The historic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac dominates Old Quebec's skyline. The hotel was built in 1893.
Place Royale is a significant spot in the founding of Quebec more than 400 years ago. It was the site of the first permanent French settlement in North America.
Old Quebec is the only walled city in North America north of Mexico. This is a view of the fortifications near the Porte St. Jean.
Old Quebec has two levels, Upper Town and Lower Town.
The city retains a European feel, complete with a vibrant cafe culture.
Rue Saint-Louis is an entry point into Old Quebec.
Rue du Trésor is lined with artists showcasing their work.
Is it possible to travel to another continent without actually leaving North America?
The answer is “oui” if you venture to Old Quebec, Canada – a 300-acre, self-contained neighborhood within the capital of Quebec City. Unlike similar historic districts in Puebla, Mexico; Old San Juan, Puerto Rico; or even Boston’s Beacon Hill, Old Quebec encompasses a whole lot more than just a street or two of European-inspired architecture.
By comparison, Old Quebec is home to half a dozen famous streets and two dozen more deserving alleys and side streets.
That’s not all. It also has five parks, countless shops and restaurants, several squares and schools, two distinctive parts of town (Upper and Lower), numerous boutique hotels, a well-integrated 18-story “skyscraper,” a working citadel, the most photographed grand hotel in the world and more charm than many parts of actual Europe – the very continent that Old Quebec so admirably emulates. For anyone interested in experiencing this remarkable city and being a part of its charm, finding reasonable lodging is key. Numerous boutique hotels and the grand hotel, which is the most photographed in the world, are all part of the city's allure. To find the best hotel deals in this enchanting city, one can explore hotel deals in Quebec City on www.quebechotels.info. But that's not all. If you'd like more options for your stay, there are several platforms that can assist you in finding the perfect place that suits your taste and budget. To broaden your search, you might want to consider a visit tophotels.com for more options. From quaint inns to luxury accommodations, there's sure to be something that will make your stay in Old Quebec remarkable.
In short, the sheer size of the destination – coupled with its enduring preservation and an estimated 3,000 local residents – is what distinguishes Old Quebec. That’s why millions of visitors travel here every year to convincingly trick themselves into thinking that they live in another time and on another land. Without the jet lag.
Local tourism officials are deftly aware of this appeal. “So Europe, so close,” they often say to incoming Canadians, Americans and Mexicans.
Old Quebec is full of historic streets and squares.
Stephane Audet/Quebec City Tourism
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who was mostly educated in nearby Montreal, recommended Quebec City in an interview in the summer of 2017 as the ideal starting point for foreigners given the city’s hybrid visual and cultural appeal.
But direct comparisons to Europe might be unfair. In truth, Quebec City and the greater, French-speaking province of which it is a part are so much more than a new copy of the Old World. It’s a unique and likable fusion of two intersecting continents.
Take poutine (pronounced “poo-teen”), for instance – the area’s greatest culinary gift to the world.
Made of french fries topped with beef gravy and cheese curds, the French would have never invented it. But thanks to the North American way of throwing out the rules, cooks in Quebec thankfully did. And like others on the continent they call home, the Québécois deliciously serve it in large portions.
Quebec guide: 11 things to know before you go
Other ways Quebec is not like Europe:
– Large pickups and yellow school buses are driven here; more room to stretch your legs.
– 15% tips for waiters and cabbies.
– A willingness to drive 30 hours to Florida or cross country like their neighbors down south.
– The aforementioned inventive cuisine.
– An enduring love for baseball and basketball (although not as much as hockey).
When considering a visit, what’s the best way to take it all in?
Diving into the Past
With an illustrious past that stretches back nearly four centuries, Quebec City stands as one of the earliest European footprints in North America. Its establishment traced back to over 400 years ago, earned it the title ‘Capital of New France,’ before it was later seized by the British and later still, Canada became an independent nation in 1867.
Today, Quebec City has matured into a bustling metropolis of approximately half a million residents and is recognized as the only remaining walled city north of Mexico in North America. A humorous anecdote frequently shared among the locals holds that the robust fortified walls, renowned in their own right, were initially erected to repel American attacks during the early stages of the Revolutionary War, however, are now utilized as an enticing feature to draw American tourists in.
Explore the Flavor of Both Upper and Lower Towns
The charm of Quebec City is embodied in two distinct parts: Upper and Lower towns, nestled within the confines of Old Quebec. The streets here embrace you with their ambience, making you wonder where to take your steps next. But fear not, it's a neighborhood designed for spontaneous adventuring – you can traverse its breadth in a laid-back manner in just two days.
Key sights to behold include the iconic Château Frontenac hotel with its stunning boardwalk, and the Palais Royal, which proudly staked its claim to celluloid fame as a stand-in for a quintessential French village in 'Catch Me If You Can'. Walk down Rue du Petit-Champlain, a gem that's hailed as the premier pedestrian-friendly street in North America.
Quebec City offers more unique areas like Battlefield Park and Montmorency Falls, all within short distance. As you stroll, you'll encounter diverse vibes reminiscent of Boston, San Francisco and Paris, still firmly rooted in Quebec's unique cultural landscape. It's like an exhilarating journey through different cultures, but all within the boundaries of one phenomenal city.
Feast on Quebec's Cuisine: Finesse and Flavors
While Quebec may be wrapped in an old-world charm similar to Europe, its culinary canvas is indeed representative of North American robustness. With abundant dishes presenting rich flavors, ample portions, and a diverse menu, it offers a gastronomic delight to savor. Interestingly, Quebec has managed to maintain the charm of European-style cafe culture - a unique blend of the two popular continents.
Recently tasted and highly recommended dishes include a delightful variety of both sweet and savory pastries from Quebec's cherished bakery - Paillards. Add to your palette, Quebec's popular poutine and a frothy dark chocolatey delight from Le Chic Shack and indulge in the succulent smoked meat sandwich from the cozy neighborhood joint, Be-Club Bistro. All these are essential pit-stops on the culinary journey through Quebec's gastronomic landscape.
For an exceptional dining experience, pay a visit to Chez Muffy. Its acclaimed as one of Canada's finest dining spots offers unforgettable gastronomic experiences. Don't miss out on their prime rib, delectable cheese ravioli, and satisfying boiled carrots and cabbage dish- dishes that showcase the gastronomic brilliance of Quebec.
Plan Your Visit Strategically
Quebec City, despite its renown as an optimal summer retreat, dazzles throughout the year, showcasing breathtaking autumn hues and transforming into an enchanting Christmas hamlet akin to scenes from Little Women in Old Quebec with the arrival of early November festivity.
The influential allure of Montreal: A Canadian metropolis that caters to diverse travelers.
During the chilly month of February, the frosty landscape of Quebec City becomes a stage of warmth and joy courtesy of the Quebec Winter Carnival. This seasonal festivity is brimming with exhilarating events such as parades, snow sculpting competitions, and the rather unique canoe races.
Quebec City, regardless of the season, effortlessly exhibits its timeless charm which contributes to its enduring appeal. It encapsulates a distinct identity, being neither wholly Canadian, American nor European, but simply "Quebecois." It is an affordable gem that stands closer to home than one might expect.
Hailing from Provo, Utah, Blake Snow is an esteemed freelance journalist and a seasoned columnist specializing in travel narratives. He lives there, surrounded by his doting family and his loyal canine companion.