The Parliament Building, house of the National Assembly of Québec, is one of the most impressive buildings in the province's capital city. Located on one of the highest spots of Upper Town, just outside the city walls, the quadrilateral building was constructed between 1877-86 by the French architect Eugène-Étienne Taché. Inspired by the Louvre in Paris, the style of building, Second Empire neo-French Renaissance, is unique in North America. The front of the building also features a pantheon representing the province’s rich history.

Incensed by the Durham Report, in which the British lord said that the French-Canadians could not be civilized because they had no history, Taché included 15 statues depicting important figures in the province's history, to show that they did indeed have a strong past. Figures include Samuel de Champlain, Louis de Buade de Frontenac, James Wolfe, the Marquis de Montcalm, and, at the very top, an indigenous family. As the province's political life continues to grow, so does the number of statues; there are 26 statues featured on the building's facade and more scattered across the grounds.

Since it is still a functioning government office, the only way to see the interior of the building is to take a free guided tour. At 45 minutes long, the tour provides a great opportunity to appreciate the unique architecture of the building, as well as gain insight into Québec's history and political scene. Make sure to have a photo ID with you, however; otherwise you won't pass the security check. In the summer, outdoor tours are also given to discover the surrounding gardens, which highlight the many trees and flowers of Québec and also give an overview of the many sculptures. All tours leave from the visitors center.

Why You Should Visit:
The building is just bursting with history. The architecture, paintings and stained glass windows are simply breathtaking.
The free tour (English/French) is conducted very well, giving one a good understanding of how the government operates.
The restaurant is outstanding and honors Quebec cuisine, with many of the ingredients being grown in the Parliament’s garden. Good prices, too!

Tip:
Note that you must have reservations to eat at the restaurant serving the Provincial Assembly when in session.

It might not look like much on the outside, but on the 31st floor of the building is one of the best views of the city. Perfect for a general overview of Québec, at 221 meters high the "observatoire" is the highest spot in Québec and offers 360-degree views of the city and its environs.

As you look out over the city at various vantage points, you will see important buildings and monuments, pointed out and explained on the easy-to-read plaques that adorn the windows. Sights like the far-off Québec Bridge are easily seen, along with the Laurentian Mountains and the Saint Lawrence River. Alongside points of interest, the Observatoire de la Capitale also gives you information on the province and its history, such as the destruction of Chinatown, which took place to make way for highways to the suburbs. Temporary exhibits, including photographs of local sights, are also on view, or you could check out other interactive informational items like 3D-glasses and modern chairs associated with headphones which introduce important historical figures.

Tip:
When you get in the building the ticket office is on the right-hand side. Then you will take an elevator up to the 31st floor where you will be greeted, and then you can go at your own pace around the top floor. They have it set up that everyone goes in one direction. Restrooms are available and kids are free, which is a big plus.

The Québec Citadel (La Citadelle de Quebec) has stood proudly atop Cape Diamond for nearly two centuries. Originally constructed by the British army as a precaution against a potential attack that never materialized, this fortress reflects the typical design of 17th-century French fortifications. Presently, the Citadel serves as an active military base and serves as the home of the Royal 22nd Regiment, the sole French-speaking regiment within the Canadian army.

In terms of size, the Citadel reigns supreme in North America. Since 1831, it has perched atop Cape Diamond, serving as a last-resort refuge for the garrison of Québec City in the unlikely event of an enemy incursion. Due to its strategic location and sheer magnitude, it has earned the moniker "The Gibraltar of the Americas."

The fort consists of a star-shaped stone wall with four bastions, enveloping several structures such as barracks, hangars, an armory, and a powder magazine, all designed to ensure self-sufficiency during a siege. In 1840, a hospital was even added. Interestingly, two of its buildings, the Cap-aux-Diamants Redoubt (constructed in 1693) and the powder magazine (built in 1750), date back to the French colonial period.

In 1871, peace was established with the United States, leading to the departure of British troops from the city. Subsequently, the artillery school of the Canadian militia took up residence within the Citadel. Lord Dufferin, the Governor General of Canada at the time, chose the Citadel as his official residence, a distinction it continues to hold as the governor general's secondary residence after Rideau Hall in Ottawa.

The Royal 22nd Regiment assumes the role of guardian of this remarkable military heritage. Its members continue to uphold certain traditions, including the summertime changing of the guard, when visitors have the opportunity to witness the regiment parading in full ceremonial dress, featuring a red tunic and distinctive bearskin cap. Inside the Citadel, a museum showcases a collection of weapons, uniforms, and artifacts that bear witness to 300 years of military history in the city.

Why You Should Visit:
To take beautiful panoramic photos of Quebec with a clear view of Château Frontenac and Saint-Laurent river.
The grounds tour is quite informative and the museum has a diversity of memorabilia from various battles and wars.
The World War II exhibit is impressive given it has something most have never seen – since all similar items were destroyed.

Tip:
Be advised that the location is an active military installation and you can't just wander away during the tour or stay behind for extra picture taking after the tour is over.
If possible, go for the Changing of the Guard – you'll see a beautiful procession including the fort's mascot, a goat. The ceremony is held from June 24th to Labour Day, daily at 10am.

One of the most astonishing buildings in Quebec, renowned for its fortress-like architecture and majestic location – sitting on top of the Cape Diamond (Cap Diamant) ridge, the Frontenac Castle (Château Frontenac) proudly holds the title of the "most photographed hotel in the world".

Opened in 1893, this was one of the first grand railway hotels built by the Canadian Pacific Railway in the country, whose 18-floor grandness, augmented by the 54-meter (177-foot) elevation that it sits at, rivaled any European hotel of the day and grabbed the attention of travelers visiting the city.

The Châteauesque style of the building was later replicated in other grand railway hotels erected throughout Canada from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries. American architect Bruce Price drew inspiration from Medieval, Renaissance, and Victorian architecture, incorporating into his design such elements as turrets from Scottish castles and bastion towers of French châteaus. The hotel was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1981 and expanded on three occasions, most recently in 1993.

The building is named after Louis de Buade de Frontenac, who served twice as the Governor General of New France, and it sits on the site previously occupied by Saint Louis Castle (Château Saint-Louis). The remains of this former seat of the French and later of the British governors of the territory now lie in front of the hotel as an archaeological site.

Over the years, the Frontenac Castle has welcomed many guests of honour among whom were the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, Charles Lindbergh, and other dignitaries and celebrities. Alfred Hitchcock used the building as the setting for his 1953 drama "I Confess", however, the most memorable historic events associated with the hotel are the two Quebec Conferences, held in 1943 and 1944, during which U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and Canadian Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King discussed Allied strategy for WWII including plans for the invasion of Normandy.

Tip:
If you ever book a room here, ask for a high floor – the 18th floor offers a particularly stunning city view!
Consider taking a hotel tour, offered every day, as there are some good anecdotes and stories to hear from the hotel's history.

The Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin) is a wide, wooden boardwalk wrapping around the front of the Frontenac Castle (Château Frontenac) towards the Citadel of Quebec. The abundance of gazebos and benches here, not to mention the panoramic views of the Saint Lawrence River, the South Shore, and Orleans Island (Île d'Orléans), makes this place an equally loved leisure spot by both locals and tourists.

Remarkably, the use of wooden planks gives this whole thing an “air of summer”, even in the middle of winter when the famous Terrasse Dufferin Slides, a huge (150-metre/490-foot) toboggan on the south end of the terrace, is open during the Quebec Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec), from late January to mid-February.

The promenade was built in 1838 and was first known as Durham Terrace. It was enlarged in 1854 and then remodeled, in 1878-1879, under the direction of the then Governor General of Canada, Marquess of Dufferin, whose name it now bears. Each of the six gazebos found on this boardwalk has a name – going north-south, it is Frontenac, Lorne, Princess Louise, Victoria, Dufferin, and Plessis.

Underneath the terrace is the archaeological site of Saint Louis Fort and Castle (Château Saint-Louis), featuring the remains of the former seat of power occupied by the French and British governors of the territory from 1620 to 1834 (when it was destroyed by fire) – it is now open for viewing through the three specially built-in peek-a-boo windows.

Also, at the southern end of the terrace is the entry to the Governors' Promenade, a walkway to the Plains of Abraham built into the cliffs below the Citadel. Nearby, a few old guns recall the strategic position of the place once guarded by artillery batteries.

The Old Quebec Funicular, known as the Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec, is a cable railway that connects the Upper and Lower Towns of Old Quebec. It runs between Dufferin Terrace and Petit-Champlain Street.

Besides its speed and convenience, this mode of transportation holds historical significance. The funicular was originally established in 1879. Initially, it operated using a hydraulic system that required the transfer of water between reservoirs before it could function. However, in 1907, it underwent a conversion to electricity.

In 1945, a significant fire damaged the structure, necessitating its reconstruction, which was completed within a year. Subsequent renovations in 1978 and 1998 made both cabins fully autonomous, essentially operating as elevators. From a technical standpoint, it's now more of an inclined lift than a traditional funicular.

Despite its small size, the funicular provides a remarkable way to enjoy the scenery. When traveling uphill, you enter through the Louis Jolliet House and, after obtaining your ticket (which usually takes about 10 minutes on a summer afternoon), ascend 64 meters (210 feet) at a 45-degree angle. During the ride, you can take in stunning views of the Lower Town, the Saint Lawrence River, and the iconic Frontenac Castle (Château Frontenac).

Being here offers a one-of-a-kind experience that you're unlikely to find in many other places around the world. Although the ride itself is short, the enjoyment it provides is long-lasting!

For added enjoyment, there is an on-site gift shop and café.

A charming narrow street at the base of Cape Diamond, known as Rue du Petit-Champlain, serves as the heart of the quaint neighborhood sharing its name. This area pays homage to Samuel de Champlain, the French explorer credited with founding Quebec City back in 1608.

Stretching a mere 814 feet (or 260 meters) in length, Petit-Champlain, translating to "Little Champlain," should not be confused with Champlain Street further to the west, located in the Cap-Blanc district. These two streets were once connected until a rockslide in 1889 separated them.

Towards the southern terminus of Petit-Champlain, you'll come across a sizable trompe-l'œil mural adorning the side of a three-story building at No. 102. This mural vividly recounts the neighborhood's history, encompassing significant events such as the 1759 bombardments, landslides, and numerous fires that have plagued the area over the years.

At the opposite end of the street lies the renowned Breakneck Staircase, aptly named for its steepness, offering a picturesque view of the surrounding area.

Just beyond the staircase awaits the lower entrance to the Old Quebec Funicular, known as the Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec. Operating since 1879, this electric cableway navigates Cape Diamond at a sharp 45-degree angle, covering a total distance of 64 meters (210 feet).

In 2014, Petit-Champlain received recognition as "the most remarkable street" in Canada, a title bestowed upon it through public and professional polls conducted during an event organized by the Canadian Institute of Planners.

Boutique Brin de Folie first opened its doors on May 1st, 1985, right in the heart of the renowned Quartier Petit Champlain in Quebec City. Nestled at the base of the iconic Château Frontenac in this picturesque city, the shop boasts an extensive assortment of unique collectibles and gifts.

Upon stepping inside the boutique, visitors are immediately transported to a captivating realm of enchantment and extravagance. The shelves are adorned with a myriad of items, including a vast collection of Funko Pop figurines, vibrantly colored Tokidoki and Loungefly bags, whimsical wind-up music boxes, an entire wall dedicated to Russian matryoshka dolls, and an expansive array of greeting cards elegantly displayed on a real Ferris wheel. The kaleidoscope of colors, diverse offerings, and exclusive collectibles creates an extraordinary sensory experience.

For more than three decades, proprietor Monique Zimmermann has curated an original boutique, providing patrons with a delightful assortment of gift ideas and distinctive collectibles suitable for anyone seeking a fun and unexpected present or a prized collector's item. The boutique's decor, characterized by a whimsical blend of yellow, green, white, and black, draws inspiration from Madame Zimmermann's imaginative spirit. It beckons visitors to explore its treasure trove and discover the perfect gift for their loved ones.

The Chevalier House (Maison Historique Chevalier) is a prominent example of French urban architecture in New France. This historical structure is composed of three distinct buildings from different time periods.

In the center stands the former residence of shipowner Jean-Baptiste Chevalier, constructed in 1752, which is closely connected to the neighboring mansard-style Frérot House, dating back to either 1683 or 1695. Additionally, the Chesnay House, dating back to 1660 or 1675, completes the trio.

All three houses suffered destruction by fire but were subsequently rebuilt in 1762. Following the British conquest of the region, the entire complex underwent partial renovations and was repurposed for commercial use. Starting in 1807, the property was leased to an innkeeper who named it the London Coffee House, a name that persisted until the early 20th century.

In the 1950s, these buildings narrowly avoided demolition when the government of Quebec acquired them as part of a significant restoration effort in the Royal Square area. Subsequently, in 1965, the complex received recognition as a historic monument and was transformed into a museum.

Set against the backdrop of Frontenac Castle, the Chevalier House offers an excellent photo opportunity for architecture enthusiasts, reflecting a substantial portion of the area's historical legacy. During the Quebec Carnival in February, it frequently hosts traditional music events.

It's not often one can visit an area in North America with a 400-year history. The birthplace of French-Canadian civilization, Place Royale is the original site of Samuel de Champlain's fort that he built on the shores of the Saint Lawrence in the early 1600s. The footprint of that building is marked with black tile on the cobblestones and is particularly noticeable just in front of the stone church on the square – the oldest of its kind in N America, known as Notre-Dame-des-Victoires. At the door to the church is a bronze plaque commemorating said event, though it's unfortunately just inscribed in French.

Place Royale is quite small as it was built in the late 1600s by orders of the French "Sun King", Louis XIV, whose bust visitors can still see. What gives the square its charm, however, are probably the 2-3 story grey fieldstone row houses, all restored to their French colonial appearance with small windows, wide brick chimneys, steep roofs, and firewalls to prevent the spread of fire. Window shutters and doors are painted in cheerful colors (rose, yellow, blue, green), while plentiful window boxes are planted with colorful annual flowers. The ground floors of these homes, once owned by wealthy merchants, have shops offering art, clothing, and souvenirs.

Stop at Place Royale for some attractive photos, briefly visit the church, look at the tiled outline of Champlain's fort, and browse the shops. Not far away is one of the most stunningly beautiful murals in town called Fresque des Québecois, a three-dimensional landscape featuring landmarks and figures of Québec City's history.

Why You Should Visit:
To escape the crowds in a charming part of town. Not only beautiful but equipped with nice shops and restaurants. Feels more like Europe than anything else.

Tip:
La Maison Smith on the square here is a wonderful place to watch people go by with a cup of coffee and croissants. From there you can also easily walk to Petit-Champlain, which is a row of wonderful shops.

The Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of Quebec City (Notre-Dame de Québec) is the oldest church in Canada. It sits on the site of the former chapel of Our Lady of Recovery (Notre Dame de la Recouvrance), which was built by Samuel de Champlain in 1633.

This is also the first church in Canada to be ranked as a minor basilica – by Pope Pius IX, in 1874.

Over the years, the cathedral has been destroyed twice by fires: the first time during the Siege of Quebec, in 1759; and then in 1922, gutted by arson by the members of the Canadian faction of the Ku Klux Klan.

The church was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1989. Inside, you will find a chancel lamp donated by Louis XIV and impressive adornments such as stained glass windows, paintings of the Virgin Mary dating back to the French colonial regime, the old bishop's throne, and a stunning gold-plated baldaquin canopy suspended above the altar.

From 1654 to 1898, some 900 people were buried in the church crypt; among them four governors of New France and twenty bishops of Quebec, including François de Laval, Quebec's first bishop. It is also rumored that Samuel de Champlain himself is buried somewhere nearby; archaeologists have been searching for his grave for decades.

In 2014, when the cathedral celebrated its 350th anniversary, a holy door – a special entrance portal traditionally located within the Papal major basilicas in Rome – was installed here, being the only one of its kind in North America and one of eight across the entire world.

Tip:
See the basilica during the day, but consider the laser light show in the evening. The line to get in is very long, so buy your tickets online and pick them up at the office the night of the performance. Not the cheapest 30 minutes, but well worth it if you want to see the magnificent building shine in a whole new way.
Entry is free for self-guided visits; it is also possible to visit the crypt on a guided tour, for a charge.

The City Hall of Quebec City, known as Hôtel de ville de Québec, serves as the headquarters for the local government. It holds special historical significance, having been designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1984 and also earning a spot on the World Heritage Site list in 1985.

Before the construction of this City Hall, municipal authorities held their meetings at the residence of British Army Major General William Dunn from 1842 to 1896. Prior to that, they convened at various other locations.

The City Hall building is situated on a hill that was previously occupied by the Jesuit College (known as Jesuit Barracks) from the 1730s to 1878. The college was demolished to make way for the new City Hall. The design of the City Hall was the work of architect Georges-Émile Tanguay, and it became the second permanent city hall in the Old City. Its architectural plan stirred considerable debate between the mayor and city councilors at the time. Nevertheless, the construction was completed in 1895, and it was officially inaugurated on September 15, 1896.

The City Hall showcases an eclectic blend of architectural styles typical of the late Victorian period. It incorporates elements of Classical, Medieval, and Châteauesque styles, with some influence from the American Romanesque Revival. This unique exterior design stands out against the more common French and British architectural styles seen in local public buildings.

The building is H-shaped and has varying heights, with towers featuring steeply-pitched roofs at its center and sides. Beneath the beautifully landscaped gardens, which were created in 2014 and include water features and a clock (a gift from the Swiss Canton of Jura, designed and manufactured by Richard Mille), there is an indoor parking facility.

The entire area exudes a captivating ambiance and becomes especially enchanting in the evening.

During the summer, within the historic confines of Old Quebec, adjacent to the Sainte-Trinité Cathedral, there exists a unique marketplace. Here, passionate Quebecois artisans showcase their creations in charming kiosks, resembling surprise packages. These skilled craftsmen work with an array of materials, including wood, metal, glass, fabric, wool, and ceramics, fashioning them into the most original and imaginative forms.

For the past 43 years, a group of approximately fifteen artists and craftsmen has been exhibiting their masterpieces in the courtyard of the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Visitors can expect to find one-of-a-kind pieces such as jewelry, ceramics, leather goods, and wooden creations, all meticulously crafted by hand.

Among the talented artisans, Judith Faber, a ceramic artist from Wendake, specializes in crafting small ceramic items adorned with motifs reminiscent of primitive art from various countries. Her repertoire includes plates, candlesticks, soap dispensers, and more, all meticulously created from semi-porcelain clay fired at high temperatures. Each piece is painstakingly engraved by hand and finished with a transparent enamel coating.

Jacques Rivard and Francine Brunet, hailing from La Tuque, fashion night lights, candleholders, and decorative items using recycled glass and mirrors. Their enterprise goes by the name "Vertige."

The Artisans of the Quebec Cathedral invite you to choose a meticulously crafted gift created with immense passion and dedication by highly skilled artists.

Old Québec is a historically significant neighborhood within Quebec City, encompassing both the Upper Town and Lower Town areas. This locale holds the prestigious designation of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From an administrative perspective, Old Quebec is situated within the Vieux-Québec–Cap-Blanc–colline Parlementaire district, which falls under the jurisdiction of the La Cité-Limoilou borough. In English, it is commonly referred to as "the Old City" or "Québec's Old City."

The majority of the buildings in the Upper Town section of Old Québec originate from the 19th century, with a few dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. This area boasts several commercial streets, such as Saint Jean, Sainte Anne, and De Buade, with numerous hotels, including the renowned Château Frontenac, making it a highly sought-after tourist destination. In the Upper Town, you can find parks like De l'Esplanade, Artillerie, Des Gouverneurs, Montmorency, and the grounds of l’Hotel-de-Ville.

The Lower Town, situated at the base of Cap Diamant, holds historical significance. The construction of the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires commenced in 1687 at this location and was completed in 1723. Lower Town features notable cultural institutions such as the Musée de la civilisation, the Musée naval de Québec, the caserne Dalhousie, and the Théâtre Petit Champlain, which encompass museums, performance venues, theaters, and exhibition spaces.

Strategically positioned, overlooking the west side of Quebec City across the Saint Charles River, Artillery Park (Parc de l'Artillerie) is a former major military site established in the late 17th century. Attesting to its legacy now are the four vastly different buildings through which one can trace the history of the city from the French colonial period to the 1940s. The most striking of the four is the Dauphine Redoubt with massive white supports plunging down the side of a hill.

Built from 1712 to 1748, the redoubt served as army barracks both before and after the British Conquest and eventually became home to the superintendent. Nowadays, during the summer, one can see characters in period costumes bringing the barracks back to life with demonstrations and tours of the property decorated to reflect various periods in the building's evolution.

Here, on display, there is also a fascinating model of Quebec City. Created by military engineer Jean-Baptiste Duberger for strategic planning, between 1795 and 1810, it offers an unparalleled source of information on the layout of the city in the years following the British Conquest.

While walking around the park is an enjoyable activity as such, the on-site museum is charming and well-presented, with lots of artifacts, making it easy to understand and appreciate the history of the area.

Tip:
Consider getting a self-guided audio tour. It takes about two hours to go through the entire complex, and you can pace yourself.