Old Quebec
★ 4.8🇨🇦 Quebec CitySuggested visit 1 dayBest season June to October; December for the Christmas market
World HeritageHistoric siteCity walk
The only walled city north of Mexico, where French stone buildings and a clifftop château feel like Europe.
Overview
Built in the 17th century, Old Quebec is the only city north of Mexico with its walls intact and joined the World Heritage List in 1985. The Château Frontenac dominates the upper town from its cliff, while the Petit-Champlain quarter below is dense with stone houses and narrow lanes, especially atmospheric at Christmas. The walls, the star-shaped citadel and Dufferin Terrace all link on foot.
History
Founded in 1608 by the French explorer Champlain, it passed to Britain after the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759, and the walls and citadel were strengthened by the British in the 19th century.
Highlights
- •The Château Frontenac
- •The Petit-Champlain quarter
- •The walls and star-shaped citadel
- •Dufferin Terrace over the St Lawrence
Practical tips
- •The old town is hilly; winter ice makes it slippery
- •Street performers appear in summer; evenings are liveliest
Practical information
- Best time
- June-October
- Tickets
- The old town is free; the citadel about CAD 20
- Opening hours
- Old town open all day; citadel 10:00-17:00
- Local food
- Poutine, crêpes, maple products
- Getting around
- About three hours by train from Montreal; 30 minutes from the airport to the old town.
- Visa
- A visa or electronic travel authorisation (eTA) is required; apply about a month ahead.
Traveller reviews
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