Whilst on the East Coast of Canada we had to make a stop in Quebec City. This French-Canadian city is one of the oldest cities in North America with European heritage and history so obviously reflected through the cobbled-stone paths, immense gothic churches and the exquisite architecture.
Spending only 48 hours here at the end of July, we braced the humidity and walked around to some of the most popular sites in the city. And in this blog post we break down all the places and experiences we had in this charming city, here is how you can spend 48 hours travelling in Quebec City.
Quebec City Sign
Starting off our 48 hours in Quebec City, we took the VIA Rail train in from Montreal (also visiting Montreal? Check out our post on the top Things To Do In Montreal). Upon exiting the train, you are instantly greeted by a train station that makes you feel like you’ve travelled back in time. The building is historic and stunning and the first sign of what else there is to see in Quebec City. Across from Quebec City train station is a small park, passing by the water fountain onto the other side of the path you will see the bright blue Quebec Cite sign. This is a great photo opportunity with the fountain and the train station in the background. After all, did you really visit Quebec City if you didn’t take a photo of the sign?
Old Quebec (Vieux Québec)
At the top of every list of things to do in Quebec City will be Old Quebec. As a UNESCO world heritage listed site, Old Quebec’s historic significance and well kept buildings makes this the heart of the city. Conveniently located a short walk from Quebec City train station, it is a great next stop. Be warned Old Quebec has a lower town and upper town separated by some sloped and high inclined roads. Take your time as you walk, there is a lot to see even along the backstreets, the cobblestones and coloured buildings and churches are expansive and so different to big city living.
Château Frontenac
Starting at the top of Old Quebec City is Chateau Frontenac. This is a french castle inspired hotel built in 1893 and is one of the most photographed hotels in the world and for good reason. The structure is grand and truly held the test of time, the steeply pitched roofs really makes this one of the most recognizable locations. If you are lucky enough to spend a night here, you will be able to enjoy a piece of history wrapped with some modern features. We were not so lucky, but did wonder through the hotel lobby to see what was on offer. There are shops and restaurants and bar throughout Chateau Frontenac. Once you are done exploring the inside, the outside is just as stunning as Chateau Frontenac provides great views of the St Lawrence River. We found the shaded areas to provide a great view but also provide some reprieve from the hot weather.
Plains of Abraham
If you follow the boardwalk towards the set of stairs, you will be greeted with another spot that is a must see in Quebec City. The Plains of Abraham is a vast green field where the pivotal battle between French and British in 1759 occurred, securing British control over the city. There are museums for the history buffs to visit and learn more about the city that we now see today. We opted to walk around the expansive grounds with lush greenery to admire the land but also enjoy the nature and quietness that is quite different from the many tourists around the Chateau Frontenac. The paths here are also popular among locals for a run if that is your thing.
Quartier Petit Champlain
After exploring the upper town of Old Quebec, the lower town has just as much to offer. We started our adventures of the lower town through breakneck staircase, this is the oldest staircase in Quebec City and has now become iconic as the stairs that overlooks Rue du Petit Champlain. Once on Rue du Petit Champlain, you will pass by many artisan boutique shops and restaurants all with their own unique charm. If you have started in the lower town and looking for a fun way to get the height and see over the port, The Funicular will set you back CAD$5 but provide you a unique experience and a great view.
If you have time to wonder Rue du Petit Champlain, you will find fantastic murals of Old Quebec and what town life would have once been like. These works of art have stood the test of time and is a great insight to the history of the town. Another iconic part of lower town old Quebec is Umbrella Alley – the alley is literally as it sounds, filled with colourful umbrellas and provides contrast to the old brick buildings.
Montmorency Falls
Finally to wrap up your 48 hours in Quebec City, Montmorency Falls is another popular attraction to visit. This waterfall is only a 15 minute drive from Old Quebec and stands higher than Niagara Falls. There are buses for public transit but we opted to take an uber into the park. There is an entrance fee, cheaper for locals from Quebec but a little more if you are from elsewhere and there are also additional charges if you choose to take the Gondola all the way up. We enjoy hiking so decided to take a walk to the foot of the falls and then the 400 steps up viewing this at every vantage point possible. Once at the top there is ample space to picnic or sit and relax, enjoy walking across the swing bridge and watching people and kids zip line across the falls. If you are lucky to have a clear day, you will also have a great view of the surrounding towns.
Quebec City is truly a city with so much French character, with stunning buildings and great food everywhere you turn. I might also argue that it has some of the most picturesque and grand buildings in all of Canada. We really enjoyed the 48 hours we spent in Quebec City and cannot wait to be back, it feels like we had just scratched the surface. If you have other recommendations of things to do in Quebec City, please let us know below.