10 Best Things to Do in Old Quebec City

A 5-star hotel in Old Quebec, Chateau Frontenac is perched on an elevated promontory which boasts breath-taking views of the St. Lawrence River and the city’s historic fortifications. This architectural jewel might date back to the 1890s, but its interiors are très chic – think world-class amenities (including a whirlpool and steam bath) and a light, elegant color palette.

Chateau Frontenac is an epicurean paradise with several ritzy bars and restaurants peppered across its 18 luxurious floors. Reserve a table at Champlain for a wealth of sumptuous dishes like beef consommé with chaga mushrooms, rhubarb confit with honey ganache and sour cherry kombucha with cedar crémeux.

The Ramparts of Quebec City is a mighty historic wall that encompasses the western end of Old Quebec. This impressive fortification dates between 1608 and 1871 and showcase 4 gates, 3 Martello towers, a star-shaped citadel and 4.6 kilometers of ramparts that are kitted with defensive cannons.

The best way to witness this architectural feat is to simply walk beside the ramparts as they wend around the old town. For a spectacular panorama, ascend a stairwell from any of the gates – all of them lead to the top of the wall.

For a scenic stroll along the water, nothing beats a visit to Terrasse Dufferin. This old-school wooden boardwalk is located on the elevated promontory above the sweeping St. Lawrence River and has been attracting throngs of tourists since 1838.

In the summer, enjoy an ice cream in one of the site’s 6 candy-striped gazebos while watching impromptu performances by street entertainers. In winter, a mammoth toboggan run can be found at the south end of the terrace as part of the Quebec Winter Carnival (the biggest cold-weather festival in the Western Hemisphere).

Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral is a Neoclassical church with a rich and storied past, dating back to 1647. This National Historic Site of Canada is the final resting place of some of the country’s most venerated bishops, archbishops, cardinals and governors. More recently, it hosted the current head of the Catholic Church: His Holiness Pope Francis.

Aesthetically impressive, Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica features a duo of asymmetrical towers, stained-glass windows depicting significant religious events, a trio of Casavant organs and a mesmerizing baldachin adorned with dazzling golden angels. Explore this relic in quiet prayer or reserve a place on a guided tour.

Set in Battlefields Park, the Plains of Abraham date back to 1758 when this emerald expanse of lawn was the scene of a pivotal battle in the Seven Years' War. Today, this historic site is one of Quebec city’s favorite outdoor spaces – a place to enjoy a picnic on a sunny day or to meander the paths with the family dog.

This recreational haven spans 103 hectares and is home to the sunken Joan of Arc Garden, a museum commemorating the Battle of the Plains of Abraham and the siege of Quebec, and a collection of significant monuments. The park also hosts large-scale concerts in the height of the summer, as well as skiing and snowshoeing during winter months.

Petit-Champlain is an enchanting, cobbled quarter in Old Quebec City that’s jam-packed with every kind of retailer imaginable. From art galleries and craftspeople to jewelers and fashion boutiques, this 17th century enclave has something for everybody.

When you’re not searching for souvenirs in one of the stores, visit the iconic Breakneck Stairs: the oldest stairway in Quebec (circa 1635). Foodies will enjoy a pit-stop at Le Lapin Sauté – a rustic bistro that’s famous for its pulled rabbit poutine, gooey cheese fondue, poached pear and chocolate crumble and salted honey tart.

Old Quebec Funicular is a popular funicular railroad that links Dufferin Terrace and Quartier Petit-Champlain, as well as Place-Royale and the Old Port. Ascend Old Quebec’s cliffs at a 45-degree angle while taking in spectacular vistas from an eccentric-looking train automobile.

After you’re done photographing the city streets below, stop by a charming neighbourhood haunt for a tasty bite to eat. Bistrot Pape Georges is beloved for its charcuterie and paninis served in rustic surroundings, paired with a Stinger, Sidecar or Margarita.

One of Old Quebec’s grandest architectural accomplishments, Parliament Building is a Second-Empire-style beauty that was erected between 1877 and 1886. Inspired by the Louvre Palace in Paris (and currently home to the province’s National Assembly), visitors are drawn to the building’s glorious fountain (found in the forecourt) and its regally beautiful exterior.

Take a free guided tour to learn about Quebec’s parliamentary institution or book a table at Le Parlementaire (an onsite restaurant that’s famed for its ostentatious dining hall). Here, you can sample a swanky array of dishes including sea buckthorn gazpacho, broiled beef picanha and white chocolate crème brûlée. Ooh-la-la.

La Citadelle de Québec is a working military installation and the second home to both the Canadian monarch and the Governor General of Canada. This star-shaped National Historic Site sits atop Cap Diamant in the city’s old quarters and attracts visitors with its stunning water views and riveting museum.

Forming part of the metropolis’ historic fortifications, the Citadel of Quebec fires its canon every day at noon – a tradition that’s occurred since 1871. On a guided tour, you’ll learn about the site’s operations across a 300-year period while enjoying permanent displays and interactive experiences.

The Museum of Civilization (Musée de la Civilization) is a treasure trove of wonderment that was designed to captivate audiences from all walks of life. On any given day, you’ll find rotating exhibitions and workshops exploring a diverse array of topics including indigenous culture, the natural world, gender identity, human endeavor and digital technology.

The venue’s permanent collections contain an intriguing mix of art, household objects and literature, while popular ‘spectacle’ events draw crowds via installations, performance art and live music offerings. An onsite boutique stocks books, jewelry, toys and décor, while the Espace Saveurs restaurant offers dining in the courtyard.