Tourist Attractions

Petit Champlain District

This picturesque area with its narrow, vibrant streets is the site of Québec City’s very first settlement, with Place Royale and Église Notre-Dame-des-Victoires at its heart. Year round, pedestrians invade its cobbled streets to browse the unique boutiques and art galleries or refresh themselves in the sidewalk cafés or restaurants. From there, access Dufferin Terrace via the breakneck staircase or funicular—the panoramic elevator inaugurated in 1879 that ascends Cap Diamant at a breathtaking 45 degrees to Old Québec’s fortified Upper Town.

Old Port

The cradle of French North America steeped in 400 years of history, the Old Port district is the perfect marriage of urban vitality and tradition. Its charming streets feature an array of boutiques, art galleries, cafés, and restaurants. Starting at Rue Saint-Paul, curiosity seekers and collectors alike can browse an assortment of antique treasure troves. In addition, the Old Port boasts fine art and gourmet fare, with some of the finest restaurants in town. Whether you long for French cuisine or local specialties, there is something to delight every palate and budget. Bassin Louise and the Québec City marina, Point-à-Carcy promenade, and farmer’s market are also not-to-be-missed Old Port stops!

Nouvo Saint-Roch District

Nestled between the cliff of Upper Town and the St. Charles River, Saint-Roch is the oldest commercial and industrial sector of Québec City. Having fallen into sad disrepair for a number of years, this district is now buzzing with renewal. Destruction of the Saint-Roch mall roof—which covered a good part of Rue Saint-Joseph (the area’s main street)—gave impetus to the district’s dynamic revitalization. Nouvo Saint-Roch—as it is now called—features boutiques with everything from specialty foods, fine teas, gourmet chocolates, fresh home-baked treats, and decorations to sporting goods, clothing, and cosmetics, all in a trendy and upbeat ambiance. What’s more, fusion cuisine is the order of the day in the district’s newest eateries, and Université des Arts’ presence has brought renewed cultural and artistic flair to Saint-Roch—thus contributing to the former neglected area’s rise to trendy destination.

Fortifications of Québec

The fortifications tell the tale of the military history of Québec City, the only city in North America to have maintained its original fortifications. This imposing structure extends for 4.6 km, allowing access to the city via the Saint-Louis, Kent, Saint-Jean, and Prescott Gates. A footpath adorned with interpretive panels winds its way along the wall, enabling visitors to trace the history of the fortification projects and defensive strategies of their builders.

The Parliament Building

This impressive building of the Second Empire architectural style is Québec City’s foremost national historic site. The prestigious political seat of the National Assembly of Québec, the Parliament Building boasts an upscale restaurant that is open weekdays for lunch.

In front of the Parliament Building is the impressive Fontaine de Tourny. This monumental work won the gold medal at the 1855 World’s Fair in Paris. Having spent most of its life in Bordeaux, France, the fountain was given to the City of Québec by the Simons family in honor of the city’s 400^th anniversary.

Plains of Abraham

Named in honor of Abraham Martin, the plains witnessed the historic and decisive battle of 1759 between France and England. Reconverted into an urban park by architect Frederick G. Todd, the Plains boasts 108 hectares of woodlands and gardens, combining history with outdoor fun and games. In winter or summer, sport enthusiasts can enjoy numerous activities. During the summer months, the Plains play host to a number of concerts and festivals. Also onsite is the Musée national des beaux-arts at the western end of the park. The museum is prized for its outstanding Québec, Inuit, and international art.