the Atlantic. Seasonally decorated shops along cobblestone pedestrian-only promenades beckon visitors to linger awhile, admire the colorful European-style architecture and chat with shop keepers. Walk slowly as you pass restaurants, furriers, art galleries, gourmet shops and bakeries. Note the artful business signs and window displays.
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Instructions
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If you're arriving in Quebec City by cruise ship, as many visitors do, the main downtown district is up a hill near Le Chateau Frontenac, the 1893 grand hotel that overlooks the St. Lawrence River. Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway to bring tourists into the area, the hotel is a "must see" stop as you explore Old Quebec. Tour the elegant lobby and get a breathtaking view of the river before moving on; if you came in one main door, go out the other. You can take the Funicular cable-car ride that connects the Terrasse Dufferin with Lower Town; the walk up can be steep. Nestled around it are quaint little shops side by side that wind down narrow streets or steps with decorative wrought iron railings; some buildings are almost 200 years old (see Resources below).
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Visit a museum, such as the Musée de la Civilisation, one of the main attractions of the city (see Resources below). Others are Old Port of Quebec Interpretation Center, Fortifications of Quebec, L'Ilot des Palais and the Maison Louis Jolliet, which is located in the lower platform of the Funicular. If you are visiting for more than one day, plan your exploration by neighborhoods. The Old Quebec part of the city with its stone walls, bridges, gates and artillery draws the most interest. Take a break periodically on a bench and enjoy street musicians; some sell their own CDs as souvenirs.
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Walk up and down the city streets with local artists displaying their work. You may find something to purchase. You'll pass restaurants with menus posted by the door or written on a chalkboard, cafes with intimate sidewalk tables, candy shops with delectable treats displayed in the windows and art galleries with original works, prints and greeting cards. If the weather is cold, explore the world of furriers, offering Russian and Canadian furs in sheered beaver, mink and fox from vests to coats.
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Stop for a cup of tea, a glass of wine or a meal at one of the old establishments such as the Bistrot a Vin, le Lapir Saute, Gambrinus Restaurant, Fruits and Passion, Bistro Sous Le Fort or La Chasse-Galerie. You'll see displays of merchandise by the door, such as a basket of wine that clearly shows passers-by what the store serves and sells.
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Tips & Warnings
If possible, plan on spending a few days to explore Quebec City.
Obtain maps and visitor guides in advance.
In the winter, it snows and it is cold, but don't let that stop you from venturing out.
Resources
- Photo Credit Photos by Natasha Lawrence
