When it comes to Canadian tourism, cities like Toronto, Montreal, and British Columbia often get most of the fanfare. But those aren’t the only places in Canada worth visiting – not even close. Located not far from Montreal is Quebec City, which is the capital of the province of Quebec. It’s also one of the best-kept secrets that not enough travelers and tourists know about. Since it’s time this secret got out, let’s explore some of the fun things visitors can do in Quebec City and why it’s such a hidden gem for tourists.
Historical Significance
Most people don’t know that Quebec City was one of the first places in the New World that European explorers settled. It was first settled in 1608, giving the city a lot of places with rich historical significance. In fact, the Historic District of Old Québec was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. That speaks to the importance of Quebec City as a North American city. It’s also why any tourist with an interest in history should put Quebec City on their list of must-visit cities.
Place Royale
Among your first stops in Quebec City should be Place Royale. This is a historic square in the Lower Town and a must-see while exploring Old Quebec. This iconic location marks the spot where Samuel de Champlain founded Quebec City in 1608.
Strolling through Place Royale feels like stepping back in time with charming cobblestone and old-world architecture. In addition to being a picturesque part of the city, you can also check out the Place Royale, the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, the oldest stone church in North America, which welcomes visitors to see its incredible interior.
Take the Ferry
If you get tired of history or walking, take the ferry from Old Quebec to Lévis on the opposite side of the St. Lawrence River. The ride takes a little more than 10 minutes and provides some of the most spectacular views of Quebec City, with the water providing the perfect vantage point to see the city’s skyline. The Quebec City locals actually use the ferry as a means of getting around town, which is why tickets are relatively cheap. But tourists are also welcomed, although they will need to get off and get back on the ferry if they are just using it to get views of the city.
Experience Nature
Quebec City isn’t just about historical sites and great views from the middle of the St. Lawrence River. It also offers the option of being close to nature, thanks to its stunning natural beauty, tranquil lakes, and winding rivers.
You might have to travel a little outside the city to find beautiful forests, lakes, and mountains, but they are close to Quebec City and worth the trip if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. Specifically, you’ll want to find some time for Jacques-Cartier National Park, a glacial valley that has views that are beyond breathtaking.
More Sources of Fun
Beyond history and nature, there is no shortage of ways to have fun in Quebec City. In the summertime, in particular, you’ll find street performers and artists all over the place. The city is also home to festivals, especially those that revolve around history. You can also venture down the Rue de Petit Champlain to find shops and cafes. Even in the winter, you can get inside and out of the cold by visiting many of the museums, casinos, and theater venues. Of course, given the large selection of online casinos in Quebec, you can just play casino games on a mobile device when you’re relaxing in a cafe or resting up at your hotel after a busy day of exploring the city.
Dine in Style
Last but not least, if you visit Quebec City, you’ll want to eat well. Fortunately, that’s an easy thing to do given the city’s culinary options. As you can probably guess, Québec City’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in French tradition. It’s easy to find hearty stews, savory meat pies, specialty chocolate shops, and exquisite bakeries. One Canadian dish you must try is poutine, which is French fries smothered with cheese curds and hot gravy. Of course, you can find poutine in most places. If you want to eat somewhere special, try Le Clocher Penché for brunch or visit La Traite, which specializes in local ingredients and is located in a historic building that’s been around since 1677.
