If you are in Canada and want to experience European-inspired historic and vibrant cities, don’t forget to visit Quebec City. Here is what you need to know!
Reasons to Visit Quebec City
Many people visit Paris to enjoy the picture-perfect views of the Eiffel Tower. However, Quebec City, also known as North American Paris, has its own iconic buildings and landmarks, such as Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
Quebec is the reflection of French culture in North America and boasts picturesque scenery, delectable food, friendly people, shopping malls, architecture, and much more. Here are the top five reasons to visit Quebec City. Read on!
1. Parliament Hill
For more than a century, the Quebec Parliament Building has stood prominently on a hill above the City. While it is a place of political debate and decision-making, it has also become a popular cultural destination.
Inspired by the Louvre in Paris, the building is a beautiful piece of architecture, especially when lit up at night. The building’s grounds are adorned with 26 bronze statues commemorating important figures in the state’s history, and the beautiful Fontaine de Tourney in front of the Congress as an extravagant centerpiece.
The park and its surrounding gardens offer an “ecotourism” or vacation in the middle of the City. Its central location means that stores, restaurants, and museums are within walking distance.
2. Jacques Cartier National Park
What outdoor activities do you enjoy the most? Are you biking, skiing, or hiking enthusiast? Or are you more of a kayaking, fishing, or stand-up paddleboarding enthusiast? Whatever you want to do, Jacques Cartier National Park has something for everyone. In addition to adventure activities, you can also explore wildlife.
Nicknamed the “Great Outdoors of Quebec City,” the park has all these activities within its 415 square kilometers. Moreover, pitch a tent, walk 100 kilometers of hiking trails, cross rivers, pass through canyons, climb plateaus, and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer.
3. The Island of Orleans
The Island of Orleans is just a short drive over the bridge from Québec City, but the region offers an entirely different perspective. The Island of Orleans is an island of farmers and food producers. As you move through the countryside, you will discover picturesque sceneries, allowing you to immerse in the natural beauty fully.
For example, at the tip of the island, Sainte-Petronille offers a great view of the Montmorency Falls and even better local wines. Saint-Laurent has many farms and strawberry fields. In Saint-Jean, the residence of a pilot who navigated the St. Lawrence River in the mid-19th century has been preserved.
Moreover, Saint-Francois has a popular vantage point from which you can see the surrounding islands and the way out of St. Lawrence. In Sainte-Famille, there are many apple orchards. Likewise, St. Pierre is the most populous village, closest to the town’s bridge.
4. Old Quebec
Old Quebec has many impressive attractions within its historic area. It is a UNESCO World Heritage treasure and perfect for a day trip. In a few hours, you can see centuries-old architecture and stunning churches and chapels that tell the story of the province’s religious and cultural history.
Even if you are not interested in history, the area has plenty to offer, such as shopping, art, music, and good food. It is a must-visit area in Quebec City if you want to experience the uniqueness of the French-Canadian vibes.
5. Food Scene
Eating in Quebec City is often the highlight of a trip. The cobblestone paths, lanes, and streets of Old Quebec have many restaurants and cafes, with diverse menus and mouthwatering food items. The restaurants range from sophisticated and upscale to relaxed and affordable.
Many restaurants in Quebec City offer menus with a fixed price for an appetizer, main course, and dessert made of freshly sourced and organic ingredients. Local favorites include Savini Resto-Bar, a trendy place with a great patio on Grand Alley.
There are also a couple of restaurants worth checking out: Café du Monde and Les Voutes du Cavour, a restaurant in an 18th-century mansion on Place Royale. So, if you want to eat quality food in this French-inspired City, make sure you visit these traditional restaurants.
Final Words
Quebec is the cradle of French America and a famous city for tourists to relish cobblestone streets, explore mesmerizing heritage, experience European charm, and eat delectable food in the lively and welcoming restaurants. Therefore, we recommend visiting Quebec City if you plan to explore Canada on your next vacation. Until Next Time!
- Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
- Photos from Unsplash & canva.
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