Don't use the directions on Yelp. It's nearby. Where to start to see some of these old school. Lots of busy roads in and out of this old town. Can see the juxtaposition of old and new. Hubby wasn't keen on stopping much to walk, felt rushed to move along. read more

Vieux-Quebec - Old Quebec - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Quebec City, Quebec

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Old Quebec is amazing with such great history, food, views, and. architecture. Quebec is our favorite city we visited. Be sure to check out both the upper part of Old Quebec, the Chateau Frontenac where we stayed but can also tour, Dufferin Terrace, and Lower Town. The Citadel and Parliament are must sees as well as the Plains of Abraham (although I wish we looked around more and saw the museum) and the Museum of Civilization is amazing too read more

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Be sure to make a part of your walking tour of Quebec. Everything about the central neighborhood is worth it. Dreamy with plenty of nice little shops and dining options. Be adventurous, leave without a dinner reservation and have fun just dropping in on a whim! ;) read more

Old Quebec is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a fortified town and the birthplace of French North America. There is Upper Town and Lower Town. To access Lower Town from Upper Town ride the funicular or take the Breakneck Stairs. Upper Town Highlights: Château Frontenac Dufferin Terrace Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec Citadelle de Québec Plains of Abraham Lower Town Highlights: Petit-Champlain Place Royale Notre-Dame-des-Victoires read more

Vieux-Quebec - Old Quebec - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Quebec City, Quebec

EXPLORE OLD QUEBEC BY WALKING IN THE STEPS OF CHIEF INSPECTOR GAMACHE We explored Old Quebec by creating our own walking tour following in the footsteps of Chief Inspector Gamache from the novel, Bury Your Dead, by Louise Penny. Many locations in the novel are in the Haute Ville section of Old Quebec. With many locations near each other and Old Quebec being such a walkable area, it was easy to step into the Chief Inspector's world and visit places we might have overlooked. There is a Bury Your Dead tour given by a group in Old Quebec but we were unable to book the tour during our recent visit to Old Quebec. Hopefully our adventure may inspire you to create your own tour. Bury Your Dead begins at the Lit and His (otherwise known as the Morrin Centre). Admission to the Morrin Centre can only be by a one hour guided tour (fee $18.50 CAD). Included in the tour is the small library where we saw the statue of General Wolfe under which Gamache researched the Battle of Quebec and on the windowsill, as depicted in the novel, we saw the bust of James Douglas, a founder of the Lit and His - as portrayed by Louise Penny, Douglas was a grave robber who also collected mummies and played a key part in the novel's mystery. We visited churches described in the novel including St. Andrew Presbyterian Church (next door to the Lit and His and from where Tom Hancock preached), the Notre Dame Basilica de Quebec (where Gamache discussed Champlain with Pere Sebastian), the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (seen by Gamache on his walk to Chateau Frontenac) and Notre Dame Basilica des Victoires (near Ken Haslam's office in Basse Ville). In the Notre Dame Basilica de Quebec, we were surprised to see a lead coffin on display. Restaurants provided backdrop settings in Bury Your Dead. The Chief Inspector dined in restaurants that currently are in Old Quebec including Cafe Buade, Chez Temperel, Aux Ancienes Canadienes, Paillard Rue St-Jean and Le Petit Coin Latin. The St-Laurent Bar at Le Chateau Frontenac is now Bar 1608. Not sure but Bistro 1640 might be on the site of the Old Homestead. We did not visit J.A. Moisan that recently closed. Other places highlighted in the novel were Le Chateau Frontenac (where Gamache meets with Emile and fellow Champlain Society members), Dufferin Terrace and the toboggan run (where Gamache remembers his early courtship with Reine-Marie) and the funicular to Basse Ville and Place Royale (where Ken Haslam had his office). We saw the Plains of Abraham (where Gamache took Henri for walks) but did not have time to drop by Martello Tower (where Gamache confronts Tom Hancock). As we wandered around Old Quebec, we recognized many of the streets mentioned in the novel including rue Saint-Jean, rue Tresor, rue d'Auteuil, rue Sainte-Ursule, rue Saint-Louis and rue Saint-Stanislas. read more

One of my favorites cities in the world is Quebec City, especially the Old Town (Vieux-Quebec). It's mostly pedestrian, so it's easy to get around and find your way around. It has a strong European charm and a nice compact size. Founded in the 17th century, Québec City was the capital of New France and, after 1760, of the new British colony. The Historic District of Old Québec is an urban area of about 135 hectares. It is made up to two parts: the Upper Town, sitting atop Cap Diamant and defended by fortified ramparts, a citadel, and other defensive works, and the Lower Town, which grew up around Place Royale and the harbor. A well-preserved city, the historic district of Old Quebec t is an outstanding example of a fortified colonial town, and unique north of Mexico. I especially love the lower town, which I find a bit more real, with a bit more mom and pop stores...wheres the upper town has a lot more larger stores catering to the tourist masses. Parking is tough, but you can park outside the walls at several parking garages and then walk inside the fortified city. read more

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It's all been said, we enjoyed early morning strolling from top to bottom via the breakneck stairs, buying small gifts and enjoying a few ciders when bar hopping. Do go early so you can get good pictures without numerous other people in them. read more

I love this city. The people are friendly and the food is great. What's there not to like! That is, with the exception of winter, being from Chicago where the winter seems endless. The winter time is even longer in beautiful Quebec!?! As for the summertime, people grab onto every second of warmth and enjoy it. If you want to visit, then, I suggest that you visit during the summer months. Enjoy the beautiful cafes, bakeries, views of the St. Lawrence channel, ... read more

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It's official......I'm almost in love with Québec! I thought I was in France when I first visited Montréal. But f*ck that! Québec gives you endless French energy everywhere. Québec City is dreamy and totally lovely: cobblestone winding streets shops and delicious restaurants- all tucked away. Then what got me is their architecture: stone exteriors and granite tunnels dating back several centuries and almost taking you back in time. It's so freaking beautiful and romantic- it doesn't seem real. I'm sure anytime you come and visit Québec, is totally beautiful, but I also hear that Summer is Peak Time with bigger crowds. We walked the prime spots- considering the freezing temperatures and snowfall, I just might appreciate even coming in the warm months, where you can freely walk, not worry about dodging slippery hills and instead, even enjoy the birds chirping. Chocolate Truffles. French language. It's no surprise why everyone enjoys coming here. As for their Hot Chocolate, it's not their forte. In three separate occasions- hot chocolate as rich as I thought they would've been- were weak. Though I've had way better Hot Chocolate/Cocoa in Greenwich & White Plains. What also got me, Québec's ultra flair during the Holiday Season. With the exception of a few shops, everybody: restaurants, high end clothing shops even a Tim Morton's, go all out with pine garlands, Christmas ornaments and white lights. Beautiful. Our few days in Québec City were exciting. Now for the Québécois- hmmm...just can't say the same and that's a different story- just felt they are not as friendly or polite as the folks in Montréal. Anyhow, let us move on... Personally, the real allure of it all for me, is right when you pass the border, it's a whole new world. And 3 more hours after Montréal is Quèbec City with enough charm- it almost felt I was under a spell- in my own Fairy Tale. read more

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Its not Europe...but it sure as heck looks and feels just like many of the old European cities I've city. Except closer, cheaper, and kinder! The old 2-3 story buildings and venerable grey stone churches almost take you back in time. Its definitely touristy, but you're probably here because you are a tourist. But the shops, art galleries, and restaurants are mostly unique and independent. I didn't see any corporate chain stores, nor a Hard Rock Cafe or McDonalds. The challenging part is not being sure if a restaurant purely catered to tourists or not. Regardless, spend half a day wandering these charming squares and streets. read more

PLUS as close to Europe as u will get in North America Architecture Food options Easily walkable NEGATIVES boring, 2 days MAX for a visit Horrible shopping options (bad boutiques, etc, pricey) read more

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Went out to explore Old Quebec... what a beautiful little town!! We walked and down the hills which are packed with restaurants and stores .. We stopped by to have BreakFast and We also tried Mc Donald's . Rode in the Funiculaire to the bottom part of Old Quebec. We loved it, next time we'll visit at night time, so we can see all the lights. Please come visit Old Quebec. read more

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It's like walking through Belle's little village. Cobblestone so wear the right shoes ladies! Yes it is touristy but it's worth the trek. Lots of places to eat, snack, and drink. Shops that are upscale full of art and jewelry to shops that have cheesy printed shirts and magnets. Something for everyone just wander up the stairs or down the alley. Chocolate shop, ice cream, maple everything around corners. Cheese, wine, cider, beers and more. I've been here in the fall (Sept) and it's crowded and fun. I'm here as Quebec transitions to "spring" (March). It's wet and snow falls from roof tops. It's quiet and calm. I walked from the farmers market "Old Port" to "Old Town" and ventured around the "Castle" aka Fairmont Hotel taking pictures of where they filmed a Kdrama "Goblin". Lots of Asian tourists here just for the "Red Door" scene. Love coming here! read more

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As a tourist visiting Quebec City, Old Quebec should not be missed! Every time when I visit, I always spent a few hours wandering around the area and took interesting photos. There are also small stores and restaurants which are fun to browse or just grab a coffee and snack. I had been visiting during all seasons and always have a great experience. European vibe without leaving Canada! read more

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Great place to visit (and maybe live). Reminds me of a hybrid of Old Montreal (style of architecture, near river) and Old Kyoto (hills and wide open views). Trust me, these characteristics complement each other very nicely. Surprisingly quiet - even on a summer night. I personally like that. read more

The last crisp, clear day of September.... surreal.....no doubt, due in equal part to both; that special angle of light in Canadian autumn, and the buzzing hoards of tourists and their services! I learned from locals that it's pretty much tourist season all year long here now. A client residing within the old city walls drew me into pretty Quebec yesterday. After the three hour drive, crepes breakfast, and a morning meeting, I ambled through the Old City before the return meander on the south side of the St Lawrence back to Montreal. The Notre-Dame De Quebec Basilica-Cathedral was extraordinary. Gotta love the craftsmanship, gold, so much white reverence, imagination, and passion that goes into Catholicism. (And, all of our old established world religions, minus the 'so much white') POWERFUL magic. Truly, profoundly. Quebec is a bastion of Catholicism. Samuel de Champlain founded the first Catholic colony here in 1608. By 1611 he'd established fur trading on the Island of Montreal. Shortly afterward, that became the Catholic colony centre for missionary zeal. The tragedy of bloody Jesus, and devotion to the Jesus and Mary story is ubiquitous in the Province. Literally, everywhere! In this cathedral it is polished high art; not too overly grim, aesthetically impressive Throughout the city squares and on the river side promenade there are monumental sized statues of Champlain, Cartier, settlers, cardinals, a few cherubs, a striking Huron Chief, and a Salvador Dali Elephant! I breezed past Laval Architecture Campus, and the French Canada Museum then down alongside the cannons that dot the St Lawrence wall of this impressive and charming, over 300 year old, European style fortress city. I look forward to my next visit, further research and exploration now giving some life to those dreary Canadian History lessons of my youth in Manitoba and British Columbia where, though colonialism and catholicism absolutely influenced, the physical monuments are few and far between, and so very far less impressive than the raw, still terrifyingly breathtaking, natural landscapes. read more

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A city like no other A trip to Vieux Quebec is indeed like going back into the past. The city was founded way back in 1608 and is one of the very oldest city in North America. Saint Augustine in Florida was found in 1565 so it has Quebec by a few decades although Cartier did build a fort where Quebec City is now in 1535 and wanted to established a permanent settlement. But ended up leaving after only a short time. Old Quebec is unique and different from any other city. That's obvious after only a very short time here. The whole thing was basically a fort and walls, cannon and all kinds of cool stuff are still present. Vieux Quebec must have more old cannon lying around than any city in the world, the things are everywhere. The whole city is like one big museum, complete with all kinds of plaques, statues and great views of the St Lawrence River. The monstrous and ornate Chateau Frontenac looms over the city like a surreal medieval castle and there are cool and very narrow streets, lot of steps and weird houses everywhere. An amazing city to visit any time of the year. All cities have their own personalities but Quebec City is so unique and cool that it's personality is like an eccentric and bizarre old friend that is always a pleasure to visit. Truly a city like no other. Be sure to see Robert G's review on Vieux Quebec. It's a whole lot more entertaining and thoughtful than mine. read more

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Beautiful city that has kept the French authenticity. Absolutely fell in love with the feel of the place, I felt like I was in Europe. Very lively town with so many places to eat at and scenery to admire. read more

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Quebec is a wonderful walking city . All seasons offer opportunities to enjoy the people and city . This is a magnificent part of the quebec experience. read more

Saw two of my Yelp friends write about Old Quebec. Just wanted to throw in my two cents of information. Old Quebec is beautiful and historic! Strolling around Old Town Quebec makes me feel like I am in Europe. Hard to believe we are still in North America, though. Simply awesome place! read more

This past fall we visited Old Québec for the first time and after our visit, we can't wait to go back. This charming little city is one of the most beautiful and historic looking locations we have been to in North America. After spending two days walking around the city (be prepared for many hills, stairs and cobblestone walkways), we got a taste of the city's charm. The views from around the city were gorgeous and automatically reminded us of our trip to Europe a few years ago. In the end, if you like a charming city, then you have to visit Old Québec. If you don't make a stop here, then you are totally missing out on an amazing city filled with culture and beauty. read more

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Quaint, charming European old world feel, cobble stone streets, exclusive shops and dining. The famous Frontenac views, the most photographed hotel in the world. Fantastic river views. Impressive Cathedrals dating back prior to 1650. The only city in North America with still standing city walls. Feels like being outside of North America. read more

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If you have a need for European ambiance, Canadian or French culture, New World history and great food, Old Town Quebec City is just 3 hours from Montreal. The Algonquians settled this city which lies on the St. Lawrence river and called it "where the river narrows". Founded by Samuel de Champlain in 1608, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. From the city's massive entrance stone gate (St. John's) and fortifications to the quaint shops, and restaurants you'll be transported to another time and place. Take time to explore all the city has to offer and be prepared to do a lot of walking including up and down stairs. Buggy rides are available if you so desire. Points of interest include: Plains of Abraham where the French and English battled for supremacy in 1759, Chateau Frontenac, Englise Notre-Dame, Rue du Tresor, the Parliment building, Palace Royale and the life size statue of Samuel de Champlain. Stop in at one of the many restaurants, I ate at the Aux Anciens Canadien. It was $20 US which included a four coarse meal with wine or beer. I had the wild game mix pie. Extraordinary! Make a weekend of it. read more

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Gotta at least go once. But it probably won't be enough. It's absolutely beautiful. Coming from Montreal, walking through Vieux Québec is like walking through some wierd doppelganger twilight zone parallel universe. The street names are the same but not in the right places lol ... You expect to see buildings and people you recognize but everything is just slightly different, slightly askew. It really is a pretty groovy trip lol. I would say the main thing that really distinguishes Vieux Québec from the Old Port in Montreal is that Vieux Québec has an extremely battle rich history that is extremely interesting. (Whereas Montreal is more of a trade center). I highly recommend taking a handsome cab ride while you're there, we learned so much!! Our guide brought us to the " Only fortified toilet in North America " lmao it was amazing! (photo posted) So much to see, so much to do, will definitely be visiting your lovely city again, thx Québec! read more

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I was delighted to witness a Winter Wonderland upon my visit, as a 24" snowstorm had blanketed everything in storybook fashion. I studied the historical significance of 400+ years as I visited many museums & preserved & renovated areas in an authentic setting. This historic neighborhood (and UNESCO World Heritage site) houses some of the city's most notable attractions ~ too many to list & cover in 1 visit. European charm & French culture promoting "The Joy of Living!" is celebrated here every day. What a happy place! The French Cuisine was unforgettable. I did not meet a Restaurant menu that I wouldn't like to get to know better! I returned to celebrate New Year's Eve in a unique fashion:: A street carnival / free concert / friendly revelers / Scenes I will replay in my memory many times. read more

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Review 850: Vieux-Quebec, or Old Quebec, meaning the historical district of Quebec's Capital Region. I try not to think about reincarnation, because it scares the crap out of me. Hence, I choose not to believe in it. However, when I first went to Vieux-Quebec, it all felt eerily familiar. Could it have been that I had mentally walked into one of its boulangeries on a cobbled street to order some baguettes while taking French as a high school freshman? Or, could it have been that I fell in love with this unique place through reading about it and looking at so many photos long before ever going there? Vieux-Quebec, or Old Quebec in English, is clearly a 5 star destination that will steal your heart and take your breath away. It has C.H.A.R.M. That said, I will elaborate: Star 1 - "C" Character - Vieux-Quebec has an incredible sense of place that is unique in Canada, in North America, and in the entire globe. Its brand of character is all encompassing, from its physicality to the spirit of its citizens, customs, and traditons. If you think it will be like Montreal, it's not. While Montreal's Vieux-Port / Old Port has an abundant amount of character, Vieux-Quebec is bursting at the seams with it. The character of this district is transformed with each season, though summer is probably when people are enjoying a milder climate at its latitude at about the 48th parallel and autumn is when visitors come to see the unbeatable combination of a beautiful city wearing its fall colors. Star 2 - "H" History - Vieux-Quebec the only fortified city in Anglophone/Francophone North America. The old town is defined by its fortified walls with imposing entrance gates. It is of the level of import to have been elected as a "UNESCO World Heritage Site" in 1985, owing to its "special cultural or physical significance." (See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Heritage_Site). Less populous Canada has 17 such places, while the U.S. has 22. See for yourself. Star 3 - "A" Architecture - Chateau Frontenac, overlooking the Fleuve Saint-Laurent (Saint Lawrence River), is the icon of Vieux-Quebec. Even if you don't know its name, it's almost a certainty that most people will instantly recognize it. But it doesn't stop there. The number of amazingly crafted buildings in the historical core of Quebec's capital is mind boggling. A photographer would probably experience sensory overload with all the opportunities to take photographs here. Not only that, as a person looks at the incredible craftsmanship of all these buildings, they probably can't help but wonder if the people making the prints, laying the bricks and stones, and orchestrating the construction centuries ago weren't "seeing stars" themselves. They don't make them like they used to! Star 4 - "R" Re****** (wild card) - RElaxation, REflection, REstoration, REstauration, and REmembrance seem to fit the bill here. A trip to Quebec City is bound to be relaxing. Its touristic core can get crowded and parking may be hard to find, but the routine of what to see and what to do tends to be tranquil. It's also a place to reflect. You can sit on Terrasse Dufferin, walk along its fortified walls, explore its cobblestone streets, and gaze out from any of its vista points and think about the passage of time and how being there feels like one has been sent through a time tunnel. Then, to keep everything in check, constant restoration of the buildings and the infrastructure is both necessary and rewarding. Seeing it with scaffolding might be a let down. Seeing a restored copper roof is anything but. If hungry, the number and quality of restaurants, including bakeries, pubs, and coffeehouses, in which to eat and drink is astounding. After walking up its heart pumping inclines, restauration will be necessary! Lastly, the old city is practically adjacent to the Plaines d'Abraham (Plains of Abraham), the site of the battle between the British and the French which changed the face of Canada and which led to the Quebecois motto of "je me souviens," or "I remember." Star 5 - "M" Majesty - Regardless of the direction from which ones approaches Vieux-Quebec, they will not easily escape being awed by its majesty. It could be spotting the spires of Chatenau Frontenac, seeing la Coline Parlementaire (Parliament Hill), seeing its river port and quai (quay), or seeing the Laurentians in the background. Here, the provincial capital's setting is more compelling than that of the national capital. Canada has an abundance of majestic places. Vieux-Quebec is but one, albeit one that is unique and inimitable. Do I like Vieux-Quebec? Very much so. Do I recommend it as a place to visit if one is able to and interested in going there? Absolutely. read more

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Such a beautiful city that has really kept their French authenticity. While some of the shops are definitely tourist traps, the architecture and history makes up for it. read more

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Beautiful beautiful city! It kinda feels like a tad bit of a tourist spot but it's charm and history overshadow that.

The old city is beautiful. This is just a warning to tourists about parking. I parked in a paid spot overnight. There was snow clearing near by, but our street was done and there were no no-parking signs anywhere near our spot. I took videos of all the surrounding buildings, because I wanted to be sure--no signs anywhere in the videos (I'm from Montreal so I know how snow clearing works). When we woke up, our car was gone. It took a good part of the day to find out where it was and we had to miss a few attractions. The ticket was expensive. When I went to challenge it with my videos, they said I'd have to come back and go to court weeks later (we'd be gone by then). Moral of the story: In winter, do not trust the street signs in the Old city. Avoid parking on the street. read more

I enjoyed myself being a tourist in the old part of Quebec City when something horrible happened. As I walked down the street, a city street washing truck came up to me. He turned on the hose making sure he got me making my cloths filthy. He took off as I chased him down the road. I went to the city hall to complain but they didn't seem to care. read more

It's like a mini-me of France, but much cleaner. I was surprised how small the old town area was.

What A Gem Old Quebec is a must go in the winter. The old city charm, the small streets, the shops the restaurants. Walk around and get lost in the walled city and you'll be sure to fall in love with the rich history and old town feeling. It was a wonderful way to spend NYE weekend. read more