things to do in québec city
Québec City, the capital of the Canadian province of Québec, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some things to do in Québec City:
Historic Sites:
- Old Québec (Vieux-Québec): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic neighborhood is filled with cobblestone streets, fortifications, and historic buildings.
- Château Frontenac: A iconic hotel that offers stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River and the city.
- Citadel of Québec: A historic fortification that serves as the official residence of the Governor General of Canada.
- Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral: A beautiful church that dates back to the 17th century.
Museums:
- Musée de la Civilization: A museum that showcases the history and culture of Québec and Canada.
- Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec: A museum that features a collection of Québécois and Canadian art.
- Musée Huron-Wendat: A museum that showcases the history and culture of the Huron-Wendat Nation.
Outdoor Activities:
- Montmorency Falls: A beautiful waterfall located just outside the city.
- Parc de la Bois-de-Coulonge: A park that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River.
- Île d’Orléans: An island located just outside the city that offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and historic sites.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Québec City has several ski resorts, including Mont Sainte-Anne and Le Massif.
Food and Drink:
- Try Poutine: A classic Québécois dish made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
- Visit a Sugar Shack: A traditional Québécois restaurant that serves maple syrup and other local specialties.
- Sample Québécois Cuisine: Try traditional dishes like tourtière (a meat pie), tarte au sucre (a sugar pie), and pea soup.
- Visit a Brewery: Québec City has several craft breweries, including Unibroue and Brasserie Dieu du Ciel!.
Festivals and Events:
- Winter Carnival: A festive event that takes place in February and features ice sculptures, snow slides, and live music.
- Québec City Summer Festival: A music festival that takes place in July and features performances by local and international artists.
- Fête de la Musique: A music festival that takes place in June and features free concerts throughout the city.
- Québec City Film Festival: A film festival that takes place in September and features screenings of local and international films.
Other Activities:
- Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: A romantic way to see the city’s historic sites.
- Visit the Québec City Market: A bustling marketplace that offers local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
- Take a Day Trip: Visit nearby attractions like the Montmorency Falls, the Île d’Orléans, or the town of Baie-Saint-Paul.
- Go Shopping: Québec City has several shopping districts, including the Rue Saint-Jean and the Galeries de la Capitale.