Guide to Quebec City

Canada.

THE COUNTRY THAT CONJURES UP THE SCENT OF MAPLE SYRUP, VISIONS OF MOOSE, AND JUSTIN TRUDEAU.

At least that’s what came to my mind whenever I thought of Canada. But that was before going to Quebec City for the first time three years ago.

It’s safe to say I fell in love instantly, being a Francophile for as long as I can remember. I had the opportunity to visit again this past summer and learned a few things along the way. Traveling leaves you with so many memories, as well as the burden to share them. It’s my hope to give others another location to add to their list of places to see and maybe this will give them a little more preparedness before visiting.

WHERE TO STAY

Typically people make plans to stop at a hotel outside the city, like my family did our first trip. The second time around, we stayed in Vieux-Quebec (Old Quebec). It saved money and made it easier to explore. We booked an Airbnb in advance and were only a minute’s walk from Port St. Louis. Being able to walk outside and see Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac or a horse-drawn carriage pass was delightful. True to the Canadian trope, our host was kind. The official languages are English ​and​French in Quebec, so there can be a language barrier. Be patient and remember you’re a guest.

WHAT TO SEE

My personal favorite part of the city is Vieux-Quebec. Being walking friendly and a time capsule of charm and history, it’s the complete package. Port St. Louis and Port St. Jean are the two entrances. The Ramparts are the last remaining fortified walls in North America, north of Mexico.

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is one of the most recognizable buildings in Canada and is a must-see. It’s a popular destination and walking around the lobby to enjoy the architecture isn’t unusual. The hotel included a small museum of sorts with the history of the hotel in display cases.

The surrounding area is bustling, which makes it a good option if you need to see a lot within a small time frame. Terrasse Dufferin, historical monuments, coffee shops, and street performers are in front of the Chateau. ​Lieu Historique National des Forts-et-Châteaux-Saint-Louis​is located directly underneath the boardwalk. The museum does charge a small fee, but it’s worth it to see the remains of the former Governor’s home.

The Saint Lawrence River is below and has plenty of benches to relax on and take in your surroundings. A little further uphill will lead you to...

RUE DE TRESOR ​Informally known as Artist Alley, it’s a delightful and rather small marketplace consisting of paintings and prints. If you don’t buy anything, it’s still enjoyable to see the city through the eyes of those who love it. Art does make for a great souvenir though. They tend to capture the memories of your traveling so much better than a tee shirt with a moose on it or an overpriced shot glass.

PARLIAMENT BUILDING If you’re a history buff in the slightest, the Parliament building is worth your while. They offer free tours in English and French. It’s a great chance to learn how another country’s government works and they explain each province’s responsibilities.

COMPTOIR EMMAUS My family and I are huge fans of thrift stores. Planning the trip in advance, we knew we had to check what another country had to offer. Comptoir Emmaus was far from the Old City, but the walk took us to areas we wouldn’t have seen otherwise. The thrift store itself had good prices and four stories of merchandise, including a vintage clothing section. One thing they don’t include online is that they do not have A/C in the old building. We went in mid-June, so we cut our trip short there, but if you’re in the area, hit it up.

PETIT CHAMPLAIN Petit Champlain is supposedly the oldest commercial district in North America. The aptly named Breakneck Stairs (built in 1635) descend into the busy little neighborhood that provides plenty of shopping, galleries, restaurants, and the Notre-Damedes-Victoires Church. I consider Petit Champlain the heart of the old city, making it a great place to take photos as well.

MARKET OLD PORT OF QUEBEC

Located on the river, the outdoor market provides a local feel and plenty of wares. Sellers offer fish, cheeses, potted plants, imported foods, baked goods, and art.

We found a corner booth that provided cards, prints, and posters for a considerable discount. My father found a beautiful poster for himself, while I picked two small prints featuring the streets we frequented that week. Every time I look at them, it vividly brings me back to my time in Quebec City.

NOW, go chase that feeling that pushes you to see the world and all it has to offer. Roam the ancient cobblestone streets, explore the nooks and crannies of old hotels. Grab a bottle of rosé, pick up some cheese and bread from the outdoor market, and have a sunset picnic overlooking the city. Talk to strangers, stroll through parks and museums. Try a new food. Pet as many dogs as you can. Never turn down the opportunity to wander.

go chase that feeling that pushes you to see the world and all it has to offer. Roam the ancient cobblestone streets, explore the nooks and crannies of old hotels. Grab a bottle of rose, pick up some cheese and bread from the outdoor market, and have a sunset picnic overlooking the city. Talk to strangers, stroll through parks and museums. Try a new food. Pet as many dogs as you can. Never turn down the opportunity to wander.