Attractions in Quebec City
We encourage you to refer to the Quebec City tourism website for a comprehensive overview of activities in the region.
Quebec City in brief:
Quebec City is the site of the earliest known French settlement in North America and is the only fortified city north of Mexico whose ramparts still exist. It is located on the north bank of the St Lawrence River, where it narrows and meets the mouth of the St. Charles River, on the traditional indigenous territory of the Wendake-Nionwentsio people. The city was founded in the early 17th century and served as the capital of New France until it was ceded to Britain in 1763.
Historic Old Quebec, an area of 135 ha sitting both atop (Upper town) and at the foot (Lower town) of Cap Diamant, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. The architecture and narrow streets of Old Quebec have a European feel. Many of the city's most famous restaurants are located in the Old City. There are four main gates built into the ramparts that separate Upper town from the downtown core: the Kent, Prescott, Saint Jean and Saint Louis Gates. More information about the Quebec fortifications can be found here. Some of the most popular places for tourists to visit in the historic district include the Chateau Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace and Place Royale.
Modern Quebec City has a population of 550,000, and the metropolitan area has a population of 800,000. Over 90% of the region's residents list French as their mother tongue. Anglophones and Allophones account for 1.4% and 6.1%, respectively.
Quebec City is the second largest city in the province of Quebec and the provincial capital. The National Assembly is located on Parliament Hill, just outside the gates to the Old City. Guided tours are available.
The economy of the Capitale-Nationale region is concentrated on public administration, commerce, transport and tourism. The largest Canadian French-language military base is also located in the area.
The city is also famous for its cultural and sporting events, including the Winter Carnival, the Quebec Summer Festival and the International PeeWee Hockey Tournament. The region also boasts great outdoor activities throughout the year.
Some suggested sites in historic Old Québec and downtown core:
Some sites outside the city
Recommended restaurants
Here is a non-exhaustive list of some suggested restaurants, by neighbourhood. We encourage you to also refer to the Québec City tourism website.
Louis Hébert (meeting room available)
Le Ciel - revolving restaurant
Vieux-Québec - inside the walls of the Old City :
