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Quebec Mini Guide
Quebec in a Nutshell
The city is capital of the Quebec province in Canada. It is the only city in North America with its original city walls and the old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city sits on a cliff overlooking the St Lawrence Seaway. French is the city’s first language but English speakers can be found in the tourist areas.
How Would I get There?
Jean Lasage International Airport has flights arriving from Canada, the
USA and France. There is no public transport into the city from the airport so you can take a taxi or hire a car – you will be in the city in 20 minutes. From
Montreal and
Toronto you can travel to Quebec using the Via rail service. Intercar and Orleans Express have bus services province wide.
What can I see in the City?
The city is divided into 2 sections the Haute-Ville (upper town) and the Basse-Ville (lower town) and these are easily explored by foot or cycle. These 2 areas are connected by staircases, one of these is appropriately named ‘Escalier casse-cou’ or Break-neck Stairs. Of course you take the easier route using the Funiculaire. In the old town you can see the world famous Chateau Frontenac, probably the most photographed hotel in North America - treat yourself to a Martini there and take a guided tour of the hotel. After this, stroll down the boardwalk and enjoy the views of St Lawrence Seaway at Dufferin Terrace. Visit the Musee National des Beaux Arts de Quebec and see artwork from local and international artists and also visit the old prison there. In Brasse-Ville you will see the Place Royale where the first French settlement was founded – it is now a pretty square with murals.
What Else is There to do in Quebec?
One of the best ways to see the city is to take a 1 hour tour by horse drawn carriage. You can take a ferry to Levis for great views of Quebec or even better take a 3 hour sunset cruise. Visit Choco Musee Erico and discover the history and making of chocolate. In winter time, go cross country skiing on the Plains of Abraham, it’s free and you can enjoy the sights and nature.
Tell me About the Food
Restaurants in the city have menus in French and English, look out for the Table l’Hote, a set meal for a fixed price. Try the traditional meat pie ‘tourtiere quebecoise’ or ‘poutine’ (chips with gravy and cheese curds) at Aux Anciens Canadiens Restaurant, they also serve caribou and buffalo. Cochin Dinque or the Crazy Pig is a very busy restaurant with a changing menu, it can be a little touristy but is good value for money. If you are looking for something a little less hearty, Quebec has a huge café culture, so you will also be able to just have coffee and a light snack.
Does the City Have any Special Events?
The Winter Carnival is held in the first week of February, every year and has over 100 years history. Not only are there parades, a spectacular ice palace is built and an international ice sculpting competition is held.
- The Big Smile Comedy Festival is on now until the 1st July. Over 250 comedians will appear in that period to entertain and amuse you at venues across the city.