How to make the most of a city break in: Quebec City
With limited vacation time, an abundance of natural beauty, as well as some of the world’s most unique cities, right on our doorstep, it’s no surprise that, according to Expedia, 77% of Canadian vacationers decided to holiday in the homeland. With no borders to cross, and only travel insurance to worry about, travelling to a new province could be the easy, breezy vacation you’ve been looking for.
If you’re hoping for a short stay jam-packed with things to do then look no further. We’ve put together a ten-part series guiding you on how to make the most of your weekend break in some of Canada’s coolest metropolises.
For our final instalment of the series, we look at one of Canada’s most historic cities: Quebec City
Quebec, Canada’s largest province, and its capital, Quebec city, are sat on the east coast and is an area defined by its rich history. Doused with European influence, this French-speaking city is surrounded by lush countryside, and there is breathtaking architecture to be found at every turn.
Old Quebec
Unsurprisingly, Old Quebec is the oldest surviving part of the city and can be likened to walking through a museum. Take a slow stroll along the cobbled streets and picture how the city must have functioned more than 400 years ago. Enter via the Porte Saint-Louis gate and watch your step as you make your way along the narrow, sloping paths that haven’t changed much since their original installation.
Some key sites that you must see include the Notre-Dame-de-Québec Basilica-Cathedral, the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, the Jesuits Chapel, and St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, spanning both the heavy religious and military influences of the area.
Old Quebec is also home to a delectable range of excellent eateries and shopping on two of its main streets-rue Saint-Jean and rue Saint-Louis
Parliament Hill
As the capital city of its province, Quebec is also home to The Parliament building, which was built between 1877 and 1886, it’s architects taking ins=fluence from the Louvre Palace in Paris. The Fontaine de Tourny, which sits just outside of the building, was initially installed in Bordeaux, France in 1857 but was removed in 1960 and gifted to the City of Quebec for its 400th anniversary.
Head to the Observatoire de la Capitale, where you will be blown away by breathtaking panoramic views of the area. Or, if you’re into excellent artwork, check out the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, which is home to some of the province’s most exceptional artwork, as well as a selection of pieces from further afield.
Fairmont le Chateau Frontenac hotel
Stood outside of this luxury hotel you might feel like you’re living in a scene from a Disney movie. Built in the late 19th century, Fairmont le Chateau Frontenac hotel is one of the cities most loved sites and can be seen from various parts of the city. In fact, it is considered as a national historic site. Should you get the chance, take a stroll inside and check out the beautiful attention to detail around every corner. The hotel has welcomed iconic guests including Alfred Hitchcock, so you never know who you might rub shoulders with. However, if you can’t quite afford a stay here, it’s still worth heading to for the view it offers of the St. Lawrence River and Old Quebec.
Head to a park
Quebec is not a densely urban area, so nature is always within reach. There are plenty of shady spots surrounded by trees, grassy patches, and, of course, a vast array of parks to choose from. Whether you want to bask in the sun on a warm afternoon, enjoy a picnic with friends, or just relax and take a breather from sightseeing, there are plenty of sports to do so.
Plaines d’Abraham is a part dense with flowers and grassy plains that amass its valleys. The park is also home to cultural exhibitions including the Winter Carnival and Summer Music Festival. Closer to the river is the Promenade Samuel-de-Champlain, a gift from the city to its citizens for its 400th anniversary back in 2008. This waterside linear park has a bicycle lane, pedestrian path, soccer field, and children's playground, all with a scenic backdrop. Or, just outside of the downtown core is Parc du Bois-de-Coulonge, which is home to a wide selection of plants and animals- all of which you can learn about at its interpretation centre. In the summer months, the park also has a tearoom, which serves up gourmet sandwiches, salads, and pastries to hungry guests.
Marché du Vieux-Port
Quebec City’s Old Port Market offers some of finest locally sourced delicacies, including cheese, deli meat, baked goods, fresh fruit and vegetables, and delicious sweet treats. Situated right by the train station, this indoor market is easy to find and the perfect first stop on your tour of the city.
You can feel good about any purchase you make, as you will be giving back to some of the hardest working tradespeople the area has. Vendors also offer home-crafted goods, including traditional jewellery and unique home decor.
Citadelle of Quebec
Its military history is one of the defining factors of Quebec City, and its story lives on today at the impressive Citadelle of Quebec. Originally a 17th-century French fortification, the Citadel was built by British Royal Engineers and the Royal 22nd Regiment and has been a part of the city’s culture since 1920. Make it on time to catch a changing of the guard ceremony in the ceremony, and really feel history come to life.
Enjoy local delicacies
Thanks to its unique culture, Quebec is home to some of the finest bars and restaurants, and you certainly won’t go hungry or unsatisfied during your stay. There is a little something for every, from the unique Ciel! Bistro Bar-a revolving restaurant that lets you enjoy 360-degree views of the city while you chow down on some fancy food, to Sy Patrick’s Pub, serving up traditional home cooked pub grub to calm a rumbling tummy.
If you head beyond the fortified walls of Old Quebec, you will find a friendly spot nestled in the corner. With brick walls, an open kitchen, and sweet handwritten blackboard menus, this eatery offers up mouthwatering sweet and savoury crepes, as well as home-grown cider.
Of course, it goes without saying that you can not make a trip to Quebec and not enjoy its favourite comfort food-Poutine. The combination of warm fries, cheese curds and gravy is something that brings québécois of every génération together and is not to be missed. Many of the locals swear by Snack Bar Saint-Jean or Chez Aston for authentic poutine, but for the most part, you can find it served up at any diner in the area.
If you want to branch out a little, Snack bar St jean does serve up some unique recipes such as la steak haché et oignons (fries, gravy, cheese curds, chopped steak and onions), Poutine Italienne (fries, homemade Italian sauce, cheese curds) La Cochonne (fries, gravy, baloney, bacon, cooked onions), alongside its traditional offering.
Once your hunger is entirely satisfied, grab a drink at dusk. Le Sacrilège is a relaxed bar, with reasonably priced drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. This unique bar also hosts art exhibitions and live performances on a weekly basis. In the summer months, it's small inner terrace is one of the most buzzing in town.
If you feel like dancing the night away, get down to Maurice nightclub-a landmark for party goers. The club has VIP lounges and a valet service over the weekend if you’re feeling extra fancy. Occupying a converted three-story mansion, the bar hosts plenty of themed nights, including a Disco Fever dance party, Latin and blues nights, and a successful house music night.
Of course, with so much to see and do in this historic city, you want to make the most of your trip by ensuring you and your friends are safe. Protect yourself and your belongings with a travel insurance plan, and enjoy your trip from beginning to end.